GC1700 sub compact neutral switch wont allow starter to go

gtbread · Feb 14, 2021

I am usually just a looker this is my 1st post Ive had this problem off and on for a while the switch? that tells the ignition that its in neutral has been acting up (I had it narrowed down this fall)and now it wont let me start the tractor .tried some wiggling and such to no avail .now its sitting out in the driveway dead .Wondering if there's a bypass ? or how to fix / replace it .when I look up neutral switch it gives me the threaded switch for the transmission.This is a plastic assembly under the right it is under the right side of the seat and is actuated by the High Low neutral lever .any help would be appreciated. Thanks David

DMW · Feb 14, 2021

There is nothing interfering with the switch?

CobyRupert · Feb 14, 2021

Does plastic assembly have a connection that you can unplug from the wires that go to it?
Do just 2 wires go to switch? If so, this would indicate it’s a single pole switch. That is, switch just opens and closes a connection between the 2 wires depending on shift lever position. Typically, switch might be Normally Open and then Close when the tractor is in neutral, completing the connection between the 2 wires and satisfying the interlock. If so, manually jumpering the wires temporarily would bypass the switch and satisfy the interlock enough to get it off the driveway.
Now if more than 2 wires go to switch, or more complicated, all bets are off.

gtbread · Feb 14, 2021

Thanks that is the switch,,, we can see the switch it is being moved by the lever and it has done this in the past I wiggled it and it worked alright for a few months,now of course today when we wanted to push snow it quits .

gtbread · Feb 14, 2021

I think it does have a connection but its behind and hard to see I can get to the screws and remove it I think Its dark out now and below 0 so I will check it out in the morning ,Thank you Cody ,David

WranglerX · Feb 14, 2021

CobyRupert said:
Does plastic assembly have a connection that you can unplug from the wires that go to it?
Do just 2 wires go to switch? If so, this would indicate it’s a single pole switch. That is, switch just opens and closes a connection between the 2 wires depending on shift lever position. Typically, switch might be Normally Open and then Close when the tractor is in neutral, completing the connection between the 2 wires and satisfying the interlock. If so, manually jumpering the wires temporarily would bypass the switch and satisfy the interlock enough to get it off the driveway.
Now if more than 2 wires go to switch, or more complicated, all bets are off.

My thought also...

Dale

lpakiz · Feb 15, 2021

As one who has bypassed many a neutral start switch, I concur. But first, wiggle the plug and the switch lever to see if it is a matter of poor connection or improper position of the activating lever.
If the tractor still does not start when in neutral, simply unplug it and try again. If it still does not start, connect the two wire terminals (coming from the tractor harness end, not the switch end) to simulate a closed switch. A U shaped piece of wire works. Even a paper clip, with half of it cut off, works. Make sure you are sitting in the seat, clutch depressed, PTO lever in neutral, etc. and that all other starting requirements are met.
Make sure the bare jumper does not touch anything metal.
If this works, be careful, as it can and will start while in gear! Then get a new switch!
If you can access the starter itself, you can jumper the starter solenoid in the same manner. Again, Make SURE it is in neutral, brakes set, etc. so it can’t move if and when it does start.

CobyRupert · Feb 15, 2021

The mower at my mom’s still has a piece of cardboard taped to the shift lever (hydro level actually) so that lever “more engages” the neutral switch better. A “temporary” fix I put on it about 6 years ago.

Should adjust the switch position or jumper it out.....one of these days.
But if OP can see switch, maybe taking a screwdriver to “more engage” switch, if wiggling lever doesn’t help, might work to get tractor out of driveway.

Dmacleo · Feb 15, 2021

just changed mine on my 2010 gc2400 its 4 pin setup (inside 6 pin connector) and the connector is a PAIN to get at. had to loosen all shift linkage, etc to do it.
remember that also integrates with the seat switch.
what I had to do (since my plastic tab broke off) was hold start on key and move switch until I heard engagement then superglue switch into that position to get me home and by a few days.
for gc2400 its massey # 4267281M91 and cost 75$.
the 1700 looks to take same range safety switch per parts book.