OPERATION

OPERATION

7.2 Constant Velocity (CV) Driveline

Mowers are equipped with a Constant Velocity (CV) driveline, the maximum turning angle between the tractor and mower must be determined to ensure the joint angle does not over-extend which can cause CV joint damage. Constant Velocity joints enable the driveline to operate smoothly with no vibrations and clattering at angles up to 80°. Angles greater than 80° will result in mechanical damage to the CV joint and mower driveline.

The Constant Velocity joint must be lubricated every 20-40 hours of operation as specified in the Maintenance Section. Failure to properly lubricate the joint will result in accelerated wear and joint component failure.

CV Driveline Maximum Angle Check Procedure

With the mower attached to the tractor and the driveline disconnected from the tractor PTO stub make a hard left turn until there is approximately a 1" clearance between the left rear tractor tire and mower frame or tongue.

Stop and completely shut down the tractor. Place the tractor in Park and apply the Parking Brake before dismounting.

Check the CV joint at this maximum turning radius by holding the driveline yoke above the PTO shaft and then angle the CV joint to its maximum angle. A minimum difference of 10 degrees between the center line of the yoke and the PTO shaft must be maintained to ensure the joint will not be over angled. If the joint cannot be angled at least 10°, there is a potential problem of over-angling the joint while making sharp turns.

Solutions: To ensure the joint is not damaged, check the following:

Check the drawbar length to ensure that it is at the proper length for the RPM speed of the mower. Move the tractor rear tires wider apart to limit the tractor turning radius.

Position the mower at multiple angles and perform the above procedure. Determine the sharpest turning radius that maintains a safe operating angle and note this position to the operator. OPS-R-0006_A

TW120 01/11

Operation Section 4-18

© 2011 Alamo Group Inc.

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Blue Rhino FC-0024, FC-0025 manual Constant Velocity CV Driveline, CV Driveline Maximum Angle Check Procedure