[BenDodge]

Hello - Just picked up a 2000 335 with a 48 inch deck. Everything was great until yesterday. The mower deck will not disengage using the switch. I have to shut the engine off completely and then it will disengage. Hopefully just a PTO switch but would love to hear your thoughts!

 

[RalphVa]

Try jiggling the switch. If this makes it come on, its a switch problem. Happened on the 2025R.

 

[BenDodge]

Thanks. i'll give it a shot. I did take the switch out, cleaned the contacts and put it back in but there was no jiggling involved. I'll let you know how I make out.

 

[BenDodge]

Well...the new switch went in this weekend and didn't change anything. Still not shutting the PTO off.

 

[rydplrs]

I would double check the airgap on the pto, maybe it’s uneven and causing binding.

 

[flyweight]

I would double check the airgap on the pto, maybe it’s uneven and causing binding.

I agree with rydplrs. Check the air-gap first.
I think the gap is supposed to be 0.015 - 0.018, but you may want to verify that.
With the engine shut off and PTO switch dis-engaged, use a feller-gauge to check the air-gap at the location of the red arrow. Air-gap is adjusted by turning the 3 retaining nut in or out.

If that doesn't work, the contact plate may also be warped. That would mean replacing the electric clutch.

 

[BenDodge]

Thank you very much for the advice. I had no idea there was an air gap, nevermind that it could need adjusting.