I bought a ST12 with the deck not attached. There is an attechment clutch level that has a bend in it. In the Sears parts diagram it shows the rod as being straight. Is there a bend in this rod? Does it connect directly to the belt tightner link? When mowing do you need to keep your foot on the attachment foot lever all the time? Thanks for your help.

The link should be straight and the lever should go over center when you engage the mower so you do not have to keep your foot on it. You should have to reach down and pull the lever back over center to dis-engage the mower.