Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Hotwiring a Cub Cadet, cub cadet key

Question
Hello Mr. Jones. I have lost the key to my Cub Cadet 1641 lawn mower. Could you tell me how to start it without the key? Thanks.

Answer
If you have a later model with a solenoid on the float bowl of the carburetor, you'll have to supply 12 volts to that.  You'll have to disconnect the kill wire from the speed control bracket and insulate it so it can't ground out.  Then all you have to do is jump from the battery side cable of the solenoid to the starter cable side. But, you won't be able to mow without power to the pto clutch.

Your key switch should either be an Indak key or a Delta key.  These are universal and most any hardware store should have them for a couple of dollars.  Also, any small engine shop or parts source can supply them if need be.  Thanks, PK.