Very COMMON MTD Riding Lawnmower PROBLEM, WON'T START - Blade Engagement Safety Switch

[@2028end]

4:35 ... "Dudes, I gotta fire going on in there!!" hehe Best part! Glad nothing bad happened!

[@Crazy_D]

I liked when he tried to hold the lever back with his leg....NOPE!...LOL

[@sk2984]

Glad you left the fire in. It helps us stay mindful of potential problems welding on a machine like that. Thanks for sharing.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

The fire added a little excitement to the video LOL!

[@bruceboettcher9977]

Good point. Jeff also showed humility in sharing his oops. I believe humility is more important than skill or knowledge. Good job all around.

[@WROHRC]

Long story short . Bought a mtd off offer up for a few hundred bucks . It sat through our crazy Cali winter we had this year . Wouldn’t crank so came across your video and it was the same problem ! Thanks 🙏🏽

[@kenair601]

thanks Jeff: you saved me a lot of frustration. Could not get that tractor which was given to me to start.Went out next day and did what you said and away she went.thank you, thank you.

[@costoncheatham7025]

I had the same issue. I found that if I held the brake down hard, it would start. So I was really looking for a break adjustment when I searched and found your video. I tested it by applying the brake, pulling back on the blade engagement as you showed and trying to start. And it worked just as you said. I'm not sure if I have room enough to put a small bolt in there, but I can definitely find some type of spacer to work. Thanks for sharing.

[@costoncheatham7025]

So I ended up replacing my interlock switch (brake/clutch), but that was not the problem. It's definitely the PTO switch not engaging. When I pull back on it and start, it works fine, but I don't see what drilling holes did to help you move the blade engagement back. I wish the engagement bracket was slotted where it attaches to the mower frame. Otherwise, I don't know how you'd rotate the bracket back. You don't show beneath the bracket within your video, so it might be a little different than mine.

[@jonsmith6477]

Thank you for this video I've spent two plus weeks trying to fix my mower. Watched this and fixed it in 2 minutes

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Fantastic!

[@mtwseneca]

I'm just finishing a re-do on one of those, after seeing the wear on those parts I am going to put some grease there. I oil the snot out of everything that moves anyway, thanks for the vid. My first laugh of the morning was your fire episode.

[@SqueedManDan]

that fire and that hat! The video that keeps on giving!

[@brettcarson2590]

not sure if anyone gives a damn but if you guys are stoned like me atm then you can watch pretty much all of the new series on InstaFlixxer. I've been streaming with my girlfriend for the last couple of weeks :)

[@garyaxl5056]

@Brett Carson Yup, I have been watching on InstaFlixxer for months myself =)

[@mariaparra1765]

Great video! Had a good laugh also. Got the mower started with your tip. Wasn’t the battery after all.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Glad it helped

[@davidsteinfeld9123]

Holy dudes!! That is a real hot rod mower such a good thing the gas tank was far enough not to get involved nice repair

[@geneballay9590]

I have the same problem with my MTD, and today I am gonna try your suggestion. Thank you for postiing

[@piranhafranky]

Thanks I can’t wait till morning to see if this is my problem. I purchased a starter solenoid thinking that was bad and I replaced it and it still didn’t work. I this could be my problem with my mower. My blade engagement lever would just drop in its own when I would start the lawnmower.

[@Crazy_D]

I'm goin out first thing in the morning to try mine, tropical storm or not...LOL

[@kpswis9]

I wasn’t worried about the fire because you can fix it thanks for the video

[@narezdog]

GREAT video tip!! I have the exact same MTD. I just changed out my blades and belt and now the MTD will not go into any gear and feels sloppy and disconnected. Any help you could give would be much appreciated.

[@marklevy1564]

As the kids say, OMG, what a lifesaver. Thank you Jeff I will subscribe

[@fleetwin1]

Thanks for the tip. Is there any way to adjust the safety switch for the blade engagement? What exactly caught fire? Love the hat!

[@flamingsnowflake9288]

Thank you....easy fix and she's back running😊

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Good job!

[@marcoriverti3583]

good day! I have a 2001 mtd 650 tractor .. Can you tell me how to calibrate the blades? do you have a video about it? Thank you

[@aidenmyers7989]

We just got one of these it rides great it seems like a good mower is it?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

I think so

[@aidenmyers7989]

Jeff's Little Engine Service same thank u

[@knighthawk86855]

Now that's a handy dandy fix right there, thank you.

[@2028end]

@NuBz How else are you gonna fix the blade engagement safety switch?

[@robbyjones7631]

Check the valve adjustments and leakdown to check rings, valves, and head gaskets. Check the float bowl and replace the needle valve. If the compression is real low, the valve seat could've come loose. Replace the head. If the rockers are real loose, check the valve seat. Check the spindles and blades. The deck wheel bolts wear and and the wheel can come off.

[@motormouth2472]

Same thing happened to my MTD Tractor which is almost the same thing you have. I figured that's what the problem was. So I put something to push the lever back so that the tractor could start. Later, my dad and I messed with the wiring so that it could start even with the blade lever down.

[@Dragracingfan123]

I usually unhook the reverse switch on every mower I got. The blade lever having to be up doesn't bother me because it's less stress on the starter. But I hate having to pull up to put in reverse. So unhooking the reverse switch keeps you from having to do that

[@chippergarcia7473]

Jeff, I just started a rebuild on that exact MTD tractor as a project and for fun. Mine is so worn out there’s no model number to look up parts! Can you please tell me what the model of the red MTD is so I can buy new pulleys and parts from you!!

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Sorry I don't have it anymore

[@eddymumford4086]

check the single wire that goes to the back side of key it won't start if it's loose

[@alssmallengines]

My old lawn chief (MTD) does the same thing intermittently. Think I'll try that. But hopefully not set mine on 🔥...LOL j/k👍

[@alssmallengines]

Jordan Bronson Thanks for the info!

[@nickhawkins6601]

You just got a thumbs up for the fire reaction 😂😂

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol!

[@QuaabQueb]

Hey Jeff, wondering if you have any ideas on an old MTD tractor that wont crank after it's been running for a while. Bu no crank I mean the solenoid does not even engage or anything. I just replaced it, along with the key switch. It's as if something is getting hot after the machine has been running for a while, and does not want to pass power to the solenoid. Starts up right away from cold, carb, starter, battery everything checks good.

[@clauslundberg9224]

Nice simple fix - thanks for sharing

[@sagshan133]

My mtd started shooting gas out of the exhaust. Any tips on what it could be

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

a flooding carburetor. The carb needs cleaning and or rebuilt

[@mobservice7963]

Dobar dan da vas pitam imam istu ovakvu masinu,i problem je sa kosilicom ispod,non stop je upaljena i kada podignem ručicu na znak gašenja ona radi,da nema kakav dio da hvali,pošto ju davno nisam postavljao,hvala

[@bruceboettcher9977]

Okay. You can make this repair without commiting arson. Three years ago, I drilled a small hole near the trouble spot and screwed down a small washer that wouldn't let the engagement bar move too far forward. Since my wife is out on Ranch King right now, i can't include a photo, but you can figure it out. Best wishes.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

good tip!

[@1988TheGoods]

The best quotes from this video: "Just gonna see if I can use my leg there..." *while welding* "... Doin this with my eyes closed..." The guy is Red/Green 😂 Video was helpful, be safe!

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

LOL! I have been told I am a little Bob Ross mixed with Red Green or Tim the Toolman Taylor. Entertainment and educating is the goal of my videos! thanks for watching and the funny comment.

[@dougyrich]

The Mexican hat at the end hahaha🤣

[@tripyramidpictures9224]

I have the same MTD ….What kind of carburetor for this? Mine starts and runs, but stalls and quits as soon as it warms up.

[@Dingeraye1]

Very exciting!

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

LOL! I try

[@mikemackinnon5449]

Brilliant will go and try that with my mower after buying a new starter solenoid and battery lol but I think I leave the had that shocked me more than the fire

[@brandongalloway7895]

Nice video.i having trouble with blade disengaging with that style.blade true to turn while u trying to start it.any ideas

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

blade brakes may be worn out

[@brandongalloway7895]

@@JeffsLittleEngineService they didn't even touch the pulleys.adjusted deck some I try going up little higher thanks

[@AverageMaddenGuy]

Thank you brother

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Happy to help

[@Maik1968]

The hat 🎩 is amazing 😂

[@watermanone7567]

Good fix Jeff: What kind of a welder do you use? I need a new one for small jobs and would like to see what you used. Thanks

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

It's a Lincoln Pro Mig 140. Cost about $500

[@kenmartin613]

Good vid thanks, I will try tmrw. Battery should be disconnected when welding

[@TheWaterman1000]

My choke is stuck and won't pull out to help start my mtd costco mower. I have the hood off and now looking to pull the front off to get at the carb. Any checks I can do before pulling more parts?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Unfortunately it may need a new cable. Fortunately, they are not expensive

[@robreynolds5034]

Can I please get the md# to that mower. My tag is missing can’t find parts and documents. Thank you in advance. Rob

[@billyfearon941]

Is there an oil filter on these old tractors?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

nope

[@billyfearon941]

@@JeffsLittleEngineService Thank you for coming back to me with the answer have a great day

[@paulrevere4749]

Question: what is the best way to bypass that switch that lever depresses when it's all the way back? I want to cut the wires because my lever is completely shot. Does that switch connect the same colors together, or does it connect opposing colors?

[@paulrevere4749]

I want to make a toggle switch blade shut off.

[@2028end]

@@paulrevere4749 Did you do it?

[@smokine2001]

small hose clamp works great

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

good tip

[@TheTaR16]

I got a yard machine that is exactly like your MTD. Mine will start and run but if I engage the blade lever it dies. But if I'm in reverse it stays running. But like I said if it's in forward it dies. Any ideas I need help? Iv checked for something blocking blade, cleaned the carriage. Belts are ok, clutch too.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

one of the safety switches may be bad

[@y.d.343]

I have a mtd task force model 130-651f062/95185 and i cant find a bagger that fits.

[@barjhealy]

Great video Jeff

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Thanks friend!

[@shawnlanders2034]

That hat cracked me up. I spewed water across the room

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol

[@doctorstrangelove8587]

Anybody has the idea what is the model number on this machine?

[@Tmask32]

An easier way to fix this is to adjust the linkage. You can access this by removing the shift lever cover plate

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

good tip

[@philliphall5198]

That’s two simple and you can’t make a hour long video of noise and waste time

[@RichardGoff-eg8wf]

I just shimmed up the safety switch that that lever makes contact with.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Great tip!

[@joegallagher9167]

Does ur starter req 2 washers on then bolts to line up the teeth to fly wherl

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

no

[@joegallagher9167]

I had to put two washers on the stater facing the moter the the starter then the bolts that's the way it came off so I tryed without the washers to close tryed with washers after the starter still two close so I put washer the way they came off back and it starts just fine again

[@petercoughlan103]

Your as rough as Toast but I love it . Simple fix

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol!

[@Shawn-bk8qc]

I died a little inside watching that decal burn.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol!

[@sweetlou5902]

Thanks for the tip and the laugh!

[@CivilRepair]

Any idea what to do if the engine seems locked? It turns 1/4 inch but hits something and stops. I pulled the spark plug already.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Dangman that sounds like a broken rod or maybe the flywheel is hitting the coil or something

[@CivilRepair]

@@JeffsLittleEngineService ok I'll investigate more. It sucks cuz everything else is great.

[@ronduck2812]

Fire fighter video 🔥👌

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol!

[@jrsmowerrepairandlawncare4179]

Nice hat man!

[@eddymumford4086]

that mower setup is so dangerous.. keep your feet away at all times

[@terryhollingsworth]

For a quick fix, I would put a zip tie or two to fill the worn gap.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

That might work!

[@theoriginalwiser5059]

Wooooooow sa marche/ its work j’ai juste jouer avec le bras sans soudure pour ma part merci /thank

[@dennistoft3005]

What will cause my engine not to start but it cranks but it's not getting pressure to the engine what will cause that and how can I fix that problem before I take the next step into putting it into a shop

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

check for spark, fuel and compression

[@choppergirl]

I cut another notch further back with an alluminum oxide wheel.

[@sgtkrazykramer]

Gandalf left Middle Earth to come fix lawn mowers haha LOL

[@cliffandrews]

You're too funny.......keep up the good work.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Thanks Cliff. I try to make my videos as entertaining as possible.

[@Crazy_D]

@@JeffsLittleEngineService I'm pretty sure that fire was without even tryin'...lol...btw, love the hat, I want one!...i wear an old dilapidated straw hat.

[@hsv_hunter]

Funny as , dam I have a 🔥 fire using water to put it out. Hahahahaha

[@jameshedrick6839]

I just had to do the same on mine last year

[@toddytwotones2905]

😂 that had me in tears

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

YES! LOL mission accomplished

[@TheWaterman1000]

Dam choke won't pull out. Any simple cks?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Probably needs a new choke cable

[@levicave4473]

I would bypass the safety before all that.

[@Turner2503]

I need a hat like that. I bet the neighbors would get a kick out of that.

[@Crazy_D]

me too!

[@chinaeastaroutdoorpower5122]

NICE

[@jamesal-hamadani221]

Thx man mine does the same thing! i will try that once i get home... You are funny tho lol

[@SF-fm7ov]

or your can adjust the switch so it engages sooner.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

some are adjustable I don't believe this one was.

[@Marc-Vickers]

My deck won't drop enough to engage blades. What's up?

[@D4x4Bronc]

Why did everyone hate these mowers with the big hump in the middle? Everyone said back in the day they were crap.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

i like em but a little more difficult to work on than a Craftsman

[@XtoriezNovel]

My mower starts and moves forward until the blades are engaged. Then the engine still runs but the mower won't move. Any suggestions?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

something is fucky, maybe the belts are not routed correctly or it's the wrong belt or maybe on the wrong pulley?

[@k.z.bofficalpage5267]

Seat switch vid

[@ignacioreyes986]

Hi im have one the same but my blades dont turn off when im put the blades off sthill on

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

The blade pulley brakes may need replacing

[@miguelangelvalderrama1808]

Where did you buy that hat?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

Mexico

[@philliphall5198]

I have a water hose and spray end on it, I turn water on every morning when I open shop Can’t be too safe folks

[@bobbysmith4538]

How do I change oil on a mtd riding mower that has the square plug

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

I think it is a 1/2 wrench or a 7/16

[@johncitizen3927]

ya really can't figure that out !????????

[@jimmycarter9099]

Cable tie easy fix

[@mercedesbritton2145]

Would the engine just crank beforehand and not fire, i have replaced the carb on my huskee and it still just cranks unless I spray fuel into the intake then it dies, new spark plug, new carb, and the carb is getting fuel because the bowl is full but it has an electric solenoid so idk, thanks

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

sounds like the carburetor is plugged. If it is a cheap aftermaket carburetor it may be failing already. They are crap.

[@carolynshealy8740]

Mine put on new starter and voltage regulator and key start and now I have nothing won't turn over nothing just sitting there any ideas.

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

check Ignition switch, solenoid, safety switches, battery

[@jb3thegreatest623]

I can’t find a voltage regulator for mine

[@jb3thegreatest623]

Apparently the VR on mine had never been seen before

[@daltonhayes3694]

My mtd clicks over but stops after a second idk what to do

[@crisprtalk6963]

How the hell does a Montgomery Ward tractor still exist!?

[@carolynboland7261]

my deck shakes a lot, what causes that ?

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

bent blades or a damaged belt

[@wvwkndr79s]

Mine shakes because of bad spindle bearings

[@yinkasantacruz6708]

When he opened the hood I thought oh he’s about to connect the battery for it to start until he mentioned fire then I realized he wasn’t bluffing

[@balconyweeps447]

love the hat

[@Jsalrulz]

Fire is good for it.

[@heathertennant1560]

would you sell montgomery

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

yes it is for sale $400.00

[@garybullock1422]

NICE HAT DID YOU GET A FREE BOWL OF SOUP WITH IT !!!

[@RealLifeSnowWhite]

This unfortunately didn’t help me out. Think it’s just time to go get a new mower on my end lol thanks!!

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

check the drive belt

[@gungadinn]

Government safety mandates cause more waste than save limbs or lives. The previous owner probably junked that machine because they ran out of ideas to find the problem. Same for the switch that cuts the engine if the blade is engaged and you shift into reverse. Hello, I need to be able to back up and mow at the same time. I'm the one one operating my equipment and as such, all of the interlocks get bypassed. If I don't want it to start or run, I can disconnect the battery or pull the plug wire.

[@rafaymago1]

😰😰😰😰 no welding helmet, is not worth it, speedy Gonzales, andale andale with the hose the fire is growing señor!!!!

[@JeffsLittleEngineService]

lol!

[@jacksonsinflatablechannel]

cool

[@williamfris3835]

The big burrito!

[@pakoroutube]

You nearly had a "fire sale"..... My regards to the chicks.