Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): john deere vtwin 25hp mower, vtwin, safety switch

Question
as soon as i engage the clutch the engine shuts down

Answer
Hi Pete,

Sorry to hear your having problems, When you say "engage the clutch"  please tell me which clutch you mean?  Do you mean when you turn the blade on? (blade clutch) or do you mean when you let the clutch out to drive the tractor?

Does the engine completely quit as if you shut the key off?

If it does, are you sitting on the tractor when you engage the clutch?  I would firstly be taking hard look at the safety switch located in the seat.  

Please get back to me.

Dave