2 small problems, STX38

[Todd]

Hello:

I have an STX38, black mower deck, purchased new in 1997.

1) Engine will not turn off by turning key to "OFF" position. You have to get up out of the seat to shut if off. Bad ignition switch?

2) When starting, there is a drip of gasoline out of the exhaust. You can see it leaving a little trail of drops as you back out of the storage building, then it stops. Maybe a little hard to start (engine turns a few times before it hits, but nothing major). After startup it runs fine. Started using 10% ethanol gasoline in May 2008, hope it's not related to my problem.

Thank you for your help.

Todd

[Aaron Nugent]

The ignition switch could be failing, but I would check the grounds on the right side of the frame. The ground wires are held on by the engine mounting bolt on the right side, if the bolt comes loose, there is a loss of ground, effecting the electrical system.

The inlet valve for the carb may be leaking fuel into the crankcase, which could be the cause of the fuel leaking from the muffler. Fuel maybe seeping past the inlet valve in the carb. when the mower sits (gravity feed system). One option is to rebuild the carb, or replace the carb with a new one, part # AM121863 (13-14hp engine) or AM132119 (12 hp engine). Make sure to check the engine oil level, and replace the engine oil and filter if it is diluted with fuel.

[Todd]

Thank you, Aaron.
I will check these things you have suggested.