Hi, I have a murray select 16.5 mower.. it worked fine last time used but, not when I engage the blades the motor starts to die but, if I disengage blades then the motor will recover. I checked for any binding with the blades but they are fine.. It did get wet in a storm after the tarp was blown away . I assume the problem may be a safety switch but don't know where they are . THX for any help

Hi,
Three switches are in the safety circuits. The brake switch seems to be eliminated, so that leaves the seat and blade switches.
Cannot go further without a model number, however.
Peace,
Clarke

Hi,
Three switches are in the safety circuits. The brake switch seems to be eliminated, so that leaves the seat and blade switches.
Cannot go further without a model number, however.
Peace,
Clarke

model#425000x8A it starts ,runs and drives fine so, don't think it's the seat switch... where is the blade switch located ?

Hi,
I cannat say for sure where it is as they move them constantly. You can bet you will find it somewhere around the PTO engagement. Parts manual is linked, however.
http://www.outdoordistributors.com/pdf/Murray/MURRAY-MODEL-425000X8A-LAWN-TRACTOR-(2003)-PARTS-LIST.pdf
Peace,
Clarke

Thank you for your help... Figured it out already, I found the switch , removed it from the location, started the mower while depressing the switch, engaged the blades and the engine continued to run... Turned the mower off, depressed the switch a couple of times and let the button pop up. Restarted the mower, engaged the blades , released the switch and the mower continued to run.. Reinstalled the switch, Works fine now... THX again

You have a Idler Puley froze-up or a froze-up Blade spindle