Connecting and Using Implements with the Tractor http://www.titanmachinery.com/files/titanmachinery2/images/planting-eq.jpg Set 5 Marissa Morton SAAIP Top Jobs Intern Hitching and the Center of Gravity Pulling a load with the downward and rearward force above the tractor’s center of gravity will result in a rear overturn. Hitch only to the drawbar! Hitching anywhere else can lead to a rear overturn and death! http://www.nstmop.psu.edu/tasksheets/5.1%20Connecting%20Implements%20to%20the%20Tractor.pdf Hitching Safely If your foot slips from the clutch while hitching to a machine, a helper could be crushed! If you have never used a particular implement, ask for a demonstration before you try the job. Using 3-Point Hitch Implements Make sure you know how wide the implement is compared to the tractor Be sure the machine is in “transport” or “up” position for travel on public roadways. Lower the machine to the “field” position when you are ready to use it. Engage the machine operation mechanism (levers, pins, etc) for the wheels to power the machine if you are using a ground-driven machine. A qualified operator should demonstrate this procedure for each machine. Begin field operation of the machine by paying attention to field boundary fences and obstacles. Using 3-Point Hitch Implements (cont.) Allow space at ends of rows or fields to left the equipment with the 3-point hydraulic lift Do not make turns with a 3-point hitch implement in or on the ground Backing a 3-point hitch implement while it is lowered onto the ground can plug the seed drops of the planter. Lift the implement before reversing the direction you are going to prevent possible damage to the implement or 3-point hitch draft and lift arms Lift the implement to the transport position before using public roads or passing through narrow farm gates. Ground driven implements operated on roadways can damge the road surface Making PTO Connections PTO Speeds—designed to rotate at 540 rpm or 1,000 rpm. Dual speed PTO’s may reach 630-1,170 rpm. PTO Splines—by counting the number of splines or teeth, the operator can identify the speed of the PTO in rpm’s PTO Sizes—PTO stub shaft diameter for 540 rpm shaft is 1 3/8 inch and the 1,000 rpm stub shaft with 21 teeth is 1 3/8 inch PTO—Adult Responsibilities Be sure implement is in working order Be sure that all safety features are in place Be sure the work area has no hazards Be sure the youth has long hair tied up out of the way, has non-skid shoes, and snug-fitting clothes. Hearing protection is recommended as well. PTO Entanglements: Generally involve the operator 78% of the time Occurred when shielding was absent/damaged in 70% of the cases Were at the PTO coupling, either at the tractor or implement connection nearly 70% of the time Involved a bare shaft, spring loaded push pin, or through bolt component at the point of contact nearly 63% of the time Occurred with stationary equipment 50% of the cases Involved semi-stationary equipment 28% of the time Happened mostly with incidents involving nonmoving machinery at the time of the incident Occurred 4% of the time when no equipment was attached to the tractor Precautions When Using Hydraulics For safe and correct operation, remember these 3 points: 1. Clean Oil Needs 2. Heat Generated By Use 3. Oil Leaks Under Pressure http://www.landini.ca/101/landinicanada/images/compact/comp06.bmp Connecting Hydraulic Hoses to Couplers Use the following steps: – Use gloves or a wipe cloth to remove dirt and grit from the couplers – Remove the dust covers from the couplers – Push the couplers together until the lock ring snaps the two parts securely. Disconnecting Hydraulic Hoses Use the following steps: – Relieve the static pressure – Push back on the lock ring – Remove the hydraulic hose – Replace the dust caps on each connector – Hang the hoses on the implement – Keep hoses off the ground Electrical Needs Lights—added for nighttime operation, repair work, and warning signals on public roadway transport Electrical Sensors—measure equipment operation functions Monitors—signal operator when machine function is disrupted Warning Devices—activated when reverse gear sounds alarm. Horns and lights warn bystanders of actions Convenience Outlets—using wiring harness, permit connection to trailer or wagon for proper lighting on public roads Using Electrical Connections Turn powered device to “off” Wipe away moisture and dirt before connecting Lift protective cover to make connection Align the prongs or plugs. Do not force connections together Grip connector body. Do not pull cord! Consult Operator’s Manual for more info.