Securing the Gator with a hidden switch, on the homestead!

​First, if you aren't sure what you're doing; don't try this modification! But if you are good with a meter, and want extra security for your equipment; this is how to do it.

This is being done on a John Deere Gator, but it will work on anything using an internal combustion engine.

Most kill switches interrupt the ignition power or the fuel pump to kill the engine. Both are obvious, and can be wired past with little effort. I decided to look for a kill switch that would look like a system failure, instead of a security function.

Tracing the starter wire is my starting point:

The purple solenoid wire is the activation circuit for the starter.

It traces to the ignition switch here:

Be sure this traces true, because this identifies the contact on the ignition switch!

This is the connection intended to start the engine:

I intend to remove it, to permanently interrupt this circuit; rendering the Gator non-functional!

Here it is post connection removal:

Once this is plugged back in, this will be invisible; but the starter will be silent! As an added level of security to I'll pull power from an accessory power connection, so the new switch will not be active without turning on the key.

I placed a new switch behind the driver's seat:

I picked a green mushroom style switch to match the body color to look factory installed. I intend to add a label that says the switch is to release the lock on the dump bed, in case someone notices the switch.

The label, combined with the lack of power without the key; should really hide the function of this switch! It is easy to reach with my left hand, which will allow me to make it look like the dash switch is starting the Gator.

This will work with any equipment, just be sure to test twice before cutting anything!