Ariens 915243 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 915243 is a walk-behind lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, durable wheels, and ergonomic handle with controls. Designed for residential use with grass collection bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 function, adjustable handle, grass bag, height adjustment lever, recoil starter.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wrench.
2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with washers and retaining clips.
3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure fit.
4. Connect control cables: Route throttle and drive cables per diagram; adjust tension.
5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil; add unleaded gasoline to tank.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tight before use.

First-Time Setup

Before first mow, complete pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil level: Use dipstick; add if low.
2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (no ethanol if possible).
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3 inches).
4. Test controls: Ensure throttle, drive, and blade engage/disengage smoothly.
5. Start engine: Pull recoil starter; let engine warm up 1-2 minutes.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot or running.

Specifications

• Model: Ariens 915243
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1 to 4 inches (6 positions)
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
• Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (20 oz capacity)
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle controls: Throttle lever, drive control bar, blade engage lever.

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, pull recoil starter firmly. Stopping: Release blade engage lever, set throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

Drive Control: Squeeze bar to self-propel mower; release to stop movement. Throttle: Adjust engine speed (SLOW for idle, FAST for cutting). Height Adjustment: Lever on each wheel; match positions for even cut. Bagging/Mulching: Install bag for collection; remove bag and insert plug for mulching.

Cutting & Height Adjustment

Adjust height based on grass type and season.

1. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before adjusting.
2. Move lever on each wheel to same numbered position (1=lowest, 6=highest).
3. For best results, never cut more than 1/3 of grass height at once.
4. Alternate mowing patterns to avoid ruts.

Tip: Keep blade sharp for clean cuts; dull blades tear grass.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and performance.

1. Before each use: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and blade condition.
2. Every 25 hours: Change oil (or seasonally).
3. Every 50 hours: Replace air filter; check spark plug.
4. Seasonally: Sharpen or replace blade; clean underside of deck.
5. Annually: Replace fuel filter; inspect cables and wheels.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Run engine to burn remaining fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
2. Change oil and replace air filter.
3. Clean deck thoroughly; apply light oil to blade to prevent rust.
4. Store in dry, covered area; cover mower to keep dust-free.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operating.

• Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
• Clear mowing area of stones, sticks, and debris.
• Never mow wet grass or on steep slopes.
• Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
• Disconnect spark plug for any adjustments or maintenance.
• Keep children and pets away during operation.

Warranty & Support

Ariens 915243 includes 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship; does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on deck label).

Troubleshooting

Reset: For engine issues, check spark plug gap (0.030 inches).

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