Z254 dies when I engage blades

[Tmitton]

I have a 4 year old Z254. Starts up fine and runs smooth. As soon as I pull up on the PTO to engage the blades the mower dies. I've replaced the seat switch and the PTO. Cannot for the life of me figure out what is wrong.

The left handle that engages the parking brake is a bit loose, and I can't figure out how to tighten it. There do not seem to be any screws or bolts. If I engage the brake and let go of the levers the left lever will drift in to the point that the mower shuts off.

I don't know if the two issues are related or not.

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[mechanic mark]

Cub Cadet Service Manuals

Manuals and Diagrams for Cub Cadet Mowers and Tractors. Factory Direct from Cub Cadet. Buy Parts for Less.

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[Born2Mow]

The loose brake lever is probably not engaging the interlock switch properly. The interlock will not allow the PTO to be engaged with the p-brake lever in the "wrong" position (or a position the switch is indicating is wrong). Therefore the interlock cuts the engine off to protect you.

Find the brake lever pivot and add a "nylock nut" so that it never loosens off again. And then adjust the lever so that it properly engages the interlock switch.