My craftsman riding mower won't even try to start after I pulled the rod in the back to push it out of the way. I have pushed the rod back in but it still won't even try to start. I believe something has it locked out but don't know what.

Things that keep a riding lawn mower from trying to start are generally related to safety interlocks. I don't know craftsman, but typical things are:

1)Mower in park-generally a switch that is made when the parking brake or shifter is in the safe position to start. Don't want the mower to take off when you hit the start button

2)blades disengaged-most mowers won't start with the blades engaged- don't want the blades to engage while starting- generally a switch on the operators controls

3)some have seat sensors that require you to be sitting in the seat when you start it. This means you are sitting where you should be to operate the machine.

4)I don't know what the rod is you are mentioning, but have you looked around it to see if maybe there is a switch involved with it. Could be you snagged a wire and broke it too.

If the mower was working immediately prior to the removal and insertion of the rod you mentioned, then it stand to be reasonably logical that the rod might be connected to the problem, but you always have to remember old Murphy and it may be coincidental. If you have a zero turn mower, then there is a switch making sure the steering arms are in the correct position to start also. Craftsman may have other interlocks, but if they are almost always tied to safety and block power to the start circuit until the safety is in place. Best I can do for you. Hope it helps.

Hi,If it does nothing, I agree with the interlock issue. If the solenoid engages(click) and does not spin, then it could be a solenoid or key switch issue. If it tries to spin, it could be a valve adjustment ot starter pinion issue. A little more detail might be in order.Peace,Clarke