hi folks..those that were following my story of Kubota not starting..thank you all for your recommendations. I was always told...look for the simplest problem first.. well, i never do that The nut that holds the safety switch on the bracket for the hst peddle came loose...the switch moved just far enough off the bracket to prevent engagement and yet did not fall off. so next time.. i will look for the simplest problem first" Thanks again off we go