Have Exmark 52 LazerZ with Kohler ch25 engine.

Have Exmark 52 LazerZ with Kohler ch25 engine. Engine stalled in heavy grass. Tried to re-start; engine turned over several times at lower RPM but stalled almost immediatly (PTO switch disengaged & deck lifetd out of the grass), then... nothing. No response to ignition switch, no clicking nothing.
Checked starter by applying power directly to it. Starter cranks but engine does not start. Checked fuses; 2 X 20amp fuses located behind to ignition switch. One bad, partially melted. Replaced this, tried to start engine & new fuse blew immediatly.

The wiring connector to the ignition switch is badly corroded. I cleaned this & replaced the switch; did not solve the problem.

Had an earlier problem starting - similar symptoms. Noted no or little fuel in the fuel filter but it started eventually after several tries. Engine started fine for 5 or 6 weeks, now this.