185 John Deere won't crank

[bertsmobile1]

Not sure what you mean. How do I do this

Well the starter has a big red lead on the side so the + goes on it.
Then the = gets put on a good earth close to the starter and the oil drain plug is a really good place.
It should flash when the = wire is connected and then the starter will turn if it is in functional condition.

 

[wgordon57]

Do you know where this goes?

 

[NorthBama]

that wire looking thing may be part of the deck height adjustment. look at the parts list pictures and check. I have seen similar below the black round dial that adjust the deck don't know if the 185 has the black control dial for cutting height.