Deck Raising/Lowering Difficulty

[jdogg13]

I have a Hustler Raptor 52", model # 933077, model year 2015. Recently, I have been having a difficult time raising/lowering the deck using the deck lift handle. It feels very heavy and sometimes takes two hands to raise/lower. It used to raise/lower very easily. Has anybody experienced a similar issue? Is there an easy fix? Thanks in advance.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Clean & lube the lift system with either Lithium spray grease or graphite powder
NOT WD 40 or any similar product .
Next check that the deck lift springs are not full of debris preventing them doing their job
They are adjustable .
Not usually a problem but the springs can back off
On most Hustlers they are on the rod that connects the front & back lift arms
Some have one each side & others are discharge side only .