Husqvarna Mowers YTH18542 Manual

The Husqvarna YTH18542 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, 6-speed forward and reverse gears, comfortable high-back seat, 2.5-gallon fuel tank, and a durable steel cutting deck with 3-in-1 discharge capability (mulch, bag, side discharge). Below are key sections for 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. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18.5 HP engine, 42-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, overhead valve
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
PTO Engagement	Electric clutch, dash-mounted switch
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (lever-operated)
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Deck Material	12-gauge steel, reinforced
Discharge Options	Mulch, bag, side discharge (kit required)
Warranty	Limited 2-year residential warranty

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys before starting.
Never allow children or pets in area while mowing.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Always engage parking brake before dismounting.
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

WARNING! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from deck while engine is running. Never remove discharge chute or safety devices.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 1.5 quarts).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).

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

Specifications

Model: YTH18542
Engine: 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 540cc
Cutting Deck: 42-inch, 12-gauge steel
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Cutting Height: 1.5 - 4 inches (6 positions)
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Weight: 485 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited residential

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, Choke, Throttle, Hour meter, Headlight switch.

Steering & Drive: Steering wheel, Forward/reverse pedal (hydrostatic), Brake pedal, Parking brake lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Turn key to START. 5. Release key to RUN position.

Stopping: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Move throttle to SLOW. 3. Turn key to OFF. 4. Engage parking brake.

Cutting Deck Operation

Engage deck only when engine is at full throttle.

Adjust cutting height: Use lever beside seat before starting.
Engage PTO: Push switch forward while throttle is at FAST.
Mow in overlapping passes for even cut.
Disengage PTO when crossing driveways or obstacles.
For bagging: Install collection bag and ensure chute is closed.
For mulching: Install mulch plug and close side discharge.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Keep deck clean of grass buildup.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, inspect for loose parts, check oil level
Every 8 hours	Check deck belts for wear, clean deck underside
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first change at 8 hours), check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug, grease fittings
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, change oil filter, check transmission fluid
Seasonally	Sharpen blades, check battery charge, inspect tires

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for storage if not used for 30+ days.

Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
Change engine oil and run engine briefly to circulate.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery negative terminal or use maintainer.
Store in dry, covered area, preferably on level surface.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage fuel system.

Warranty Information

Husqvarna provides a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, improper maintenance, commercial use, accidents, or modifications. Keep receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty claims, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer with model and serial numbers (located on frame near rear axle).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Check battery charge; ensure fuel; sit firmly on seat; check parking brake.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; run engine at full throttle when mowing.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose parts	Stop engine immediately; check for bent blade; tighten deck bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain old fuel and refill with fresh gasoline.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear and proper tension.

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