1722887SM Lawn Mower PTO Switch Replacement Simplicity Snapper Ferris Bad Boy Cub Cadet Exmark Clutch Switch Fits Simplicity Ferris Zero Turn Mower Parts 1722887sm 1722887 1722887YP Review

Overview

The 1722887SM PTO switch is a direct replacement part designed for zero-turn mowers from Simplicity, Snapper, Ferris, Bad Boy, Cub Cadet, and Exmark. It’s not a mower itself, but rather a critical electrical component that controls your mower’s blade engagement clutch. If your blades won’t engage, won’t disengage, or your mower stalls when you try to activate them, this $12.89 switch is often the culprit. It’s best for DIY-minded homeowners and small-fleet operators who want to avoid a costly dealer visit for a simple fix.

Who Should Buy This

• Owners of Simplicity, Snapper, Ferris, Bad Boy, Cub Cadet, or Exmark zero-turn mowers – If your mower’s PTO switch is failing, this is a direct, plug-and-play replacement for many models using part numbers 1722887, 1722887SM, or 1722887YP.
• Homeowners with medium to large lawns (1/2 acre+) – These are the folks most likely to own a zero-turn mower and encounter switch wear from frequent engagement cycles.
• DIY mechanics who hate paying dealer markups – A dealer will charge $40–$80 for this part plus a labor fee. At $12.89, you can swap it in 10 minutes with a screwdriver.
• Anyone experiencing intermittent blade engagement – If your blades sometimes engage, sometimes don’t, or you have to jiggle the switch, this part is likely the fix.

Key Features Breakdown

• Compatibility (1722887, 1722887SM, 1722887YP) – This switch replaces multiple OEM part numbers, covering a wide range of Simplicity, Snapper, Ferris, Bad Boy, Cub Cadet, and Exmark zero-turn mowers. Always double-check your mower’s part number, but this one covers most common models from the early 2000s to present.
• Electrical rating (typically 12V DC, 20A) – The switch handles the current draw of the PTO clutch without overheating. This is a standard spec for most residential zero-turn mowers.
• Plastic housing with metal contacts – The housing is durable enough for years of exposure to sun, rain, and vibration. The internal metal contacts are the key – they’re what actually wear out over time. This replacement uses fresh contacts that restore firm, positive engagement.
• Push-pull or toggle action – Depending on your mower, this switch either pushes in and pulls out or toggles up and down. The action is crisp and requires moderate force, which means it won’t accidentally engage or disengage from vibration.
• Pre-wired pigtail (if included) – Some versions come with a short wiring harness and connector that plugs directly into your mower’s existing harness. No cutting, crimping, or soldering required. Check the listing to confirm whether your version includes the pigtail.

Pros

1. Unbeatable price – At $12.89, this is a fraction of the cost of an OEM replacement from a dealer. You’re saving $30–$60 on a part that does the exact same job.
2. Simple installation – If you can use a screwdriver and unplug a connector, you can replace this switch in under 10 minutes. No special tools or electrical knowledge needed.
3. Wide compatibility – Covers five major zero-turn brands (Simplicity, Snapper, Ferris, Bad Boy, Cub Cadet, Exmark) and multiple part numbers. This makes it a great spare to keep in your shop.
4. Restores reliable blade engagement – The most common failure is that the switch’s internal contacts wear out, causing intermittent or no engagement. A new switch fixes this immediately.
5. Solid build quality for the price – The plastic housing feels sturdy, and the metal contacts are well-made. It won’t feel flimsy or cheap compared to an OEM part.
6. No dealer trip required – You can order this online and fix the mower yourself, avoiding a multi-day wait for a dealer to order the part.

Cons

1. Not a universal fit – While it covers many models, it won’t work on every zero-turn mower. You must verify your mower’s part number before buying. A wrong fit means a return.
2. May not include mounting hardware – Some versions come with just the switch and no mounting screws or nuts. Check your mower; you may need to reuse the original hardware.
3. Plastic housing can crack if over-tightened – The mounting screws should be snug, not torqued down. Over-tightening can crack the plastic tabs, ruining the switch.
4. No instruction manual – This is a bare-bones replacement part. If you’re not comfortable with basic electrical work, you’ll need to find a wiring diagram or YouTube video for your specific mower model.

Bottom Line

The 1722887SM PTO switch is an excellent value for anyone with a compatible zero-turn mower who’s experiencing blade engagement issues. For $12.89, you get a direct replacement that fixes the most common electrical failure point on these mowers. It’s not a universal part, so double-check your mower’s part number first, but if it fits, this is the cheapest and easiest fix you’ll find. Highly recommended for DIY homeowners who want to avoid a dealer visit and get back to mowing in under 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if this switch fits my mower?
A: Check your mower’s PTO switch for a part number printed on the side or bottom. Common numbers are 1722887, 1722887SM, or 1722887YP. If you see one of these, this switch will fit. If you’re unsure, search your mower’s make and model online for the correct PTO switch part number.

Q: Can I install this without any electrical experience?
A: Yes, if your mower has a plug-in connector. Simply unplug the old switch, remove it from the dash, install the new one, and plug it in. If you need to splice wires, you’ll need basic crimping skills, but most models use a direct connector.

Q: My blades still won’t engage after replacing the switch. What else could be wrong?
A: The PTO switch is just one component. Other common causes include a blown fuse, a faulty PTO clutch, a broken wire in the harness, or a safety interlock switch (like the seat switch). Check the fuse first – it’s the easiest next step.