287707 is a Briggs Model #.
That and the TYPE# properly identify which Briggs 287707.

Likely that has a 3 AMP charging system which is simply a diode.
IF so,the plug from the stator would have a Red and a Black wire.
The mating plug would have a Red & a White wire.
The connector has the diode encased.
Red would be DC output for charging and White would be AC for lights.

This is the diode that gets used for a replacement.
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062591

IF the diode is shorted, you'll get AC to the battery which kills it. That might also fry the stator if it is hard wired to the battery.

Best test is to disconnect the plug and measure the output of the Red lead from the stator. It should be around 14+ VDC since there is no load.
Also measure for AC, which shouldn't be present.
IF Open, you simply don't get any charging.
Tests at HIGH engine speed.

IF the tractor has headlights, simply check to see if they work first. IF they don't, the stator is probably fried.
Engine must be running.

Thanks bill_kapaun! This info will be very helpful in troubleshooting this mower. Your info encouraged me to try and find some youtubes that will show testing methods with a meter and visual matters to look for. I found two that might help but wonder if you know of any recommended youtubes on troubleshooting the matter. The bottom line is, this is not my mower, I have not seen or touched it or serviced one similar. This puts me at a disadvantage in helping a friend at a distance. I have advised him if this is out of his experiences and the problem is not obvious from inspections, he needs to find a Trusted Experienced Tech.

He did send me a number of Pics but not one showing he was troubleshooting the matter. He does have a manual that should be some help. IâÂÂll hope to see âÂÂBingoâÂÂ! When I hear from him next or after sharing your info.

I never search out youtube videos.
Too many are produced by idiots.

I might add that there are a lot of different schematics out there. Using information from the wrong one may cause parts to be fried, turning a simple problem into an expensive fix.
Craftsman tractors have over 200 different schematics, but you'll see a video which purports to "fix Craftsman electrical problems".
What you really need is the MODEL # of the TRACTOR. With that, one MIGHT be able to find the PROPER schematic and use a much more intelligent approach.

My initial advice is for what one would "likely" expect on a low end MTD tractor.

Why not have the actual owner join and post with the pertinent details?
Info doesn't become more accurate when translated by a middleman.

This post was edited by bill_kapaun on Sun, Oct 12, 14 at 20:25

All good words from Bill above. Knowing what your charging system is up to is a great first step. If there had been difficulty cranking even with a battery that is 100%, he may want to adjust the valve lash. In my experience on these, ignition switches and starter solenoids commonly contribute to a parasitic draw.

Thanks! I failed to ask for enough history before trying to help. I believe in periodic maintenance to prevent some failures and inspections catch some needs before they occur. When your records or information shows you have not followed a maintenance schedule or made inspections periodically, IâÂÂm out of the loop of trying to help. I know there are too many possibilities at a point to try and repair equipment that was used without being maintained. The time of trying to repair is too much IMO. Such as:

1. If you tell me you have never tuned the engine by checking/chancing plugs, oil, filters, checking valve lash, and Etc..
2. If you tell me you have never greased and inspected major moving parts and replaced if needed.
3. I also learned this was a 1999 MTD vs an 1984 that had failed. Maintenance has spoiled my equipment.

If you have not done the minimum maintenance or had it done periodically you did not expect the equipment to last. Failure should not be a surprise and strange thinking on major serviceable items.

Does that mean that you've given up Loger? I was going to mention that if your model had a voltage regulator, these fail enough and create a draw. Though, some of these create a draw anyways.

Thanks tomplum! I Have Given Up (Mainly due to the lack of maintenance, Long Distance and having to pry the history). I have too many personal project needs and Widow Neighbors that I try to help that are close and I can see their quick needs, âÂÂWhen I can find the TimeâÂÂ. I enjoy learning New Small Combustion Eng Info but learning, researching and experimenting can get into my needed downtime.

Thanks again for the info that I only relate to due to my past old cars and boatâÂÂs troubleshooting vs a mower.