Husqvarna Riding Mower YTH18542 Manual

The Husqvarna YTH18542 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, 6-speed gear drive, adjustable cutting height, comfortable high-back seat, cup holder, and durable steel frame. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting Deck Operation 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Engine	18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single cylinder
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable comfort seat
Deck Engagement	Electric PTO clutch
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Hour Meter	Tracks engine hours for maintenance

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 or 10W-30, check dipstick.
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

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

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, engage PTO off, turn key.
Driving: Release parking brake, use forward/reverse pedals.
Mowing: Engage PTO lever, adjust speed with pedal.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Always sit in seat when starting. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Deck: 42-inch, stamped steel
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30 or 10W-30)
Cutting Height: 1.5 - 4 inches (6 positions)
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, oil level, fuel
Every 8 hours	Check deck for debris, inspect blades
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check belts
Seasonally	Sharpen blades, grease fittings
Storage	Add fuel stabilizer, clean deck

Cutting Deck Operation

The 42-inch cutting deck provides even cutting performance.

Height adjustment: Use lever to select cutting height (1.5-4 inches).
Deck engagement: Engage PTO lever only at full throttle.
Mowing patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Slope mowing: Mow across slopes, not up and down.
Disengagement: Always disengage PTO before stopping.

Tip: Keep deck clean of grass buildup for better performance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Clean mower: Remove all grass and debris.
Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer or drain tank completely.
Oil change: Replace oil at end of season.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place.
Cover: Use weather-resistant cover if stored outdoors.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Keep away from open flames.

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 3 seconds when disengaged.

Care & Cleaning

Allow engine to cool before cleaning. Use mild detergent and water for exterior. Never use pressure washer on engine or electrical components.

CAUTION! Avoid water on engine air intake, exhaust, or electrical connections.

Warranty Information

2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty claims, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel	Charge battery, add fuel, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades, operate at full throttle
Vibration during operation	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Check blade balance, tighten bolts
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, linkage adjustment	Check fluid level, adjust linkage

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

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