Hustler OEM 42" Mulch Kit 117578 for Raptor Zero Turn Review

Overview

The Hustler OEM 42" Mulch Kit 117578 is a factory-engineered accessory designed specifically for Hustler Raptor zero-turn mowers with a 42-inch cutting deck. This isn’t a universal aftermarket part—it’s a drop-in kit that replaces your side-discharge chute and baffles to convert the deck into a closed mulching system. It’s built for Raptor owners who want a cleaner, more manicured finish without bagging or raking, and it’s best suited for lawns where grass clippings can be recycled into fine nutrients.

Who Should Buy This

• Homeowners with 1/2 to 1 acre lawns who want to eliminate bagging and prefer a natural fertilizer approach. The mulch kit saves time by leaving clippings on the lawn, but you need enough acreage to justify the $200 investment.
• Raptor owners who mow weekly during peak growing season. If you cut often and keep grass short, this kit creates a fine mulch that disappears into the turf. It’s less effective if you let grass get tall and then try to mulch it down.
• DIY lawn enthusiasts who want factory fitment and don’t trust universal kits. Hustler’s OEM part uses the same gauge steel and mounting points as the stock deck, so you’re not drilling holes or jury-rigging brackets.
• Homeowners who hate bagging and raking but still want a pristine look. This kit eliminates clippings on walkways and driveways, and it reduces the need for fertilizer since the clippings return nitrogen to the soil.

Key Features Breakdown

OEM Fit for Hustler Raptor 42" Decks
This kit is precision-engineered for the Raptor series, meaning it bolts directly onto the factory deck without modifications. The mounting holes align perfectly, and the hardware is included. No cutting, no shimming, no frustration.

Full 42-Inch Coverage
The kit includes a replacement mulch baffle (the curved plate under the deck) and a cover plate for the side discharge. The baffle redirects clippings back into the blade path for multiple cuts, while the cover plate seals the opening so nothing escapes. This creates a confined chamber that chops clippings into fine particles.

Heavy-Duty Steel Construction
Hustler uses 12-gauge steel for the baffle and cover plate, matching the deck’s thickness. This is not thin sheet metal—it’s built to withstand rocks, roots, and years of vibration without cracking or warping.

Compatible with Factory Blades
The kit works with Hustler’s standard 42-inch mulching blades (sold separately). You can also use standard lift blades, but mulching blades with a deeper curve and extra cutting edge produce the best results. The kit itself doesn’t include blades, so budget for those too.

Quick Installation (30-45 Minutes)
The kit includes a detailed instruction sheet, and installation requires basic hand tools: a socket wrench, a screwdriver, and a jack or blocks to lift the mower. No special skills needed, but you’ll need to remove the deck or at least tip the mower up.

Pros

1. Perfect fitment – No gaps, no rattles, no aftermarket guesswork. Bolts on like it came with the mower.
2. Reduces clean-up time – No bagging, no raking, no blowing clippings off the driveway. Just mow and go.
3. Improves lawn health – Fine clippings decompose quickly, returning nitrogen and organic matter to the soil. You’ll need less fertilizer over time.
4. Durable build – 12-gauge steel won’t bend or rust through like some cheap universal kits. This will outlast the mower.
5. Quieter operation – The enclosed deck dampens blade noise compared to side discharge. Your neighbors will thank you.
6. Cleaner finish – Eliminates clumps and streaks common with side discharge on thick grass. Leaves a uniform, manicured look.

Cons

1. Pricey at $200 – That’s a lot for a metal plate and a cover. You can find universal kits for half the price, but they won’t fit as well.
2. Requires separate mulching blades – The kit doesn’t include blades, and standard blades won’t mulch as well. Add another $30-$50 for the right ones.
3. Not for tall, wet grass – Mulching works best when you cut frequently and keep grass dry. If you let it get tall or mow in the dew, you’ll get clumps and uneven cutting.
4. Reduces bagging option – Once you install the mulch kit, you can’t easily swap back to bagging. It’s a commitment to the mulching lifestyle.

Bottom Line

The Hustler OEM 42" Mulch Kit 117578 is the right choice for Raptor owners who mow regularly and want to ditch the bagger without sacrificing lawn quality. At $200, it’s not cheap, and you’ll need to buy mulching blades separately, but the factory fitment and heavy-duty build make it a one-and-done upgrade. If you’re the type who mows every 5-7 days and wants a clean, clump-free finish with zero clean-up, this kit delivers. Skip it if you mow infrequently or in wet conditions—you’ll just be frustrated. For everyone else, it’s a solid investment that pays for itself in saved bagging time and reduced fertilizer costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this fit my Hustler Raptor with a 42-inch deck?
A: Yes, if your Raptor has a 42-inch fabricated deck (most models from 2015 onward). Check your mower’s model number—this kit fits Raptor, Raptor SD, and Raptor FX models with 42-inch decks. It does not fit 48-inch or 54-inch decks.

Q: Do I need special blades for this mulch kit to work well?
A: Strongly recommended. Standard high-lift blades will leave clippings too long and cause clumping. Hustler’s 42-inch mulching blades (part number 391371) have a deeper curve and extra cutting edge that chop clippings into fine particles. The kit works with standard blades in a pinch, but results won’t be as good.

Q: Can I still bag grass if I install this mulch kit?
A: No. The kit replaces the side-discharge chute and uses a cover plate that seals the opening. To bag, you’d need to remove the mulch kit and reinstall the side-discharge chute and bagger attachment. It’s not a quick swap—plan on 30 minutes each way.