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Welcome to the Hustler Forum -- Check in Here First!
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#13
Old Goat
Old Goat
#15
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#19
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#20
therev
therev
#21
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#24
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#27
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#31
T
The_Beast
Kenny, I have the Kohler Command Twin. I'll ask questions outside of this thread. Just wanted to know if there were folks that could possible answer them.
Thanks, Geoff
T
The_Beast
Kenny, I have the Kohler Command Twin. I'll ask questions outside of this thread. Just wanted to know if there were folks that could possible answer them.
Thanks, Geoff
#33
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#37
CARISERVICESTAR
CARISERVICESTAR
Attachments
#38
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#39
PVHIII
PVHIII
#42
PVHIII
PVHIII
#43
PVHIII
PVHIII
#44
PVHIII
PVHIII
#45
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#47
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#53
C
Carmineb48
C
Carmineb48
Hello:
Have a Hustler Super Z 52", ExMark 46" a Toro 22" an old Bobcat 36" walk behind I use as my bush hog, cuts through anything, Stihl FS 80 and FS weed eaters, KD multi tool, and edger and 2 blowers. Do about 65 lawns a month in busy season, and 41 yearly contracted.
Hoping to grow this summer as I finally have a relaible employee that isn't my age, 48, and doesn't mind working/walking all day!!
Been in business since 2005 as a friend hired me on, and decided to start my own in 2007. Never going to get rich financially doing this but have built some strong relationships with a lot of my customers I wouldn't trade for anything as well as had the oportunity to watch just about all of my 2 kids events the last 7 years!
Have a Hustler Super Z 52", ExMark 46" a Toro 22" an old Bobcat 36" walk behind I use as my bush hog, cuts through anything, Stihl FS 80 and FS weed eaters, KD multi tool, and edger and 2 blowers. Do about 65 lawns a month in busy season, and 41 yearly contracted.
Hoping to grow this summer as I finally have a relaible employee that isn't my age, 48, and doesn't mind working/walking all day!!
Been in business since 2005 as a friend hired me on, and decided to start my own in 2007. Never going to get rich financially doing this but have built some strong relationships with a lot of my customers I wouldn't trade for anything as well as had the oportunity to watch just about all of my 2 kids events the last 7 years!
#54
lawn mower fanatic
Welcome to the forum! :smile:
lawn mower fanatic
Hello:
Have a Hustler Super Z 52", ExMark 46" a Toro 22" an old Bobcat 36" walk behind I use as my bush hog, cuts through anything, Stihl FS 80 and FS weed eaters, KD multi tool, and edger and 2 blowers. Do about 65 lawns a month in busy season, and 41 yearly contracted.
Hoping to grow this summer as I finally have a relaible employee that isn't my age, 48, and doesn't mind working/walking all day!!
Been in business since 2005 as a friend hired me on, and decided to start my own in 2007. Never going to get rich financially doing this but have built some strong relationships with a lot of my customers I wouldn't trade for anything as well as had the oportunity to watch just about all of my 2 kids events the last 7 years!
Welcome to the forum! :smile:
#63
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
#65
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
#69
RaptorSD60
RaptorSD60
#72
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
Great pics! Where I live here in Indiana women are the #1 mowers,they seem to enjoy it!?
#73
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#76
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
Don,could your be a little more specific about your concerns!?
#79
Nickwilkins
Nickwilkins
Attachments
#80
K
kadowson
K
kadowson
Got my 52" Raptor yesterday. I would have posted pics then but had to give it a once-over and mow the lawn which had 2 weeks growth. It cut super nice, quiet, and never plugged up once. Loving the first stage of our relationship.
It cut super nice, quiet, and never plugged up once. Loving the first stage of our relationship.Attachments
#81
RetiredGuns
Very nice. I was pleasantly surprised that after 4 mowings I had almost zero buildup of grass. My old Cub was clogged every mowing.
RetiredGuns
Got my 52" Raptor yesterday. I would have posted pics then but had to give it a once-over and mow the lawn which had 2 weeks growth.
Very nice. I was pleasantly surprised that after 4 mowings I had almost zero buildup of grass. My old Cub was clogged every mowing.
#82
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
#84
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#87
D
Ddog823
D
Ddog823
Just got the machine delivered last night!! The only problem is that the engine guard is going to be delayed by a week or so, something with a problem at the factory?! Here are some picks:
The Old Girl, JD 316, in the background.
The Old Girl, JD 316, in the background.
#90
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#91
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#92
djdicetn
djdicetn
#93
MCX09
MCX09
#94
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#96
RetiredGuns
RetiredGuns
#99
S
Sonders
S
Sonders
Hey everybody. Recently bought a nice used 10' Hustler Z4 60" deck with 27 hp Kaw. It runs and rides super nice. My only complaint is it doesn't have as good of a cut as my old Turf Tiger did.
#100
S
Shughes717
Good looking mower. I'm a big fan of hustler. If you don't mind telling us, what did you get it for?
S
Shughes717
Hey everybody. Recently bought a nice used 10' Hustler Z4 60" deck with 27 hp Kaw. It runs and rides super nice. My only complaint is it doesn't have as good of a cut as my old Turf Tiger did.
Good looking mower. I'm a big fan of hustler. If you don't mind telling us, what did you get it for?
#104
chemingthroughtheleather
chemingthroughtheleather
#112
Tomster
Tomster
#116
Hank W
Hank W
#118
West
West
#124
Hustler Ed
Hustler Ed
#126
H
Hustlahh
H
Hustlahh
New Hustler Raptor SD 60" checking in. My property is 5.6 acres total with a 1/3 or 1/2 of that being a pasture. After visiting a dealer I ended up buying from Lowes to get 10% off and 18mo special (0%) financing. I hope I never need to use the factory warranty and if I do I hope I don't have issues at the dealer. I expect to pick it up at the end of this month and I refuse to mow until then. I'll update later with a picture. I already bought the mulching kit for it and while at the dealer I picked up a set of blades, oil, and filter. I'm holding off on the flex forks until I log some hours.
I'll update later with a picture. I already bought the mulching kit for it and while at the dealer I picked up a set of blades, oil, and filter. I'm holding off on the flex forks until I log some hours.
#127
J
JohnCardin
You may not want to hit the really tall stuff with the mulching kit right out of the box. That's gonna be ALOT of grass that you're gonna try to chew up in the deck and it may slow you way down.
J
JohnCardin
New Hustler Raptor SD 60" checking in. My property is 5.6 acres total with a 1/3 or 1/2 of that being a pasture. After visiting a dealer I ended up buying from Lowes to get 10% off and 18mo special (0%) financing. I hope I never need to use the factory warranty and if I do I hope I don't have issues at the dealer. I expect to pick it up at the end of this month and I refuse to mow until then.
You may not want to hit the really tall stuff with the mulching kit right out of the box. That's gonna be ALOT of grass that you're gonna try to chew up in the deck and it may slow you way down.
#131
F
FF1984
F
FF1984
Your mulch kit should come with a new set of mulching blades, also.New Hustler Raptor SD 60" checking in. My property is 5.6 acres total with a 1/3 or 1/2 of that being a pasture. After visiting a dealer I ended up buying from Lowes to get 10% off and 18mo special (0%) financing. I hope I never need to use the factory warranty and if I do I hope I don't have issues at the dealer. I expect to pick it up at the end of this month and I refuse to mow until then.
#137
scaredychicken
scaredychicken
Greetings from British Columbia, Canada
Seriously looking at the HUSTLER Raptor zero-turn mower - probably 42 inch deck and the 23 hp Kawasaki FR691 engine configuration has my attention specifically. (possibly the flip-up deck model for easier maintenance = more $$$). This is a potential purchase, but it is not cheap on my budget - and that is why I joined LawnWorld Hustler forum. I need feedback and ideas from people that are more familiar with zero-turns generally.
Local dealer is reputable, honest, and someone that I know as an acquaintance. I know that the product is good and that they will back it up, and be available. The option is a Husqvarna model from an equally reputable and qualified dealer.
I have zero experience with this type of mower, and frankly it scares me a bit - intimidating. I do have some specific needs...
My needs are due to a physical disability (cerebral palsy) and subsequently a back injury (car accident 2010), ... balance, ease of use, climbing on/off, comfort, no foot controls, good supportive seat, suitable hp. IF someone (dealer or user) has some insight into mobility issues and the use of these mowers, that might also be valuable information for me. the seat was the selling feature for me - highback comfortable seat, lumbar support, and some of the higher models also have armrests,
PROs - automatic, KAWASAKI engine, ease of use, no foot controls, North American build (USA), comfortable seat, potential to modify some aids / grab bars, 23 hp engine seems fine for my purposes, flip-up version is easier for maintenance:smile:.hydrostatic - from what I understand, this is completely hydrostatic trans. they told me no footwork at all - no clutch or foot brakes. (yeah) heavy-duty fabricated steel decks (not the stamped type)
11) lowest seat heights in the industry (says that is good for control & handling, what do I know ?)
CONs - the Hustler is by no means easy (for me) to get on / off, but I need to figure out a way, and adapt to it - some modifications are being considered to give me a hand grip (grab rail) mounted at the front, to assist with balance. I think there is potential here for my needs, and it beats swinging my foot over the steering wheel -engine on the units that I currently have. far pricier (double +) than what a new ride-on would cost, and that is a consideration. I think it is time to move on to improvements though. ROPS are only available on the industrial / commercial models:frown:.
I am wanting to replace a John Deere 160 LT, and a Craftsman LT1000 as both are awkward for me at this point. I really like the Kawasaki engine on the JD though, so a Hustler with Kawasaki was great (and it sounds like a machine, not a toy)
can someone please offer some thoughts on traction, and the casters / front wheels specifically ? how well does this operate on hills, rougher terrain ( or is it simply a "golf course mower" ?
I appreciate your time, thoughts, and insights.
Seriously looking at the HUSTLER Raptor zero-turn mower - probably 42 inch deck and the 23 hp Kawasaki FR691 engine configuration has my attention specifically. (possibly the flip-up deck model for easier maintenance = more $$$). This is a potential purchase, but it is not cheap on my budget - and that is why I joined LawnWorld Hustler forum. I need feedback and ideas from people that are more familiar with zero-turns generally.
Local dealer is reputable, honest, and someone that I know as an acquaintance. I know that the product is good and that they will back it up, and be available. The option is a Husqvarna model from an equally reputable and qualified dealer.
I have zero experience with this type of mower, and frankly it scares me a bit - intimidating. I do have some specific needs...
My needs are due to a physical disability (cerebral palsy) and subsequently a back injury (car accident 2010), ... balance, ease of use, climbing on/off, comfort, no foot controls, good supportive seat, suitable hp. IF someone (dealer or user) has some insight into mobility issues and the use of these mowers, that might also be valuable information for me. the seat was the selling feature for me - highback comfortable seat, lumbar support, and some of the higher models also have armrests,
PROs - automatic, KAWASAKI engine, ease of use, no foot controls, North American build (USA), comfortable seat, potential to modify some aids / grab bars, 23 hp engine seems fine for my purposes, flip-up version is easier for maintenance:smile:.hydrostatic - from what I understand, this is completely hydrostatic trans. they told me no footwork at all - no clutch or foot brakes. (yeah) heavy-duty fabricated steel decks (not the stamped type)
11) lowest seat heights in the industry (says that is good for control & handling, what do I know ?)
CONs - the Hustler is by no means easy (for me) to get on / off, but I need to figure out a way, and adapt to it - some modifications are being considered to give me a hand grip (grab rail) mounted at the front, to assist with balance. I think there is potential here for my needs, and it beats swinging my foot over the steering wheel -engine on the units that I currently have. far pricier (double +) than what a new ride-on would cost, and that is a consideration. I think it is time to move on to improvements though. ROPS are only available on the industrial / commercial models:frown:.
I am wanting to replace a John Deere 160 LT, and a Craftsman LT1000 as both are awkward for me at this point. I really like the Kawasaki engine on the JD though, so a Hustler with Kawasaki was great (and it sounds like a machine, not a toy)
can someone please offer some thoughts on traction, and the casters / front wheels specifically ? how well does this operate on hills, rougher terrain ( or is it simply a "golf course mower" ?
I appreciate your time, thoughts, and insights.
#143
FieldCut48
FieldCut48
#144
KrashnKraka
KrashnKraka
#145
FieldCut48
FieldCut48
#146
Ric
I've read your post on the FR 541 and I'm sorry you had a bad experience with the engine, but that doesn't mean that it's a bad engine. I've run the Kawasaki engines for the last few years and I have over 700 hrs in three years on the FS 541 and 250+ hrs on a FX 651 in less than a year and never had an issue with either. There's nothing wrong with the Kawasaki FR Series engines. If I was buying a Residential mower/ztr that's what I'd want on it.
Ric
Wow... I really need to follow your posts
I've read your post on the FR 541 and I'm sorry you had a bad experience with the engine, but that doesn't mean that it's a bad engine. I've run the Kawasaki engines for the last few years and I have over 700 hrs in three years on the FS 541 and 250+ hrs on a FX 651 in less than a year and never had an issue with either. There's nothing wrong with the Kawasaki FR Series engines. If I was buying a Residential mower/ztr that's what I'd want on it.
#147
KrashnKraka
KrashnKraka
#148
Ric
Ric
#149
KrashnKraka
KrashnKraka
#163
M
mwe333
Hi all.
My name is Mark. I live in Florida on 8 acres. About 5 are mowable. I'm a new owner (1year) of a Hustler Fast Trak Super Duty with a 60" deck that I bought new from a
local dealer.
I would've gone with a bigger deck if I could've afforded it.
I wanted to join the forum to ask questions, find answers, offer help and save money. I belong to A Goldwing
forum and have saved lots of cash by using their suggestions. I'm having an issue now with the mower that I will bring up in another thread.
Best wishes.
M
mwe333
Hi all.
My name is Mark. I live in Florida on 8 acres. About 5 are mowable. I'm a new owner (1year) of a Hustler Fast Trak Super Duty with a 60" deck that I bought new from a
local dealer.
I would've gone with a bigger deck if I could've afforded it.
I wanted to join the forum to ask questions, find answers, offer help and save money. I belong to A Goldwing
forum and have saved lots of cash by using their suggestions. I'm having an issue now with the mower that I will bring up in another thread.
Best wishes.
Attachments
#171
Micah Haarhoff
Micah Haarhoff
#173
B
Bucket8577
B
Bucket8577
Hi all!
I bought a Raptor 52 and have mowed twice with it...once without and once with the mulching kit. I was very pleased both times.
I may be mowing quite a bit more often than necessary for a while
I bought a Raptor 52 and have mowed twice with it...once without and once with the mulching kit. I was very pleased both times.
I may be mowing quite a bit more often than necessary for a while
#175
Ric
Ric
#177
lawn mower fanatic
lawn mower fanatic
#196
C4Tom
C4Tom
#200
5
577jersey
5
577jersey
Hi guys,
Tommy from Jersey.
I just purchased a RSD 54 20 hours ago with an FR engine and love it so far.
I do a few lawns every week with the mower and it seems like a good one so far!!
I am here to learn and share with others,,hope my mower will last a long time!!
Tommy
Tommy from Jersey.
I just purchased a RSD 54 20 hours ago with an FR engine and love it so far.
I do a few lawns every week with the mower and it seems like a good one so far!!
I am here to learn and share with others,,hope my mower will last a long time!!
Tommy
#201
A
afd
A
afd
Re: Welcome to the Hustler Forum -- Check in Here First! afd
Hi guys,
Al from Massachusetts.
I have a Hustler Fastrack. I have had it working successfully for a number of years.
Last year at the end of the season the battery died, so I replaced it with a new battery.
When I tried to start it this year it started, ran for a few minutes and then stopped. It has not run since.
I replace the oil filter, fuel filter and plugs at the end of each year.
Has anyone had any issues with the safety interlocks.
I would be very grateful if someone can shed some light on the problem.
Thank you in advance
Al
Hi guys,
Al from Massachusetts.
I have a Hustler Fastrack. I have had it working successfully for a number of years.
Last year at the end of the season the battery died, so I replaced it with a new battery.
When I tried to start it this year it started, ran for a few minutes and then stopped. It has not run since.
I replace the oil filter, fuel filter and plugs at the end of each year.
Has anyone had any issues with the safety interlocks.
I would be very grateful if someone can shed some light on the problem.
Thank you in advance
Al
#202
5
577jersey
5
577jersey
Re: Welcome to the Hustler Forum -- Check in Here First! afd
You will have to remove the float bowl from the carb and clean out the main jet,if it still does not run right you need to take the carb off and do a complete cleaning of all jet ports by using a small steel G or B string from a guitar with some carb cleaner and compressed air.
While you have the carb off crank the engine with the fuel line in a coffee can and see if you have a good fuel flow/delivery.
Good luck and keep us posted!!
Tom
I bet you have a case of the ethanol fuel blues,Hi guys,
Al from Massachusetts.
I have a Hustler Fastrack. I have had it working successfully for a number of years.
Last year at the end of the season the battery died, so I replaced it with a new battery.
When I tried to start it this year it started, ran for a few minutes and then stopped. It has not run since.
I replace the oil filter, fuel filter and plugs at the end of each year.
Has anyone had any issues with the safety interlocks.
I would be very grateful if someone can shed some light on the problem.
Thank you in advance
Al
You will have to remove the float bowl from the carb and clean out the main jet,if it still does not run right you need to take the carb off and do a complete cleaning of all jet ports by using a small steel G or B string from a guitar with some carb cleaner and compressed air.
While you have the carb off crank the engine with the fuel line in a coffee can and see if you have a good fuel flow/delivery.
Good luck and keep us posted!!
Tom
#209
Datadave
Datadave
Hello everyone
I just bought a Hustler Raptor SD 54" with the 25HP Kohler Pro Performance 7000.
Should be delivered tomorrow morning (I can't wait). I mow 2 acres and about half of it is heavy Pensacola Bahia.
This stuff grows tall, thick & very fast if left unchecked for more than a week and when it rains it gets totally out of control.
I hope this Raptor SD is up to the task. I spend to much time mowing with my John Deere 42" tractor type mower.
The JD has served well for 12 seasons but even though it is still running good I am ready to upgrade to the zero turn and
spend less time mowing and have more me time every weekend
I'm sure I will have a thousand questions in the next year or so but hopefully I will be able to share/help as well.
Thanks for the welcome!
Dave
I just bought a Hustler Raptor SD 54" with the 25HP Kohler Pro Performance 7000.
Should be delivered tomorrow morning (I can't wait). I mow 2 acres and about half of it is heavy Pensacola Bahia.
This stuff grows tall, thick & very fast if left unchecked for more than a week and when it rains it gets totally out of control.
I hope this Raptor SD is up to the task. I spend to much time mowing with my John Deere 42" tractor type mower.
The JD has served well for 12 seasons but even though it is still running good I am ready to upgrade to the zero turn and
spend less time mowing and have more me time every weekend
I'm sure I will have a thousand questions in the next year or so but hopefully I will be able to share/help as well.
Thanks for the welcome!
Dave
#216
Datadave
Datadave
#218
BlazNT
BlazNT
#219
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#220
Datadave
Datadave
#232
T
tcbracing
T
tcbracing
Just picked up 2017 Raptor SDX 54". Opted for torsion bar fronts and wanted the Kawasaki. Have about 2 acres to mow. My first ever Zero Turn.
Looking forward to learning a lot on here. I find that forums are the best place to find information and knowledgeable, friendly people.
Tom
Looking forward to learning a lot on here. I find that forums are the best place to find information and knowledgeable, friendly people.
Tom
#235
BlazNT
BlazNT
#240
mhavanti
mhavanti
#242
BlazNT
BlazNT
#245
mhavanti
mhavanti
#248
mhavanti
mhavanti
#249
BlazNT
BlazNT
#254
mhavanti
mhavanti
#255
Datadave
Datadave
#256
mhavanti
mhavanti
Here is a modification that will help your belts last a lot longer and perhaps keep them from derailing the pulleys due to grass build up inside the belt (pulley) guards. If you remove your guards, you'll be surprised at how much build up there is although you're blowing them out after each mowing.
Mine was lodged in and the mower is kept immaculate.
Mine was lodged in and the mower is kept immaculate.
#258
D
djones7598
D
djones7598
Good evening (morning) however you look at the time stamp all I am a recent new owner of a Hustler SD 54" mower and at this point only have 4.5 hrs under it. I plan to add more this weekend and do my first oil change, as per instructions. I will probably be closer to 6 hrs but I think I will be okay. I have been extremely happy with my new purchase and I am relearning how to mow my lawn from an older 42" tractor style mower, I WILL get better with time. I also want to share a link with everyone that I found here. I am sorry if I am overstepping, but what this gentleman has done has made my mowing much easier and I just wanted to pass this information along to everyone here that may not have seen.
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/showthread.php/36513-Hustler-Rapter-sd-54
This gentleman has taken the time to produce a decal that indicates inch measurements instead of letters for deck height adjustment. It works like a charm and is honestly so much easier to read when mowing. I think this is how these mowers, as great as they are, should come from the factory. Maybe someone will find it useful.
I am happy to be apart of the Hustler family and look forward to many years of a wonderful mowing experience.
I am a recent new owner of a Hustler SD 54" mower and at this point only have 4.5 hrs under it. I plan to add more this weekend and do my first oil change, as per instructions. I will probably be closer to 6 hrs but I think I will be okay. I have been extremely happy with my new purchase and I am relearning how to mow my lawn from an older 42" tractor style mower, I WILL get better with time. I also want to share a link with everyone that I found here. I am sorry if I am overstepping, but what this gentleman has done has made my mowing much easier and I just wanted to pass this information along to everyone here that may not have seen.http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/showthread.php/36513-Hustler-Rapter-sd-54
This gentleman has taken the time to produce a decal that indicates inch measurements instead of letters for deck height adjustment. It works like a charm and is honestly so much easier to read when mowing. I think this is how these mowers, as great as they are, should come from the factory. Maybe someone will find it useful.
I am happy to be apart of the Hustler family and look forward to many years of a wonderful mowing experience.
#259
mhavanti
mhavanti
#260
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#261
mhavanti
mhavanti
You are very welcome. My idea came from Jersey577's modification and although I like his better, I worry about some small kid running up and sticking their toes under the belt cover with his. Since he is doing commercial, that isn't likely. I don't, so, I was very concerned that I would try to preclude that from happening.
I shall post Tom's (Jersey577) so you can compare.
If you can get away with it, his is wide open and now way it could capture any debris. Now that is an opening! I like it a lot.
I shall post Tom's (Jersey577) so you can compare.
If you can get away with it, his is wide open and now way it could capture any debris. Now that is an opening! I like it a lot.
#262
Cheygunslinger
Cheygunslinger
Attachments
#263
mhavanti
mhavanti
#264
Datadave
Datadave
#266
Mykey
Mykey
Attachments
#269
mhavanti
mhavanti
#270
Scythe
Scythe
#271
mhavanti
mhavanti
#273
Datadave
Datadave
#275
mhavanti
mhavanti
#277
Datadave
Datadave
#279
Datadave
Datadave
#281
mhavanti
mhavanti
#283
mhavanti
mhavanti
#285
mhavanti
mhavanti
#288
mhavanti
mhavanti
#290
mhavanti
mhavanti
#293
mhavanti
mhavanti
#295
mhavanti
mhavanti
#299
mhavanti
mhavanti
#300
mhavanti
mhavanti
#301
BlazNT
BlazNT
#303
mhavanti
mhavanti
#305
PVHIII
PVHIII
#306
PVHIII
PVHIII
#308
mhavanti
mhavanti
#311
mhavanti
mhavanti
#313
mhavanti
mhavanti
#315
Mow&Go
Mow&Go
Attachments
#316
mhavanti
mhavanti
#317
peapicker
peapicker
#319
mhavanti
mhavanti
#320
mhavanti
mhavanti
#321
peapicker
peapicker
#322
mhavanti
mhavanti
#323
peapicker
peapicker
#324
mhavanti
mhavanti
#327
mhavanti
mhavanti
#330
mhavanti
mhavanti
#332
mhavanti
mhavanti
#334
mhavanti
mhavanti
#338
mhavanti
mhavanti
#340
mhavanti
mhavanti
#342
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#345
mhavanti
mhavanti
#346
H
Hostil1
H
Hostil1
Hello my name is Vince and I live in Northeast Ohio. Just purchased our first Zero Turn and so far the Wife and I have only been practicing on low throttle. Really going to take some getting used to.
Hustler Raptor SD 54"
Hustler Raptor SD 54"
#348
mhavanti
mhavanti
#351
mhavanti
mhavanti
#353
mhavanti
mhavanti
#356
mhavanti
mhavanti
#358
mhavanti
mhavanti
#359
The Chairman
The Chairman
#360
mhavanti
mhavanti
Hello Chairman,
Sorry to hear you're not happy with the Raptor. I'm going to the last part of your post first. Raising the rear of your deck will not make a problem go away, if anything, it can make things worse depending upon how dense your fawna. If one were to raise any portion of the deck, the front by a quarter may be of some help although you also lose a part of the vacuum from the blades. Usually when leaving a part of the central portion of the cut, conditions of speed relative to dampness (or lack thereof again depending upon the type of fawna) along with lack of sufficient vacuum from blades can cause stragglers.
Bearings are a part of normal wear and tear and especially on 11 acres if you are hitting it pretty much non-stop. The factory bearings are pretty good, however there are even better quality bearings on the market and you won't find them at a mower shop or online. Go to your local auto parts store or if you have a bearing company nearby, give them one of your bearings and lay down the denero to get the heaviest side load, precision bearings you can afford. Once you have done that, mow on brother, hammer down. You could drill and thread the spindle housings for a grease zerk, use the cheaper quality bearings by removing the grease seal from one side on both of the bearings. Then grease the spindles every time you mow. Should solve your bearing problem.
The drive belt tension spring being shortened didn't hurt a thing and will definitely put more side load on the belt inside the pulleys as well as more pressure on the spindle bearings. (I think we talked about bearing problem above. lol) With the extra side loads, a greaseable spindle may be in your future.
To be honest, sounds as though that little old cheapo RSD is standing up to 11 acres pretty well. Normal wear and tear is to be expected. You can always make improvements on a RSD such as belt guard ventilation to keep the belt pulleys from being impacted by clogging, burning belts and throwing off or breaking belts. I'll include a couple of examples herein. Most likely the cause of your belt problems.
You may also want to increase your fuel capacity. I recommend you do not do this as this was for my own use. I did it this way and if you do so, I will not accept any responsibility in your choice to do so.
It adds approximately another gallon of fuel capacity. Make less trips back to the fueling station or as we say in Arkansas, back at the barn.
A seat belt really helps hold you back into the saddle on rough areas and I wouldn't ride without it anymore considering the three fractures in my spine. It isn't for roll over purposes, simply to hold your butt in the rear of the saddle.
There are other upgrades if you're interested. Let me know.
Good luck,
Max
Sorry to hear you're not happy with the Raptor. I'm going to the last part of your post first. Raising the rear of your deck will not make a problem go away, if anything, it can make things worse depending upon how dense your fawna. If one were to raise any portion of the deck, the front by a quarter may be of some help although you also lose a part of the vacuum from the blades. Usually when leaving a part of the central portion of the cut, conditions of speed relative to dampness (or lack thereof again depending upon the type of fawna) along with lack of sufficient vacuum from blades can cause stragglers.
Bearings are a part of normal wear and tear and especially on 11 acres if you are hitting it pretty much non-stop. The factory bearings are pretty good, however there are even better quality bearings on the market and you won't find them at a mower shop or online. Go to your local auto parts store or if you have a bearing company nearby, give them one of your bearings and lay down the denero to get the heaviest side load, precision bearings you can afford. Once you have done that, mow on brother, hammer down. You could drill and thread the spindle housings for a grease zerk, use the cheaper quality bearings by removing the grease seal from one side on both of the bearings. Then grease the spindles every time you mow. Should solve your bearing problem.
The drive belt tension spring being shortened didn't hurt a thing and will definitely put more side load on the belt inside the pulleys as well as more pressure on the spindle bearings. (I think we talked about bearing problem above. lol) With the extra side loads, a greaseable spindle may be in your future.
To be honest, sounds as though that little old cheapo RSD is standing up to 11 acres pretty well. Normal wear and tear is to be expected. You can always make improvements on a RSD such as belt guard ventilation to keep the belt pulleys from being impacted by clogging, burning belts and throwing off or breaking belts. I'll include a couple of examples herein. Most likely the cause of your belt problems.
You may also want to increase your fuel capacity. I recommend you do not do this as this was for my own use. I did it this way and if you do so, I will not accept any responsibility in your choice to do so.
It adds approximately another gallon of fuel capacity. Make less trips back to the fueling station or as we say in Arkansas, back at the barn.A seat belt really helps hold you back into the saddle on rough areas and I wouldn't ride without it anymore considering the three fractures in my spine. It isn't for roll over purposes, simply to hold your butt in the rear of the saddle.
There are other upgrades if you're interested. Let me know.
Good luck,
Max
#361
The Chairman
The Chairman
Thanks Max! Yeah, I've gone to the better bearings in the hubs, but mowing 30 ish acres a month for 9 months is a lot of mowing. I hadn't thought of putting in zerks in the towers, but that's a concept I'll research. I have a cracked tower I can play with to see if I like it.
As I'm mowing, it's obvious that the biggest problem seems to be getting rid of the grass under the deck. We had 21 days of rain in a row last month, so the grass is amazingly thick and lush. I believe as the grass accumulatesit's pushing the grass I want to cut down. I'm going to inspect under the deck to be sure all the baffles are inline and square and watched your Youtube on the blade guard with great interest. It definitely starts to accumulate on the rear portion of the chute.
As for the spring, that is on the drive, not the deck. I still have the original belt for the deck. I did find that the OE spring would allow the idler on the drive to allow the belt to come in contact with the starboard drive pulley, cutting it. In addition to the far better belt, I went with a stiffer and shorter spring, as well as created a 'limiter' made out of 150# leader. Since then, I haven't had a drive belt failure. [ceter]
A little background, I worked in automotive for thirty years, left just before the turn of the century. I also apprenticed in a machine shop while at UF. Now I am a Scuba Instructor and own/operate the largest forum/community for Scuba. I moved to the "cave capital" of the world, because I love cave diving.
As I'm mowing, it's obvious that the biggest problem seems to be getting rid of the grass under the deck. We had 21 days of rain in a row last month, so the grass is amazingly thick and lush. I believe as the grass accumulatesit's pushing the grass I want to cut down. I'm going to inspect under the deck to be sure all the baffles are inline and square and watched your Youtube on the blade guard with great interest. It definitely starts to accumulate on the rear portion of the chute.
As for the spring, that is on the drive, not the deck. I still have the original belt for the deck. I did find that the OE spring would allow the idler on the drive to allow the belt to come in contact with the starboard drive pulley, cutting it. In addition to the far better belt, I went with a stiffer and shorter spring, as well as created a 'limiter' made out of 150# leader. Since then, I haven't had a drive belt failure. [ceter]
A little background, I worked in automotive for thirty years, left just before the turn of the century. I also apprenticed in a machine shop while at UF. Now I am a Scuba Instructor and own/operate the largest forum/community for Scuba. I moved to the "cave capital" of the world, because I love cave diving.
#362
mhavanti
mhavanti
#364
mhavanti
mhavanti
#366
mhavanti
mhavanti
#368
mhavanti
mhavanti
#369
va duc
va duc
Top of the morning to you all! I have been considering the purchase of a ZT for some time now. I have a JD 320 garden tractor for mowing and a 318 for gardening, plowing etc. The 320 has over 1200 hours and is on its last leg. I mow 2 acres and since ZT's are faster I was considering one for my application.
I began to do research on ZT's, asked coworkers and a few semi-professional lawn care folks. I consistently heard to get the Kawasaki motor (the 320 has one) and to get a manufactured deck for longevity. I was looking for used as I did not want to spend more than what my first child's car cost me. The research led me to believe that I was not going to be able to find what I wanted at my price point. 3 grand or so was all I was prepared to spend.
A hustler raptor sd popped up on the local market at a good price and I started to research them. I liked the fact that they are made in the USA and had all of the requirements I was looking for. This one was a one owner and had been purchased at a lawn care business. This owner had taken very good care of it and it was in great shape. Needles to say I am now the proud owner! Looking forward to learning more about this machine on this forum.
I began to do research on ZT's, asked coworkers and a few semi-professional lawn care folks. I consistently heard to get the Kawasaki motor (the 320 has one) and to get a manufactured deck for longevity. I was looking for used as I did not want to spend more than what my first child's car cost me. The research led me to believe that I was not going to be able to find what I wanted at my price point. 3 grand or so was all I was prepared to spend.
A hustler raptor sd popped up on the local market at a good price and I started to research them. I liked the fact that they are made in the USA and had all of the requirements I was looking for. This one was a one owner and had been purchased at a lawn care business. This owner had taken very good care of it and it was in great shape. Needles to say I am now the proud owner! Looking forward to learning more about this machine on this forum.
#371
mhavanti
mhavanti
#373
mhavanti
mhavanti
#375
mhavanti
mhavanti
#382
mhavanti
mhavanti
#385
SoftwareDevJason
SoftwareDevJason
#386
mhavanti
mhavanti
#390
The Chairman
The Chairman
I own 10.82 acres in SE Suwannee County, Florida. It's mostly a huge lawn and I love it.
Here is my Hustler Raptor SD 60" mower.
I also picked up a commercial blade grinder for $50.
The end result... In real life, I own the world's largest website/forum for Scuba Diving as well as teach Scuba.
#391
mhavanti
mhavanti
#392
The Chairman
The Chairman
#394
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#398
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#399
V
vanhanz
V
vanhanz
Hey gang, new owner here. Bought a Hustler Raptor SD 60 brand new. Just built a house and plan to mow about 2 acres. Grass hasn't grown yet but can't wait to mow it as soon as it does. I'm coming from an extremely small yard in the city, using a push mower that was put out for trash, replaced the carb and used it to mow the lawn for 4 years. I just planted Tall Fescue 2 weeks ago, going to overseed with Rye in a few weeks. Here is a picture of my SD
#400
Murciag
Murciag
#402
mhavanti
mhavanti
#403
logert gogert
logert gogert
#404
mhavanti
mhavanti
#406
logert gogert
logert gogert
#408
logert gogert
logert gogert
#409
mhavanti
mhavanti
#410
The Chairman
The Chairman
#415
The Chairman
The Chairman
#420
Bobio78
Bobio78
#422
904MiniZ
904MiniZ
Hello! My name is Glenn and I just picked up this 42” Mini Z this weekend, I absolutely love this mower and it is in excellent shape. Glad to be apart of the forum ?? Jacksonville Fl area 
#423
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#425
BillQ
BillQ
#432
Geebourque
Geebourque
#434
Redmichael
Redmichael
#435
Jogo46
Jogo46
Attachments
#439
breagler
breagler
#441
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#442
breagler
breagler
#443
Mower King
Mower King
#444
breagler
breagler
#445
Mower King
Mower King
#446
breagler
breagler
Thanks for the info, I consulted the manual and here is what Kawasaki recommends. 10W40 should be best choice unless we get over 100 deg in July and August like this year.
#450
Silentmower
Silentmower
#451
lreops
lreops
#452
breagler
breagler
#454
breagler
Here is my version with a bit more area cut out on the discharge side.
Here is the left side of the deck.
These still provide enough support that you can step on the covers without any flexing.
Stay safe out there!!
GB
breagler
Here is another version of this idea patterned after some of Hustler's 2021 models. The factory model is below.
Here is my version with a bit more area cut out on the discharge side.
Here is the left side of the deck.
These still provide enough support that you can step on the covers without any flexing.
Stay safe out there!!
GB
#459
Robzilla
Robzilla
#461
Hustler512
Hustler512
#470
fcpjax
fcpjax
#471
fcpjax
fcpjax
#472
Mr. Mower
Mr. Mower
#476
M.A.W.
M.A.W.
#485
trevorklat
trevorklat
I am getting ready to refurbish an old Hustler 3400ZT mower with a 72 inch cutting deck. It has obviously been parked outside and hasn't run in several years.
#499
Big-Rich
Big-Rich