Husqvarna MZ54 User Manual

Grass Catcher

MZ54 / 966721201

Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure

you understand the instructions before using the machine.

CONGRATULATIONS on the purchase of a new collection system. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center/ department. They have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools for service and repairs.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your collection system properly. Always observe the SAFETY RULES.

KNOW YOUR BLOWER SYSTEM

READ THIS OPERATION MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE ASSEMBLING OR OPERATING THE BLOWER SYSTEM. Compare the illustrations with the carton contents and become familiar with the parts before starting the assembly. Study the operating instructions and safety precautions thoroughly to insure proper functioning of the Grass Catcher and to prevent injuries. Save this manual for future reference.

CAUTION

BEFORE ASSEMBLING GRASS CATCHER TO MOWER:

• Set parking brake.

• Place motion control levers in NEUTRAL position.

• Turn ignition key OFF and remove key.

• Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped.

WARNING

• DO NOT operate mower with grass catcher partially installed.

• Disengage blades and stop engine before leaving mower seat to empty containers, unclogging chutes, etc.

• Close cover before starting.

• Disengage mower blades when crossing driveways or gravel surfaces and other areas where thrown objects could be a hazard.

• DO NOT attempt to vacuum cans or other potentially hazardous projectiles.

CAUTION

The operation of any mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. ALWAYS wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your mower and while mowing. Standard safety glasses are recommended or a wide vision safety mask for over spectacles.

CAUTION

Do not leave grass in bagger containers. Empty containers after each use and before storing. Failure to do so may result in spontaneous combustion which could develop into a ﬁre.

CAUTION

Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.

Swainsboro, GA. Printed in U.S.A.

CONTENTS

SAFETY ......................................................................4

ASSEMBLY ................................................................5

OPERATION ...............................................................9

TIPS FOR IMPROVED BAGGING .....................9

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ....................9

BLADE CARE .....................................................9

STORAGE .......................................................... 9

REPAIR PARTS ........................................................10

UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

• Remove all parts and packing materials from carton.

TOOLS REQUIRED

• Wrench or ratchet and socket (9/16")

• Wrench or ratchet and socket (½")

• Drill and bit (5/16")

Cover Assembly

CONTAINER CONTENTS

3 - Soft bag containers 4 - Bolts 3/8-16 x 3¾ 1 - Upper chute 8 - Nuts 3/8-16, Nyloc 1 - Lower chute 8 - Bolts 5/16-18 x 1 1 - Catcher mount 4 - Bolts 3/8-16 x 3½ 1 - Cover Assembly

Upper Chute

Bag Dump Indicator

Bagger Containers

NOTE: When right hand (RH) and left hand (LH) are mentioned in this manual, it means when seated on the mower in the operator’s position.

Lower Chute

SAFETY

SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, stones, toys, wire etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blades.

• Be sure the area is clear of all people and pets before mowing. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children even with blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artiﬁcial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the inﬂuence of alcohol or drugs.

• If the collection system has front weights included, DO NOT operate mower with the grass catcher unless the front weights are installed.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause buildup to occur.

• Allow machine to cool before storage.

SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low speed so that you will not have to stop while on the slope.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-off, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

SERVICE

• The operation of any mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating the mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. Wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses are recommended.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check there proper operation regularly.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.

ASSEMBLY

INSTALLING BAGGER MOUNT

1. Select the mount tube, lower mount hitch, spacer plate and support bracket from the kit. Using

/16 -18 x 1¾ round head shoulder bolts and nuts, attach the mount hitch to the mount tube as illustrated. Ensure that the elbowed arm of the tube is on the right side, with the mount hitch installed to the front.

2. Attach the support bracket to the tube assembly with two 5/16 -18 x 1¾ round head shoulder bolts and nuts.

Spacer Plate

FRONT

Support Bracket

3. With a ½-13 x 1 hex bolt and nut, secure the lower mount hitch to the frame.

4. Install the mount straps (bends are to the inside) on the outside of the mount tube using 5/16-18 x 2 hex bolts and nuts. The front side of the mount straps are secured to the fuel tank brackets with

/8-16 x 1 round head shoulder bolts and nuts.

5. To prevent contact of the left hand strap and the EFM (Electronic Fuel Management) box on the engine, place the foam strip on the inside of the strap, next to the box. (Illustration location is approximate.)

6. It may necessary to drill holes into the rear guard to accept the hardware for the support bracket and spacer plate. Using the bracket as a template, drill 5/16" holes.

7. Slip the spacer plate between the support bracket and the rear guard and attach both to the rear guard with 5/16-18 x ¾ hex bolts and nuts.

8. Tighten all hardware.

Mount Tube

Lower Mount Hitch

8063-109

Foam Strip

Mount Strap

Support Bracket and Spacer Plate

8063-110

Mount Strap

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