Operation
Operation
OPERATION
NOTICE
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
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.
14
