Ariens 91140300 (2000-999999) Owner’s Manual

Wide Area Walk Mower

Owner/Operator Manual
Manuel du Proprietaire/Utilisateur

Models

911403 - WAW 1034

911407 - WAW 1034 CARB

ENGLISH

FRENCH

01290700A 8/09

Printed in USA

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Safety ........................... 4

Assembly ........................ 9

Controls and Features ............. 11

Operation ....................... 12

Maintenance ..................... 16

Service and Adjustments .......... 19

II_Imd;[o]_lll[o,]ij[o] _I

Storage ......................... 23

Troubleshooting .................. 24

Service Parts .................... 25

Accessories ..................... 25

Specifications ................... 26

Warranty ........................ 27

NON-ENGLISH MANUALS

Manuals in languages other than
English may be obtained from

your Dealer. Visit your dealer or
w_v.ariens.com for a list 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.co m

MANUALES EN IDIOMAS
DIFERENTES DEL INGLES

Puede obtener manuales en
idiomas diferentes del ingles en su

distribuidor. Visite a su distribuidor
o vaya a w_v.ariens.com para

obtener una lista de idiomas
disponibles para su equipo.

Tambien puede imprimir manuales
en idiomas diferentes del ingles
descargandolos gratuitamente de
nuestra pagina Web:

htt p://www.ariens.co m

MANUELS NON ANGLAIS

Des manuels dans differentes
langues sont disponibles chez

votre revendeur. Rendez-vous
chez votre revendeur ou allez sur

le site w_v.ariens.com pour
consulter la liste des langues
disponibles pour votre equipement.

Les manuels imprimes dans des
langues differentes de I'anglais
sont egalement disponibles en
t61echargement gratuit sur notre

site Web :

htt p://www.ariens.co m

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.

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).

Unit Serial Engine Serial
Number Label Number Label

Figure 1

GB-2

•RecordUnitModelandSerialnumbers
here:

l ]

• Record Engine Model & Serial numbers
here:

[ J

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.

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.

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.

GB-3

[,:'Y-,1_1=1i'i

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.

The safety alert symbols above and signal
words below are used on decals and in this

manual.
Read and understand all safety messages.

They mean:

Personal Safety Is Involved!

Attention!

Become Alert!

Obey The Message!

CAUTION: POTENTIALLY

A

HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, MAY RESULT 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
LOCATIONS

ALWAYS replace missing or damaged safety
decals. Refer to Figure 2 for safety decal

locations.

1

1. DANGER!

TO AVOIDSERIOUS INJURYOR DEATH

Read the operator's manual.

OL180I

Keep children and others away

from unit while operating.

©L4370

Never direct discharge toward
other people. Thrown objects can
cause injury.

OL0910

Figure 2

GB-5

guards are in operating position

=] o not operate mower unless

or entire bagger is attached.

©L1812

shields, switches, etc.) in place

Keep safety devices (guards,

and working.

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. WARNING!

Read the operator's manual.

OL180I

4. DANGER!

KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

Do not operate mower unless guards are in
operating position or bagger is attached.

5. WARNING!

Keep children and others away

from unit while operating.

©L4370

Never direct discharge toward
other people. Thrown objects can
cause injury.

OL0910

Shut off engine, remove key, and
read manual before you adjust or
repair unit.

©L1812

Wear appropriate hearing
protection.

3. DANGER! ROTATING PARTS

Always keep feet and hands

away from rotating parts.

OL1809

Always stand clear of discharge

area. Do not direct discharge
toward other people.

Keep people away from unit

while operating.

Shut off engine, remove key,
and read manual before you
adjust or repair unit.

©L1812

¢_ AIwaySarea.stand clearofdischarge

©L1814

÷ Do not operate mower unless

bagger is attached or guards

are in operating position.

OLI815

SAFETY RULES

If unit is to be used by someone other than
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.

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.

®

OL1813

NO STEP! Always keep feet
away from rotating parts.

Keep away from drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments that could cause operator to
lose footing or control of unit.

ALWAYS be aware of traffic when operating
along streets or curbs.

GB-6

Keepworkareaclearofallpersons,children

andpets.

Keepchildrenoutoftheworkareaandunder

thewatchfulcareofaresponsibleadult.
ALWAYSoperateunitwhenthereisgood

visibilityandlight.

DONOTmowwetgrass.

ALWAYSbesureofyourfooting.Keepafirm

holdonhandlebar.Walk,NEVERrun.

Engine/bladecontrolfeatureonmowerstops
engineandbladewithin5secondswhenever
operatorreleasesPTOlever.Checkthis
featurefrequently.Iffeaturefailstooperate,
disconnectsparkplugwireandadjustorhave

itrepairedbeforeusingunit.

Onlytrainedadultsmayoperateorservice

unit.Trainingincludesactualoperation.The
ownerisresponsiblefortrainingusers.

NEVERoperateafterorduringtheuseof

medication,drugsoralcohol.Unitrequires
completeandunimpairedattention.

NEVERallowchildrentouseorservice

mower.
ALWAYSkeephandsandfeetawayfrom

rotatingparts.Rotatingpartscancutoffbody

parts.
ALWAYSkeephandsawayfrompinchpoints.

Fumesfromengineexhaustcancausedeath
orseriousinjury.DONOTrunengineinan

enclosedarea.
ALWAYSprotecteyes,face,andbodywith

adequatesafetygearandprotectiveclothes.
Wearsturdyfootwear,gloves,ahardhatand
safetygogglesorsafetyglasseswithside
shieldswhileoperatingmower.

Wearappropriatehearingprotection.

NEVERoperatemowerbarefootorwhen
wearingopensandalsorcanvasshoes.

NEVERwearlooseclothes,longhairor
jewelrythatmaygetcaughtinrotatingparts.

ALWAYSstandclearofdischargewhen
operatingunit.

NEVERdirectdischargetowardbystanders.

Operatorisresponsibleforbystandersafety.

DONOTtouchhotparts.Allowpartstocool.

Keepsafetydevicesorguardsinplaceand
functioningproperly.NEVERmodifyor

removesafetydevices.

Read,understand,andfollowallinstructions

inthemanualandonthemachinebefore
starting.Understand:

Howtooperateallcontrols
Thefunctionsofallcontrols

HowtoSTOPinanemergency.

DONOTattempttostartyourengineuntil

youknowwhatthecontrolsdoandhowthey
work.

DONOTtiltmowerwhenstartingit.
Keepfeetawaywhenstartingengine.

DONOTstarttheengineoroperatemower
withoutsidedischargecoverorside
dischargedeflectorinstalled.

Neverleavearunningunitunattended.
Takeallpossibleprecautionswhenleaving

unitunattended.
ALWAYSshutoffengine,removekey

(electricstartmodels)anddisconnectspark
plugwiretopreventaccidentalstartingor

unauthorizeduse.
Stopengineifanyoneenterstheworkarea.

NEVERattempttomakeanyadjustmentsto
unitwhileengineisrunning(exceptwhere
specificallyrecommended).Stopengine,
removekey(electricstartmodels)andwait
forallmovingpartstostopbeforeservicing.

DONOTmakecuttingheightwheel
adjustmentswhiletheengineisrunning.

Ifyoustrikeanobject,orifequipment
vibratesabnormally,stopengineatonce,wait
formovingpartstostopanddisconnectwire
fromsparkplug.Repairanydamagebefore
restartingunit.

Stopenginebeforeremovingandemptying
grassbag.

Whenmulchingorbagging,ALWAYSinstall
dischargecover.

Whensidedischarging,ALWAYSinstallside
dischargedeflector.

ALWAYSshutoffengine,allowbladetostop
anddisconnectsparkplugwirebefore
clearingclogsorcleaningunit.

Checkgrassbagforwear,damage,and/or
deterioration.ReplaceonlywithAriens
originalequipmentreplacementpartsfor
safety.

Toreducefirehazardandoverheating,keep
equipmentfreeofgrass,leaves,debrisor

excessivelubricants.

Useextracarewhenapproachingblind
corners,shrubs,trees,orotherobjectswhich
mayobscurevision.

DONOTmowattoofastarate.DONOT
changeenginegovernorsettingorover-

speedtheengine.

Donotoperatemowerongravelorloose
materialsuchassand.Stopmowerwhen
crossingdrives,walks,orroadstoprevent
damageorinjuryfromthrownobjects.

GB-7

DONOTpullmowerbackwardsunless
absolutelynecessary.Lookdownandback,
especiallyforsmallchildren,beforeandwhile

movingbackwards.

Onself-propelledmodels,releasingwheel
drivecontrolmuststopmower'sforward

movement.Ifthisfeaturefailstooperate,
disconnectsparkplugwireandrepairbefore

usingunit.

Onself-propelledmodels,wheeldrivemust

bedisengagedwhenstartingengine.

DONOToperateonsteepslopes.

NEVERleaveunitunattendedonaslope.

Chockwheelsifparkingonaslope.

Mowacrossthefaceofslopes,neverupand
down.Beespeciallycautiouswhenchanging
directiononslopes.

Thisproductisequippedwithaninternal
combustionengine.DONOTuseonornear
anyunimproved,forestorbrushcoveredland

unlesstheexhaustsystemisequippedwitha
sparkarrestormeetingapplicablelocal,state
orfederallaws.Asparkarrestor,ifused,

mustbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorder

bytheoperator.SeeyourAriensDealeror
enginemanufacturer'sservicecenter.

EmissionControlSystem

CertificationLabel

NOTE:Tamperingwithemissioncontrolsand
componentsbyunauthorizedpersonnelmay

resultinseverefinesorpenalties.Emission
controlsandcomponentscanonlybe
adjustedbyEPAand/orCARBauthorized
servicecenters.ContactyourAriens

EquipmentRetailerconcerningemission
controlsandcomponentquestions.

Fuelishighlyflammableanditsvaporscan
explode.ONLYuseapprovedfuelcontainers.

NOSmoking!
NOSparks!

NOFlames!
Allowenginetocoolbeforefillingfuel

tank.

Neverfillcontainersinsideavehicleorona
truckortrailerbedwithaplasticliner.Always

placecontainersonthegroundawayfrom
yourvehiclebeforefilling.

Whenpractical,removegas-powered
equipmentfromthetruckortrailerandrefuel

itontheground.Ifthisisnotpossible,then

refuelsuchequipmentonatrailerwitha

portablecontainer,ratherthanfroma
gasolinedispensernozzle.

Keepthenozzleincontactwiththerimofthe
fueltankorcontaineropeningatalltimesuntil
fuelingiscomplete.Donotuseanozzlelock-
opendevice.

Checkfuelsupplybeforestartingengine.

DONOTfillgasolinetankindoors,when

engineisrunning,orwhileengineishot.
Allowenginetocoolseveralminutesbefore

removingfuelcap.

DONOToverfill.Allowabout1!4"(6mm)of

tankspaceforfuelexpansion.

Replacegasolinetankcapsecurelyand

cleananyspilledfuelbeforestartingengine.

Iffuelisspilledonclothing,changeclothing

immediately.

NEVERstorefuelinsidewherethereisan

openflame,suchasawaterheater.
ALWAYSdrainfueloutdoorsawayfrom

ignitionsources.
ALWAYSshutoffandremovekey,engine

whentransportingunitonatruckortrailer.
AvoidElectricShock.DONOTdisconnect
wirefromsparkplugwhileengineisrunning.

DoNOTputbatteryinfireormutilate.
ExplosiveGases!
NOflames,NOsparks,NOsmoking,near

battery.

Poisonousbatteryfluidcontainssulfuricacid.

Contactwithskin,eyesorclothingcancause
severechemicalburns.

ALWAYSwearsafetyglassesandprotective
gearnearbattery.

ALWAYSkeepbatteriesoutofreachof
children.

Batteryposts,terminalsandrelated

accessoriescontainleadandlead
compounds,chemicalsknowntotheStateof

Californiatocausecancerandreproductive
harm.Washhandsafterhandling.

Chargebatteriesinanopen,well-ventilated
area,awayfromsparkandflames.Unplug
chargerbeforeconnectingordisconnecting
battery.Wearprotectiveclothinganduse

insulatedtools.
Accidentalenginestartupcancausedeathor

seriousinjury.Exceptwherespecifically
recommended,ALWAYSstopengine,
removekey(electricstartmodels),waitfor
movingpartstostop,allowpartstocooland
disconnectsparkplugwirebeforeinspecting,
servicing,adjustingorrepairingunit.

Keepmowerfreeofgrass,leaves,orother

debrisbuild-up.

Keepequipmentingoodcondition.
Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstruction

labels,asnecessary.

Followenginemanufacturer'ssafety

instructionwhenservicingengine.

GB-8

Checkallhardwareatregularintervals,
especiallybladeattachmentbolts.Keepall

hardwareproperlytightened.
Anextensionspring,whenextended,stores

energyandcanbedangerous.Alwaysuse
toolsspecificallydesignedforinstallingor

removinganextensionspring.Always
compressorextendspringsslowly.

Beforetippingunit,removefuelandbattery(if
equipped).

Useextracarewhenloadingorunloading

unitontotrailerortruck.

Ensureallwheelblocks,jackstandsandtie
downswillsupportunitduringmaintenance.

Replaceworn-outmufflersimmediately.

Continuedusecouldresultinfireor
explosion.

Sharpedgescancutoramputatefingersora

hand.Wrapbladeorwearsturdyglovesto
service.

=1 i:] 4,d

CAUTION: AVOID INJURY. Read
and understand the entire Safety

section before proceeding.

CARTON CONTENTS

1

2

Onlyreplaceblades.NEVERstraightenor
weldblades.

Useonlyreplacementpartsdesignedforyour

unit.SeeyourAriensDealer.
Allowenginetocoolbeforestoringinany

enclosure.
ALWAYScleanunitbeforeextendedstorage.

Seeenginemanualforproperstorage.

DONOTstoreunitinsideabuildingwithfuel
inthefueltankwhereanyignitionsources
arepresent.

Useonlyaccessorieswhichhavebeen
approvedbyAriensandareproperly

installed.

Useonlyaccessoriesorattachmentsthatare
designedforyourunitandthatcanbeused
safelyonyourterrain.

Checkattachmentsfrequentlyandreplace
wornordamagedcomponentswith
manufacturer'srecommendedparts.

ASSEMBLY

1. Remove all packing materials and straps
from unit.

2. Remove one pair of nuts and bolts from

the handlebars.

3. Rotate the handlebar into the operating

position and connect the two braces to
the handlebars.

4. Replace the nuts removed in step 1 and
then tighten all four nuts.

1. Mower Unit

2. Literature Pack with
Installation Hardware

Figure 3

GB-9

1.HandlebarFoldedDown

2.Nut

3.Brace

5.Checkenginecrankcaseoillevel.See
enginemanual.

6.Connectthebatterygroundcable(-)to
thenegativebatteryterminal.

7.Fillfueltank.SeeFILLING THE FUEL

TANKon page 14.

NOTE: After the first twenty-five hours of

operation, belt wear may require the pro
clutch cable and the drive control cables to be

adjusted. See Forward/Reverse Drive

Controls on page 19 and Wheel Drive Belts

on page 20.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the unit without

understanding how the controls work and
how to safely start, stop and operate the unit.

Figure4

1. Battery Cover

2. Negative (-) Battery Cable

Figure 5

GB - 10

[o_o_o_,,._ r±__ln]l_::W±_uttl_t_

1

2

5

10

4 /

11

6

14

13

/

12

1. PTO Clutch Lever

2. Parking Brake Release Lever

3. Forward Drive Control

4. Reverse Drive Control

5. Handlebars

6. Fuel Tank and Cap

7. Height Adjustment Spacers

8. Muffler

9. Oil Fill/Dipstick

10. Air Filter

11. Fuel Filter

12. Belt Cover

13. Ignition Key

14. Safety Start Switch

15. Throttle/Choke Control

Figure 6

GB- 11

CONTROLS AND FEATURES

See Figure 6 for locations.

WARNING: Improper operation

,_ can lead to injury. Learn what the

controls do and how they work.
Thoroughly read and understand

entire Operator Manual.

CAUTION: AVOID INJURY. Read
and understand the entire Safety

section before proceeding.

Parking Brake Lever (Right Hand

Lever)

Hold the parking brake lever against the
handlebar to release the wheel lock pin and

operate the unit.

Release the parking brake lever to engage

wheel lock pin and prevent the unit from

rolling forward or backward.
IMPORTANT: The wheel lock pin prevents

the unit from rolling forward or backward. The

unit can still pivot from side to side.

Parking Brake Engaged: Unit will
not roll forward or backward.

lever against handlebar to operate
the unit.

PTO Clutch Lever (Left Hand Lever)

Hold down the lock lever and then squeeze
the pto clutch lever against the handlebar to
engage the clutch and start the mower

blades.

Release the clutch lever to stop the blades.

NOTE: The lock lever prevents the pto clutch

lever from being squeezed accidentally. It will
engage each time you release the clutch

lever.

gaged: Hold

PTO Disengaged: Mower blades

stop rotating.

PTO Engaged:
lever and then hold clutch lever

against handlebar to engage the
clutch and start the mower blades.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

DANGER: Avoid injury from

rotating blade.
ALWAYS shut off engine before
adjusting cutting height.

[ ., ,. "- . - . [..]_

Spacers Cut Grass Length

Below Caster

Arms
0 1-3/4" (44.4 mm)

1 2" (50.8 mm)
2 2-1/2" (63.5 mm)
3 2-3/4" (69.8 mm)
4 3" (76.2 mm)
5 3-1/4" (82.6 mm)
6 3-1/2" (88.9 mm)

NOTE: Placing the spacers above the caster

arm lowers the deck and decreases cutting
height. Placing the spacers below the caster

arm raises the deck and increases the cutting
height.

To change cutting height, remove the lock pin
from the top of the caster fork. Raise the

caster arm high enough to expose the flats
and lower pin hole on the caster fork spindle.

Insert the lock pin into the lower hole to

support the arm while adjusting the cutting
height spacers (Figure 7).

GB - 12

LockPin

Flats

Spacers

Removethe
spacersfrom

thestack.

Figure7

Aligntheopenendsofthespacerswiththe
flatsonthecasterspindleandremovethe
spacersoneatatimeuntilenoughareleftat
thebottomforthedesiredcuttingheight.

Removethelockpinwhilesupportingthe

casterarm.Lowerthearmontopofthe

remainingspacers.Putthespacersthatwere
removedinthecasterspindleabovethe

supporttubeasshown(Figure8).

Reinstallthelockpinintothetopholeandflip
overthelockringtosecuretheremaining
spacersandpin.

NOTE:Setbothwheelsatthesameheight

foralevelcut.

Secure

spacers
abovethe

casterarm
withthe

lockpin.

Figure8

Forward Drive Control

(Lower Right Hand Control)

CAUTION: Unit will move at
engine start if the wheel drive

controls are engaged. ALWAYS
release the wheel drive controls

before starting unit.

NOTE: Engine must be running for wheel

drive to propel unit.
To drive forward:

Hold the parking brake lever against the

handlebar and slowly squeeze and hold the
forward drive control. Hold the forward drive

control against the handlebar for fastest
speed.

To stop:

Release forward drive control.

GB - 13

_, / __ ./_ Parking Brake

Forward Drive

Control STOP

OM1240

Reverse Drive Control

(Side Right Hand Control)

CAUTION: Unit will move at

A

engine start if the wheel drive
controls are engaged. ALWAYS

release the wheel drive controls
before starting unit.

To drive in reverse:

Hold the parking brake lever against the

handlebar and slowly squeeze and hold the

reverse drive control. Hold the reverse drive
control against the handlebar for fastest

speed.
To stop:

Release reverse drive control.

__olReverse Drive

__i._ STOP

"_O'_ OM1240

FILLING THE FUEL TANK

To add fuel to fuel tank:

1. Put unit in open or well-ventilated area.

2. Stop engine and allow to cool.

3. Clean fuel cap and surrounding area.

4. Remove cap.

IMPORTANT: See engine manual for correct
type and grade of fuel.

5. Fill fuel tank. (see SPECIFICATIONS on
page 26 for tank capacity.)

6. Replace fuel cap and tighten.

7. ALWAYS clean any spilled fuel.

GASOLINE

IMPORTANT: ALWAYS use gasoline that
meets the following guidelines:

Clean, fresh gasoline.

A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91

RON). High altitude use may require a
different octane. Consult your engine

manual.
Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol

(gasohol) or up to 15% MTBE (methyl
tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.

Use of any gasoline other than those

approved above may void the engine
warranty. If the pumps are not marked
for the content of alcohol or ethers,

check ethanol and MTBE levels with

the fuel supplier.

Do not modify the fuel system to use

different fuels.

Never mix oil and gasoline.

NOTE: All gasoline is not the same. If the
engine experiences starting or performance
problems after using a new gasoline, switch
to a different fuel provider or fuel brand.

IMPORTANT: Excessively oxygenated or
reformulated fuels (fuels blended with
alcohols or ethers) can damage the fuel
system or cause performance problems. If
any undesirable operating problems occur,
use a gasoline with a lower percentage of

alcohol or ether.

Fuel Stabilizer

Gasoline left in the fuel system for extended
periods without a stabilizer will deteriorate,
resulting in gum deposits in the system.
These deposits can damage the carburetor
and the fuel hoses, filter and tank. Prevent
deposits from forming in the fuel system
during storage by adding a quality fuel

stabilizer to the fuel. Follow the
recommended mix ratio found on the fuel
stabilizer container.

GB - 14

EMERGENCY STOPPING

NOTE: The engine will run after the clutch
and parking brake levers are released.
ALWAYS shut off the engine with the ignition

key and remove the key before leaving the
operator's position.

To stop the mower in an emergency:

1. Release the PTO clutch lever and the
parking brake lever.

2. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF"
position.

3. Allow all moving parts to stop before
leaving operator's position.

STARTING AND SHUT OFF

WARNING: Improper operation

A

can lead to injury. Learn what the
controls do and how they work.

Thoroughly read and understand
entire Operator Manual.

See Figure 6 for all Controls and Features.
NOTE: Start engine on a level surface that is

free of debris.

Electric Start

1. Check each item under Before Each
Use in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

on page 16.

2. Place throttle control in the choke
position. Once the engine has started,

place throttle in the high speed detent.

3. Hold down the safety switch on the dash
panel and turn the ignition key to the
Start position.

4. Release the key and the safety switch
once engine starts.

Shut Off

1. Release the pto clutch lever, the parking
brake lever, and the wheel drive controls
and allow unit to stop completely.

2. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF"
position.

Mowing Tips

Cut grass when it is dry.

Keep mower blades sharp.
Do not set cutting height too low. For tall

grass, mow twice.

Do not mow too fast.
Mow with engine at full throttle. Discharge

clippings into areas already cut.
Vary cutting pattern with each mowing.

NOTE: To prevent dirt and grass from
collecting on mower pan, avoid operating
over bare ground with only patches of grass.

Mulching Tips

For best mulching performance, cut no more
than 1 inch (2.54 cm) of grass per cutting.

GB- 15

,_ CAUTION: AVOID INJURY. Read

and understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.

Ariens Dealers will provide any service, parts
or adjustments which may be required to

keep your unit operating at peak efficiency.
Should engine require service, contact an

Ariens Dealer or an authorized engine

manufacturer's service center.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

NOTE: Some working conditions (heavy
loads, high ambient temperatures, dusty

conditions, or airborne debris) may require

more frequent service.
See engine manual for further maintenance

and troubleshooting information.

Service
Performed

Check PTO
Clutch

Check Wheel
Drive Control

Clean Unit
Check Engine

Oil
Check Mower

Blade
Check Drive

Belts
Check

Fasteners
Check Air

Cleaner
Change

Engine Oil
General

Lubrication
Check Spark

Plug
Check Engine

Cooling
Check Muffler

After first 5 Hours of operation.

CHECK PTO CLUTCH LEVER
CONTROL

The engine and blade must stop within 5
seconds after releasing the control. If the
blade continues to run, adjust or repair
control immediately.

NOTE: If the blade makes a scraping sound
when the PTO lever is released, the blade
brake isfaulty. Contact an Ariens Dealer
immediately for repair.

CHECK WHEEL DRIVE CONTROL

The unit must stop quickly and completely
when the drive controls are released. Adjust
or repair if necessary. See Forward/Reverse
Drive Controls on page 19.

CLEAN UNIT

Before each use clean unit, muffler and
engine surfaces of debris, oil or fuel spills to
ensure proper cooling and prevent fires.

NOTE: Do not spray the unit with water,
especially when the unit is warm from
operation. Water can seep into bearings and
damage them.

CHECK ENGINE OIL

IMPORTANT: Maintain proper oil level at all
times or engine damage will result.

Check the level of the engine crankcase oil
before each use.

Make sure engine is level when checking oil.
See engine manual for instructions.

CHECK MOWER BLADE

See Figure 10.
Check blade mounting: blade must be secure

and bolt torqued to 80 - 120 Ibf-ft
(108.4 - 162.7 Nom) (bolt should fully
compress lock washer).

Check blade for nicks and dull cutting edges.
Sharpen if necessary.

Check blade for rounded or broken ends,
thinned metal or other damage. Replace if
necessary.

NOTE: Blades should be sharpened and
balanced professionally. Contact your Ariens

Dealer.
To remove blade:

1. Stop engine, wait for all moving parts to
stop, and disconnect spark plug wire.

2. Block blade to prevent rotation.

3. Remove mounting hardware and mower
blades from mower deck. See Figure 9.

GB - 16

Toinstallblade:

1.Installmowerbladesonmowerdeck
withmountinghardware.

2.Torqueboltto80- 120Ibf-ft
(108.4- 162.7N°m)(boltshouldfully
compresslockwasher).

3.Connectsparkplugwire.

I 2

DO NOT Sharpen to This Pattern

1 2

DISCARD If More Than
1/2 in. (1.27 cm) 2

--

1.FlatWasher

2.MowerBlade

3.BellvilleWasher

4.Bolt
Figure9

Sharpen the Mower Blades

CAUTION: DO NOT sharpen
mower blades while on unit. An

imbalanced mower blade will
cause excessive vibration and

eventual damage to unit. Check
mower blade balance before

reinstalling blades.
NEVER weld or straighten bent

blades.

1. Remove mower blade from unit.

Discard mower blade if:

More than 1/2 in. (1.27 cm) of metal is
removed.

Air lifts become eroded.
Blade is bent or broken.

2. Sharpen mower blade by removing an
equal amount of material from each end
of mower blade. DO NOT change angle
of cutting edge or round the corner of the

mower blade.

4

Sharpen to This Pattern

1. Square Corner

2. Cutting Edge

3. Air Lift

4. Air Lift Erosion

3. Check mower blade balance.
Slide mower blade on an unthreaded

bolt. A balanced blade should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of

mower blade moves downward, sharpen
the heavy end until blade is balanced
(Figure 11).

Blade

Bolt

3 OT0792

Figure 10

Figure 11

4. Install mower blade on unit.

5. Tighten the bolts to a torque of
80- 120 Ibf-ft (108.4- 162.7 N°m).

GB - 17

CHECK DRIVE BELTS

Check drive belts and replace if worn or

damaged. See Wheel Drive Belts on page 20.

CHECK FASTENERS

Check all fasteners for proper tightness. Pay
special attention to blade hardware and all
guards, shields and safety devices.

CHECK AIR CLEANER

See engine manual for specific information.

CHANGE ENGINE OIL

IMPORTANT: Change engine crankcase oil

after first five (5) hours of operation. Then
change oil after every 25 hours of operation.

Refer to engine manual for instructions and

proper oil type.

IMPORTANT: Proper oil level must be

maintained at all times or engine damage will

result. DO NOT overfill. Be sure engine is

level when adding oil.

GENERAL LUBRICATION

The unit has sealed maintenance-free
spindles and transmission. The unit should

not require lubrication except for light oil or
grease at pivot points.

CHECK SPARK PLUG

Spark plug should be replaced every 100
hours of operation or each year.

NOTE: Loose spark plug wire terminals can
cause sparking. Replace terminal if
damaged.

CHECK ENGINE COOLING

WARNING: HOT SURFACES can

,&

cause death or serious injury. DO
NOT TOUCH parts which are hot

from operation. ALWAYS allow
parts to cool.

To prevent overheating, air must circulate
freely around the cooling fins, cylinder head

and block.

Every 100 hours of operation or yearly (more
often if conditions require) remove blower
housing and clean cooling fins. See engine

manual for instructions.

CHECK MUFFLER

Check muffler for debris, cracks, wear, or
other damage.

CAUTION: Replace worn-out

,_ mufflers immediately. Continued

use could result in fire or
explosion.

GB - 18

,_ CAUTION: AVOID INJURY. Read

and understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.

PTO CLUTCH

WARNING: If you cannot adjust
the controls so the unit drives

properly, immediately take the unit
to your local authorized dealer for

repairs.

1. Test the pto clutch adjustment.
With the clutch disengaged, the blade

brake should touch the brake drum.
With the clutch engaged, the blade

brake should not touch the brake drum
and the deck belt should be under
tension.

2. Loosen the lock nut on the cable
adjuster under the dash panel.

3. Turn the adjuster body to tighten or
loosen the clutch cable.

NOTE: There must be some slack in the

clutch cable with the clutch disengaged.

4. Tighten the lock nut to hold the
adjustment.

IMPORTANT: If you cannot adjust the pto

clutch or if it fails to operate properly,

immediately take the unit to your Ariens

dealer for repair.

Forward/Reverse Drive Controls

WARNING: If you cannot adjust
the controls so the unit drives

properly, immediately take the unit
to your local authorized dealer for

repairs.

After new belts have been worn in or if the
drive seems to be losing power, the drive

control cable may need adjustment.
Adjust both drive controls the same way.

1. Loosen the lock nut on the drive lever.

2. Turn the cable adjuster to tighten or
loosen the cable.

3. Tighten the lock nut to hold the
adjustment.

4. Test the drive.
Unit should move forward when the
drive control is squeezed and it should

coast to a stop when the drive control is
released.

NOTE: The reverse drive control has been

removed from the unit for clarity of the
illustration.

1. Cable 3. Check
Adjuster Slack

2. Lock Nut
Figure 12

1. Cable 2. Lock Nut
Adjuster

Figure 13

GB - 19