Do you have a question about the TS12 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers
Ronnie Gilliland
May 6, 2025
Just bought a 2 yr old ts12. I checked oil levels n greased good. It’s said to have 150 hours on it. I’m used to heavy duty 15 ft cutter w the heavy ck style shaft. But due to multiple back surgeries cannot handle hooking the shaft up. With the old ones u can turn as sharp as tongue will allow. The 12 appears very smooth until I turn n vibration really picks up. Even on slight turns. Is this normal for this cutter or any ideas? Thanks
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TS12 FLEX-WING MECHANICAL LEVEL LIFT ROTARY CUTTER/SHREDDER Published 04/21 Part No. 00790219C OPERATOR’S MANUAL This Operator's Manual is an integral part of the safe operation of this machine and must be maintained with the unit at all times. READ, UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the Safety and Operation Instructions contained in this manual before operating the equipment.
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Your Authorized Rhino Dealer may have shown this video and presented you a DVD Video when you purchased your mower. If you or any mower operator have not seen this video, Watch the Video, Read this Operator’s Manual, and Complete the Video Guidebook before operating your new mower.
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Alamo Group Ag. Division will provide one (1) AEM Mower Safety Practices Video Please Send Me: VHS Format – AEM/FEMA Mower Operator Safety Video DVD Format – AEM/FEMA Mower Operator Safety Video Mower Operator’s Manual AEM Mower Operator’s Safety Manual Requester Name: Phone: ________________________________________...
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A Manual canister is provided on the implement where this manual can be properly stored. If you lose or damage this manual a free replacement manual can be obtained from an authorized Rhino dealer or by down loading the manual from the Rhino website www.servis-rhino.com...
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DEALER to CUSTOMER Pre-Delivery / Operation Instructions Dealer should inform the Purchaser of this product of Warranty terms, provisions, and procedures that are applica- ble. Dealer should also inform the Purchaser to review the contents of the Operator’s Manual including safety equipment, safe operation and maintenance, to review the Safety Signs on the implement (and tractor if possible) and of Purchaser’s responsibility to train his/her operators in safe operation procedures.
NOTE: If you want a translation of this safety section in one of the following Languages, please contact: Translations at 1502 E. Walnut Street Seguin, TX 78155; Fax: (830) 372-9529; Safety Section Translations are available in Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Russian. PN GS01str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-2 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
FILL Wing Cylinders with oil. (Refer to Instructions in Operation Section) • • KEEP bystanders away before operating wings. • KEEP bystanders away before operating wings. • LOWER WINGS slowly and carefully. PN CH01 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-4 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
KEEP bystanders clear of area before operating wings. • LOWER WINGS slowly and carefully. DO NOT connect the Mower to a tractor with the PTO directly connected to the Tractor transmission. CD01 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-5 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
INSPECT AREA thoroughly before mowing to REMOVE potential THROWN OBJECT HAZARDS, NEVER ALLOW BLADES to CONTACT SOLID OBJECTS like wire, rocks, post, curbs, guardrails, or ground PN TO01 str while mowing. TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-6 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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STOP mowing when EXCESSIVE VIBRATION occurs: • 1. STOP PTO and tractor ENGINE. 2. INSPECT mower for vibration source. 3. REPLACE any damage parts and bent or damaged BLADES. PN TO01-X TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-7 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
ONLY mount or dismount when tractor and moving parts are stopped. • STOP ENGINE AND PTO, engage parking brake, lower implement, allow all moving parts to stop and remove key before dismounting from tractor. PN RO01 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-8 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
DO NOT USE PTO ADAPTER. Using a PTO adapter can cause excessive vibration, thrown objects, blade and implement failures by doubling operating speed. Increased working length exposing unshielded driveline areas. PN PE01str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-9 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
If you raise the mower or mower wing to access the blockage, engage the wing lock up latch and securely block up the mower before placing any parts of the body beneath the mower. PN MB01str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-10 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
KEEP AWAY • Injected Hydraulic fluid may cause gangrene if not surgically removed immediately by a doctor familiar with this form of injury. PN HP01str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-11 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
ADJUST SLIP CLUTCHES to avoid excessive slippage and clutch plate heating • CLEAR any grass clippings or debris buildup around mower drivelines, slip clutches, and gearboxes. • SHUT OFF ENGINE while refueling. PN EF01 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-12 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
TURN ON tractor FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS. • ALLOW clearance for implement swing while turning. KEEP all raised wings at 10 feet or greater distance from all power lines and overhead obstructions. PN TH01 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-13 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
DO NOT modify or alter implement, functions or components. DO NOT WELD or repair rotating mower components. These may cause vibrations and component • failures being thrown from mower. PN HM02 str TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-14 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Skirts and Skid Shoes in place and in good condition. • REPLACE any missing, broken or worn safety shields, guards and safety devices. Cancer and Reproductive Harm www.P65Warnings.ca.gov PN HM02-A TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-15 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Rhino mowers use balanced and matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts, knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain components, and bearings. These parts are made and tested to Rhino specifications. Non-genuine "will fit" parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will fit”...
SAFETY DECAL LOCATION NOTE: Rhino supplies safety decals on this product to promote safe operation. Damage to the decals may occur while in shipping, use, or reconditioning. Rhino cares about the safety of its customers, operators, and bystanders, and will replace the safety decals on this product in the field, free of charge (Some shipping and handling charges may apply).
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Multi Language D1064 INSTRUCT Safety Information Symbol - 20 MPH D1085 Towing Vehicle Mass INSTRUCT *Furnished by Driveline Manufacturer Decal Sheets: Flex-Wing - D420, TS12 Logo Decal Sheet - D556 TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-18 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
(Refer to U.S. Dept. of Labor, Employment Standard Administration, Wage & Home Division, Child Labor Bulletin #102.) TS12 04/21 Safety Section 1-29 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION SECTION Introduction Section 2-1 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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INTRODUCTION We are pleased to have you as a Rhino customer. Your Rotary Cutter has been carefully designed with care and built with quality materials by skilled workers to give maximum service with minimum down time. This manual is provided to give you the necessary operating and maintenance instructions for keeping your rotary cutter in top operating condition.
A. Warranty is ONE-YEAR (12 MONTHS) for Seals (After one year, seals are considered to be WEARING PARTS and replacement is the users' responsibility.) B. Users' Gearboxes may be rebuilt by Rhino or replaced by new or rebuilt Gearboxes at the option of Rhino.
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RHINOAG Implement Model____________________________ Serial Number_______________________ Date Purchased______________________________________ Dealer______________________________ RHINO ® ATTENTION: 1020 S Sangamon Ave. READ YOUR OERATOR’S MANUAL Gibson City, IL 60936 800-446-5158 E-mail: parts@rhinoag.com TS12 04/21 Introduction Section 2-5 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
The implement wings should lower slowly when they are allowed to float down and are not powered down. This is a safety feature built into the system. If the wings fall rapidly, have the cylinders repaired before operating the implement. Asm-0003 str TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-2 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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3/4” flatwasher and nut. Tighten the nuts securely, but do not overtighten, which could spring or break the clevis. NOTE: Never attach mower to the tractor with a pin not having a nut.. TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-3 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Continue to apply pressure to cylinders for at least 10 seconds to assure they have filled with fluid. Keep coworkers and bystanders away from the implement while filling 4. Remove main driveline from mower and place on ground or hard surface. Fig. AsmP- R-0439 TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-4 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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11. Test to make sure the wings lower slowly when they are allowed to float down and are not powered down. This is a safety feature built into the system. If the wings fall rapidly, have the hydraulic system or cylinders repaired before operating the implement. TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-5 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Many of the equipment components are HEAVY (60 lbs or greater) and Special Lifting Procedures are recommended. Use lifting assistance such as mechanical assistance, two people, and proper lifting techniques when connecting or installing the driveshaft to reduce the possibility of back injuries. TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-6 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
TIRE TO PREVENT EXPLOSIVE SEPERATION OF WHEEL HALVES WITH POSSIBLE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY. Do not exceed 20 M.P.H. on Airplane or Rib Implement Tires. Inflate ribbed implement tires to manufacturer rated PSI as shown on the tire sidewall. TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-7 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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ASSEMBLY Lubricate the PTO drivelines and wheel hubs according to the lubrication information found in the Maintenance Section. Mower is now assembled and ready for pre-delivery checks. TS12 04/21 Assembly Section 3-8 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION SECTION Operation Section 4-1 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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RHINO TS12 ROTARY MOWER OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS Rhino TS12 rotary mowers are manufactured with quality material by skilled workers. These mowers are designed to cut grass, weeds, small brush and other vegetative material up to 1-1/2” diameter in areas such as pastures and along highway right-of-ways.
Serious injury or death to the operator or others could result if the operator is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. (SG-27)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-3 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Never operate the tractor PTO with the PTO master shield missing or in the raised position. OPS-U- 0004str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-4 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
For most mowing conditions, the TS12 mower requires a tractor with a minimum of 35 PTO HP. Operating the mower with a tractor that does not have adequate power may damage the tractor engine. Exceeding 60 HP PTO may cause mower damage by overpowering the unit in heavy cutting conditions.
Tractor only when the Tractor and all moving parts are completely stopped. Dismounting a moving power unit can result in a crushing hazard that can cause death or serious injury. (SG-12) str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-6 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Place the tractor shift lever into a low range or parking gear to prevent the tractor from rolling. Never dismount a Tractor that is moving or while the engine is running. Operate the Tractor controls from the tractor seat only. (SG-9)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-7 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Start tractor only when properly seated in the Tractor seat. Starting a tractor in gear can result in death or serious injury. Read the Tractor operators manual for proper starting instructions. (SG-13)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-8 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
6. Lower the jack until the tongue is completely supported by the drawbar. Remove jack from the tongue and place on storage bracket of mower. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-9 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
IMPORTANT: Scan this QR Code with your smart phone to link to the PAMI Safe Implement Hitching Manual for more information on correctly connecting agricultural tractors to implements. Or type in your internet browser the following web address: www.algqr.com/hme Ops-0008-MISC str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-10 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Operating Mower Hydraulics with Two or Three Tractor Hydraulics Ports Optional Two-Function or Three-Function Hose Kit must be purchased (Contact your nearest Rhino dealer for details). Two-Function kit will allow wings to be operated as a pair, separate from the lift function. Three- Function will allow each wing to be operated independently from the lift function.
To lower the wing, loosen the jamnut and lengthen the turnbuckles, shorten the screw assembly to raise the wing. After wings are leveled, retighten jamnuts to maintain settings. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-12 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
3/4” lower in the front than the rear. To lower the front, shorten the leveling tube and to raise the front lengthen the leveling tube. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-13 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
At its shortest length, there must be at least a 1” clearance between each profile end and opposite profile universal joint. At its farthest operating extension, a minimum profile engagement of 12” must be maintained. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-14 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Never work on the Implement with the tractor PTO driveline connected and running. Rotating Parts, Blades or Drivelines could turn without warning and cause immediate entanglement, injury or death. (S3PT-11)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-15 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Look for loose fasteners, worn or broken parts, and leaky or loose fittings. Make sure all pins have cotter pins and washers. Serious injury may occur from not maintaining this machine in good working order. (SG-21)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-16 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Ensure the manual canister is secured to the equipment with the operator’s manual inside. • Ensure all safety signs are in place and legi- ble. Replace missing, damaged, and illegible decals. OPS-U- 0011 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-17 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Missing, broken, or worn items must be replaced at once to reduce the possibility of injury or death from thrown objects, entanglement, or blade contact. (SGM-3str) TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-18 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Ensure carrier hub nuts are tightened with the cotter pin inserted and spread. • Inspect the condition of the deck skid shoes and the skid shoe attaching hardware. OPS- R-0012 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-19 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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• Check the condition of the wing hinge pins. • Check the condition of the mower axle suspension spring. • Inspect mower tire condition, wheel bearings, and lug nut torque. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-20 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION 8.3 Cutting Component Inspection Inspect blade pan and blade assembly for the following: OPS-U-0031str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-21 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Failure to replace abnormally worn blades may lead to catastrophic failure of the blades and ejection of the broken part with tremendous force which may cause serious bodily injury or death. OPS-U-0032str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-22 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Failure to replace abnormally worn blade bolts may lead to catastrophic failure of the blades and ejection of the broken part which may cause serious bodily injury or death. Always replace Blade Bolts with new bolts whenever replacing the Blades. OPS-U-0037 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-23 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Blades are not chipped, cracked or bent Blade bolts are tight Wheel lug nuts are tight Transport locks are in good condition Make:________________________ Shift:_________________________ Operator’s Signature: ____________________________________________ DO NOT OPERATE an UNSAFE TRACTOR or MOWER TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-24 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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The engine coolant fluid level is full The radiator is free of debris The air filter is in good condition Operator’s Signature: ____________________________________________ DO NOT OPERATE an UNSAFE TRACTOR or MOWER TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-25 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
When operating in traffic always use the Tractor’s flashing warning lights and reduce your speed. Be aware of traffic around you and watch out for the other guy. (SG-19)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-26 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Only operate the mower with both wings fully lowered, NEVER operate the mower with a raised wing. Wait until the blades are at a complete stop before raising wings. OPS-R-0015_D str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-27 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Allow ample clearance around the implement when folding or unfolding the wings. Use extreme caution around buildings or overhead power lines. (S3PT-05) str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-28 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Use extreme caution when operating on steep slopes. Keep the tractor in a low gear when going downhill. DO NOT coast or free-wheel downhill. OPS-R-0018 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-29 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
When crossing such terrain, the implement should be fully lowered for a lower center of gravity and added stability. OPS-R-0021 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-30 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Ground contact also produces a severe shock load on the mower drive and to the mower blades resulting in possible damage and premature wear. OPS-R-0022 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-31 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Inspect the cutting area for such objects before mowing. Remove any like object from the site. Never allow the cutting blades to contact such items. (SGM-06) str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-32 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
The seat belt is your best protection from falling off the tractor and the ROPS provides protection from being crushed during a tractor roll-over. OPS-R-0023 str Raise Mower over solid objects TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-33 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Do not put hands or feet under mower decks. Blade Contact can result in death or serious injury. Stay away until all motion has stopped and the decks are securely blocked up. (SGM-09) str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-34 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
When mowing in reverse, operate the tractor and mower at a reduced ground speed to ensure tractor and mower control is maintained. Do not mow with two machines in the same area except with Cab tractors with the windows closed. (SGM-11)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-35 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Raising the Mower deck exposes the Cutting Blades which creates a potentially serious hazard and could cause serious injury or even death from objects thrown from the Blades. (SRM-07) str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-36 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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Always avoid operating the mower at a height or position which may cause the blades to contact the ground. Cutting into the berm or edge of the ditch will cause abnormal and accelerated blade wear and possible blade component failure. OPS-R-0029 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-37 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Mower sections or wings are adjusted to be close and parallel to ground without exposing blades. MOWING AREA has been inspected and foreign materials and debris have been removed. • • PASSERSBY are inside enclosed vehicle. OPS-U-0040 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-38 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
After the driveline has been removed from the tractor, place the PTO master shield back in the operating position. OPS-R-0031_K str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-40 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Never allow children to play on or around Tractor or Implement. Children can slip or fall off the Equipment and be killed or injured. Inadvertent contact with controls can cause the Implement to shift or fall crushing themselves or others. (SG-25)str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-41 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
PTO output shaft. Secure the driveline to the mower deck to prevent driveline damage or loss during transport. OPS-R-0034 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-42 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
When replacing a tire assembly on center axle always check diameters to make sure tires fall within allowed range for maximum tire and wheel life. It may be necessary to move one or more tires from wing axles to remain within size limit. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-43 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Replace the SMV emblem if faded, damaged, or no longer reflective. OPS-U- 0020str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-44 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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OPS- U- 0022_A str Reduce speed before turning or applying the brakes. Ensure that both brake pedals are locked together when operating on public roads. OPS-U- 0023 str TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-45 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
If during transport a hard braking, sharp turning, or swerving action was performed, stop at the next safe location to inspect the security of the load. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-46 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Gearbox over- Low on lubricant. Fill to level plug/dipstick. heating Improper type lubricant. Replace with Rhino 00786250 lubricant. Not vented properly; excessive trash Remove trash. build-up around gear box Bearing or gears set up improperly Consult your dealer. Gearbox noisy Rough gears.
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Repair or replace as necessary. Phasing cylinders are not filled with oil. Rephase cylinders. Air trapped in phasing cylinder circuit. Rephase cylinders. Damaged cylinder. Replace damaged cylinder and rephase cylinders. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-48 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
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(Refer to the "Operation Section- distribution Setting the Mower- Setting Deck Height”). Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed. Conditions too wet. Wait for conditions to dry. Reduce ground speed. TS12 04/21 Operation Section 4-49 @ 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
Rhino mowers use balanced and matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts, knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain components, and bearings. These parts are made and tested to Rhino speci- fications. Non-genuine "will fit" parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will fit” parts may reduce mower performance, void warranties, and present a safety hazard.
8 to 10 hours of operation and oil added until it shows proper level on dipstick. Filler plugs are located on top of all gearboxes. Use Rhino Special Gearbox Lube (P/N 00786250). Gearbox capacity is 1.63 quarts in each box Divider Gearbox It is recommended that the oil level dipstick be removed after every 8 to 10 hours of operation and oil added until it is at proper level on dipstick.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the TS12 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers
Just bought a 2 yr old ts12. I checked oil levels n greased good. It’s said to have 150 hours on it. I’m used to heavy duty 15 ft cutter w the heavy ck style shaft. But due to multiple back surgeries cannot handle hooking the shaft up. With the old ones u can turn as sharp as tongue will allow. The 12 appears very smooth until I turn n vibration really picks up. Even on slight turns. Is this normal for this cutter or any ideas? Thanks