Why wont my mower back up right anymore?

Question

John Deere L111

it has a lil yellow safety button that makes it so u can back up while the blade is going. if u dont push it it kills ur engine. now it doesnt matter if i push it, it kills it pushed or not.

my dad thinks its a short or something? how do i fix it?

Answer 1

From your description I assume its an electric switch you push.  If so it does sound like either its defective or the wires popped off.  Try touching them together when you want to back up, or remove them so you can, depending on the type of switch.

Answer 2

The button is a kill switch override. Find the safety switch which should be near the shift lever usually under the fender. Disconnect it and leave it hang there and you shoud be all set.