Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 130 Blade Engagement, old john deere, engagement section

Question
I have a 20-year old John Deere 130 riding mower.  The blade engages intermittently - less and less over the past few uses, and now not really at all.  It seems to make more of a difference when I wiggle or play with the ignition switch and its connections, versus when I play with the blade engagement switch and its connections.  I removed the ignition switch.  Is there a way I can test whether the blade engagement "section" of the ignition switch is working correctly?  (the mower starts and runs fine otherwise).
Thanks,
Mike


Answer
Mike, I'm guessing the problem is with the 20 year old clutch not the wiring. Fiddling with the wires is just giving your clutch time to warm up.

On the clutch you will see 3 nuts around the perimiter. Above the nuts will be a triangular plate and some springs.  Turn each of these nuts 1/4 turn. No more, no less.  This should help. If it does buy a new PTO clutch. Your old one is done.  Bummer dude, You have to buy a PTO clutch every 20 years. What a piece of crap!  I guess you know, that was a joke.

When you replace the clutch (#AM122969, list price 105.00) I would definately replace the ignition switch (TCA15075, list 13.25)  and PTO switch (#AM101562, 21.99) also. They are 20 years old and are due, it will give you some piece of mind later down the road.