Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Murray Rider Dies When Put in Gear or Blade Engaged, switch jumper, jumper wire

Question
I've got a 2000 Murray rider (model 42514x8A) w/ a 14.5HP B&S engine that I just bought used off a guy who claimed it worked great. The mower starts right up and runs great in nuetral, but dies as soon as I put it in gear and try and release the clutch/brake, or when I engage the blade. My immediate thought was the seat safety switch, but the previous owner already bypassed it. I checked the PTO and clutch/brake switches with a DMM and they seem to be working fine. I also checked that the wire that runs to the seat safety switch has continuity (as a broken wire could also look like an open switch). The wire is fine. I spent two hours cleaning grounds and connectors today with no luck.
What else could be the problem?

Answer
Hello Joshua:

Recheck the Seat Bypass. The Problem is the Safety System is Reconizing that No One is Seating on the Seat and Grounds the Engine. From your Description, it Sounds like the Connections for the Bypassed Seat Safety are Not Making Good Connection. 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 Jumper from Same Color Wire to Same Color Wire). Check the Clutch/Break and the Blade/PTO Safety Switches First. 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. Go to this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (Murray) and Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John