Husqvarna GTH26K54T Manual Maintenance

The Husqvarna GTH26K54T is a 26 HP Kohler-powered riding lawn tractor with a 54-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, and electric PTO. This maintenance manual covers essential procedures for safety, routine service, troubleshooting, and parts information to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Below are key sections for safety, maintenance schedules, procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 26 HP Kohler V-Twin engine, 54-inch fabricated mower deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, 12V battery, Hour meter, Headlights, Cup holder, Adjustable high-back seat.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage.

1. Read manual thoroughly before operation or maintenance.
2. Perform maintenance only with engine off, key removed, and PTO disengaged.
3. Allow engine to cool before servicing.
4. Use proper tools and replacement parts.
5. Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling fuel, oil, or blades.

WARNING! Never operate without safety devices (guards, shields) in place. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Maintenance Schedule

Refer to hour meter for service intervals.

1. Before each use: Check tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level, and for loose parts.
2. Every 8 hours: Clean deck underside, check battery terminals.
3. Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, check air filter, grease fittings, inspect blades.
4. Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plugs, check drive belt tension.
5. Every 200 hours: Change transmission fluid (if applicable), replace fuel filter.
6. Seasonal: Sharpen/replace blades, check battery charge, prepare for storage.

CAUTION! Adhere to schedule; failure can void warranty and cause premature failure.

Specifications

• Model: Husqvarna GTH26K54T
• Engine: Kohler 7000 Series, 26 HP, V-Twin, OHV
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
• Oil Capacity: 2.0 quarts (with filter)
• Oil Type: SAE 10W-30 (above 32°F) / 5W-30 (below 32°F)
• Cutting Width: 54 inches
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4.5 inches
• Transmission: Hydrostatic, sealed system
• Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
• Max Towing Capacity: 450 lbs

Controls and Indicators

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, Choke, Throttle, Hour meter, Headlight switch. Steering: Tilt wheel. Deck lift: Electric lift lever. Parking brake: Lever left of seat.

Operation: Start with brake set, PTO off. Engage PTO only at full throttle. Use choke for cold starts.

Maintenance Indicators: Hour meter tracks service intervals. Check engine light (if equipped) indicates issues.

Engine Maintenance

Kohler 26 HP V-Twin procedures.

1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil. Drain via plug, replace filter, refill with 2.0 quarts 10W-30.
2. Air Filter: Replace paper element every 100 hours; clean pre-cleaner if equipped.
3. Spark Plugs: Gap 0.030 inches; replace every 100 hours.
4. Fuel Filter: Replace inline filter every 200 hours.
5. Cooling System: Keep fins and shrouds clean of debris.

Tip: Use genuine Kohler filters and plugs for best performance.

Cutting Deck Maintenance

54-inch fabricated deck care.

1. Blade Sharpening: Remove deck, secure blade, sharpen to original angle (balance after).
2. Blade Replacement: Torque to 450 in-lbs. Replace if cracked or excessively worn.
3. Deck Cleaning: Scrape underside after each use to prevent rust and buildup.
4. Belt Inspection: Check deck drive belt for cracks/wear; adjust tension per manual.
5. Deck Leveling: Adjust gauge wheels and lift links for even cut.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing blades. Wear heavy gloves.

Drive System & Transmission

Hydrostatic transmission maintenance.

1. Fluid Check: Most units are sealed; refer to manual for serviceable models.
2. Belt Inspection: Check drive belt for wear; replace if frayed.
3. Linkage Adjustment: Ensure control linkage moves freely without binding.
4. Tire Pressure: Maintain 12 PSI (front), 8 PSI (rear) for traction and even cut.

CAUTION! Do not overfill transmission; use specified fluid only.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine 5 minutes to circulate.
2. Change oil and filter.
3. Remove battery, store fully charged in cool, dry place.
4. Clean entire tractor, especially deck underside.
5. Store in dry, covered area; block up tires if storing long-term.

Tip: Fog engine through spark plug holes for long storage (refer to engine manual).

Parts & Accessories

Genuine Husqvarna parts recommended.

Common parts: Blades (part #532404552), Air filter (part #532197128), Oil filter (part #532197128), Spark plugs (Champion RC12YC), Drive belt (part #532404552).

Ordering: Use model number GTH26K54T when ordering. Visit www.husqvarna.com or contact dealer.

Troubleshooting

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

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