Minden Machine Shop Inc.
1302 K Road Minden, NE
800-264-6587 / 308-832-0220
Helicopter Tank Mounting - "Z" Bar
The Helicopter tanks come in numerous configurations, so
the installation instructions will cover a broad range of tractor
makes and models. Generally, the installation will be similar
for all tractor makes and models. These directions are for the
"Z " bar configuration.
1.
To begin, mount the side plates of the Helicopter Tanks
to the frame of the tractor. All the fasteners are in the
kit. While mounting the main brackets to the tractor
frame, leave the mounting bolts loose as this will aid
later in the installation process. Generally, the
Helicopter Tank kit will have a right and left side.
2.
Install the center section if the Helicopter Tank kit came
with one. Leave the fasteners loose for now.
3.
With the left and right plates installed and the center
section in, tighten the bolts. Tighten the frame bolts first
and then tighten the bolts in the center section. See the
torque chart for correct torque value for the size of bolt.
4.
Locate the left "Z" bar, 6 - 1"x 3-1/2"" bolts, lock
washers, and nuts. Install the left bar on the left side of
the undercarraige assembly. The "Z" bar will slightly
angle towards the front of the tractor. The outside end
of the bar will need to be supported until the 1" bolts,
lock washers, and nuts are tightened (See Diagram).
Tighten all fasteners. Repeat for the opposite side.
5.
Install the transition mount. Install the six 1" x 10"
bolts, lock washers, and nuts. Do not tighten at this
time. With the bolts installed, slide the transition mount
into place. The transition will but up against the tube of
the "Z" bar. Once in place, tighten the 1" bolts. Repeat
for the other side.
6.
Install the tank saddle onto the transition. Locate the 8 -
3/4" x 2-1/2" bolts, lock washers, and nuts. Attach the
tank saddle to the transition. See the diagram.
7.
Install the poly tanks into the saddles. Center the tanks
so the tank bungs are centered in the tank saddle
opening. Have the gallons scale of the tanks facing the
towards the tractor operator seat.
8.
When the tanks are in place, install the tank straps to
hold the tanks in place. Be sure to install the straps in
the correct area of the tank. The tank straps are held in
place with 1/2" j-bolts. The flat side of the "J" bolts go
towards the tank. Tighten the straps to the tanks. After
the first fill of the tanks, it may be necessary to retighten
the tank straps.
9.
After the first 20 hours of operation, re-torque all of the
bolts. Then, after every 100 hours of operation,
re-torque the bolts.
Center Section
Side Plate
"Z" Bar
Transition
Tank Saddle
Poly Tank
1" x 3-1/2" Bolt
Nut, and Lockwasher
1" x 10" Bolt, Lock
Washer
and Nut
3/4" x 2-1/2"
Bolt, Lock Washer,
Nut
Front of
Tractor
NOTE:
Some models of "Z" bar saddle tanks will come with a tie
rod that will have to be installed. The tie rod will install
at the top of the "Z" bar bracket (above the hood of the
tractor) to add stability for larger tank options.
Side Plate
Helicopter Tanks
16