Probably speed control switch. Pull hear apart and check wiring connections where they plug into switch. Bet you find them burnt and loose. Look up a diagram before you pull it apart so you kinda see what you are working with. Usually has a spring steel plate with a couple bends in it that fits between top and bottom half of head unit with a shaft hole through it. It is the spring for your hand control as you rotate it to keep it where it is set. Behind that will be your switch.
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Charlie Weaver USN/ENC 1965-1979