Husqvarna GT52XLS Owner's Manual

The Husqvarna GT52XLS is a 52-inch zero-turn riding mower featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, ergonomic controls, and a durable cutting deck. Designed for residential and light commercial use, it offers superior maneuverability and cutting performance. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 52-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, Zero-turn steering levers, Ergonomic high-back seat, Hydrostatic transmission, Engine with electric start, Fuel tank, Deck lift lever, Parking brake.

FeatureDescription
Cutting Deck52-inch fabricated steel, adjustable cutting height
SteeringDual hydrostatic zero-turn levers for precise control
TransmissionHydrostatic, no belts for smooth operation
EnginePowerful gasoline engine with electric start
SeatErgonomic, adjustable high-back seat for comfort
Deck LiftManual lever for adjusting cutting height
Parking BrakeEngages automatically when levers are in neutral
Fuel CapacityLarge capacity fuel tank for extended operation
Blade EngagementElectric PTO (Power Take-Off) switch
HeadlightsIntegrated headlights for low-light conditions

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

  1. Always wear appropriate safety gear: eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy footwear.
  2. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and other objects before starting.
  3. Never allow children or untrained persons to operate the mower.
  4. Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
  5. Disengage blades, set parking brake, and turn off engine before leaving operator's position.

WARNING! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from deck area. Always look behind when backing up.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering levers: Attach to control panel using provided hardware.
  2. Attach seat: Mount seat onto seat plate and secure with bolts.
  3. Connect battery: Attach positive (red) and negative (black) cables to battery terminals.
  4. Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to recommended PSI (listed in manual).
  5. Add engine oil and fuel: Use recommended oil type and fresh unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Check for loose parts before first use.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Control Panel: Ignition key, PTO switch, Choke, Throttle, Hour meter.

Steering Levers: Left lever controls left wheel; right lever controls right wheel. Push both forward to move forward, pull back to reverse. Move one lever to turn.

Operation Steps:

  1. Set parking brake: Ensure levers are in neutral outward position.
  2. Adjust throttle to fast position.
  3. Turn ignition key to start engine.
  4. Release parking brake by pulling levers inward to neutral.
  5. Engage PTO switch to start blades.
  6. Use steering levers to control speed and direction.

Stopping: Disengage PTO, move levers to neutral outward position, engage parking brake, turn ignition key to off.

Cutting Deck Operation

The cutting deck is designed for efficient grass cutting with minimal clumping.

  1. Adjust cutting height: Use deck lift lever to set desired height (check gauge).
  2. Engage blades: Ensure engine is at full throttle, then engage PTO switch.
  3. Mowing patterns: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cutting.
  4. Disengage blades: Turn off PTO when crossing driveways or obstacles.
  5. Clean deck: After use, raise deck and clean underside to prevent rust and buildup.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Avoid mowing in wet conditions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, inspect for loose parts, check oil level
Every 8 hoursClean deck underside, check blades for damage
Every 50 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter, lubricate pivot points
Every 100 hoursReplace spark plug, check battery terminals
Every seasonSharpen or replace blades, check transmission fluid

Blade Sharpening: Remove blades, sharpen to original angle, balance before reinstalling.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

  1. Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
  2. Change engine oil and run engine to circulate new oil.
  3. Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
  4. Disconnect battery and store in a cool, dry place.
  5. Store mower in a clean, dry area, protected from weather.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel tank, clogged fuel filterCharge/replace battery; add fuel; replace fuel filter.
Uneven cuttingDull blades, uneven tire pressure, deck not levelSharpen/replace blades; adjust tire pressure; level deck.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old spark plug, clogged deckClean/replace air filter; replace spark plug; clean deck.
Hydrostatic transmission issuesLow fluid, air in systemCheck fluid level; bleed air from system per manual.
Blades won't engagePTO switch faulty, blown fuse, loose connectionCheck PTO switch; replace fuse; check wiring connections.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna GT52XLS comes with a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Residential warranty period: XX years for deck/transmission, XX years for engine (check specific model). Commercial use may have different terms. Keep original receipt for warranty claims.

For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact customer service at 1-800-HUSKY-62.

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