Mower Operation - HUSTLER Raptor Operator's Manual

Bypass valve rod shown in operating position
B
A
A. Bypass valve rod
Figure 3-8

Mower Operation

This mower features the SmoothTrak™ steering system.
The following provides you with detailed information on how
to operate the mower efficiently.
Driving the Mower
Never make sudden stops or reverse direction,
especially when maneuvering on a slope. The
steering is designed for sensitive response. Rapid
movement of the control levers in either direction
could result in a reaction of the mower that can
cause serious injury.
After starting the engine, engage the steering control
levers and steer as follows:
To go forward, push the steering control levers forward an
equal distance. Figure 3-9
To go in reverse, pull the steering control levers rearward
an equal distance. Figure 3-9
To turn left, move the right steering control lever farther
forward from neutral than the left steering control lever.
To turn right, move the left steering control lever farther
forward from neutral than the right steering control lever.
Figure 3-9
REV U
B. Slot
Zero radius turn, move one steering control lever forward
and the other steering control lever back of neutral. This
allows the drive wheels to counter-rotate. Figure 3-9
To stop or decrease speed, move steering control levers to
neutral. When going forward pull back gently on steering
control levers. When going in reverse push forward gently on
steering control levers.
For emergency stops, when traveling forward or rearward,
place the steering control levers in the park brake position
immediately.
When moving in the rearward direction push
forward gently on steering control levers and avoid
sudden movement. Any sudden movement could
cause the front of the mower to come off of the
ground resulting in possible loss of control,
causing serious injury or death.
To make a three point turn to the right:
1. Move the left steering control lever farther forward
from neutral than the right steering control lever and
start the turn. Figure 3-10
2. Next, pull back on the steering control levers until they
pass neutral and the machine starts to go rearward.
Figure 3-10
3. Pull the right steering control lever farther rearward
from neutral than the left steering control lever until
the rear of the machine pivots around. Figure 3-10
4. Then, push the steering control levers forward until
they both pass neutral and the machine starts to go
forward. Figure 3-10
5. Push the left steering control lever farther forward
from neutral than the right steering control lever and
finish the turn. Figure 3-10
Always be aware of what is behind the machine
before backing up. Do not mow in reverse unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing up.
IMPORTANT:
components may occur with rapid movement of the steering
controls.
To increase speed, increase the steering control lever's
distance from neutral. The farther forward the steering
control levers are from neutral, the faster the mower will
travel forward. The farther back the steering control levers
are from neutral, the faster the mower will go in reverse.
3-4
Damage to the hydraulic system
604220