MAINTENANCE
2160 06/11 Maintenance Section 5-22
©2011 Alamo Group Inc.
MAINTENANCE
START UP PROCEDURE
1. Read all safety instructions. Decals on the Machete Boom warn you of particular and multiple hazards.
Many decals are attached close to part of the Machete Boom where there is a possible hazard. Read and
make sure you understand the safety messages before you operate the Machete Boom. Keep all decals
clean and readable. Replace lost or damaged decals.
2. Before operating, read all the safety and operating instructions in the Operators Manual for both the
tractor and mower.
3. When the hydraulic tank has been filled and the mower unit properly assembled, the unit should be
started up. NOTE: Make sure that no materials, tools, or jacks, have been left under the mower head.
Make sure the front and rear of the mower are properly guarded to prevent any foreign objects from being
thrown by the mower. All other workers should be kept a safe distance from the unit before the mower is
started.
4. Start the tractor and idle at a slow engine speed until oil is being pumped.
5. Engage the Cutter Control Valve at low engine PTO Speed and run the mower slowly for a short period
until all air is removed from the hoses. Keep all persons WELL CLEAR of mower since Blades can
THROW OBJECTS with great velocity for a considerable distance! KEEP CLEAR!
6. With the area clear of any ground and overhead obstructions, work each cylinder on the boom one at a
time, several times, to expel any air in the Hoses and Cylinders.
7. Run the Mower Head for 5 minutes. While the tractor is idling, blocked, wearing protective clothing and
eye protection, CAREFULLY
check for leaking hydraulic fittings, hoses and ports at this point with a piece
of cardboard. DO NOT USE YOUR HAND! If any are found stop the tractor immediately and correct any
leaky connections.
8. Check the fluid level in the Hydraulic Tank on the Tractor, and add oil if required. As the air has been
forced out of the Cylinders and Hoses, it goes into the Hydraulic Tank and reduces the oil level. Check
your Tractors Operators Manual for the proper level and type of oil to be used.
STORAGE
Your rotary mower represents an investment from which you should get the greatest possible benefit.
Therefore, when the season is over, the cutter should be thoroughly checked and prepared for storage so that
a minimum amount of work will be required to put it back into operation for the next season. The following are
suggested storage procedures:
1. Thoroughly clean the cutter.
2. Lubricate the cutter as covered in Maintenance Section.
3. Tighten all bolts and pins to the recommended torque.
4. Check the cutter for worn or damaged parts. Make replacements immediately.
5. Store the cutter in a clean, dry place with the cutter housing resting on blocks.
6. Use spray touch-up enamel where necessary to prevent rust and maintain the appearance of the cutter.