Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding mower problem, craftsman riding mower, rear fenders

Question
I have and craftsman riding mower. it will start. motor sounds good. I have used my hand on govenor arm so motor will take high rpms. the problem is when I try to let out on clutch. or engage blades the mower will try and die, or should I say, it will die, someone said try safety switches, I just do not think two switches would go out at the same time. cleaned carb. there is a wire plug that attaches to the side of the gas bulb on carb. not familiar with that. took it apart and cleaned, I think it stuck and filled oil with gas

Answer
The wire connecte to the carburetor is the anti-afterfire solenoid.   It's prupose is to prevent backfiring when you turn off the engine.

As for gas in the oil, this is caused by a leaking inlet needle.  If you cleaned the carb you may have fixed that problem but it's cheap insurance to replace the needle.

If the engine tries to die immediately when you release the clutch or engage the blades then most likely it is one of the safety switches or a bad wire...most likely a switch.

Can you send me the mower model number, located on the Sears sticker under the rear fenders or seat, so I can look up your wiring diagram?

Eric