McConnel ECON HEDGEMASTER Mk3, Operator'S Manual

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10
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Delivery
In most cases the tractor will be delivered with the Hedgemaster factory fitted. If this is not
the case, refer to the relevant section on fitting.
Before using this machine for the first time,
remove the transport locking bar . It is a
good idea to start the tractor and operate the Hedger’s in-cab controls for five or ten
minutes, in a clear open area, just to familiarise yourself with how the machine responds.
(Refer to the relevant controls section for further information).
You should be able to
position the cutting head directly where you want it without looking at the controls. When
you can do this you are ready to start work.
The machine is started and stopped by means of the tractor PTO. The PTO should be
operated at 540 rpm MAXIMUM. Do not over-rev.
Run rotor up to speed before starting to cut.
Select a low gear (Ll or L2), set cutting head to top off hedge at required height and start to
cut, keep forward speed slow to start off with and allow yourself enough cutting time to
operate the controls and adjust the position of the cutting head.
Transportation
When travelling down the road, the cutting head should be carried with the flails facing
towards the tractor. The first arm should be vertical and the second and third rams should
be carefully closed until the skid bears against the ram guard plate on the first arm and the
roller drops into the vee-notch, in the footstep. The second ram may have to be extended
a small amount until the cutting head skid is just below the footstep to provide adequate
ground clearance under the motor guard, but do not jam the skid against the step. The
breakaway ram may have to be operated to pull the cutting head back into this position. Fit
the transit bar.
NOTE: When preparing to work, ensure the transportation locking bar is removed,
before attempting to operate the machine.
Cutting Head Front Guard
The guard is secured by 4 bolts which locate in the notched slots, to change the guard
position, loosen the bolts, slide the guard forward out of the notch, move to required
position and relocate in notch, retighten bolts.
When cutting heavy growth, the guard should be in the raised position. For verge mowing
or cutting tight growth, the guard should be in the lowered position.