Husqvarna Z 246 Owner's Manuals

The Husqvarna Z 246 is a 24-horsepower zero-turn riding mower featuring a 46-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, dual-lever steering controls, comfortable high-back seat, and a durable steel frame. Designed for residential and light commercial use, it offers efficient mowing with excellent maneuverability. 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. Engine Care 7. Deck Adjustment & Care 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch fabricated steel deck, Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, dual lap bars for steering, electric PTO clutch, 12V battery, and operator presence system.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin OHV engine
Cutting Deck	46-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	Hydro-Gear EZT hydrostatic, zero-turn capability
Steering Controls	Dual lap bars for independent wheel control
PTO Engagement	Electric clutch, dash-mounted switch
Seat	High-back, adjustable, with suspension
Fuel Tank	3.5-gallon capacity
Battery	12V, 280 CCA
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4.5 inches, adjustable in 0.5-inch increments
Drive Speed	Up to 7 mph forward, 3 mph reverse

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering levers: Attach to control panel per instructions.
Attach seat: Bolt seat to frame using provided hardware.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables; secure battery.
Install deck: Lift mower, attach deck with pins and belts; adjust tension.
Add fluids: Fill engine with oil (check manual for type); add fuel.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance or lifting equipment. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and deck clearance.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move levers to neutral, turn key.
Driving: Slowly push levers forward to move forward; pull back to reverse.
Turning: Move one lever more than the other for zero-turn maneuver.
Mowing: Engage PTO switch once engine is running at full throttle.
Shutdown: Disengage PTO, return levers to neutral, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Husqvarna Z 246
Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin
Cutting Width: 46 inches
Transmission: Hydro-Gear EZT hydrostatic
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4.5 inches
Max Speed: 7 mph forward, 3 mph reverse
Tire Size Front: 13 x 6.5-6
Tire Size Rear: 20 x 10-10
Weight: 580 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 3-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, oil level, fuel, and for debris
Every 8 hours	Check deck belts and blade condition
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil and filter
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plugs
Every 200 hours	Change transmission fluid; inspect battery
Seasonally	Sharpen blades; grease fittings; check tire wear

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

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

Oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 (check manual); change every 50 hours.
Air Filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours; replace paper element every 100 hours.
Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.); add fuel stabilizer for storage.
Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually or every 100 hours.
Cooling Fins: Keep clean of grass and debris to prevent overheating.

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

Deck Adjustment & Care

Maintain deck for optimal cutting performance.

Leveling: Park on flat surface; adjust deck lift linkage to ensure even cut.
Blade Sharpening: Remove blades; sharpen to maintain 0.060-inch cutting edge.
Belt Tension: Check drive and deck belts; adjust if slipping occurs.
Cleaning: After each use, clean underside of deck to prevent rust and buildup.
Spindle Lubrication: Grease spindles every 25 hours of operation.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing deck or blades.

Safety Features

The Z 246 includes multiple safety systems.

Operator Presence System: Engine shuts off if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged.
Parking Brake: Must be engaged to start engine.
Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 7 seconds of PTO disengagement.
Neutral Lockout: Levers must be in neutral to start.
Rollover Protection: Follow guidelines for slope operation to prevent tip-over.

Important: Never bypass safety switches. Replace if malfunctioning.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage, especially winter.

Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes; or drain tank completely.
Battery: Remove, clean terminals, and store in cool, dry place on a trickle charger.
Engine: Change oil and filter; remove spark plug and add 1 oz of oil to cylinder.
Deck: Clean thoroughly; apply light coat of oil to underside to prevent rust.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure; store off ground if possible.

CAUTION! Store in a dry, covered area away from children and pets.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna Z 246 includes a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase is required. For warranty service, contact an authorized Husqvarna dealer. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or call 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, clogged fuel filter, safety switch engaged	Charge/test battery; replace fuel filter; ensure seat switch is engaged.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck not level, low engine RPM	Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; check throttle setting.
Mower vibrates excessively	Unbalanced blade, loose pulley, damaged spindle	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolts; inspect spindle.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, air in system, worn belts	Check fluid level; purge air; inspect/replace drive belts.
Battery drains quickly	Faulty alternator, parasitic draw, old battery	Test charging system; check for shorts; replace battery if needed.

Reset: For electronic issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset system.

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