Husqvarna GTH26K54T Manual Service

The Husqvarna GTH26K54T is a 26 HP Kohler gasoline-powered garden tractor with a 54-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, power steering, and differential lock. Designed for residential lawn care and light-duty towing, it features a durable steel frame, adjustable cutting height, and compatibility with various attachments. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Attachments 7. Operating Procedures 8. Safety Features 10. Care & Maintenance 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 26 HP Kohler engine, 54-inch mower deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, Power steering, Differential lock, Adjustable seat, Headlights, Hour meter.

FeatureDescription
Engine26 HP Kohler gasoline engine, air-cooled
Cutting Deck54-inch stamped steel, triple-blade
TransmissionHydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
PTO ClutchElectric engagement for mower deck
SteeringPower-assisted for ease of turning
Differential LockEngages for improved traction
Cutting HeightAdjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches
Fuel Tank3.5-gallon capacity
HeadlightsIntegrated for low-light operation
Hour MeterTracks engine operating hours

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
  2. Attach seat: Mount using provided hardware.
  3. Install mower deck: Lower tractor, align with mounting points, secure with pins and belts.
  4. Connect battery: Attach positive (+) then negative (-) terminals.
  5. Add fluids: Fill engine with oil (check manual for type/capacity); add gasoline.

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

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

  1. Check engine oil level: Use dipstick; add if low.
  2. Check fuel level: Fill with fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Check tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (front: 14, rear: 10).
  4. Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to controls.
  5. Start engine: Set parking brake, ensure PTO is off, turn key to START.
  6. Test controls: Practice forward/reverse, steering, and brake operation in a safe area.

CAUTION! Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Operator station includes ignition, throttle, choke, PTO switch, parking brake, and motion controls.

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, headlight switch, hour meter, fuel gauge.

Motion Controls: Forward/reverse pedal (hydrostatic), brake pedal.

Cutting Height: Adjust via lever at each wheel or central lever (depending on model).

Settings: Throttle control (fast/slow), choke (cold starts), differential lock engagement lever.

Connecting Attachments

Compatible with bagger, mulch kit, snow blade, and tow-behind spreaders.

  1. Turn off engine and remove key.
  2. Lower attachment to ground (if applicable).
  3. Align attachment with tractor hitch or mounting points.
  4. Secure with pins, bolts, or quick-hitches as instructed.
  5. Connect any necessary drive belts or hydraulic lines.
  6. Test attachment operation at low speed in a safe area.

Tip: Refer to attachment-specific manual for detailed instructions.

Operating Procedures

Standard mowing and transport operations.

  1. Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, ensure PTO off, turn key.
  2. Mowing: Engage PTO switch, adjust throttle to full, begin motion.
  3. Turning: Use power steering; reduce speed on slopes.
  4. Stopping: Disengage PTO, release motion pedal, apply brake, turn key off.
  5. Slope Operation: Mow up/down slopes, not across; avoid steep inclines.
  6. Towing: Use only approved hitch; do not exceed weight capacity.

WARNING! Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Keep bystanders away.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking Brake: Locks rear wheels. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within seconds of PTO disengagement. Safety Interlocks: Prevent starting unless brake set and PTO off.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool.

Regulatory Information

EPA and CARB certified for emissions. Meets ANSI/OPEI safety standards. Copyright © Husqvarna. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962. Keep this manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, dead batteryCheck fuel level; inspect spark plug; charge/test battery.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speedSharpen/replace blades; run at full throttle.
Excessive vibrationUnbalanced blade, loose partsStop engine, check blade balance, tighten bolts.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggishLow fluid, air in systemCheck fluid level; purge air per manual.
PTO won't engageBlown fuse, faulty switchCheck fuse; test switch continuity.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system if needed.

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

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