Mertz 999-848.01, Operator'S Manual

Page: 38 / 90

3-12
Pre-Start Inspection and Operation
Machine Travel Controls
• Levers and controls should return to the neutral position when they are released.
• Make sure that all of the controls are in the neutral (middle) position before starting the
engine.
• Operate the controls gradually and smoothly. Excessive speed and quick control movements
without regard for working conditions could cause an unsafe situation.
• Make sure to maintain your grip on both of the hand grips any time the machine is in motion.
NOTE: Due to the spring tension system built into the track drive system as a safety
mechanism, the machine can be put into an extreme situation during which the drive sprocket
will bypass the rubber track guide holes causing a popping noise, called “cogging”. This
situation is part of the track drive systems safety design, and indicates that this portion of the
safety system is functioning properly.
The “cogging” condition is most likely to occur while operating in a reverse direction pulling a
heavy load, and during the first 50 hours of track usage. It is caused by the tension spring being
fully compressed due to high track load.
If a cogging condition occurs, immediately stop machine travel and auxiliary functions and
reverse travel direction slightly to de-compress track tension. Continued cogging will cause the
track drive sprocket to seat into the rubber track incorrectly, and cause damage to the track. If
cogging occurs, stop travel function and check for and remove any debris or foreign matter in
the drive system, check track for proper tension as shown in Section 4 of this manual, and
resume operation.
Forward Travel Reverse Travel
Push both control
levers forwards to
travel straight
forward. The
farther these are
moved, the faster
the machine will
travel. See
Figure
3–13 .
2217
Figure 3–13
Forward Travel
Pull both control
levers backwards
to travel straight
backwards. The
farther these are
moved, the faster
the machine will
travel. See
Figure
3–14 .
2218
Figure 3–14
Reverse Travel
WARNING