MTD 1997 600 series - blades won't disengage
Hello, I have a 1997 MTD rider 600 series model # 13A5670G019. I have replaced the blades and the deck belt and reattached the deck. After reading countless posts here (Q&A's here are much better than other sites) I have decided to seek your sage advice. The blades will not disengage when the lever is pulled and set in position. I have adjusted the spring tension so that the belt slackens now when pulled but them blades keep on turning freely. How can I troubleshoot this? I just acquired the machine and don't know the maintenance history. Could this be a safety switch issue ( I noticed that a switch is depressed when the lever is pulled back to the brake position) or have I made a mess of the deck attachment? Also, the brake pads do not touch the brake disc when the brake is engaged. As you can see, I really need your help. Thank you in advance.