User Guide

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 Kawasaki engine will have an air restriction indicator
installed in the air cleaner. Fig. 11-12
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, 11-12
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
302612_0606
11-12
Figure 11-10C
Engine oil
drain plug
Engine oil filter
Kohler engine
Figure 11-10A
Engine oil
drain plug
Engine oil filter
Engine oil filler tube
Kawasaki Engine
Figure 11-10B
Engine oil
drain plug
Engine
oil filter
Engine oil filler tube Honda Engine