jdx4 special ignition switch

[cmpearce]

1974 jdx4 special- runs terrific. was given to me by my dad ( original owner) about 10 years ago. my issue is the ignition switch. he said after starting with electric start to turn the key back to run before riding. the switch has 4 spots, off, run, start, then turn to engage electric start. after engaging electric start the key snaps back to the start position. problem is when running in the "start" position there is 20 volts running to headlight and blowing out headlights. when i turn key to run after starting i have a steady 14 volts ( just replaced regulator).my operators manual says it should snap back to "run" after starting. I thought there must be something wrong with switch so i bought new one , same results. I thought i may have bought a bad switch but it is new. any advice, opinions or smart remarks welcome. thanks

[JDT]

The correct switch would have three positions...OFF - RUN - Start.

Other brands used switches that had off, run, lights, start.

So someone replaced the original switch with the incorrect one and than wired it differently so that the regular is only in circuit in the Run Position.

You can continue to use it as it is as long as you return it to run after you start it.
But it is not correct.

[cmpearce]

my dad was the original owner ( bought new)and he said he never replaced it but i will ask him again. the switch i bought said it was made for a jdx4 with electric start. it has 5 terminals on the back of switch. i have looked for one with 5 terminals on back and 3 positions for key. no luck

[cmpearce]

if you happen to know the correct switch number for this sled please post before my kids blow out the head lights.

[JDT]

You may still be able to get this switch from Deere as it has may uses.

It is a very common item and Auto parts stores may have them also.

OFF-Run and a spring loaded return to start position with two keys and five contact blades on the back.

[cmpearce]

i talk to my dad tonight and he said that was the original switch and he never understood why they put it on. i seen a switch for john deere garden tractors with the 5 terminals on back and a 3 position switch

[Steven Rempel]

I have a x4 special, and many parts. If you have not found one yet let me know I am sure I have a few that are correct for this model.

[cmpearce]

i would be interested in an ignition switch. please check to see if it is a 3 position switch. my jdx4 special came from factory with electric start. let me know how much you want for it. thanks. I tried to PM you but i don't think it went through.

[Steven Rempel]

I will get back to you late tomorrow with what I have. I will match it up to my x4 special which also have factory Estart and send you some pics.

[Steven Rempel]

here are the pics as promised, I send a PM for your review

[cmpearce]

sorry i didnt get back to you sooner. i work shift work and we lost all our snow about a month ago so i forgot about the sleds. i would like to buy the switch. i sent you a PM

[Steven Rempel]

PM sent with details

[cmpearce]

got the switch yesterday in the mail. thanks. it works but now it is letting over 17 volts to the lights and i just changed the volt regulator. we lost all our snow this year and i don't think i'll be running the sled this year. if next year it blows the lights out (probably will with that much volts) then i'll switch back to the switch i had in it. thanks for selling me the switch.