Ariens Gravely 986102 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens Gravely 986102 is a professional-grade walk-behind lawn mower designed for demanding residential and commercial use. It features a powerful engine, durable steel deck, multiple cutting height adjustments, ergonomic handle with controls, rear bagger attachment capability, and easy-start technology. 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. Attachments & Accessories 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, Height adjustment lever, Drive control handle, Rear discharge/bagging system, Fuel tank with gauge.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck for efficient mowing
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 550EX Series, 140cc
Drive System	Variable speed self-propelled rear-wheel drive
Cutting Height	6-position adjustment (1.5" to 4")
Starting System	Recoil start with easy-pull technology
Handle	Ergonomic folding handle with padded grips
Fuel Capacity	0.95 gallon (3.6L) translucent tank
Bagging Capacity	2.5 bushel rear bagger (optional)
Mulching Capability	Mulch plug included for nutrient recycling
Warranty	2-year limited residential warranty

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align lower handle sections with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and washers.
Install height adjustment lever: Insert lever into bracket on right side, secure with retaining clip.
Connect drive cable: Route cable from handle to transmission, adjust for proper tension.
Install bagger (if included): Attach bagger frame to rear deck hooks, secure with pins.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (20 oz. capacity).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then perform pre-operation checks.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Inspect blade: Verify blade is properly installed and sharp.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (middle setting recommended for first use).
Test controls: Squeeze drive control to engage wheels, release to stop. Practice in open area.
Start engine: Move throttle to FAST position, pull recoil starter firmly.

CAUTION! Never operate mower without proper oil level. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Ariens Gravely 986102
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Deck Material: 14-gauge steel
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 550EX, 140cc, 4-cycle
Power: 4.10 ft-lbs torque
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent (API service classification SJ or higher)
Cutting Heights: 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 3.5", 4"
Drive: Variable speed self-propelled (0-3 mph)
Weight: 78 lbs (without bagger)

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control lever (right), Height adjustment lever (left), Throttle control, Recoil starter grip.

Operation Steps:

Check area: Remove stones, toys, and debris from lawn.
Set height: Adjust cutting height before starting engine.
Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, pull starter firmly.
Engage drive: Squeeze drive control lever to handle.
Mow pattern: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Shut down: Release drive control, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Alternate mowing direction weekly.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with Ariens Gravely accessory system.

Rear Baggers: 2.5 bushel capacity (model 290-100)
Mulch Kits: Converts to mulching mode (model 290-200)
Stripe Kits: Roller attachment for lawn striping (model 290-300)
Wheel Kits: High-wheel conversion for rough terrain (model 290-400)

Note: Use only Ariens-approved attachments. Improper attachments may void warranty.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, sharpen/replace blade, check drive belt
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, clean fuel system, check wheel bearings
Season end	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly, store properly

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting problems.

Clean thoroughly: Remove all grass clippings from deck and underside.
Drain fuel: Run engine until tank is empty OR add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil: Replace oil at season end to remove contaminants.
Remove battery: If electric start model, remove and store separately.
Store indoors: Keep in dry, covered location away from moisture.
Protect blade: Apply light oil to blade to prevent rust.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank near open flames or heat sources.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

Wear protective equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area: Remove stones, sticks, wire, and other objects.
Never mow wet grass: Reduced traction and increased clogging risk.
Keep bystanders away: Especially children and pets.
Use on slopes carefully: Mow across slopes, not up and down.
Never remove safety devices: Grass discharge chute, blade guard, etc.
Stop engine: Before unclogging, adjusting, or leaving mower unattended.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause serious injury. Always assume blade is rotating.

Warranty & Support

Ariens Gravely 986102 includes 2-year limited warranty for residential use, 90-day commercial warranty. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship. Not covered: Normal wear, improper maintenance, accident damage, commercial misuse. For support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-920-756-2141 or visit www.ariens.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on deck plate).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, stale gas	Check fuel level, replace spark plug, drain old gas.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, water in fuel	Clean/replace air filter, drain fuel tank.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen/replace blade, inflate tires to 15 PSI.
Mower vibrates excessively	Bent blade, loose parts	Replace blade, tighten all bolts and fasteners.
Won't self-propel	Drive belt worn, cable adjustment	Replace drive belt, adjust drive cable tension.
Grass clumps under deck	Wet grass, cutting too low	Mow when dry, raise cutting height.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Ariens service center.

Support: 1-920-756-2141; www.ariens.com