Ariens Mowers 46 Inch 20 HP Manual

The Ariens 46-inch 20 HP riding mower is a robust lawn tractor designed for residential and light commercial use. It features a 20 HP Briggs & Stratton or Kohler engine, a 46-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Engine Care 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20 HP Engine, 46-inch Fabricated Deck, Hydrostatic Transmission, Electric PTO, High-Back Seat, Headlights, Cup Holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	20 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek or Kohler Courage V-Twin engine
Cutting Deck	46-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system with anti-scalp rollers
Transmission	Hydrostatic drive with infinite speed control (0-5.5 mph)
PTO Engagement	Electric clutch for easy blade engagement
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Seat	High-back, padded seat with adjustable tension
Fuel Capacity	3.5-gallon tank
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Warranty	Limited residential warranty (see manual for details)

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30 (check dipstick for level).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with pins, secure with belt.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Ignition switch: Turn key to START position.
Parking brake: Engage before starting; disengage to drive.
Blade engagement: Pull PTO switch upward to engage blades.
Speed control: Use foot pedal (forward/reverse).
Cutting height: Adjust lever to desired height.
Shutdown: Disengage PTO, engage 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 46-inch Riding Mower.
Engine: 20 HP, V-Twin, OHV.
Cutting Width: 46 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speed control.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 10W-30).
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4.5 inches.
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: Approximately 550 lbs.
Warranty: 3-year limited (residential).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, engine oil, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check deck for debris; inspect blades
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil and oil filter
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug
Every season	Sharpen/replace blades; grease fittings
Storage	Winterize engine; stabilize fuel

Tip: Always refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface; set cutting height to middle position.
Measure distance from blade tips to ground at all four corners.
Adjust deck hangers to level (front slightly lower than rear for best discharge).
Recheck measurements after adjustment.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before working under deck.

Engine Care

Engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

Oil change: Run engine to warm oil; drain via plug; refill with 2 quarts SAE 10W-30.
Air filter: Replace paper element; clean foam pre-filter if equipped.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel filter: Replace if clogged or annually.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

CAUTION! Engine is hot after operation; allow to cool before servicing.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Add fuel stabilizer to tank; run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil and filter.
Remove battery; store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Store in dry, covered location; cover mower.

Tip: Lubricate all moving parts before storage.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
Do not carry passengers.
Do not mow on wet grass or steep slopes.
Disengage blades before crossing driveways or gravel.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death.

Warranty & Support

Ariens provides limited warranty coverage. Register product online at www.ariens.com. For technical support, contact Ariens Customer Service at 1-800-678-5443 or visit www.ariens.com. Keep proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure parking brake engaged, PTO disengaged, seat occupied.
Poor cut quality	Dull blades, uneven deck	Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; check belt tension.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose parts	Stop engine; inspect blades for damage; tighten all bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; check spark plug.
Hydrostatic drive sluggish	Low fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; purge air per manual.
Battery not charging	Faulty alternator, loose connections	Check alternator output; clean and tighten battery terminals.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset electrical system if needed.

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