Try starting the engine, pull the spark plug out and see if it is wet with gas, if it is you might not have any spark(possible from a fouled spark plug) or it might have low compression, put the plug into the spark plug boot and set the tip of the plug onto something that is metal on the engine and turn the engine over. you should see spark, no spark=ignition problem. If the plug is not wet the engine isn't getting any gas and you have a carburetor problem.
Turn your blades off.
yes.
Generally the ignition switch activates headlights on a riding mower and the start position only send current to the starter solenoid. If you turn the key and the engine cranks over than the lack of spark is going to be something else. If it is a riding mower you will have several safety switches to prevent start up under unsafe conditions.
The safety switch to start the motor on a Ranchking riding mower is located in the ignition. If the clutch needs to be depressed several times before the mower will start, there might be a problem with the adjustment of the clutch.
It is important to adjust the carb on your 1996 Murray 12 HP riding lawn mower from time to time. You need to start with a warm engine, and adjust the screws to make them tight.
I am assuming that the mower doesn't start.... My first guess would be that you are not getting spark to ignite the gas in the engine. Check to see if you have spark at the spark plug.
Not on a push mower that has no electric start. On a riding mower, yes there is an ignition key.
most likely but you need to find all the specifications on your present engine by the engine model number.
The choke on a riding lawnmower is typically a lever on the "dashboard." Often it is near the lock. The choke is used primarily when starting a riding mower that is cold and often it is not necessary to use the choke after the engine has been running. The choke, when engaged, allows more fuel and less air to reach the spark plug in the engine. The higher concentration of fuel is easier to ignite and thus the engine is easier to start. Once the engine is running and warm, the choke should be disengaged.
Zero turn lawn mowers can be either a riding lawn mower or a push lawn mower, depending on you're preference. Push lawn mowers start around three hundred dollars.
Pull start only
yes there is. It is an 8 hp mower with pull and electric start