Product Manual

Page 14 of 22
Note: The addition of an over-running PTO clutch may change the length of the PTO driveline
required. Pay extra attention to the instructions on the PTO Driveline installation. Be sure that the
driveline system guarding is adequate.
The digger’s operating power is supplied from the tractor PTO. Refer to your tractor manual for PTO
engagement and disengagement instructions. In the case of an emergency, know how to quickly stop
the tractor and the digger.
When engaging the PTO, the engine RPM should always be at idle speed. Once engaged and ready
to start digging, raise the PTO speed to 540 RPM and increase the speed as the auger drills deeper.
Hazards and Obstructions
The use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards that cannot be solely protected by the
mechanical means or product design. All operators of this equipment must read and understand this
entire manual, paying particular attention to safety and operating instructions prior to using. If there is
something in this manual that you do not understand, ask your supervisor or dealer to explain it to you.
Most accidents occur because of neglect or carelessness. Keep all helpers and bystanders at least
several hundred feet from an operating digger. Only properly trained people should operate this
machine.
When the machine is operated in populated areas where thrown objects could injure persons or
property, operation must be stopped when anyone comes within several hundred feet.
The majority of farm equipment accidents involve entanglement on the driveline, injury of bystanders
by the objects thrown by the rotating auger, and operators being knocked off the tractor by low
hanging limbs and being injured by the equipment. Accidents are most likely to occur with machines
that are loaned or rented to someone who has not read the Owner’s Manual and is not familiar with
the digger.
The digger is only designed for use on tractors with the PTO turning at 540 RPM.
Install and secure all guards and shields before starting or operating. The digger, driveline guards,
and tractor shields should be used and maintained in good working condition. They should be
inspected carefully, at least daily, for missing or broken chain links, shields, or guards. (Worn items
must be replaced at once to reduce the possibility of injury.)
Disengage the PTO shaft and place the transmission in neutral before attempting to start the engine.
Many varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or chains, can become entangled in the operating
parts of the digger. These items could then swing outside the housing at greater velocities than the
auger. Such a situation is extremely hazardous. Inspect the digging area for such objects before
digging. Remove any of these objects from the site.
Never allow the auger to contact such items. Never assume an area is clear. Always Check!
Always stop the tractor, disengage the PTO, set the brake, shut off the tractor engine, remove the
ignition key, lower the implement to the ground, and allow rotating pieces to come to a complete stop
before dismounting the tractor. Never leave the equipment unattended with the tractor running.
Never place hands or feet under the digger with the tractor engine running or before you are sure all
motion has ended. Stay clear of all moving parts.
Do not reach or place any part of your body under the equipment until it is properly secured.
Do not allow riders on the digger or the tractor at any time. There is no safe place for riders on this
equipment.