605596 4-7 REV K
plugs some of the holes in the media and actually acts as
part of the filter media. When the next round of dirt enters,
the first dirt helps filter out even smaller particles making the
filter more efficient at stopping dirt from entering the engine.
This is referred to as barrier filtration.
Of course, at some point the filter media becomes too
clogged to allow air to pass.
The mowing conditions will determine the frequency of air
filter element changing.
General Engine Maintenance
Detailed instructions and recommendations for break-in
and regular maintenance are specified in the Engine Owner’s
Manual. Please refer to this manual for engine servicing,
lubricating oil levels with quality and viscosity
recommendations, bolt torques, etc. The engine warranty is
backed by the engine manufacturer. Special attention should
be paid to applicable data which will not be duplicated here.
Belts
Inspect belts frequently for wear and serviceability.
Replace a belt that shows signs of:
• severe cuts
• tears
• separation
• weather checking
• cracking
• burns caused by slipping.
Slight raveling of belt covering does not indicate failure,
trim ravelings with a sharp knife.
Inspect the belt pulley grooves and flanges for wear. A new
belt, or one in good condition, should never run against the
bottom of the groove. Replace the pulley when this is the
case, otherwise the belt will lose power and slip excessively.
Never pry a belt to get it on a pulley as this will cut or
damage the fibers of the belt covering.
Keep oil and grease away from belts, and never use belt
dressings. Any of these will destroy the belt composition in a
very short time.
Mower Blades
Mower Blade Maintenance
IMPORTANT: Refer to the Safety section of this manual for
blade handling safety information.
Refer to the Mower Blade Replacement section for blade
removal and installation.
Check the mower blades daily, they are the key to power
efficiency and well groomed turf. Keep the blades sharp. A
dull blade will tear rather than cut the grass, leaving a brown
ragged top on the grass within a few hours. A dull blade also
requires more power from the engine.
Replace any blade which is bent, cracked or broken.
Sharpen the blades following the pattern shown. Touch-up
sharpening can be done with a file.
Figure 4-14
After grinding the blades, check for balance. Blade
balancing can be done by placing the blade on an inverted
line punch or 5/8" bolt. A commercial balancing tool is also
available through most hardware supply stores.
The blade should not lean or tilt. When spinning the blade
slowly it should not wobble. Balance the blade before
reinstalling.
If the pump belt fails, loss of control will occur
especially when operating on a slope. If you lose
steering control while operating the machine, place
the steering control levers in the park brake position
immediately. Inspect the machine and involve your
Hustler
®
Dealer to resolve the problem before
continuing to operate.
WARNING
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves and use extra caution
when servicing them.
Always check for blade damage:
• if mower strikes a rock, branch or other
foreign object during mowing!
• or if an abnormal vibration occurs while
operating.
Make all necessary repairs before resuming
operation.
WARNINGWARNING