Hello Artemjemmy, I'm not sure I'm understanding your question. So I went out and did what you suggested and have some good/bad news. The good news is that if I just keep the ignition in "reverse" mode the blades stay engaged while mowing forwards or backwards (I'm sure this is obvious to you guys but to be honest I've never even paid attention to the the "reverse" option or ever used it until this situation started). The bad news is that the blades stop when I turn the key to the "forward" position. So I guess I can just always keep the key in the "reverse" mode, push the yellow triangle button and mow. However, I'd really like to fix it so if you guys have any ideas please keep them coming!!
To summarize, I started the XT1, turned the ignition key to "reverse" mode, pushed the yellow triangle button, and pulled the PTO and the blades engage. I went both forward and reverse with the key in the "reverse" mode and the blades stay engaged. When I turn the key to the "forward" mode the blades shut off. Hopefully, I'm explaining this so it makes sense to you guys. Thanks a lot for your help!!!