Howard ROTAVATOR 200 Operating Instructions Manual page 4

Rotavator 200
AT ALL TIMES
• Use the Rotavator only for the purpose for which it has
been designed, and in accordance with the instructions
in this operators manual.
• Ensure that only responsible, properly instructed people
operate this machinery. Inexperienced operators will
require training, followed initially by careful supervision.
• Children are not permitted to operate this machinery.
• Keep children well clear and appropriately supervised
when connecting/disconnecting the tractor, operating or
maintaining this machinery.
• Do not wear clothes that are loose fitting or with drawstring
ties which can catch in moving parts.
• Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
Boots are a minimum, however if your tractor is not fitted
with a controlled environment cab you may also need
protection from prolonged exposure either to noise, dust
or sunlight.
• Interpret 'Left' and 'Right' as if seated in the operators
seat and facing forward.
BEFORE OPERATION
• Read and understand this manual.
• The tractor to be connected to the Rotavator:
- Must be the tractor that the Rotavator has been
commissioned to operate with. Check that it has been
correctly maintained and has not been re-configured
(for example front weights removed etc) which may
reduce stability and control.
- Consult the Tractor Manufacturers Manual for
instructions on mounting implements and safe working
methods.
- Is recommended to be fitted with a Roll Over Protection
System (ROPS).
- Must be one the operator is familiar with.
• Prior to starting the tractor ensure the PTO is disengaged
and the tractor is in neutral.
• Do not allow anyone to stand between the tractor and
Rotavator while backing the tractor up to attach it.
- Quick hitch systems are recommended for both Safety
and convenience.
- Before attempting to connect the universal drive shaft
to the tractor, lower the Rotavator to the ground, stop
the tractor, apply the park brake and remove the key.
• Visually inspect the Rotavator and check:
- Hitch pins and drive shaft are secure.
- No components are excessively worn, cracked or
otherwise defective and all bolts are tight.
- Guards, covers, warning labels and safety devices are
all correctly fitted and operative.
- Maintenance as per schedule has been carried out.
- No tools or other unsecured items have been left on
the Rotavator.
• Practice operation of the tractor and Rotavator
combination.
- Take sufficient time to become completely familiar with
all controls, particularly those required to bring both
tractor and Rotavator to an emergency stop if so
required.
- Progress slowly initially and check stability, steering and
braking are satisfactory.
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• Ensure the work area is clear, especially of children or
animals.
• Inspect the work area for hidden obstructions which may
constitute a hazard.
DURING OPERATION
• Ensure the work area is clear, especially of children or
animals.
• Do not attempt to start the tractor or engage the PTO
until correctly seated in the driver's seat.
• Never leave the tractor running unattended.
• Do not allow passengers on the Rotavator. [Or on the
tractor unless approved seating is available.]
• Never attempt to make adjustments or perform
maintenance functions while the Rotavator is operating.
• Observe all safe driving procedures:
- Reduce speed when working on sloping ground or
during sharp turns.
- Do not attempt to work on steeply sloping ground where
there is a risk of the tractor overturning.
- Do not attempt to work near the edge of drop-offs or
banks.
- Avoid sudden starts and stops.
• After striking an obstacle, stop the tractor and implement
and inspect it for damage. Repair as necessary before
continuing.
• Disengage the PTO when transporting the implement or
when not in use.
• When halting operation, even temporarily, lower the
Rotavator to the ground, stop the tractor, apply the park
brake and remove the key.
• Allow the Rotavator sufficient time to cool down before
performing any maintenance, or changing gears in the
Selectaspeed gearbox. [Oil and other transmission
components may be hot enough to inflict burns.]
• Note:
- By virtue of its mode of operation it is not possible to
totally enclose a Rotavator with guards.
- Contact with the blades while operating can result in
severe injury or death.
- Do not allow anybody (operators, maintenance
personnel, bystanders or especially children) anywhere
near the blades whilst the implement is operating. Note
that children will often be attracted to placing objects
into the blades if you leave it running - this machine is
not a toy.
- Be aware that Rotavator blades will not only cut, but
drag limbs etc. into further danger.
- Ensure that all shielding is in place before operating. If
guards are removed for maintenance work, ensure they
are replaced correctly upon completion. Repair or
replace any damaged guards.
- NEVER place hands or feet under the Rotavator, nor
endeavour to make any repairs or adjustments while
the blades are rotating; they are capable of inflicting
serious injury.
- NEVER touch the blades or attempt to free any jammed
obstacle while the tractor engine is running. The clutch
may be slipping and removal of any obstruction may
allow the blades to rotate, the result possibly being
serious injury.