Ariens Pro-24 HWSP Lawn Mower Manual

The Ariens Pro-24 HWSP is a 24-inch walk-behind hydrostatic lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, heavy-duty steel deck, hydrostatic drive system for smooth speed control, electric start, mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable ergonomic handle. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting & Discharge Options 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24-inch reinforced steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic drive system, Electric start with key, Briggs & Stratton engine, Adjustable handle with controls, Mulching plug, Grass bagger attachment.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	24 inches for efficient mowing
Drive System	Hydrostatic transmission with infinite speed control
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 190cc, OHV
Starting	Electric key start (battery included) and recoil backup
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches via single lever
Discharge Options	Mulch, Bag, or Side Discharge
Deck Material	Heavy-gauge steel with anti-scalp rollers
Handle	Ergonomic, foldable for storage
Wheels	10-inch rear, 8-inch front with ball bearings
Fuel Tank	1.5-gallon capacity

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach Handle: Bolt upper and lower handle sections using provided hardware.
Install Controls: Connect drive control cable and bail lever to handle.
Mount Grass Bag: Attach bagger frame to deck rear; install fabric bag.
Add Engine Oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
Add Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Charge Battery: Connect charger to electric start battery for initial use.

WARNING! Keep hands clear of cutting blade during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-Start Check: Ensure area is clear, oil and fuel levels are correct.
Electric Start: Insert key, turn to ON, pull choke (if cold), turn to START.
Recoil Start: If battery is dead, use recoil starter handle.
Drive Control: Squeeze bail lever to handlebar to engage drive; release to stop. Use speed control lever to adjust forward/reverse speed.
Cutting Height: Adjust lever to desired setting (1.5" to 4").
Shut Down: Release bail, turn key to OFF, remove key.

CAUTION! Always release bail lever to stop blade and drive before leaving operator position.

Specifications

Model: Ariens Pro-24 HWSP
Cutting Width: 24 inches
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc, OHV
Transmission: Hydrostatic drive, infinite speeds
Start System: Electric key start with 12V battery, backup recoil
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches (6 positions)
Deck Construction: 12-gauge steel
Wheel Size: 10" rear, 8" front
Fuel Capacity: 1.5 gallons
Weight: Approx. 185 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 8 hours	Check tire pressure, inspect bolts for tightness
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first change at 5 hours), clean/replace air filter
Every 50 hours	Sharpen or replace blade, check drive belt tension
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check battery charge
Season End	Full winterization (see Storage section)

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Cutting & Discharge Options

Configure mower for your lawn's needs.

Mulching: Install mulching plug in rear discharge chute. Cuts clippings finely and returns them to lawn.
Bagging: Attach grass bagger assembly. Collects clippings for disposal.
Side Discharge: Remove mulching plug and bagger. Clippings are discharged to the side (right).

For Best Results: Mow when grass is dry. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height in a single mowing.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Run engine to use up fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer to full tank and run for 5 minutes.
Change engine oil and replace filter (if equipped).
Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly. Touch up any scratches with paint.
Remove battery, charge fully, and store in a cool, dry place.
Store mower in a clean, dry location, preferably covered.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Allow engine to cool completely before storage.

Safety Guidelines

Always prioritize safety when operating power equipment.

Read manual completely before use.
Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects.
Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and eye protection.
Do not mow on steep slopes (over 15 degrees).
Never allow children or pets in area while mowing.
Never operate without discharge chute, mulch plug, or bagger properly installed.
Always turn off engine and remove key before unclogging deck or performing maintenance.

DANGER! Keep hands and feet away from rotating blade. The blade can cause severe injury.

Warranty Information

Ariens Company provides a limited warranty for residential use. The mower frame and deck are covered for a lifetime. The engine is covered by the manufacturer's warranty (Briggs & Stratton typically 2 years). The hydrostatic transmission is covered for 3 years. Proof of purchase is required. This warranty does not cover damage from neglect, misuse, commercial use, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Ariens dealer or call 1-800-678-5443.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, dead battery, clogged fuel line, old gasoline	Add fresh fuel, charge/replace battery, check fuel line, drain old gas.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old spark plug, contaminated fuel	Clean/replace air filter, replace spark plug, use fresh gasoline.
Mower won't drive	Bail lever not engaged, drive cable loose/disconnected	Ensure bail is fully squeezed; check and adjust drive cable tension.
Uneven cut	Dull/bent blade, uneven tire pressure, deck not level	Sharpen/balance or replace blade, inflate tires evenly, level deck.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, damaged spindle, debris stuck in blade	Tighten blade bolt, inspect spindle bearings, clean deck interior.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too low	Mow when dry, clean deck, operate at full throttle.

Service: For technical support or to locate a dealer, visit www.ariens.com or call 1-800-678-5443.