RT105M Operator’s Manual Overview - 2 Serial Number Location Serial Number Location Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. RT105 (1) and engine serial numbers (2) are located as shown. Date of manufacture Date of purchase RT105 serial number...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Overview - 3 Intended Use Intended Use The RT105 is a riding trencher designed to install buried service lines of various sizes using a variety of ® Ditch Witch attachments. Attachment Max. trench width Max. trench depth* BH120 backhoe 24”...
RT105M 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.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Overview - 6 About This Manual...
RT105MOperator’s Manual Foreword - 7 Foreword This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides safety information and operation ® instructions to help you use and maintain your Ditch Witch equipment. Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the equipment at all times for future reference. If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Foreword - 8 RT105M Operator’s Manual Issue number 2.0/OM-07/17 Part number 053-2943 Copyright 2016, 2017 by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. , Ditch Witch, CMW, and Roto Witch, are registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
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RT105M 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Contents - 10 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 of wear items, and basic maintenance Specifications machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 12 Guidelines Guidelines When you see this safety alert sign, carefully read and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT STAKE. Read this entire section before using your equipment. Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment: •...
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 18 Machine Safety Alerts Machine Safety Alerts Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool or wear gloves. 275-355 (2-P), 273-423 (2-P) Rollover could kill or crush. Wear seat belt. 275-303 Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 19 Machine Safety Alerts Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475 Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-318 Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be injured or killed.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 20 Attachment Safety Alerts Attachment Safety Alerts BH120 ‘ Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away. 275-184, 273-437, Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Stay away. 275-326, 701-326...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 21 Attachment Safety Alerts CT100M Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-318 Moving digging teeth can kill. Trench cave-in can 6ft/2m cause you to fall. Stay away. 275-097, 270-6900 DANGER stripe decal. See Parts Manual for replacement part...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 22 Attachment Safety Alerts DT100M Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-318 Moving digging teeth can kill. Trench cave-in can 6ft/2m cause you to fall. Stay away. 275-097, 270-6900 DANGER stripe decal. See Parts Manual for replacement part numbers.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Safety - 23 Attachment Safety Alerts RWIII/RWIV Turning shaft will kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away. 275-197...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 26 Center Console Center Console 1. Auxiliary outlet 4. Steering column tilt control 2. Ground drive foot control 5. Ground drive direction/attachment direction/ speed control 3. Brake pedal Item Description Notes 1. Auxiliary outlet Provides power for other Power output is 12V, 10A.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 27 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Ground drive foot To move tractor, push pedal To function, ground drive direction control down. control must be in forward or reverse. See “Ground drive/attachment To increase speed in either direction/speed control”...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 28 Center Console Item Description Notes 5. Ground drive/ Performs multiple functions Must be in forward or reverse position attachment direction/ determined by the gearbox for ground drive foot control to speed control shift control. See page 43.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 29 Right Console Right Console 1. Horn button 7. Rear steer adjustment switch* 2. Ignition switch 8. Ground drive speed hand control 3. Trencher lift control 9. Frame tilt control* 4. Trench cleaner lift control* 10.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 30 Right Console Item Description Notes 2. Ignition switch To start engine, insert key and turn clockwise. To stop engine, turn counterclockwise. c00ic137w.eps 3. Trencher lift control To lower, press forward. To raise, press back.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 31 Right Console Item Description Notes 6. Rear steer mode To engage rear steer, press selector switch left. To center wheels, press right. c00ic146w.eps 7. Rear steer adjustment To move rear wheels left, NOTICE: Visually verify wheel switch press and hold left.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 32 Right Console Item Description Notes 10. Backfill blade control • To lower, move forward. • To raise, move backward. • To tilt right side down, move right. • To tilt left side down, move left.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 34 Graphic Display Item Description Notes 4. Gearbox indicator Indicates whether gearbox is IMPORTANT: in high or low. • Gearbox must be in high to drive. • Gearbox must be in low to dig. •...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 35 Graphic Display Gauges and Indicators 1. Hydraulic fluid filter indicator 7. Aftertreatment service indicator 2. Transmission oil temperature indicator 8. High exhaust temperature indicator 3. Engine caution/stop indicator 9. Voltmeter display 4. Fuel gauge 10.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 36 Graphic Display Item Description Notes 2. Transmission oil Lights when transmission oil temperature indicator temperature is too high. 3. Engine caution/stop Lights yellow when engine indicator needs attention. Lights red when operator needs to stop engine.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 37 Graphic Display Item Description Notes 12. Engine oil pressure Displays engine oil pressure. Minimum pressure for warm engine at indicator/numeric full throttle is 32 psi (2.21 bar). display...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 39 Graphic Display Main Menu t48om058w.eps 1. System settings key 5. User settings key 2. Exhaust cleaning activation key 6. Return key 3. Machine diagnostics code display key 7. Air filter restriction indicator 4. Brightness control display key Press the center soft key to display the main menu screen, which has icons for other functions.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 40 Graphic Display Item Description Notes 4. Brightness control Press to change the Minimum brightness is 10%. display key brightness of the display Maximum brightness is 100%. screen. 5. User settings key Press to customize settings.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 41 Graphic Display Diagnostic Messages Diagnostic Message: 3 of Gearbox oil temperature; Short circuit to ground SPN: 523618 FMI: 4 DID: t48om048w.eps 1. Hide/Recall key 3. Next error message key 2. Diagnostics error message information display 4.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 42 Graphic Display Display Pop-Up Messages Machine display will automatically display pop-up messages for start interlock and exhaust cleaning systems when needed. Display screen will return to normal once conditions are met. Start Interlock For machine to start, operator must be in seat and ground drive direction control must be in neutral. If one or more of these conditions is not met, a pop-up message will appear with applicable information about which condition is not met.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 43 Left Console Left Console 1. Gearbox shift control 3. Throttle 2. Axle lock switch 4. Parking brake switch Item Description Notes 1. Gearbox shift control To put gearbox in low to dig, IMPORTANT: To shift gearbox, brake press left.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 44 Left Console Item Description Notes 3. Throttle To increase speed, move forward. To decrease speed, pull back. 4. Parking brake indicator To set parking brake, press left. To release parking brake, press right. c00ic147w.eps...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 45 Upper Console Upper Console t50om004w.eps 1. Running light switch* 3. Work light switch* 2. Hazard light switch* *Optional Item Description Notes 1. Running light switch To turn on, press top. Clear lights used to help make the machine more visible.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 46 Upper Console Item Description Notes 2. Hazard light switch To turn on, press top. Flashing amber lights used to help make the machine more visible. To turn off, press bottom. c00ic235w.eps 3. Work light switch To turn on, press top.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 47 Seat Controls Seat Controls Standard Seat t48om006w.eps 1. Seat belt 3. Slide control 2. Pivot control Item Description Notes 1. Seat belt To fasten, insert latch into buckle. Adjust until seat belt is low and tight.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 48 Seat Controls Suspension Seat (Optional)* t50om007w.eps 1. Seat belt 3. Suspension control 2. Pivot control 4. Slide control Item Description Notes 1. Seat belt To fasten, insert latch into buckle. Adjust until seat belt is low and tight.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 49 Seat Controls Item Description Notes 4. Slide control To slide seat forward or backward, pull, then adjust seat. To lock seat in place, release.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 50 Cab Controls (Optional) Cab Controls (Optional) t50om001w.eps 1. Air conditioner fan speed dial 5. Hazard light switch 2. Air conditioner temperature dial 6. Work light switch* 3. Air conditioner on/off switch 7. Front wiper switch 4.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 51 Cab Controls (Optional) Item Description Notes 2. Air conditioner To adjust air temperature, temperature dial turn dial. To make air colder, turn counterclockwise. To make air warmer, turn clockwise. c00ic231w.eps 3. Air conditioner on/off...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 52 Cab Controls (Optional) Item Description Notes 6. Work light switch To turn on, press top. Work light kit may be added to assist in operation. See “Optional To turn off, press bottom. Equipment” on page 116.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 53 Backhoe Console Backhoe Console t48om057w.eps 1. Boom/Swing control 8. Stow lock control 2. Remote throttle enable switch 9. Bucket/Dipper control 3. Remote throttle control 10. Right stabilizer control 4. Work light switch* 11. Remote ground drive control 5.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 54 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 1. Boom/Swing control To swing boom left, move left. Control can perform more than one action at a time. By “feathering” the To swing boom right, move control, operator can combine right.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 55 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 5. Swing lock pin To lock: NOTICE: • Engage stow lock. See • Always use stow lock and install “Stow lock control” on swing lock pin during transport. page 56.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 56 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 8. Stow lock control To lock: NOTICE: Always use stow lock and install swing lock pin during transport. • Raise boom fully. • Pull stow lock handle. • Lower boom slightly to engage lock.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Controls - 57 Backhoe Console Item Description Notes 11. Remote ground drive To move tractor forward, NOTICE: control push. • This control is disabled if tractor To move tractor backward, seat is occupied. pull. • Tractor must be in low speed and...
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RT105M 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 114 5.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 63 Leaving Jobsite Leaving Jobsite 1. Backfill if necessary. See page 118. 2. Rinse equipment. See page 118. 3. Stow tools. See page 118. 4. Haul equipment from jobsite. See page 82.
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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 •...
RT105M 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.
RT105M 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Prepare - 70 Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Check Supplies • fuel • keys • personal protective equipment, such as hard hat and safety glasses Prepare Equipment Fluid Levels • fuel •...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Prepare - 71 Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Assemble Accessories Fire Extinguisher If required, mount a fire extinguisher near the power unit but away from possible points of ignition where shown. The fire extinguisher should always be classified for both oil and electric fires.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drive - 74 Start Unit Start Unit Before operating tractor, read engine manufacturer’s starting and operating instructions. 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: Wear hard hat, safety glasses, and other protective equipment required by job.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drive - 76 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drive - 77 Shut Down Shut Down 1. When job is complete, drive unit to level ground. 2. Move ground drive control to neutral. 3. Set parking brake and verify parking brake indicator is on. 4. Lower all attachments to ground.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 80 Lift Lift Crushing weight. If load falls or moves it could kill or crush you. Stay away. Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 81 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 82 Haul Traversing Trencher Lower trencher to trailer deck and chain at attachment frame. Ensure chains are tight before transporting. IMPORTANT: If trencher is equipped with a trench cleaner, ensure that trench cleaner shoe is fully raised and extra bolt (found in operator’s manual compartment)
RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 83 Haul Procedure Inspect Trailer 1. Check hitch for wear and cracks. Lubricate if needed. 2. Check battery for 12V charge. 3. Inspect lights for cleanliness and correct operation. Inspect reflectors and replace if needed.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 84 Haul 10. Lower attachments to trailer bed and turn tractor off. See page 77 for proper shutdown procedures. 11. Attach chains to tractor and attachments where tiedown decals are located. See page 81. Unload Crushing weight.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 85 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 unit becomes disabled and retrieval is necessary: •...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Transport - 86 Retrieve...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 88 Set Up Set Up EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to STOP. Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ®...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 89 Set Up 5. Ensure ground drive direction control is in neutral. 6. Move attachment direction/speed control to neutral position. 7. Move ground drive speed hand control to neutral position. 8. Lower rear attachment to 6” (150 mm) above ground.
RT105M 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 91 Operate 5. Use boom/swing control and bucket/ dipper control to dig hole or trench. For more information about backhoe controls, see “Backhoe Console” on page 53. • Keep dipper and boom at right angles as much as possible for maximum power.Keep bucket in line with dipper...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 92 Finish Job Finish Job 1. Raise stabilizers fully to 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Backhoe - 93 Finish Job 8. Rotate seat into stowed position and engage seat lock (shown). 9. Drive a short distance away from work site. 10. Shut down tractor. See page 77 for proper shutdown procedures. Backhoe_Seat_32016.eps...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Trench - 96 Set Up Set Up EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to STOP. Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: Use attachments or counterweights to make front and rear loads balance when all ®...
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RT105M 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 74 for start-up procedures. 4. Drive to starting point. Move in line with planned trench.
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RT105M 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Trench - 99 Operate 1. Move attachment speed/direction control to desired speed. DIGGING CHAIN WILL MOVE. Moving digging teeth can kill. Trench cave-in can 6ft/2m cause you to fall. Stay away. 275-097, 270-6900 To help avoid injury: •...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Trench - 100 Finish Job Finish Job 1. When trench is complete, move ground drive hand control to neutral. 2. Adjust throttle to low. 3. Raise boom. 4. As boom clears top of trench, move attachment direction/speed control to neutral.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 102 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: •...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 103 Set Up Dig Target Trench 1. Select a completion point for the bore. 2. Dig a target trench (2) across the intended completion point. IMPORTANT: Ensure that target trench is: • deep enough for drill bit to enter slightly above the trench floor, and •...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 104 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 105 Operate Drill Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away. To help avoid injury: • Keep everyone at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill string and machine. • Wear close-fitting clothing and personal protective equipment.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 106 Operate Start Bore with Drill String Guide If necessary, have helper follow the instructions below to operate the drill string guide at start of bore. Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay away.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 107 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 108 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 109 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 110 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Drill - 111 Operate Reconnect Drill String 1. Start tractor 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 113 Systems and Equipment Chapter Contents Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets ....114 • Chain and Tooth Maintenance .......114 •...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 114 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.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 115 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.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 116 Optional Equipment Optional Equipment ® See your Ditch Witch dealer for more information about the following optional equipment. RT105 Tractor Equipment Description backup alarm for use with low visibility situations light kit...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 117 Complete the Job Chapter Contents Restore Jobsite ......118 •...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 118 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.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 119 Service Chapter Contents Service Precautions ..... . . 120 • Welding Precaution ........120 •...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 120 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 123 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key Approved Coolant ® This unit was filled with coolant meeting Deutz DQC CB-14 before shipment from factory. 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.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 124 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) 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: • Diesel exhaust fluid is corrosive. Avoid spills. If spill occurs wipe clean immediately.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 125 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key Exhaust Cleaning IMPORTANT: See “Exhaust Cleaning” on page 42. This engine has a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that uses a small amount of DEF to convert NOx emissions in the exhaust into nitrogen and water. The SCR system may require periodic cleaning.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 127 10 Hour Tractor Check Engine Oil Level IMPORTANT: See “Recommended Lubricants/ Service Key” on page 121. Check engine oil at dipstick (1) before operation and every 10 hours thereafter. Add DEO at fill (2) as necessary to keep oil level at highest line on dipstick.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 128 10 Hour Check Hydraulic Hoses Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause severe injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. To help avoid injury: • Use a piece of cardboard or wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 129 10 Hour Check Coolant Level Check coolant level, with engine cool and unit on level ground, at sight glass (shown) of expansion tank every 10 hours. Maintain coolant level so that coolant is visible in sight glass and no higher than bottom of fill neck.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 130 10 Hour Check Radiator Check radiator for dirt and debris every 10 hours. Clean with compressed air or spray wash as needed. See “Clean Radiator” on page 154. Clean Dust Ejector Valve Check dust ejector valve (shown) every 10 hours of operation.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 131 10 Hour Trencher Lube Trencher Tail Roller Wipe zerks clean and lube every 10 hours with EPG. Lube roller zerks on both sides of boom. Lube Trencher Pivot Stub Wipe five zerks located on right of trencher pivot clean and lube every 10 hours with EPG.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 132 10 Hour Lube Trencher Auger Bearings Lube two auger bearing zerks (one on each side) every 10 hours with EPG. Lube Trencher Auger Sleeve Lube four auger shaft zerks (two on each side) every 10 hours with EPG.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 133 10 Hour Check Boom Mounting Bolts Check 14 bolts (7 on each side) every 10 hours and tighten as necessary to keep bolts and other fasteners tight. Check for looseness or wear. Check that bolts are tightened to 250 ft•lb (28 N•m).
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 134 10 Hour Check Trench Cleaner Position Check trench cleaner position (if equipped) every 10 hours, or anytime the digging chain is adjusted or replaced. The trench cleaner is properly positioned when there is 3-4 in (76-102 mm) between the digging teeth and the inside of the trench cleaner shoe (A).
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 135 10 Hour Check Digging Chain Tension Check digging chain tension every 10 hours. Sprocket Boom Tension is correct when 2” (50 mm) of slide and stop (3) are exposed. Adjust tension with boom horizontal by tightening or loosening adjustment screws (2) and jam nuts (1).
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 136 10 Hour Roller Boom with Grease Cylinder With boom horizontal, measure distance from bottom of boom to chain (2). When properly adjusted, distance should be 1.5-2.0” (40-50 mm). Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause severe injury.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 138 50 Hour Check Fuel Tank Breather Check fuel tank breather every 50 hours. Ensure breather is not clogged. Remove dust around breather as needed by blowing with low pressure air. When breather element becomes clogged, remove and clean or replace.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 139 50 Hour Check washer fluid level every 50 hours. Change Transmission Fluid and Filter (Initial) Change transmission fluid and filter (1) after first 50 hours of operation. Change more frequently if working in dusty conditions.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 140 50 Hour Lube Universal Joints (Initial Service Lube universal joints (shown) at zerks at 50 hours initially and every 250 hours thereafter with EPG. Lube Axle Spindle Pins (Initial Service) Lube axle spindle pins (shown) after 50 hours.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 141 50 Hour Lube Attachment Driveshaft Universal Joints Lube attachment driveshaft universal joints at zerks (shown) every 50 hours with EPG.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 143 250 Hour 250 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine oil and filter Check brake pedal Lube universal joints Lube axle spindle pins Check transfer case oil level Check differential oil level Check planetary wheel end oil level...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 144 250 Hour Check Brake Pedal Check brake pedal after 250 hours of operation. When properly adjusted, there is 1/4-1/2" (6-13 mm) free play in pedal. See “Check Engine Compartment” on page 156. Lube Universal Joints Lube driveshaft universal joints (shown) at zerks every 250 hours with EPG.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 145 250 Hour Check Transfer Case Oil Level Check oil level at plug (shown) every 250 hours. Add MPL as needed until level with plug. Level Check Differential Oil Check oil level at fill (shown) every 250 hours.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 147 500 Hour Test Coolant Freeze Protection Level With engine cool, test coolant freeze protection level using a hydrometer or refractometer. Recommended freeze protection level is -34°F (-37°C). Adjust as needed. If colder temperatures are expected, consult your ®...
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 148 1000 Hour 1000 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change hydraulic fluid and filter Change differential oil Change transfer case oil Change planetary wheel end oil Check drive belt Change transmission fluid and filter TRENCHER...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 149 1000 Hour Change Differential Oil Change differential oil every 1000 hours. To change: 1. Remove drain plug (2). 2. Drain fluid and replace plug. 3. Add MPL at fill (1). Change Transfer Case Oil Change transfer case oil every 1000 hours.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 150 1000 Hour Check Drive Belt Check engine drive belt every 1000 hours for cracks and wear. If damaged, replace belt. See “Change Engine Drive Belt” on page 153. Change Transmission Fluid and Filter Change transmission fluid and filter (1) every 1000 hours.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 151 1000 Hour Trencher Change Trencher Gearbox Oil Change trencher gearbox oil every 1000 hours. Drain at plug. Replace drain plug and add MPL until fluid level is at lowest line on sight tube. Lube Attachment Driveshaft Slip Yoke Lube attachment driveshaft slip yoke every 1000 hours with EPG.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 152 2000 Hour 2000 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine coolant DEAC Inspect seat belt Change engine drive belt Tractor Change Engine Coolant NOTICE: • The use of non-approved coolant may lead to engine damage or premature engine failure and will void engine warranty.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 153 2000 Hour Inspect Seat Belt Check seat belt and mounting hardware as needed. Inspect the webbing, buckle and latch, retractor, and mounting hardware. Buckle and Latch Check that the buckle and latch (1) are not broken or corroded.
RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 154 As Needed As Needed Location Task Notes TRACTOR Clean radiator Change air filter Drain water separator on primary fuel filter Check engine compartment Adjust brake pedal Check batteries Charge battery TRENCHER Replace digging chain...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 155 As Needed Change Air Filter Change air filter when pop-up message appears. To change: 1. Remove air filter cover and remove primary (1) and secondary (2) elements. 2. Wipe inside of housing and wash cover and clean dust ejector valve.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 156 As Needed Check Engine Compartment Check engine compartment for debris as needed. Do not use water or compressed air to remove debris from engine compartment. Check more often if operating in large brush, grassy conditions or being stored.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 157 As Needed Check Batteries Check batteries as needed. Keep batteries 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 158 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 159 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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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 160 As Needed Trencher Replace Digging Chain Visually check digging chains for wear on teeth (1), rollers, and sidebars (2). Check pins (3) and bushing wear by measuring distance between chain pins and comparing it with a new chain.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 161 As Needed 8. Loop cable through links nearest connector pin. Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause severe injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. To help avoid injury: • Service digging boom grease cylinder only while standing on opposite side of boom.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 162 As Needed To install chain: 1. Lay chain on ground with teeth down and pointed toward unit. 2. Fasten and adjust seat belt. 3. Start tractor. See page 74 for start-up procedures. 4. Release parking brake and verify parking brake indicator is off.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 163 As Needed Backhoe Replace Pins and Bushings Replace pins (1) and bushings (2) when worn or damaged.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service - 164 As Needed...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 163 RT105 Tractor Specifications RT105 Tractor Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of approach 25° 25° Height 115 in 2.92 m Height 105 in 2.67 m Nose to rear mount length 125 in 3.18 m Length - transport 154 in 3.91 m...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 164 RT105 Tractor Operation U.S. Metric Forward speeds Crowd 0.6 mph 0.96 km/h 6.2 mph 9.9 km/h High 9.2 mph 14.9 km/h Reverse speeds Crowd 0.6 mph 0.96 km/h 6.2 mph 9.9 km/h High 9.2 mph 14.9 km/h...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 165 RT105 Tractor Power U.S. Metric ® Engine: Deutz TCD3.6L4, 4-cylinder diesel Cooling medium: liquid Injection: direct Aspiration: turbocharged, charge-air cooled Displacement 3.6 L 221 in Bore 3.86 in 98 mm Stroke 4.72 in 120 mm Engine manufacturer’s gross power per SAE J1995...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 167 RT105 Tractor Vibration Level Average vibration transmitted to the operator’s hand and whole body during normal operation is 5.98 m/ and 0.64 m/s respectively.* Average vibration transmitted to the operator’s hand and whole body during normal trenching operation is 2.915 m/s...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 168 BH120 Backhoe BH120 Backhoe Dimensions U.S. Metric Transport height 118 in 2.98 m Ground clearance 29 in 736 mm Backhoe length, stowed 117 in 2.97 m Digging depth, maximum 112 in 2.84 m Digging depth, 2” (0.6 m) flat bottom 109 in 2.77 m...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 169 BH120 Backhoe Backhoe or basic unit width 82 in 2.08 m Stabilizer spread, operating 121 in 3.07 m Leveling angle 10° 10° General U.S. Metric Bucket Width 12-24 in 305-610 Capacity 1.7-3.5 ft 0.05-.1 m Backhoe weight with 18”...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 170 CT100M Trencher CT100M Trencher t48om037w.eps Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of departure RT105 with 38 x 18.00-20 tires 23.7° 23.7° Trench depth, maximum RT105 with 38 x 18.00-20 tires 97 in 2.5 m Trench width, maximum...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 171 CT100M Trencher Dimensions U.S. Metric Transport length 115 in 2.9 m Headshaft overhang 43 in 1.1 m Soil discharge reach 32 in 813 mm Attachment weight 1750 lb 794 kg Operation U.S. Metric Headshaft speeds...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 172 DT100M Offest Trencher DT100M Offest Trencher t52om001w.eps Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of departure RT105 with 38 x 18.00-20 tires 28° 28° Trench depth, maximum RT105 with 38 x 18.00-20 tires 97 in 2.47 m...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 173 DT100M Offest Trencher Dimensions U.S. Metric Transport height RT105 with 38 x 18.00-20 tires 124 in 3.3 m Distance between trencher positions 26 in 660 mm Transport length 115 in 2.9 m Headshaft overhang 43 in 1.1 m...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Specifications - 174 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.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Support - 219 Procedure Support Procedure ® Notify your dealer immediately of any malfunction or failure of Ditch Witch equipment. Always give model, serial number, and approximate date of your equipment purchase. This information should be recorded and placed on file by the owner at the time of purchase.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Warranty - 220 Warranty ® Ditch Witch Equipment and Replacement Parts Limited Warranty Policy 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 Ditch Witch factory that fail due to a defect in material or workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use.
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service Record - 223 Service Record Service Performed Date Hours...
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RT105M Operator’s Manual Service Record - 224 Service Performed Date Hours...