Ariens HYDROSTATIC S-8 Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens HYDROSTATIC S-8 is a premium 8-speed hydrostatic riding lawn mower designed for residential and light commercial use. It features a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control, a durable cutting deck, ergonomic controls, and a comfortable high-back seat. 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. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Hydrostatic Transmission 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Hydrostatic transmission, 8-speed control lever, Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, Electric start, High-back seat, Cup holder, Headlights.

Feature	Description
Hydrostatic Transmission	8-speed, no-clutch operation for smooth forward/reverse
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 724cc, OHV
Electric Start	Key ignition with battery
Speed Control Lever	Single lever controls direction and speed
Cutting Height Adjustment	Lever adjusts deck height (1.5-4.5 inches)
Headlights	LED for low-light operation
Fuel Tank	3-gallon capacity
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Parking Brake	Automatic when engine off

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Mount onto frame with provided bolts.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

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

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start check: Oil level, fuel, tire pressure, clear area.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, turn key to START.
Speed control: Push lever forward for forward motion, pull back for reverse.
Cutting engagement: Pull PTO (Power Take-Off) lever to engage blades.
Stopping: Release PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

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

Specifications

Model: Ariens HYDROSTATIC S-8.
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 724cc, OHV.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, 8-speed.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches (adjustable).
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 30).
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: 520 lbs.
Warranty: 3-year limited.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

After first 5 hours: Check all bolts, tire pressure, deck level.

Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, check air filter, sharpen blades.

Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug, check transmission fluid.

Seasonal: Lubricate moving parts, check battery, clean deck.

Always refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface, set parking brake.
Measure cutting height at all four corners of deck.
Adjust lift links to level deck (front slightly lower than rear for best discharge).
Test mow and readjust if necessary.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before working under deck.

Hydrostatic Transmission

The hydrostatic transmission provides infinite speed control.

Operation: Single lever controls speed and direction.
Maintenance: Check fluid level annually; change every 500 hours.
Troubleshooting: If transmission slips or won't move, check fluid level and linkage.

WARNING! Do not tow mower; disengage transmission before moving manually.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking Brake: Automatically engages when engine is off. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds of disengagement.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for long-term storage.

Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
Change engine oil and filter.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in covered, dry area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Ariens HYDROSTATIC S-8 comes with 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: Normal wear, improper maintenance, commercial use. For warranty claims, contact authorized Ariens dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.ariens.com or contact 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, spark plug	Check battery charge; ensure fuel valve on; inspect spark plug.
Uneven cutting	Deck not level, dull blades	Level cutting deck; sharpen or replace blades.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; drain old fuel and refill.
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check transmission fluid level; inspect drive belt.
Vibration	Loose blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt; remove debris from deck.

Reset: Turn key to OFF and wait 30 seconds if safety system engages.

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