Gasoline containing up to 10% ethan ol (E10) o r up to 10% MTBE (meth yl tertia ry butyl ether) is acceptabl e
for use in this machine.
The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) or 10% MTBE will void the product warranty.
Il est possible d’utiliser de l’essence contenant jusq u’à 10% d’éthanol (E10) ou 10% de MTBE (éther
méthyl-tertiobutylique) su r cette machine.
L’utilisation d’une ess ence contenant plus de 10% d’éthanol (E10) ou de 10% de MTBE annulent la
garantie.
Manuals in languages other than
English may be obtained from
your Dealer. Visit your dealer or
www.ariens.com fo r a li st of
languages available for your
equipment. Visit your dealer or
www.ariens.com fo r a li st of
languages available for your
equipment.
Manuals printed in languages other than
English are also available as a free download
on our website:
http://www.ariens.com
MANUALES EN IDIOMAS
DIFERENTES DEL INGLES
Puede obtener manuales en
idiomas diferentes del inglés en su
distribuidor. Visite a su distribuidor
o vaya a www.ariens.eu para
obtener una lista de idiomas
disponibles para su equipo.
Visite a su distribuidor o vaya a
www.ariens.com para obtener una
lista de idiomas disponibles para su equipo.
También puede imprimir manuales en
idiomas diferentes del inglés descargándolos
gratuitamente de nuestra página Web:
http://www.ariens.com
MANUELS NON ANGLAIS
Des manuels dans différentes
langues sont disponibles chez
votre revendeur. Rendez-vous
chez votre revendeur ou allez sur
le site ariens.com pour consulter la
liste des langues disponibles pour
votre équipement.
Rendez-vous chez votre revendeur
ou allez sur le site www.ariens.com pour
consulter la liste des langues disponibles
pour votre équipement.
Les manuels imprimés dans des langues
différentes de l’anglais sont également
disponibles en téléchargement gratuit sur
notre site Web :
http://www.ariens.com
THE MANUAL
Before using the unit, carefully and
completely read your manuals. The contents
will give you an understanding of safety
instructions and controls during normal
operation and maintenance.
All reference to left, right, front, or rear are
given from the operator’s position, facing the
direction of forward travel.
ENGINE MANUAL
The engine on this unit is covered by a
separate manual specific to the engine. This
manual is included in the literature package
that shipped with the unit. Refer to this
manual for engine service recommendations.
If the engine manual is not available, contact
the engine manufacturer for a replacement
manual.
SERVICE AND REPLACEMENT
PARTS
When ordering replacement parts or making
service inquiries, know the Model and Serial
numbers of your unit and engine.
Numbers are located on the product
registration form in the unit literature
package. They are also printed on a serial
number label, located on the frame of your
unit (Figure 1).
GB - 2
• Record Unit Model and Serial numbers
Figure 1
OM1600
Unit Serial
Number Label
here:
• Record Engine Model & Serial numbers
here:
PRODUCT REGISTRATION
The Ariens dealer must register the product
at the time of purchase. Registering the
product will help the company process
warranty claims or contact you with the latest
service information. All claims meeting
requirements during the limited warranty
period will be honored, whether or not the
product registration card is returned. Keep a
proof of purchase if you do not register your
unit.
Customer Note: If the Dealer does not
register your product, please fill out, sign and
return the product registration card to Ariens
or go to www.ariens.com on the internet.
DEALER DELIVERY
Dealer should:
1. Check that all assembly and
adjustments have been properly
completed.
2. Fill out Original Purchaser Registration
Card and return the card to Ariens.
3. Explain Ariens Limited Warranty Policy.
4. Explain recommended lubrication and
maintenance. Advise customer on
adjustments. Remind customer to
change oil in 4 cycle engine crankcase
after first five (5) hours of operation.
5. Instruct customer on controls and
operation of unit. Discuss and
emphasize the Safety Rules. Give
customer Owner/Operator, Parts, and
Engine manuals. Advise customer to
thoroughly read and understand them.
DISCLAIMER
Ariens reserves the right to discontinue,
make changes to, and add improvements
upon its products at any time without public
notice or obligation.The descriptions and
specifications contained in this manual were
in effect at printing. Equipment described
within this manual may be optional. Some
illustrations may not apply to your unit.
UNAUTHORIZED REPLACEMENT
PARTS
Use only Ariens replacement parts.
Replacing any part on this vehicle with
anything other than an Ariens authorized
replacement part may adversely affect the
performance, durability, or safety of this unit
and may void the warranty. Ariens disclaims
liability for any claims or damages, whether
warranty, property damage, personal injury or
death arising out of the use of unauthorized
replacement parts. To locate your nearest
Ariens Dealer, go to www.Ariens.com on the
internet.
GB - 3
SAFETY
WARNING: This cutting machine
is capable of amputating hands
and feet and throwing objects.
Failure to observe the safety
instructions in the manuals and
on decals could result in serious
injury or death.
Slopes are a major factor related
to slip and fall accidents.
Operation on all slopes requires
extra caution.
Tragic accidents can occur if the
operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Never
assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.
Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive,
handle with care.
Stop unit and engine, remove key
(if equipped) and allow moving
parts to stop before leaving
operator’s position.
SAFETY ALERTS
Look for these symbols to point
out important safety precautions.
They mean:
Attention!
Personal Safety Is
Involved!
Become Alert!
Obey The Message!
The safety alert symbols above and signal
words below are used on decals and in this
manual.
Read and understand all safety messages.
CAUTION: POTENTIALLY
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, MAY RESUL T in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be
used to alert against unsafe
practices.
NOTATIONS
NOTE: General reference information for
proper operation and maintenance practices.
IMPORTANT: Specific procedures or
information required to prevent damage to
unit or attachment.
PRACTICES AND LAWS
Practice usual and customary safe working
precautions, for the benefit of yourself and
others. Understand and follow all safety
messages. Be alert to unsafe conditions and
the possibility of minor, moderate, or serious
injury or death. Learn applicable rules and
laws in your area.
REQUIRED OPERATOR
TRAINING
Original purchaser of this unit was instructed
by the seller on safe and proper operation. If
anyone other than the original purchaser will
use the unit, ALWAYS provide this manual
and any needed safety training before
operation.
DANGER: IMMINENTLY
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, WILL RESULT in death or
serious injury.
WARNING: POTENTIALLY
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, COULD RESULT in
death or serious injury.
GB - 4
SAFETY DECALS AND
1
2
3
OM3181
Figure 2
OL1801
OL4370
OL0910
OL4540
OL3030
LOCATIONS
ALWAYS replace missing or damaged safety
decals. Refer to Figure 2 for safety decal
locations.
1. DANGER!
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
Read the operator’s manual.
Keep children and others away
from unit while operating.
•Go across slopes, not up and down.
•Look down and behind before and
while moving backward.
•Do not park on a slope unless
chocked or blocked.
•Do not allow operation of machine by
untrained personnel.
2. DANGER!
KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY
Do not operate mower unless guards are in
operating position or bagger is attached.
3. CAUTION!
•Bag is subject to wear and
deterioration.
•Check bag frequently, replace when
necessary.
•Use original bag to comply with safety
specifications.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
This equipment and/or its engine may include
exhaust and evaporative emissions control
system components required to meet U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
and/or California Air Resources Board
(CARB) regulations. Tampering with
emission controls and components by
unauthorized personnel may result in severe
fines or penalties. Emission controls and
components can only be adjusted by an
Ariens Company dealer or an authorized
engine manufacturer's service center.
Contact your Ariens Company Equipment
Retailer concerning emission controls and
component questions.
SAFETY RULES
If unit is to be used by someone other than
Never direct discharge toward
other people. Thrown objects can
cause injury.
Do not operate mower unless
guards are in operating position
or entire bagger is attached.
Keep safety devices (guards,
shields, switches, etc.) in place
and working.
original purchaser; loaned, rented or sold,
ALWAYS provide this manual and any
needed safety training before operation.
Learn applicable rules and laws in your area,
including those that may restrict the age of
the operator.
Read, understand and follow all safety
practices in Owner/Operator Manual before
beginning assembly. Failure to follow
instructions could result in personal injury
and/or damage to unit.
If the operator or the mechanic cannot read
the manual, it is the owner’s responsibility to
explain it to them. Only the user can prevent
and is responsible for accidents or injuries
occurring to themselves, other people or
property.
GB - 5
ALWAYS remove key (if equipped) and
disconnect wire from spark plug before
assembly. Unintentional engine start up can
cause death or serious injury.
Complete a walk around inspection of unit
and work area to understand:
•work area
•your unit
•all safety decals.
Clear work area of stones, sticks, wire and
foreign objects which might be picked up and
thrown. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Know the work area. Stay alert for holes,
rocks, rough terrain and hidden hazards.
Keep away from drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments that could cause operator to
lose footing or control of unit.
ALWA YS be aware of traffic when operating
along streets or curbs.
Keep work area clear of all persons, children
and pets.
Keep children out of the work area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult.
ALWA YS operate unit when there is good
visibility and light.
DO NOT mow wet grass.
ALWA YS be sure of your footing. Keep a firm
hold on handlebar. Walk, NEVER run.
Engine/blade control feature on mower stops
engine and blade within 3 seconds whenever
operator releases handlebar. Check this
feature frequently. If feature fails to operate,
disconnect spark plug wire and adjust or have
it repaired before using unit.
Only trained adults may operate or service
unit. Training includes actual operation. The
owner is responsible for training users.
NEVER operate after or during the use of
medication, drugs or alcohol. Unit requires
complete and unimpaired attention.
NEVER allow children to use or service
mower.
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from
rotating parts. Rotating parts can cut off body
parts.
ALWA YS keep hands away fr om pinch points.
Fumes from engine exhaust can cause death
or serious injury. DO NOT run engine in an
enclosed area.
ALWAYS protect eyes, face, and body with
adequate safety gear and protective clothes.
Wear sturdy footwear, gloves, a hard hat and
safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields while operating mower.
Wear appropriate hearing protection.
NEVER operate mower barefoot or when
wearing open sandals or canvas shoes.
NEVER wear loose clothes, long hair or
jewelry that may get caught in rotating parts.
ALWAYS stand clear of discharge when
operating unit.
NEVER direct discharge toward bystanders.
Operator is responsible for bystander safety.
DO NOT touch hot parts. Allow parts to cool.
Keep safety devices or guards in place and
functioning properly. NEVER modify or
remove safety devices.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions
in the manual and on the machine before
starting. Understand:
•How to operate all controls
•The functions of all controls
•How to STOP in an emergency.
DO NOT attempt to start your engine until
you know what the controls do and how they
work.
DO NOT tilt mower when starting it.
Keep feet away when starting engine.
DO NOT start the engine or operate mower
without side discharge cover or side
discharge deflector installed.
Never leave a running unit unattended.
Take all possible precautions when leaving
unit unattended.
ALWAYS shut off engine, remove key
(electric start models) and disconnect spark
plug wire to prevent accidental starting or
unauthorized use.
Stop engine if anyone enters the work area.
NEVER attempt to make any adjustments to
unit while engine is running (except where
specifically recommended). Stop engine,
remove key (electric start models) and wait
for all moving parts to stop before servicing.
DO NOT make cutting height wheel
adjustments while the engine is running.
If you strike an object, or if equipment
vibrates abnormally, stop engine at once, wait
for moving parts to stop and disconnect wire
from spark plug. Repair any damage before
restarting unit.
Keep rear door closed when engine is
running unless the grass bag is in place.
Stop engine before removing and emptying
grass bag.
When mulching or bagging, ALWAYS install
discharge cover.
When side discharging, ALWAYS install side
discharge deflector.
GB - 6
ALWAYS shut off engine, allow blade to stop
and disconnect spark plug wire before
clearing clogs or cleaning unit.
Check grass bag for wear, damage, and/or
deterioration. Replace only with Ariens
original equipment replacement parts for
safety.
To reduce fire hazard and overheating, keep
equipment free of grass, leaves, debris or
excessive lubricants.
Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects which
may obscure vision.
DO NOT mow at too fast a rate. DO NOT
change engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.
Do not operate mower on gravel or loose
material such as sand. Stop mower when
crossing drives, walks, or roads to prevent
damage or injury from thrown objects.
DO NOT pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Look down and back,
especially for small children, before and while
moving backwards.
On self-propelled models, releasing wheel
drive control must stop mower’s forward
movement. If this feature fails to operate,
disconnect spark plug wire and repair before
using unit.
On self-propelled models, wheel drive must
be disengaged when starting engine.
DO NOT operate on steep slopes.
NEVER leave unit unattended on a slope.
Chock wheels if parking on a slope.
Mow across the face of slopes, never up and
down. Be especially cautious when changing
direction on slopes.
This product is equipped with an internal
combustion engine. DO NOT use on or near
any unimproved, forest or brush covered land
unless the exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrestor meeting applicable local, state
or federal laws. A spark arrestor, if used,
must be maintained in effective working order
by the operator. See your Ariens Dealer or
engine manufacturer’s service center.
Emission Control System
Certification Label
NOTE: Tampering with emission controls and
components by unauthorized personnel may
result in severe fines or penalties. Emission
controls and components can only be
adjusted by EPA and/or CARB authorized
service centers. Contact your Ariens
Equipment Retailer concerning emission
controls and component questions.
Fuel is highly flammable and its vapors can
explode. ONLY use approved fuel containers.
•NO Smoking!
•NO Sparks!
•NO Flames!
•Allow engine to cool before filling fuel
tank.
Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always
place containers on the ground away from
your vehicle before filling.
When practical, remove gas-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
it on the ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lockopen device.
Check fuel supply before starting engine.
DO NOT fill gasoline tank indoors, when
engine is running, or while engine is hot.
Allow engine to cool several minutes before
removing fuel cap.
DO NOT overfill. Allow about 1/4" (6 mm) of
tank space for fuel expansion.
Replace gasoline tank cap securely and
clean any spilled fuel before starting engine.
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
NEVER store fuel inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
ALWAYS drain fuel outdoors away from
ignition sources.
ALWAYS shut off engine, and remove key,
and close fuel shutoff valve when transporting
unit on a truck or trailer.
Avoid Electric Shock. DO NOT disconnect
wire from spark plug while engine is running.
Do NOT put battery in fire or mutilate.
Explosive Gases!
NO flames, NO sparks, NO smoking, near
Contact with skin, eyes or clothing can cause
severe chemical burns.
ALWAYS wear safety glasses and protective
gear near battery.
ALWAYS keep batteries out of reach of
children.
GB - 7
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.
Charge batteries in an open, well-ventilated
area, away from spark and flames. Unplug
charger before connecting or disconnecting
battery. Wear protective clothing and use
insulated tools.
Accidental engine start up can cause death or
serious injury. Except where specifically
recommended, ALWAYS stop engine,
remove key (electric start models), wait for
moving parts to stop, allow parts to cool and
disconnect spark plug wire before inspecting,
servicing, adjusting or repairing unit.
Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other
debris build-up.
Keep equipment in good condition.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction
labels, as necessary.
Follow engine manufacturer’s safety
instruction when servicing engine.
Check all hardware at regular intervals,
especially blade attachment bolts. Keep all
hardware properly tightened.
An extension spring, when extended, stores
energy and can be dangerous. Always use
tools specifically designed for installing or
removing an extension spring. Always
compress or extend springs slowly.
Before tipping unit, remove fuel and battery (if
equipped).
Use extra care when loading or unloading
unit onto trailer or truck.
Ensure all wheel blocks, jack stands and tie
downs will support unit during maintenance.
Replace worn-out mufflers immediately.
Continued use could result in fire or
explosion.
Sharp edges can cut or amputate fingers or a
hand. Wrap blade or wear sturdy gloves to
service.
Only replace blades. NEVER straighten or
weld blades.
Use only replacement parts designed for your
unit. See your Ariens Dealer.
Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
ALW AYS clean unit before extended storage.
See engine manual for proper storage.
DO NOT store unit inside a building with fuel
in the fuel tank where any ignition sources
are present.
Use only accessories which have been
approved by Ariens and are properly
installed.
Use only accessories or attachments that are
designed for your unit and that can be used
safely on your terrain.
Check attachments frequently and replace
worn or damaged components with
manufacturer’s recommended parts.
GB - 8
CAUTION: AVOID INJURY. Read
Figure 3
1. Mower Unit
2. Side Discharge Cover
3. Side Discharge Deflector
4. Literature Pac k
5. Mulch Plug
6. G rass Bag
1
2
3
4
5
6
OM3190
and understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.
CARTON CONTENTS
ASSEMBLY
ASSEMBLY
1. Unfold and adjust handlebar. See
HANDLEBAR HEIGHT on page 20.
NOTE: DO NOT bend the speed control rod
(if equipped) when unfolding the handlebars.
2. Fill engine crankcase with oil. See
engine manual.
3. Set-up mower for bagging, side
discharge or mulching. See MOWER SET-UP on page 14.
4. Fill fuel tank. See FILLING THE FU EL TANK on page 14.
5. Connect spark plug wire.
6. Check the engine/blade control feature.
Try starting the engine without the
engine/blade control held against the
handlebar. Engine must not start. If
engine starts, stop engine and bring the
unit to your dealer for adjustment or
repair.