The Ariens 46 inch Riding Mower (Model 936056) is a powerful and efficient lawn tractor designed for residential use. It features a 46-inch stamped steel cutting deck, a reliable engine (typically 20-24 HP), hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control, electric PTO engagement, adjustable cutting height, comfortable high-back seat, and a large capacity fuel tank. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.
Key components: 46-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic Transmission, Electric PTO Clutch, Engine, Operator Controls, Fuel Tank, Seat, and Wheels.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cutting Deck | 46-inch wide, stamped steel construction for durability |
| Engine | Powerful gasoline engine (specific HP varies by model year) |
| Transmission | Hydrostatic drive for infinite forward/reverse speeds |
| PTO Engagement | Electric switch for easy blade engagement |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | Lever or dial for multiple height positions (1.5" - 4.5") |
| Seat | High-back, padded seat for operator comfort |
| Fuel Capacity | Large tank for extended mowing sessions |
| Headlights | Integrated for low-light operation |
| Deck Wash Port | Connection for cleaning underside of deck |
| Hour Meter | Tracks engine hours for maintenance scheduling |
Read and understand all safety instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.
DANGER! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck and rotating blades. Never attempt to clear a clog or perform maintenance with the engine running.
Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly typically requires attaching the steering wheel, seat, and connecting the battery.
CAUTION! Use proper lifting techniques or assistance when handling heavy components like the battery or mower deck.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.
Operator Station: Ignition Key, Throttle/Choke Control, Brake Pedal, Parking Brake Lever, Hydrostatic Drive Pedal (forward/reverse), PTO Engagement Switch, Cutting Height Lever, Hour Meter.
Starting Procedure: 1. Sit in seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to fast position. 4. Turn key to START. Release when engine starts. 5. Allow engine to warm up.
Mowing: 1. Disengage parking brake. 2. Use drive pedal to move forward/backward. 3. Engage PTO switch to start blades. 4. Mow in overlapping passes for even cut.
Shutdown: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Move throttle to slow. 4. Turn key to OFF. Remove key.
Regular maintenance is critical for safety and performance. Refer to your engine manual for specific engine service intervals.
| Interval (Hours/Season) | Task |
|---|---|
| Before each use | Check tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level, and for loose hardware. |
| Every 8 hours | Check mower deck belts for wear and tension. |
| Every 25 hours | Grease all zerks fittings (deck spindles, linkages). Clean deck underside. |
| Every 50 hours | Change engine oil and oil filter (or per engine manual). Check air filter. |
| Every 100 hours | Replace spark plug. Check battery terminals for corrosion. |
| Seasonally | Sharpen or replace blades. Check and adjust drive belt tension. |
| Annually | Replace fuel filter. Check transmission fluid level (if serviceable). |
Refer to the separate engine owner's manual for detailed instructions. General guidelines:
WARNING! Always allow the engine to cool completely before performing any maintenance.
Proper deck care ensures a clean cut and extends blade life.
Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.
Tip: Block up the mower to take weight off the tires during long-term storage.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Dead battery, blown fuse, safety switch engaged, empty fuel tank, bad spark plug. | Check/charge battery; check fuses; ensure operator is in seat, brake set, PTO off; add fuel; check/replace spark plug. |
| Engine runs poorly or stalls | Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter, dirty/choked carburetor. | Replace air filter; drain old fuel and replace; replace fuel filter; clean carburetor. |
| Mower vibrates excessively | Unbalanced or damaged blade, loose blade bolt, damaged deck spindle. | Stop engine immediately. Inspect blade for damage/balance and tighten bolt. Inspect spindle bearings. |
| Poor cutting quality | Dull blades, deck not level, mowing too fast, wet grass. | Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; slow mowing speed; wait for grass to dry. |
| Loss of power to blades | PTO switch faulty, PTO clutch faulty, broken deck belt. | Check PTO switch wiring; test PTO clutch resistance; inspect and replace deck belt if broken. |
| Hydrostatic transmission sluggish/no drive | Low transmission fluid, drive belt loose/broken, linkage out of adjustment. | Check fluid level (if serviceable); inspect drive belt; check control linkage. |
Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect and reconnect battery after 30 seconds.
The Ariens 46 inch Riding Mower is backed by a limited warranty. Refer to your warranty certificate for specific terms and duration. For technical support, parts, or service:
Note: Warranty may be voided by misuse, lack of maintenance, or use of non-approved parts/attachments.