Vermeer RTX100 Operator's Manual
Vermeer RTX100 Operator's Manual

Vermeer RTX100 Operator's Manual

Trencher
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RTX100
Trencher
Operator's
Manual
RTX100_o2_02
Serial No. 1001-
Order No. 105400BN3
Cabled Assembly No. 296338869

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Summary of Contents for Vermeer RTX100

  • Page 1 RTX100 Trencher Operator’s Manual RTX100_o2_02 Serial No. 1001- Order No. 105400BN3 Cabled Assembly No. 296338869...
  • Page 2: Notice To Owner

    This manual explains the proper operation of your machine. Study and understand these instructions thoroughly before operating or maintaining the machine. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage. Consult your Vermeer dealer if you do not understand the instructions in this manual, or need additional information.
  • Page 3 NOTE: Right and left sides of the machine are determined by facing in the direction of forward travel. The attachment is at the front. RADEMARKS VERMEER and VERMEER Logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company. Honda is a trademark of Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
  • Page 4 EXTENDED WARRANTY OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. WARRANTY TERMS During the Limited Warranty period specified above, any defect in material or workmanship in any warranted item of Vermeer Industrial Equipment not excluded below shall be repaired or replaced at Vermeer's option without charge by any authorized independent Vermeer dealer.
  • Page 5: Exclusions And Limitations

    Transportation costs, if any, of transporting to the Vermeer dealer. Freight costs, if any, of transporting replacement parts to the Vermeer dealer. The travel time of the Vermeer dealer’s service personnel to make a repair on the retail purchaser’s site or other location. In no event shall Vermeer’s liability exceed the purchase price of the product,...
  • Page 6: Parts Warranty

    Depreciation damage caused by normal wear, lack of reasonable and proper maintenance, failure to follow operating instructions, misuse, lack of proper protection during storage. (13) Accessory systems and electronics not of Vermeer’s manufacture are warranted only to the extent of such manufacturer’s respective Limited Warranty if any. (14) Downhole toolage is not covered under this warranty.
  • Page 7 NO DEALER WARRANTY. The selling dealer makes no warranty of its own and the dealer has no authority to make any representation or promise on behalf of Vermeer or to modify the terms or limitations of this warranty in any way.
  • Page 8 This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 9 ___ Check that machine does not move when the ground drive lever is in NEUTRAL and engine is at full throttle. ___ Check that digging chain does not move when digging chain drive lever is in NEUTRAL and engine is at full throttle. RTX100 Trencher Receiving and Delivery Report i...
  • Page 10: Engine

    Review and demonstrate with the customer the various aspects of tractor operation: ___ overall explanation of how the machine works ___ overall explanation of how trencher works ___ tractor and trencher safety ___ preparing the machine and trencher for operation ii Receiving and Delivery Report RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 11: Dealer/Customer Information

    EALER USTOMER NFORMATION dealer owner address address city city state / province state / province zip / postal code zip / postal code country country RTX100 Trencher Receiving and Delivery Report iii...
  • Page 12: Machine Identification

    ACHINE DENTIFICATION UMBERS ECORD Machine Model Number ________________ Machine Serial Number ________________ ONDA NGINE DENTIFICATION UMBERS ECORD Engine Model Number _________________ Engine Serial Number _________________ iv Receiving and Delivery Report RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 13: Kohler Engine Identification Numbers - Record

    OHLER NGINE DENTIFICATION UMBERS ECORD Engine Model Number _________________ Engine Serial Number _________________ RTX100 Trencher Receiving and Delivery Report v...
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  • Page 15: Table Of Contents

    Fiber Optic........40-7 Jump-Starting (Electric Start Option) ....22-4 RTX100 Trencher Table of Contents vii...
  • Page 16 Hourmeter - Check for Maintenance Interval ... . 60-2 Maintenance Intervals......60-3 viii Table of Contents RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 17: Safety Messages

    Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. AFETY YMBOL XPLANATION This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol is used in combination with an exclamation mark or other symbols to alert you to the potential for bodily injury or death. RTX100 Trencher Safety Messages 10-1...
  • Page 18 WARNING: Check machine before operating. Machine must be in good operating condition and all safety equipment installed and functioning properly. WARNING: Wear personal protective equipment. Dress properly. Refer to “Personal Protection,” page 40-2. WARNING: Keep spectators away. 10-2 Safety Messages RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 19 Wait for leaking to stop before disconnecting the fitting. Fluid injected under the skin must be removed immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury. RTX100 Trencher Safety Messages 10-3...
  • Page 20 WARNING: Failure to follow any of the preceding safety instructions or those that follow within this manual, could result in serious injury or death. This machine is to be used only for those purposes for which it was intended as explained in this Operator’s Manual. 10-4 Safety Messages RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 21: Intended Use

    Section 15: Intended Use The RTX100 is a self-propelled rubber tire or track machine intended to be used solely to produce an open trench in a continuous operation with rearward motion of the machine. The RTX100 backfill blade attachment is intended to be used solely to push earthen material, typically to return excavated material back into the trench.
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  • Page 23: Controls

    Vertical position ..... electrical system ON Clockwise from vertical position ....starts engine Key returns to vertical position when released. RTX100 Trencher Controls 20-1...
  • Page 24 Push forward ..... . . increase engine RPM Pull back ......decrease engine RPM 20-2 Controls RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 25 Pull back ......variable speed reverse NOTE: Lever must be in NEUTRAL before engine will start. RTX100 Trencher Controls 20-3...
  • Page 26 Operator Presence Lever (left side) Pull red lever under handlebar grip to allow engine to run when Ground Drive Control or Digging Chain Drive Control is engaged. Handlebars Pivot handlebars to steer, rotating rear of machine in direction of push. 20-4 Controls RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 27: Engine Controls - Honda

    Slide lever left ....... . .close valve (3) Rope Start Pull rope to crank engine for starting. Switch on machine dash must be ON to start. RTX100 Trencher Controls 20-5...
  • Page 28: Engine Controls - Kohler

    Slide lever left ....... . . close valve (3) Rope Start Pull rope to crank engine for starting. Switch on machine dash must be ON to start. 20-6 Controls RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 29: Starting Procedure

    IMPORTANT: If engine fails to start in three attempts, turn switch OFF and check for fuel blockage or problems with ignition system. Step 8: Reduce throttle to idle. Do not operate engine under load until engine has warmed up. For cold weather starting, refer to Engine Cold Weather Starting in this section. RTX100 Trencher Starting Procedure 22-1...
  • Page 30: After Engine Starts

    NOTE: This system is intended to help you operate the machine safely and must be maintained in good, functional condition. • Check that machine does not move with Propel Lever in NEUTRAL. • Check that trencher digging chain does not turn with Digging Chain Drive Control in NEUTRAL. 22-2 Starting Procedure RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 31: Cold Weather Starting

    Gradually increase engine RPM, and allow hydraulic oil to warm up for 30 minutes. NOTE: Reduce engine speed if hydraulic pump whines. Pump noise may indicate lack of oil which can damage the pump. IMPORTANT: Do not spray starting fluid into the air cleaner. Engine damage can result. RTX100 Trencher Starting Procedure 22-3...
  • Page 32: Jump-Starting (Electric Start Option)

    Vehicles in contact have a ground connection which allows a spark to occur at the battery when the positive jumper cable is connected or removed. If equipped with battery caps, they must be in place and tight to reduce risk of battery explosion. 22-4 Starting Procedure RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 33: Avoid Battery Burns

    Call a physician immediately. Jump-Starting Procedure WARNING: Battery post, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. RTX100 Trencher Starting Procedure 22-5...
  • Page 34 NOTE: To avoid sparks near battery, disconnect black jumper cable at point (4) frame before adjusting red cable at point (1). Boost battery Step 3: Start engine. Step 4: Remove cables in REVERSE order and install covers over cable clamps. Install battery access cover. 22-6 Starting Procedure RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 35: Shutdown Procedure

    Step 4: Push Off/On Switch to OFF to shut off engine (recoil start). Turn Keyswitch to OFF and remove key (electric start option). Shut off fuel valve to prevent flooding of the carburetor. Step 5: RTX100 Trencher Shutdown Procedure 23-1...
  • Page 36 If pin does not go all the way through, push the unit forward or backward slightly until pin will fully engage. Remove pin and place in bracket vertically (2) before moving machine. 23-2 Shutdown Procedure RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 37: Transporting The Machine

    Section 30: Transporting the Machine RIVING THE ACHINE WARNING: Rollover can crush. Do not allow anyone to ride on machine. WARNING: Runover can crush. Keep feet away from wheels or tracks. RTX100 Trencher Transporting the Machine 30-1...
  • Page 38 Step 6: Use Propel Lever (3) to move machine. IMPORTANT: Until the operator has become familiar with the controls and understands the capability of the machine, use a slower ground speed to move machine. 30-2 Transporting the Machine RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 39: Steering The Machine

    Set throttle to half speed. Use Propel Lever to move machine. Step 5: Drive machine squarely onto trailer. Step 6: Stop machine when tie-down position is reached. The tie-down position distributes weight on the trailer as recommended by the trailer manufacturer. RTX100 Trencher Transporting the Machine 30-3...
  • Page 40: Unloading

    Starting Procedure, page 22-1. Step 5: Set Throttle to half speed. Use Propel Lever to move machine off the trailer. Step 6: NOTE: Hook (3) is intended for use with Vermeer TLR series trailers. 30-4 Transporting the Machine RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 41: Lifting

    NOTE: Minimum required working load limit per sling leg is 1000 lb (450 kg). Minimum sling leg length is 6 ft (2 m). Step 3: Use suitable equipment to lift and lower machine onto the transport vehicle. Step 4: Fasten machine to transport vehicle using tie-downs. RTX100 Trencher Transporting the Machine 30-5...
  • Page 42: Emergency Towing

    NOTE: Do not exceed 1–2 mph (2–3 km/h) when towing. Step 4: After towing, tighten tow valves (3); torque to 9–10 ft-lb (12.2–13.6 Nm). Install left side cover (2) and Step 5: bolts (1) before placing machine back into service. 30-6 Transporting the Machine RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 43: Preparing Machine And Work Area

    Become familiar with the controls, operation and use of the machine under the supervision of a trained and experienced operator. The operator must be familiar with the workplace’s safety rules and regulations, and must be mentally and physically capable of operating the machine safely. RTX100 Trencher Preparing Machine and Work Area 40-1...
  • Page 44: Personal Protection

    Other workers in the immediate area must also wear hard hats, hearing, and eye protection. Wear close-fitting clothing and confine long hair. Avoid wearing jewelry, such as rings, wristwatches, necklaces, or bracelets. 40-2 Preparing Machine and Work Area RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 45: Sound And Vibration Levels

    NOTE: The stated sound levels are representative for a given operating condition. Operating conditions may vary at each jobsite. The actual sound levels for your application and operating conditions may be different. *Information not available at time of printing. RTX100 Trencher Preparing Machine and Work Area 40-3...
  • Page 46: Operator Presence Switch - Check

    The ground drive and attachment drive controls must be returned to NEUTRAL before restarting the engine. The Operator Presence system is intended for your safety and must be maintained in good functional condition. Contact your Vermeer dealer if it does not function properly. REPARE THE WARNING: Keep spectators away.
  • Page 47: Underground Utility Contact

    Utilities will then mark their underground facilities by using the following international marking codes: Electric Green/Brown Sewer Yellow Gas, Oil or Petroleum White Proposed Excavation Orange Communication, Telephone, TV Pink Surveying Blue Potable Water RTX100 Trencher Preparing Machine and Work Area 40-5...
  • Page 48: Look For Evidence Of Underground Placement

    Some circuit breakers automatically reset. Do not assume power has been permanently disconnected until you confirm that the utility company has locked out power to that line. 40-6 Preparing Machine and Work Area RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 49: Gas

    Do not look into the end. Fiber optic cables carry laser light which may damage your eyes. If you are not sure what kind of cable it is, do not look into the end. Contact appropriate utility company for assistance. RTX100 Trencher Preparing Machine and Work Area 40-7...
  • Page 50: Jobsite Assessment

    The operator or job foreman should inspect jobsite for: • notices of underground placements • manhole covers • drop boxes • recent trenching activity • any evidence of possible underground placements • banks, overhangs, drop-offs, and trenches 40-8 Preparing Machine and Work Area RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 51 Do not operate this machine in an area with flammable dust or vapors. Carbon monoxide fumes from the engine can asphyxiate. Operate only outdoors or provide adequate ventilation if indoor operation is essential. RTX100 Trencher Preparing Machine and Work Area 40-9...
  • Page 52: Prepare The Machine

    Keep pressure washer stream away from machine controls and electrical/electronic devices. Compressed air can also push moisture through some connector and component seals. Do not point air nozzle directly at seal areas. 40-10 Preparing Machine and Work Area RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 53: Operating The Trencher

    Operator Presence Lever must also stop the engine. Contact your authorized independent Vermeer dealer if system requires repair or adjustment. Ensure you are familiar with the location and function of each control before operating the machine. Refer to “Controls,”...
  • Page 54: Trenching Tips

    Some digging conditions, such as mixed aggregate rock that fractures easily and crumbles, may go better with a combination cup cutter and rotary cutter setup. • Contact your Vermeer dealer for optimal chain setup in your area. • Do not overload engine while trenching.
  • Page 55: Trenching

    Line up machine at beginning of trench. Step 1: Step 2: If equipped with trench cleaner, follow Shutdown Procedure, page 23-1. If not so equipped, proceed to Step 5. RTX100 Trencher Operating the Trencher 50-3...
  • Page 56 Use Propel Lever (7) to move machine slowly towards the operator. Step 9: If using a trench cleaner, follow “Trench Cleaner - Adjust,” page 50-5, instructions. Step 10: Adjust ground speed for the best productivity when the required trench depth has been reached. 50-4 Operating the Trencher RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 57: Trench Cleaner - Adjust

    Return Propel Lever to NEUTRAL to stop machine travel. Step 1: Step 2: Raise trencher slowly. When the chain is out of the ground, move Digging Chain Drive Lever to NEUTRAL. Step 3: Reduce engine speed to idle. RTX100 Trencher Operating the Trencher 50-5...
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  • Page 59: Backfill Blade (Option)

    Backfill Blade Spacer Assembly 296312896 has been installed. Installation instructions are included with spacer assemblies purchased from Vermeer Parts Center. The backfill blade is not intended for machines that do not have this assembly installed. The block supplied with this kit is 3/8˝...
  • Page 60: Backfill Blade - Install/Remove

    Remove backfill blade before trenching; install it to backfill. Move Propel Lever to NEUTRAL. Step 1: Step 2: Move Trencher Digging Chain to STOP. Step 3: Raise trencher boom. Step 4: Reduce engine speed to IDLE. Shut off engine. Step 5: 55-2 Backfill Blade (Option) RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 61 Insert pin into one of three holes (2) depending on desired working width. IMPORTANT: When changing angle after blade is installed on machine, raise blade enough to remove contact with the ground before adjustment. RTX100 Trencher Backfill Blade (Option) 55-3...
  • Page 62 Step 9: 700IF239 To remove blade: Step 1: Follow Steps 1–5 under “Backfill Blade - Install/Remove,” page 55-2. Pull and turn pin (5) to release blade. Step 2: Step 3: Slide blade out of pocket. 55-4 Backfill Blade (Option) RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 63: Backfill Blade Operation

    Refer to “Backfill Blade - Install/Remove,” page 55-2. Trench Step 3: Once trench is completely backfilled, drive with one track or set of tires on trench to compact soil. RTX100 Trencher Backfill Blade (Option) 55-5...
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  • Page 65: Maintenance Intervals

    Refer to Shutdown Procedure, page 23-1, for instructions. Visually inspect machine daily before starting the machine. Make no modifications to your equipment unless specifically recommended or requested by Vermeer Corporation. AFETY IGNS Safety signs located on your machine contain important and useful information that will help you operate your equipment safely.
  • Page 66: Maintenance Manual

    For example, at the first 20 service hours, display will flash “oil change”. To reset display, place tip of included wand (2) against dot (3). In several seconds the display will stop flashing. 60-2 Maintenance Intervals RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 67: Maintenance Intervals

    NTERVALS = Initial maintenance on new machine. Regular maintenance interval may be different. Initial = Regular maintenance interval. For Vermeer maintenance replacement part numbers, refer to the Parts Manual or call your Vermeer dealer. Maintenance Interval - Service Hours 10 or...
  • Page 68 Hydraulic System - Check Neutral Start Interlocks - Check Safety Signs Maintenance Fuel Filter (Kohler) - Replace Valve Clearance (Kohler) - Check/Adjust Starter Motor Drive (Kohler - if equipped) - Service Combustion Chamber (Kohler) - Decarbonize 60-4 Maintenance Intervals RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 69 Digging Chain - Maintain Digging Chain Drive Sprocket - Replace Digging Chain - Adjust Digging Chain - Remove/Install Digging Chain Wear - Check Cutters - Replace Trench Cleaner/Restraint Bar - Adjust Track Tension - Adjust Tracks - Replace RTX100 Trencher Maintenance Intervals 60-5...
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  • Page 71 Jump-Starting Procedure, 22-5 Electricity, 40-6 Kohler Engine Identification Numbers - Record, v Emergency Towing, 30-6 Engine Controls - Honda, 20-5 Engine Controls - Kohler, 20-6 Lifting, 30-5 Engine, 22-3 Loading, 30-3 Look for Evidence of Underground Placement, 40-6 RTX100 Trencher Index...
  • Page 72 Prepare the Machine, 40-10 Preparing Machine and Work Area, 40-1 Receiving and Delivery Report, i Safety Messages, 10-1 Safety Signs, 60-1 Safety Symbol Explanation, 10-1 Shutdown Procedure, 23-1 Sound and Vibration Levels, 40-3 Starting Procedure, 22-1 Starting the Engine, 22-1 Index RTX100 Trencher...
  • Page 73: Revision History

    Updated Honda engine, miscellaneous updates, Kohler engine not o2_00 12/10 currently available Added Kohler engine option and electric start Keyswitch, o2_01 04/11 miscellaneous updates o2_02 02/12 Section 20 Update recoil start switch and control panel decal RTX100 Trencher Revision History...
  • Page 74 The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Copyright 2010–2012. All rights reserved. Vermeer Corporation 1210 Vermeer Road East, P.O. Box 200 Pella, Iowa 50219-0200...

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