Zoom XLo
Owner/Operator Manual
Manuel Du Proprietaire/Utilisateur
Models
915137 - 2042 Zoom XL
915139 - 2548 Zoom XL
ENGLISH
FRAN(_AIS
03829100A 8/09
Printed in USA
SAFETY .......................... 4
ASSEMBLY ....................... 9
CONTROLS AND FEATURES ....... 11
OPERATION ..................... 12
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ........ 15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ..... 16
STORAGE ....................... 24
TROUBLESHOOTING ............. 25
SERVICE PARTS ................. 27
ACCESSORIES ................... 27
SPECIFICATIONS ................. 28
WARRANTY ..................... 30
NON-ENGLISH MANUALS
Manuals in languages other than
English may be obtained from your
Dealer. Visit your dealer or
www.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:
htt p://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 www.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 chezvotre revendeur. Rendez-vous
chez votre revendeur ou allez sur
THE MANUAL
Before operation of unit, carefully and
completely read your manuals. The contents
will provide you with an understanding of
safety instructions and controls during normal
operation and maintenance.
All reference to left, right, front, or rear are
given from operator seated in operation
position and facing the direction of forward
travel.
MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS
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 printed on a serial number label,
located on the frame of your unit (figure 1).
consulter la liste des langues
le site www.ariens.com pour
disponibles pour votre equipement.
Les manuels imprimes dans des
langues differentes de I'anglais
sont egalement disponibles en
telechargement gratuit sur notre
site Web:
htt p://www.ariens.co m
1. Unit Serial Number Label
2. Engine Serial Number Label
Figure 1
GB-2
RecordUnitModelandSerialnumbers
here.
RecordEngineModelandSerial
numbershere.
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.
UNAUTHORIZED REPLACEMENT
PARTS
Use only Ariens replacement parts. The
replacement of any part on this unit with
anything other than an Ariens authorized
replacement part may adversely affect the
performance, durability, and 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.
DELIVERY
Customer Note: If you have purchased this
product without complete assembly and
instruction by your retailer, it is your
responsibility to:
Read and understand all assembly
instructions in this manual. If you do not
understand or have difficulty following
the instructions, contact your nearest
Ariens Dealer for assistance.
NOTE: To locate your nearest Ariens Dealer,
go to www.ariens.com on the internet.
,_ WARNING: Improper assembly oradjustments can cause serious
injury.
Before Attempting To Operate Your
Unit:
1. Make sure all assembly has been
properly completed.
2. Understand all Safety Precautions
provided in the manuals.
3. Review control functions and operation
of the unit. Do not operate the unit
unless all controls function as described
in this manual.
4. Review recommended lubrication,
maintenance and adjustments.
5. Review Limited Warranty Policy.
6. Fill out a product registration card and
return the card to the Ariens Company or
go to www.ariens.com.
DISCLAIMER
Ariens reserves the right to discontinue,
change, and improve its products at any time
without notice or obligation to the purchaser.
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 be
applicable to your unit.
GB-3
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 loss-of-control and tip-over
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.
Disengage attachment, stop unit
and engine, remove key, engage
parking brake, 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!
[,='Y-,1_1=11"4
_ WARNING: POTENTIALLY
NOTATIONS
NOTE: General reference information for
proper operation and maintenance practices.
IMPORTANT: Specific procedures or
information required to prevent damage to
unit or attachment.
SAFETY DECALS AND
LOCATIONS
ALWAYS replace missing or damaged Safety
Decals. Refer to figure 2 for Safety Decal
locations.
1. Caution!
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
DANGER: IMMINENTLY
avoided, WILL RESULT in death or
serious injury.
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, COULD RESULT in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION: POTENTIALLY
HAZARDOUS SITUATION! If not
avoided, MAY RESULT in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be
used to alert against unsafe
practices.
Involved!
Personal Safety Is
Become Alert!
Obey The Message!
The safety alert symbol is used in decals and
with this manual. Understand the safety
message. It contains important information
about personal safety.
Maximum Tongue weight: 30 Ibs.
Maximum Trailer weight: 300 Ibs.
Do not use hitch with bagger attached.
Do not use on steep hills or slopes.
Do not park on hills when trailer is
attached.
Do not use with any ground engaging
equipment.
GB-4
2. Danger!
5
Figure2
OL1816
3. Danger!
OL1809
OL1812
Avoid injury - Stay clear of
rotating parts•
Always keep feet and hands
away from rotating parts•
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.
(_ O STEP! Always keep feet
away from rotating parts.
OL1813
4. Warning!
Always stand clear of discharge
area•
©L1814
Do not operate mower unless
bagger is attached or guards are
in operating position.
OLI815
5. Danger! To Avoid Serious Injury or
Death
Read the operator's manual.
OLt801
| Keep children and others away
from unit while operating.
OL1802
GB-5
Never direct discharge toward
other people. Thrown objects
can cause injury.
(ram)
Fill fuel tanks to 2-1/2 in.
(6.35 cm) below bottom of filler
neck.
Look down and behind before
and while backing.
0L1804
Never carry children.
0L1806
Go up and down slopes, not
across.
DO NOT operate on slopes over
OL1807 10°.
• If machine stops going uphill, stop
blade and back down slowly.
• Avoid sudden turns.
• Keep safety devices (guards, shields,
switches, etc.) in place and working.
• Check interlock system per manual
before use.
• Understand location and function of all
controls.
Never allow operation by untrained
persons.
Disengage PTO, stop unit and engine,
set parking brake and remove key
before making any inspections, repairs,
etc.
6. Hot Surfaces!
DO NOT touch parts which are
hot from operation. ALWAYS
allow parts to cool.
OL1801
7. Caution!
No smoking.
Never fill fuel tank when engine is
running, hot or unit is indoors. Never
overfill fuel tank.
Replace fuel cap securely and clean up
spilled fuel.
Emission Control System
Certification Label
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.
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.
Only the user can prevent and is responsible
for accidents or injuries occurring to
themselves, other people or property.
Read, understand, and follow all safety
practices in Owner/Operator Manual before
assembling, using or working on this mower.
ALWAYS remove key from ignition and wire
from spark plug before assembly, or working
on this unit.
Inspect unit before each use for: missing or
damaged decals and shields, correctly
operating safety interlock system, and
deterioration of grass catchers. Replace or
repair as needed.
ALWAYS check overhead and side
clearances carefully before operation.
ALWAYS be aware of traffic when crossing or
operating along streets or curbs.
Keep children, people, and pets away. Be
alert and shut off unit if anyone enters work
area. Keep children under watchful care of a
responsible adult.
NEVER allow children to operate or play on
or near unit.
Keep area of operation clear of all toys, and
debris. Thrown objects can cause injury.
Stay alert for hidden hazards, holes, and ruts.
GB-6
Avoidunevenorroughterrain.DONOT
operateneardrop-offs,ditches,or
embankments.Unitcansuddenlyturnoverif
awheelisovertheedgeofaclifforditch,orif
anedgecavesin.
Dust,fog,etc.canreducevisionandcause
anaccident.Operateunitonlywhenthereis
goodvisibilityandlight.
Dataindicatesthatoperators,age60and
above,areinvolvedinalargerpercentageof
ridingmowerrelatedinjuries.These
operatorsshouldevaluatetheirabilityto
operatetheridingmowersafelyenoughto
protectthemselvesandothersfromserious
injury.
Wearadequatesafetygear,sturdyshoes,
andprotectivegloves.
Onlytrainedadultsmayoperateunit.Training
includesbeingfamiliarwithcontrolsand
actualoperation.
NEVERoperateunitafterorduringtheuseof
medication,drugsoralcohol.
NEVERallowanyonetooperatethisunit
whentheiralertnessorcoordinationis
impaired.
DONOTwearlooseclothingorjewelryand
tiebackhairthatmaygetcaughtinrotating
parts.
Protecteyes,faceandheadfromobjectsthat
maybethrownfromunit.Wearappropriate
hearingprotection.Alwayswearsafety
gogglesorsafetyglasseswithsideshields
whenoperatingmower.
Avoidsharpedges.Sharpedgescancut.
Movingpartscancutofffingersorahand.
ALWAYSkeephandsandfeetawayfromall
rotatingpartsduringoperation.Rotatingparts
cancutoffbodyparts.
ALWAYSkeephandsawayfromallpinch
points.
Startandoperateunitonlywhenseatedin
operator'sposition.Steeringcontrollevers
mustbeinneutral,PTOdisengagedand
parkingbrakesetwhenstartingengine.
ALWAYSkeepbodyandhandsawayfrom
pinholesornozzleswhichejecthydraulic
fluidunderpressure.
DONOTtouchunitpartswhichmightbehot
fromoperation.Allowpartstocoolbefore
attemptingtomaintain,adjustorservice.
NEVERplaceyourhandsoranypartofyour
bodyorclothinginsideornearanymoving
partwhileunitisrunning.
NEVERdirectdischargetowardspersonsor
property.Thrownobjectsmayricochetback
towardsoperator.ALWAYSstandclearofthe
dischargearea.
ALWAYSdisengageattachment,stopunit
andengine,removekey,engageparking
brake,andallowmovingpartstostopbefore
leavingoperator'sposition.
Useextremecautionongravelsurfaces.
DisengagePTOwhenattachmentisnotin
useandwhencrossinggravelsurfaces.
DONOToperateunitifsafetyinterlock
systemisdamagedordisabled.Checksafety
interlockbeforeeachuse.
ALWAYSremovekeytopreventunauthorized
use.
DO NOT operate at too fast a rate. Slow
down before turning.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or
unclogging chute.
DO NOT mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
DO NOT mow with the deck access plate
open. Always make sure the access plate is
down, or secured down, with the hardware.
DO NOT try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
Know the weight of loads. Limit loads to those
you can safely control and the unit can safely
handle.
ALWAYS keep protective structures, guards
and panels in good repair, in place and
securely fastened.
Do not operate without either entire grass
catcher or the discharge guard in place.
DO NOT operate in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. ALWAYS look down and behind
before and while backing; especially for
children.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations
for wheel weights or counterweights to
improve stability when using attachments.
NEVER carry passengers-especially
children-even with blades off.
Use extra care when approaching blind
corners or objects that may obscure vision of
hidden obstacles and children.
If you cannot back up a slope or you feel
uneasy on it, do not mow it.
Mow up and down slopes, not across them.
Use slow speed on any slope. Tires may lose
traction on slopes even though the brakes are
functioning properly.
GB-7
Keepallmovementsontheslopeslow and
gradual, DO NOT make sudden changes in
speed or direction.
Use extra care while operating machines with
grass catcher or other attachments. They can
affect stability of the machine.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a
slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT operate on slopes over 10°.
DO NOT park on slopes unless necessary. If
unit is parked on a slope, ALWAYS chock or
block wheels and set parking brake.
DO NOT disengage or bypass transmission
and coast downhill.
Tow only with a machine that has a hitch
designed for towing. Do not attach towed
equipment except at the hitch point.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations
for weight limits for towed equipment and
towing on slopes.
NEVER allow children or others in or on
towed equipment.
On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment
may cause loss of traction and loss of control.
Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
Use extra care when loading or unloading
unit onto trailer or truck.
Secure unit chassis to transport vehicle.
NEVER secure from rods or linkages that
could be damaged.
DO NOT transport machine while engine is
running.
ALWAYS turn off power to attachment and
shut off fuel when transporting unit.
Keep unit free of grass clippings, leaves, and
other debris. Clean up oil or fuel spills.
This product is equipped with an internal
combustion type engine. DO NOT use unit on
or near any unimproved, forest-covered or
brush covered land unless exhaust system is
equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local, state or federal laws. A spark
arrester, if it is used, must be maintained in
effective working order by operator.
Fuel is highly flammable and its vapors are
explosive. Handle with care. Use an
approved fuel container.
NO smoking, NO sparks, NO flames.
ALWAYS allow engine to cool before
servicing.
NEVER fill fuel tank when engine is running
or hot from operation.
NEVER fill or drain fuel tank indoors.
NEVER overfill fuel tank.
Replace fuel cap securely and clean up
spilled fuel.
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 lock-
open device.
If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
Avoid Electric Shock. Objects contacting both
battery terminals at the same time may result
in injury and unit damage. DO NOT reverse
battery connections.
Explosive Gases from battery can cause
death or serious injury. Poisonous battery
fluid contains sulfuric acid and its contact with
skin, eyes or clothing can cause severe
chemical burns.
NO flames, NO sparks, NO smoking near
battery.
ALWAYS wear safety glasses and protective
gear near battery. Use insulated tools.
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.
ALWAYS keep batteries out of reach of
children.
Reverse connections may result in sparks
which can cause serious injury. Always
connect positive (+) lead of charger to
positive (+) terminal, and negative (-) lead to
negative (-) terminal.
ALWAYS disconnect negative (-) cable FIRST
and positive (+) cable SECOND. ALWAYS
connect positive (+) cable FIRST, and
negative (-)cable SECOND.
A frozen battery can explode and result in
death or serious injury. DO NOT charge or
jump start a battery containing frozen fluid.
Thaw the battery before putting on a charger
or jump starting.
GB-8
ALWAYSkeepprotectivestructures,guards,
andpanelsingoodrepair,inplaceand
securelyfastened.NEVERmodifyorremove
safetydevices.
DONOTchangeenginegovernorsettingsor
over-speedengine.
Fumesfromengineexhaustcancauseinjury
ordeath.DONOTrunengineinanenclosed
area.Alwaysprovidegoodventilation.
ALWAYSmaintainunitinsafeoperating
condition.Damagedorwornoutmufflercan
causefireorexplosion.
Stopandinspectequipmentifyoustrikean
objectorifthereisanunusualvibration.
Repair,ifnecessary,beforerestarting.Never
makeadjustmentsorrepairswiththeengine
running.
Mowerbladesaresharpandcancutyou.
Wraptheblade(s)orweargloves,anduse
extracautionwhenservicingthem.NEVER
weldorstraightenmowerblades.
Rotationofoneblademaycauserotationof
theotherblades.
_[.,."_"]::1_v_I:)_"d
,_ WARNING: AVOID INJURY. Readand understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.
Tools Required
Adjustable wrench
9/16" wrench
Petroleum jelly or dielectric grease.
Unpack Unit
Remove unit and all other components from
the shipping container. Engage transmission
bypass lever (see MOVING UNIT
MANUALLYon page 14). Push unit from
container onto a level surface. Disengage
transmission bypass lever.
Connect Battery
See Battery Removal and Installation on
page 20 and perform steps 2 and 3 in the
installation section.
Place Unit in Operating Position
(figure 3):
NOTE: The unit is shipped with the seat
positioned as far back as possible.
1. Tip seat forward and adjust the seat as
needed (see ADJUSTING STEERING
LEVERS on page 21).
Checkbrakeoperationfrequently.Adjustand
serviceasrequired.
Keepallhardwareproperlytightened.
Storedenergyinspringscancauseinjury.
Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstruction
labels,asnecessary.
Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainer
insideabuildingwherethereisanopen
flame,suchasawaterheater.
Shutofffuel(ifprovided)andallowengineto
coolcompletelybeforestoringinclosedarea
orcoveringunit.
Cleangrassanddebrisfromunit,especially
fromaroundmufflerandengine,tohelp
preventfires.
Forextendedstorage,cleanunitthoroughly.
SeeEngineManualforproperstorage.
Useonlyattachmentsoraccessories
designedforyourunit.
Checkattachmentcomponentsfrequently.If
wornordamaged,replacewith
manufacturer'srecommendedparts.
2. Remove eccentric spacers and rotate
steering levers to the operating position.
reinstall spacers. Do not tighten.
3. Adjust steering levers (see ADJUSTING
STEERING LEVERS on page 21).
2
1. Seat
2. Steering Lever
3. Eccentric
4. Handlebar
Brackets
Figure 3
GB-9
Check Engine Oil Level
1.Refer to Engine Manual.
Level Mower Deck
See on page 17.
Fill Fuel Tanks
See FILLING FUEL TANKSon page 13.
Adjust Seat
See Adjusting Seat on page 13.
Check Safety Interlock System
WARNING: Safety interlock failure
and improper operation of unit can
result in death or serious injury.
Check system before each use to
make sure it is functioning
properly.
See Safety Interlock System on page 12.
Check function of all controls
See OPERATION on page 12.
Check Tire Pressure
CAUTION: Avoid injury!
Explosive separation of tire and
rim parts is possible when they
are serviced incorrectly:
Do not attempt to mount a
tire without the proper
equipment and experience
to perform the job.
Do not inflate the tires above
the recommended pressure.
Do not weld or heat a wheel
and tire assembly. Heat can
cause an increase in air
pressure resulting in an
explosion. Welding can
structurally weaken or
deform the wheel.
Do not stand in front or over
the tire assembly when
inflating. Use a clip-on chuck
and extension hose long
enough to allow you to stand
to one side.
See SERVICE PARTS on page 27.
GB - 10
[_o]_jij_[o]l_,,.']r-'__,In_]I_1_-'_nt_"]
11
10
1. IgnitionSwitch
2. PTO Switch
3. Throttle Lever
4. Seat
5. Steering Levers
6. Parking Brake
7. Fuel Tanks
8. Mower Lift Pedal
9. Mower Deck
10. Discharge Chute
11. Fuel Gauge
12. Choke Control
13. Hour meter
Figure 4
13
12
GB- 11
A ARNING:AVOIDINJURY.ReadandunderstandtheentireSafety
section before proceeding.
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
See figure 4 for all controls and features
locations.
Safety Interlock System
Throttle Lever
Fast (1) - Increases
engine speed.
WARNING: Safety interlock failure
and improper operation of unit can
result in death or serious injury.
Check system before each use to
make sure it is functioning
properly.
Perform the following tests to ensure the
safety interlock system is working properly. If
the unit does not perform as stated contact
our Ariens dealer for repairs.
Test Steering PTO Parking Engine
Lever Brake
1 Neutral Off Engaged Starts
Position
2 Neutral On Engaged Doesn't
Position Start
3 Neutral Off Disengaged Doesn't
Position Start
4*+ Out of Off Disengaged Shuts
Neutral Off
Position
5*+ Neutral On Engaged Shuts
Position Off
* Test with engine running.
+ Operator lifts off seat.
Ignition Switch
1
Operate ignition
switch with a
removable key.
Ignition switch has
four positions:
Stop (1), Headlight
(2), Run (3), Start (4).
See STARTING AND
SHUTTING OFF
ENGINE on page 14
for detailed
instructions on how to
start engine.
Slow (2) - Decreases
engine speed.
Choke Control
Use to start a cold
engine. Push the choke
lever forward to start a
cold engine. Pull the
choke lever to the rear
when the engine gets
wa rm.
Parking Brake
Engages (2) and
disengages (1) parking
brake.
2
Power Take-Off (PTO) Switch
Engages (2)
O =2_<_C3 1 anddisengages(1)mower
blades.
Hour Meter
Records total number of
hours engine has been run.
NOTE: Hour meter will
continue to run if ignition key
is left in the run position with
the engine turned off.
GB - 12
SteeringLevers
Reverse(1)-Pullbothsteeringlevers
backward.
Forward(2)- Pushbothsteeringlevers
forward.
Left(3)- Pullleftsteeringleverbackor
pushrightsteeringleverforwardora
combinationofboth.
Right(4)- Pullrightsteeringleverback
orpushleftsteeringleverforwardora
combinationofboth.
NOTE: To stop, return both steering levers to
neutral.
NOTE: The steering levers must be in the
neutral position to start the engine.
NOTE: The parking brake must be
disengaged prior to moving the steering
levers from the neutral position.
Mower Lift Pedal (figure 5)
Raises and lowers the deck.
1 3
1. Adjustment Pin
2. Mower Lift Pedal
3. Adjustment Hole
Figure 5
NOTE: The adjustment pin is used to set the
height of the mower deck. See
SPECIFICATIONS on page 28 for cutting
height dimensions.
2
Pressmowerliftpedalandinstalladjustment
pininthedesiredadjustmenthole.
NOTE:Adjustingtheseat
furtherforwardwillhelp
increasetheleveragein
liftingthemowerdeck(see
FILLING FUEL TANKS on
page 13).
Adjusting Seat
Lift adjustment lever and slide seat forward or
backward to the desired position.
1. Seat
2. Adjustment Lever
Figure 6
FILLING FUEL TANKS
1. Clean fuel caps and surrounding area to
prevent dust, dirt, and debris from
entering fuel tanks.
2. Remove fuel caps.
IMPORTANT: See Engine Manual for correct
type and grade of fuel.
3. Fill fuel tanks to 2-1/2 in. (6.35 cm)
below bottom of filler neck. See
SPECIFICATIONS on page 28 for
capacity of fuel tanks.
4. Replace fuel caps.
GB - 13
STOPPING IN AN EMERGENCY
Bring steering levers back to neutral, set
parking brake, and turn off engine.
MOVING UNIT MANUALLY
or bypass transmission and coast
WARNING: DO NOT disengage
downhill.
Disengage (2) transmission bypass levers to
drive unit and engage (1) transmission
bypass levers to push unit manually
(figure 7).
1. Transmission Bypass Lever Engaged
2. Transmission Bypass Lever
Disengaged
Figure 7
STARTING AND SHUTTING OFF
ENGINE
Starting the Engine
NOTE: Disengage the PTO, engage the
parking brake, and place the steering levers
in neutral prior to starting the engine.
1. If the engine is cold, move the choke
control to the On position. If the engine
is warm or hot, do not use choke.
2. Move the throttle to 1/3 Fast position.
See Engine Manual for detailed
instructions.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT operate starter for
more than 15 seconds per minute as damage
can occur.
3. Turn ignition key to start position and
release once the engine has started.
4. Move the choke control to the Off
position. Wait until the engine is running
smoothly before operation.
IMPORTANT: Let the engine warm up
several seconds to several minutes
depending on outside temperature.
Stopping the Engine
1. Stop unit.
2. Disengage PTO.
3. Set throttle lever to slow.
4. Turn ignition switch to off position and
remove key.
5. Set parking brake.
OPERATING MOWER
1. Start engine.
2. Set throttle lever to fast.
IMPORTANT: Never engage PTO if mower is
plugged with grass or other material.
3. Engage PTO to start mower blades.
NOTE: The parking brake must be
disengaged prior to moving the steering
levers from the neutral lockout position.
4. Release parking brake.
5. Use steering levers to move the unit.
6. Disengage PTO to stop mower blades.
TRANSPORTING UNIT
ALWAYS shut off engine, set parking brake,
remove key, and close fuel shut-off valve or
drain fuel when transporting unit on a truck or
trailer. Tie unit down securely. Do not tie
down by linkages, guards, cables or other
parts that may be damaged.
GB - 14
FOR BEST PERFORMANCE
Cut grass when it is dry.
Keep mower blades sharp.
Keep mower deck properly leveled.
Adjust anti-scalp rollers to prevent scalping.
Do not set height of cut too low. For very tall
grass, mow twice.
Do not travel too fast.
,_ WARNING: AVOID INJURY. Readand understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.
IMPORTANT: Proper maintenance can
prolong the life of unit. The following chart
shows the recommended service schedule.
Refer to the maintenance instructions in the
Engine Manual for additional information.
Interval
Each Use
Task ' Action
Check _ WARNING: Safety interlock system failure and improper
Safety _ operation of unit can result in death or serious injury. Test
Interlock this system each time the unit is operated. If this system
System does not function as described, do not operate until repairs
Check Engage parking brake and engage transmission bypass lever (see
Parking MOVING UNIT MANUALLY on page 14). Push unit. If unit rolls,
Brake contact your Ariens Dealer.
Clean Unit Clean engine, battery, seat, mower deck, etc. of all dirt and debris. Do
Check A CAUTION: Avoid injury! Explosive separation of tire and rim
Tires _ parts is possible when they are serviced incorrectly:
Check
Mower
Blades
not use solvents, hard cleaners, or abrasives.
Do not spray the unit with water, especially when the unit is warm from
operation. Water can seep into bearings and damage them.
NOTE: Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax.
See SPECIFICATIONS on page 28 for correct tire pressure.
CAUTION: Check for worn or damaged mower blades.
are made (see Safety Interlock System on page 12).
•Do not attempt to mount a tire without the proper equipment
and experience to perform the job.
Do not inflate the tires above the recommended pressure.
Do not weld or heat a wheel and tire assembly. Heat can cause
an increase in air pressure resulting in an explosion. Welding can
structurally weaken or deform the wheel.
Do not stand in front or over the tire assembly when inflating. Use
a clip-on chuck and extension hose long enough to allow you to
stand to one side.
Mow with the engine set at full throttle.
When mulching, only remove 1/3 of grass
length per cutting.
Discharge clippings into areas already cut.
Vary cutting pattern with each mowing.
Do not allow grass or debris to collect inside
of mower deck. Clean after each use.
NOTE: To have full access to the engine, the
seat must be tipped forward (see TIPPING
SEAT FORWARD on page 16) and the hood
opened (see OPENING AND CLOSING
HOOD on page 17).
GB- 15
Interval Task' Action
Follow Perform scheduled engine __!:_
Engine maintenance. Refer to _
Mainten- detailed instructions.
Manual Engine Manual for
Each Use Schedule use the oil drain
25 Hours
or Every
Season
50 Hours Check Check mower blade mounting hardware and all other fasteners.
or Every Fasteners Replace fasteners that are missing or damaged. Tighten all nuts and
Season bolts to the correct torque value.
Hours or
Every on page 22 for hydrostatic belt location).
Season Check PTO belt (see REPLACING PTO BELT on page 22 for
ance NOTE: To drain the oil,
petcock (1) supplied with
unit, not the drain plug that
is shown in the Engine
Manual.
Check Keep battery and battery terminals clean (see Cleaning Battery and
Battery Battery Cables on page 20).
Lubricate Apply grease to zerk (1) on each
Unit front wheel
1
Check All Replace worn or deteriorated belts.
100 Belts Check hydrostatic belt (see REPLACING HYDROSTATIC BELT
PTO belt location).
[,._o]_l r_,l_,II] V_,!I]_lZ,.'9111_vtI=1_,/ I_.1
_ ARNING: AVOID INJURY. Readand understand the entire Safety
section before proceeding.
TIPPING SEAT FORWARD
Put steering levers up and tip seat forward.
1. Seat Tipped Forward
Figure 8
GB - 16
OPENING AND CLOSING HOOD
To open, pull up on the back of the hood until
hood hits the hood stop and push down on
back of hood to close (figure 9).
Hood tipped open.
Figure 9
OPENING DECK ACCESS PLATE
1. Install adjustment pin in the first
adjustment hole (figure 10).
2. Put parking brake on.
3. Raise deck access plate.
REPLACING MOWER BLADE
Remove (Figure 11)
CAUTION: Mower blades are
sharp and can cut you. Wrap the
blades or wear gloves, and use
extra caution when servicing them.
1. Block mower blades to prevent rotation.
2. Remove mounting hardware and mower
blades from mower deck.
Install (Figure 11)
1. Install mower blades on mower deck
with mounting hardware.
2. Torque 5/8-inch hex bolt to 80 to
120 Ibf-ft (108 to 163 N.m).
1
f
1. Adjustment Pin
2. Deck Access plate
Figure 10
GB - 17
1.
Flat Washer
2.
Bevel Washer
3.
5/8-inch Hex Bolt
4.
Mower Blade
Figure 11
LEVELLING AND ADJUSTING
PITCH OF MOWER DECK
NOTE: Adjust on a level surface, with the
tires inflated to the correct air pressure (see
SPECIFICATIONS on page 28).
There are three measurements required to
level and adjust the pitch of the mower deck.
1. The distance from the mower blades to
the ground.
2. The forward pitch of the mower blades.
3. The pitch of the mower blades from
side-to-side.
The Distance From The Mower
Blades To The Ground (Figure 12):
In the lowest cutting position should be
1-1/2 in. + 1/4 in. (3.8 cm + 0.64 cm).
In the highest cutting position should be
4-1/2 in. + 1/4 in. (11.4 cm + 0.64 cm).
Lowest Cutting Position
3 1
1-1/2 in. + 1/4 in. (3.8 cm + 0.64 cm)
Highest Cutting Position
3 1
2
The Forward Pitch Of The Mower
Blades (Figure 13):
Should be 0.0 in. (0.0 mm) to 1/4 in.
(6.35 mm) pitched forward.
NOTE: This measurement must be taken
when the mower blades ends are facing
forward.
Forward Pitch of Mower Blades
3 1 2
I _ _M!we'r
Forward Pitch = 0.0 in. (0.0 mm) to 1/4
in. (6.35 mm)
1. Mower Deck
2. Mower Blade
3. Ground
Figure 13
The Pitch Of The Mower Blades From
Side-To-Side (Figure 14):
Should be within 1/4 in. (6.35 mm) as
measured on each side of the mower
deck.
NOTE: This measurement must be taken
when the mower blade ends are
perpendicular (at a right angle) to the frame
of the unit.
Side-To-Side Pitch
4-1/2 in. + 1/4 in. (11.4 cm + 0.64 cm)
1. Mower Deck
2. Mower Blade
3. Ground
Figure 12
1/4-in. (6.35 cm)from Side-To-Side
1. Mower Deck
2. Mower Blade
3. Ground
Figure 14
GB - 18
Adjusting The Mower Deck To Adjust
Mower Blade Height And Pitch
(Figure 16):
NOTE: Adjusting the mower deck will adjust
the height and pitch of the mower blades.
1. Adjust the trunnions first and re-take the
three measurements required to level
and adjust the pitch of the mower deck.
These measurements are:
a. The distance from the mower
blades to the ground.
b. The forward pitch of the mower
blades.
c. The pitch of the mower blades
from side-to-side.
2. Repeat step 1 as needed until all three
measurements are within the tolerances
specified.
3 5
1. Rear Trunnion
2. PTO Belt
3. Mower Deck
4. Drag Link
5. Front Trunnion
6. Lift Arm
Figure 15
1. Deck Link
2. Mower Deck
3. Trunnion
Figure 16
SERVICING BATTERY
NOTE: Unit comes equipped with a
maintenance-free battery that requires no
regular maintenance except cleaning the
terminals and periodic charging.
terminals and related accessories
,_ WARNING: Battery posts,
contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
GB - 19
Battery Removal and Installation
Remove (Figure 17)
1. Tip seat forward (see TIPPING SEAT
FORWARD on page 16).
2. Disconnect negative (-) cable first, then
positive (+) cable.
3. Loosen and remove bolts.
4. Remove battery hold-down bracket and
battery from unit.
2 1 2
1. Battery Hold-Down Bracket
2. Bolts
Figure 17
Install (Figure 18)
1. Install battery on the unit with battery
hold-down bracket.
2. Connect positive (+) cable first, then
negative (-) cable.
3. Apply petroleum jelly or dielectric grease
to battery cable ends and terminals.
4. Tip seat back (see TIPPING SEAT
FORWARD on page 16).
Cleaning Battery and Battery Cables
(Figure 18)
1. Tip seat forward (see TIPPING SEAT
FORWARD on page 16).
2. Disconnect negative (-) cable first, then
positive (+) cable.
3. Clean battery cable ends, negative (-)
terminal, and positive (+) terminal with a
wire brush and rinse with a weak baking
soda solution.
4. Connect positive (+) cable first, then
negative (-) cable.
5. Apply petroleum jelly or dielectric grease
to battery cable ends and terminals.
6. Tip seat back (see TIPPING SEAT
FORWARD on page 16).
6 4
2 3 1
1. Battery Hold-Down Bracket
2. Negative (-) Cable
3. Negative (-) Terminal
4. Battery
5. Positive (+) Terminal
6. Positive (+) cable
Figure 18
Charging the Battery
(Figure 18)
CAN EXPLODE and result in
_ ARNING: FROZEN BATTERIES
death or serious injury. DO NOT
charge a frozen battery. Let the
battery thaw before charging.
Follow First Aid directions for contact with
battery fluid.
External Contact: Flush with water.
Eyes: Flush with water for at least 15
minutes and get medical attention
immediately!
Internal Contact: Drink large quantities
of water. Follow with Milk of Magnesia,
beaten egg or vegetable oil. Get medical
attention immediately!
In case of internal contact, DO NOT
induce vomiting!
IMPORTANT: DO NOT fast charge. Charging
at a higher rate will damage or destroy
battery.
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS follow information
provided on battery and battery charger.
Contact battery and battery charger
manufacturers for detailed instructions.
GB - 20