Ditch Witch HT300 Operator's Manual
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Ditch Witch HT300 Operator's Manual

Ditch Witch HT300 Operator's Manual

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HT300
Operator's
Manual
®
Issue 1.0
053-1328
CMW

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Summary of Contents for Ditch Witch HT300

  • Page 1 HT300 Operator’s Manual ® Issue 1.0 053-1328...

  • Page 2: Overview

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Overview - 1 Overview Chapter Contents Serial Number Location ..... . 2 Intended Use ....... 3 Unit Components .
  • Page 3 HT300 Operator’s Manual Overview - 2 Serial Number Location Serial Number Location Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. HT300 serial number is located as shown. t25om002t.eps Date of manufacture Date of purchase HT300 serial number Engine serial number...
  • Page 4 Intended Use The HT300 is a large track trencher designed dig trenches up to 36” (910 mm) wide and 125” (3.18 m) deep. The trencher’s hard metal teeth remove very hard, rocky ground and thinly crush it. The result is an even, rectangular-shaped trench ready for laying pipes or cables.
  • Page 5 HT300 Operator’s Manual Overview - 4 Unit Components Unit Components t25om003t.eps 1. engine compartment 6. trench cleaner 2. operator’s station 7. stabilizer 3. hydraulic reservoir 8. digging boom 4. fuel tank 9. trench cleaner shoe 5. conveyor...
  • Page 6 HT300 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 Operator faces the left side of the unit while operating the controls. t25om004t.eps About This Manual This manual contains information for the proper use of this machine.
  • Page 7 HT300 Operator’s Manual Overview - 6 About This Manual...

  • Page 8: Foreword

    If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner. If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need assistance in locating a dealer, visit our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
  • Page 9 Copyright 2009 by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. , Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd, Modularmatic, Jet Trac, Roto Witch, Subsite, Fluid Miser, Perma-Soil, Power Pipe, Super Witch, Super Witch II, Pierce Airrow, The Underground, and The Underground Authority Worldwide are registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.

  • Page 10: Table Of Contents

    HT300 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...
  • Page 11 HT300 Tier 3 Operator’s Manual Contents - 10 Specifications machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid capacities Support the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty consideration and training Service Record a record of major service performed on the machine...

  • Page 12: Safety

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 11 Safety Chapter Contents Guidelines ....... . 12 Safety Alert Classifications .

  • Page 13: Guidelines

    Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate anything that does not look or feel right. • Do not operate unit where flammable gas may be present. • Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question about operation, maintenance, or equipment use.

  • Page 14: Safety Alert Classifications

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 13 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.

  • Page 15: Safety Alerts

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 14 Safety Alerts Safety Alerts Moving digging teeth will kill you or cut off arm or leg. Stay away. Electric shock. Contacting electric lines will cause death or serious injury. Know location of lines and stay away.
  • Page 16 HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 15 Safety Alerts Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur. Follow directions carefully. Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly. Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be injured or killed. Only operator is allowed on machine.
  • Page 17 HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 16 Safety Alerts Moving traffic - hazardous situation. Death or serious injury could result. Avoid moving vehicles, wear high visibility clothing, post appropriate warning signs. Hot pressurized cooling system fluid could cause serious burns. Allow to cool before servicing.

  • Page 18: Emergency Procedures

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 17 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.

  • Page 19: If An Electric Line Is Damaged

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 18 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.

  • Page 20: If A Gas Line Is Damaged

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 19 Emergency Procedures If a Gas Line is Damaged Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause burns. No smoking, no flame, no spark. Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur. Follow directions carefully.

  • Page 21: If A Fiber Optic Cable Is Damaged

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Safety - 20 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. 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.

  • Page 22: Controls

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 21 Controls Chapter Contents Center Console ......22 •...

  • Page 23: Center Console

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 22 Center Console Center Console Switches t25om005t.eps 1. Low Hydraulic Fluid Test Switch 4. Fuel Tank Selector Switch 2. Throttle 5. Horn 3. Engine Ignition Switch 6. Light Switch Item Description Notes 1. Low Hydraulic Fluid To check for low hydraulic Switch is normally centered.
  • Page 24 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 23 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Throttle To increase throttle, turn knob counterclockwise. To idle, push knob in. 3. Engine Ignition Switch To start engine, insert key and turn clockwise. To stop engine, turn counterclockwise.

  • Page 25: Indicators

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 24 Center Console Indicators t25om006t.eps 1. Low Hydraulic Fluid Indicator 5. Engine Operation Error Indicator 2. Recirculating Hydraulic Filter Indicator 6. Ignition “On” Indicator 3. Return Hydraulic Fluid Indicator 7. Fault Code Indicator 4. Engine Service Indicator 8.
  • Page 26 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 25 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Recirculating Hydraulic Light comes on when NOTICE: Fluid Filter Indicator excessive pressure is generated by the flow and • The warning light may come on cooling circuit hydraulic filter.
  • Page 27 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 26 Center Console Item Description Notes 6. Ignition “On” Indicator Buzzer sounds when engine is not running and the ignition switch is on. 7. Fault Code Indicator Light comes on when machine is ready for service interval maintenance.

  • Page 28: Trenching Controls

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 27 Center Console Trenching Controls t25om007t.eps 1. Trencher Drive Control 6. Trench Cleaner Control 2. Conveyor Shift Control 7. Boom Lift Control 3. Conveyor Direction Control 8. Auto Stabilizer Control 4. Conveyor Speed Control 9. Stabilizer Control 5.
  • Page 29 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 28 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Conveyor Shift Control To shift left, move to up position. To shift right, move to down position. 3. Conveyor Direction To dump spoil to the left, Control move to down position.
  • Page 30 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 29 Center Console Item Description Notes 6. Trench Cleaner Control To raise trench cleaner, press To lower trench cleaner, press down. 7. Boom Lift Control To raise boom, push up. To lower boom, pull down.

  • Page 31: Gauges

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 30 Center Console Gauges t25om008t.eps 1. Hourmeter 6. Trencher Pressure Gauge 2. Hydraulic Fluid Temperature Gauge 7. Left Track Pressure Gauge 3. Engine Message Display 8. Right Track Pressure Gauge 4. Fuel Gauge 9. Equipment System Pressure Gauge 5.
  • Page 32 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 31 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Hydraulic Fluid Displays hydraulic fluid Do not exceed 185° F (85° C). Temperature Gauge temperature. c00ic037t.eps 3. Engine Message Digital display monitors Display engine functions. 4. Fuel Gauge Displays fuel level in tank.
  • Page 33 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 32 Center Console Item Description Notes 7. Left Track Pressure Displays hydraulic fluid If pressure exceeds 5,000 PSI (344 Gauge pressure at the left track. bar) stop engine and have repaired. c00ic013t.eps 8. Right Track Pressure...

  • Page 34: Drive Controls

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 33 Center Console Drive Controls t25om009t.eps 1. Emergency Engine Stop 6. Steering Control 2. Cruise Control Speed Range Switch 7. Radius Control 3. Sensitivity Control 8. Ground Drive Speed 4. AUTO - MANUAL Switch 9. Parking Brake 5.
  • Page 35 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 34 Center Console Item Description Notes 2. Cruise Control Speed To position cruise control to Range Switch low, push up. To position cruise control to medium, pull down. To position cruise control to high, place in center.
  • Page 36 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 35 Center Console Item Description Notes 6. Steering Control To steer machine left, move Detent lever is normally centered. To steer machine right, move down. 7. Radius Control To increase pressure on the left track, turn knob to left.

  • Page 37: Diagnostic Display

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 36 Diagnostic Display Diagnostic Display t25om011t.eps 1. Previous Button 3. Scroll Down/Right Button 2. Scroll Up/Left Button 4. OK Button Item Description Notes 1. Previous Button To return to information that was previously shown on the digital display area, press previous button.
  • Page 38 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 37 Diagnostic Display Item Description Notes 3. Scroll Down/Right To scroll down through Button information that is shown on the display area or to scroll to the right, press the scroll down/right button. c00ic025t.eps 4. OK Button To confirm a selection, press the OK button.

  • Page 39: Seat

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 38 Seat Seat 1. Seat Slide Control 3. Seat Belt 2. Seat Swivel Control Item Description Notes 1. Seat slide control To slide seat, move control away from seat. 2. Seat swivel control To swivel seat, move control toward back of seat.

  • Page 40: Top Console

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 39 Top Console Top Console t25om010t.eps 1. Heater Temperature Control 5. Cab Pressurizer Switch 2. Fan Speed Control 6. Windshield Wiper Handle 3. Air Conditioner/Heater Power Control 7. Alternate Escape Method 4. Air Conditioner Temperature Control 8.
  • Page 41 HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 40 Top Console Item Description Notes 2. Fan speed control To adjust the rate of air flow, turn control. c00ic041t.eps 3. Air conditioner/heater To turn on air conditioning, power control move to top position. To turn on heater, move to bottom position.

  • Page 42: Engine Compartment

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 41 Engine Compartment Engine Compartment j25om012t.eps Battery Disconnect Switch Item Description Notes Battery Disconnect Switch To connect the battery to the electrical system, rotate clockwise. To disconnect the battery from the electrical system, rotate counterclockwise.

  • Page 43: Emergency Engine Stop

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Controls - 42 Emergency Engine Stop Emergency Engine Stop j25om013t.eps Item Description Notes Emergency Engine Stop To stop machine immediately, To release the stop function, the Buttons press button. button must be pulled “out” or twisted clockwise to the “out” position. The switches must be reset in order for the engine to start.

  • Page 44: Operation Overview

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 43 Operation Overview Chapter Contents Planning........44 Trenching.
  • Page 45 HT300 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 44 Planning Planning 1. Gather information about jobsite. See page 46. 2. Inspect jobsite. See page 47. 3. Classify jobsite. See page 48. 4. Select chain and teeth to match your soil type, if necessary. See page 72.

  • Page 46: Prepare

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 45 Prepare Chapter Contents Gather Information ......46 • Review Job Plan ......... . .46 •...

  • Page 47: Gather Information

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 46 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.

  • Page 48: Inspect Site

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 47 Inspect Site Inspect Site Inspect jobsite before transporting equipment. Check for the following: • changes in elevation such as hills or other open trenches • obstacles such as buildings, railroad crossings, or streams •...

  • Page 49: Classify Jobsite

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 48 Classify Jobsite Classify Jobsite Inspect Jobsite • Follow U.S. Department of Labor regulations on excavating and trenching (Part 1926, Subpart P) and other similar regulations. • Contact your local One-Call service by dialing 811 (USA only) to have underground utilities located. A One-Call referral number, 888-258-0808, is also available for both the USA and Canada.

  • Page 50: Apply Precautions

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 49 Classify Jobsite Apply Precautions Once classified, precautions appropriate for jobsite must be taken. Electric Jobsite Precautions Use one or both of these methods. • Expose line by careful hand digging or soft excavation. •...

  • Page 51: Check Supplies And Prepare Equipment

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 50 Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment Supplies • fuel • keys • personal protective equipment, such as hard hat and safety glasses • digging teeth Fluid Levels • fuel •...

  • Page 52: Drive

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Drive - 51 Drive Chapter Contents Start Unit ....... . . 52 Drive .
  • Page 53 NOTICE: • Read operator’s manual before operating equipment. Follow instructions carefully. Contact your Ditch Witch dealership for operation information or demonstration. • Wear hard hat, safety glasses, and other protective equipment required by job. Do not wear jewelry or loose clothing that can catch on controls.
  • Page 54 HT300 Operator’s Manual Drive - 53 Start Unit 5. Turn ignition switch to the run position (key on, engine off). Cold start wait indicator will light. 6. When cold start wait indicator goes off, turn ignition switch all the way clockwise to start tractor.
  • Page 55 HT300 Operator’s Manual Drive - 54 Drive Drive EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN: Press the emergency stop button to stop. 1. Verify that parking brake is disengaged. 2. Adjust throttle to about half way. 3. Adjust boom lift switch to raise boom. 4. Adjust the direction control lever to move unit forward or backward.
  • Page 56 HT300 Operator’s Manual Drive - 55 Start After Emergency Stop Start After Emergency Stop 1. Turn all panel controls in use at the moment of the emergency stop to the neutral position. 2. Turn the emergency engine stop push-button counterclockwise.
  • Page 57 HT300 Operator’s Manual Drive - 56 Start After Emergency Stop...

  • Page 58: Transport

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 57 Transport Chapter Contents Lift ........58 •...

  • Page 59: Lift

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 58 Lift Lift Crushing weight. If load falls or moves it could kill or crush you. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly.

  • Page 60: Procedure

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 59 Lift Procedure Tractor Use a crane capable of supporting the equipment's size and weight. See “Specifications” on page 121. Use the four indicated lift points (shown). j25om014t.eps...

  • Page 61: Tie Down

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 60 Tie Down Tie Down Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly. Points tie-down points are identified by tiedown decals. Securing to trailer at other points is unsafe and can damage machinery.

  • Page 62: Haul

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 61 Haul Haul Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly. NOTICE: • Read trailer operator’s manual before loading or transporting your machine. Incorrectly loaded machine can slip or cause trailer sway.
  • Page 63 HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 62 Haul 1. Fasten and adjust seat belt. 2. Start tractor. See page 54 for proper start-up procedures. 3. Raise trenching boom, but keep it low. Move ground drive speed switch to low range. 4. Release parking brake.

  • Page 64: Tow

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 63 Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly. Under normal conditions, tractor should not be towed. If tractor becomes disabled and towing is necessary: • Do not tow for more than 200 yd (180 m).
  • Page 65 HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 64 3. Wrap a chain or cable around the boom, chain and baseplates. 4. Hook one tow vehicle to tow in the front, and another in the back to aid in braking. Avoid towing over long distances.
  • Page 66 HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 65 Disconnect Brakes 1. Block tracks to immobilize unit. 2. Disconnect the hydraulic brake hoses (1) and cap the valve (2) to keep contaminants out. 3. Connect a tee between the disconnected hoses (1) to provide equal pressure to each gearbox.
  • Page 67 HT300 Operator’s Manual Transport - 66...

  • Page 68: Trench

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Trench - 67 Trench Chapter Contents Setup ........68...
  • Page 69 HT300 Operator’s Manual Trench - 68 Setup Setup EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN: Press the emergency engine stop button to stop. Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away. Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods.
  • Page 70 HT300 Operator’s Manual Trench - 69 Operation Operation Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment. NOTICE: Cutting or drilling concrete containing sand or rock containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust.
  • Page 71 HT300 Operator’s Manual Trench - 70 Operation 1. Select the desired direction and position for conveyors to run and operate them at a moderate speed. 2. Lift the trench cleaner completely. IMPORTANT: The only function of the trench cleaner is keeping the trench bottom clean. It must not be used for pushing or pulling anything.

  • Page 72: Systems And Equipment

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 71 Systems and Equipment Chapter Contents Chain, Teeth, and Sprockets ....72 • Chain and Tooth Maintenance ....... .72 Vandal Cover (Optional) .

  • Page 73: Chain, Teeth, And Sprockets

    • Use the tooth pattern most appropriate for your digging conditions. If you move to a different soil type, contact your Ditch Witch dealer for information about the most effective chain type and tooth pattern. Vandal Cover (Optional) Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage.

  • Page 74: Irregular Functions

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 73 Irregular Functions Irregular Functions Radius Control Smooth radius cut (curved) and straight-line travel are controlled by the rotary knob. Set the knob as required to cut a constant radius or to give straight-line travel. Adjustment will be necessary for different materials and when changing from high to low range, or from low to high range.
  • Page 75 HT300 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 74 Irregular Functions A typical cruise control setup is as follows: 1. Ground drive control in Low. 2. Auto-Manual switch set to Auto. 3. High-Low-Medium switch set to High. 4. Sensitivity at mid-range setting.

  • Page 76: Complete The Job

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 75 Complete the Job Chapter Contents Rinse Equipment ......76...
  • Page 77 HT300 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 76 Rinse Equipment Rinse Equipment Spray water onto equipment to remove dirt and mud. NOTICE: Do not spray water into the cab. Electrical components could be damaged. Wipe down instead. Stow Tools Make sure all tools and accessories are loaded and properly secured on trailer.

  • Page 78: Service

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 77 Service Chapter Contents Service Precautions ......78 Lubrication Overview ..... . . 79 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key .

  • Page 79: Service Precautions

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 78 Service Precautions Service Precautions Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly. NOTICES: • Unless otherwise instructed, all service should be performed with engine off. • Refer to engine manufacturer’s manual for engine maintenance instructions.

  • Page 80: Lubrication Overview

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 79 Lubrication Overview Lubrication Overview Lubrication Overview (left) INITIAL 100h 250h 500h t25om070t.eps...
  • Page 81 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 80 Lubrication Overview Lubrication Overview (right) 250h 500h t25om071t.eps...

  • Page 82: Recommended Lubricants/Service Key

    For more information on engine lubrication and maintenance, see your Cummins engine manual. NOTICE: • Use only genuine Ditch Witch parts, filters, approved lubricants, TJC, and approved coolants to maintain warranty. • Use the “Service Record” on page 129 to record all required service to your machine.

  • Page 83: Engine Oil Selection Chart

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 82 Recommended Lubricants/Service Key Engine Oil Selection Chart Select oil based on ambient temperature range expected before next oil change. Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use equipment correctly.

  • Page 84: Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 83 4 Hour 4 Hour Location Task Notes TRENCHER Lube pivot bearings left and right Lube digging chain shaft bearing Lube Pivot Bearings (Left & Right) Lube zerks with MPG every 4 hours. t25om018t.eps Lube Digging Chain Shaft Bearing...

  • Page 85: Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 84 10 Hour 10 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Check emergency engine stop Lube torque post Lube cab door hinges Check engine oil level Check engine coolant level Check air filter light Check hydraulic fluid level...
  • Page 86 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 85 10 Hour Check Emergency Engine Stop Test function of each emergency stop button (shown) every 10 hours. See “Start After Emergency Stop” on page 57. 1. Turn ignition switch to the on position but do not start the engine.
  • Page 87 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 86 10 Hour Check Engine Oil Level Check engine oil level every 10 hours. Ensure that engine oil level is correct and inspect for contamination. Typical signs of oil contamination are: • oil discoloration •...
  • Page 88 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 87 10 Hour Check Air Filter Light Check air filter light every 10 hours or more frequently if operating extremely dusty conditions. The main filter can be cleaned up to six times before replacing. The secondary filter must not be reused.
  • Page 89 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 88 10 Hour Check Hydraulic Hoses Fluid or air pressure could pierce skin and cause injury or death. Stay away. NOTICE: Escaping pressurized fluid can cause injury or pierce skin and poison. • Before disconnecting a hydraulic line, turn engine off and operate all controls to relieve pressure.
  • Page 90 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 89 10 Hour Check Gearbox and Pump Drive Check gearboxes every 10 hours. Inspect the flywheel gearbox (1), the two track gearboxes (2) and the engine pump drive (3) to spot possible leakages. The flywheel gearbox cases and the pump drive case are all equipped with an air vent, oil level tank plug and drain plug.
  • Page 91 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 90 10 Hour Check Nuts and Bolts Check nuts and bolts every 10 hours. Check that there are no loose fasteners. If any fasteners are loose, tighten them to the correct torque specifications. IMPORTANT: Check the chain digging plates retaining screws.
  • Page 92 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 91 10 Hour Trencher Lube Conveyor (Left and Right) Lube zerks with MPG every 10 hours. t25om063t.eps Lube Stabilizer Pins (Left and Right) Lube zerks with MPG every 10 hours. t25om026t.eps...
  • Page 93 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 92 10 Hour Check and Adjust Conveyor Belts Check conveyor belts every 10 hours. Ensure that belt is not excessively worn and is set at the proper tension. Too much tension will cause excessive friction between the belt and the side sills, performance loss and premature wear.
  • Page 94 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 93 10 Hour Check Tail Roller Check tail roller every 10 hours. Check that the tail roller does not show excessive wear signs and that the bearings (shown) do not have any backlash. Also make sure that the seals do not leak.
  • Page 95 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 94 10 Hour Check Digging Chain Inspect Digging Chain Inspect for excessive wear and proper tension every 10 hours. See the table below for correct chain sag (A). Measure the chain when cold with baseplates installed, measure at the point of greatest sag with the boom in a horizontal position.
  • Page 96 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 95 10 Hour Check Chain Baseplates and Tooth- stops The machine is equipped with specific-width tooth-stop plates (1). The tooth-stop plates and pockets are provided with a hard metal coating in their easily-worn parts. This coating must always be preserved to guarantee the life of the tooth-stop pocket plates.
  • Page 97 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 96 10 Hour Check Chain Sprocket Check digging chain sprocket every 10 hours. Check that the sprocket is not damaged or exceedingly worn. Replace or rotate the sprocket if the other side is not worn. Avoid any “hook”...

  • Page 98: 40 Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 97 40 Hour 40 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Inspect undercarriage pins and bushings Check cab air cleaner filters TRENCHER Check digging chain and flywheel gearbox fluid levels Lube tail roller Tractor Check Undercarriage Pins and...
  • Page 99 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 98 40 Hour Check Cab Air Cleaner Filters Check cab air cleaner and internal recirculation filter every 40 hours. Replace as necessary. t25om021t.eps Check cab air filter. Replace as necessary. t25om061t.eps...
  • Page 100 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 99 40 Hour Trencher Check Digging Chain Gearbox and Flywheel Fluid Level Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool. NOTICE: The gearbox oil expands when it is hot and can spurt out if opened. causing injury.
  • Page 101 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 100 40 Hour Check Tail Roller Lube tail roller every 40 hours. Short Boom IMPORTANT: Schedule lubrication during an idle time to prevent water from oxidizing the bearings. Remove cap and lube with MPG. IMPORTANT: t25om048t.eps...

  • Page 102: 100 Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 101 100 Hour 100 Hour Location Task Notes Tractor Check rubber mount supports Check undercarriage rollers Clean breathers Check track tension Lube hydraulic motors splined shafts Change engine air filters Change engine oil (initial) Change engine oil filter (initial)
  • Page 103 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 102 100 Hour Check Breathers Check breathers (shown) every 100 hours. Check that there are no obstructions or sediment build-ups. Clean the breathers in case of obstructions. Use an oil-based solvent. Do not carry out the operation using flammable solvents or standing near a fire, sparks or other flammable sources.
  • Page 104 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 103 100 Hour Lubricate Hydraulic Motor Splines Lubricate all hydraulic motor and flywheel gearbox drive motor splines every 100 hours. 1. Unbolt and slide motors out of position. 2. Lubricate the female spline with a heavy-duty wheel bearing grease.
  • Page 105 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 104 100 Hour Change Engine Oil and Filter (initial) Change the engine oil and filter after first 100 hours and at 250 hours. 1. Place a container, capable of holding 27 qt (26 L) of oil, below drain plug (4).
  • Page 106 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 105 100 Hour Drain Water and Sediments Drain the water and sediments from fuel tanks at 100 hours. 1. Open fuel tank valve (shown) and drain all water and sediments from fuel tank. 2. Close valve.

  • Page 107: 250 Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 106 250 Hour 250 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine oil and filter Check engine oil breather Inspect engine belts Change hydraulic fluid and filters (initial) Change Engine Oil and Filter Change the engine oil and filter after first 100 hours and at 250 hours.
  • Page 108 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 107 250 Hour Check Engine Oil Breather Check engine oil breather every 250 hours. Clean or replace as necessary. Check Engine Belts Check engine belt tension every 250 hours. Check that the air conditioner compressor belt is correctly tightened.
  • Page 109 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 108 250 Hour Change Hydraulic Fluid and Filters (Initial) Change the hydraulic fluid and filter after first 250 hours and at 500 hours. Replace the hydraulic Fluid: 1. Remove drain plug (1). Drain fluid. 2. Remove tank lid mounting bolts (2) and remove lid.
  • Page 110 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 109 250 Hour 2. Clean the external pump filter casings (shown). 3. Loosen and remove the three pump filter. 4. Install new filters. t25om055t.eps 5. Clean the external filter casings (shown). 6. Loosen and remove the filters.

  • Page 111: 500 Hour

    HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 110 500 Hour 500 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change ground drive gearbox oil Change coupler fluid Change hydraulic fluid Change hydraulic filters Check parking brakes Trencher Change digging chain gearbox and flywheel oil Change digging boom tail roller gaskets Change Ground Drive Gearbox Oil Change ground drive gearbox oil every 500 hours.
  • Page 112 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 111 500 Hour Change Hydraulic Fluid and Filters Change the hydraulic fluid and filter at 500 hours. Replace the hydraulic Fluid: 1. Remove drain plug (1). Drain fluid. 2. Remove tank lid mounting bolts (2) and remove lid.
  • Page 113 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 112 500 Hour 2. Clean the external pump filter casings (shown). 3. Loosen and remove the three pump filter. 4. Install new filters. t25om055t.eps 5. Clean the external filter casings (shown). 6. Loosen and remove the filters.
  • Page 114 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 113 500 Hour Check Parking Brakes Check the parking brake and replace the brake discs every 500 hours. t25om039t.eps...
  • Page 115 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 114 500 Hour Change Flywheel Gearbox Fluid Change flywheel gearbox fluid every 500 hours. IMPORTANT: The engine-pump/coupler, flywheel gearbox, and the two track gearboxes must be serviced at the same time. 1. Remove and inspect breathers (1,2).
  • Page 116 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 115 1500 Hour 1500 Hour Location Task Notes TRENCHER Exchange flywheel gearbox Exchange Flywheel Gearbox Schedule flywheel gearbox to be exchanged every 1500 hours. t25om049t.eps...
  • Page 117 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 116 2000 Hour 2000 Hour Location Task Notes TRACTOR Change engine coolant Change Engine Coolant Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool. NOTICE: Do not remove the pressure cap from a hot engine. Wait until the coolant temperature is below 122°...
  • Page 118 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 117 2000 Hour To Flush: Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool. NOTICE: Do not remove the pressure cap from a hot engine. Wait until the coolant temperature is below 122° F (50° C) before removing the pressure cap. Heated coolant spray or steam can cause personal injury.
  • Page 119 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 118 As Needed As Needed Location Task Notes TRACTOR Adjust track tension TRENCHER Replace conveyor belt Adjust digging chain Replace wearplate Adjust Track Tension Adjust tension as needed. Check the track chain to make sure that it is suitably tightened.
  • Page 120 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 119 As Needed 7. Remove the lateral hose-end fitting sideboards (without removing the rubber from the metal sideboards). 8. Disassemble the motor roller (left or right). 9. Remove the “old” belt or cut it if unusable.
  • Page 121 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service - 120 As Needed Replace Wearplate Replace wearplate as needed. 1. Inspect wearplate (shown). 2. Turn all battery disconnects to the off position. See “Battery Disconnects” on page 43. 3. Cut the welds holding the wearplate to the boom.
  • Page 122 HT300 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 121 HT300 Trencher Specifications HT300 Trencher t25om057t.eps Dimensions U.S. Metric Angle of approach 16° 16° Trench width, maximum single chain boom 12-18 in 305-460 mm double k boom 18-28 in 460-715 mm double chain boom...
  • Page 123 HT300 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 122 HT300 Trencher Length, transport (with trench cleaner) 6 ft. boom 358 in 9090 mm 8 ft. boom 390 in 9900 mm 10 ft. boom 417 in 10,590 mm Pitch - length from center drive sprocket to center idler...
  • Page 124 HT300 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 123 HT300 Trencher Power U.S. Metric Engine: Caterpillar C9, diesel Cooling medium: Cat EC-1 Extended Life Coolant (ELC) Injection: direct Aspiration: turbocharged Aftercooled Number of cylinders: 6 in-line Displacement 7,750.01 127 L Bore 4.33 in...
  • Page 125 HT300 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 124 HT300 Trencher Hydraulic System U.S. Metric Type: pressure and flow compensated (load sensing) Maximum flow 43.6 gpm 165 L/min Maximum pressure 2,900 psi 200 bar Ground drive: closed loop Maximum flow 43.6 gpm 138 L/min...
  • Page 126 Return damaged parts to dealer for inspection and warranty consideration if in warranty time frame. Order genuine Ditch Witch replacement or repair parts from your authorized Ditch Witch dealer. Use of another manufacturer's parts may void warranty consideration.
  • Page 127 Subject to the limitations and exclusions herein, free replacement parts will be provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for any Ditch Witch equipment or parts manufactured by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) that fail due to a defect in material or workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use (Exception: 2 years for all SK5 attachments).
  • Page 130 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service Record - 129 Service Record Service Performed Date Hours...
  • Page 131 HT300 Operator’s Manual Service Record - 130 Service Performed Date Hours...

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