ATI Lawn Mower User Manual

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Level

OPERATORS MANUAL

FOR

PARA-LEVEL - SINGLE

WITH CUSTOMER SUPPLIED

LASER CONTROLS

ATI Corporation

New Holland, PA 17557

Phone [phone] • FAX [phone]

1-800-342-0905

www.level-best.coin

OCTOBER 2007

CAT.# LBPLOM-G-1007

COPYRIGHT 2007 by
ATI Corporation
New Holland, PA 17557 U.S.A.

DISCLAIMER

THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL IS PROVIDED TO PROMOTE THE SAFE USE OF, AND
ASSIST THE OPERATOR IN ACHIEVING THE BEST PERFORMANCE FROM, THE PRODUCTS
DESCRIBED HEREIN WHEN USED FOR THE INTENDED APPLICATION.

i

MODELS

Part Model Description

Number Number

315-067-000 PL72 Box, Grader, Para-Level, Single, 6', Cylinder Only
315-068-000 PL84 Box, Grader, Para-Level, Single, 7', Cylinder Only
315-069-000 PL96 Box, Grader, Para-Level, Single, 8', Cylinder Only

000-166-407 Kit, Hydraulic, Single MEI/Mikrofyn, Includes Valve Assembly, Hoses, Fittings

and Solenoid Cable

000-166-448 Kit, Hydraulic, Single Topcon, Includes System Five Remote, Power and

Solenoid Cable (does not include Sensor Cable)

000-166-483 Kit, Hydraulic, Single Trimble, Includes Valve Assembly, Hoses, and Fittings

000-200-149 Kit, Cables, Topcon System Five, Includes Sensor/Solenoid Cable and Power/

Remote Cable

000-200-148 Kit, Cables, Trimble, Includes Junction Box with Solenoid Cable and Remote,

Sensor Cable and Power Cable

315-575-000 Tractor Hitch

NOTE: Optional accessories, Scarifier Assembly, installation and parts manual can be obtainedfrom ATI

Corporation or downloadfrom web site,

www.level-best.com.

11

--------------------------- TABLE OF CONTENTS -------------------------------

MODELS........................................................................................................................................................ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS...............................................................................................................................iii

SAFETY INFORMATION.............................................................................................................................v

Safety Precaution Definitions..................................................................................................................v

warranty..................................................................................................................................................... vi

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS........................................................................................................................vii

NOTES.........................................................................................................................................................viii

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION...................................................................................1

Purpose.................................................................................................................................................... 1

Components.............................................................................................................................................1

Control Panel....................................................................................................................................2

Rotating Laser...................................................................................................................................2

Laser Sensor......................................................................................................................................2

Cables............................................................................................................................................... 2

Hydraulic Valve................................................................................................................................3

Equipment Set-Up ...................................................................................................................................3

Tractor Grading Box.........................................................................................................................4

Job Site Set-Up........................................................................................................................................ 5

Set-Up for Level Grading.................................................................................................................6

Set-Up for Sloped Grading...............................................................................................................6

Benching And Operating......................................................................................................................... 8

Benching...........................................................................................................................................8

Benching with a Rod Eye................................................................................................................. 8

Operation.......................................................................................................................................... 9

TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................................................10

SPECIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE...............................................................................................12

Specifications.........................................................................................................................................12

Dimensions..................................................................................................................................... 12

Maintenance...........................................................................................................................................13

Storage and Transport.................................................................................................................... 13

Cables and Hoses............................................................................................................................13

Machine.......................................................................................................................................... 13

Calibration......................................................................................................................................13

Service...................................................................................................................................................13

REGISTRATION CARD..............................................................................................................................15

iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

(This page left blank)

iv

SAFETY INFORMATION

This manual is furnished to you, the owner/opera-

tor, as a guide to get the greatest benefit from your

Grading Box. ATI Corporation wants you to be
able to get the most use out of your Grading Box

through safe and efficient operation.
Before attempting to operate the Grading Box,

carefully read all sections of this manual. Be sure

that you thoroughly understand all of the safety
information and operating procedures.

safety precaution definitions

Dangers, Warnings, Cautions, and Notes are

strategically placed throughout this manual to fur

ther emphasize the importance of personal safety,

qualifications of operating personnel, and proper

use of the grading box in its intended application.

These precautions supplement and/or complement

the safety information decals affixed to the unit and
include headings that are defined as follows:

A DANGER

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or

serious injury.

Awarning

indicates a potentially hazardous situation or
practice which, if not avoided, could result in

death or serious injury.

A CAUTION

indicates a potentially hazardous situation or
practice which, if not avoided, will result in

damage to equipment and/or minor injury.

• Always allow for clearance under the cutting
edge of the machine when tuning the system
or when switching to automatic control.
Insufficient clearance could cause the machine
to lift itself off the ground as its cutting edge
attempts to achieve the programmed slope.

• Never adjust the position of the Laser Sensor
when the system is in automatic control.

• Never perform service work on your machine
or the automatic control system when the
system is in automatic control.

• Install all safety panels and guards before
operating your equipment.

• Stay clear of all moving parts when the
machine is in operation.

• Keep all people clear of the machine when it is
running.

• Keep feet and other body parts from under the
cutting edges of the machine at all times.

• Read and comply with all safety recommenda
tions of your Tractor/Skid Steer manufacturer,
as outlined in its operator and service manuals.

NOTE: References made to left, right, front, and

rear are those directions viewedfrom be
hind the power unit and grading box.

NOTE: Some equipment depicted in illustrations

may not reflect exact production model
configurations.

NOTE: All safety, operating, and servicing infor

mation reflects current production models
at the time of publication of this manual.

NOTE: Indicates an operating procedure, practice.

etc., or portion thereof, which is essential
to highlight.

• Always use caution and safe operating prac
tices when operating this equipment.

• Always set the Automatic/Manual Switch on
the Control Panel to MANUAL before leaving
the operator’s seat or whenever the machine is
not moving.

NOTE: ATI Corporation reserves the right to

discontinue models at any time, change
specifications, and improve design without
notice and without incurring obligation on
goods previously purchased and to discon
tinue supplying any part listed, when the
demand does not warrant production.

v

WARRANTY

This Laser Grading Box is designed and manufac
tured to high quality standards. ATI Corporation,
therefore, guarantees this Laser Grading Box to be
free from defect in workmanship and materials for
one (1) year from purchase date. If the machine is
used for rental purposes, the warranty is limited to
ninety (90) days.

Laser Controls, Vendored Components and Control
Valve Parts are warranted separately by their
respective manufacturers.

Does not cover normal wear or failure due to
hydraulic oil contamination.

Misuse, abuse, misapplication, and unauthorized
alterations will void this warranty.

Vi

------------------------

Figure 1. Plane of Laser Light with Components of the Automatic Control System......................................1

Figure 2. Valve Connection Details................................................................................................................ 3

Figure 3. Components of the Automatic Control System on a Skid Steer......................................................3

Figure 4. Control Panel Mounting...................................................................................................................4

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS ----------------------------

Figure 5. Components of the Automatic Control System on a Tractor

Figure 6. Method One: Align Rotating Laser with Grade Stakes....................................................................6

Figure 7. Sight Over Rotating Laser................................................................................................................6

Figure 8. Grade Stake with Elevation Mark....................................................................................................7

Figure 9. Method Two: Align Rotating Laser with Grade Stakes...................................................................7

Figure 10. Lube and Maintenance Chart.......................................................................................................14

...........................................................

5

vii

NOTES

vili

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

PURPOSE

The Level Best Laser Grading Box is a cost-effi
cient method for fine grading. Various capacities

sized to fit the skid steer or tractor with a choice of

automatic control systems are available.
The Laser Grading Box is intended to operate with

an automatic control system providing accurate
grade control. If desired, the Laser Grading Box
can be operated without an automatic control

system in one of two ways:

Without any Valve/Manifold - The cylinder can

be connected directly to the tractor or skid
steer and the Laser Grading Box operated
using the tractor or skid steer valve. Flow to
the hydraulic cylinder is restricted to improve
control. However, movement of the cutting
edge can be coarse.

With the Valve and No Control System - A

switch can be installed to operate the electric
valve from the tractor or skid steer, providing
fine control of cylinder movement. However,
raising and lowering of the cutting edge is
dependant upon operator attentiveness and
accuracy.

For the most accurate control and ease of operation,
an automatic control system is used and recom
mended. This manual is for a skid steer or tractor­mounted, single cylinder Para-Level Laser Grading
Box with customer-supplied laser controls.

NOTE: It is the responsibility of the dealer or

owner to select, install, and properly oper
ate an automatic control system on this
Laser Grading Box within the guidelines of
this manual.

Laser-guided depth control provides unmatched
measurement of plane from a single Rotating Laser.
Grade information from a Rotating Laser is pro
cessed and automatically directs the grading box’s
hydraulics to maintain the elevation of the cutting
edge.

Most automatic control systems can operate auto
matically or manually.

• In manual control, the operator watches an
indicator on the Laser Sensor or Control Panel
and uses the controls to keep the box “On
Grade”.

• In automatic control, the automatic control
system controls the box’s hydraulic cylinder to

keep the box “On Grade”.

COMPONENTS

The control system consists of 4 components:

Rotating Laser - Provides a reference Plane of

Laser Light over the job site (refer to Figure 1).
Light plane may be level or set at an angle to
match the slope of the ground.

Laser Sensor - Mounted at a specific height on a

mast on the Laser Grading Box, it determines
the difference in depth based on the Plane of
Laser Light.

1

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

Control Panel - Contains the logic of the auto

matic control system, processing data from
the Laser Sensor and, if equipped, switches
controlled by the operator.

Valve Assembly - Wired to the Control Panel,

the valve meters hydraulic oil to the hydraulic
cylinder for depth control.

Control Panel

The complexity of the Control Panel varies from

system to system. Refer to the specific brand of
system for specific details.

Rotating Laser

The Rotating Laser is the unit that creates the plane
of laser light detected by the Laser Sensor. Most
Rotating Lasers transmit a focused plane of laser
light approximately 1000 ft. (300 meters). They
are available in single grade, dual grade, and steep

slope versions. They can be quickly and easily
aligned to job site requirements without compli
cated calculation of angles.

A dual slope Rotating Laser can be configured
for level, single slope, or dual slope applications.

Simply enter the required percent of grade and
align the Rotating Laser to the axis (direction) to be
graded.

• Percent of Grade. The change in elevation for
every 100 feet (30 meters) graded.

• Slope. The change in elevation per foot
(meter).

Awarning

Never look directly into a laser light or serious
injury to the eye may occur. In general, inciden
tal exposure of the laser to the eye will not do
damage. However, avoid looking into the beam
whenever possible. Use a target for viewing the
laser spot.

Awarning

Use of any laser on a worksite is controlled by
OSHA regulations found at 29 CFR 1926.54.
be familiar with these regulations before using
any laser beacon used in conjunction with this
system. Review and understand all literature
provided with the Laser System before operat
ing.

Awarning

Laser protection devices must be provided
to all workers in the area if the laser system
exceeds five (5) milliwatts. Refer to the literature
provided with the system to determine the
power output. If unsure of the strength of the
laser system, anti-laser eye protection should be
provided to all workers.

Laser Sensor

The Laser Sensor detects the laser light generated
by Rotating Lasers. The Laser Sensor sends to the
Control Panel the location of the plane of laser
light. The Control Panel then has the valve assem
bly drive the Grading Box's hydraulics accordingly.

The Laser Sensor is mounted on the mast pole
directly above the cutting edge of the box.

Cables

Cables connect the various components together
into a system. A single cable is provided with
“open” wires at one end for attachment to the
automatic control system or an electric switch. The
other end has a 3-pin connector that mates with the
hydraulic valve connector.

A CAUTION

All cables must be secured with adequate cable
length to avoid pinching, stretching and tight
bending. Do not clamp cables to pipes or hoses
that may generate high heat.

2

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

Figure 2. Valve Connection Details

Hydraulic Valve

The hydraulic valve is mounted on the frame of the
Laser Grading Box. It is an electrically-actuated
double-acting, single-section valve. Hoses and
quick-couplers to attach it the tractor’s auxiliary
hydraulics are included with the hydraulic kit.

An electrical cable is also provided. One end of the
cable has a 3-pin connector for the valve. The other
is open and can be attached to the Control Panel of
the automatic control system as required. Refer to
Figure 2 for wiring details of the cable and conduc
tor functions.

The valve accepts a 12 VDC proportional current

signal from the Control Panel.

If you require a proportional time or 24 volt valve,
contact ATI Corporation.

EQUIPMENT SET-UP

Skid Steer Grading Box

1. Provide power to the Control Panel from the
skid steer’s electrical system. Usually this
involves a direct hookup to the battery.

2. The Laser Grading Box should be positioned
on a level area for attaching to the skid steer.
Start the skid steer and drive up to the attach
ment plate and secure per the manufacturer’s
directions. The Level Best quick-attach plate
is designed to be universal.

NOTE: If the skid steer’s pins do not fit securely

into the rectangular holes at the base of
the attachment plate, these holes can be
notched larger to accept the pins.

Figure 3. Components of the Automatic Control System on a Skid Steer

3

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

3. After installation, ensure that the Laser
Grading Box is level. The loader arms must
be completely lowered and the bucket cylin
ders set so the tires of the Laser Grading Box
are on the ground.

Verify that the Laser Grading Box is level by
observing that the main frame is horizontal
to the ground. Turn the skid steer engine
OFF when connected.

4. Mount the Control Panel on the bracket
attached to the hydraulic valve.

A CAUTION

Cables must be securely fastened and pinch/rub­points eliminated. Do not fasten to hydraulic
lines which may operate at high temperatures.
Ensure sufficient cable length to allow move
ment of the machine.

7. Connect the various cables to the control
system components.

8. If possible, set the automatic control system
to manual mode to prevent unintended
movement of the Laser Grading Box.

Awarning

Always have system in Manual setting when not
operating the skid steer.

Tractor Grading box

1. Provide power to the Control Panel from
the tractor's electrical system. Usually this
involves a direct hookup to the battery.

5. Connect the Laser Grading Box’s hydraulic
hoses with quick couplers to the auxiliary
hydraulic ports of the skid steer. The Laser
Grading Box’s hydraulic manifold is marked
“P” and “T” where the pressure and return
(tank) hoses connect.

NOTE: “P" means pressure (supply) and “T"

means tank (return). Refer to the skid steer
Owner s Manual for identifying the “P"
and “T" Auxiliary Hydraulic Ports.

6. Insert the mast pole in the holder until it rests
at the bottom of the tube. Tighten the tee
handle to secure the mast. Clamp the Laser
Sensor near the top of the mast so it is higher
than any local obstruction including the skid
steer cab or fall protection devices. (Refer to
Figure 3).

2. The Laser Grading Box should be positioned
on a level area for attaching to the tractor.
Start the tractor and back up to the Laser
Grading Box. Attach the unit with the hitch
pins supplied.

3. After installation, ensure that the Grading
Box is level. Set the pitch of the Laser
Grading Box by adjusting the top and lower
links.

Verify that the Laser Grading Box is level by
observing that the main frame is horizontal
to the ground. Turn the tractor engine OFF
when connected.

4. Mount the Control Panel on the right rear
fender of the tractor or other easily acces
sible location.

5. Connect the Laser Grading Box’s hydraulic
hoses with quick couplers to the tractor
quick couplers. The Laser Grading Box’s
hydraulic manifold is marked “P” and “T”
where the pressure and return (tank) hoses
connect.

4

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

Figure 5. Components of the Automatic Control System on a Tractor

NOTE: “P" means pressure (supply) and “T"

means tank (return). Refer to the tractor
Owner s Manual for identifying the “P"
and “T" Auxiliary Hydraulic Ports.

6. Insert the mast pole in the holder until it
rests at the bottom of the tube. Tighten the
tee handle to secure the mast. Clamp the
Laser Sensor near the top of the mast so it is
higher than any local obstruction including
the tractor cab or fall protection devices.
(Refer to Figure 5).

A CAUTION

Cables must be securely fastened and pinch/rub­points eliminated. Do not fasten to hydraulic

lines which may operate at high temperatures.
Ensure sufficient cable length to allow move
ment of the machine.

7. Connect the various cables to the control
system components.

job site set-up

The following are guidelines for setting up a
Rotating Laser for both level job sites and sloped

job sites:

• Choose a location for the Rotating Laser where
obstructions, such as trees and buildings, can
not block the plane of laser light. The Laser
Sensor needs to be able to sense the plane of
laser light at all times.

• Whenever possible, set up the Rotating Laser
and the Laser Sensor at a height above the
machine’s cab. This prevents the cab or roll
over structure from blocking the plane of laser
light as the machine moves around the job
sites.

• Be sure the Rotating Laser and Laser Sensor
are operating in compatible modes with a head
speed that is recognized by the other device.

8. If possible, set the automatic control system
to manual mode to prevent unintended
movement of the Laser Grading Box.

Awarning

Always have system in Manual setting when not

operating the tractor.

5

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

Set-Up for Level Grading

If the job site is to be level, the set-up of the
Rotating Laser is simple. Since no slope is required
in either axis, the Rotating Laser does not need to
be aligned. The Rotating Laser will provide a level
plane of laser light in all directions.

1. Locate the Rotating Laser following the
guidelines above.

2. Apply power to the Rotating Laser. Level the
Rotating Laser (some Rotating Lasers will
automatically level, others will need manual
adjustment).

3. Set the counters for both axis at 0.000% (If
needed, see the Rotating Laser Operation
Manual).

4. Bench the machine. See the “Benching and
Operating” procedure in this section.

Set-Up for Sloped Grading

If the job site is to be graded for a single or dual
slope, the Rotating Laser requires its axis to be
aligned for the job site. The Rotating Laser will
then provide a plane of laser light at the required
slope(s).

The following procedures are for two typical
examples of job sites requiring sloped grades.
Remember, each job site is unique, so consider the
following methods as guidelines and not as the only
methods possible.

Figure 6. Method One: Align Rotating Laser with Grade

Stakes

4. Set the counter on the Rotating Laser for
both axis to 0.0000% (If needed, see the
Rotating Laser Operation Manual).

5. Roughly align one of the axis to the grade
stakes by sighting over the top of the
Rotating Laser (Refer to Figure 7).

6. Align the plane of laser light.

Method One:

1. Set a minimum of two grade stakes exactly
in line with one of the axis to be graded
(Refer to Figure 6).

2. Place the Rotating Laser in line with the two
grade stakes.

3. Switch on the Rotating Laser. Level the
Rotating Laser (some Rotating Lasers will
automatically level, others will need manual
adjustment).

a. Set a grade rod with Rod Eye Receiver

on the far grade stake and adjust the rod
until the Rod Eye Receiver indicates “On
Grade.”

b. On the axis not aligned with the stakes,

enter on the Rotating Laser: 5.000%.
Allow the Rotating Laser to level itself to
this new position, if needed.

c. Check the Rod Eye Receiver again.

• If the Rod Eye Receiver indicates
“On Grade”, the plane of laser light is
aligned correctly.

6

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

• If the Rod Eye Receiver indicates the
plane of laser light is too high or too
low, have a second person rotate the
Rotating Laser on the tripod in small
steps until the Rod Eye Receiver indi
cates “On Grade.”

7. Enter on the Rotating Laser the required
percent of grade for each axis and allow the
Rotating Laser to level itself again.

8. Bench the machine. See the “Benching and
Operating Your Machine” procedure in this
section.

Method Two:

NOTE: This procedure requires that the elevations

of the grade stakes are correct and aligned
to the slope or percent of grade required.

1. Set a minimum of two surveyed grade
stakes. The stakes must have elevation
information.

4. Roughly align one of the axis to the grade
stakes by sighting over the top of the
Rotating Laser (Refer to Figure 7).

5. Set both the counters on the Rotating Laser

to the required percent of grade (If needed,
see the Rotating Laser Operation Manual).

2. Place the Rotating Laser a few feet (meters)
behind the first grade stake and in line with
one of the far grade stakes (it is not critical
to align the Rotating Laser exactly). (Refer
to Figure 9.)

NOTE: Follow the guidelines at the beginning

of this section when placing the Rotating
Laser.

3. Switch on the Rotating Laser. Level the
Rotating Laser.

Figure 9. Method Two: Align Rotating Laser with Grade

Stakes

NOTE: The Grade Rod must be held plumb for

each of the readings taken in the following
steps.

6. Establish the H.I. (height of the instrument)
for the plane of laser light.

a. Align the bottom of the Grade Rod to the

mark on the near grade stake.

b. Adjust the Rod Eye Receiver up and down

until it indicates “On Grade.”

c. Adjust the Rod Eye Receiver for any cut

or fill amount indicated by the grade stake.

• If the grade stake shows a cut, extend
the Grade Rod and Rod Eye by the
amount shown as a cut.

• If the grade stake shows a fill, lower the
Rod Eye by the amount shown as fill.

Figure 8. Grade Stake with Elevation Mark

7

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

7. Align the plane of laser light.
a. Align the bottom of a Grade Rod to the

mark on the far grade stake.

b. Check the Rod Eye Receiver.

• If the Rod Eye Receiver indicates
“On Grade,” the plane of laser light is
aligned at the correct slope.

• If the Rod Eye Receiver indicates the
plane of laser light is too high or too
low, have a second person rotate the
Rotating Laser on the tripod in small
steps until the Rod Eye Receiver indi
cates “On Grade.”

NOTE: If it was necessary to rotate the Rotating

Laser a significant amount at the far stake,

then the original reading at the near stake

may be out of tolerance. Check the set

ting again and make minor adjustments as

required.

8. Bench the machine.

NOTE: If needed, check the elevations on both the

plane of laser light and the grade stake

elevations by setting the bottom of the
Grade Rod at any stake’s grade mark and
checking the Rod Eye Receiver for the “On
Grade” indication.

Benching

1. Move the machine to an area which is close
to finish grade or, using the manual controls
on the control system, grade a small area
close to finish grade.

NOTE: Finish grade can be checked several times

during the grade process to “zero” in on

final grade.

2. If equipped, set the automatic control system
to manual.

3. Turn the Laser Sensor and Rotating Laser
ON.

4. If equipped, set the deadband tolerance to
the minimum possible.

NOTE: Use narrow deadbandfor benching.

5. Adjust the height of the Laser Sensor until it
is “On Grade”. For:

Telescoping Masts, loosen the locking knob

on the mast and raise or lower the Laser
Sensor. Tighten the locking knob when
correct.

Non-Telescoping Masts, loosen the mount

ing knob for the Laser Sensor and raise
or lower the Laser Sensor. Tighten the
mounting knob when correct.

benching and operating

Before benching, the plane of laser light must be

set at its proper slope. Benching is the process of

setting the relationship between the Laser Sensor
and the Rotating Laser or benchmark. Failure to
properly bench the system before grading will
result in an unacceptable grade.

The goal is to have the Laser Grading Box approxi
mately 1/2 full during operation. If, during rough
grading, a lot of material needs to be removed
from a site, the Laser Sensor should be set several
inches higher than finished grade. As material is
removed, the Laser Sensor can be lowered and the

site regraded. This may need to be repeated several
times until finished grade is achieved.

NOTE: Most materials graded must later be

compacted. To compensate for the com

pacting distance, lower the Laser Sensor.

This raises the cutting edge by the same
distance. The distance the Laser Sensor is
lowered depends on the material.

Benching with a Rod Eye

To bench the Laser Sensor follow the process listed
below:

1. Turn on the Rotating Laser. Attach a Rod
Eye to a measuring pole and turn on. Set the
base of the measuring pole on the benchmark

and adjust the measuring pole so the Rod
Eye emits a solid “On Grade” tone (com
pensate for slab thickness and compaction if
needed).

8

SYSTEMS FEATURES AND BASIC OPERATION

2. Find an area to be graded that is close to
specified grade. Start the skid steer or tractor,
engage the auxiliary hydraulics and move
the unit to that location. Manually raise or
lower the Laser Grading Box’s cutting edge
until it is even with the bottom of the mea
suring pole when the Rod Eye is emitting the
“On Grade” tone or resting on the ground if
already at grade.

3. Making sure the automatic control system is
set to manual and the deadband tolerance is
at its minimum, move the Laser Sensor to a
height on the mast pole where it indicates the
beam is in the “On Grade” position and is
unobstructed by any object.

Operation

After the Laser Grading Box is connected and the

automatic control system is calibrated, operation
can begin.

The operational goal is to drive over the area to

be graded with the box 1/2 full of material and the

Control Panel’s Green Light always illuminated.

1. When seated in the Operator’s seat, start the
skid steer or tractor and set the automatic
control system to operating in automatic
mode.

2. If equipped, set the deadband tolerance to a
large value.

• In some situations, the automatic control
system may require a cut deeper than the
machine can handle. The machine may
lose traction, stall the engine, or the wheel
frame will be lifted off the ground to the
maximum stroke of the cylinder as the
cutting edge tries to reach finished grade.
If this occurs, set the Auto/Manual Switch
to MANUAL and use the Raise/Lower
Switch to raise the cutting edge until the
machine can push the material. Make
multiple passes to cut the area to closer to
finished grade and then go back to AUTO
control. This allows the high spots to be
gradually removed.

NOTE: In rough grading situations, the automatic

control system can usually operate as an

“Indicate Only” system and the machine
controlled manually. After the area is rough
graded, return to automatic control.

4. After several passes with the Laser Grading
Box, stop and turn off the skid steer or trac
tor. Place the base of the measuring pole on
the graded area check grade elevation.

5. After a rough grade is achieved, reduce the
deadband tolerance to meet the job tolerance
requirements. With a tighter deadband, the
speed of the skid steer or tractor must be
decreased for optimum finish.

NOTE: Most materials graded must later be com

pacted. To compensate for the compact

ing distance, lower the Laser Sensor. This
raises the box’s cutting edge by the same
distance. The distance the Laser Sensor is
lowered will depend on the material.

3. Drive the machine forward or reverse (The
Para-Level Grading Box has front and rear
cutting edges). The automatic control system
constantly senses the plane of laser light
to maintain the cutting edge of the box at
the required elevation. Note the following
during operation:

9

TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOM POTENTIAL CAUSE REMEDY

Laser Grading Box does not raise Control Panel not turned on. Apply power.

or lower.

No hydraulic flow to Laser Grad

ing Box.

Cables not connected correctly. Refer to the automatic control

Ensure hydraulic control handle

of skid steer or tractor is in
correct position.

Ensure auxiliary hydraulics are

ON or in continuous flow

mode.

system documentation.

Move directional valve spool

manually using the overrides
on the end of the directional
valve.

Awarning

Laser Grading Box moves in

opposite direction.

be sure to stay clear of any
moving parts of the Laser
Grading box.

If the Laser Grading Box
moves, refer to Electrical
problems. If the Laser Grading
Box does not move, refer to
Hydraulic problems.

Electrical Problems

Hydraulic problems.

Hydraulic flow reversed. Confirm the pressure is going in

Refer to the automatic control

system documentation.

Confirm hydraulic flow through

the manifold and returning to
the power source through the
“T” hose.

Contact ATI Corporation for help

troubleshooting the hydraulic
manifold.

the “P” port.

10

Verify control handle is moving in

desired direction.

TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOM POTENTIAL CAUSE REMEDY

Box has trouble staying on grade. Rotating Laser out of range. Ensure Laser Sensor is within

specified operating range of
Rotating Laser.

Laser beam being reflected. Ensure Rotating Laser’s light is

not reflecting off other surfaces
(windows, windshields, mir
rors, etc.) causing multiple
readings by the Laser Sensor.

Multiple laser beams. Ensure that there are no other

lasers operating on the job site
or nearby.

Laser deadband set too narrow. Ensure the deadband tolerance is

set for rough grading.

Travel speed is too fast for grade

tolerance.

Hydraulic response too quick. Decrease the Gain Selection

Hydraulic flow reversed. Confirm the pressure is going in

Slow down.

Switch setting.

the “P” port.

11

SPECIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions

Model PL72 PL84 PL96

Box Width

Overall Width

Total Length 66 in. (168 cm)

Box Capacity, Front

Box Capacity, Rear

Weight

72 in.

(183 cm)

74.8 in.

(190 cm)

11.5 ft3

(0.33 m3)

7.0 ft3

(0.20 m3)

1530 lbs.

(694 kg)

84 in.

(213 cm)

86.8 in.

(220 cm)

13.4 ft3

(0.38 m3)

8.0 ft3

(0.23 m3)

1590 lbs.

(721 kg)

96 in.

(244 cm)

98.8 in.

(251 cm)

15.3 ft3

(0.43 m3)

9.0 ft3

(0.25 m3)

1650 lbs.

(739 kg)

12

SPECIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

The rugged and durable automatic control system
is built to last, but as with all equipment, a few
minutes of routine care, maintenance, and cleaning

can extend the life of the system.

Storage and Transport

Most often the Laser Grading Box and its hydraulic

controls remain on the machine. However, the

Control Panel, Laser Sensor, Coiled Sensor Cable

and Solenoid Cable should be stored in a safe,
protected place when not in use. Protect the cable

connections by installing any covers supplied.

Cables and Hoses

Check all cables and hoses regularly for signs of
wear and damage. Keep cable connections clean

and free from dirt and corrosion. If a cable has been

damaged, do not attempt to repair. Incorrect or poor

connections can cause damage to your automatic

control system.

Calibration

Perform periodic calibration checks of the Rotating
Laser System as outlined in its Operation Manual
to ensure accurate performance.

SERVICE

If the automatic control system is not functioning
properly, the first step is to determine the problem
component. Use the Troubleshooting Chart to
determine possible causes and remedies.

A CAUTION

The automatic control system is a highly sophis
ticated electronic system. Do not attempt repairs
to the components. Contact your local dealer if

you have any problems.

When applicable, check the hydraulic hoses. Look
for areas where the hoses could rub against each

other or another object as they expand and contract
under pressure. Check the hydraulic fittings for
tightness.

Machine

Check areas that affect the Automatic Control

system function and accuracy, such as looseness or
play in the cylinders or wear on the box’s cutting

edge. Looseness in the connection to the tractor/

skid steer, such as in the adaptor plate/3-point hitch,
will cause inaccurate depth positioning.

Also check the tractor/skid steer routinely for wear
to its components, such as loader pins and 3-point
linkage, ensuring it is operating properly.

13

SPECIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Figure 10. Lube and Maintenance Chart

14

REGISTRATION CARD

By buying this product, you, the purchaser of this product, agree to the following:

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the purchaser of this product shall indemnify and hold harmless ATI

Corporation and its authorized dealer from and against claims, damages, losses and expenses, including
but not limited to attorney’s fees, arising out of or resulting from the use of the product, provided that such

claim, damage, loss or expense is attributable to bodily injury, sickness, disease or death, or to injury to or

destruction of tangible property, but only to the extent caused by the negligent acts or omissions (Including
but not limited to misuse or alteration of the product) of the purchaser, anyone directly or indirectly

employed by the purchaser or anyone for whose acts the purchaser may be liable, regardless of whether or
not such claim, damage, loss or expense is caused in part by a party indemnified hereunder.

In claims against any person or entity indemnified under this agreement by an employee of the purchaser,

anyone directly or indirectly employed by the purchaser or anyone for whose acts the purchaser may be
liable, the indemnification obligations shall not be limited by a limitation on amount or type of damages,

compensation or benefits payable by or for the purchaser under worker’s compensation acts, disability
benefit acts or other employee benefit acts.

CUSTOMER COPY

Dealer

________
Grading Box Model # .
Control Panel Model # .
Laser Sensor Model # _
Dealer Name
Street

_____________

________

City, State, Zip ,
Telephone
Signature

____

____

DETACH AND MAIL TO ATI CORPORATION • 250 EARLAND DRIVE • NEW HOLLAND, PA 17557

MANUFACTURER’S COPY

Dealer
Grading Box Model # _
Control Panel Model #

_Date Installed .

or FAX to [phone]

Serial #

_____

Serial # _

Serial #

Fax

Date Installed

Serial #

_____

Serial # _
Laser Sensor Model # _
Customer Name
Street

_____________

____

City, State, Zip
Telephone
Signature

____

____

Serial #

Fax_

15