Ariens 25HP-152Z Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 25HP-152Z is a high-performance zero-turn riding lawn mower featuring a 25 HP engine, 52-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic drive system, electric blade engagement, adjustable cutting height, ergonomic high-back seat, LED headlights, cup holder, and a durable steel frame. Designed for residential and light commercial use, it offers superior maneuverability and cutting efficiency. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 25 HP engine, 52-inch fabricated steel deck, dual hydrostatic transmissions, lap bar steering controls, electric PTO clutch, and ergonomic operator station.

Feature	Description
Engine	25 HP Briggs & Stratton or Kohler engine with electric start
Cutting Width	52 inches with anti-scalp rollers
Drive System	Hydrostatic zero-turn with lap bar control
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.25-inch increments
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension seat
Headlights	LED headlights for low-light operation
Deck Engagement	Electric PTO switch
Speed	Forward up to 7 mph, reverse up to 3 mph
Frame	Welded steel construction with powder-coated finish

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering lap bars: Attach to control levers with provided pins.
Attach seat: Mount seat to frame using bolts; adjust tension for operator weight.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals; secure with hold-down.
Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 10W-30 oil; fill with unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Do not attempt assembly alone. Use proper lifting techniques. Keep hands clear of pinch points.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area of debris.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move lap bars outward, turn key to START.
Driving: Push lap bars forward to move forward; pull back for reverse. Steer by varying speed of each wheel.
Engage blades: Ensure engine at full throttle; press PTO switch to engage mower deck.
Shutdown: Disengage PTO, return lap bars to neutral, set parking brake, turn key OFF.

CAUTION! Always keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Engine: 25 HP, 4-cycle, air-cooled.
Cutting Deck: 52-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system.
Transmission: Dual hydrostatic pumps with wheel motors.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4.5 inches.
Turning Radius: Zero-turn capability.
Weight: Approx. 650 lbs.
Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on mower, 2-year on engine.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level, and inspect for debris.

Every 8 hours: Clean deck underside, check blade condition.

Every 50 hours: Change engine oil and filter, check air filter, grease fittings.

Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension, inspect hydraulic fluid.

Seasonal: Sharpen or replace blades, check battery charge, lubricate moving parts.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height to match grass conditions.

Park on level surface, disengage PTO, set parking brake.
Locate deck lift lever on right side of operator station.
Move lever to desired height setting (marked 1.5 to 4.5).
Check level: Measure blade tip height at all four corners; adjust deck links if uneven.

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

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck, engine, and frame.
Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes, or drain fuel tank and carburetor.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Protect: Store in dry, covered area; cover mower to prevent dust accumulation.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine.

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety procedures to prevent injury.

Wear appropriate clothing: Safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area: Remove stones, toys, and other debris.
Never carry passengers: Seat designed for operator only.
Slope operation: Mow up and down slopes, not across. Avoid steep inclines.
Children and pets: Keep at a safe distance during operation.

DANGER! Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Disengage PTO and turn off engine before clearing blockages.

Warranty Information

Ariens provides a 3-year limited warranty for residential use, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Engine warranty is provided by the engine manufacturer (typically 2 years). Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty claims, contact an authorized Ariens dealer or call 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Check battery charge; ensure fuel present; verify seat switch engaged.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades, deck not level	Sharpen or replace blades; level deck as per manual.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old spark plug	Clean or replace air filter; install new spark plug.
Hydrostatic drive sluggish	Low hydraulic fluid, belt loose	Check fluid level; inspect and adjust drive belt tension.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, debris in deck	Stop engine, inspect blades for damage, clean deck interior.

Service: For technical support, contact Ariens at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com.