Zero Turn electrical issue

[goober33]

Hopefully you guys can help me fix a nagging electrical problem with my zero turn mower. My problem, or I should say "problems" are: 1, the PTO switch was bad. It was replaced and worked fine for about 2 months. Then while mowing one day the engine suddenly stopped. I put the brake on safety and the engine started right back. I let off the brake and the engine died. I located the brake switch single pole, Delta Systems - and it appeared to be ok. The PTO switch which is only 2 months old is also by Delta Systems. The seat switch is a closed circuit as the mower was purchased used. The previous owner by passed the seat switch no problem for at least 1 year. So, in diagnosing the problem I can hold the brake switch on and the engine runs fine and the control bars work fine as I can transport around the yard. The problem now is when I place the PTO switch to the on position, the engine dies. I plan to re-install all the safety switches but first I need to find out what痴 going wrong. Any ideas?

 

[CobyRupert]

I'd check that the seat switch jumper didn't come loose ( open circuited)
Example: I can imagine a scenario where if the seat is not occupied (or seat switch is bad) engine will only run with safety brake on, or if seat is not occupied (or switch is bad), PTO cannot be turned on/engine stops.
$.02