Need Help ASAP starting tractor

lrunge · Dec 23, 2004

Well, we got hit with anywhere from 8" to 24" of snow and Ice depending on where you live in the area. I got about 12" of snow crusted with ice. Unfortunately my son lost the key to my Kubota BX23 (Somewhere under the snow). The dealership is closed today. Nobody is getting around very well. Is there any way to start the BX23 without a key? It's cold so it will need the glow plugs to operate. I need to dig out my driveway.
Any help is appreciated.

Bob_Skurka · Dec 23, 2004

I don't know about the specifics of the BX series tractors, but I know many tractors have very simple keys that are interchangable. My New Holland tractor key fits perfectly in the my Kubota and visa versa. Both are simple blades with one indent on either side. IF you key is similar, you could probably make a spare key out of some scrap plastic, wood or metal by just cutting it to rough shape and fiddling around with it. I know I've started some old tractors with the tip of a screwdriver by rattling it around a bit.

lrunge · Dec 23, 2004

Thanks. I tried a bunch of different keys, Cub, Toro, DR but nothing would fit. I mistakenly said it was a BX23 but it is a BX22. It does not have all the safety engine kill switch when you are off the seat. I think I will try a series of small screwdrivers. It's supposed to go to -13 tomorrow night so I need to do what I can today.

Gatorboy · Dec 23, 2004

Sounds like you'll have to get out the shovel. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

lrunge · Dec 23, 2004

I did that this morning to get my daughter out to go to work. Even with 4WD it was a struggle. Plus the plows have built a wall across the drive. My back can't take to much of that.

rameye · Dec 23, 2004

whip out your sets of keys!

one of your keys is bound to turn the ignition...done it before in a pinch.

cj7 · Dec 23, 2004

Do you have a neighbor or friend that has a Kubota? Try the key from them.

rambler · Dec 23, 2004

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Sounds like you'll have to get out the shovel. /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif )</font>

I would hand the son the shovel.... Good lesson. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

--->Paul

AndyMA · Dec 23, 2004

When I ws with out the keys for my Ford 2120, I just undid a few screws and dropped the panel that the lock was mounted in. One jumper to turn the fuel selonoid on and another to start it. Took all of 5 minutes. Good luck

Andy