PTO not engaging properly - Snowblower attachment

[Hendrick]

Hello, I just installed a John Deere 47" snowblower attachment onto my x495 diesel mower and am having issues with the PTO engaging. It worked fine with the mower deck on but now will only engage when I hold the switch all the way up. If I just toggle it nothing happens. I tried replacing the switch with a new one but the same issue occurred. Also, the reverse safety feature was disabled (allowing for mowing in reverse) when I purchased the mower.

Any insight into what could be the issue would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[frencht]

Hendrick,
If I had one guess, it would be one or more wires going to the RIO (reverse safety switch...underneath and against the inside of the frame below your right foot when seated) is the culprit. The previous owner disabled my RIO switch by putting a wire tie around the switch and actuator. My wife mowed some heavy grass one time and I think a milkweed stalk caught the wires and removed one or both from the switch and I seem to recall the PTO working as you described afterwards....in your case, it could have happened when the mower deck was removed as well? Again just a hunch at this point....
Tim

 

[XSKIER]

Perhaps the wire used to jump the reverse switch has corroded? I suggest to check that first. Second check the PTO switch itself. Also, PTO will not operate with the brake applied (normally).

 

[beenthere]

To Hendrick and to frencht :welcome:

Looking forward to hearing more from you both. I would think both responses to the OP are getting at the problem and may take some detective work to find it. At least getting a look at the RIO switch is easier now that the deck is off.

Let us know if you find it and if you get the problem solved.