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ASTEC TF300B Operator's Manual

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TF300B Trencher
Operator's Manual
AU103168
C7B

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  • Page 1 TF300B Trencher Operator’s Manual AU103168...
  • Page 2 • Learns and practices safe use of machine controls in a safe, clear area before operating this machine on a job site. It is your responsibility to observe pertinent laws and regulations and follow Astec instructions on machine operation and maintenance. © 2005 Astec Underground...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    LUBRICATION ......27 TF300B TRENCHER ......1 GENERAL SAFETY BEFORE SERVICING MACHINE .
  • Page 4 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 5: To The Owner

    Make sure this Astec Trencher. Refer to the Index at the end of this manual is complete and in good condition. Contact your manual for locating specific items about your machine.

  • Page 6: Right, Left, Front And Rear Of Machine

    TO THE OWNER RIGHT, LEFT, FRONT AND REAR OF MACHINE Right-hand and left-hand, when used in this manual, indicate the right and left sides of the machine as seen from the operators seat facing the machine engine and operating the controls. TRENCHER OPERATION RIGHT SIDE REAR...

  • Page 7: Identification Numbers

    Make a record of the numbers. Keep the record in a safe place. If the machine is stolen, report the numbers to your local law enforcement agency. TF300B Trencher MACHINE MODEL NUMBER: 1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (P.I.N.) ________________________________________________________ 2.

  • Page 8: Machine Components

    IDENTIFICATION NUMBER MACHINE COMPONENTS PIC00119 1. SEAT 4. TRENCHER RESTRAINT BAR 7. BACKFILL BLADE 2. HAND RAIL 5. TRENCHER CHAIN 3. ENGINE HOOD 6. TRACK AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 9: Safety/Decals/Hand Signals

    Caution is YELLOW. machine before you operate or service the machine. See your Astec dealer if you have any questions. ISO two panel pictorial symbol decals are shown in both READ THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY and make sure you...

  • Page 10: Before Operations

    SAFETY BEFORE OPERATIONS Before beginning any trenching, drilling or other construction work it is your responsibility to be aware of all such utility lines buried in the area of • Avoid loose fitting clothing, loose or uncovered long your project and to avoid them. hair, jewelry and loose personal articles.

  • Page 11: Failure In Operation

    SAFETY FAILURE IN OPERATION • Stay away from hazardous areas such as ditches, overhangs, etc. Walk around the work area before you • In the event of poor performance or machine failure, start and look for hazards. stop the machine immediately and report the matter. •...

  • Page 12: Maintenance

    The • When you replace parts on your machine, always use fluids, lubricants, paints, adhesives, coolants, etc., Astec parts. See your dealer. used with your machine can be hazardous. • If you must service the machine with an attachment •...

  • Page 13: Fire Or Explosion Prevention

    SAFETY • Before you service your machine, check the MSDS for • Check for fuel, oil, and hydraulic fluid leaks. Replace each fluid, lubricant, etc., used in this machine. This worn or damaged hoses or lines. After repairs are information indicates what the risks are and how to made, clean the machine before you operate.

  • Page 14: Safety Decals

    Replace any missing or damaged safety decal and keep all safety decals clean. See your Astec dealer for new safety decals. • Make sure that you read all safety and instruction decals. Check these decals every day before you start.
  • Page 15 SAFETY BD01H260 BD01H259 H438908 H438910 H438909 AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 16: Hand Signals

    SAFETY HAND SIGNALS It is recommended that you and the flagman on the job use hand signals for communications. Before you start, make sure that you both understand the signals that will be used. PDE0003A PDE0004A PDE0003 COME TO ME GO THIS FAR MOVE AWAY FROM ME PDE0005A...

  • Page 17: Instruments And Controls

    INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS RT160024 RIGHT STEERING BRAKE LEVER 1. KEY SWITCH 7. TRENCHER BOOM LEVER 2. THROTTLE 8. LEFT STEERING BRAKE LEVER Pull the lever (4) REARWARD to disengage power to the 3. FORWARD/REVERSE LEVER 9. TRENCHER CLUTCH LEVER right track.

  • Page 18: Trencher Clutch Levr

    INSTRUMENTS/CONTROLS TRENCHER CLUTCH LEVR NEUTRAL INDICATOR LAMP This lever (9) actuates the digging chain and spoil auger. This lamp (10) will illuminate when the key switch is ON Push the lever to the left to actuate the digging chain and and the ground drive control and the digging chain clutch spoil auger.

  • Page 19: Seat Belt

    INSTRUMENTS/CONTROLS SEAT BELT The illustrations that follow show the correct NOTE: procedure to fasten and release the belt. B901048 When the machine is equipped with a ROPS, wear the Seat Belt during machine operation. BP98J021 1. Fasten the belt end into the left-hand buckle. You are protected by the ROPS WARNING: system (Roll Over Protective Structure).
  • Page 20 INSTRUMENTS/CONTROLS NOTES AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 21: Operating Instructions

    7. See the Maintenance Chart in this manual and do all Your TF300B has an air-cooled gasoline powered engine. the 10 hour items. Air-cooled engines run hotter than standard automotive engines. The following precautions must be followed...

  • Page 22: Operating In Cold Weather

    The following procedure should be followed when starting battery has only 18 percent of the power remaining. the engine on your TF300B: 2. If you add water to the battery and the temperature 1. Check oil level (See Checking Engine Oil in this is below 0°C (32°F), make sure you charge the...

  • Page 23: Engine Speed

    OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 10. After the engine starts, run the engine at half throttle 2. Remove the seat and seat plate from the machine. for approximately 5 minutes, adjusting the choke control as the engine temperature increases. 11. After the engine has warmed, check that the choke control is completely pushed in.

  • Page 24: Parking And Stopping The Engine

    OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS PARKING AND STOPPING THE MACHINE OPERATION ENGINE The Seat Interlock System REQUIRES the operator to be seated in the operator’s seat when starting and operating Jumping on or off the WARNING: this machine. machine can cause an injury. Always face If the operator DOES NOT remain seated when NOTE: the machine, use the hand rails and steps,...

  • Page 25: Step And Hand Rail

    OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS STEP AND HAND RAIL Backfill Operating Position Sit on the operator’s seat facing the Backfill Blade of the machine. Operate the controls for the machine and backfill blade in this position. See Backfill Blade Controls in this manual. PIC00120 1.

  • Page 26: Trencher Boom Types

    Read the following section on how to select the correct combination of parts for your machine. Then, see your Astec dealer and ask for complete information on trencher parts. BD01F334...

  • Page 27: Trencher Chain And Teeth

    LONGER LOAD and tooth life. SHORTER B2228A88 RB97F067 Additional digging teeth combinations may be available to meet particular soil conditions. See your Astec dealer NOTE: for additional information. AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 28 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE YOU OPERATE TRANSPORT POSITION Be careful when working near the WARNING: side of a trench. Serious injury or death can result if the walls of the trench fall. OPERATING POSITION Make sure all people are clear of the WARNING: digging chain while the digging chain is rotating.

  • Page 29: Backfill Blade Operation

    OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Cutting A Curved Trench 19. Any steering must be gradual. Actuate the Steering Brake Levers as necessary to steer the machine. You can cut a gradual curve by pulling the Steering Brake Do not make sharp turns with the boom in the NOTE: Lever about half way in the REARWARD position to ground.

  • Page 30: Transporting The Machine Ona Trailer

    OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 2. See Instrument Panel Controls in this manual. Make You must know the rules or laws for safety that are used sure the Speed Creep Control is fully CLOSED (turned in each area that you will be in. Make sure that your truck clockwise).

  • Page 31: Lubrication

    Dispose of the gauge in a responsible manner upon replacement PIC00056 Before you service the machine, put a Do Not Operate tag on the control panel. This tag, Astec part number AU103157 is available from your dealer. The Do Not Operate tag is included with your machine. BD01F327...

  • Page 32: Capacities And Lubricant Specifications

    Type of Fuel ......REGULAR LEAD FREE Gasoline (with minimum average octane rating of 85 or higher) ENGINE CRANKCASE Capacity ..........................1.9 L (2.0 U.S. Qts.) Type of Oil ................Astec SAE 30 (see Engine Lubrication in this manual) HYDRAULIC SYSTEM Reservoir Capacity ......................26.5 L (7.0 U.S. Gal.) Type of Fluid over 5°C (40°F) ..................

  • Page 33: Lubrication/Maintenance Chart

    LUBRICATION LUBRICATION/MAINTENANCE CHART FREQUENCY IN HOURS SERVICE POINTS Trencher Digging Chain Tension Trencher Clutch (See Note 1) Engine Oil Level (See Note 4) Air Cleaner (See Note 1) Hydraulic Reservoir Oil 1000 Trencher Shaft (See Note 2) Trencher Boom Mount (See Note 2) Trencher Clutch Yoke (See Note 2) Trencher Sheave (See Note 2) Steering Brake Lever (See Note 2)

  • Page 34: Access Doors And Covers

    LUBRICATION ACCESS DOORS AND COVERS HOOD BD01C051 Unlatch hood and raise until support rod locks into place. BD01F326 One latch on each side of hood. For increased service access the hood may be positioned over center onto the front dirt guard. Push forward slightly on the hood and push the latch toward the left side of the slot (2), then continue to push the hood over center.
  • Page 35 LUBRICATION BATTERY AND FUEL TANK BD01C049 To gain access to the battery, raise the seat housing a few inches, then pull rearward. BD01C056 1. FUEL FILL TRENCHER DRIVE CHAIN B4032990 TRENCHER DRIVE CHAIN COVER Ensure that all doors and covers are IMPORTANT: closed and latched before operation.

  • Page 36: Lubrication Points

    LUBRICATION LUBRICATION BASIC MACHINE B4033790 3. TRENCHER SHEAVE BC01C152 1. TRENCHER BOOM MOUNT 4. TRENCHER CLUTCH YOKE 2. TRENCHER SHAFT 5. STEERING BRAKE LEVER 3. TRENCHER SHEAVE 6. TRENCHER DRIVE CHAIN LUBRICATION POINTS B4032290 4. TRENCHER BOOM MOUNT FITTING 10 Hours B4032190 5.

  • Page 37: Fluid Levels

    LUBRICATION FLUID LEVELS 250 Hours BASIC MACHINE B4033690 3. TRANSMISSION OIL LEVEL BC01C152 1. GEAR REDUCTION LEVEL 3. TRANSMISSION OIL LEVEL 2. BATTERY LEVEL 10 Hours BD01F329 HYDRAULIC OIL LEVEL BACKFILL BLADE - 3 Fittings 10 Hours BD01F324 ENGINE OIL LEVEL 50 Hours BD01F315 2.

  • Page 38: Engine Lubrication

    5°C (40°F). If Astec Multi-Viscosity is not available, for cold weather operation, Astec Single Grade Engine Oil can be used. If Astec engine oil is not available, use only oil meeting API engine oil service category SF or SG.
  • Page 39 LUBRICATION Engine Oil Level DIPSTICK OIL FILL CAP IN COVER Full FILTER OIL DRAIN 1/2 - 3/4 VALVE TURN BD01F324 Check the engine oil every 10 hours of operation NOTE: RT160044 or once every day, whichever occurs first. 1. Park the machine on a level surface and stop the engine.

  • Page 40: Air Filtering System

    Check and Clean Engine Oil Cooler Maintenance 1. Park the machine on a level surface and stop the The TF300B V-Twin engine is equipped with an external engine. Remove the key. engine oil cooler. The cooler is mounted in front of the engine blower intake.

  • Page 41: Fuel System

    LUBRICATION Cleaning the Element Lead-Free Gasoline Fuel Use lead-free gasoline with a minimum average octane Check the dirty element for damage. Replace the element rating of 85 or higher. as necessary. Do not use gasoline that contains more than 10% NOTE: ethanol.

  • Page 42: Hydraulic Oil System

    LUBRICATION BD01C055 5. Remove the in-line fuel filter element clamps. BD01F329 Remove old filter from fuel lines and install new filter. Inspect fuel lines during replacement. Install clamps. 6. Inspect routing of fuel lines to prevent rubbing on any moving components or sharp objects. HYDRAULIC OIL SYSTEM Fluid under pressure can pierce WARNING:...
  • Page 43 LUBRICATION Hydraulic Oil Change and Hydraulic 4. Use a strap wrench to remove the old hydraulic filter (1). Turn the filter counterclockwise to remove. Reservoir Suction Screen Cleaning Discard the filter in a proper manner. Consult local oil product disposition regulations. It may be necessary to loosen the front battery bolt to remove filter.

  • Page 44: Transmission And Gear Reduction Housing

    LUBRICATION TRANSMISSION AND GEAR Transmission Oil Change REDUCTION HOUSING The transmission oil should be changed every 1,000 hours of operation. Transmission Oil Level The transmission oil level should be checked every 250 hours of operation. B4040990 B4033690 Check the transmission oil level with the engine stopped, key removed and the machine parked on a level surface.

  • Page 45: Trencher Drive Chain Lubrication

    LUBRICATION Gear Reduction Housing Oil Change TRENCHER DRIVE CHAIN LUBRICATION B4034690 B40330909 B4040890 1. Make sure the gear reduction housing oil is a operating temperature. B4022588 1. Park the machine on a level surface, stop the engine 2. Park the machine on a level surface, stop the engine and remove the key.
  • Page 46 LUBRICATION NOTES AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 47: Adjustment/Maintenance

    ADJUSTMENT/MAINTENANCE TRENCHER DRIVE BELT TENSION Rotating belts. Contact with WARNING: rotating belts can cause serious injury or death. Always stop the engine and remove the key before working in this area. Check the trencher drive belt tension every 50 hours of operation.

  • Page 48: Trencher Drive Chain Tension

    ADJUSTMENT/MAINTENANCE The adjustable clutch of the trencher protects the 2. Move the Steering Brake Levers all the way trencher drive components. When correctly adjusted, the REARWARD to lock the brakes. clutch will slip just enough to stall the engine if the digging chain becomes jammed.

  • Page 49: Trencher Digging Chain Tension

    ADJUSTMENT/MAINTENANCE TRENCHER DIGGING CHAIN TENSION Rotating chains. Contact with WARNING: rotating chains can cause serious injury or death. Always keep the cover in place while you operate the machine. Stop the engine and remove the key before working in this area. Check the tension of the digging chain frequently.

  • Page 50: Track Adjustments

    ADJUSTMENT/MAINTENANCE TRACK ADJUSTMENTS Steel Track Machine Only make track tension adjustment when track is NOTE: too loose or too tight. Track tension must always be correct. Check the track tension every 50 hours of operation. To adjust track, do the following: 25 mm (1 inch) 1.
  • Page 51 ADJUSTMENT/MAINTENANCE 7. When the track tension is correct tighten the grease fitting. If grease does not start to drain, SLOWLY rotate NOTE: the track The grease in the hydraulic track WARNING: tensioner is pressurized. NEVER loosen grease valve more than one turn. NEVER remove the grease fitting.

  • Page 52: Roll-Over Protection Structure

    ROPS mounting hardware, use only the the track adjusting cylinder. As the grease flows replacement parts shown in the Astec parts from the track adjusting cylinder the deflection will catalog for this machine.

  • Page 53: Seat Belt

    It is recommended that you have a fire extinguisher on your machine. The fire extinguisher of the type shown is available from your dealer and can be installed on the machine. Contact your Astec Dealer for proper installation. BS01H293 AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 54 This dry chemical fire extinguisher has a 5 pound capacity and is approved for Class A, B and C type fires. The operating temperature is from -54 to 49°C (-65 to 120°F). See your Astec dealer for the proper type and NOTE: installation of fire extinguisher.

  • Page 55: Electrical

    2. Use baking soda or ammonia and flush the outside of Do not use a steam cleaner or cleaning solvent to clean the battery with water. If you do not have Astec the alternator. Battery Saver, use other special cleaners to prevent corrosion on the battery terminals.

  • Page 56: Overload Protection

    ELECTRICAL OVERLOAD PROTECTION A 30 ampere fuse protects the electrical system from a circuit overload. It is located in the engine compartment near the relay panel. If there is a problem in the electrical system, check the 30 ampere fuse. Replace as needed. SEAT INTERLOCK SYSTEM Your Trencher may be equipped with a SEAT INTERLOCK SYSTEM which requires the operator to be seated in the...

  • Page 57: Machine Storage

    7. Lubricate the machine at all grease fittings. 6. Drain the fuel tank. Engines stored over 30 days 8. Use petroleum base solvent to remove the Astec Rust need special attention. To prevent gum from and Corrosion Preventative from the hydraulic forming in fuel system or on essential carburetor cylinder rods and control valve spools.
  • Page 58 MACHINE STORAGE NOTES AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 59: Specifications

    SPECIFICATIONS Boom Identification SPROCKET BOOM, ONE SPROCKET BOOM LENGTH SPROCKET BOOM, TWO SPROCKETS BOOM LENGTH CHANNEL BOOM, TWO SPROCKETS BOOM LENGTH RB97F026 Boom Length Boom Chain Maximum Dig Maximum Dig in Inches Part No. Pitch Depth in Inches Width in Inches SPROCKET BOOM - One Sprocket, 164 and 165 Digging Chain 28.6 H560565...

  • Page 60: Engine Data

    K. Tread Width ......... 787.4 mm (31 inch) Routine Maintenance Parts L. Centerline - Trench to Outside of Machine (Purchase from your Astec Dealer) ..........520.7 mm (20-1/2 in.) Oil Filter ............416409A1 M. Height - Backfill Blade ....... 406 mm (16 in.) Air Intake Precleaner ........
  • Page 61 SPECIFICATIONS TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS - DECIMAL HARDWARE Use the torques in this chart when special torques are not given. Grade 8 Bolts, Nuts, and Studs These torques apply to fasteners with both UNC and UNF threads as received from suppliers dry, or when lubricated with engine oil.
  • Page 62 SPECIFICATIONS TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS - METRIC HARDWARE Use the following torques when specifications are not given. Grade 10.9 Bolts, Nuts, and Studs These values apply to fasteners with both coarse and fine threads as received from supplier, plated or unplated, or when 10.9 lubricated with engine oil.
  • Page 63 SPECIFICATIONS TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS - STEEL HYDRAULIC FITTINGS 37 Degree Flare Fitting Nom. SAE Dash Size Tube OD/Hose ID Thread Size Newton metres Pound-Inches 5/16 - 24 8 to 9 72 to 84 3/8 - 24 11 to 12 96 to 108 6.4 mm (1/4 inch) 7/16 - 20 14 to 16...
  • Page 64 SPECIFICATIONS Split Flange Mounting Bolts Size Newton metres Pound-Inches 5/16-18 20 to 27 180 to 240 3/8-16 27 to 34 240 to 300 7/16-14 47 to 61 420 to 540 Pound-Feet 1/2-13 74 to 88 55 to 65 5/8-11 190 to 203 140 to 150 O-Ring Boss End Fitting or Lock Nut...
  • Page 65 SPECIFICATIONS Pipe fittings Nom. SAE Dash Size Thread Size TFFT (Turns For Finger Tight) 1/8 - 27 2.0 - 3.0 1/8 - 27 2.0 - 3.0 1/8 - 27 2.0 - 3.0 1/8 - 27 2.0 - 3.0 1/4 - 18 1.5 - 3.0 3/8 - 18 2.0 - 3.0...
  • Page 66 SPECIFICATIONS NOTES AU103168 C7B...

  • Page 67: Index

    INDEX Access Covers ............30 Lubrication - Maintenance Chart ........ 29 After Delivery Check ...........1 Lubrication Points ............. 32 Air Filter Cleaning ............. 37 Air Filter Service ............36 Machine Components ..........4 Air Filter Service Specifications ........36 Machine Maintenance Safety ........8 Air Filter System ............
  • Page 68 INDEX AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 69 AFTER DELIVERY CHECK AFTER DELIVERY CHECK After First 100 Hours of Operation of New Machine Date of Check________________Hourmeter Reading__________________________________________ hours MACHINE: Product Identification Number ________________________________________________________ OWNER: Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________ DEALER:Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________ AXLES LUBRICATION Check axle oil levels. Lubricate all pivot points.
  • Page 70 AFTER DELIVERY CHECK NOTES AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 71 AFTER DELIVERY CHECK AFTER DELIVERY CHECK After First 100 Hours of Operation of New Machine Date of Check________________Hourmeter Reading__________________________________________ hours MACHINE: Product Identification Number ________________________________________________________ OWNER: Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________ DEALER:Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________ AXLES LUBRICATION Check axle oil levels. Lubricate all pivot points.
  • Page 72 AFTER DELIVERY CHECK NOTES AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 73 State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm. Astec reserves the right to make improvements in design or changes in specifications at any time without incurring any obligation to install them on units previously sold. AU103168 C7B...
  • Page 74 AFTER DELIVERY CHECK NOTES AU103168 C7B...

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