Husqvarna YT42XLS Owner's Manual

The Husqvarna YT42XLS is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, comfortable high-back seat, and a durable cutting deck. Designed for residential lawn care, it offers ease of operation, reliable performance, and essential safety features. Below are key sections covering 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 Adjustment 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Information 9. Warranty & Support 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO (Power Take-Off), 18 HP engine, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, and Hour meter.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	42 inches for efficient mowing
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control for forward/reverse
Engine	18 HP, single-cylinder, air-cooled
PTO Engagement	Electric switch for easy blade engagement
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Deck Wash Port	Connect garden hose to clean underside of deck
Headlights	For low-light operation
Hour Meter	Tracks usage for maintenance scheduling

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided hardware.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30; check dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10-12 PSI.

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 of debris.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move PTO to OFF, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake; press forward pedal to go forward, reverse pedal to go backward.
Mowing: Engage PTO switch to lower and spin blades; adjust speed as needed.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when dismounting. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: YT42XLS
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Engine: 18 HP, Briggs & Stratton or Kohler (varies by model)
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds forward and reverse
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches (adjustable in 0.25-inch increments)
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs
Warranty: Limited 2-year residential warranty

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, and fuel
First 5 hours	Change engine oil (break-in period)
Every 8 hours	Check tire pressure; inspect blades for damage
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil; replace oil filter; check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter; grease fittings; check battery
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug; check drive belt tension
Seasonally	Sharpen or replace blades; clean deck; check transmission fluid

Tip: Refer to engine manual for specific oil and filter recommendations.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface; set cutting height to middle position.
Measure distance from blade tips to ground at all four corners.
Adjust deck hangers to level front-to-back and side-to-side.
Recheck measurements after adjustment.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before working under deck. Ensure deck is securely attached.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
Change engine oil and replace filter.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in dry, covered area; cover with breathable tarp.

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

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Read manual thoroughly before operation.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers; only one operator on seat.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Keep hands and feet away from moving blades.
Turn off engine and remove key before servicing.
Use hearing protection during extended use.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always disengage PTO and wait for blades to stop before crossing driveways or dismounting.

Warranty & Support

Husqvarna provides a limited 2-year residential warranty. Register product online for warranty activation. For support, visit www.husqvarna.com or contact 1-800-487-5962. Keep receipt and model/serial numbers for service requests.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Parking brake not set; PTO engaged; dead battery	Set parking brake; disengage PTO; charge or replace battery.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades; deck not level; low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades; level deck; check throttle setting.
Excessive vibration	Damaged or unbalanced blade; loose bolts	Inspect and replace blade if damaged; tighten deck bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter; old fuel; dirty spark plug	Replace air filter; use fresh fuel; clean or replace spark plug.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid; drive belt loose or worn	Check fluid level; inspect and adjust/replace drive belt.

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

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