Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): mower blade clutch, craftsman lawn tractor, clutch lever

Question
Craftsman lawn tractor, model 917.271020.
Occasionally the blade clutch will stick with the blades engaged but I can usually disengage. This time, the mover stalled while blades engaged. The mower will not start and I cannot disengage the blades. I assume because there is some interrupt to prevent starting with the blades engaged even though sitting on the seat. How do I disengage the blades so I can restart? Have sprayed WD-40 and tried repeatedly to jerk the attachment clutch lever to release or disengage.
thanks.

Answer
Sounds to me as if the tension or idler pulley is not releasing. Messing with the handle won't get it done, you have to go on to the top of the deck find the pulley on the pivoting bracket, thats the tension or clutch pulley, thats the one most likely not releasing itself. Work that one back and forth after removing the belt from it and see if the lever will then disengage.....Tom