Riding mower charging system

[Walt44]

I have a Craftsman riding mower with a 15.5 HP Kohler engine. The amp needle sets a zero while the engine is running but does go negative while starting. How can I check the charging system to be sure the battery is receiving enough charge?

 

[Molerj]

Set your voltmeter to DC & start the tractor. At full throttle, check the reading across the positive & negative posts on the battery. If charging system is working correctly you should read about 14 to 14.5 volts.