Problem with mower

[enfield]

This just suddenly happened. While mowing with my JD lawn tractor yesterday, I found that pressing the RIO button (allows you to back up with the blades turning), the blades & engine slowed. When I disengaged the blade clutch so I could back up, it wouldn't re-engage unless I parked, got off and pulled on the blade belt and rotated the clutch and blades a partial turn. I had to finish mowing without backing up, which was a bit of a major pain.

Does this sound like a clutch problem or a deck problem?

[buck1032]

You had to pull the deck belt? Has the deck and mower well maintained, as in proper servicing? Possible bearings going out on the deck. And depending on what the mower is doing it may be fuel filter clogged. Keep in mind these are stabs in the dark, Good luck.

[Ugly]

Since it happens in the "safety" system to cut in reverse I would suspect that one of the components are the issue. It could be deck bearings but I don't think it's likely since the blades don't change direction and the load on the machine in reverse is usually less than forward.

See if you can bypass the reverse cut system and check operation from there.

I've got 3 mowers and none have the backup lockout issue because they don't have them installed.

I'm guessing it's some sort of government safety nazi mandate. Purpose? Makes no sense to me.
Most of the failures I've had in my mowers have been"safety" switches that will leave you stranded. I've bypassed what has failed or given me problems and have only replaced the ones that are cheap.

A schematic will help troubleshoot the system and address each conponent one by one until either it works or you've eliminated it as the culprit.

[cannoncocker]

What model?  I have a service manual for the LA100 series.  Feel free to PM me if you wish.

[xsubsailor]

 It sounds like your clutch plate might have uneven wear. If it has adjusting bolts, you might try tightening them in 1/8- 1/4 turn. (Too tight, and it might not disengage).

 

I don't have a JD but I had a similar problem with my Kobota.

[runco]

electric switch?

[cannoncocker]

electric switch?

 

If the control circuit is anything like the 140/150 it may very well be an electrical problem:

 

LA140/LA150

Function:

To provide a safety interlock when the machine is being

operated in reverse while the PTO is engaged, by providing

a ground path to be used by either the ignition coil to

shutoff the engine, or the RIO latch relay to keep the engine

running. An operator who deems it necessary, and chooses

to keep the PTO engaged while backing up, must take a

deliberate action to actuate the RIS switch, by pressing the

button momentarily while pressing the reverse pedal.

 

RIO Operating Conditions:

The key switch must be in the run position, engine running,

the operator must be on the seat, the PTO engaged, and

the RIS switch must be pressed (momentary) while starting

operation in reverse.

 

Theory of Operation:

The Reverse Implement Option (RIO) is controlled by a

relay and two switches wired in a circuit with the ignition

coil. This combination of components provide for control of

three different functional situations:

 

• PTO off with any drive function.

• PTO on and operating in reverse without activating the

RIO circuit.

• PTO on and operating in reverse while activating the

RIO circuit cont.....

[Ugly]

If the control circuit is anything like the 140/150 it may very well be an electrical problem:

LA140/LA150
Function:
To provide a safety interlock when the machine is being
operated in reverse while the PTO is engaged, by providing
a ground path to be used by either the ignition coil to
shutoff the engine, or the RIO latch relay to keep the engine
running. An operator who deems it necessary, and chooses
to keep the PTO engaged while backing up, must take a
deliberate action to actuate the RIS switch, by pressing the
button momentarily while pressing the reverse pedal.

RIO Operating Conditions:
The key switch must be in the run position, engine running,
the operator must be on the seat, the PTO engaged, and
the RIS switch must be pressed (momentary) while starting
operation in reverse.

Theory of Operation:
The Reverse Implement Option (RIO) is controlled by a
relay and two switches wired in a circuit with the ignition
coil. This combination of components provide for control of
three different functional situations:

• PTO off with any drive function.
• PTO on and operating in reverse without activating the
RIO circuit.
• PTO on and operating in reverse while activating the
RIO circuit cont.....

Sounds like too many reasons for failure to me.
Bypass!

[enfield]

Thanks guys! The mower is running again just like it has for the last 6 years. The electrical connector on the RIO button had vibrated loose. Reseated it and all is well!

Glad I posted the question instead of pulling the deck!