Maintenance
17
Before performing any maintenance
Disconnect the tractor PTO and ensure the
sprayer is adequately supported before
performing any operation on the sprayer.
AFTER EVERY TANK
Pump Oil Condition
The condition of the pump oil should be
frequently checked (eg. each time the tank
is filled) as it effects the operation of the
pump and the condition and life of the
diaphragms. If the oil becomes white (water
present in oil), it may be a symptom of
failure of one or more diaphragms. It is
necessary to
stop work
and inspect the
condition of the diaphragms. If broken, it is
necessary to replace the complete set.
Continued use with water in the oil will
cause serious damage to internal parts of
the pump.
If it is not possible to replace broken
diaphragms within one day of failure,
empty the crankcase of water and pour in
oil to stop rust from forming on the internal
components.
Oil Level
When the pump is stationary, the oil level
must correspond to the reference indicator
found on the oil sight glass (fig 2) or oil level
cap (fig 1) depending on the type of pump
(see Operations section page 9). The oil
level may vary when the diaphragm pump
is working: As the pump is started, the oil
level will initially drop and then return to
functioning level when the liquid begins to
pump.
During operation, pay attention to any drop
in the oil level:
a) If this happens during the first few hours
of operation it is normal and it is sufficient
to top up with SAE 20W/40 type oil.
b) If this happens after many hours of
operation and continues after 1 or 2 top
ups, it is a symptom of diaphragm swelling
caused by restricted suction (dirty filter,
collapsed suction hose or chemical attack
to diaphragm). In this case check the filter
and suction system and/or refer to your
Silvan dealer to check the diaphragm.
Filters
Always clean the suction filter before each
tank refill (especially if powder based
products are used) and at the end of the
day. Close the stop valve by pushing the
cap in and turning it in the direction
indicated on the cap nut, then unscrew the
filter cover to remove the filter element -
refer diagram in Operation section. Ensure
the ‘O’ ring is in good condition when
refitting.
Reassemble in reverse order.
Check and if necessary clean the basket
strainer under the tank lid before each fill.
DAILY MAINTENANCE
General
During the first few days of operation,
before starting each day check that all
hardware is tight and inspect the unit for
leaks while running and tighten all hose
clamps.
PTO Shaft
For safety considerations, it is
very
important
to inspect the condition of the
PTO guard and chains daily and to maintain
as necessary.
Grease the PTO shaft and guard with multi-
purpose grease at the time intervals shown
below. This is the amount of lubrication
recommended for normal operation. More
frequent inspection and lubrication may be
needed under very dusty conditions.
Remove the shaft from the tractor and
sprayer, slide the PTO shaft apart, clean
the telescopic tubes and female ends with
kerosene and apply multi-purpose grease
to the sliding surfaces, then reassemble.
This is most important in dusty conditions.
