How to bypass the annoying backup safety button (with disclaimer) and make mowing faster and easier

This is specific to newer model John Deere riding mowers, but yours may be similar.

[carrotcake]

Definitely doing this! That button is so aggravating. So much nicer with the key By-pass setting. 😊

[smocknathan]

Thank you so much man... I just got mine and mowed one whole time before I was ready to send this thing back. lol

[jmanc]

Thank you for the how to! I find it unsafe myself with one hand on the steering wheel the other on the button and attempting to look around. This is a very helpful tip!

[mrgice]

Thanks for this, they should have an option to switch this off...ridiculous!

[MEEMOSS]

Just a little tip I learned the hard way with my new S100, don’t have the mower blades engaged when the deck is raised up to the 4” height. When the deck is raised all the way up to 4” the belt rests on the top of the deck. It rubbed the paint off the deck where the belt touched. The highest I go is 2 1/2-3”. I haven’t disabled my RIO switch just yet but I plan on doing so soon. I have 6 hours logged on mine

[Stubby]

Does the mower switch (PTO) work as normal just don't need to push it when backing up? Just got a X394 and found out about the annoying feature also if the brake is not set before dismounting the tractor shuts off.

[johnwyoder]

"My kids are grown, and my animals are smart enough to get out of the way." 😀. Same here. 👊

[rinnin]

Great tip. I’m hoping there’s a similar way to override the switch for the bag at the back so we can mow & “mulch” the stuff out the back without the bag & having to have a spare hand pressing the switch / sensor. A clamp would be preferable as my Dad would kill me if I cut some wires. Thanks again

[toddandangelbrowning]

Can you use a fuse into the plug without cutting wires?

[David-umhs]

Did the conversion. Works great. Thank!

[theweldenfamily]

Excellent - that feature is a PAIN - otherwise, I love the mower. Thanks!

[kevinleftridge]

I usually use a jumper wire, on my old John deere but on the new s 180 the mower would not crank using the jumper wire….

[wnymxj]

Makes it difficult to press, hold and look behind you when backing up.