User Guide

Overservicing
Overservicing occurs when an air filter element is
removed for cleaning or replacement before it is necessary.
Each time the filter is removed a small amount of dirt and
dust could fall in the intake system. This accumulated dirt
can cause a dusted engine. It only takes a few grams of
ingested dirt over the normal service life of an engine to
cause a dusted engine.
Do not clean element, replace with a new element only.
Cleaning used air filter elements, through improper cleaning
procedures, can get dust on the inside of the filter causing
dirt ingestion and engine failure.
It is important to note that whenever an air filter element
is cleaned by any method, the person or company
performing the cleaning assumes responsibility for the
integrity of the filter from then on. The Donaldson
warranty for air filters expires upon cleaning or
servicing in any manner because the condition of the
filter after servicing is completely out of their control.
Therefore, on a dust ingested engine failure, there will be
no warranty consideration if the air filter element has
been cleaned or serviced in any manner.
A partially dirty air filter element works better than a
new element. Therefore, a dirty filter element is not bad for
the engine unless it is excessively restricting the air flow and
engine performance is affected. The reason is simple. The
media in the filter must be porous to allow air to pass
through it. When dirty air passes through the filter, the dirt
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.
Improper installation of an air filter element
Dust must not leak past the seals on each end of the air
filter element. The filter must be aligned within the canister
and properly seated for an effective seal so that no dirt can
enter the engine.
Damaged filter, seals or canister
Never bang or bump the filter element against the tire or
any solid object, as dust and dirt particles will be forced
through the media causing continual passing of dirt into the
engine. Visually inspect the outside of the air cleaner
canister periodically for external damage and replace if
necessary.
Incorrect air cleaner element
Use only the correct Donaldson air filter element, Hustler
part number 785261, which is designed to fit the canister
properly.
Hustler air filter elements have the correct media
composition, filter area, micron size and dimensions.
Always use genuine Hustler filters. Many aftermarket filters
have been found to be incompatible with Hustler’s canisters
and engines.
The air filter must remain intact to block passage of dirt
and foreign particles from entering the engine. Being
inclined to disbelieve the need for more expensive air filter
elements used on gasoline engines may cause some
individuals to opt for a less expensive part.
The filter element must be sufficient size and
construction to withstand stresses, caused by rapid cycling
of the air volume demanded by the engine, without cracking
or tearing under fatigue and pressure (especially diesel
engines). Therefore, Hustler Turf Equipment and the engine
manufacturers have carefully selected a reliable filter
designed to fit the needs of the engines. The filter specified
is a Donaldson filter, Hustler part number 785261.
Owners should be reminded that failure to use original
equipment replacement parts is an “alteration” and will not
be considered for warranty in the event of engine damage.
Recommended service procedure
1. Release clamps and remove element. Clean the
canister with a damp cloth.
2. Before installing a new element, inspect it by placing a
bright light inside and rotate the element slowly,
looking for any holes or tears in the paper. Also check
gaskets for cuts or tears. Do not attempt to use a
damaged element which will allow abrasive particles
to enter the engine.
3. Reinstall the dust cup. Make sure it seals all the way
around the air cleaner body, then tighten the clamps.
4. Check all fittings and clamps periodically for tightness
and inspect hoses for holes or cracks.
5. Periodically check the intake hose for signs of ingested
dust. Locate and repair the source of ingested dirt.
6. Never operate a machine without an air filter installed.
Air restriction indicator
Any unit with a Kohler engine will have an air restriction
indicator installed in the air cleaner. Fig. 4-12
Replace the element whenever the restriction indicator
shows reaches the change filter red line. Check the indicator
daily and replace element as needed or annually whichever
occurs first.
Reset the indicator by pushing in on the yellow button
after each element change. Fig, 4-12
A restriction indicator takes the guesswork out of air
cleaner servicing and allows you to safely benefit from the
filter’s optimum performance.
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 manufacturer. Special attention should be
paid to applicable data which will not be duplicated here.
Belt replacement
Figures 4-13 and 4-14 show diagrams and descriptions of
the unit’s belt drive systems.
Inspect these belts frequently for wear and serviceability.
Replace a belt that shows signs of severe cuts, tears,
separation, weather checking and cracking, or burns caused
by slipping. Slight raveling of belt covering does not
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