Ariens 2448 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 2448 is a 24-horsepower, 48-inch cutting deck zero-turn riding lawn mower designed for residential and light commercial use. It features a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control, durable steel construction, ergonomic operator controls, adjustable cutting height, mulching and bagging capabilities, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP engine, 48-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, dual hydrostatic pumps, lap bar steering controls, adjustable high-back seat, fuel tank, and discharge chute.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP (Horsepower) gasoline engine with electric start
Cutting Width	48-inch (122 cm) fabricated steel deck
Transmission	Dual hydrostatic pumps for zero-turn maneuverability
Steering	Lap bar control for speed and direction
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Seat	Padded, adjustable high-back seat with armrests
Fuel Capacity	3.5-gallon (13.2 L) fuel tank
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO (Power Take-Off) switch
Discharge Options	Side discharge, mulching kit (optional), bagging kit (optional)
Tires	Front: 13 x 6.5-6, Rear: 20 x 10-10

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

1. Wear appropriate clothing: sturdy shoes, eye protection, hearing protection.
2. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, toys, and other objects.
3. Never allow children or pets in area while mowing.
4. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow up and down slopes, not across.
5. Stop engine and wait for all moving parts to stop before dismounting or unclogging deck.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering lap bars: Attach to control panel with provided bolts.
2. Attach seat: Position seat on mounting plate and secure with bolts.
3. Install battery: Connect red (+) cable first, then black (-) cable.
4. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
5. Add engine oil and gasoline: Use SAE 10W-30 oil and unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Use two people when handling heavy components like the cutting deck.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting engine.

Control Panel: Ignition key, PTO switch, throttle, choke, hour meter, fuel gauge.

Lap Bars: Push forward to move forward, pull back to reverse; outward to turn.

Starting Procedure:

1. Set parking brake.
2. Move lap bars to neutral position.
3. Engage choke if engine is cold.
4. Turn ignition key to START; release when engine starts.
5. Disengage choke and allow engine to warm up.

Mowing Operation:

1. Drive to mowing area with PTO disengaged.
2. Set desired engine speed with throttle.
3. Engage PTO switch to start blades.
4. Use lap bars to control speed and direction.
5. Disengage PTO before stopping engine.

Specifications

• Model: Ariens 2448 Zero-Turn Rider
• Engine: 24 HP, 724cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, OHV
• Cutting Deck: 48-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade
• Transmission: Dual hydrostatic pumps, infinite forward/reverse speed
• Speed: Up to 7 mph (11 km/h) forward, 3 mph (5 km/h) reverse
• Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons (13.2 L)
• Weight: 650 lbs (295 kg) without attachments
• Turning Radius: Zero-turn capability
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, and for loose parts
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level; clean cutting deck
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil; check air filter; lubricate fittings
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug; inspect blades
Every 300 hours	Change hydraulic fluid and filter; replace fuel filter
Seasonally	Sharpen or replace blades; check battery

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height to suit grass conditions.

1. Park on level surface, engage parking brake, and turn off engine.
2. Locate deck lift lever on right side of machine.
3. Move lever to desired height setting (1.5 to 4.5 inches).
4. Check that deck is level from side to side; adjust leveling rods if necessary.

Tip: For best results, never cut more than 1/3 of grass height at one time.

Engine Care

Engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

Oil Change:

1. Run engine briefly to warm oil, then turn off.
2. Place drain pan under oil drain plug.
3. Remove drain plug and allow oil to drain completely.
4. Replace plug and refill with 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) of SAE 10W-30 oil.
5. Check dipstick level; do not overfill.

Air Filter Service: Replace paper filter every 100 hours; clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours.

Storage

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
2. Change engine oil and run engine briefly to circulate new oil.
3. Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
4. Disconnect battery negative cable; store battery in cool, dry place.
5. Store in clean, dry location; cover with breathable fabric.

CAUTION! Do not store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer; old gasoline can damage engine.

Warranty Information

Ariens 2448 is covered by a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, improper maintenance, accidents, commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized Ariens dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.ariens.com or contact 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	Dead battery, empty fuel tank, clogged fuel filter	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; replace fuel filter.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged mower deck	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh gasoline; clean deck.
Uneven cutting	Deck not level, dull blades, low tire pressure	Level deck; sharpen/replace blades; inflate tires.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low hydraulic fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; bleed air per manual.
Excessive vibration	Damaged or unbalanced blade, loose blade bolt	Inspect and replace blade if damaged; tighten bolt.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Ariens dealer.

Support: 1-800-678-5443; www.ariens.com