This DIY riding mower repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for replacing the seat switch on most riding lawn mowers. The seat switch is a safety device that shuts off the engine if it doesn't detect someone in the seat when the tractor starts moving. If the seat switch breaks, it won’t sense that you’re in the seat and will stop the engine when you release the brake. Replace a broken seat switch on your lawn tractor with a manufacturer-approved replacement part if it's defective.
Use this repair procedure to replace the seat switch in Craftsman, MTD, Troybilt, Husqvarna, Murray, Snapper, Cub Cadet and Ariens lawn tractors and riding mowers.
If you’re not sure the seat switch is the problem, follow the steps in this troubleshooting video to test the seat switch.
This video explains how to replace the seat switch on a riding lawn mower.
Instructions
- 01.
Disconnect the battery
Park the tractor on a level surface and set the parking brake.
Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key.
Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
Lift the seat.
Remove the bolt connecting the negative cable to the battery and tuck the cable away from the battery so it doesn't touch the battery post.
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- 02.
Remove the seat
Remove the retaining bolt and washer from the seat bottom.
Press the seat adjustment lever and slide the seat fully forward.
Release the locking tab and pull the seat off the bracket while supporting the seat adjustment lever.
Remove the seat adjustment lever.
Remove the seat mounting bolt.
- 03.
Remove the old seat switch
Disconnect the wire harness from the seat switch.
Rotate the seat switch counterclockwise to release it and pull it off the seat.
Rotate the seat switch counterclockwise to release it.
- 04.
Install the new seat switch
Push the new seat switch into the seat bottom and rotate the switch clockwise to lock it in place.
Connect the wire harness to the switch.
Connect the seat switch wire harness.
- 05.
Reinstall the seat
Reinstall the adjustment lever and support it while you snap the seat back into the bracket.
Reinstall the retaining bolt and washer.
Reinstall the adjustment lever.
- 06.
Reconnect the battery
Reconnect the negative cable to the negative battery terminal.
Lower the seat.
Symptoms common to all riding mowers & tractors
Repair guides common to all riding mowers & tractors
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your riding mower or lawn tractor.
Get your mower running smoothly again by replacing the air filter—it's a quick job you can do yourself, following these steps.
If you hear the solenoid click but don’t hear the starter motor spin when you turn the key, follow these steps to replace it.
If a blade on your mower is dull or bent, replace it following the steps in this repair guide.
Articles and videos common to all riding mowers & tractors
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your riding mower or lawn tractor.
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