How do you start a Craftsman lawn mower without a key?

Touch each connector with either end of a two-head screwdriver. Use a flat head screwdriver in lieu of the key. Place the screwdriver in the keyhole and wiggle it like a key, turning it. This method works on some Craftsman and Cub Cadet model riding mowers.

Also know, how do you start a lawn mower with a screwdriver?

Using a Screwdriver to Start the Mower

Use the screwdriver as the bridge mechanism instead of jumper cables. If the space between the two electrical posts to engage, the solenoid and the starter, sit very close to one another using the screwdriver as a bridge.
Use a flat head screwdriver in lieu of the key.

Also, what does a bad starter solenoid sound like? Our Expert Agrees: If your starter solenoid is bad, you may hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, or your vehicle may not have any power at all. Check the battery. Low power could result in the starter clicking but failing to engage.

Consequently, can you bypass ignition switch?

Bypassing a broken ignition switch is quite a technical procedure that will require a little more than just a manual and a keen sense of learning. The best case scenario is that you take your car to a professional to handle it or simply just replace the switch. Keep in mind Oznium does not sell ignition switches.

How do you bypass a starter?

How to Bypass the Starter Solenoid

Locate the starter motor under the vehicle.
Locate the two metal contacts on the back of the starter solenoid.
Place the metal blade of an insulated screwdriver across both metal contacts.
Get a friend to help you by turning on the ignition with the key.
Listen to the starter motor.

26 Related Question Answers Found

Can you roll start a lawn mower?

Some riding mowers can be push-started like a car with a manual transmission. I'll tell you how to do it, but keep in mind that this will only work on riding mowers that have a clutch. If you don't have a long, fairly steep hill on your property, you'll need a friend to push.

Can you start a lawn mower without a battery?

NOTE: Make sure you are on Neutral, LOCK your Brake and your Clutch. Some Lawn Mower will NOT start due to these safety Features including your Fuel Solenoid. If you don't have a Battery, use your Car's Battery or Truck etc Drive your Car close to your Lawn Mower and Jump it just like it's another Car :D.

Why does my riding mower clicks when I try to start it?

If the riding mower makes a heavy clicking or a rapid clattering sound when the key is turned to the start position, there is a problem with the battery or a part of the starting circuit. The clicking noise comes from a part called the starter solenoid. Low battery voltage - Battery needs charging or replacement.

How do I know if my lawn mower starter solenoid is bad?

First, turn the ignition key to the “On” position. Look for the large terminal posts on the solenoid where the thick red wires connect to the solenoid. Touch the metal shaft of a screwdriver to both of the large terminals at the same time. If the engine turns over and starts, the solenoid is bad and should be replaced.

Will a bad solenoid drain battery on lawn mower?

There's pretty much no way for a solenoid to drain the battery. All it does is make connection from the battery cable to the starter cable. You might just have a bad battery. Lawn mower batteries seldom last much more than 2 years.

What happens when you hook up a lawn mower battery backwards?

Usually when the battery is connected backwards, it will short out the charging system. I recommend connecting the battery up the way it should be and start it up. Once started use a meter to check the voltage at the battery. If the voltage is dropping, you will need to replace the charging stator.

How does a starter work on a lawn mower?

An engine, whether on a lawn mower or an automobile, needs a significant amount of power to start. The battery provides the engine's starter with power to engage the flywheel. The flywheel then turns the crankshaft to start the engine in motion. The starter solenoid is needed to engage the starter motor.

How do I know if my starter relay is bad?

Here are some symptoms of a bad or failing starter relay

Vehicle does not start.
Starter stays on after engine started.
Intermittent issues starting the vehicle.
Clicking sound coming from the starter.

How do I test my starter with jumper cables?

With the ignition turned off and the transmission in "park" -- and with all due care -- connect one end of the red/positive jumper cable to the positive terminal of the battery. Touch the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal on the starter motor. The starter should spin/crank the engine.

What do the letters mean on the back of an ignition switch?

The letters on the back of an ignition switch stand for the following: M = Magneto. S = Starter Solenoid. L = Lights. A = Accessory.