L3600 GST starting issue

Here's the issue. Working with my tractor and I jumped off, did some work off the tractor (had shut it off). I jumped back on after a few minutes, tried to start but would not turn over ( had my panel lights working fine), I checked my shifter to make sure it was in neutral, checked PTO was in off position, retried and the panel lights flickered while turning key. Tried a few more times and panel lights went dead. Now nothing. I can hear what sounds like a relay clicking. My first guess was starting switch ( it quit being able to shut tractor off for a year now, I just choke it till it shuts down). Fuses we're ok. Got the switch replaced but same issue. Battery showing 12.7 across the leads. I will put battery on charger tonight to check but any clues from someone? The lack of panel lights is puzzling to me.

Thanks for your reply. My bad on reference to being the choke, my old school verbage. Thanks so much for your insights. I will follow through on your suggestions and report back.

Thanks

A quick update. Did not have too much time to look at it but I ran a few checks. The negative side of the battery had continuity from post to frame. The positive side had continuity from post to the starter. It looks like the wiring after those points may be compromised. I will go ahead and replace the negative cable in case it's connection still bad. Pretty rusted anyway. On to the next steps.