Owners Manual for Husqvarna Z254F

The Husqvarna Z254F is a 54-inch zero-turn riding mower featuring a 26 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin engine, fabricated steel cutting deck, Hydro-Gear EZT transmission for smooth operation, ergonomic high-back seat with armrests, cruise control, electric PTO engagement, and a 3.5-gallon fuel tank. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

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: 26 HP Kohler engine, 54-inch fabricated steel deck, zero-turn steering levers, ergonomic seat, electric PTO switch, cruise control, and dual hydrostatic transmissions.

Feature	Description
Engine	26 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin, OHV
Cutting Width	54 inches
Transmission	Hydro-Gear EZT, dual hydrostatic
Deck Material	Fabricated steel, 10-gauge
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable, with armrests
PTO Engagement	Electric switch
Steering	Zero-turn, lap bar controls
Blade Engagement	Manual lever
Cruise Control	Standard feature

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering levers: Attach to control panel per diagram.
Attach seat: Bolt seat to frame; adjust position for comfort.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30; fill to dipstick mark.
Add fuel: Use unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

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

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move levers to neutral, turn key.
Driving: Release parking brake; move levers forward/backward to steer.
Mowing: Engage PTO switch; adjust speed with throttle.
Stopping: 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 over 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Z254F
Engine: 26 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin
Cutting Deck: 54-inch fabricated steel
Transmission: Hydro-Gear EZT dual hydrostatic
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4.5 inches (12 positions)
Turning Radius: Zero-turn capability
Weight: 580 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 3-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and for debris.

Every 8 hours: Clean deck, check blade condition.

Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, replace oil filter.

Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug.

Every 200 hours: Change hydraulic fluid, check belts.

Seasonally: Grease fittings, inspect battery.

Engine Care

Kohler 7000 Series engine maintenance guidelines.

Oil change: Use SAE 10W-30; change every 50 hours or seasonally.
Air filter: Replace paper element every 100 hours; clean pre-cleaner if equipped.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel filter: Replace if flow is restricted.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always run engine at full throttle when mowing for proper cooling.

Deck Adjustment & Care

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Height adjustment: Use lever to select cutting height (1.5-4.5 inches).
Leveling deck: Park on flat surface; measure blade tips to ground; adjust hangers.
Blade sharpening: Remove blades; sharpen at 30-degree angle; balance before reinstalling.
Belt tension: Check for wear; adjust idler pulley if belt slips.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before servicing deck or blades.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System (OPS): Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade brake clutch: Stops blades within seconds of disengagement.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Add fuel stabilizer: Run engine 5 minutes to circulate.
Change oil: Remove old oil; replace with fresh.
Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Clean deck: Remove all grass and debris.
Cover mower: Use breathable cover if stored outdoors.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank over 30 days without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna Z254F includes a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, improper maintenance, commercial use. For claims, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer with proof of purchase. 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	Charge/replace battery; check fuel flow; replace filter.
Uneven cutting	Deck not level, dull blades	Level deck; sharpen or replace blades.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Clean/replace air filter; replace spark plug.
Vibration	Loose blade, damaged spindle	Tighten blade bolts; inspect spindle for wear.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; purge air per manual.

Reset: Check fuses and wiring connections if electrical components fail.

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