SCOTTS 42589x8 42" 16 HP, RIDING MOWER DOES NOT START

[nish]

TRACED IT DOWN TO WHERE THE 1" PLATE ON THE BLADE DISENGAGE LEVER DOES NOT PUSH DOWN THE LIMIT SWITCH. i PUT A 3/8" WASHER BETWEEN THE TWO PUSHED OUT , WHICH PUSHED IN THE LIMIT SWITCH AND ENGINE TURNED OVER AND STARTED.
HOW DO I FIX IT. IS THE LEVER BENT OR SWITCH ?

 

[Rivets]

The switch has probably moved. Loosen the screws and try to reposition the switch. Also, make sure the switch housing is not cracked or broken.