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Hi, I have an old sears, 18 hp lawn tractor. Was going fine, shut it off and a few mins. later started it up. Went 10 feet and it stopped. It starts, but when you let the clutch out it stops, even in neutral; like the seat does when you get off. Does it have another cutoff that is connected to the clutch? Anyone know about this? Thanks, frank

Post model number from under seat. You may need to make an adjustment or you have an electrical issue or both.

Short answer is yes.
Switches on seat, PTO, Clutch/Brake, gear/ direction lever.
Do as Mark advised for more help

mechanic mark said:

Post model number from under seat. You may need to make an adjustment or you have an electrical issue or both.

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Will get the model # tomorrow. Thanks f

falinn said:

Will get the model # tomorrow. Thanks f

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Here's the 'real' info.: Craftsman 42", 16hp, 6 speed transaxle-model # 917.271071- Kohler engine #CV16S- Type #PS-43519. The issue: engine cuts off when the clutch/brake is released. Thanks

Seat switch is bad.
You know the brake/clutch switch is good.
PTO switch is good because the engine starts.

Carscw said:

Seat switch is bad.
You know the brake/clutch switch is good.
PTO switch is good because the engine starts.

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The seat switch was by-passed years ago. It stops running when I let out the clutch, whether I'm in the seat or not. I have no idea about a clutch/brake switch, or if it's good...that's why I'm here and asking. Would that be in the manual, and where? It's not worded as such in the electrical diagram, as the seat plunger switch is, so what do I look for? Thanks

falinn said:

The seat switch was by-passed years ago. It stops running when I let out the clutch, whether I'm in the seat or not. I have no idea about a clutch/brake switch, or if it's good...that's why I'm here and asking. Would that be in the manual, and where? It's not worded as such in the electrical diagram, as the seat plunger switch is, so what do I look for? Thanks

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I will still say look at the seat switch.
It was bypassed I get that. But I would check it where it was bypassed at.

The switch for the clutch is working.

Carscw said:

I will still say look at the seat switch.
It was bypassed I get that. But I would check it where it was bypassed at.

The switch for the clutch is working.

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Okay, I'll check the seat switch. I thought that switch was only to cut the engine when you got off the seat. It won't be looked at for a couple of days because it's stuck out in the rain. I'll let you know what happens. Thanks for your help.

falinn said:

Okay, I'll check the seat switch. I thought that switch was only to cut the engine when you got off the seat. It won't be looked at for a couple of days because it's stuck out in the rain. I'll let you know what happens. Thanks for your help.

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With the clutch pedal down and locked you can get off the seat. When you let the clutch pedal up the engine shuts off because it thinks you are not in the seat.

If you do not have a place to store your tractor, shed etc., purchase an inexpensive tarp to cover it. Moisture is not good for electrical components, corrosion, rust, etc. I would start by unplugging one safety switch & relay at a time, inspect, clean & reinstall. I would also purchase a new seat safety switch for your own safety.

Manual Craftsman Lawn tractor 917271071 | Sears PartsDirect

Vented motorcycle covers work really well for mowers at the vents and / or slots for the mirror to poke out let the moisture out.
If you tarp it do not weight down the tarp with bricks all around or you will end u making a sauna for your mower.
A tarp, lean to style off a fence or wall is good.
I have a customer who stores their mower in an old tent that has a torn zipper, works a teat & you see tents for $ 20