Husqvarna Mowers Z248F Owners Manual

The Husqvarna Z248F is a 24 HP zero-turn riding mower featuring a fabricated 48-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, ergonomic high-back seat, electric PTO engagement, and a durable steel frame. Designed for residential and light commercial use, it offers superior maneuverability, cutting performance, and comfort. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Controls & Operation 5. Specifications 6. Cutting Deck Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Engine Care 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Troubleshooting 11. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 48-inch fabricated steel deck, dual hydrostatic pumps, lap bar steering controls, electric PTO switch, 12V battery, fuel tank, and operator presence system.

FeatureDescription
Engine24 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin OHV engine
Cutting Deck48-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system with anti-scalp rollers
TransmissionDual hydrostatic pumps with integrated wheel motors
SteeringLap bar control for zero-turn maneuverability
PTO EngagementElectric clutch for blade engagement
SeatHigh-back, adjustable ergonomic seat with armrests
Fuel Capacity3.5-gallon tank
Cutting HeightAdjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Drive SystemTwo-wheel drive with pneumatic tires
Safety FeaturesOperator presence system, parking brake, blade brake clutch

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

  1. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
  2. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, toys, and other objects before starting.
  3. Never allow children or untrained persons to operate the mower.
  4. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
  5. Always engage parking brake before dismounting.

WARNING! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never remove safety devices or guards. Shut off engine and remove key before performing maintenance.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering lap bars: Attach to control panel using provided hardware.
  2. Attach seat: Bolt seat assembly to frame; adjust position for operator comfort.
  3. Install battery: Connect red (+) cable first, then black (-) cable; secure battery holder.
  4. Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
  5. Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 oil; fill with unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Use two people when handling heavy components. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

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

Lap Bars: Push forward to move forward; pull back to reverse. Neutral position is centered. To turn, move one lap bar forward while pulling the other back.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit in seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to halfway. 4. Turn key to START. 5. Once started, adjust throttle to desired speed.

Stopping Procedure: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Return lap bars to neutral. 3. Engage parking brake. 4. Turn key to OFF and remove.

Specifications

Cutting Deck Operation

The 48-inch fabricated deck provides even cutting and durability.

  1. Engaging Blades: Ensure throttle is at full speed. Push PTO switch to engage blades.
  2. Height Adjustment: Use deck lift lever to set cutting height. Adjust while stationary.
  3. Mowing Patterns: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cutting. Alternate direction weekly.
  4. Deck Wash Port: Connect garden hose to clean underside of deck after each use.

Tip: Keep deck clean of grass buildup to maintain optimal airflow and cutting performance.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, fuel level, and for loose hardware
Every 8 hoursCheck engine oil level; clean deck underside
Every 50 hoursChange engine oil; check air filter; grease fittings
Every 100 hoursReplace spark plugs; check belt tension
Every seasonSharpen blades; check battery charge; inspect tires

Note: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance procedures.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance ensures long life and reliable performance.

  1. Oil Change: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 detergent oil. Capacity: 2 quarts (with filter).
  2. Air Filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours; replace paper element annually.
  3. Spark Plugs: Gap at 0.030 inches. Replace every 100 hours or if fouled.
  4. Fuel System: Use fresh unleaded gasoline. Add fuel stabilizer for storage over 30 days.

WARNING! Allow engine to cool before performing maintenance. Do not smoke near fuel.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for storage to prevent damage and ensure easy startup.

  1. Clean thoroughly: Remove grass and debris from deck, engine, and frame.
  2. Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes to circulate.
  3. Battery care: Disconnect battery cables; store battery in a cool, dry place on a trickle charger.
  4. Protect from elements: Store in a dry, covered location. Cover with a breathable tarp.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel, safety switchCheck battery charge; ensure fuel; sit fully in seat; check parking brake.
Poor cutting qualityDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deckSharpen blades; run at full throttle; clean deck underside.
Uneven cuttingDeck not level, tire pressure unevenLevel deck; adjust tire pressure to specification.
Loss of powerClogged air filter, old fuel, dirty spark plugClean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel; check spark plug.
Hydrostatic drive sluggishLow hydraulic fluid, air in systemCheck fluid level; purge air per manual.

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

Warranty & Support

Husqvarna Z248F is covered by a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For technical support, parts, or service, contact:

Always use genuine Husqvarna parts for repairs to maintain warranty and performance.

Husqvarna Mowers Z248F Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025