Mower Operation - HUSTLER Z Diesel Operator's Manual

Following an accident, check the ROPS, the operator's seat,
the seat belt, seat belt mountings and seat platform for
possible damage. Before operating the machine, replace all
damaged parts.
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to weld or straighten the
ROPS.
The ROPS structure's protective capability may be
impaired by structural damage, overturn or
alteration. Do not remove or alter any of the ROPS
parts. Do not attempt to weld or straighten ROPS.
Failure to adhere to these instructions could result
in severe injury or death.
If the ROPS is replaced, make sure to use the
proper hardware and apply the recommended
torque values to the attaching bolts.
ROPS Inspection
Inspect the ROPS after the first 20 hours of operation.
Following the initial inspection, check the ROPS after every
500 hours of operation or every six months, whichever comes
first.
1. Check the torque of the ROPS mounting bolts
(Figure 3-14). Tighten the bolts to the correct torques
as shown below if necessary.
2. Inspect the operator's seat and the mounting parts for
the seat belt. Tighten the bolts to the correct torque as
shown below if necessary and replace parts that show
wear or damage.
3. Check the seat platform to make sure it is secured
properly. Adjust or repair it as necessary.
Never operate the mower with the seat platform
improperly secured. The seat platform must be
properly secured to prevent the seat from
moving/tilting in the event of the mower tipping or
rollover.
Torque values:
ROPS mounting hardware . . . . . . . . . 73. . . . . . . . . 99
Seat belt mounting hardware . . . . . . 48. . . . . . . . . 65
603695
ft-lbs N•m
3-7
B
A. ROPS post
Figure 3-14

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 3-15
To go in reverse, pull the steering control levers rearward
an equal distance. Figure 3-15
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 3-15
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 3-15
A
B. ROPS mounting bolt
REV J