Neutral lock switch cuts off 340 engine

[hmcdonough]

Yesterday, I started the Kubota diesel engine on my Hustler 340. Everything ran well until I lifted the neutral lock braces to free the steering controls. The safety cutoff button popped up correctly but immediately threw the shut-off solenoid and the engine shut down. The engine would run if I kept my finger on the button (allowing me to return it to the garage).

What is causing this and what is my repair solution?

Thanks.

[mowerconsultant]

The likely reason that would be happening is if the unit thinks your not in the seat, that is the only thing ties into that circuit.
Your going to need to check the seat switch and the wires going to it, trace them back into the harness and then trace them to the neutral switch also.

Pj

[hmcdonough]

Thanks, but a mechanic had disconnected the dead man' seat switch before I bought the machine. The neutral lock switch was not disconnected. This recent problem first exhibited by allowing the machine to start but not move if the neutral lock bar was raised allowing the switch button to pop up, the fuel cutoff solenoid to throw and the engine to cut out. After a day of that, it would not even start, only turn the engine over without catching. I tried replacing the neutral lock switch, but no change.

So, I have to have the machine taken to the mechanic. However, they want me to release the hydraulics so that the stalled machine can be winched onto their trailer.

How do I prepare the 340 to be towed/winched so that the hydraulic pumps are not damaged? Many thanks.

[mowerconsultant]

There is a way to tow it, you have to release the high pressure valves to do so, you use a 5/16 allen wrench and they are on the top of the pump.
Email me and I will email you the owners manual, it shows how to release the valves.

Pj