Scotts s2046 problem

I bought a used lawn tractor a few weeks back.* It's a Scotts s2046, 20hp tractor with snow blower attachment.* There's an identical tractor branded as JD and maybe as Murray also.*

So, it started fine at the guy's house.* I also started it twice at my house since I've had it.* I decided to start it up over the weekend and, no dice.* Turn the key and only a click.* I think it is the solenoid.* I crossed a screwdriver across the top terminals of the solenoid and it fired right up.**

Ok- now it's running.* I press down the clutch/brake, release the parking brake lever, and push on the peddle to go forward (it is hydrostatic) and the engine nearly shuts down (it would have if I had kept pushing on the forward peddle).* I did this a few times just to be sure what was happening.* I also tried engaging the pto while my foot was pressing the brake with motor running and the engine nearly shut down also (it would have if I hadn't let go of the pto lever).



I have been storing the tractor in my attached garage which the temps have dropped below freezing.

What am I missing?* There has to be something I am just doing bone-headedly??



Thanks