Thank you,bertsmobile1. Since the stator isn't totally fried, as in a dead short circuit, I believe you may be correct in that it's running at near maximum output at or near 100% of the time. The battery a couple of years old and may be due for replacement. It's been my experience that mower batteries are a short-lived item, unlike auto batteries and difficult to load-test. Also, I shy away from "experts" on facebook. I'll watch a video to see how something comes apart, but most 'advice' is suspect , to say the least and sometimes downright dangerous!
Addendum:
I'm going to replace the existing old battery before Thursday's mow, to be on the safe side, what with the replaced stator and regulator. No point taking the chance of smoking the replacements!