REV C 3-8 605596CE
Deck Clutch Operation
Before beginning operation, check to make sure the deck
clutch switch is engaging and disengaging the blades properly.
To check the deck clutch switch:
1. Start the engine and engage the deck clutch.
2. With the deck clutch switch up (clutch engaged) and
the engine running, listen to confirm that the mower
blades are rotating.
3. Now, push the deck clutch switch down (clutch disen-
gaged), and with the engine running, listen to confirm
that the blades have stopped rotating.
4. If the mower blades continue to rotate with the deck
clutch switch down, discontinue operation immedi-
ately and contact your Hustler
®
Dealer.
Follow these procedures to maximize clutch life.
1. Engage the clutch only when the throttle is set at
approximately 2/3 throttle and there is no load on the
blades. After clutch engagement, advance the engine
throttle to full rpm.
Engaging the deck clutch at high engine rpm or when
under heavy load (in tall grass, for example) can cause
belts and/or electric clutch to slip, resulting in premature
wear or possible damage.
2. Disengage the clutch only when the throttle is set at
less than 1/2 throttle.
Never disengage the clutch with the engine running at
high rpm. Setting the throttle to less than 1/2 throttle
when disengaging the clutch will help extend clutch life.
Warranty will not be allowed for deck clutches that fail due
to improper engagement and disengagement practices.
Deck Cutting Height Adjustment
Deck cutting height is adjustable in 6.4 mm increments.
To adjust the cutting height, step on the deck lift pedal and
latch the transport lever in the deck transport position. Pull
the adjusting pin out of the hole that it is in and insert it into
Discharge chute may vary from this illustration
A. Discharge chute
Figure 3-10
Rear Discharge Decks – Never direct the discharge
of material from the mower deck toward bystand-
ers. Do not operate the mower without the power
unit deflector in place. Figure 3-11
Rear discharge deck shown
A. Discharge area
Figure 3-11
Never attempt to make any adjustments to the
mower deck while the engine is running or with the
deck drive clutch engaged. Mower blades cannot
be seen and are located very close to the deck
housing. Fingers and toes can be cut off instantly.
Make sure that the area around and under the deck
is clear and that there are no bystanders in the
immediate area before proceeding.