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why my motor won't cut out when I switch it off?

I have a Westwood Gazelle sit-on lawn mower and when I switch the engine off, it doesn't cut and I have to stall it. Any ideas why this is happening?
John Butt, February 2009
Most likely the kll wire has fallen off at the engine. It's normally connected to a tag on the speed control assembly just behind the air filter. If not, check the connector on the back of the ignition switch.

If all that checks out, use a screwdriver and ground the 'stop' connection (located as above) while the engine is running. If the engine still does not stop, the kill wire has fallen off at the coil (under the blower housing).

Assuming the engine DOES stop, suspect the ignition switch.

phil_saunders@bigfoot.com

Phil Saunders, February 2009
link Click here to see other fixes for Westwood.