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Stop engine, remove key, wait for moving parts to stop, and disconnect spark plug wire.
Remove discharge chute assembly by detaching two locking flange nuts. Retain parts for operation without mulch kit.
Remove three 5/8" hex nuts and washers retaining blades. Retain blades, nuts, and washers for kit installation.
Remove eight 3/8 x 1/2" tapping screws from the top of the deck. Retain screws for operation without mulch kit.
Install baffles from underside of deck and retain with nuts. Install mulch blades with washers and torque nuts.
Return unit to operating position and connect the spark plug wire.
Mow at full throttle, half speed, and only dry grass to prevent clumping.
Keep mower blades sharp and cut no more than 1" at a time. Clean deck underside after mowing.
Do not wash mower with a high-pressure sprayer when cleaning the deck or mower.
Stop engine, remove key, wait for moving parts to stop, and disconnect spark plug wire.
Remove discharge chute assembly by detaching two locking flange nuts. Retain parts for operation without mulch kit.
Remove three 5/8" hex nuts and washers retaining blades. Retain blades, nuts, and washers for kit installation.
Remove eight 3/8 x 1/2" tapping screws from the top of the deck. Retain screws for operation without mulch kit.
Install baffles from underside of deck and retain with nuts. Install mulch blades with washers and torque nuts.
Return unit to operating position and connect the spark plug wire.
Mow at full throttle, half speed, and only dry grass to prevent clumping.
Keep mower blades sharp and cut no more than 1" at a time. Clean deck underside after mowing.
Do not wash mower with a high-pressure sprayer when cleaning the deck or mower.
This document describes the installation and features of the Ariens 52-inch Mulch Kit, designed to convert a standard mower deck into a mulching system. The kit is intended for use with specific Ariens mower models, enhancing their functionality by allowing grass clippings to be finely cut and returned to the lawn as natural fertilizer, rather than being discharged.
The primary function of the 52-inch Mulch Kit is to enable a mower to mulch grass clippings. Instead of discharging grass out of a side chute, the mulching system keeps the clippings circulating under the deck for a longer period. This extended circulation allows the blades to cut the grass into very small pieces. These finely cut clippings then fall back into the lawn, where they decompose quickly, returning valuable nutrients to the soil. This process eliminates the need to bag or rake clippings, saving time and effort, and promoting a healthier lawn. The kit includes specialized mulch baffles and blades that work together to create the necessary airflow and cutting action for effective mulching. The universal mulch baffles (item 1) and a center mulch baffle (item 2) are installed on the underside of the deck to create a closed chamber, preventing clippings from escaping prematurely. The 18-inch mulch blades (item 3) are designed with a different profile than standard discharge blades, featuring more cutting surfaces and a greater lift to keep clippings airborne longer for repeated cutting. The locking flange nuts (item 4) secure these components firmly in place.
The Mulch Kit is designed for straightforward installation, allowing users to convert their mower for mulching purposes. The installation process involves several steps, starting with safety precautions such as stopping the engine, removing the key, and disconnecting the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. The unit must then be raised and securely supported to access the underside of the deck. Users are instructed to remove the existing discharge chute assembly and the standard mower blades, retaining these parts for future operation without the mulch kit. The kit's universal and center mulch baffles are then installed on the underside of the deck, secured with the provided locking flange nuts. Following this, the specialized mulch blades are installed using the original washers and hex nuts, with specific torque requirements to ensure proper and safe attachment. Once the installation is complete, the unit can be returned to its operating position, and the spark plug wire reconnected.
For optimal mulching performance, several tips are provided. It is recommended to mow at full throttle to ensure maximum blade speed and effective cutting. Mowing at half speed is also mentioned, though full throttle is generally preferred for mulching. The kit is most effective when mowing dry grass, as wet grass tends to clump and can hinder the mulching process. Keeping the mower blades sharp is crucial for achieving a clean cut and fine clippings. Dull blades can tear grass, leading to an uneven cut and less efficient mulching. Users should also avoid cutting more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) of grass at a time. For tall grass, it is advised to set a higher cutting height for the first pass, then make a second or third pass with the deck set to the desired final cutting height. This multi-pass approach ensures that the grass is cut into smaller pieces gradually, preventing the mower from being overloaded and improving mulching quality.
The Mulch Kit's design also incorporates considerations for maintenance. The installation instructions emphasize the importance of retaining the original discharge chute assembly and standard blades. This allows users to easily revert their mower to a standard discharge setup if mulching is not desired for certain tasks or conditions. This flexibility ensures that the mower remains versatile.
Regular cleaning of the underside of the deck is highlighted as an important maintenance practice after each mowing session. This helps prevent the buildup of grass clippings, which can reduce mulching efficiency and potentially lead to rust or corrosion over time. While cleaning is important, a specific caution is given: DO NOT wash the mower with a high-pressure sprayer when cleaning the deck or mower. High-pressure water can force moisture into bearings, electrical components, and other sensitive areas, potentially causing damage or premature wear. Instead, a gentler cleaning method, such as using a hose with lower pressure or a brush, is implied to be more appropriate.
The process of installing the mulch blades involves specific torque requirements (100-120 lbf-ft or 136-163 N•m). Adhering to these torque specifications is critical for safety and proper operation, ensuring that the blades are securely fastened and do not come loose during use. Regular inspection of the blade nuts for proper tightness is an implied maintenance task to ensure continued safe operation. The kit also includes locking flange nuts, which are designed to provide a secure fastening and resist loosening due to vibration, contributing to the overall durability and low-maintenance nature of the installation.
The warning about sharp mower blades and the recommendation to wrap them or wear gloves during servicing underscores the importance of safety during any maintenance involving the blades. This highlights the need for careful handling when installing or removing the mulch blades, as well as during any subsequent sharpening or inspection. The overall design of the kit, with its robust components and clear instructions, aims to provide a reliable and manageable mulching solution for mower owners.
General| Model | 71514000 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 208cc |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Intake Height | 20 in |
| Starting System | Electric Start |
| Drive Type | Self-Propelled |
| Stages | Two-Stage |
