Ariens 915305 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens 915305 is a walk-behind self-propelled lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (1.5-4 inches), rear-wheel drive, and easy-start system. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper and safe use.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Operation Guide 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Adjustments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Storage Guidelines 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, rear bagger, mulching plug, side discharge chute, height adjustment lever, drive control bar, and recoil starter.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 125cc OHV engine
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	Single-lever adjustment (1.5-4 inches)
Drive System	Rear-wheel self-propelled
Cutting Options	3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Deck Material	Powder-coated steel
Starter	Recoil pull-start
Fuel Tank	0.5-gallon capacity
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and washers.
Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets.
Install mulching plug: Insert into rear discharge opening if mulching.
Add side discharge chute: Attach to side port if using side discharge.
Check wheel height: Adjust lever to desired setting.
Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

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

Operation Guide

Before starting, read safety instructions. Operate on dry, clear terrain.

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, pull recoil starter firmly.
Engaging drive: Squeeze drive control bar to self-propel; release to stop.
Adjusting speed: Use variable speed control on handle.
Cutting height: Move lever to desired position (1.5-4 inches).
Selecting mode: Install bag, mulching plug, or side chute as needed.
Stopping: Release drive bar, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Ariens 915305
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 125cc, OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches
Deck: 21-inch steel, powder-coated
Drive: Rear-wheel self-propelled
Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 20 oz SAE 30
Warranty: 2-year limited
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Adjustments

Handle Controls: Drive control bar, speed control, height adjustment lever. Engine Controls: Throttle, choke, recoil starter.

Adjustments: Height: Move lever to one of 7 positions. Drive Speed: Turn knob on handle. Bag Installation: Hook onto rear brackets. Mulching: Insert plug into rear opening. Side Discharge: Attach chute to side port.

Blade Engagement: Engine throttle controls blade speed. Safety: Blade brake clutch stops blade when handle is released.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug.
Every season: Sharpen or replace blade, lubricate wheel axles, check drive belt.
Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean deck, store in dry place.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

Clean: Remove grass clippings from deck, wheels, and engine.
Fuel: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer to full tank.
Oil: Change oil if due.
Blade: Sharpen or replace if needed.
Store: Keep in dry, covered area, preferably on level surface.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank in enclosed area due to fire risk.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when handle is released. Safety Key: Prevents unauthorized operation. Discharge Chute: Directs debris away from operator. Guard: Shields moving parts.

Care & Cleaning

After each use, clean deck with brush or hose. Wipe engine with dry cloth. Never use water on engine or electrical components.

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before cleaning. Do not use high-pressure water on bearings or controls.

Warranty Information

Ariens 915305 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For claims, contact Ariens customer service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged filter	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose, control cable	Check belt tension; adjust drive control cable.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when dry; clean underside of deck.

Reset: For engine issues, check spark plug and fuel lines.

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