9-37 108277 10/08
WARNING: If the transaxle belt fails, loss of control will occur especially when operating on a slope.
If you lose steering control while operating the machine, place the steering control levers in the park
brake position immediately. Inspect the machine and involve your Hustler dealer to resolve the prob-
lem before continuing to operate.
Deck drive belt adjustment
The spindle belt tension remains constant by means of a tension idler and spring (FIG. 69). The spring tension
should be such that the belt does not slip under normal operating load conditions, assuming the belt is not excessively
worn or damaged. As belt stretches and wears in, adjustment may become necessary. To increase belt tension, move
the spring chain one (or more) link(s) at the anchor bracket (FIG. 69). Installed spring length should be 7.50" ± .3" orig-
inally with adjustments of .60" per chain link (FIG. 69).
IMPORTANT: Do not over tension the spring to compensate for a badly worn belt or pulley.
Engine RPM setting
The FasTrak 48/54 is designed so that the engine will run at 3450 rpm with transaxle load only. At this speed the
transaxles are running at their maximum rated speed.
Deck leveling and height adjustment
The mower deck has three areas that may need to be checked and adjusted periodically. Before considering any
mower deck leveling adjustments, check that the tire air pressure is within the specified range.
DECK LEVEL ADJUSTMENTS
Leveling the deck must be done in the following manner and order:
1. Check tire pressures to make certain they are properly inflated before starting to level
FIG. 68
FIG. 69 FIG. 70
TENSION
IDLER
SPRING
PUMP
DRIVE BELT
ANCHOR
SPRING
TENSION IDLER
CHAIN
BRACKET
