9
7. The tractor’s top lift link should be extended or retracted until the chain case is vertical
when lowered to the normal operating position. The universal drive shaft must have an
equal offset in each joint (see photo in Proper PTO Shaft Alignment section in this manual).
As an example, if the front joint is offset 6 degrees the rear joint must also have a 6 degree
offset. Should the rear joint be offset 4 degrees or 8 degrees the cutter head will not run at
a constant speed and will vibrate excessively. Operating the ditcher in this condition will
cause drive shaft, shear bolt and chain failures.
PROPER PTO SHAFT ALIGNMENT
The tractor’s top lift link should be extended or retracted until the chain case is vertical when
lowered to the normal operating position. The drive line must have an equal offset in each joint.
See photo below. As an example, if the front joint is offset 4 degrees or 8 degrees, the cutter
head will not run at a constant speed and will vibrate excessively. Operating the Ditcher in this
condition will cause drive line, shear bolt, and chain failures.
