Z-BEAST FINISH MOWER 48ZB User manual

Owner’s Manual
This manual contains important safety instructions for the gasoline engine powered
lawnmower models: 48ZB
READ SAFETY WARNINGS AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
SAVE THIS MANUAL.
When you call the help-line you will need to have the following information:
Date of Purchase: _______________________
Location of Purchase: _______________________
Serial # - Mower: _______________________
Serial # - Engine: _______________________
Serial # - Hydro Trans (L) _______________________
Serial # - Hydro Trans (R) _______________________
Mower and engine life are
extended greatly by performing
frequent lubrications, oil changes
and regular maintenance. To
protect your investment perform
routine maintenance.
FINISH MOWER by
Need Help?
Parts, Service
and Technical Assistance call:
1-919-550-3221
www.beastpowerequipment.com

Rev: Mar2011 Z-BEAST Finish Mower
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Copyright© 2010 by GXi Outdoor Power, LLC. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication can be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission of GXi Outdoor Power, LLC
Clayton, NC 27520 USA.
DEK is a registered trademark of GXi Outdoor Power, LLC
GXi Outdoor Power, LLC reserves the right to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice
and without incurring any obligation whatsoever.
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing.
This manual contains important safety instructions for Finish Mowers
READ SAFETY WARNINGS AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the finish mower and should
remain with the finish mower if resold.

Check out our other great products at www.HomeDepot.com
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Turf Beast
36-inch & 54-inch Walk
Behind Mower
BEAST SERIES
Brush Master
Chipper/Shredder
with 2-Way Feed
100-inch Tow Behind Mower
The Beast
36-inch Brush Mower
Brush Beast
36-inch & 45-inch Snow
Blower
Snow Beast
54-inch & 62-inch Zero-Turn
Mower
Z-Beast

Rev: Mar2011 Z-BEAST Finish Mower
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Contents
Safety Information and Warnings......................................................................... 1
Preparation Safety Precautions ............................................................................2
Operation Safety Precautions .............................................................................3,4
Safety Decals........................................................................................................... 5
Product Specifications ...........................................................................................6
Control Panel and Lawn Mower Components .................................................... 7
Missing Parts Request Form...................................................................................8
Operating Instructions
Starting the Engine........................................................................................... 9
Operating the Mower .....................................................................................10
Changing the Height of Cut............................................................................11
Mowing.............................................................................................................11
Disengaging Hydrostatic Drive Units...........................................................12
Return to Neutral............................................................................................ 12
General Maintenance.................................................................................... 13
Maintenance Schedule ........................................................................................ 14
Service Adjustments
Engine-to-Blade Belt Adjustment.................................................................15
Spindle Break Inspection and Replacement ..............................................16
Removing the Blades......................................................................................16
Engine-to-Hydrostatic Drives Belt Adjustment ..........................................17
Hydro System Adjustment .............................................................................17
Safety System Adjustment/Belt Routing......................................................18
Lubrication Points .......................................................................................... 19
Battery...............................................................................................................19
Storage Instructions ..............................................................................................20
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................21,22
Limited Warranty and Service............................................................................. 23
About the Z-BEAST Mower Manual
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Z-BEAST commercial mower. We at GXi Outdoor Power are confident that
this mower will provide excellent performance, outstanding quality, and great durability when operated and maintained
as directed in this manual.
1. This manual contains operating, safety, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting instructions. BEFORE
OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER, CAREFULLY READ THIS MANUAL IN ITS ENTIRITY.
2. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the mower. It must be available to all operators and/or
person(s) servicing the mower. Should the mower be resold, this manual must remain with the mower.
3. All information, illustrations, and specifications contained in this manual were in effect at the time of the
publication. GXi Outdoor Power reserves the right to add, delete or modify specifications and/or designs without
notice.
4. If you ever have questions in regards to the operation, maintenance or safety of your mower, please contact the
GXi Parts & Service, LLC at 1-919-550-3221.

1
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Safety Information
Z-BEAST lawn mowers are designed to give safe
and dependable service if operated according to
instructions. Read and understand this owner’s
manual before operating your lawn mower.
Emission Control System Information
The U.S. and California Clean Air Acts
EPA and California regulations require all
manufacturers to furnish written instructions
describing the operation and maintenance of
emission control systems. The following instructions
and procedures must be followed in order to keep
the emissions from your engine within the emission
standards.
Safety Label Locations
Safety labels are located on your mower to warn
you of potential hazards. Read them carefully. If a
label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact
your GXi Parts and Service, LLC for a replacement.
Operator Responsibility
It is the owner’s responsibility that all operators and
mechanics must be trained and read this manual
before operating the mower as well as being
physically able individuals. They should be
instructed about safe operating and mechanical
procedures. If they can not read or understand
English, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain all
safety operating instructions. The owner or
operator is responsible for accidents or injuries
occurring to themselves, other people or property.
Potential misfortunate incidents can be prevented
by the owner/user.
Safety Information and Warnings
Mower Inspection
For your safety, inspect the lawn mower before each
use. Before you begin your inspection, be sure the
following conditions are met: the lawn mower should
be on a level surface, with the ignition switch off, the
key removed, the break set, and the blades disengaged.
Also, disconnect the spark plug wires from the spark
plugs and ground them against the engine to prevent
inadvertent starting.
WARNING
WARNING! Do not use your BEAST lawn mower to
carry passengers. Keep bystanders, helpers, pets and
children at a safe distance from the machine while it is
in operation. Inspect the area where the equipment is
to be used and remove all objects such as rocks, toys,
and wires which can be thrown by the machine causing
serious injury or death.
1. Walk around the mower and look for any fluid
spills or leaks on or underneath the mower.
Remove any and all excessive debris, dirt, and
fluids.
Wear appropriate clothing including hard hat, safety
glasses and hearing protection. Long hair, loose
clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving parts.
WARNING
2. Look for signs of damage or excessive wear.
Check the tightness of all nuts, bolts, pins, and
screws. Tighten any that may be loose and
replace any that are missing.
3. Be sure the safety interlock controls are
operating properly so that the engine cannot be
started unless the ground speed control lever is
in neutral and the blades are disengaged.
4. Check the mower blades for any damage or
abnormal wear. If replacement is required,
replace in sets so that they are balanced.
5. Check the tire pressure on all four tires. Do not
exceed the recommended maximum indicated
on the tire.
6. Check the belts for wear and correct tension.
See page 15 for instructions.
7. Check engine oil and air filters as recommended
in the engine manufacturer’s manual.
Children
1. Never allow children to operate or ride on mowers.
2. Always keep children at a safe distance when
operating or servicing a mower
3. Make sure to always look out for children before
you make turns or reverse.
4. Never let children or untrained people operate or
service the equipment. Local regulations may
restrict the age of the operator

2
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Preparation Safety Precautions
Preparation—Safety Precautions
1. Evaluate the terrain to determine what
accessories and attachments are needed to
properly and safely perform the job. Only use
accessories and attachments approved by
BEAST.
2. Inspect the area where the equipment is to be
used and remove all objects such as rocks,
toys, and wire which can be thrown by the
machine causing serious injury or death.
3. People, pets, and most importantly children
must not be near the area being mowed. Do
not operate the mower in their presence.
4. Never operate mower with damaged guards,
shields or covers.
5. All users of the mower must be alert and pay
attention to safety alerts, symbols, and safety
signs.
6. Be sure to inspect mower before each use.
7. Always use roll bar when possible and never
remove or modify the roll bar in any way or
form.
8. Check the controls and shields to make sure
that they are functioning properly before
operating. Do not operate if any are damaged
or missing.
9. Never operate with discharge deflector raised,
removed or altered, unless a grass catcher is
being used.
10. Install, and maintain in working order, a spark
arrester before using equipment on forest-
covered, grass-covered, or brush-covered
unimproved land.
DANGER: GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND
EXPLOSIVE. Do not add fuel while the engine is
running or is hot. Keep open flames, sparks, and heat
away from the fuel and store fuel in containers
specifically designed for that purpose. ADD FUEL
OUTDOORS ONLY. IF THE FUEL IS SPILLED, DO NOT
START THE ENGINE. Manually push the mower away
from the spill and wipe up immediately.
DANGER
Gasoline and other fuels—Safety Precautions
Use extra care when handling gasoline and other
fuels as they are flammable and vapors can explode.
1. Only use gasoline approved containers for storage
and keep out of reach from children.
2. Do not fill fuel tank completely full. Overfilling may
result in fuel leakage. Leave a reasonable amount
of space for fuel to expand.
3. If fuel is spilled, do not start the engine. Move the
mower away from the area, wipe up the spill
thoroughly and wait until fuel vapors have
evaporated before starting engine.
4. Do not fill gasoline containers inside a vehicle or on
a truck/trailer bed.
5. Never remove gas cap or add fuel when engine is
running.
6. Avoid prolonged breathing of gasoline vapors.
7. Never refuel or drain the machine indoors.
8. Keep face away from nozzle and gas tank opening.
9. Keep gas and other fuels away from skin and eyes.
10. Never use the mouth to siphon gas.
11. Never refuel the mower until all moving parts on the
mower have stopped.
12. Never smoke when handling fuels and stay away
from an open flame where fumes can be ignited by
a spark.
13. Always place gasoline containers on the ground
away from your vehicles prior to filling.
14. Gasoline is harmful or fatal if swallowed.

3
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Operation Safety Precautions
Equipment Operation—Safety Precautions
1. Do not operate the engine in a confined space
where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can
collect. Carbon monoxide is odorless,
tasteless, and can be fatal.
2. Mow only in daylight or under good lighting
conditions.
3. Make sure the mower is in neutral, parking
brake is engaged, blades are disengaged, seat
belt on, roll bar is raised and the operator is
sitting in the proper position before attempting
to start the engine.
4. Never operate on wet grass.
5. Watch for pedestrian or vehicular traffic when
moving the mower while not in use (i.e.,
loading, unloading or transporting).
6. Never operate the mower with defective
guards or shields, or without the safety devices
securely mounted in place and functioning
properly.
7. Be aware of discharge and never direct
discharge of material toward bystanders nor
allow anyone, especially children, near the
mower during operation.
8. Do not change the governor settings or over
speed the engine.
9. Always stop the engine when you leave the
mower, even for a moment.
10. To help reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
and the area around the engine free of grass,
leaves or any other type of foreign material.
11. Beware of cutting edges. For safety always
wear gloves when performing blade
maintenance activities. Beware on multiple
blade units since the rotation of one blade may
cause the rotation of the other blade.
12. Do not operate the mower with the grass chute
deflector in the raised position. Serious injury
could occur.
13. If lightning is seen or thunder is heard in the
operators vicinity, do not operate machine.
Instead find shelter, as lightning may cause
injury/death.
14. Never raise the mower deck while the blades
are running.
15. Stop on a level ground, disengage drive,
engage parking brake, and shut off engine
before leaving operator’s position for any
reason including clearing grass catcher or
unclogging the chute.
16. Stop the mower immediately and inspect blades
after striking objects or if an abnormal vibration
occurs and discontinue use until repaired.
17. Keep hands and feet away from cutting unit.
This product is capable of amputating hands
and feet and throwing objects.
18. Be alert and slow down when making turns.
Also look left, right, and behind before changing
directions and reversing to be sure there is a
clear path.
19. Disengage blades, slow down, and drive
cautiously when crossing roads and side walks.
20. Never operate mower under the influence of
alcohol and drugs.
21. Use care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
22. Use care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obstruct vision.
23. Always disengage blades when not in use.
24. Never listen to music with headphones/
earphones while operating the mower.

4
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Before attempting to use your mower, make
sure you are familiar with all of the
components and have read the manual. Need Help?
Parts, Service
and Technical Assistance call:
1-919-550-3221
www.beastpowerequipment.com
DANGER: Do not bypass, modify, alter or
disconnect the safety system. Make sure that
the safety interlock system is fully operational
each time before mowing.
Before setting up your Z-BEAST mower,
disconnect the spark plug wires from the
spark plugs and ground them against the
engine to prevent inadvertent starting. This
step should be taken as a precaution
whenever you are working on this machine.
Slope Operation—Safety Precautions
1. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
2. Be extremely careful when operating the
mower on a slope. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.
3. Do not stop or start suddenly when going
uphill.
4. Slow down and use caution when making turns
and when changing direction on slopes.
5. Do not operate a riding mower near steep
slopes, ditches, or water. Use a walk behind
mower or a hand trimmer for these areas.
6. Roll bar should be raised and locked with seat
belt bucked even before engine is turned on.
7. Should it be necessary to lower the roll bar,
seat belt should not be used.
8. If tires loose traction, disengage the blades and
drive slowly and cautiously off the slope.
9. Use extreme care with attachments as they can
change the stability of the mower and cause
loss of control.
10. Slow down and drive extra carefully on
hillsides. Be sure to drive in the recommended
direction on hillsides. Turf conditions can
affect the machine’s stability.
11. The parking brake may not hold the mower if
parked on a slope.
Operation Safety Precautions
IMPORTANT! The mower belts are adjusted to
ensure the blades stop turning within seven (7)
seconds of releasing the blade control lever. If you
are making any belt adjustments whatsoever, for
your safety and the safety of others around you, you
must ensure the belts are re-adjusted to achieve
this design specification.
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND
EXPLOSIVE. FUEL LEAKS, A LOOSE FUEL TANK,
OR A LOOSE FUEL VALVE CAN LEAD TO SEVERE
INJURY OR DEATH. DO NOT OPERATE THIS
MOWER IF ANY COMPONENT OF THE FUEL
SYSTEM IS LOOSE OR LEAKS GASOLINE!

5
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Safety Decals
Safety Decal Identification
The labels shown below are located on your mower to warn you of potential hazards and provide you with important
safety information. If these decals become difficult to read or are missing from the mower, please contact GXi Parts &
Service, LLC at 1-919-550-3221 or www.beastpowerequipment.com for a replacement.

6
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Product Specifications
Models
Feature 62Z
Product Type Residential, 0-turn
Cutting Width 48-inch
Engine See engine manufacturer’s manual
Engine Start Electric
Transmission Type Dual hydrostatic
Transmission Mfg Peerless
Mower Speeds Infinitely variable
Deck Type Floating, quick change
Cutting Height 1.5– 5 inches( ½-inch increments)
Blade Engagement Manual clutch
Blade Tip Speed 18,750 ft/min
Anti-Scalping Rollers 2 front
No. Blades/ Length 3, 16-inch blades
Control System V-bar E-Z hydro speed control
Fuel/Capacity Gasoline/7.5 gals.
Rear Drive Tires 20-inch X 8-inch turf tread
Front Caster Tires 13-inch X 5-inch smooth tread
Brake System Internal hydraulic and mechanical park
Weight Approx. 812 lbs.
Height/Length 72 inches x 75 inches

7
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Control Panel and Lawn Mower Components
Throughout this manual, instructions are given on the operation of your Z-BEAST mower. We recommend that while
going through this manual, you have your mower available for quick and easy access in order to orient yourself with the
controls, maintenance and orientation of different parts. Please read through the manual before operating.
Control Panel
Below, you will find a diagram of the control panel. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the mower controls.
Lawn Mower Component Identification
(Some components may appear different than shown, depending on the model.)
Handle Bar (Steering)
Seat Adjustor
Blade Height Lever
Control Panel
Pulley guard
Side discharge chute
Roll Bar and Adjuster
Blade Control Lever
Handle bar height adjustment
Hour Meter
Throttle
Key Switch
Choke
Parking
Brake
Lights
Hour meter

8
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Missing Parts Request Form
Name
Phone
Email
Address
IMPORTANT: Please include your receipt. Without a receipt, your
order will be delayed. You may also email us at:
[e-mail]
Fax: [phone]
If emailing, please scan in your proof of purchase.
Comments:
Please indicate the part that you are missing:
Hardware bag
Model #:
Other
Serial #:
Date of purchase

9
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Operating Instructions
Starting the Engine
DANGER: Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide, a
colorless and odorless gas. Breathing exhaust can cause loss
of consciousness and may lead to death. Do not operate the
engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon
monoxide fumes can collect.
NOTE: Be sure to add fresh unleaded gasoline and fill the engine
to the proper level with manufacturers recommended motor oil
before starting your mower.
1. Make sure the shut off valve, located at the bottom of the
tank, is in the ON position.
2. Make sure the brake is set and the 2 control handles are
spread open into their neutral position.
3. Make sure the blade control lever is in the OFF position.
4. Pull CHOKE and set the throttle to its mid-point.
5. Turn the key clockwise to the START position and allow it to
return to the ON position when the engine starts.
6. When the engine starts to run and the key returns to the ON
position, push CHOKE off.
Before attempting to use your mower, make sure you are
familiar with all of the components and have read the manual.
DANGER

10
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Operating Instructions
Operating the Mower
1. Make sure the brake has been moved to the OFF
Position.
2. Pull both control handles to the center.
3. To drive the mower forward, push both handle bars
forward away from the chest. The forward speed is
directly proportional to the degree these handles
are moved forward.
4. To turn the mower left, push to the right handle in
front of the left handle or the left handle more
towards the neutral position than the right handle.
5. To turn the mower right, perform the handle
movements described in step 4 above with except
with the opposite handle position.
6. To stop the forward motion of the mower, move
both the handles to the center/neutral position.
7. To drive the mower backwards, pull both handle
bars backwards toward the chest.
8. To turn backwards to the right or left, repeat the
steps in 4 or 5 above except in the opposite
direction.
9. To zero degree turn to the right, push the left handle
forwards and the right handle backwards.
10. To zero degree turn to the left, push the right handle
forwards and the left handle backwards.
11. When in the neutral position, the hydraulic system
prevents the mower from moving easily. However,
on a grade, the mower can move very slowly (with
the engine off or running). Be sure to set the
manual parking brake any time the mower is left
unattended or is being transported.
12. When the handles are in the middle position they
can be pushed away from each other to lock the
mower in the neutral .

11
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Operating Instructions
Changing the Height of Cut
Your mower is equipped with an easily
adjustable floating deck, which can be
adjusted for cut heights of 1½ inches to 5
inches in ½-inch increments. The deck
height adjuster is located on the right side of
the mower.
How to Change the Cut Height
1. Extend the blade control lever by pulling
it up.
2. Pull the lever out to the left to shift the
deck up or down to the desired height.
3. When desired height is chosen lock the
deck by pushing the handle back into
the lock position.
4. After deck height is changed the lever
should be pushed back down to its
original position.
Note: After mowing, remember to pull the
deck to its highest position to avoid scraping
and any other kind of damage to the blades
or deck.
IMPORTANT! The mower belts are adjusted to ensure the blades stop turning within seven (7) seconds of releasing
the blade control lever. If you are making any belt adjustments whatsoever, for your safety and the safety of others
around you, you must ensure the belts are re-adjusted to achieve this design specification.
Mowing
WARNING! Thoroughly inspect the area
where you plan to use the mower. Look for
items such as stones, sticks , wire, and
other foreign objects. If struck by the
mower, these and other objects may
become projectiles that could lead to
serious injury or death. Clear area of all
debris.
Keep people and pets at a safe distance.
WARNING! Do not operate the mower
with defective guards, shields, or without
the safety devices securely in place.
1. When the mower is in position on the
area to be mowed, move the throttle
to its full speed.
2. SLOWLY push the blade control lever
forward to the ON position.
3. Begin mowing as described on the
previous page, always using safe/
comfortable speeds.
4. To stop the blades, pull the blade
control lever back to the OFF position.
The Soft Start feature is critical to
maintaining belt, clutch, and engine life.
NEVER “slam” the blade on/off handle
from off to on without pausing an
adequate time in the soft start range.
WARNING
WARNING

12
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Operating Instructions
Return to Neutral
DANGER! Make certain the engine comes to a
complete stop before putting you hands in the
access panel.
If the mower creeps or will not stop as desired when
the handles are in neutral position, adjustments are
necessary.
CAUTION: Be sure the engine is OFF before you
open the hydro access panel.
1. Remove the bolts to access
hydro panel.
2. Using an 8 mm wrench, reach
through the bottom of the
hydro panel to the return-to-
neutral set pin bolts. Loosen
bolts on the side that needs adjusting.
3. Be sure the brake is in the OFF position. In a safe
operator position, start the engine.
4. With the engine running, slowly move the handle
on the side needing adjustment until that side
comes to a complete stop. If the mower creeps
forward, pull handle in reverse, If
the mower creeps backward, pull
the handle forward.
5. When the mower stops moving
completely the hydro is in the
neutral position.
6. Turn off the engine.
7. Slowly tighten the bolts without moving the plate.
8. With the bolts tightened, move to a safe operator
position and start the engine.
9. If the creep has returned, repeat the process.
Multiple iterations may be required.
10. Reinstall hydro access panel.
Disengaging Hydrostatic Drive Units
Before physically moving the mower when the engine is
NOT running, the hydrostatic drive units need to be
disengaged into free-wheel mode.
To disengage these hydro units:
1. Unscrew both of the bolts that keep in the hydro
system.
2. If necessary bump the bottom part of the mower with
a tool lightly where the hydro systems are located to
ensure the system is disengaged
CAUTION! Never bump, hit or push the actual hydros.
To return to operation mode:
1. Place the bolts back in place on the back of the
mower.
2. Screw them back to how they were originally.
DANGER

13
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
General Maintenance
The Importance of Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your
mower continues to deliver safe and high-quality
performance.
To help you properly care for your mower, the following
pages include a recommended maintenance schedule,
routine inspection procedures, and simple
maintenance procedures using basic hand tools.
Maintenance is the responsibility of the owner and
must be performed regularly. More difficult service
tasks or tasks that require special tools are best
handled by a recommended service technician or other
qualified mechanic.
The maintenance schedule described on page 14
applies to mowers used under normal operating
conditions. If you operate your mower under severe
conditions, such as sustained prolonged use or high-
temperature operations, or use it in unusually wet,
dusty or rocky conditions, consult your servicing dealer
for recommendations applicable to your individual
needs and use.
Be sure to use genuine Z- BEAST mower replacement
parts when servicing your mower to assure the best
quality, safety and performance.
Need Help? Parts, Service and Technical Assistance
Call: 1-919-550-3221 www.beastpowerequipment.com
CAUTION
CAUTION! Before making any adjustments and/or servicing to
your Z-BEAST mower, make sure the mower is on a level
surface, with the ignition switch off, the key removed, the brake
set, and the blades disengaged. Also, disconnect the spark plug
wires from the spark plugs and ground them against the engine
to prevent inadvertent starting.
If you are performing adjustments or maintenance after
operating the mower, allow the unit to cool and always wear
protective clothing.
Tire Pressure
Incorrect tire pressure may cause the mower to pull to one side
and/or result in uneven cut. Use caution when filling the tires.
NEVER exceed the recommended maximum tire pressure as
stated on the tires.
Air Filter
Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for the recommended
maintenance.
Engine Oil
CHECK ENGINE OIL BEFORE EACH USE. Refer to the Engine
Owner’s Manual for the type of oil to use, oil change intervals,
and the proper procedures to check and change oil.
Fuel
DANGER: Gasoline is highly flammable and
explosive. Do not add fuel while the engine is
running or is hot. Keep open flames, sparks, and
heat away from the fuel and store fuel in containers
specifically designed for that purpose. Add fuel
outdoors only and if the fuel is spilled, do not start
the engine. Manually push the mower away from the
spill and wipe up immediately.
Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for the type of fuel
to use.
A fuel shut off valve is located on the bottom of the fuel
tank. It is recommended that the fuel be shut off when
transporting between job sites and when storing the
mower for extended periods of time.
DANGER
CAUTION: Always wear work gloves when performing
blade maintenance and beware of the cutting edges.
Be sure the engine is off, the key removed, and the
spark plug wires are disconnected from the spark
plugs to prevent inadvertent starting.
CAUTION
Blades
Inspect blades on a daily basis for nicks, bends, and excessive
wear. If the blades are worn, cracked, bent, or damaged,
replace them before using the mower. Choose genuine Z-
BEAST mower replacement blades to ensure quality and
performance. (See page 16 for blade removal instructions.)
When sharpening the blades, sharpen only the cutting edges
and try to maintain the original angle of the blade. Do not make
the cutting edge razor sharp. Remove the same amount from
each side of the blade so that balance in maintained.

14
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Item Procedure
Time Interval
Break-in
(first 5 hrs)
Every 8 hrs
(daily)
Every 40 hrs
(weekly)
Every 100 hrs
(Bi-weekly)
Every 200 hrs
(monthly)
Belts Inspect (adjust if
needed) X X
Blades Inspect and/or
Sharpen X
Engine Air Filter Inspect (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Engine Cooling Areas Clean (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Engine Oil
Check (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Change (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Engine Oil Filter Change (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Engine Spark Plug Inspect (see Engine
Owner’s Manual)
Fuel Filter Replace X
Fuel Line Check X
Grease Fittings Refer to page 19
Hardware Check for proper
tightness X X
Mower Main Frame Remove debris from
under belt cover X
Safety Interlock System Check Operations
and Switches X
Tires Check Air Pressure
X
Spindle/Blade Brakes X
Cleaning the Mower
It is recommended that the Z-BEAST lawn mower be cleaned on a daily basis. Excessive accumulation of dirt,
debris, oil, etc. on cutting units, drives, mufflers, and engine may present a potential safety hazard.
Maintenance Schedule

15
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Service Adjustments
DANGER: Before making any adjustments or servicing
your mower, make sure the mower is on level ground,
the blades are disengaged, the brake set, the key is
removed, the engine is off and the spark plug wires are
disconnected from the spark plugs to prevent
inadvertent starting. If maintenance or adjustments are
being performed after operation of the mower, allow
the unit to cool since heat build up could cause severe
burns.
Engine-to-Blade Belt Adjustment
1. Raise the deck cover and move the blade control
lever on the control console to the ON position.
2. With approximately 10 pounds of pressure, push
the clutch pulley to tighten the belt. The linkage
should stop approximately 1 inch before contacting
the stop bolt. If the belt moves within 0.5-inch of the
stop bolt, adjustment is necessary. Move the blade
control lever back to the OFF position.
DANGER
Apply 10 pounds
Stop Bolt
Turnbuckle Locking nut
3. Loosen locking nut.
4. Rotate turnbuckle until desired tension is achieved
(approximately 1 inch from stop bolt).
5. Tighten locking nut when finished.
6. Close deck cover.
IMPORTANT! The mower belts are adjusted to ensure
the blades stop turning within 7 seconds of releasing
the blade control lever. If you are making any belt
adjustments whatsoever, for your safety and the
safety of others around you, you must ensure the belts
are re-adjusted to achieve this design specification.
Oil Filter
Fuel Filter
Air Filter
Battery
Oil Dipstick
Fuel Fill Location

16
48ZB
Z-BEAST
Z-BEAST Finish Mower
Rev: March 2011
Spindle Brake Inspection and Replacement
Blade and pulley brake inspections should be
performed every 50 blade on and off cycles.
Before beginning service, park the Z-BEAST on a level
surface, turn the blades off, turn the engine off, set the
brake, take the key out of the switch, wait an adequate
time to make certain no blades are turning, and remove
spark plug wires from spark plugs.
1. Engage the blade handle (make certain the engine
cannot start) to pull the brakes off of the pulleys.
2. Remove the pulley guard from the deck.
3. Visually inspect the brake pads for wear. Make
certain that no metal is touching the pulleys.
4. The brake pad material should be approximately 1/8-
inch thick. Replace the brakes if the material is less
than 1/16-inch thick.
Note: Replacing both brakes is recommended if
replacement of one brake is required.
5. To replace the brake, use a pair of pliers to remove
the springs.
6. Remove the two mounting bolts and
disconnect the spring from the cable.
7. Discard all of these parts. DO NOT reuse springs.
New brakes are equipped with new springs for
proper braking.
8. Install the new brakes by reversing the procedure in
steps 5 and 6.
IMPORTANT! The mower belts are adjusted to ensure
the blades stop turning within seven (7) seconds of
releasing the blade control lever. If you are making any
belt adjustments whatsoever, for your safety and the
safety of others around you, you must ensure the belts
are re-adjusted to achieve this design specification.
Service Adjustments
9. Disengage the blade handle and inspect the brake
contact surface. All of the brake pad contacting material
should be contacting the bottom of the pulley.
Note: Springs may vary from those pictured based on the
particular application.
Removing the Blades
Required tools: Two (2) 15/16” box end wrenches
1. Park the mower on level ground, set the brake and block
the rear wheels to prevent accidental rollback.
2. Raise the front end of the mower and place on a jack
stand.
3. Use one wrench to loosen nut A while holding bolt B
with the other wrench. (See adjacent photo.)
4. Slide the blade bolt down through the mower deck and
out.
5. To reinstall, insert the blade bolt through the cutting
deck.
6. Install the blade spacers that were removed, back onto
the blade bolt followed by the nut and tighten. (See
figure below.)
IMPORTANT: The number of spacers should always be
the same on each blade bolt. NEVER put the spacers
below the blade and NEVER straighten or weld the
blades.
CAUTION! Beware of the cutting edges on the blades.
The rotation of one blade may cause the other blade(s) to
rotate. Always wear work gloves when handling blades.
CAUTION
A
B
IMPORTANT! The mower belts are adjusted to ensure the blades stop
turning within 7 seconds of releasing the blade control lever. If you are
making any belt adjustments whatsoever, for your safety and the safety
of others around you, you must ensure the belts are re-adjusted to
achieve this design specification.