Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Wheelhorse Ignition Problems, auto parts stores, wireing harness

Question
I have a '73 Wheelhorse Raider 10 8 speed garden tractor with a 10 hp kohler k241 on it. Recently I tried to put a new keyswitch on it and now it doesnt want to keep running. The battery is getting old, so could this be part of my problem? The starter has enough power to turn the engine over, but it will not continue to run. I put a battery charger on the battery and it says "full charge". Would investing in a new battery solve my problem? The engine did manage to run with an old switch i had but i had to start it then turn the key quickly back to off to continue running. Is this because the starter might produce power?

Answer
The starter should not produce power unless you  have an old, really old starter generator setup.  These systems are commonly identified by a V belt running from the starter/generator to the engine flywheel.

You can have the battery load tested at many locations including most auto parts stores.  You can also check the battery by checking the specific gravity using one of those inexpensive glass/bulb testers. Load testing it the prefered method.

Is the old key switch an exact replacement or an aftermarket switch?  Did the switch plug directly into the original wireing harness?
Let me know.
Eric