Mower PTO switch or PTO clutch?

AI Answer.


To test your PTO switch and clutch, check the battery voltage and use a multimeter to test the PTO switch for continuity when engaged. If the switch passes, use jumper wires to apply power directly from the battery to the PTO clutch's wires to see if it clicks and engages. If the switch is bad, replace it, but if the clutch doesn't respond to direct power, the clutch itself is likely faulty. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]


1. Safety First! [2]
  • Disconnect the battery: before you start inspecting any components to prevent electrical shock.
2. Check the Battery and Wiring [1, 6]
  • Test battery voltage: with a multimeter to ensure it's sufficient to power the PTO. [1]
  • Inspect wiring harnesses: for the PTO clutch for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections. [2, 4]
3. Test the PTO Switch [2, 4]
Disconnect the battery:
again for safety before proceeding.
Use a multimeter:
set to the continuity or resistance setting to test the switch.
Test for continuity:
between the switch's terminals when the switch is in the "engaged" (on) position.
If you find no continuity,
the switch is faulty and should be replaced.
This video demonstrates how to test a riding mower's PTO switch:
4. Test the PTO Clutch
Reconnect the battery:
and turn the key to the "run" position. [7]
Listen:
for a click from the clutch when you try to engage the PTO switch. [7]
If you hear a click,
there is power reaching the clutch. If not, the switch is bad or there's a wiring issue. [7]
If the clutch isn't getting power,
disconnect the battery again. [2]
Use jumper wires:
to apply power directly from the battery to the PTO clutch's electrical connector. [3]
If the clutch clicks and engages:
when receiving power, the switch and wiring are likely fine, and the issue could be a faulty safety switch. [3]
If the clutch still doesn't engage:
when directly powered, the electric PTO clutch itself is faulty and needs to be replaced. [3, 8, 9]

AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.justanswer.com/small-engine/2lvjl-battery-low-charge-will-effect-pto-make.html
[2] https://www.justanswer.com/small-engine/7kset-test-pto-switch-elimiate-source.html
[3] https://www.justanswer.com/small-engine/jbsa1-mower-deck-will-not-ingage-when-pull-button-xt-2.html
[4] https://www.justanswer.com/small-engine/99nzb-pto-switch-won-t-engage-mower-running.html
[5] https://www.oxclutch.com/blogs/news/how-to-identify-a-failing-pto-clutch
[6] https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View...l+not+engage+when+the+PTO+switch+is+turned+on
[7] https://www.justanswer.com/small-en...-fine-last-week-blades-wont-engage-rider.html
[8] https://www.evergladesfarmequipment.com/blog/lawn-mower-repair-the-how-to-guide-to-fixing-it-yourself/
[9] https://www.oxclutch.com/blogs/news/how-to-identify-a-failing-pto-clutch
 
Your best bet is to ask the question on a tractor forum.
First thing I would do, check that the battery has at least 13.2 volts while running. If the alternator is not charging the battery, the clutch will quit. The battery has to has at least 12.3 volts resting.
Next you have to see if said voltage is getting to the clutch by testing at the wire terminal.
Next check to see if voltage is getting to the clutch switch.
You could also have an issue with the safety switches. Many times, the seat switch is the culprit, but not always.
 

One thing to add is that the engine does not need to be running for these checks. Set the parking brake and have the ignition switch in the run position. The clutch will pull in even without the engine running.
The engine only needs to run to check for alternator voltage.
 
I found this video for checking a switch like mine. My switch is bad! Ordered another on Amazon.
 

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