Husqvarna YTH20K46 Owner's Manual

The Husqvarna YTH20K46 is a 20 HP Kohler Courage twin-cylinder riding lawn tractor with a 46-inch fabricated mower deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO, and cruise control. It features a comfortable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and a 12-volt outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Mower Deck Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Maintenance 8. Transmission & Drive System 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20 HP Kohler Courage engine, 46-inch fabricated mower deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO, Cruise control, Headlights, Cup holder, 12-volt outlet.

FeatureDescription
Engine20 HP Kohler Courage twin-cylinder, air-cooled
Cutting Width46-inch fabricated steel deck
TransmissionHydrostatic, foot-pedal controlled
PTOElectric clutch engagement
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive
SeatHigh-back, adjustable
Fuel Capacity2.5 gallons
HeadlightsIntegrated for low-light operation
Cruise ControlMaintains constant speed
12-volt outletFor accessories

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly required for steering wheel, seat, and mower deck.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
  2. Attach seat: Mount to frame using bolts and washers.
  3. Install mower deck: Lower deck under tractor, attach lift links and drive belt.
  4. Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
  5. Add fluids: Fill engine with oil (SAE 30), add gasoline (unleaded).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

  1. Ignition switch: Turn key to start engine.
  2. Brake pedal: Press to stop; must be engaged to start.
  3. Forward/reverse pedals: Control speed and direction.
  4. PTO switch: Engages mower blades.
  5. Throttle/choke: Controls engine speed and cold starts.
  6. Deck lift lever: Adjusts cutting height (1.5-4 inches).
  7. Cruise control: Set desired speed with switch.

CAUTION! Operate only in seated position with feet on footrests.

Specifications

Mower Deck Operation

Proper deck setup ensures even cutting.

  1. Level deck: Park on flat surface, adjust lift links for level side-to-side and front-to-back.
  2. Engage PTO: Only when seated, at reduced throttle.
  3. Adjust height: Use lever while moving slowly.
  4. Clean deck: Disengage PTO, shut off engine, remove grass buildup after use.
  5. Sharpen blades: Regularly for clean cuts; balance after sharpening.

Tip: Overlap cutting passes by 2-3 inches for even results.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck engine oil, tire pressure, and for debris.
First 5 hoursChange engine oil (break-in).
Every 8 hoursCheck tire pressure, deck level.
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter, grease fittings.
Every 50 hoursReplace air filter, check spark plug, sharpen blades.
Every 100 hoursChange transmission fluid, replace fuel filter.
Season endWinterize for storage.

Engine Maintenance

Kohler Courage engine requires specific care.

  1. Oil change: Use SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 10W-30 (all temps). Capacity: 1.5 quarts.
  2. Air filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours; replace paper element every 50 hours.
  3. Spark plug: Gap 0.030 inches; replace annually.
  4. Fuel filter: Replace inline filter every 100 hours.
  5. Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Transmission & Drive System

Hydrostatic transmission is sealed; maintenance limited to fluid changes.

  1. Fluid change: Every 100 hours or annually. Use Husqvarna hydrostatic fluid.
  2. Drive belt: Inspect for wear/cracks every 25 hours; replace if damaged.
  3. Pulley alignment: Ensure proper alignment for smooth operation.
  4. Tire pressure: Maintain 12 PSI front, 8 PSI rear for optimal traction.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to service transmission beyond fluid change; see authorized dealer.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage and corrosion.

  1. Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, or drain tank and carburetor.
  2. Oil: Change oil and filter before storage.
  3. Battery: Remove, clean terminals, store fully charged in cool, dry place.
  4. Clean: Wash tractor, deck; apply light oil to exposed metal surfaces.
  5. Store: In dry, covered location; block up deck to relieve tire pressure.

Tip: Label battery with date for seasonal rotation.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety labels and instructions.

DANGER! Carbon monoxide poisoning: Never operate in enclosed spaces.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, clogged fuel filter, bad spark plugCharge/replace battery; replace fuel filter/spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deckSharpen blades; run at full throttle; clean deck.
Excessive vibrationUnbalanced blade, loose pulley, damaged spindleBalance/replace blade; tighten pulley; inspect spindle.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old gasoline, slipping drive beltClean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel; adjust/replace belt.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggishLow fluid, air in systemCheck fluid level; purge air per manual.

Service: For complex issues, contact authorized Husqvarna dealer.

Support: 1-800-487-5952; www.husqvarna.com/us

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