Removing 2009 X728 key switch

mikefamig · Sep 30, 2016

Has anyone here removed an ignition switch from a 2009 X728 Deere tractor? You can not simply reach behind the control panel and unscrew the switch because the gauge cluster and other stuff makes it impossible to get to the back of the switch.

I think that maybe the gauge cluster needs to be removed first but would rather hear from someone who has done the job rather than to start removing parts.

TIA, Mike.

mikefamig · Sep 30, 2016

Re: Removing X728 key switch

I should add that I have the service manual for the machine and on page 219 it says that in order to test the ignition switch you should open the hood and remove the storage tray. Problem is that I have no idea what they mean by storage tray.

the machine is a 2009 model year.

Mike.

beenthere · Sep 30, 2016

Re: Removing X728 key switch

Appears there is a ring nut that keeps the ignition switch in place, removed from under a boot that covers the switch.

Still need access behind the "firewall" and may have to remove the cluster to do that. Don't know for sure.. But good luck.

mikefamig · Oct 10, 2016

Re: Removing X728 key switch

Just bumping this for a little more attention. Hoping that someone has had to get to the back of the ignition switch on one of these machines in the past.

Mike.

Natureboy · Oct 31, 2016

Re: Removing X728 key switch

mikefamig said:
Just bumping this for a little more attention. Hoping that someone has had to get to the back of the ignition switch on one of these machines in the past.

Mike.

Had to do that today. I have a 2007 X728 so I assume its pretty much the same. Remove the 2 Phillips head screws, one on each side of the dash cluster. Remove the plastic ring nut on the front of the switch. Next take the rubber boot off the hydraulic control levers, and remove the side panel mesh. Push the switch thru the back. By removing those Phillips head screws and the boot it gives you just enough wiggle room to snake the switch and wires down to where you can grab them out where the side mesh panel was.
Pushing the switch and wires back up takes some time and dexterity, use a pair of long nose pliers thru the spot where the boot was to position the switch back into its hole. Good luck.