I did read the replies. I did think the problem was in the key switch but was obviously wrong. I am not to conceited to admit it. The pto switch had been siliconed together and had come apart, I figured that was why it came on by itself. I will chase down the wiring now. Sorry you wasted your time, it's plain to see that you are obviously an expert on lawn mowers. Thanks so much for your imput, so far, I have wasted 13 dollars on a ignition switch.