7
Gauging Plow Depth
Normally, you will be plowing at the maximum depth set
by the blade; however, the plow is also equipped with a
gauge to allow you to lift the plow and determine how
high above maximum depth you are plowing.
The gauge is located on the the left side of the plow facing
the traction unit. A rod assembly runs from the gauge to
the ground. When the plow is lifted, the indicator on the
gauge moves down. Marks on the gauge show the number
of inches lower or higher than the maximum depth that
you are plowing. The gauge reads from +2 to –3 inches
(+5 to –7.6 cm), with zero being the maximum depth on
bare ground and –3 being 3 inches (7.6 cm) above
maximum depth. Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the gauge.
m–4145
1
2
Figure 5
1. Depth gauge
2. Gauge locking lever
m–4336
1
2
Figure 6
1. Gauge rod assembly
2. Parallel to the ground
When plowing bare ground, maximum depth is indicated
on the gauge as the zero mark. You can plow down to the
+1 mark, but in this case you will be contacting the
ground with the coulter axle. Plowing any lower may
damage the coulter.
When plowing grass covered ground, the gauge will read
about an inch lower than the actual depth because of the
grass. In this case, lower the plow to the desired coulter
depth and note the reading on the gauge.
If you are transporting the plow or are plowing rough
terrain, you can lock the gauge at the +2 position to keep
it from being damaged. To lock the gauge, manually raise
it to the +2 position and move the locking lever to the left.
Tips for Plowing
•
When plowing long runs it is advisable to install two
hairpin cotters through the spring and quick attach pins
on the mount plate (Fig. 7). This will ensure that the
vibration of the plow will not cause the pins to come
loose.
Note:
If your quick attach pins do not have holes in them
for the hairpin cotters, contact your dealer to obtain new
quick attach pins.
m–4056
1
Figure 7
1. Hairpin cotters
•
To reduce wear on the traction unit drive chain (if your
model has one), tighten the chain so there is only 2 in.
(5 cm) of slack on the upper span (refer to your
traction unit
Operator’s Manua
l for instructions).
•
Clean the area of trash, branches and rocks before
plowing to prevent equipment damage.
•
Always begin plowing with the slowest ground speed
possible. Increase speed if conditions permit, but do
not allow the tires or tracks to spin. Spinning the
tracks or tires will cause turf damage and place stress
on the traction unit.
•
Always use full throttle (maximum engine speed)
when plowing.
•
Always plow backwards (i.e., in reverse).
•
If your traction unit has a speed selector and a flow
divider, move the speed selector to slow (turtle) and
the flow divider to the 10 o’clock position.
•
Avoid sharp turns when plowing to increase
productivity and minimize ground disturbance.