Ariens 911057 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 911057 is a walk-behind self-propelled lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch/bag/side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, electric start capability, and durable construction for residential lawn care. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting System Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, self-propelled drive system, 3-in-1 cutting system, single-lever height adjustment, electric start with backup recoil, rear bagger, and mulching plug.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Cutting Width21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting System3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
Drive SystemSelf-propelled rear-wheel drive
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever, 6 positions (1.5-4 inches)
Starting SystemElectric start with recoil backup
Fuel Tank1.1-gallon capacity
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity2.5 bushels
WeightApproximately 75 lbs

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts.
  2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with retaining clips.
  3. Attach bagger: Connect rear bagger assembly to deck brackets.
  4. Install mulching plug: Insert plug into discharge chute when mulching.
  5. Connect battery: For electric start models, connect battery to starter.
  6. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (middle setting recommended).
  4. Select cutting mode: Install bag, mulching plug, or open discharge chute.
  5. Test start: Use electric start or recoil to start engine.
  6. Test drive: Engage drive lever to ensure self-propelled system works.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Operate outdoors only.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle. Handle: Drive control lever, height adjustment lever, electric start button, recoil starter, bagger release.

Operation: Start engine, engage drive lever to move forward, release to stop. Adjust speed with drive lever pressure. Use height lever to change cutting height. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop before crossing gravel/driveways.

Cutting Modes: Bagging (attach bag), Mulching (install plug), Side Discharge (remove plug and bag).

Cutting System Setup

Configure for desired cutting method.

  1. Bagging: Attach bag to rear brackets. Ensure chute deflector is closed.
  2. Mulching: Install mulching plug in discharge chute. Remove bag.
  3. Side Discharge: Remove mulching plug and bag. Ensure area is clear.
  4. Height Adjustment: Move single lever to desired setting (1-6).

Tip: For best mulching, cut dry grass at proper height. Overlap passes slightly.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
  2. Every 25 hours: Change oil (first change after 5 hours), check air filter.
  3. Every 50 hours: Replace air filter, inspect spark plug.
  4. Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension.
  5. Seasonal: Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck, check tire pressure.
  6. Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, remove battery for electric start.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

  1. Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck, wheels, and engine.
  2. Fuel management: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer to full tank.
  3. Oil change: Replace oil if due before storage.
  4. Battery care: Remove and store battery in cool, dry place (electric start).
  5. Blade care: Sharpen blade and coat with light oil to prevent rust.
  6. Storage location: Store in dry, covered area away from moisture.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer in ventilated area.

Safety Information

Always follow safety precautions to prevent injury.

Warranty Information

Ariens 911057 includes 3-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, accident damage, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Ariens dealer or Ariens Customer Service at 1-920-756-4688 or visit www.ariens.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, stale fuelCheck fuel level, replace spark plug, use fresh gasoline.
Poor cutting performanceDull blade, clogged deck, wrong heightSharpen blade, clean deck, adjust cutting height.
Self-propelled not workingDrive belt loose, control cable issueCheck belt tension, adjust control cable.
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, bent blade, unbalanced bladeTighten blade bolt, replace bent blade, balance blade.
Engine runs roughDirty air filter, old fuel, carburetor issueClean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel, clean carburetor.
Bag not fillingClogged chute, wet grass, engine speed lowClear chute, mow dry grass, operate at full throttle.

Service: For technical support, contact Ariens at 1-920-756-4688 or visit www.ariens.com.

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