Key won't turn in Ignition

   / Key won't turn in Ignition #1  

mluraski

New member
Joined
Jun 29, 2017
Messages
6
Location
Helena, MT
Tractor
650 John Deere
I stopped working and turned the key off and when I tried to start it the key wouldn't turn in the ignition. Called J D and they said we had a dead battery. Replaced battery and it still won't turn
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #2  
If the key won't turn the switch, that has nothing to do with a battery.
You could try spraying it with something like WD40, or do what I did on my 850, and replace the switch. Worked fine after that.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #3  
In other words the key is "stuck" and won't turn? Confused why the dealer would suggest a battery for that, has to be more to the story. What model tractor is it?
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #4  
mularski
:welcome: to TBN

Stick with us, and we'll give you some better help than the dealer.. but suspect the new battery response was based on thinking the wrong thing.

If lubricant won't work to get the ignition key to turn, then a replacement as suggested may be in order.

Is the tractor stored outside, or been under cover? May just be some corrosion, but you can identify that better than we can.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition
  • Thread Starter
#5  
In other words the key is "stuck" and won't turn? Confused why the dealer would suggest a battery for that, has to be more to the story. What model tractor is it?

The key will come out of the ignition it just won't turn to start the tractor. The battery was really old but I can't see what that would have to do with the key turning. It is a 650 John Deere
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition
  • Thread Starter
#6  
The tractor is under cover in the winter, but outside a lot in the summer.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #7  
Ok, spray some liquid wrench, PB blaster or similar into the key switch. See if you can gently work it loose. Leave it soak a day or two. If not, then you'll need a new key switch.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #8  
Make a Car Ignition Lock work super smooth - YouTube
Video for ignition switch spray lubricant▶ 3:32
Make a Car Ignition Lock work super smooth - YouTube

I had this problem on my tractor...though the key would turn it wouldn't start. Went to autozone and got some electric cleaner spray...no more problems !
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #9  
I don't know about the tractor, but in a vehicle with a steering wheel lock, if you can't turn the key, it could be because the steering wheel is pressing against it. Just turn the steering wheel a little and try turning the key again. I don't know of a tractor with a steering wheel lock so I don't think this is your problem, just tossing it out there incase it inspires some one with the right answer.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #10  
After the oil up you could use air to blow it into the lock. Not required with WD40.

Might polish up the key with some steel wool.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #11  
Lots of good suggestions OR just spend a few bucks, replace the ignition switch and be done.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #12  
If one of the tumblers in the ignition lock has broken or jammed, the key will not turn the lock.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition
  • Thread Starter
#13  
After the oil up you could use air to blow it into the lock. Not required with WD40.

Might polish up the key with some steel wool.

WD40, It worked
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition
  • Thread Starter
#14  
Thank you all..... You really saved me. WD40. Sprayed it this morning, it didn't do anything. My husband walked by it this evening and reach over and turned the key and it started right off. So glad to have my tractor back.
 
   / Key won't turn in Ignition #15  
I believe the dealers response regarding 'replacing the battery' was due to them misunderstanding as "key not turning the engine over." That is partly their fault for not asking enough of the right questions to fully comprehend your issue.

Now, WD40 is not a long-term remedy for your ignition switch. Force some di-electric grease (or petroleum jelly) into the switch and insert the key. Do this a few times to lubricate the tumblers.

If your tractor is stored outside make sure rain cannot fall on the switch as it will dribble down the key and into the switch causing a recurrence of the problem.

Depending on your location and dealer proximity it would be worth buying a new switch assembly and having it on the shelf in case the problem returns. You now know you have a suspect switch which will need replacement sometime. Buy 2 x new keys at the same time. (Worn keys can ruin a new switch.)

:wrench:
 
Last edited:
   / Key won't turn in Ignition
  • Thread Starter
#16  
Thank you good suggestions. I appreciate it.
 

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