An Ignition switch or starter switch is a part in the control system of an internal combustion engine that activates the main electrical systems for the equipment or vehicle. It allows power to the starter solenoid and the ignition system components (including the engine control unit and ignition coil.)
The ignition system is used to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine. The starter system is the ignition system, plus the battery, and starter switch, starter solenoid and electric starter motor.
Ignition Switches by Brand
Arctic Cat
Ariens
AYP/Electrolux
Bad Boy
BE
Billy Goat
Bobcat
Bolens
Briggs and Stratton
Bunton
Bunton, Bobcat, Ryan
Bush Hog
Castle Garden
Comet
Countax
Craftsman
Cub Cadet
Delta
Dewalt
Dixon
Dolmar
Dosko
Economy
Encore
Everride
Exmark
Ferris
Generac
General Power
Gilson
Grasshopper
Gravely
Great Dane
Hako
Henrys
Homelite
Honda
Husqvarna
Hustler
Iseki
Jacobsen
Jet Tools
John Deere
Jonsered
Kawasaki
Kohler
Kubota
Lawn-Boy
LCT
Lesco
Makita
Manco
Meyer
MTD
Murray
National
Noma
Northstar
Partner
Porter Cable
Poulan
Power King
PowerMate
Red Max
Remington
Robin Subaru
Ryan
Ryobi
Scag
Sears
Simplicity
Snapper
Snapper Pro
Stiga
SUBARU
Swisher
Tecumseh
Toro
Troy Bilt
Universal
Viking
Westwood
Wolf
Worldlawn
Wright MFG
Yard Machines
Yardman
Other Ignition Parts
Ignition switch also usually switches on power to many "accessories" (radio, power windows, etc.). The ignition switch usually requires a key be inserted that works a lock built into the switch mechanism. It is frequently combined with the starter switch which activates the starter motor. The ignition locking system may be bypassed by disconnecting the wiring to the switch and manipulating it directly; this is known as hotwiring.
Additional information and source: Ignition switch