Ariens 915285 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 915285 is a robust walk-behind lawn mower designed for residential use, featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side-discharge), single-lever height adjustment, easy-start technology, and durable construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 discharge system, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, mulch kit included, durable wheels.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 550E Series, 140cc
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Deck	Steel construction
Discharge Options	Mulch, Bag, Side-discharge (3-in-1)
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.5-4 inches)
Starting System	Recoil start with easy-start technology
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity	2.0 bushels
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs
Warranty	2-year limited

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Attach handle: Align handle with lower brackets, insert bolts, tighten securely.
Install bagger/mulch kit: Attach rear bagger bracket; connect bag or mulch plug as desired.
Attach discharge chute: For side-discharge, snap chute into deck opening.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with retainer clips.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (18 oz); add fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Read manual thoroughly before use.
Clear mowing area of debris, stones, and toys.
Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
Do not mow wet grass or in poor visibility.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
Never allow children to operate mower.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Model: Ariens 915285
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 550E, 140cc, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
Deck Material: Steel
Discharge: 3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side-discharge)
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity: 2.0 bushels
Fuel Tank: 0.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 18 oz SAE 30
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control bar, height adjustment lever, engine control lever.

Starting: 1. Check oil and fuel levels. 2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release drive control bar; move throttle to STOP; wait for blade to stop.

Operation: Engage drive control bar to self-propel; release to stop movement. Adjust speed with throttle.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels.

Stop mower on level surface.
Pull lever outward and move to desired height setting (1-6).
Release lever to lock position.
Test on small area before full mowing.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting; gradually lower.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level; inspect blade for damage; clear deck of debris.
Every 25 hours	Change oil (SAE 30); check air filter; inspect spark plug.
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade; clean underside of deck; check wheel bolts.
As needed	Replace air filter; change spark plug; lubricate wheel axles.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before blade maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Run engine to burn remaining fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil at end of season.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon oil, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder.
Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Do not store with gasoline in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Ariens 915285 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Ariens dealer with proof of purchase. Register product online at www.ariens.com for faster service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gasoline, clogged filter	Add fresh fuel; check fuel line; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST; clear deck.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, bent blade	Check tire pressure; level deck; inspect/replace blade.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; clean deck; check for bent blade.
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, worn belt	Adjust drive cable tension; inspect drive belt for wear.

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