Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Safety failure? New Holland riding mower., new holland, safety switch

Question
I have a New Holland riding mower that is about 10 years old that I had a problem with this weekend.  Mower started and ran fine all day, then I shut it off to disconnect the trailer.  When I started it back up, when I took my foot off of the brake it would start to die.  If I depressed the brake again it the motor would take off again.  I shut the mower off to look it over and it would not start again.  When the key was turned, it would 'click' like it was trying to turn over, but nothing would happen.  I haven't had a chance yet to tear into it and was wondering if you had any suggestions.  I was wondering if the brake engaged safety could be malfunctioning?  I wouldn't think it would click if the safety was bad, but seeking some direction on where to start.

Answer
First thing to check is the safety switch under the seat!  This safety ensures that the mower has a rider sitting in the seat of a certain weight to reduce the risk of children starting the mower, or in case a rider falls off during operation.  The seat should simply flip up, and the switch should be visable.  It could be loose, or going bad.  Use a jumper to temporarily bypass it for a test, and replace it if it is defective (a large paperclip will connect the two electrical connectors going to the switch).  Hope this helps!