RT45 Operator’s Manual Overview - 2 Serial Number Location Serial Number Location Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. RT45 (2) and engine (1) serial numbers are located as shown. Date of manufacture Date of purchase RT45 serial number...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Overview - 3 Intended Use Intended Use The RT45 is a riding trencher designed to install buried service lines of various sizes using a variety of ® Ditch Witch attachments. Attachment Max. width/diameter Max. depth A323 backhoe 18 in (460 mm) 93.2 in (2.4 m)
RT45 Operator’s Manual Overview - 5 Operator Orientation Operator Orientation 1. Front of unit 3. Rear of unit 2. Right of unit 4. Left of unit Right and left sides of machine are determined by facing front of unit while seated at the controls.
If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner. If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need assistance in locating a dealer, visit our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
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Issue number 3.0/OM-06/16 Part number 053-2746 Copyright 2014, 2016 by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. and Ditch Witch are registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc. This product and its use may be covered by one or more patents at http://patents.charlesmachine.works.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Contents - 9 Contents Overview machine serial number, information about the type of work this machine is designed to perform, basic machine components, and how to use this manual Foreword part number, revision level, and publication date of this manual, and factory contact...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Contents - 10 Drill procedures for drilling Microtrench procedures for microtrenching Systems and Equipment chain, teeth, sprockets, and optional equipment Complete the Job procedures for backfilling and restoring the jobsite and rinsing and storing equipment Service service intervals and instructions for this machine including lubrication, replacement...
• Fully inspect equipment before operating. Repair or replace any worn or damaged parts. Replace missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for assistance. • Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate anything that does not look or feel right.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 13 Emergency Procedures Emergency Procedures Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment. Before operating any equipment, review emergency procedures and check that all safety precautions have been taken.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 14 Emergency Procedures If an Electric Line is Damaged If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are on tractor, DO NOT MOVE. Remain on tractor and take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 15 Emergency Procedures If a Gas Line is Damaged Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause burns. No smoking, no flame, no spark. 275-419 (2P) Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 16 Emergency Procedures If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable. Vision damage can occur. Contact utility company. If Machine Catches on Fire Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend on the situation.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 17 Safety Alert Classifications Safety Alert Classifications These classifications and the icons defined on the following pages work together to alert you to situations which could be harmful to you, jobsite bystanders or your equipment. When you see these words and icons in the book or on the machine, carefully read and follow all instructions.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 18 Machine Safety Alerts Machine Safety Alerts Runaway possible. Start from operator’s position only. 275-070 Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool or wear gloves.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 19 Machine Safety Alerts Rollover could kill or crush. Wear seat belt. 275-303 Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be injured or killed. Only operator is allowed on machine. 273-487 Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 20 Attachment Safety Alerts Attachment Safety Alerts A323 Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. Moving parts could cut off hand. Keep hands away.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 21 Attachment Safety Alerts H313 Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away. 274-002 Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442 Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 22 Attachment Safety Alerts H314 Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away. 274-002 Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442 Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 23 Attachment Safety Alerts H350 Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away. 274-002 Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 24 Attachment Safety Alerts H342 Moving parts could cut off hand. Keep hands away. 275-184 Flying objects thrown by machine may strike people. Wear safety glasses and hard hat. 275-193 Moving digging teeth will cause serious injury or death.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 25 Attachment Safety Alerts H331 Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 26 Attachment Safety Alerts MT12 Moving parts could cut off hand. Keep hands away. 275-184 Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-318 Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442 Flying objects thrown by machine may strike people.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Safety - 27 Attachment Safety Alerts Moving digging teeth will cause serious injury or death. Stay away. 275-443 Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool or wear gloves. 275-355 Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be injured or killed.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 31 Center Console Item Description Notes 1. Auxiliary power outlet Provides power for other Power output is 12V, 5A. equipment. 2. Engine override switch If engine shutdown indicator This control allows a temporary comes on, press to delay override of engine shutdown.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 32 Center Console Item Description Notes 6. Ground drive foot control To move tractor forward, push Pedal should automatically return to top of pedal. neutral when released. To move tractor backward, push bottom of pedal.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 34 Center Console Item Description Notes 1. Hydraulic fluid Lights if hydraulic fluid If light remains on: temperature indicator overheats. Light will come on briefly when engine is started. • Check that engine fan is turning when engine is running.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 35 Center Console Item Description Notes 6. Attachment drive Lights when attachment drive/ Part of the start interlock system. To neutral indicator direction control is in neutral. start engine, • operator must be in seat, •...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 36 Center Console Item Description Notes 12. Air filter restriction Indicator will begin flashing To view the air filter percentage before indicator once the air filter is 25% 25% unrestricted, press the unrestricted. Percentage will diagnostics menu button at any time.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 37 Right Fender Right Fender Tractor Controls 1. Ground drive speed/direction control 4. Backfill blade tilt control * 2. Rear steer indicator* 5. Rear steer control* 3. Backfill blade control 6. Throttle *optional...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 38 Right Fender Item Description Notes 1. Ground drive speed/ To go forward, push. Control does not automatically return direction control to neutral position when released. To go backward, pull. To go faster in either direction, move farther from center.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 39 Right Fender Item Description Notes 4. Backfill blade tilt To tilt right side of blade control down, push. To tilt left side of blade down, pull. c00ic253h.eps 5. Rear steer control To turn rear tires right, push until tires reach desired position, then release.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 40 Right Fender Trencher Controls Note: Control configuration with rear steer option is shown in main illustration. Control configuration without rear steer is shown in balloon. 1. Trencher slide control* 3. Backfill blade tilt/trencher slide selector* 2.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 41 Right Fender Item Description Notes 2. Boom lift control To lower, push. To raise, pull. 3. Backfill blade tilt/ To control backfill blade tilt, trencher slide selector push. To control trencher slide, pull. c00ic263h.eps...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 42 Right Fender Combo Controls Note: Control configuration with rear steer option is shown in main illustration. Control configuration without rear steer is shown in balloon. 1. Trencher/Plow lift control 2. Trencher/plow select control Item...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 43 Right Fender Item Description Notes 2. Trencher/plow select To select plow, push. control To select trencher, pull.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 44 Right Fender Saw Controls Note: Control configuration with rear steer option is shown in main illustration. Control configuration without rear steer is shown in balloon. 1. Saw swing control 3. Backfill blade tilt/saw swing selector 2.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 45 Right Fender Item Description Notes 2. Saw lift control To lower, push. To raise, pull. 3. Backfill blade tilt/saw To control backfill blade tilt, swing selector push. To control saw swing, pull. c00ic264h.eps...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 46 Right Fender Plow Controls Note: Control configuration with rear steer option is shown in main illustration. Control configuration without rear steer is shown in balloon. 1. Plow swing control 3. Backfill blade tilt/plow swing selector 2.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 47 Right Fender Item Description Notes 2. Plow lift control To raise, pull. To lower, push. c00ic204h.eps 3. Backfill blade tilt/plow To control backfill blade tilt, Use when optional 6-way backfill swing selector push. blade is installed.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 48 Right Fender Microtrencher Controls Tractor 1. Traverse (slide) control 3. Lift control 2. Level control 4. Backfill blade tilt / Traverse selector Item Description Notes 1. Traverse (slide) control To slide microtrencher right, push.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 49 Right Fender Item Description Notes 2. Level control To lower rear of microtrencher, push. To raise rear of microtrencher, pull. 3. Lift control To lower, push. To raise, pull. 4. Backfill blade tilt /...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 51 Right Fender Item Description Notes 3. Bubble level Displays left-to-right Use manual tilt adjustment and microtrencher angle. bubble level together to adjust microtrencher to match jobsite conditions. See “Adjust Tilt” on page 4. Level indicator...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 53 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 1. Remote throttle on/off To turn on, press top. To turn off, press bottom. 2. Remote throttle To increase engine speed, increase/decrease press top. To decrease engine speed, press bottom.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 54 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 6. Bucket/Dipper control To open bucket, move right. Control can perform more than one action at a time. By “feathering” the To close bucket, move left. control, operator can combine backhoe operations.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 55 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 11. Mechanical stow lock To lock, push stow lock Use this control to lock boom in the control handle. stowed position. To unlock, move stow lock NOTICE: Always lock boom during handle to right.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 56 Left Fender Left Fender 1. Parking brake 3. Attachment speed/direction control 2. Work light switch* * optional Item Description Notes 1. Parking brake To set, pull. To release, push. c00ic268h.eps...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 57 Left Fender Item Description Notes 2. Work light switch To turn on, press top. To turn off, press bottom. 3. Attachment speed/ To rotate attachment forward Control does not return to neutral direction control or to start plow vibrator box, when released.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Controls - 58 Seat Seat 1. Seat belt 2. Seat slide control Item Description Notes 1. Seat belt To fasten, insert latch into buckle. Adjust until seat belt is low and tight. To release, lift top of buckle.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 62 Planning Planning 1. Gather information about jobsite. See page 66. 2. Inspect jobsite. See page 67. 3. Classify jobsite. See page 68. 4. Select chain and teeth to match your soil type, if necessary. See page 134.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 63 Sawing Sawing 1. Start unit. See page 72. 2. Position tractor and controls. See page 102. 3. Begin sawing. See page 103. 4. Complete the installation. See page 104. 5. Backfill the trench. See page 140.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 64 Microtrenching Microtrenching 1. Start unit. See page 72. 2. Position tractor and controls. See page 124. 3. Begin trenching. See page 128. 4. Complete the installation. See page 131. 5. Backfill the trench. See page 140.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 66 Gather Information Gather Information A successful job begins before you dig. The first step in planning is reviewing information already available about the job and jobsite. Review Job Plan Review blueprints or other plans. Check for information about existing or planned structures, elevations, or proposed work that may be taking place at the same time.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 67 Inspect Site Inspect Site Identify Hazards Inspect jobsite before transporting equipment. Check for the following: • overall grade or slope • changes in elevation such as hills or other open trenches • obstacles such as buildings, railroad crossings, or streams •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 68 Classify Jobsite Classify Jobsite Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment. To help avoid injury: • Wear personal protective equipment including hard hat, safety eye wear, and hearing protection.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 69 Classify Jobsite Apply Precautions Once classified, precautions appropriate for jobsite must be taken. Follow U.S. Department of Labor regulations on excavating and trenching (Part 1926, Subpart P) and other similar regulations. Electric Jobsite Precautions Use one or both of these methods.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 70 Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Supplies • fuel • keys • personal protective equipment, such as hard hat and safety glasses Fluid Levels • fuel • hydraulic fluid •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drive - 72 Start Unit Start Unit Before operating tractor, read engine manufacturer’s starting and operating instructions. Follow instructions for new engine break-in. Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Drive - 73 Start Unit 1. Fasten and adjust seat belt. 2. Check that ground drive control and attachment speed/direction control are in neutral. 3. Move throttle to low. 4. Verify that parking brake is set. 5. Turn ignition switch to the run position (key on, engine off). Cold start wait indicator will appear.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drive - 75 Drive Safe Slope Operation Tipover possible. Machine can tip over and crush you. To help avoid injury: • Always operate with heavy end uphill. • Drive cautiously at all times. • Never jerk control levers. Use a steady even motion.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drive - 76 Shut Down Shut Down 1. When job is complete, move ground drive control to neutral. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Lower all attachments to ground. 4. Move throttle to low for 3 minutes to cool engine.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 78 Lift Lift Crushing weight. If load falls or moves it could kill or crush you. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 79 Lift Procedure Tractor This machine is not configured for lifting. If the machine must be lifted, load machine into a container or onto a platform appropriate for lifting. See “Specifications” on page 187 for size and weight of machine.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 80 Lift H350 Combo Use crane capable of supporting the equipment's size and weight. See page 202 or measure and weigh equipment before lifting. NOTICE: Do not lift tractor with installed attachment. t28om089h.eps t28om090h.eps...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 81 Lift Reel Carrier Use crane capable of supporting the equipment's size and weight. See page 187 or measure and weigh equipment before lifting. NOTICE: • Do not lift reel carrier with reel installed. •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 82 Tie Down Tie Down Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 Points Tiedown points are identified by tiedown decals. Securing to trailer at other points is unsafe and can damage machinery.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 83 Haul Haul Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 To help avoid injury: • Read trailer operator’s manual before loading or transporting your machine. Incorrectly loaded machine can slip or cause trailer sway.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 84 Haul Load Crushing weight. If load falls or moves it could kill or crush you. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. To help avoid injury: • Attach trailer to tow vehicle before loading or unloading.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 85 Haul Unload Crushing weight. If load falls or moves it could kill or crush you. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. To help avoid injury: • Attach trailer to tow vehicle before loading or unloading.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Transport - 86 Retrieve Retrieve Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 Under normal conditions, tractor should not be towed. If tractor becomes disabled and retrieval is necessary: •...
To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 89 Set Up Prepare Backhoe 1. Disengage seat lock (shown) and rotate seat out of stowed position. 2. Raise boom to release tension on stow lock. 3. Release stow lock by pushing handle forward. For more information about stow...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 90 Operate Operate Breathing crystalline silica dust may cause lung disease. Cutting, drilling, or working materials such as concrete, sand, or rock containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust. Use dust control methods or appropriate breathing protection when exposed to silica dust.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 91 Operate 4. Use boom/swing control and bucket/ dipper control to dig hole or trench. For more information about backhoe controls, see “Backhoe Console” on page 52. • Keep dipper and boom at right angles as much as possible for maximum power.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 92 Finish Job Finish Job 1. Raise stabilizers to fully engage latch. 2. Return remote throttle to low. 3. Lift boom while keeping dipper pointed at ground (shown). 4. Curl bucket closed and move dipper fully toward boom (shown).
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 93 Finish Job 7. Rotate seat into stowed position and engage seat lock (shown). 8. Drive a short distance away from work site. 9. Shut down tractor. See page 76 for proper shutdown procedures.
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To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Trench - 97 Set Up 1. If using optional trench cleaner, remove bolt installed for transport (shown). 2. Fasten and adjust seat belt. 3. Start tractor. See page 72 for start-up procedures. 4. Drive to starting point. Move in line with planned trench.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Trench - 98 Operate Operate Breathing crystalline silica dust may cause lung disease. Cutting, drilling, or working materials such as concrete, sand, or rock containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust. Use dust control methods or appropriate breathing protection when exposed to silica dust.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Trench - 99 Operate 3. Move attachment speed/direction control to desired speed. DIGGING CHAIN WILL MOVE. Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. 275-443 To help avoid injury: • Ensure parking brake is set.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Trench - 100 Finish Job 11. Operate engine at full throttle when working. NOTICE: • Do not make sharp turns. Lower boom to full depth when turning. • If an object becomes lodged in chain, move attachment speed/direction control to neutral and raise boom slightly.
To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Saw - 103 Operate Operate Breathing crystalline silica dust may cause lung disease. Cutting, drilling, or working materials such as concrete, sand, or rock containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust. Use dust control methods or appropriate breathing protection when exposed to silica dust.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Saw - 104 Finish Job 4. Move attachment speed/direction control to desired speed. SAW WILL TURN. Moving digging teeth will kill you or cut off arm or leg. Stay away. To help avoid injury: • Allow 3’ (1 m) between digging teeth and obstacle. Machine might jerk when digging starts.
Your safety is at stake. 273-475 To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Plow - 107 Setup Position Tractor IMPORTANT: If material must be at a constant depth, dig starting and target trenches. 1. Fasten and adjust seat belt. 2. Start tractor. See page 72 for start-up procedures. 3. Drive to starting point. Move in line with planned trench. See page 74 for driving procedures.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Plow - 109 Operate Operate Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. Electric shock will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. 274-049 To help avoid injury: Expose lines by hand before digging. Cutting high voltage cable can cause electrocution Read operator’s manual.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Plow - 110 Finish Job Finish Job 1. When installation is complete with vibrator running, raise plow to ground level while reducing vibrator speed. NOTICE: Do not operate vibrator when plow is out of the ground. 2. Move attachment speed/direction control to neutral.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 112 Set Up Set Up EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to STOP. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment. To help avoid injury: •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 113 Set Up Dig Target Trench 1. Select a completion point for the bore. 2. Dig a target trench (2) across the anticipated completion point. IMPORTANT: Ensure that target trench is: • deep enough for drill bit to enter slightly above the trench floor, and •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 114 Operate Operate Breathing crystalline silica dust may cause lung disease. Cutting, drilling, or working materials such as concrete, sand, or rock containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust. Use dust control methods or appropriate breathing protection when exposed to silica dust.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 115 Operate Drill Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. 270-1506, 275-197 To help avoid injury: • Keep everyone at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill string and machine. • If a person enters the danger zone, use emergency shutdown.
Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: ® • Use only the approved Ditch Witch drill string guide (p/n 118-079). • Do not straddle trench or drill string. Do not enter trench. •...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 117 Operate Add Rod If more length is needed, ask a helper to add a rod section. Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: Only access drilling attachment with hands when engine is shut down.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 118 Operate Backream After drill bit enters target trench, the bore hole may be enlarged by changing the drill bit to a reamer and pulling it back through the initial bore. NOTICE: Incorrect use may damage components and increase wear.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 119 Operate Install Product To install product, pull it through the bore after drilling or final pass of backreaming. Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: Ensure no one is in target trench or near product being installed.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 120 Operate Remove Rod If the length of rod outside the bore reaches 30’ (9 m), ask a helper to remove rod sections as needed. Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Drill - 121 Operate Reconnect Drill String 1. Start engine and set to low throttle. 2. Slowly move machine forward until attached rod section and drill string are about 1’ (30 cm) apart. 3. Have helper lightly hold attached rod section and drill string so that they are aligned.
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NOTICE: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 125 Set Up Adjust Trench Depth Blade 1. Shut down tractor and remove blade (see page 184.) 2. Remove 4 bolts (2). 3. Lift or lower blade motor to desired depth. Use the depth decal (1) as a guide.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 126 Set Up Adjust Tilt IMPORTANT: Microtrenching requires good contact between the microtrencher frame and the surface being cut. Use lift control, level control, and manual tilt to adjust microtrencher to match jobsite conditions. 1. Lower microtrencher and turn off tractor.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 127 Set Up Prepare Spoils Removal Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 To help avoid injury: Do not operate without blade cover and chutes or chute plates installed.
273-475 To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ® attachments are raised. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer about counterweighting for your equipment. Flying objects thrown by machine may strike people.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 129 Operate 3. Move attachment speed/direction control to desired speed. BLADE WILL TURN. Moving digging teeth will cause serious injury or death. Stay away. To help avoid injury: • Allow 3’ (1 m) between digging teeth and obstacle. Machine may jerk when digging starts.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 130 Operate Use Trench Cleaner Use the correct trench cleaner for your blade. Two trench cleaners are available: one for blades 1” (25 mm) or less and one for blades wider than 1” (25 mm).
RT45 Operator’s Manual Microtrenching - 131 Finish Job Finish Job 1. When trench is complete, adjust throttle to low. 2. Raise microtrencher. 3. As blade clears top of trench, move attachment speed/direction control to neutral. 4. Drive a short distance away from work site.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 134 Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets Chain and Tooth Maintenance • Always replace sprockets at the same time you replace the digging chain. Sprockets and chain are designed to work together. Replacing one without the other will cause premature wear of the new part.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 135 Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets Chain Selection These charts are meant as a guideline only. No one chain type works well in all conditions. See your Ditch ® Witch dealer for soil conditions and chain recommendations for your area. Ask for the latest Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets Parts Catalog.
European compliance kit includes lockable fuel cap A323 Backhoe IMPORTANT: A322 backhoe is not configured for the RT45 Tier 4. Equipment Description bucket and bucket teeth replace as needed to increase efficiency and keep from damaging machine...
12” (305 mm), 18” (457 mm), and 24” (610 mm) reel carrier designed to fit your Ditch Witch equipment and speed cable installation stabilize the plow for more constant depth bullet allow a larger cavity for the material being installed...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 138 Counterweighting Counterweighting Attachment Counterweight required H313 trencher one wheel weight per each 26” front tire + 200 lb (91 kg) TBS in each front tire + 400 lb (181 kg) front counterweight two wheel weights per each 29”...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 139 Complete the Job Chapter Contents Restore Jobsite ......140 •...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 140 Restore Jobsite Restore Jobsite After product is installed, return spoils to the trench with backfill blade. Backfilling 1. Position unit at end of trench, several feet from spoils. Aim tractor at outer edge of spoils.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 142 Service Precautions Service Precautions Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 To help avoid injury: • Unless otherwise instructed, all service should be performed with engine off.
Check condition Filter Change, replace, adjust, service or test Proper lubrication and maintenance protects Ditch Witch equipment from damage and failure. Service intervals listed are for minimum requirements. In extreme conditions, service machine more frequently. ® Use only genuine Ditch Witch parts, filters, approved lubricants, TJC, and approved coolants to maintain warranty.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 145 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key Engine Oil Temperature Chart Select oil based on ambient temperature range expected before next oil change.
Add or replace only with coolant meeting this specification. This coolant is available, pre-diluted, from your Ditch Witch dealer as part number 255-1053. Contact your Deutz service partner for a full list of approved coolants meeting DQC CB-14. In an emergency, non-Deutz approved, heavy duty diesel engine coolant meeting ASTM D6210 may be used.
Active errors are displayed on the electronic display panel or error lamp (flash code) CAN ® bus. If error codes are recorded, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. Diesel engines that are equipped with an exhaust after treatment system (EAT) may only be operated with...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 149 10 Hour Tractor Check Engine Oil Level While engine oil is warm, check oil level at dipstick (1) every 10 hours. Add DEO at fill (2) as necessary to keep oil level at highest line on dipstick.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 150 10 Hour Check Oil Cooler/Radiator Check oil cooler/radiator for dirt and debris. Clean with compressed air or spray wash as needed. See “Tractor” on page 162. Check Hydraulic Hoses Fluid or air pressure could pierce skin and cause injury or death.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 151 10 Hour Check Tires Inflatable Tires Check tire pressure every 10 hours. Use water- rinsable air gauge if tire ballast is used. Tire option Maximum pressure 26 x 12.00-12 8-ply bar lug 20 psi (1.4 bar) 29 x 12.50-15 8-ply bar lug...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 152 10 Hour Trencher Lube Trencher Tail Roller Remove plug, wipe zerk clean and lube every 10 hours with MPG. Lube Trencher Pivot Wipe three zerks clean and lube every 10 hours with MPG. •...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 153 10 Hour Lube Trencher Auger Bearings and Sleeve Wipe four zerks clean and lube every 10 hours with MPG every 10 hours. Check Trencher Mounting Bolts Check bolts every 10 hours. Tighten to 200 ft•lb...
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10 Hour Check Digging Chain Check teeth (1) for wear every 10 hours. Replace ® worn teeth, using Ditch Witch replacement parts and maintaining original tooth pattern. Check chain every 10 hours. Replace worn or broken chains. If sidebars (2) are bent or loose on chain pins (3), chain spacers should be used to join sidebars.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 155 10 Hour Roller Boom with Adjusting Screw With boom horizontal, measure distance from bottom of boom to chain (3). When properly adjusted, distance should be 1.5-2” (40-50 mm). Adjust tension by tightening or loosening adjustment screw (1) and jam nut (2).
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 156 10 Hour Plow Clean Feed Tube Clean feed tube every 10 hours. Oil if necessary. Check Plow Arm Pins and Bushings Check plow arm pins and bushings every 10 hours. Replace bushings at first sign of wear.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 157 10 Hour Check Plow Vibrator Oil Level Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool. Check plow vibrator oil level every 10 hours. With vibrator horizontal, oil should be halfway up sight glass (2).
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 158 10 Hour Check Bits Check bits every 10 hours. Clean and check bits for free rotation. If bits are stuck, remove and clean packed soil from retaining ring. Replace bit when tungsten cap or insert is worn. See “Replace Bits”...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 159 10 Hour Check Trencher Vacuum Hoses If using a vacuum system for spoils removal, check inside of hoses for caked spoils every 10 hours. Clean as needed.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 160 100’ (30.5 m) 100’ (30.5 m) Inspect Microtrencher Blade and Bits Remove blade cover and inspect blade and bits for wear every 100’ (30.5 m), or when performance declines. Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 161 100’ (30.5 m) To replace bits: 1. Drive out roll pin and remove old bit. 2. Install new bit into holder and drive in new roll pin. Wear Bars / Hard-Surface Material Use gauge (shown, p/n 301-1507) to check thickness of wear bars/hard-surface material on blade.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 162 50 Hour 50 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Clean oil cooler/radiator Check belt tension Lube backfill blade swing Change hydraulic filter Initial service Lube cross and bearings MPG, initial service Lube universal joints MPG, initial service...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 163 50 Hour Check Belt Tension Check belt tension every 50 hours. Belt is properly tensioned when it moves about 3/8” (10 mm) when pushed. If belt is loose, loosen alternator bolts (1) and adjust alternator. Retighten bolts.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 164 50 Hour Lube Cross and Bearings (Initial Service) Lube zerks with 2-3 shots of MPG at 50 hours initially. Repeat process every 500 hours thereafter. Lube Universal Joints (Initial Service) Lube zerks with MPG at 50 hours initially. Repeat process every 500 hours thereafter.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 165 50 Hour Lube Lift Cylinders Lube lift cylinders with MPG every 50 hours. Lube rod and barrel end of each cylinder.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 167 250 Hour 250 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine oil and filter DEO, initial and if using API CJ-4 or ACEA E6/E9 oil Tractor Change Engine Oil and Filter (Initial Service) Change oil and filter after 250 hours and every 250 hours if using oil meeting API CJ-4 or ACEA E6/E9.
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 168 500 Hour 500 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine oil and filter DEO; ONLY if using DQC III- LA oil Change fuel filters Change hydraulic filter Check differential oil Check gearbox oil Lube cross and bearings...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 169 500 Hour Change Fuel Filters Change primary (1) and secondary (2) fuel filters every 500 hours. Change Hydraulic Filter Change hydraulic filter every 500 hours. Check Differential Oil Level Check oil level at fill plug every 500 hours. Add...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 170 500 Hour Check Gearbox Oil Level Check oil level at check plug (2) every 500 hours. Add MPL at fill (1) as needed. Lube Cross and Bearings Lube zerks with 2-3 shots of MPG every 500 hours.
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Recommended freeze protection level is -34°F (-37°C). Adjust as needed. If colder temperatures are expected, consult your Ditch witch dealer or coolant supplier. IMPORTANT: See page 146 for information on approved coolants. Use pre-dilluted coolant to maintain proper freeze protection.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 173 1000 Hour Change Hydraulic Oil Change hydraulic oil every 1000 hours. To change: 1. Remove drain plug (2). 2. Drain fluid and replace plug.page 169 3. Add THF at fill (1). until fluid is at halfway point on sight glass (3).
RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 174 As Needed As Needed Location Task Notes TRACTOR Adjust parking brake Change air filter Check battery Charge battery BACKHOE Replace backhoe pins and bushings TRENCHER Replace digging chain and teeth COMBO Complete all service items for trencher and plow...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 175 As Needed Change Air Filter Change air filter when display reads 0%. To change: 1. Remove air filter cover and remove primary (1) and secondary (2) elements. 2. Wipe inside of housing and wash cover.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 176 As Needed Check Battery Check battery as needed. Keep battery clean and terminals free of corrosion. To clean: 1. Turn battery disconnect switch, if equipped, to the off position. 2. Ensure that no ignition sources are near batteries.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 177 As Needed Charge Battery Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur. Follow directions carefully. To help avoid injury: • Use a single 12V maximum source for charging. Do not connect to rapid chargers or dual batteries.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 178 As Needed Charging Procedure (Engine Off) 1. Park service vehicle close to disabled equipment but do not allow vehicles to touch. Set parking brake in both vehicles. 2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position in both vehicles, and turn off all electrical loads. Disconnect the machine controller.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 179 As Needed Backhoe Replace Pins and Bushings Replace pins (1) and bushings (2) when worn or damaged.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 180 As Needed Trencher Replace Digging Chain Visually check digging chains for wear on rollers and sidebars (2). Check pins (3) and bushing wear by measuring distance between chain pins and comparing it with a new chain. Also check digging teeth (1).
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 181 As Needed 8. Loop cable through links nearest connector pin. 9. Loosen plug on grease cylinder or turn tension bolts counterclockwise to relieve chain tension. 10. Stand clear of chain and remove lock key from connector pin.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 182 As Needed Time Augers Ensure that augers are balanced, as shown. If auger timing is off, unit will bounce from side to side even in normal digging conditions. To adjust timing: 1. Remove bolts holding augers to auger shaft and rotate either auger as needed until augers are balanced.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 183 As Needed Replace Bits Replace bits when worn or damaged. 1. Slide bit puller tool (p/n 259-002) onto groove in bit (shown). 2. Pull back on weight on bit puller tool to remove bit.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 184 As Needed Microtrencher Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool. 273-423 To help avoid injury: Do not touch hot blade and bits. Change Blade 1. Start tractor, position microtrencher slightly above ground, then shut down tractor.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 185 As Needed Bleed Level Cylinder Bleed air from level cylinder whenever the hydraulic hoses have been disconnected, or when excessive bounce is noticed. To bleed cylinder: 1. Remove blade (see page 184). 2. Start tractor.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Service - 186 As Needed...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 187 RT45 Tractor with H313 Trencher Specifications RT45 Tractor with H313 Trencher Dimensions * U.S. Metric Trench depth, maximum 63 in 1.6 m Angle of approach 20° 20° Angle of departure 17° 17° Trench width, minimum to maximum...
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12” (300-mm) pivot (except references A and B). General ® Ditch Witch model RT45 tractor, 4-wheel drive, rigid frame, hydrostatic ground drive through rubber tires, conventional 2-wheel power steering, hydrostatic attachment drive, riding tractor Operation U.S.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 189 RT45 Tractor with H313 Trencher Backfill Blade U.S. Metric Blade width 64 in 1.6 m Blade height 14 in 355 mm Lift height above ground 12 in 300 mm Blade drop below ground 8 in...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 190 RT45 Tractor with H313 Trencher Power Train Ground drive transmission: hydrostatic drive infinitely variable from zero to maximum, foot pedal and hand lever operated speed/direction control Differentials: Dana model 44 (Dana model 60 optional)
RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 191 RT45 Tractor with H313 Trencher Fluid Capacities U.S. Metric Fuel tank 13 gal 49 L Engine oil 6.4 qt 6.1 L Hydraulic reservoir 9.5 gal 36 L Hydraulic system 13 gal 49 L Engine coolant...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 192 A323 Backhoe A323 Backhoe Dimensions U.S. Metric Transport height 80.5 in 2.0 m Ground clearance 23 in 584 mm Backhoe length, stowed 60 in 1.5 m Digging depth, maximum 72 in 1.8 m Digging depth, 2’ (0.6 m) flat bottom 66 in 1.7 m...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 193 A323 Backhoe Stabilizer spread, operating 104 in 2.6 m Leveling angle 10° 10° General U.S. Metric Bucket Width 12 in 305 mm Capacity 1.1 ft 0.03 m Backhoe weight with bucket 1125 lb 511 kg Lift capacity, boom over end and swing arc, SAE* @ 48”...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 194 H314 Trencher H314 Trencher Dimensions * U.S. Metric Trench depth, maximum 52 in 1.3 m Angle of departure 35° 35° Trench width, minimum to maximum Center 6-12 in 150-305 mm Offset 6-8 in 150-200 mm Boom travel down 55°...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 195 H314 Trencher Transport height 86 in 2.2 m Headshaft overhang 24.9 in 630 mm Soil discharge reach short auger 17 in 430 mm long auger 30 in 760 mm * Dimensions are based on shortest roller boom, 26 X 12.00-12 standard tire and wheel, and 12” (300- mm) pivot (except reference A).
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 196 H350 Combo H350 Combo Trencher Dimensions * U.S. Metric Trench depth, maximum 42 in 1.1 m Angle of departure 33° 33° Trench width, minimum to maximum 6-8 in 150-200 mm Boom travel down 55°...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 197 H350 Combo Plow Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of departure, transport, 18” (457-mm) blade 17° 17° Cover depth, maximum* 24 in 610 mm Plow swing angle, left 30° 30° Plow swing angle, right 20° 20°...
RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 198 H342 Saw H342 Saw Dimensions U.S. Metric Trench depth, maximum 18 in 455 mm Angle of approach 18° 18° Angle of departure 14° 14° Transport height, attachment 79 in 2.0 m Overall length, full depth 177 in 4.5 m...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 199 H342 Saw Ground clearance at wheel, maximum 11.8 in 300 mm Centerline trench to outside edge of unit Left 32 in 815 mm Right 32 in 815 mm Attachment width 23 in 580 mm...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 200 H331 Plow H331 Plow Dimensions U.S. Metric Cover depth, feed blade, maximum 24 in 610 mm Feed tube inside width, maximum 1 in 25 mm Feed tube bend ratio 4:1 or 10:1 4:1 or 10:1...
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Plow blades are available in 12” (305-mm), 18” (460-mm), and 24” (610-mm) blade depths. Select correct blade for the job: blades with feed tubes or pull blades. Feed tube blades are provided with 4:1 or 10:1 ® bend ratios. Check with your Ditch Witch dealer for special blade requirements.
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 202 MT12 MicroTrencher MT12 MicroTrencher Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of departure 19° 19° Trench depth, 1-in (25-mm) increments 6.5-12.5 in 165-318 mm Blade diameter 34 in 864 mm Attachment height, transport 68 in 1.72 m...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 203 MT12 MicroTrencher Spoils chute extension (same both sides) 8.5 in 216 mm Centerline of unit to outside left tire (28x9 solid tires) 28.5 in 725 mm Centerline of unit to end of traverse frame 29.2 in...
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RT45 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 204 Declaration of Conformity Information Declaration of Conformity Information Countries in the European Union should have received a Declaration of Conformity (DOC) with this machine similar to the example below. The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Return damaged parts to dealer for inspection and warranty consideration if in warranty time frame. Order genuine Ditch Witch replacement or repair parts from your authorized Ditch Witch dealer. Use of another manufacturer's parts may void warranty consideration.
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Subject to the limitation and exclusions herein, free replacement parts will be provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for any Ditch Witch equipment or parts manufactured by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) that fail due to a defect in material or workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use.
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