Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman seat safety switch, switch jumper, briggs stratton


Question
John, My lawn tractor (Craftsman circa '04) with Briggs & Stratton 18.5 HP engine starts and runs great, but shuts down when I release the brake.  I'm sitting on it normally and the blades are not engaged.  Local repair shop says it is likely seat safety switch.  Sound correct? Is there a way to verify this? If so, how difficult to replace?

Answer
Hello Mark:

>>From your Description it Does Sound like the Seat Safety Switch is Bad or has a Bad Connection.
>>The Following is the Instruction File for Checking the Seat Safety Switch.
>>***PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING THE SAFETY SWITCHES IS JUST THAT!!! FOR CHECKING ONLY.***
>>I NEVER Suggest a Mower be Operated with a Safety Device or Switch Disconnected or Bypassed. **Make Sure the Switch has a Good Connection. Now; On Some Model Mowers you can Simply Unplug the Safety Switch from the Harness. On Other Models you have to Place a Jumper Wire Between the Harness Terminals (on the 4 Post Switch Jumper from Same Color Wire to Same Color Wire). The Seat Safety is Showing No One is Seating in the Seat when the Clutch or Blades are Engaged.**  
>>To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action?sid=PSHx20080114x00001 and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists.
>>It is Not Difficult to Replace.
>>Some Snap in and Out and Others are Bolted.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John