Engine starting system

An internal combustion engine including an electrical starting system which integrates several components into a single assembly for easier manufacture and operation of the engine. For example, a safety switch and key are integrated with the electric motor starting system. The starting system includes a starter motor having a drive member in selective driving relationship with the engine crankshaft, and also includes a key and a switch assembled to the starter motor. The switch includes a power connector and a key interface, and the key and key interface are together moveable between a first or "insert/remove" position in which the key is selectively engageable and disengageable with the key interface, a second or "run" position in which the key is engaged with the key interface and the power connector is not in electrical communication with the starter motor, and a third or "start" position in which the key is engaged with the key interface and the power connector is in electrical communication with the starter motor.