Husqvarna YT42LS Owner's Manual

The Husqvarna YT42LS is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, and a durable cutting deck. Designed for residential lawn care, it offers comfort, ease of use, and reliable performance. 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 Operation 7. Engine Care 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO engagement, Comfortable high-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, and 18 HP engine.

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	42-inch, 3-blade stamped steel with anti-scalp rollers
Transmission	Hydrostatic, foot-pedal controlled for smooth speed changes
PTO Engagement	Electric switch for easy blade engagement
Engine	18 HP Briggs & Stratton or Kohler engine (model dependent)
Seat	Adjustable high-back seat for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with automotive-style steering
Deck Wash Port	Connect garden hose to clean under deck

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.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 as specified.
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10-12 PSI.

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

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Ignition switch: Turn key to start engine.
Brake pedal: Press to stop; must be engaged to start.
Forward/reverse pedals: Control speed and direction.
PTO switch: Engage/disengage cutting blades.
Cutting height lever: Adjust while parked.
Choke control: Use for cold starts.
Throttle control: Set engine speed.

CAUTION! Always sit in seat when starting. Keep feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: YT42LS
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Engine: 18 HP (Briggs & Stratton or Kohler)
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Cutting Heights: 1.5 - 4 inches (12 positions)
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, and for debris
Every 8 hours	Check battery connections and deck belts
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first 5 hours for break-in)
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, sharpen blades
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check transmission fluid
Seasonally	Grease fittings, inspect deck spindles

Cutting Deck Operation

Proper deck use ensures even cutting and deck longevity.

Engage PTO only at full throttle.
Adjust cutting height before starting.
Mow at steady pace; avoid overlapping more than 2 inches.
Use deck wash port after each use to prevent grass buildup.
Check blade balance and sharpness monthly.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Alternate mowing patterns.

Engine Care

Follow engine manual for specific maintenance.

Oil: Check level before each use; change per schedule.
Air filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner; replace paper element as needed.
Fuel: Use fresh gasoline; add fuel stabilizer for storage.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

WARNING! Engine is hot after operation. Allow to cool before servicing.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

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

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Drain fuel if storing over 30 days.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris before starting.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage PTO and set parking brake when not mowing.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

Warranty & Support

Husqvarna Limited Warranty: 2 years for residential use. Register product online at www.husqvarna.com. For technical support, contact 1-800-487-5962 or visit www.husqvarna.com. Keep receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure brake engaged and seat occupied.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades; operate at full throttle; adjust cutting height.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Stop engine immediately; check blade balance; tighten bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and replace fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, drive belt	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear.
Battery not charging	Loose connections, faulty alternator	Clean and tighten terminals; test charging system.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset electrical system.

Service: 1-800-487-5962; www.husqvarna.com