Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman riding mower, jumper wire, screw driver

Question
QUESTION: Craftsman 10hp/30" 502.255092 serial number 04212285  It starts sometimes and then wont. I thought it was a saftey switch, but now if I use a screw driver on these 2 little bolts, it starts. can you tell me what the problem is? Thanks

ANSWER: Debbie
What little bolts ?? LOl Give me more details

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: the ones on the top of the selenoid?

Answer
Debbie

OK check the key switch first make sure when you try to start the engine, see if there is power to the solenoid. If there is power to one side of the solenoid the the solenoid is bad. If there is no power check all the safety switches 1 at a time. You can by-pass each one for testing purposes only.Get a jumper wire to each safety switch,and connect them together as this is a open circuit and if the seat is not sat on you wont be able to start the engine. Do this to all of the safety switches. You should have a total of 3 or 4 switches, 1 for the seat, 1 for the brake, 1 for the PTO (Blade engagement) and maybe 1 for the neutral switch not in forward or reverse just in the middle.