I know this is a three year old video but for reference, checking a switch with an ohmmeter is not always a good idea. The PTO uses as much as 4 amps when initially engaged and maybe even more as they get older/used up. The ohmmeter does not put a load on the system so it may test the switch good when in reality the switch will fail under load. That's exactly what was happening to my switch. It passed the ohmmeter test with flying colors but when connected to the circuit it would not work. This is a very nice video but the best way to test the switch is to put it under load. I used an old car seal beam lamp in series with the switch to test it out and that's how I verified that the switch was in fact bad. I hope this helps someone in the future.
What a great explanation. My pto on my Cub cadet 3225 is intermittent....meaning when I pull the switch it takes several seconds to activate. Today it worked a few times and now nothing. I haven't tested it yet. Do you think the switch is faulty? Cheers
@@nickferrence8593 I am not familiar with your radio but a push to talk switch circuit does not use that much amperage. I would try cleaning it with a good contact cleaner before going for the switch itself or the relay, if your radio uses one.
@@CarlosAvellanet . Not sure what you mean by a radio switch. I'm referring to a riding tractor with a snowblower and a faulty electric switch that turns on/off the snowblower. Thanks
@@nickferrence8593 haha! my mind is playing tricks on me. I repair old radios and when I read Cadet I thought you were talking about a vintage Ten-Tec radio not even remotely connecting Cadet to riding mower....however, the same concept applies. Im almost sure the PTO circuit used a relay as well. I would check the relay first before changing the switch. It could be either or.
@@CarlosAvellanet No worries Carlos. How would I check the relay? I tried starting the tractor with the pto ON and it wouldn't therefore meaning that the switch should still work BUT for some reason it's not turning the plow. I'll check the hydraulic fluid level too. Thanks
The PTO blade switch will not engage blades. Watching your video helped a great deal. I ordered a new switch and the problem was solved. The mower is less than 2 years old with 78 hours or use. One would think a switch would last longer than that!
Finally, the first video I turned on explained it perfectly so I need to go no further and not have to listen to a half hours worth of blah, excellent video excellent instructional!
Thanks for this post. I've been fighting wiring gremlins all year with my 07 John Deere X300. It intermittently would not start. I bypassed the seat switch, parking brake switch and now added my own starter circuit. Next day, blades would not go on. If they did, they'd cut off quick. Yes, this switch when bad, will also interrupt the starter solenoid signal from ignition switch. As well as the park brake switch..My PTO switch, the 2 post switch portion, completely dead. The other two portions, intermittently made connection, then opened connection if switch got touched. Thanks for this video, AND the testing demonstration....
Sounds like my brand new 370! My husband used it once and it was fine. Today I went out to use it and the blade won’t engage, it has an LCD panel and it’s displaying 3 flashing lights, one is this part in the video, one is the parking brake light and one is the seat light, all three flashing every time I try to engage the blade. I’m wondering if fixing this part would fix all three problems?
@@amyblau542 last year was BRUTAL for my X300!!! I HAD to do a LOT of repairs myself. Due to Covid-19 , there is a 6 week waiting period once the dealer gets the machine at their shop... Last year, my X300 turned 13 years old.. I don't believe 13 is an unlucky number.....
@@howardkoster4026 We traded an 07 to get this new X370. Our old one never needed a repair! We used this new one for maybe an hour and now this issue. At least mine will be under warranty but hopefully I don’t have to wait 6 weeks! Yours should be good for a long long time, you fixed everything! Good luck!
@@amyblau542 I hope you're right. So far this year, my 07 is doing great!!! I found a schematic for mine online and saw some videos online that helped.... Be well.
Thank You. I have been trying to engage my mower blades and was unsuccessful because of this little switch. The PTO clutch was damaged with the wires partially pulled out. At some point, several wires of the harness melted together. I replaced the clutch with the correct one for this old mower but it did not work. I replaced the wiring harness (whew) but it didn't work. I watched your video and although I had replaced the switch with a new one, I tested it. It. Was. Defective. I ordered another one, tested it as soon as it arrived-good. I replaced the defective one with the new one and the blades engaged.
Great video you saved me a lot of time diagnosing my LX255 I was Concerned that there might have been a problem with the PTO. All it was, was the switch so thank you
Great Video, and Really Loved the cutaway of the switch... very informative. Went back and did the "wiggle" test on mine (pto quit working last evening) while testing it again.... and Yup, sure enough! It is the switch. The only thing I would have liked to have seen... was the readings in the closed position on your demo... your hand was completely blocking the multi-meter screen. This is the first video of yours that I've found, and just subscribed.. and saved your YT channel to my "Mower & Small Engine Folder" for future references. Thanks again... Love the Detail of explanation and visuals! Nicely done!
This video helped someone today! Switch was bad at one end of the terminals but I was able to shift the connector over to the unused prongs and voila! temporary fix until I order a new switch. Thanks!!
Interesting. Think I'll try that and call it good if it works. The center wires are for the PTO and I guess the others are safely switch circuits. Tractor won't start when disconnected. New switch doesn't cure the problem.
Two thumbs up on definitive content. Maybe you could diagram how the safty switches are wired? I get lost trying to keep all of them accounted for so without tearing the harness apart finding the short thats drawing my battery down would be very helpful. Thanks
This video is great. I was able to confirm with my multi-meter that my switch was bad just as you described. I replaced the PTO switch and now my mower runs again. I also really like the cut away to show how the switch actually operates. Thank you!
Great great great great great oh did I mention this was a GREAT GREAT VIDEO MATES?? Great explanation of how the pro switch works. Best on RUclips mate. Thanks mate
Thanks for this video! My mower blade won't turn on when I pull up in the PTO switch and I hope taking it off and messing with it a bit or getting a new one will fix the problem. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
My 2016 X584 was a no crank and no start and was weather related. My switch also tested good but after replacing the PTO switch I haven't had any problems. Before the PTO was switch was replaced I did replace the relay and the ignition switch because it was so intermittent. I also cut my switch open and it was worn out only after 8 years but you can double it because I also use it to plow and blow snow.
Thought my new E-bay replacement PTO had gone bad after only 20 hours... discovered that the spring on the tensioner pulley on the deck had broken...it keeps partial tension on the belt until the PTO kicks on . Make sure you check it also or 💲
My Scag Turf Tiger 29hp EFI had a bad PTO switch . The starter wouldn't work with the switch closed . It took me awhile to find the problem but as I turned the key on and played with the PTO switch it would crank. Changed it out and the starter worked. Thanks for your video but I wish you would have mentioned why the switch causes a no start.
Basically if i short the bottom row of pins to the middle row of pins, in pairs, so that i have three pairs ,on the plug side, the Clutch should engage and i should hear / see the clutch engage by turning on the ignition while seated . Now i can go and test the switch clutch system and have an answer i around 30 seconds flat.. Thanks for this video !
Same logic pattern I used. I started with wiring 12v directly to the unplugged clutch, it engaged so I knew it wasn't the actual clutch. Then I put 12v to the same color wires at the switch, it engaged as well. The trick was getting the seat safety switch circuit to make continuity and that actually has 2 components plus any wires or connectors or grounds that are fubar. So checked seat safety switch it works, wires look okay, retightened the ground, but now this video has me checking the other switch contacts to make mower go? Gotta try bypassing switch with three little jumper wires, see how that goes. New switch coming next week.
Great job of explaining everything, how it works and how to test it. My switch doesn't have continuity between any of the terminals. The guy I got the tractor from thought for sure it was the clutch. Glad I found your video. I guess the oem switch is 10 amp and is an issue with these tractors. I found on on amazon that is a 20 amp for $15.00.
Thanks for sharing. cool to see how it works. I ohm-ed mine it’s shot tried electric clean but four times a it is still not working. Mine has vent holes on the bottom. Black goo flowed out. Also mine is different brand mower but your video was well put together and most lended itself to other brands.
Just bought a switch for my Exmark Lazer Z today it was $47, the difference between the one you showed and mine is the blank space was in the middle row on the end. 👍🏻
I ve been pulling the connection after the tractor is running and jumping across the center terminals to engage the mower. New switch didn't fix my problem. Have to have pressure on seat switch and brake off when jumping. Haven't found the problem yet to fix it right.
Thanks for this video!! The PTO on my John Deer just top working and is not engaging the blades. I was about to take it the shop but I'm gonna get a new PTO and hope that fix the problem.
The problem was my battery the deck just work when I put the jumper cables whit the old battery the deck doesn't engage so I put new battery and deck engages perfect the old battery just starts the tractor.
Am I the only one distracted by the carburator float needle by your right hand that you knock off the table at 5:20? Do you still need it? Did you pick it up?
My 2021 cub cadet xt1 has 65 hours on it. When I engage the pto blades it blows the 20 amp fuse under the seat to the battery. Could the switch be bad causing this?
I've seen on ebay people selling "10 amp" upgrade PTO switches, which I guess the factory piece is rating for 5 amps. Not sure if those are actually better than OEM, or just a gimmick, or just junk? I had to replace my wiring harness in my Husqvarna. And I noticed the new one didn't come with a diode for the clutch. So not sure if the PRO switch will burn out eventually, or maybe I'll hack it and add a diode in since the wiring harness from the factory came with one, but I guess the later harnesses they stopped including a diode. As brand new wiring harnesses for my mower don't include the diode.
He did go through that a little quickly. Your multimeter will read 1 if there is absolutely no connection at all. If there is a perfect connection, your multimeter will read 0. (When it's set for ohms (also represented by the capital Greek omega).)
We need a video on how to get the wiring harness disconnected from the switch. My new wiring harness won’t turn lose of the switch. Must be an indention in the connector.
That is so close to what I needed. It did get me closer to understanding how the switch works. Now I need to find out what wire goes to what blade. Lx176 JD, btw. New switch very close to the one in the video, old from my 1992 JD was a toggle switch and the old harness doesn’t work. I need to add spade connectors to wires and plug onto new switch. Problem is what wires go where. To many videos showing “how to replace your PTO” are just well unplug and plug in, understand you need to learn this somewhere but I need what wires go to A Com & NC, what wire goes to C Com, NO & NC. Any help would be great. I know I have power Y/b , Ground B, safety seat/brake on P&light P and Blue which I think goes direct to PTO. Thanks anyone!
Thank you for explaining. I have a 2003 Cub Cadet Z Force 44" and I deleted my safety switches by taking them out and pushing the button all the way down and drilling a small hole through the side (going through the button with it pushed down) and pushed a pin all the through, causing it to hold the button in. This bypassed all the safety switches and the mower operates great except when you engage the PTO. I believe I can run a hot wire into the PTO switch and run a hot wire out to the clutch. Still working on it at the moment. Any suggestions please let me know. Thank you.
I just do the middle on my 425 after the tractor is started and it engages the PTO. Have to pull the jumper wire when done mowing and reattach the plug to keep engine running or to restart tractor.
I've tested the engage blade switch (and a spare) on my Murray (11ic/36). The engine starts as I pull the lever but when I just release it (don't even try to engage blades) it cuts out. I've disconnected the plug and shunted two connectors so the engine starts (I by-passed the safety switches on the seat and the brake/clutch pedal long ago). And I can engage the blades fine. So, I can mow. Fine. But I still don't understand the problem. I should add that the blades engage immediately from cold, whereas in the past (5-6 years) I've had to warm the engine before engaging the blades or the motor would cut out. Any wisdom much appreciated!!
Question. My zero turn just shut off while idling. I jump started it but it showed 11.6 volts. Blades engaged then shut off twice. Do you think the battery can make pto shit off as well if the battery is low? Thank you
Yes, the PTO runs off battery voltage. Usually the charging system isn’t strong enough to keep the pto going. If battery voltage gets to low the pto will turn on and then shut off, as there is not enough juice to keep the PTO, which is a giant electric magnetic, engaged.
I pull the plug off the switch after tractor is started and jump across the middle row to engage PTO. Reattach plug to switch after done mowing or tractor won't stay running or restart. Unsure what is required to fix correctly. Tried new switch. Same problem.
Yes, because its part of the safety system. In the down (off) position, it's normally closed, meaning the blade is not engaged and safe to start. This is part of the same circuit that ensures you're sitting on the seat, and the brake is engaged as well. This was intermittent for me, and allowed me to start some times. Ordered a replacement after understanding how this switch works. Thanks for the video!
@@spamnelsonhere I replaced switch but engine wont turn over. No click or anything. If I turn key and push/pull blade switch can hear that click but nothing from solenoid or starter. Worked fine 2 weeks ago just blades stopped but engine kept running.
I usually not as worried about an actual ohm reading as I am continuity. Being a on/off type switch it should be as close to zero ohms as possible. In reality a good switch will probably show 3-4 ohms or less.
Would a bad switch kill the PTO when mowing? I’ll be mowing and just randomly the PTO will shut off. I press the knob back in and pull it out and it starts again. Then after a varying amount of time it will shut off again. I don’t understand why. I adjusted the clutch air gap, cleaned the terminals of the switch and checked the safety switches on the machine. What am I missing here
Yes maybe the pto switch has a poor connection when it gets hot. Two other things come to mind. My walk behind pto shuts off when the battery is getting low and the charging system can’t keep up, it’ll kick off. I can turn it right back on but a couple of minutes later it’ll kick off again. Second thing that has happened is one of my battery terminals had just a little wiggle to it and the vibration would cause it to loose connection just for a split second and that would turn my pto off. The only way I found that out was I noticed a tiny spark at the battery when I was mowing. When I touched it the pto turned off. I tried that several times and it consistently turned off my pto. I could imagine it would do that anywhere along the power or ground wire if one wasn’t clean or tight.
@@metalinmotionshop I’m using a ventrac and we just got it last year. I would expect the clutch to go bad already. It’s charging at 14.3 volts. I’ll check the battery connection tomorrow. I’m also going to check the clutch for resistance across the leads to see if it is bad.
I replaced the pto switch however its difficult pushing the switch on all the way. What kind of oil or lubricant can I use to push the prongs on all the way
I have a snapper pro s50 pto shut off while cutting. Checked all fuses the switch no cut wires safety switches. I just need to know if the plug that plugs into the pto plug has power to both wires when engaged. Also I'm going to put 12v to that pto to see if it clicks. I have power to one side of the plug that goes to the plug but not both sides.
The PTOs have two wires going to them. One is a power and one is a ground. Apply 12 volts to one wire and ground the other wire with a jumper wire to the frame somewhere. It should click. You can also measure the ohms between those two wires. The ohms vary depending on what brand clutch it is, but its somewhere between 3-7 ohms if I remember correctly. Too low of ohms and you’ll pull too many amps and burn out the pto switch and blow the fuse. Also check for continuity between each wire and the PTOs metal body. There should be no continuity or its shorted and bad. Here is a link to a s50 snapper. It might not be your exact wire schematic but it might help you. It’s specifically the PTO wiring circuit. Good luck. www.jackssmallengines.com/jacks-parts-lookup/manufacturer/snapper-pro/mid-mount-zero-turn-riding-mowers/s50xt-series/5901209-s50xtkav1948-48-zero-turn-rider/electrical-schematic-pto-clutch-circuit-s-n-2016499706-below
@@metalinmotionshop hey thanks for everything. It ended up being the switch. I cut it open It has a broken clip and I have a plastic welder And I was able to make it work and welding the Case back together. And ordered a new switch
I don't seem to find my answer to my question my tractor is running fine without the PTO engage it runs fine as soon as I engage it the engine shuts off
What kind a of mower is it? Usually if the engine shuts off when the pto is engaged it mean you have another safety switch not working. Check your seat switch and your brake switch.
My Timecutter MX 5060. Was running good. Turned it off. When I turned key to start, nothing happened. Repeat. When I turn key to start position, silence, nothing happens. Can you Help ?
Check all the easy things like your parking brake, pto switch turned off, handles back in the open position, sitting on the seat. If that doesn’t fix it, try cranking while wiggling the pto switch in the off position. Wiggling it side to side and a smidge up or down might fix a poor connection. If that fixes it but then it comes back consider replacing the pto switch.
@@mrcleanisinI can’t advise disabling your kill circuit. If you came off the seat or flipped your blades and engine wouldn’t turn off. Too risky for me to advise it.
Hey Josh. My pto isn't working but when I pull the switch I hear a thud down below, like it's trying to but won't engage. Would that point to the pto itself?
@@metalinmotionshop exactly. Nothing happens. I was cutting grass with headphones on and noticed they stopped working past way down the yard. When I pull the switch I hear a slight knock sound below, but the blades don't engage
If you haven’t fix your problem already, my gut is that you’ve got a belt problem and not a PTO problem since you’re hearing a thud...hopefully coming from the pto itself. It is possible that the PTO could be slipping and it needs to be adjusted, if it’s adjustable. Otherwise if it slipping and non adjustable the clutch plate is propably wore out. Did you check the belts already? Make sure they didnt break or fall off a pulley.
My PTO tested good, but it still blows my 10amp fuse when I try to engage the blades. I put in a new solenoid and battery. I set my meter on the spot my fuse goes and engage the PTO and it reads 12.28 but it still blows the fuse. Help... anyone?
You might consider checking the wiring from your PTO to all the places it connects and make sure they’re clean and tight. Secondly, you could check the gap on your PTO clutch to see if it is still in tolerance ( your manual, or check the internet for your specific clutch specification.) And lastly, you could spray your PTO clutch liberally with brake cleaner, then dry it with compressed air. Also, check your deck belts and blade bearings for excessive friction or play. If that doesn’t help, your clutch could be going bad.
Thanks for the explanation. 8 pins on the switch seems complex but it actually switches 3 different circuits at once. I was expecting just one for the electric clutch. I suppose the other is for safety? Seat switch involved here too? So junior can't cut his foot off when he tries to dismount while mowing?
That depends. If you have no metal-to-metal contact, you won't have continuity, so in that fashion, yes. But the two terms aren't always interchangeable.
Maybe I should of said AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME VIDEO MATE. DID I MENTION THIS WAS AN AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME EXPLANATION OF PTO SWITCH UTILIZATION. THANKS MATE. METAL N MOTION. AWSOME !!!!!!!!!😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎
Exactly the video I needed. I mean perfect. So if my switch tests fine and wiggling has no effect, I likely need a new clutch on my 3 year old Husqvarna. Never replaced a clutch before, but I usually figure these things out. Is replacing the clutch one of those things that really should be done by a shop or is possible a DYI'er could get it done in an afternoon?
I've sheared the bolt that holds the PTO clutch in place. Removing and reinstalling it is pretty straight forward. I put in a bolt that barely fit in the slot, it seems much stronger now.
Hey Josh, are you still around? You've done some work for me in the past and then I lost track of you when you moved. Let me know where you're at these days. I've got a mower that needs some diagnosing.
Hi, I just got a new John Deere lawn mower x370. My husband used it once and no problem. Today I tried using it and the mower blade won’t engage. There are three lights on the panel that flash at me, I can’t put the photo up to show you, but one light is the PTO flashing, one is the parking brake flashing and the other is the seat flashing all at the same time. I do have the parking brake off. Engine starts fine. Anyone have any advice? Thanks in advance!
It's so funny that I'm coming across this now😂 I'm working on my stepdad's exmark vantage and it keeps popping fuses for the PTO, so his dumbass was putting 15-20 amp fuses to make it last longer I guess before it blew the fuse once again smh lol, the inside of the PTO switch was melted on the hot side for the PTO wire smh, fucking thing caught fire last year and all the wiring is burnt up but I'm currently working on rewiring the whole POS smh
Thats normal to have some not being used. A big Snapper pro zero turn mower last week had the 8 terminals on the switch and only 3 of them in the middle were being used.
I know this is a three year old video but for reference, checking a switch with an ohmmeter is not always a good idea. The PTO uses as much as 4 amps when initially engaged and maybe even more as they get older/used up. The ohmmeter does not put a load on the system so it may test the switch good when in reality the switch will fail under load. That's exactly what was happening to my switch. It passed the ohmmeter test with flying colors but when connected to the circuit it would not work. This is a very nice video but the best way to test the switch is to put it under load. I used an old car seal beam lamp in series with the switch to test it out and that's how I verified that the switch was in fact bad. I hope this helps someone in the future.
What a great explanation. My pto on my Cub cadet 3225 is intermittent....meaning when I pull the switch it takes several seconds to activate. Today it worked a few times and now nothing. I haven't tested it yet. Do you think the switch is faulty?
Cheers
@@nickferrence8593 I am not familiar with your radio but a push to talk switch circuit does not use that much amperage. I would try cleaning it with a good contact cleaner before going for the switch itself or the relay, if your radio uses one.
@@CarlosAvellanet . Not sure what you mean by a radio switch. I'm referring to a riding tractor with a snowblower and a faulty electric switch that turns on/off the snowblower. Thanks
@@nickferrence8593 haha! my mind is playing tricks on me. I repair old radios and when I read Cadet I thought you were talking about a vintage Ten-Tec radio not even remotely connecting Cadet to riding mower....however, the same concept applies. Im almost sure the PTO circuit used a relay as well. I would check the relay first before changing the switch. It could be either or.
@@CarlosAvellanet No worries Carlos. How would I check the relay? I tried starting the tractor with the pto ON and it wouldn't therefore meaning that the switch should still work BUT for some reason it's not turning the plow. I'll check the hydraulic fluid level too. Thanks
The PTO blade switch will not engage blades. Watching your video helped a great deal. I ordered a new switch and the problem was solved. The mower is less than 2 years old with 78 hours or use. One would think a switch would last longer than that!
4 year old video but it’s still helping people, it sure helped me, thank you!
Finally, the first video I turned on explained it perfectly so I need to go no further and not have to listen to a half hours worth of blah, excellent video excellent instructional!
Thanks for this post. I've been fighting wiring gremlins all year with my 07 John Deere X300. It intermittently would not start. I bypassed the seat switch, parking brake switch and now added my own starter circuit. Next day, blades would not go on. If they did, they'd cut off quick. Yes, this switch when bad, will also interrupt the starter solenoid signal from ignition switch. As well as the park brake switch..My PTO switch, the 2 post switch portion, completely dead. The other two portions, intermittently made connection, then opened connection if switch got touched.
Thanks for this video, AND the testing demonstration....
Sounds like my brand new 370! My husband used it once and it was fine. Today I went out to use it and the blade won’t engage, it has an LCD panel and it’s displaying 3 flashing lights, one is this part in the video, one is the parking brake light and one is the seat light, all three flashing every time I try to engage the blade. I’m wondering if fixing this part would fix all three problems?
@@amyblau542 last year was BRUTAL for my X300!!! I HAD to do a LOT of repairs myself. Due to Covid-19 , there is a 6 week waiting period once the dealer gets the machine at their shop...
Last year, my X300 turned 13 years old..
I don't believe 13 is an unlucky number.....
@@howardkoster4026
We traded an 07 to get this new X370. Our old one never needed a repair! We used this new one for maybe an hour and now this issue. At least mine will be under warranty but hopefully I don’t have to wait 6 weeks! Yours should be good for a long long time, you fixed everything! Good luck!
@@amyblau542 I hope you're right. So far this year, my 07 is doing great!!! I found a schematic for mine online and saw some videos online that helped....
Be well.
Thank You. I have been trying to engage my mower blades and was unsuccessful because of this little switch. The PTO clutch was damaged with the wires partially pulled out. At some point, several wires of the harness melted together. I replaced the clutch with the correct one for this old mower but it did not work. I replaced the wiring harness (whew) but it didn't work. I watched your video and although I had replaced the switch with a new one, I tested it. It. Was. Defective. I ordered another one, tested it as soon as it arrived-good. I replaced the defective one with the new one and the blades engaged.
That was one of the best ,to the point , informative videos I've seen.Thanks👍🇺🇲
Great instructional video. It was easy to follow and a thorough explanation. Thanks so much!
Very informative and thanks for the internal component view , awesome 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Very helpful video. I found the problem on my Husqvarna mower easily following your directions. Bad switch at the 2 blade position.
Thanks, this video solved my problem. Rad you took the time to show the guts of the switch!
Great video you saved me a lot of time diagnosing my LX255 I was Concerned that there might have been a problem with the PTO. All it was, was the switch so thank you
380k views, and less than 3k thumbs ups, with less than 180 comments. Great great explanation, love the cutaway, people are grimy.
Great Video, and Really Loved the cutaway of the switch... very informative. Went back and did the "wiggle" test on mine (pto quit working last evening) while testing it again.... and Yup, sure enough! It is the switch. The only thing I would have liked to have seen... was the readings in the closed position on your demo... your hand was completely blocking the multi-meter screen. This is the first video of yours that I've found, and just subscribed.. and saved your YT channel to my "Mower & Small Engine Folder" for future references. Thanks again... Love the Detail of explanation and visuals! Nicely done!
This video helped someone today! Switch was bad at one end of the terminals but I was able to shift the connector over to the unused prongs and voila! temporary fix until I order a new switch. Thanks!!
Interesting. Think I'll try that and call it good if it works. The center wires are for the PTO and I guess the others are safely switch circuits. Tractor won't start when disconnected. New switch doesn't cure the problem.
Two thumbs up on definitive content. Maybe you could diagram how the safty switches are wired? I get lost trying to keep all of them accounted for so without tearing the harness apart finding the short thats drawing my battery down would be very helpful. Thanks
This video is great. I was able to confirm with my multi-meter that my switch was bad just as you described. I replaced the PTO switch and now my mower runs again. I also really like the cut away to show how the switch actually operates. Thank you!
Thanks. I have black and red switches. Both test the same and were good on 10-15 y/o mowers.
Great great great great great oh did I mention this was a GREAT GREAT VIDEO MATES?? Great explanation of how the pro switch works. Best on RUclips mate. Thanks mate
Well a question if the pto is stuck engaged could that be a reason why my mower won't start
Thanks for this video! My mower blade won't turn on when I pull up in the PTO switch and I hope taking it off and messing with it a bit or getting a new one will fix the problem. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
I am wondering if a new switch fixed your pto mower problem or did you find something else?
Did a new switch solve the problem?
@@CarlJohnson-ry3gc I replaced the PTO switch. That was the problem
@@jerrycannon6940 yes, that solved the problem:)
@@naturegirl8248 you have better luck than me. I had to replace the solenoid on back of transaxel. It was easy, but cost 140 bucks for the part.
Your video solved my problem. Thank you. It was well done.
My 2016 X584 was a no crank and no start and was weather related. My switch also tested good but after replacing the PTO switch I haven't had any problems. Before the PTO was switch was replaced I did replace the relay and the ignition switch because it was so intermittent. I also cut my switch open and it was worn out only after 8 years but you can double it because I also use it to plow and blow snow.
Good video. Now I'll have to test the switch. Unfortunately, my problem is intermittent so it may test fine when I pull it out.
...Multimeter set to "Noise"! Love it! 😊...Well done!
Thought my new E-bay replacement PTO had gone bad after only 20 hours... discovered that the spring on the tensioner pulley on the deck had broken...it keeps partial tension on the belt until the PTO kicks on . Make sure you check it also or 💲
My Scag Turf Tiger 29hp EFI had a bad PTO switch . The starter wouldn't work with the switch closed .
It took me awhile to find the problem but as I turned the key on and played with the PTO switch it would crank. Changed it out and the starter worked.
Thanks for your video but I wish you would have mentioned why the switch causes a no start.
Basically if i short the bottom row of pins to the middle row of pins, in pairs, so that i have three pairs ,on the plug side, the Clutch should engage and i should hear / see the clutch engage by turning on the ignition while seated . Now i can go and test the switch clutch system and have an answer i around 30 seconds flat.. Thanks for this video !
Same logic pattern I used. I started with wiring 12v directly to the unplugged clutch, it engaged so I knew it wasn't the actual clutch. Then I put 12v to the same color wires at the switch, it engaged as well. The trick was getting the seat safety switch circuit to make continuity and that actually has 2 components plus any wires or connectors or grounds that are fubar. So checked seat safety switch it works, wires look okay, retightened the ground, but now this video has me checking the other switch contacts to make mower go?
Gotta try bypassing switch with three little jumper wires, see how that goes. New switch coming next week.
Great job of explaining everything, how it works and how to test it. My switch doesn't have continuity between any of the terminals. The guy I got the tractor from thought for sure it was the clutch. Glad I found your video. I guess the oem switch is 10 amp and is an issue with these tractors. I found on on amazon that is a 20 amp for $15.00.
Great video very helpful my mower deck quit working mid mowing took the switch out and tested it it had gone bad. Thanks so much
Thanks for sharing. cool to see how it works. I ohm-ed mine it’s shot tried electric clean but four times a it is still not working. Mine has vent holes on the bottom. Black goo flowed out. Also mine is different brand mower but your video was well put together and most lended itself to other brands.
Excellent content, no fluff, thank you!
Hi,
Way my Toro ride on pto is working all time ?
The engine starts on pto swift on only If turn off the pto switch the motor doesn't start .🤔
Just bought a switch for my Exmark Lazer Z today it was $47, the difference between the one you showed and mine is the blank space was in the middle row on the end. 👍🏻
Thank you so much for this. Great and simple video.
Blades suddenly cut out and now won't come on, will use this as starting point...thanks
any update?
I ve been pulling the connection after the tractor is running and jumping across the center terminals to engage the mower. New switch didn't fix my problem. Have to have pressure on seat switch and brake off when jumping. Haven't found the problem yet to fix it right.
Thank you. This was extremely informative.
Thanks for this video!! The PTO on my John Deer just top working and is not engaging the blades. I was about to take it the shop but I'm gonna get a new PTO and hope that fix the problem.
Works for you new pto switch
@@81salinas No because that was not the problem. it was the the PTO clutch.
The problem was my battery the deck just work when I put the jumper cables whit the old battery the deck doesn't engage so I put new battery and deck engages perfect the old battery just starts the tractor.
@@81salinas great i'm glad you got it fix. now is time to cut grass.. lol
@@SCuttingEdgeLawnService how much is a PTO clutch parts and labor?
thank you. just fixed mine thanks to your video!
Am I the only one distracted by the carburator float needle by your right hand that you knock off the table at 5:20? Do you still need it? Did you pick it up?
I just test mine and it was bad thank you for the video it help a lot
Thank you for an excellent video!
Thank You! You helped me troubleshoot and solve the problem with my Deere Quicktrack 647.
Well done and well made video. Thanks!
Second time I have had to change this switch. I couldn’t remember the continuity pattern.
You keep referencing bottom and top, is bottom nc or com, please clarify
My 2021 cub cadet xt1 has 65 hours on it. When I engage the pto blades it blows the 20 amp fuse under the seat to the battery. Could the switch be bad causing this?
I've seen on ebay people selling "10 amp" upgrade PTO switches, which I guess the factory piece is rating for 5 amps. Not sure if those are actually better than OEM, or just a gimmick, or just junk? I had to replace my wiring harness in my Husqvarna. And I noticed the new one didn't come with a diode for the clutch. So not sure if the PRO switch will burn out eventually, or maybe I'll hack it and add a diode in since the wiring harness from the factory came with one, but I guess the later harnesses they stopped including a diode. As brand new wiring harnesses for my mower don't include the diode.
So that the what is causing my snowthrower auger to run when the switch is off
I've replaced this switch twice with no success. There are two wires I pulled out of the switch and shorted them and PTO engaged. Help, please.
Well said, but I'd like to see what you're talking about. It would be nice to see what the meter is reading when you test the switch.
He did go through that a little quickly. Your multimeter will read 1 if there is absolutely no connection at all. If there is a perfect connection, your multimeter will read 0. (When it's set for ohms (also represented by the capital Greek omega).)
We need a video on how to get the wiring harness disconnected from the switch. My new wiring harness won’t turn lose of the switch. Must be an indention in the connector.
thanks, just went out and gave the pto switch a turn while turning the key and it started.
Thank you very much my friend you explained that perfectly I really do appreciate it
That is so close to what I needed. It did get me closer to understanding how the switch works. Now I need to find out what wire goes to what blade. Lx176 JD, btw. New switch very close to the one in the video, old from my 1992 JD was a toggle switch and the old harness doesn’t work. I need to add spade connectors to wires and plug onto new switch. Problem is what wires go where. To many videos showing “how to replace your PTO” are just well unplug and plug in, understand you need to learn this somewhere but I need what wires go to A Com & NC, what wire goes to C Com, NO & NC. Any help would be great. I know I have power Y/b , Ground B, safety seat/brake on P&light P and Blue which I think goes direct to PTO. Thanks anyone!
Thank you for explaining. I have a 2003 Cub Cadet Z Force 44" and I deleted my safety switches by taking them out and pushing the button all the way down and drilling a small hole through the side (going through the button with it pushed down) and pushed a pin all the through, causing it to hold the button in. This bypassed all the safety switches and the mower operates great except when you engage the PTO. I believe I can run a hot wire into the PTO switch and run a hot wire out to the clutch. Still working on it at the moment. Any suggestions please let me know. Thank you.
Have a dr pull behind. Cannot figure out how to wire it. 5 wires on key and the 8 on blade switch. Any help would be appreciated
to bypass the switch......which connections do I jump across on the wire plug to see if my blades engage without this switch?
do the middle and bottom connected in all 3 rows to bypass the switch?
I just do the middle on my 425 after the tractor is started and it engages the PTO. Have to pull the jumper wire when done mowing and reattach the plug to keep engine running or to restart tractor.
I've tested the engage blade switch (and a spare) on my Murray (11ic/36). The engine starts as I pull the lever but when I just release it (don't even try to engage blades) it cuts out. I've disconnected the plug and shunted two connectors so the engine starts (I by-passed the safety switches on the seat and the brake/clutch pedal long ago). And I can engage the blades fine. So, I can mow. Fine. But I still don't understand the problem. I should add that the blades engage immediately from cold, whereas in the past (5-6 years) I've had to warm the engine before engaging the blades or the motor would cut out.
Any wisdom much appreciated!!
Question. My zero turn just shut off while idling. I jump started it but it showed 11.6 volts. Blades engaged then shut off twice. Do you think the battery can make pto shit off as well if the battery is low? Thank you
Yes, the PTO runs off battery voltage. Usually the charging system isn’t strong enough to keep the pto going. If battery voltage gets to low the pto will turn on and then shut off, as there is not enough juice to keep the PTO, which is a giant electric magnetic, engaged.
I put new PTO switch but still not working any idea please?
I pull the plug off the switch after tractor is started and jump across the middle row to engage PTO. Reattach plug to switch after done mowing or tractor won't stay running or restart. Unsure what is required to fix correctly. Tried new switch. Same problem.
@@googleuser868 Sounds like 1 of the safety switches, probably seat or lever
Can this switch keep your mower from starting?
Yes, because its part of the safety system. In the down (off) position, it's normally closed, meaning the blade is not engaged and safe to start. This is part of the same circuit that ensures you're sitting on the seat, and the brake is engaged as well. This was intermittent for me, and allowed me to start some times. Ordered a replacement after understanding how this switch works. Thanks for the video!
@@spamnelsonhere I replaced switch but engine wont turn over. No click or anything. If I turn key and push/pull blade switch can hear that click but nothing from solenoid or starter. Worked fine 2 weeks ago just blades stopped but engine kept running.
@@flaron352 check the switch for the brake , it is under the seat
What ohm’s setting should I put my multi meter on
I usually not as worried about an actual ohm reading as I am continuity. Being a on/off type switch it should be as close to zero ohms as possible. In reality a good switch will probably show 3-4 ohms or less.
Movers starts good however once I put the pto switch out it turns off. Blades don't move
Would a bad switch kill the PTO when mowing? I’ll be mowing and just randomly the PTO will shut off. I press the knob back in and pull it out and it starts again. Then after a varying amount of time it will shut off again. I don’t understand why. I adjusted the clutch air gap, cleaned the terminals of the switch and checked the safety switches on the machine. What am I missing here
Yes maybe the pto switch has a poor connection when it gets hot. Two other things come to mind. My walk behind pto shuts off when the battery is getting low and the charging system can’t keep up, it’ll kick off. I can turn it right back on but a couple of minutes later it’ll kick off again. Second thing that has happened is one of my battery terminals had just a little wiggle to it and the vibration would cause it to loose connection just for a split second and that would turn my pto off. The only way I found that out was I noticed a tiny spark at the battery when I was mowing. When I touched it the pto turned off. I tried that several times and it consistently turned off my pto. I could imagine it would do that anywhere along the power or ground wire if one wasn’t clean or tight.
@@metalinmotionshop I’m using a ventrac and we just got it last year. I would expect the clutch to go bad already. It’s charging at 14.3 volts. I’ll check the battery connection tomorrow. I’m also going to check the clutch for resistance across the leads to see if it is bad.
I replaced the pto switch however its difficult pushing the switch on all the way. What kind of oil or lubricant can I use to push the prongs on all the way
Maybe a dielectric grease. Having it nice and tight isn’t a bad thing as it insures good connections.
Good man Josh! Very good info. Thank you so much.
Great job by technician
You didn't say what to set multimeter on to test the swith. But other than that, this was very very helpful. 😊👍
Continuity
I have a snapper pro s50 pto shut off while cutting. Checked all fuses the switch no cut wires safety switches.
I just need to know if the plug that plugs into the pto plug has power to both wires when engaged. Also I'm going to put 12v to that pto to see if it clicks. I have power to one side of the plug that goes to the plug but not both sides.
The PTOs have two wires going to them. One is a power and one is a ground. Apply 12 volts to one wire and ground the other wire with a jumper wire to the frame somewhere. It should click. You can also measure the ohms between those two wires. The ohms vary depending on what brand clutch it is, but its somewhere between 3-7 ohms if I remember correctly. Too low of ohms and you’ll pull too many amps and burn out the pto switch and blow the fuse. Also check for continuity between each wire and the PTOs metal body. There should be no continuity or its shorted and bad. Here is a link to a s50 snapper. It might not be your exact wire schematic but it might help you. It’s specifically the PTO wiring circuit. Good luck.
www.jackssmallengines.com/jacks-parts-lookup/manufacturer/snapper-pro/mid-mount-zero-turn-riding-mowers/s50xt-series/5901209-s50xtkav1948-48-zero-turn-rider/electrical-schematic-pto-clutch-circuit-s-n-2016499706-below
@@metalinmotionshop Thanks for the quick response I'll check it out.
@@metalinmotionshop hey thanks for everything.
It ended up being the switch. I cut it open
It has a broken clip and I have a plastic welder
And I was able to make it work and welding the
Case back together. And ordered a new switch
@@glennpitre2239 That’s awesome. Great job!
Dude Your Awesome! Thank You.
I don't seem to find my answer to my question my tractor is running fine without the PTO engage it runs fine as soon as I engage it the engine shuts off
What kind a of mower is it? Usually if the engine shuts off when the pto is engaged it mean you have another safety switch not working. Check your seat switch and your brake switch.
My Timecutter MX 5060. Was running good. Turned it off. When I turned key to start, nothing happened.
Repeat. When I turn key to start position, silence, nothing happens.
Can you Help ?
Check all the easy things like your parking brake, pto switch turned off, handles back in the open position, sitting on the seat. If that doesn’t fix it, try cranking while wiggling the pto switch in the off position. Wiggling it side to side and a smidge up or down might fix a poor connection. If that fixes it but then it comes back consider replacing the pto switch.
I am searching for a quick explanation of why when I pull the pto switch on the motor dies.
Check seat switch and or reverse pedal switch and connectors.
@@metalinmotionshop In order to keep the mower running can't I simply cut one of the wires on PTO switch?
@@mrcleanisinI can’t advise disabling your kill circuit. If you came off the seat or flipped your blades and engine wouldn’t turn off. Too risky for me to advise it.
Blades won't disengage on cub cadet 1040
Hey Josh. My pto isn't working but when I pull the switch I hear a thud down below, like it's trying to but won't engage. Would that point to the pto itself?
Define pto not working. As in, when you pull the pto switch your blades dont turn at all?
@@metalinmotionshop exactly. Nothing happens. I was cutting grass with headphones on and noticed they stopped working past way down the yard. When I pull the switch I hear a slight knock sound below, but the blades don't engage
If you haven’t fix your problem already, my gut is that you’ve got a belt problem and not a PTO problem since you’re hearing a thud...hopefully coming from the pto itself. It is possible that the PTO could be slipping and it needs to be adjusted, if it’s adjustable. Otherwise if it slipping and non adjustable the clutch plate is propably wore out. Did you check the belts already? Make sure they didnt break or fall off a pulley.
@@metalinmotionshop I haven't fixed it yet. I remember looking at belts and they all seemed fine. The pto is non adjustable on mine too.
Why are there so many wires for this on / off switch ?
Starter circuit to the solenoid, kill circuit to the coil, and power to the pto are usually what they are.
My PTO tested good, but it still blows my 10amp fuse when I try to engage the blades. I put in a new solenoid and battery. I set my meter on the spot my fuse goes and engage the PTO and it reads 12.28 but it still blows the fuse. Help... anyone?
You might consider checking the wiring from your PTO to all the places it connects and make sure they’re clean and tight. Secondly, you could check the gap on your PTO clutch to see if it is still in tolerance ( your manual, or check the internet for your specific clutch specification.) And lastly, you could spray your PTO clutch liberally with brake cleaner, then dry it with compressed air. Also, check your deck belts and blade bearings for excessive friction or play. If that doesn’t help, your clutch could be going bad.
Great video. Thanks
Would have been a good video if you were to move your hands away from the multimeter
Thanks for the explanation. 8 pins on the switch seems complex but it actually switches 3 different circuits at once. I was expecting just one for the electric clutch. I suppose the other is for safety? Seat switch involved here too? So junior can't cut his foot off when he tries to dismount while mowing?
Is having contact the same as having continuity
That depends. If you have no metal-to-metal contact, you won't have continuity, so in that fashion, yes. But the two terms aren't always interchangeable.
@@tylerletcher thanks
Maybe I should of said AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME VIDEO MATE. DID I MENTION THIS WAS AN AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME EXPLANATION OF PTO SWITCH UTILIZATION. THANKS MATE. METAL N MOTION. AWSOME !!!!!!!!!😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎
Exactly the video I needed. I mean perfect. So if my switch tests fine and wiggling has no effect, I likely need a new clutch on my 3 year old Husqvarna. Never replaced a clutch before, but I usually figure these things out. Is replacing the clutch one of those things that really should be done by a shop or is possible a DYI'er could get it done in an afternoon?
I've sheared the bolt that holds the PTO clutch in place. Removing and reinstalling it is pretty straight forward. I put in a bolt that barely fit in the slot, it seems much stronger now.
Gotta say awesome video simple to the point and understandable awesome
Thank you GREATLY! Mine tests bad, so I'm hoping that's all it needs. PTO tests at 2.6 ohms, so it should be okay.
My mower will not start when hot. Pretty sure now this is the problem cause I already changed the relay under the control panel
EXCELLENT VIDEO!!
Thank you, clear concise instruction. And yes, mine was bad.
Hey Josh, are you still around? You've done some work for me in the past and then I lost track of you when you moved. Let me know where you're at these days. I've got a mower that needs some diagnosing.
Im still around and still doing repair. Look my business up in Philadelphia. You’ll find me there. Im about 30 min south from where I was.
Need a PTO won't engage video (electrical)
Hi, I just got a new John Deere lawn mower x370. My husband used it once and no problem. Today I tried using it and the mower blade won’t engage. There are three lights on the panel that flash at me, I can’t put the photo up to show you, but one light is the PTO flashing, one is the parking brake flashing and the other is the seat flashing all at the same time. I do have the parking brake off. Engine starts fine. Anyone have any advice? Thanks in advance!
I’m assuming that it’s part of the safety system and getting this part fixed or replaced should take care of it, I’m hoping?
Thanks for the great info!
Thank you Josh that helped
It's so funny that I'm coming across this now😂 I'm working on my stepdad's exmark vantage and it keeps popping fuses for the PTO, so his dumbass was putting 15-20 amp fuses to make it last longer I guess before it blew the fuse once again smh lol, the inside of the PTO switch was melted on the hot side for the PTO wire smh, fucking thing caught fire last year and all the wiring is burnt up but I'm currently working on rewiring the whole POS smh
My switch has 8 Male tabs but only 7 slots that have metal contacts. Only 7 wires. Dont see an 8th anywhere not sure if that's normal. Scotts s2554
Thats normal to have some not being used. A big Snapper pro zero turn mower last week had the 8 terminals on the switch and only 3 of them in the middle were being used.
Great inforomation
Good video
Thank you you are very clear on you explanation
Great video 👍
Good vid!