Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 10 hp B&S Powerbilt engine on snapper rider, snapper rider, ground wires

Question
Fred, Thanks in advance for your help.The above mower has been excellent. Cranks on first pull and has never failed, until now.I began cutting yesterday and it quit as soon as I started.It was one of those feelings that it wasn't going to crank back up and it didn't.I took the plug out and couldn't feel any compression, I pulled the valve cover off and didn't know what to look for ( never messed with OHV)but everything looked ok. Even pulled the head off to make sure piston was going up and down,didn't see a problem there either. Cleaned coil. flywheel and had fire. Put it back together and still won't crank. Sounds popping out of exhaust as well. Please help me.
Thanks, Larry

Answer
IT sounds like a safety switch failed or came out of adjustment.  I would check everyone to be sure they are operating and in good contact with the surface that contacts them.  If not get back to me.  If you do is this recoil or electric start?  Check ground wires too.