Alamo Industrial Swingtrim, Operator'S Manual

Page: 94 / 126

OPERATION
SWINGTRIM 03/09 Operation Section 4-18
© 2009 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERA
T
ION
8. OPERATING THE IMPLEMENT
8.1 Machine Controls
Four levers individually control the operating functions; the knobs of which are color-coded according to use
i.e. Red, Yellow, Green and Black which control the reach, lift, angle and cutterbar on/off respectively. Moving
the lever away from the operator will result in the following responses - Reach out, Lift down, Angle up and
Cutterbar start.
Before commencing work, find an unobstructed level site and operate the machine through its entire range of
movements to familiarize yourself with the controls and the machines response to them. This is a wise
precaution for all operators and a must for the inexperienced.
The swingtrim’s swingover feature allows it to be operated on both sides of the tractor without any rebuilding or
operator adjustments. However, to achieve the best cutting action, the cutterbar mounting is designed to pitch
the knife downwards at eight degrees. This is maintained throughout the operating range except when the
cutterbar is pointing upwards during operations with its back to the hedge and therefore some deterioration in
the quality of cut can be expected. If it is necessary to carry out a considerable amount of work in these
positions, the topping performance can be improved by shortening the top link. This will tilt the machine
forward thus altering the approach angle of the cutterbar.
The geometry also results in considerably less reach being available for ground cutting on the left hand side.
In addition, be aware that the geometry, depending on the length of draft links and the size of the tractor’s
wheels may allow the cutterbar to foul the tractor tires; therefore extra care should be taken when positioning
the cutterbar for close in ground cuts. Also check carefully that there is clearance between the arms and
tractor’s roll bar/cab before executing the “swing over” maneuver.
The operation of the arms takes priority on the oil flow and will cause the knife to slow down during arm
movements. If cutting material which is towards the limit of the swingtrim’s capabilities, avoid making arm
adjustments while cutting is taking place as there is a likelihood that the knife will stall.
The Swingtrim is a light hedge trimming tool.
Attempting to cut unsuitable material will cause the knife to stall resulting in the tractor’s relief valve blowing
and overheated oil.