John Deere x300 w/o ground is off the coils

My x300 battery died and after replacing the battery it would turn over but not start. It wasn't getting spark. When I pulled the ground wires off the coils it would start but then the blades would not engage. It will stop the engine when I lift off the seat. I'm need direction on how to troubleshoot the other safety switches. If there is another direction I need to pursue I'm open to suggestions. Help