HUSTLER Raptor X Operator's Manual page 31

Refer to the Mower Blade Replacement section for blade
removal and installation.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves and use extra caution
when servicing them.
Check the mower blades daily, they are the key to power
efficiency and well groomed turf. Keep the blades sharp. A
dull blade will tear rather than cut the grass, leaving a brown
ragged top on the grass within a few hours. A dull blade also
requires more power from the engine.
Replace any blade which is bent, cracked or broken.
Always check for blade damage:
• if mower strikes a rock, branch or other
foreign object during mowing!
• or if an abnormal vibration occurs while
operating.
Make all necessary repairs before resuming
operation.
Sharpen the blades following the pattern shown. Touch-up
sharpening can be done with a file. Figure 4-6
After grinding the blades, check for balance. Blade
balancing can be done by placing the blade on an inverted
line punch or 5/8" bolt. A commercial balancing tool is also
available through most hardware supply stores.
The blade should not lean or tilt. When spinning the blade
slowly it should not wobble. Balance the blade before
reinstalling.
Lay the blade on a flat surface and check for distortion.
Replace any distorted blade. Figure 4-7 & Figure 4-8
607768
Do not sharpen to original pattern (below). It is
easier to get a straight cutting edge following
the re-sharpening pattern shown above.
A. Re-sharpening pattern
B. Original edge
Comparison of Warped and Straight Blades
A. Warped blade — replace
B. Straight blade
C. Cutting plane
4-5
B
Figure 4-6
A
B
Figure 4-7
A
C
REV A