Snapper Model 281123BVE 11 HP starts right up and idles good until the clutch/brake is released. Then is loses most of the power and barely spits and sputters. I have cleaned the carburetor, replaced the spark plug, fuel filter, air filter and cleaner. The seat switch, deck switch and rear operator presence control switch have all been replaced and the gas tank was drained and replaced with fresh gas. This all started shortly after replacing the original mulching blade with a gator blade made for the Snapper rear rider. I was able to cut grass for about an hour before the problem started happening. I changed the blade back to the original blade and the problem continues to happen. It also doesn't matter if the blade is engaged or not, the problem exists every time the clutch/brake is released, and no matter what gear it's in. Most of the similar problems I have read about indicate the problem is the interlock switches (especially the seat switch), but they have all been replaced. Any other suggestions?

Hi,
I would say the blade replacement was merely an unlucky coincidence. You seem to have a failing ignitiion.
Peae,
Clarke
PS Thank you for the voluminous description; it takes that at times. I may not be right, but your description leads me there.

Thanks crigby! What needs to be replaced for a failing ignition?

Hi,
Merely the ignition module (armature) is the culprit. I can tell part numbers with engine numbers; or I could tell you where to find them (and others) for yourself.
Peace,
Clarke

Thanks, a part number would be nice.

Hi, CJ,
Clarke will need the #'s off the engine builder plate.

Hi,
KUXJ is correct; three Briggs and one Honda engines used on that machine. It is actually possible to look that much up on the numbers given. Your model number tells me it is 28" with 11HP engine and series #23. The BVE is a sub-series.
Peace,
Clarke

Hi,
Thanks for your help crigby and KUXJ. Decided to have someone more familiar with ignition modules replace it for me by the end of the week.

Thanks again to everyone. The problem turned out to be a faulty interlock module- part
#7063064.

Your welcome CJ99, glad to hear your up an runnin' again.