Husqvarna Z254F Service Manual

The Husqvarna Z254F is a 54-inch zero-turn riding mower powered by a 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, featuring a fabricated 10-gauge steel deck, Hydro-Gear EZT transmission, and a comfortable high-back seat. This service manual provides comprehensive instructions for maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and safety procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and component repair.

Safety Precautions

Before performing any service, read and understand all safety warnings. Always disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and battery before working on the mower.

Product Identification & Specifications

Locate the model and serial number plate on the frame under the seat or on the rear fender.

• Model: Z254F
• Deck Size: 54-inch (137 cm) Fabricated Steel
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 24 HP, 724cc, Twin Cylinder
• Transmission: Hydro-Gear EZT (Zero-Turn) - 2x independent pumps
• Fuel Capacity: 3.5 Gallons (13.2 L)
• Cutting Height: 1.5" - 4.5" (Adjustable in 0.5" increments)
• Drive System: Rear Wheel Drive, Hydrostatic
• Tires (Front): 15 x 6.00-6
• Tires (Rear): 20 x 10.00-10
• Weight: Approx. 580 lbs (263 kg)

Maintenance Schedule

Follow this schedule to maintain warranty and ensure reliable operation.

1. Before Each Use: Check tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level, and for loose hardware. Inspect blades for damage.
2. First 5 Hours: Change engine oil and filter (if equipped). Check transmission fluid level.
3. Every 50 Hours: Change engine oil. Clean/replace air filter. Check spark plug. Lubricate all grease fittings (deck spindles, pivot points).
4. Every 100 Hours: Change transmission fluid and filter. Replace fuel filter. Check battery terminals and charge.
5. Every 300 Hours/Seasonally: Replace spark plug. Inspect drive belts for wear. Check brake operation. Sharpen or replace blades.

WARNING! Use only recommended fluids and filters. Refer to engine manual for specific oil specifications.

Engine Service

Procedures for the Briggs & Stratton 24 HP engine.

Oil Change:

1. Run engine to warm oil. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug.
2. Place drain pan under oil drain plug (located on base of engine).
3. Remove plug and drain oil completely.
4. Reinstall plug and refill with SAE 30 or 10W-30 detergent oil (approx. 2 qts / 1.9 L). Check dipstick.

Air Filter Service: Remove cover, clean pre-cleaner (if foam), replace paper element if dirty. Do not oil paper filter.

Spark Plug: Gap: 0.030" (0.76 mm). Type: Champion RC12YC or equivalent. Replace annually.

Deck & Blade Service

Removal, sharpening, and balancing of cutting blades.

1. Raise deck to highest position and engage parking brake. Disconnect spark plug.
2. Use a block of wood to jam blade from turning. Remove blade bolt (typically reverse thread - turn clockwise to loosen).
3. Sharpen blade evenly, maintaining original cutting angle. Balance blade using a blade balancer.
4. Reinstall blade with cutting edge toward ground. Torque bolt to 70-90 ft-lbs.
5. Check deck leveling: Measure blade tip height at all four corners. Adjust via deck hanger rods.

Belt Replacement: Release tension on idler pulley, route new belt according to diagram on deck. Ensure proper engagement in pulleys.

Hydraulic System (EZT Transmission)

Service of the Hydro-Gear EZT transaxles.

Fluid & Filter Change (Every 100 hrs):

1. Clean area around fill cap/dipstick on each transmission.
2. Place drain pan underneath. Remove drain plug (if equipped) or suction fluid out via fill tube.
3. Remove and replace external filter (if equipped).
4. Refill with Hydro-Gear 20W-50 synthetic transaxle fluid (approx. 5.5 pints total for both). Check level with dipstick "FULL COLD".
5. Run engine with deck off for 5 minutes to purge air. Recheck fluid.

CAUTION! Do not mix fluid types. Overfilling can cause damage.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V, 280 CCA. Keep terminals clean and tight. Charge with a 2-amp charger if stored.

Fuse: Located on the wiring harness near battery. 20 Amp ATC type. Replace with same rating.

Starting Issues: Check battery voltage (>12.6V), connections, solenoid, and safety interlock switches (seat, parking brake, PTO).

Controls & Adjustments

Steering Control Levers: For neutral adjustment, loosen jam nut on linkage rod and adjust until levers are even and mower does not creep when levers are in neutral position.

Parking Brake: Adjust cable tension so brake fully engages when lever is pulled up.

PTO Clutch Engagement: Ensure electric clutch engages fully when switch is activated. Check air gap if slipping (refer to clutch manual).

Tire & Wheel Service

Maintain front: 14 PSI, rear: 10 PSI for optimal traction and ride.

Wheel Bearing Check: Lift wheel off ground. Grasp tire at top and bottom, rock back and forth. Excessive play indicates worn bearings. Replace as needed.

Storage & Winterization

1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes to circulate.
2. Change engine oil and filter.
3. Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
4. Remove battery, clean terminals, and store in a cool, dry place on a trickle charger.
5. Store in a dry, covered location. Inflate tires to recommended pressure.

Troubleshooting Guide

For Technical Support: Contact Husqvarna at 1-800-487-5952 or visit www.husqvarna.com/us. Always reference your model and serial number.