Use Brake Cleaner to clean up your GG and I put mine in a disposable plastic bag with just the end sticking out. Wipe off the Zerk fitting first and insert well aligned. A couple pumps is all you need. Rags are for ruining. That's why they are called rags. I don't understand how you get it...
Perhaps the Blade tips are worn. Doesn't take much. You may also be mowing grass that is too long for smooth cut. Check Back to Front for level and be sure blades are reasonably sharp.
Good Advice. I inherited an X320 2006 model year. K58 Trans replaced at 288 hours,2022. $1,800 Cdn dealer installed (to preserve warranty). Love the 22 HP Kawi.