[markmdz]

I recently acquired a 1541 and knew it needed some work (carb tuning/cleaning, new valve stem in tire, real good overall cleaning, etc), but it was a pretty well cared for machine in great shape.

The other day, I needed to help the neighbor move a stump and the 1541 was blocking everything else in, so I jumped on it, turned the key and she fired right up without the slightest bit of hesitation. I backed out of the driveway, drove to my wagon to hitch up, put it in reverse, hooked up the wagon, then went to move forward and the drive lever was just dangling there. ...turns out one of the two bolts that holds the lever to the stub had fallen out. No big deal, I ran inside, grabbed a new one to temporarily fix it. New bolt in, lever moves nicely, so I turn the key again and this time absolutely nada. No click, no nada other than one idiot light for 'low oil', which I'm 99% sure always illuminates on any startup but shuts off as soon as the tractor starts.

...but again, NOTHING happens when I turn the key, not even an attempt at starting.

I checked all the battery cables, ignition wires are night and tight and connected well, fuse looks good, battery is nice and strong. I even tried to jump it with the Jeep and still absolutely nada.

any suggestions on what to look at? I'm very new to the mtd stuff, as all my other cubs (aside from my 2082) are all n/f cubs.