How to Disable the Rio on a John Deere X540

The X-540 is a riding lawn mower manufactured by John Deere. The reverse implement option (RIO) on John Deere automatic drive models is a mechanism that allows the blades to remain engaged and cutting while the tractor is in reverse, for short periods of time. Otherwise, if the RIO is not engaged, the mechanism will cut off power to the ignition if the driver tries to mow in reverse. However, if you do not want the tractor to have the ability to mow in reverse, the RIO button -- located just below the automatic shifter -- can be disabled completely.

Adjustable wrench
Allen wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Stop the vehicle, allow it to cool off and then open the hood cover. Use the adjustable wrench to take off the Deere's negative battery cable.
- 2
  Locate the RIO button mounted below the gear shifter. Use the Allen wrench to remove the hex nut holding the plastic shifting cowl in place.
- 3
  Trace the wire leading away from the RIO button assembly to the ignition switch. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the RIO wire from the ignition assembly. Wind the wire up so that it rests near the RIO assemble, and bind the wound-up wire with a plastic tie.
- 4
  Unplug the plastic wiring harness that the RIO button is attached to.
- 5
  Replace the plastic shifter cowl with the Allen wrench, and then replace the negative battery cable with the adjustable wrench. This will completely disable the RIO button.

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