Removing deck and rust on Hustler Raptor

[@oalmikee1234]

Thanks again for all the input. All was very helpful. Keeping doing.

[@johnmclauvt8496]

I took the deck off of my mower last fall. I struggled mightily removing the spring & was not looking forward to putting it back on. Then I saw your video & your idea of using a small rope. That worked like a champ. It was so much easier. Thanks for your informative video!

[@danielebrparish4271]

The metal loop that the spring hooks into is called a spring anchor. There are 4 holes where the anchor fits. Slide it into the two holes closest to the spring and push it back until the 90 degree end of the anchor slips through the two holes furthest from the spring. In other words the anchor uses all four holes. The spring hack is the simplest and easiest way to remove and install the spring. Just remember the anchor should lay almost flat on the deck not vertical as shown here. Great job cleaning and painting the deck. I found a little 3 gallon air compressor someone put by the curb for disposal. I replaced the pressure gauge and use it to clean off the mower before storing it for the next mowing. I replaced the bolts for the pulley covers with knobbed ones from amazon so I don't have to use tools to take them off after mowing for deck cleaning.

[@Scottadamsfan3481]

My hustler spindle fell down , I can’t figure out what holds the metal around the spindle onto the deck

[@rickdelugo6158]

Have you tried sandblasting?

[@danielebrparish4271]

Use a drill with a wire brush attachment instead of a grinder to clean the deck and put a couple of coats of graphite undercoating on top of the rustoleum to keep grass from sticking as much. Make this part of your annual fall maintenence together with the oil, air & gas filter changes so you will be ready to crank and go in the spring.

[@brianagee2647]

PB Blaster surface and shield protector

[@sargepowell2113]

I wish I could find those bowls that hold the spindle mine is rusted out I didn't catch it in time like you did!

[@jpspen]

Rust converter needs RUST to work... LOL

[@mkfgaming7018]

I have one and they’re not worthwhile having too many issues and they break down on you very easily. Yes watches videos on hustlers you’ll see when I say they’re no good.

[@garymartin8619]

Oil is the trick

[@aphex0540]

The spring goes on before the belt. So easy