Ariens 25HP-160Z Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 25HP-160Z is a high-performance zero-turn riding lawn mower featuring a 25 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 60-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic drive system, dual-lever steering controls, electric PTO engagement, adjustable cutting height (1.5-4.5 inches), heavy-duty steel frame, comfortable high-back seat, 4-gallon fuel capacity, and integrated mulching/bagging/discharge capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 25 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 60-inch fabricated steel deck, dual hydrostatic pumps, lap bar steering controls, electric PTO switch, adjustable seat, cup holder, hour meter.

Feature	Description
Engine	25 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin OHV
Cutting Width	60 inches
Drive System	Hydrostatic, zero-turn radius
Steering	Dual lap bar controls
PTO Engagement	Electric switch with safety interlock
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4.5 inches (12 positions)
Fuel Capacity	4 gallons
Deck Material	10-gauge fabricated steel
Speed Range	0-7 mph forward, 0-3 mph reverse
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers; operator only.
Do not mow on slopes exceeding 15 degrees.
Engage parking brake before dismounting.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always disengage PTO and shut off engine before performing maintenance.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires two people.

Install steering levers: Attach to control panel with provided bolts.
Attach seat: Mount using four bolts and adjust tension.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30 (approx. 2 quarts).
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Maintain 12-14 PSI in all tires.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque. Keep assembly area clean and organized.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Control Panel: Ignition key, PTO switch, choke, throttle, hour meter, cup holder.

Steering: Move both lap bars forward to go straight; differential steering for turns.

Starting Procedure:

Set parking brake.
Move steering levers to neutral outward position.
Adjust throttle to halfway.
Turn ignition key to START; release when engine starts.
Allow engine to warm up for 1-2 minutes.
Engage PTO to start blades.

Shutdown Procedure:

Disengage PTO.
Return steering levers to neutral.
Engage parking brake.
Turn ignition key to OFF.
Remove key.

Specifications

Engine: 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin OHV
Cutting Deck: 60-inch, 10-gauge steel
Blades: 3 high-lift blades (21 inches each)
Transmission: Dual hydrostatic pumps with wheel motors
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 10W-30)
Weight: 850 lbs (without attachments)
Tires: Front 13x6.5-6, Rear 20x10-10
Max Speed: 7 mph forward, 3 mph reverse
Warranty: 3-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, deck for debris
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, spark plugs
Every 200 hours	Change hydraulic fluid, check belt tension
Seasonally	Sharpen/replace blades, grease fittings

Tip: Record maintenance in log using hour meter readings.

Cutting System

The 60-inch deck offers multiple cutting options.

Height Adjustment: Use deck lift lever; set between 1.5-4.5 inches.
Blade Engagement: Engage PTO switch only at full throttle.
Cutting Patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Mulching: Install mulching kit; keep deck clean for optimal performance.
Bagging: Attach grass bagger; empty when ¾ full.
Side Discharge: Use discharge chute for heavy cutting conditions.

WARNING! Always shut off engine and remove key before adjusting deck or blades.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change engine oil and filter.
Remove spark plugs and add 1 teaspoon of oil to cylinders.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in dry, covered location; elevate if possible.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor; use stabilizer or drain completely.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure seat switch engaged.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen/replace blades; adjust tire pressure to 12-14 PSI.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Hydrostatic drive sluggish	Low hydraulic fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; bleed system per manual.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose spindle	Inspect and replace blade; tighten spindle bolts.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

Service: 1-800-678-9443; www.ariens.com

Warranty Information

Ariens 3-Year Limited Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship for residential use. Commercial use warranty differs. Proof of purchase required. Does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or accident damage. For warranty claims, contact authorized Ariens dealer with serial number (located on frame near engine).