Check the linkage for the mower blade brake for loose, bent or otherwise worn parts. In particular, look for the starter safety switch operated by this linkage. It may have loose screws, an alignment problem with the switch actuator or a broken housing. This would make getting it in the start position a finicky operation. Most likely, this switch will be under the deck somewhere between the lever and the mower blade housing - look for a pair of wires and trace them to the switch location along the linkage.
Safety switch
SOURCE: Blades will not engage
Lever that adjusts height does not make blades turn. You need to engage the blade lever and if you can not tell if the blades are turning then they probably aren't. check belt it could need replacement.
SOURCE: Craftsman 42" mower deck won't disengage
Try pulling on the cable coming down to deck. This cable might be your problem. Also check that the spring on the end of this cable is present and functional.
SOURCE: Scotts reel mower gear problem
I found some replacements at http://www.reelin.com. The parts number for the pinion gear is 30737-2, 30737-3 (left and right) for the Scotts Classic.
You can find the owner's manual, with part numbers, here:
http://www.reelmowersetc.com/2000-20.pdf
SOURCE: after replacing the belt, new pulleys, and bolts,
sounds like the linkage to your blades, check your lever, to make sure its working right may need some grease, it may be sticking and not fully engaging, or doing its job when its supposed to
SOURCE: craftsman riding mower blades won't disengage
This is too late, but for the next person: There is an extension spring around the cable attached to the blade engage/disengage lever.
On my tractor one end of the spring had the hook broken off or it. Because it is around the cable it is still in place but doesn't stretch when you engage the blade (so can't pull the pulley out and slacken the belt when you disengage).
The replacement is a few dollars and can be bought on ebay or Amazon.
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