Product Manual

19
Operation
Note: Refer to the Tractor Operator’s Manual for important
information concerning safely operating your tractor.
CAUTION
After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disengage the PTO, and remove the key. Inspect the
tiller for damage before starting.
The tiller may propel the tractor forward when first
lowered into hard ground especially if tiller depth is set
too deep or tractor ground speed is too fast.
Checks Before Starting
1. Make sure all covers and guards are in place. Make
sure all nuts, bolts, clevis pins, and clips are secure.
2. The tiller must be lubricated before first use and
after every four hours of operation. If required, see
instructions in “Maintenance” section.
3. Clear the work area of any items that could be caught in
the tiller.
Transporting
When transporting the tiller to and from the work area, the
tiller should be fully raised. Adjust ground speed according
to condition of the ground surface.
Turning or Backing When Tilling
Before backing up or turning, raise the tiller until it clears
the ground. Otherwise, the tiller can be damaged.
The weight of the tiller will reduce the weight on the front
tires. Front counterweights are recommended to restore
normal turning ability.
Engine Speed and Ground Speed
Tilling should always be done with engine speed at full
throttle. If ground speed is too high, slow down. Do not
reduce the engine speed. Refer to the tractor “Operator’s
Manual” for more information on tractor operation.
WARNING
Perform the Safety System Interlock test found in your
tractor Operator’s Manual. If tractor does not pass the
test, do not operate the tractor. See your authorized
dealer. Under no circumstances should you attempt to
defeat the safety system.
To prevent an explosion or fire, never store the tractor
with fuel in the tank inside a building where an ignition
source is present.
DANGER
OPERATING ON SLOPES CAN BE DANGEROUS
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet vertically in 20 feet
horizontally.
Operate the unit at a slow ground speed when driving
onto a slope. Avoid using brakes to control ground
speed.
When operating on slopes that are greater than 15%
(8.5°) but less than 17.6 percent, use additional wheel
weights or counterweights.
In addition to counter weights, use extra caution when
operating on slopes. Drive UP and DOWN the slope,
never across the face, use caution when changing
directions, and DO NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
Starting and Stopping
To start tilling, engage the tractor PTO then lower the
tiller. Slowly drive forward. The tiller will work into the soil.
Engage the PTO only when the tiller is out of the ground.
To stop the tiller, raise the tiller, and disengage the PTO.
Raise tiller to transport position before traveling to and from
the work site or storage area.
Tilling Suggestions
Plan the pattern before beginning. When the land contour
permits, it is best to travel in the longest direction to
minimize turning.
The tiller will dig deeper with slow ground speed. It is best
to increase the depth on succeeding passes until the
desired depth is reached. Making passes crossways to the
previous pass usually helps break sod into fine particles. In
soft, loose soil, it may be possible to till to desired depth in
one pass.
Not for
Reproduction