Don't want to rain on your parade...
On the Hustler DS42 you will have drive problems related to the belt system if they like the Raptors that I have been servicing here. The DS42 is using the Hydro Gear ZT2800 series hydrostatic transaxles.
Problem #1 It has a 2" idler pulley that has a high failure rate cause drive belts to break. If you break a drive belt it highly recommended to replace this pulley. Just too rpms for the bearings to handle.
Problem #2 with Hydro setup is that the plastic fans will curl up hitting the side frame causing belt breakage. This is heat damage and blade are setting as they cool.
Problem #3 Hustler didn't use lock nuts for mounting the hydros and they will lose the bolts thus the hydros can nearly fall out.
As for the hydros themselves Hydro Gear does make very reliable units.
I haven't seen any deck problems but have only been servicing the three units here for the last four years. I have however seen better built decks. Definitely not a rock deck. The only other Hustler that I service is the Super Z which is nearly bullet proof deck wise; although, you would still have bearing problems.
Haven't had any experience with the other models you listed; although, I have seen one of the Husqvarna 242F here in the area.
