Husqvarna Mowers Z246 Owners Manual

The Husqvarna Z246 is a 24 HP Zero Turn Riding Mower featuring a Kohler engine, 46-inch fabricated cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, ergonomic high-back seat, integrated headlights, and a robust frame designed for residential and light commercial use. This manual covers essential safety guidelines, operational procedures, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and warranty information to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Kohler engine, 46-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, dual hydrostatic pumps for zero-turn maneuverability, ergonomic operator station, and integrated headlights for low-light operation.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating the mower. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and other objects before starting.
2. Never allow children or untrained persons to operate the mower.
3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow up and down slopes, not across.
4. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck.
5. Always turn off engine and remove key before performing maintenance or clearing blockages.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area with the engine off and cool. Do not smoke near the mower.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

1. Install steering control levers: Attach to mounting brackets and secure with provided pins.
2. Attach seat: Position seat on mounting plate and secure with bolts.
3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) cable first, then black (-) cable to battery terminals.
4. Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30 (approx. 2 quarts) as specified in engine manual.
5. Add fuel: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87.
6. Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to 14 PSI.

CAUTION! Ensure mower is on a flat, stable surface during assembly. Use assistance for heavy components.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna Z246
• Engine: 24 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin OHV
• Cutting Width: 46 inches
• Transmission: Dual hydrostatic pumps, infinite forward/reverse speeds
• Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4.5 inches
• Turning Radius: Zero-turn
• Weight: 580 lbs (approx.)
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty (residential use)

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Control Panel: Ignition key switch, PTO engagement switch, throttle control, choke, hour meter, headlight switch.

Steering Levers: Left lever controls left rear wheel; right lever controls right rear wheel. Push both levers forward to move forward, pull back to reverse. To turn, move one lever slower than the other or in opposite directions.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit in operator seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Move steering levers to neutral (outward) position. 4. Set throttle to mid-position. 5. Turn ignition key to START. Release key once engine starts.

Stopping Procedure: 1. Disengage PTO (cutting deck). 2. Move steering levers to neutral. 3. Engage parking brake. 4. Turn ignition key to OFF. Remove key.

Cutting Deck Operation

The 46-inch cutting deck provides a clean, even cut when properly adjusted and maintained.

1. Engaging Deck: With engine running at operating RPM, pull up on the PTO switch to engage blades.
2. Cutting Height Adjustment: Use the deck lift lever located near the operator's left side to raise or lower the deck. Set height according to grass conditions.
3. Mowing Patterns: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cutting. Alternate mowing direction weekly to prevent grass matting.
4. Deck Wash Port: Connect garden hose to deck wash port after mowing to clean underside of deck (engine OFF).

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Keep deck blades sharp and balanced.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life. Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Note: Service intervals may vary based on operating conditions. Use only genuine Husqvarna replacement parts.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
2. Change engine oil and filter while engine is warm.
3. Remove spark plugs and add 1 tablespoon of oil into each cylinder. Crank engine slowly, then reinstall plugs.
4. Clean entire mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
5. Store in a dry, covered area. Inflate tires to recommended pressure and place on blocks to relieve tire stress.
6. Disconnect battery negative cable or use a battery maintainer.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer. Drain fuel if storing longer than 90 days.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: For technical support, contact Husqvarna at 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com/us.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna Z246 mowers are covered by a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Commercial use warranty may differ. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover wear items (blades, belts, tires), damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or improper storage. Keep your dated sales receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty claims, contact an authorized Husqvarna service dealer.

Registration: Register your product online at www.husqvarna.com/us to activate your warranty and receive product updates.