hi there

has anyone had any problems with the pull start catching while the engine is running and causing the engine to stall.

yes you need to put a washer in between the starter & the muont. I think scott mentions this in his review of the s254.

Yes, if a thin mount is used on the mag side ? ... you need to place a single #10 washer on each mount post.
* If you look at "How Far" the mount screws comes threw the threaded portion of case, they should be just flush.

Not the correct picture really, but NOTE the mount screws coming threw the cases mounting boss's. One a mount is fitted they need to be flush, shim with a washer or two per post until they do