I have a Murray riding mower and when I started this morning the key was frozen. It did not turn. I removed the ignition unit, purchased and installed a new one, and now there not even the slightest starting noise. Nothing. I would take it to a shop, but it is out on the pasture and hard to push to the trailer. So if I could look for a fix that would be appreciated. Rainer:)

Are you sure you got the correct switch for the mower. There are switches that look the same but function differently. You could also probably thaw the old one and put it back it too.

This all would depend on whether the battery is OK...

Hi,
Have to agree; just because it has the same number of prongs does not mean identical. Often the prongs are labelled on the side or the backing the prongs come through are labelled. Letters like B, G, L, S are common. That is Battery, Ground, Lights and Starter. Not all are necessarily used, but the battery voltage must reach the solenoid to trigger it; B terminal connects to the S terminal in the start position. Indak manufactures a huge variety of switches.
Stens - The Parts Company (http://www.stens.com/)
Should give you an idea. With the model number of the machine, you can probably obtain a manual. Older ones used a 21064 which was replaced by a 24265, and so on. They are not interchangeable.
Peace,
Clarke