Husqvarna Z242F Service Manual

The Husqvarna Z242F is a 42-inch zero-turn riding mower featuring a 22 HP Kawasaki FR Series engine, fabricated 10-gauge steel deck, Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, and ergonomic controls. This manual provides essential information for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, maintenance schedules, common procedures, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22 HP Kawasaki FR Series engine, Fabricated 10-gauge steel 42-inch deck, Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, Dual lever steering controls, Comfortable high-back seat, 3.5-gallon fuel tank.

Feature	Description
Engine	22 HP Kawasaki FR Series, OHV, air-cooled
Cutting Width	42 inches
Deck Construction	Fabricated 10-gauge steel
Transmission	Hydro-Gear EZT, zero-turn
Steering	Dual lever control for speed and direction
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO clutch
Cutting Height Adjustment	Lever-actuated, 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Wheels	Front: 13 x 6.5-6, Rear: 20 x 10-8

Safety Information

Always follow safety procedures to prevent injury or damage.

1. Read manual: Understand all instructions before operation.
2. Clear area: Remove debris, stones, and toys from mowing path.
3. Wear protection: Use safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy shoes.
4. No riders: Only operator on mower; no passengers.
5. Slope operation: Mow up and down slopes, not across; avoid steep inclines.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never operate without discharge chute or guards in place.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna Z242F.
• Engine: Kawasaki FR651V, 22 HP, 4-stroke, air-cooled.
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade.
• Transmission: Hydro-Gear EZT, integrated hydrostatic.
• Speed: Forward: 0-6.5 mph, Reverse: 0-3 mph.
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4.5 inches (in 0.5-inch increments).
• Weight: Approximately 540 lbs.
• Warranty: Refer to Husqvarna warranty documentation.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends mower life.

Before each use: Check engine oil level, tire pressure, and for loose hardware. Inspect blades for damage.

Every 8 hours or daily: Clean deck underside, check battery connections.

Every 50 hours: Change engine oil and filter (first change at 8 hours). Lubricate deck spindles and pivot points.

Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug. Check drive belt tension.

Every 300 hours: Change hydraulic fluid and filter (transmission).

Seasonally: Sharpen blades, check battery charge, inspect for wear.

Engine Service

Kawasaki FR651V engine maintenance procedures.

1. Oil change: Run engine to warm oil. Drain via plug, refill with SAE 10W-30 (approx. 1.9 qts).
2. Air filter: Replace paper element; clean pre-filter if equipped.
3. Spark plug: Gap 0.030 inch; replace annually or per hours.
4. Fuel filter: Replace inline filter annually.
5. Cooling fins: Keep clean of debris for proper cooling.

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

Deck Service & Blade Replacement

Maintaining the cutting deck for optimal performance.

1. Deck removal: Lower deck, disconnect PTO drive belt, remove suspension pins/linkage.
2. Blade replacement: Block blade, use socket to remove bolt (usually 5/8 or 3/4 inch). Install new blade with cutting edge towards ground.
3. Belt replacement: Release idler tension, route new belt per diagram (deck and PTO).
4. Deck leveling: Adjust suspension links to ensure even cut (measure blade tips).

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before working on deck or blades.

Hydraulic System

Hydro-Gear EZT transmission service.

Fluid change: Use Hydro-Gear 15W-50 fluid. Drain via plugs, refill to fill port (approx. 3.5 qts total for both pumps).

Bypass valves: Locate for moving mower if disabled.

Drive belt: Inspect for wear; replace if cracked or glazed.

Note: Transmission is sealed; no external adjustments needed under normal use.

Electrical System

Battery, wiring, and electrical components.

1. Battery: 12V, maintain charge; clean terminals; secure connections.
2. Fuses: Check main fuse (20A) and PTO fuse if electrical issues occur.
3. PTO clutch: Test engagement; replace if slipping or not engaging.
4. Safety switches: Seat, brake, and blade engagement switches must function for operation.

Tip: Use multimeter to test voltage and continuity.

Controls & Adjustments

Steering levers, throttle, and cutting height.

Neutral adjustment: Levers should return to neutral; adjust linkage if mower creeps.

Steering tension: Adjust via knob on each lever for desired resistance.

Cutting height: Set via lever; ensure deck is level.

Parking brake: Engage fully; adjust cable if not holding.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Fuel: Add stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, or drain tank and carburetor.
2. Battery: Remove, store fully charged in cool, dry place.
3. Clean: Thoroughly clean deck and undercarriage.
4. Protect: Store indoors or under cover; inflate tires to proper pressure.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer; can cause carburetor issues.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug connection, battery charge, safety switches.
Poor cut quality	Dull blades, deck level	Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; check belt tension.
Loss of power	Air filter, fuel filter	Replace air and fuel filters; check for restricted fuel flow.
Mower vibrates excessively	Damaged blade, loose part	Inspect blades for damage; tighten spindle bolts and deck hardware.
Hydrostatic drive issues	Low fluid, belt	Check transmission fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear.

Reset: Ensure all safety switches are engaged properly.

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