Ariens Gravely 915 ZT EZT Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens Gravely 915 ZT EZT is a zero-turn riding lawn mower featuring a 915cc engine, 52-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic zero-turn transmission, electric PTO engagement, adjustable cutting height, comfortable high-back seat, LED headlights, and a durable steel frame. Designed for residential and light commercial use, it offers superior maneuverability and cutting performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Cutting Deck Maintenance 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 915cc V-Twin engine, 52-inch fabricated steel deck, dual hydrostatic pumps, lap bar steering controls, electric PTO switch, adjustable seat, LED headlights, fuel gauge, cup holder.

FeatureDescription
Engine915cc V-Twin, OHV, electric start with recoil backup
Cutting Deck52-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system
TransmissionHydrostatic zero-turn, dual pumps & wheel motors
SteeringLap bar control levers for precise maneuverability
PTO EngagementElectric switch (dashboard)
Cutting HeightAdjustable 1.5" to 5" (13 positions)
SeatHigh-back, adjustable suspension
HeadlightsLED for low-light operation
Fuel Capacity4 gallons
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive, zero-turn radius

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering levers: Attach to control panel per instructions.
  2. Attach seat: Bolt seat to frame using provided hardware.
  3. Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  4. Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30, fill to dipstick mark.
  5. Add fuel: Use unleaded gasoline (87 octane min), no ethanol recommended.
  6. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

  1. Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear deck of debris.
  2. Starting engine: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move levers to neutral, turn key.
  3. Engaging blades: Press PTO switch after engine is running at full throttle.
  4. Driving: Slowly push lap bars forward to move forward, pull back to reverse.
  5. Stopping: Disengage PTO, return levers to neutral, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Always operate on level ground. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel, and deck cleanliness.

Every 8 hours: Check battery terminals, inspect blades for damage.

Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, replace oil filter, check air filter.

Every 100 hours: Replace spark plugs, check drive belt tension.

Every 250 hours: Change hydraulic fluid, inspect wheel motors.

Seasonally: Sharpen/replace blades, grease fittings, check battery charge.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

  1. Oil change: Run engine to warm oil, drain via plug, refill with SAE 10W-30.
  2. Air filter: Replace paper element; clean foam pre-filter if equipped.
  3. Spark plugs: Gap at 0.030", replace every 100 hours.
  4. Fuel filter: Replace annually or if clogged.
  5. Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Cutting Deck Maintenance

Maintain deck for clean, even cuts.

  1. Blade sharpening: Remove blades, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling.
  2. Belt inspection: Check for cracks/wear; adjust tension per manual.
  3. Deck cleaning: Remove grass buildup after each use to prevent rust.
  4. Spindle lubrication: Grease fittings every 25 hours.
  5. Height adjustment: Verify all wheels are at same setting.

WARNING! Wear gloves when handling blades. Ensure deck is securely supported.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

  1. Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
  2. Battery: Disconnect, clean terminals, store in cool, dry place on charger.
  3. Engine: Change oil, remove spark plug, add 1 oz oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly.
  4. Deck: Clean thoroughly, apply light oil to underside to prevent rust.
  5. Tires: Inflate to proper pressure, store off ground if possible.

CAUTION! Store in dry, covered area. Keep away from open flames.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Warranty & Support

Ariens Gravely 915 ZT EZT includes a 3-year limited residential warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Commercial use warranty may differ. Proof of purchase required. For support, visit www.ariens.com or www.gravely.com, or contact customer service at 1-800-678-5440. Keep this manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issue, safety switchCheck battery charge; ensure fuel valve on; sit firmly in seat; check spark plug.
Poor cutting qualityDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deckSharpen/replace blades; run at full throttle; clean deck underside.
Loss of powerClogged air filter, old fuel, dirty cooling finsReplace air filter; drain old fuel; clean engine fins.
Uneven cutting heightDeck not level, tire pressure unevenLevel deck per manual; adjust tire pressures.
Hydrostatic drive sluggishLow hydraulic fluid, air in systemCheck fluid level; purge air per manual.
Excessive vibrationDamaged blade, loose spindle, debrisInspect blades for damage; tighten spindle bolts; remove debris.

Reset: For electronic issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

Service: 1-800-678-5440; www.ariens.com; www.gravely.com

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