1975 Cub cadet 1200
 

If starter is rotating backwards it won't engage the engine won't turn. My starter has 12 volts to it but does nothing not even a click. I bench tester starter and it rotates backwards.

First, welcome to OCC.......... :Welcome2:

The 1200 rolled out of the factory with a Kohler K301AQS-47622 engine. On that engine should be starter:

Kohler: 45-098-06 -------> Repl:45-098-11
Bosch: 14925-27-M030SM or
Bosch: SMH12A201

13 tooth. CCW Rotation. Used on Kohler K241, K301, K321, K341. 10 thru 16 hp Engines. Direct replacement for OEM. Replaces KOHLER 45 098 06 / 45 098 11

You should be able to check & see the "stampings" on the starter to see if you have the right one.

It is suppose to turn when looking at the end of the starter gear ccw.

I was almost positive that they spun CC as Lew mentioned.
I remember reading that many times on the forum.
So to try and help solve your issue, I went out to the 1250 I bought last week and turned the key. Yes as Lew said,
it does turn CC if you are looking at the starter end that has the gear which turns the motor over.
Check your wires, at the battery, ground wire to frame, everything needs to be clean. HTH :beerchug:
EDIT: CC = Counter Clockwise

They spin anti clockwise or ccw.

What he said. :beerchug:

It is all so confusing to younger people as they only learned digital clock reading. :biggrin2:

:bigthink: :ExtremeFunny: :ROTF1: :ROTF2:

Andrew, I mean no harm with all the funnies, but that's Funny :beerchug:

If the battery is connected backwards (i.e. neg to term post, pos to housing) the starter will spin the wrong way and gear will not engage.

And that is no joke, soo true:beerchug: