Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman riding mower wont start, jumper wire, safety switches

Question
Hi I have a craftsman 19.5 twin cylinder riding mower that wont start. The first time i tried to start it this year it wouldn't start so i used a battery jumper to jump it off. After starting I drove it out the garage and turned it off. After trying to restart it simply wouldn't start! I tried jumping it but got nothing. after fooling around with it for a few hours i figured it needed a new battery and tried to push it in the garage, thats when i noticed it seemed to be stuck in gear! (and yes it has the hydrostatic transimission) Anyway the next morning i bought a new battery and still nothing! I took off the solinoid thinking that might be the problem but i had it tested and they said it was good, a guy suggested i take the plugs out and try to start it that way.  I did but still nothing so finally i put the plugs in reconnected the battery and was about to give up when suddenly it tried to start, cranked over and everything, however after that 1 time its right back to square 1! also i read in someone else post about a whining noise coming from around the key area, mine does that sometimes.  do you thing by it being stuck in gear that some safety mechanism wont let it start or should i try to replace the starter? thanks for your help!

Answer
Hello Michael:

>>From your Description it Sounds like a Safety Switch has a become Loose, the Mounting Bracket is Slightly Bent or the Safety Switch is Going Bad.
>>The Following is an Instruction File for the Safety Switch System. Any Input is Appreciated.
>>The Color Code of the Wires May be Different than those I Use as a Reference in the Instruction File.
>>**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.
>>**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 (Clutch/Brake) Jumper from Same Color Wire (Example: White to White) First and then Check for Fire, Now Include the Black to Black Wires if No Fire. Check the Clutch/Brake and the Blade/PTO Safety Switches First.  Then Check the Oil Guard Switch (if Applicable). Check the Seat Safety Last. Usually the Seat Safety is Not in the System for Starting the Engine. Just to Ensure Someone is in the Seat when Engaging the Transaxle and/or Blades. Use a Paper Clip or a Short Wire to Make a Jumper.**  
>>Use a Multi-meter and Check the Continuity of the Switch. The Meter should Show when the Contacts are Closed and Open. The Meter will Swing All the Way Over when the Switch Contacts are Closed and Swing Back to the Rest Point when the Switch Contacts are Open.
>>Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine and/or the Unit/Mower Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. The Unit/Mower Model Numbers are Usually Located Under the Seat on a Sticker on the Body of the Mower.
>>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