Buhler FK301 User Manual
Finishing Mower
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DESCRIPTION PAGE
WARRANTY................................................................1
INTRODUCTION .........................................................2
SAFETY.......................................................................3
Safety.....................................................................3
General Safety .......................................................4
Start Up Safety.......................................................4
Operation Safety ....................................................4
Transport Safety.....................................................5
Service and Maintenance Safety............................5
Storage Safety........................................................5
Safety Signs...........................................................6
Safety Sign Installation...........................................6
ASSEMBLY.................................................................9
Hitch Assembly Instructions ...................................9
Wheel Assembly Instructions .................................9
START UP
Machine Break-In ...................................................9
OPERATION ...............................................................10
Operating Instructions ............................................10
Field Use Preparation.............................................11
Field Operation.......................................................11
Disconnecting from Tractor ....................................12
Rear Discharge Mower Chain Kit Assembly...........12
Quick Hitch ............................................................ 12
Theory of Operation................................................13
MAINTENANCE .......................................................... 15
Maintenance...........................................................15
Bolt Torque.............................................................17
Finishing Mower
PARTS DRAWINGS....................................................18
Side Discharge Drawing.........................................18
Side Discharge Parts List.......................................19
4’ Rear Discharge Drawing.....................................22
4’ Rear Discharge Parts List...................................23
5’, 6’ & 7’ Rear Discharge Drawing......................... 25
5’, 6’ & 7’ Rear Discharge Parts List.......................26
Gearbox Drawing....................................................29
Gearbox Parts List..................................................30
Spindle Assembly Drawing.....................................31
Spindle Parts Lists..................................................32
PTO Shaft Drawing.................................................33
PTO Shaft Parts List...............................................34
Rear Discharge Chain Kit Drawing.........................35
Chain Kit Assembly Drawing..................................36
Quick Hitch Kit Drawing & Parts List.......................37
SHIPPING KIT AND BUNDLE NUMBERS .................38
Finishing Mower
WARRANTY POLICY
Buhler Manufacturing products are warranted for a period of twelve (12) months (90 days for
commercial application) from original date of purchase, by original purchaser, to be free from
defects in material and workmanship under correct, normal agricultural use and proper
applications.
Buhler Manufacturing’s obligations under this warranty shall be limited to the repair or
exchange, at Buhler Manufacturing’s option, of any Buhler Manufacturing product or part which
proves to be defective as provided. Buhler Manufacturing reserves the right to either inspect
the product at the buyer’s location or have it returned to the factory for inspection.
The above warranty does not extend to goods damaged or subject to accident, abuse or misuse
after shipment from Buhler Manufacturing’s factory, nor to goods altered or repaired by anyone
other than an authorized Buhler Manufacturing representative.
Buhler Manufacturing makes no Express Warranties other than those which are specifically
described. Any description of goods, including any references and specifications in catalogues,
circulars and other written material published, is for the sole purpose of identifying goods and
shall conform to such descriptions. Any sample or model is for illustrative purposes only and
does not create an Express Warranty that the goods conform to sample or model shown.
The purchaser is solely responsible for determining suitability of goods sold. This warranty is
expressly in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied. Buhler Manufacturing will in no
event be liable for any incidental or consequential damages whatsoever. Nor for any sum in
excess of the price received for the goods for which liability is claimed.
WARRANTY CLAIMS:
Warranty requests must be prepared on Buhler Manufacturing Warranty Claim Forms with all
requested information properly completed. Warranty Claims must be submitted within a thirty
(30) day period from date of failure repair.
WARRANTY LABOR:
Any labor subject to warranty must be authorized by Buhler Manufacturing. The labor rate for
replacing defective parts, where applicable, will be credited at 100% of the dealer’s posted shop
rate. Defective parts will receive an extra 10% discount to assist with freight or other incidental
costs.
GOVERNMENT LEGISLATION:
Warranty terms and conditions are subject to Provincial or State legislation.
IMPORTANT FACTS:
Buckets and Bucket Tines Carry No Warranty
Bent Spears Carry No Warranty
Snowblower Fan Shafts Carry No Warranty
Mower Blades Carry No Warranty
Portable Auger Parts Have Two (2) Year Warranty
Loader Parts Have Two (2) Year Warranty
IMPORTANT NOTE: This warranty does not apply to rentals
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Finishing Mower
INTRODUCTION
Buhler Farm King has been building top quality finishing mowers for 15 years and has
refined these mowers to be among the best in the industry. Manufactured with top
quality material, the edge of the mower deck features solid reinforcing rods. These
finishing mowers are Buhler Quick Hitch compatible and are available in widths ranging
from 48" to 84".
Each mower features three high-speed blades with one of the highest rated tip-speeds
in the industry. This creates powerful suction that lifts the grass for a crisp cut. A blade
overlap of 1 5/8" to 2 5/8" prevents stripping and ensures the lawn is mowed evenly.
Buhler Farm King Finishing Mowers are built to be durable and long lasting. Pneumatic
tires with puncture proof sealant are standard. Each wheel yoke assembly includes a
cutting height adjustment on the 1" wheel yoke shaft. Bushings in the wheel hubs
ensure long-term reliability without needing frequent lubrication. A slide adjustment is
located under the gearbox for easy belt tensioning.
Keep this manual handy for frequent reference. All new operators or owners must
review the manual before using the equipment and at least annually thereafter. Contact
your Buhler Dealer if you need assistance, information, or additional copies of the
manual. Visit our website at www.buhler.com for a complete list of dealers in your area.
The directions left, right, front and rear, as mentioned throughout this manual, are as
seen facing in the direction of travel of the implement.
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Finishing Mower
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Remember, YOU are the key to safety. Good safety practices not only protect you, but
also the people around you. Make these practices a working part of your safety
program. Be certain that everyone operating this equipment is familiar with the
recommended operating and maintenance procedures and follows all the safety
precautions. Most accidents can be prevented. Do not risk injury or death by ignoring
good safety practices.
The alert symbol is used throughout this manual. It indicates attention is required and
identifies hazards. Follow the recommended precautions.
The safety alert symbol means…
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
CAUTION
The caution symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
WARNING
The Warning Symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury, and includes hazards that are exposed when
guards are removed. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
DANGER
The Danger Symbol indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided will
result in death or serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme
situations, typically for machine components that, for functional purposes, cannot be
guarded.
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Finishing Mower
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Have a first-aid kit available for use and know how to use it.
Have a fire extinguisher available, stored in a highly visible location, and know how to
use it.
Wear appropriate protective gear. This list may include but is not limited to:
- Hard hat
- Protective shoes with slip resistant soles
- Protective glasses or goggles
- Heavy gloves
- Wet weather gear
- Hearing protection
- Respirator or filter mask
Read and understand the Operator’s Manual and all safety signs before operating,
servicing, adjusting, repairing, or unplugging the equipment.
Do not attempt any unauthorized modifications to your Buhler product as this could
affect function or safety, and could affect the life of the equipment.
Never start or operate the mower except from the operator’s station on the power unit.
Inspect and clean the working area before operating.
Keep hands, feet, clothing, and hair away from moving parts.
Ensure bystanders are clear of the area before operating.
START UP SAFETY
Do not let inexperienced operators or children run this equipment.
Place all tractor and machine controls in neutral before starting.
Operate only with ROPS and seatbelt equipped tractors.
Do not operate inside a building unless there is adequate ventilation.
Ensure all shields are in place and in good condition before operating.
Stay clear of PTO shaft and machine when engaging PTO.
OPERATION SAFETY
Do not permit riders.
Do not wear loose fitting clothing during operation.
Never operate over 540 PTO rpm speed.
Never operate the equipment in the raised position.
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Finishing Mower
TRANSPORT SAFETY
Review Transport Safety instructions in tractor manual before moving.
Check with local authorities regarding transport on public roads. Obey all applicable
laws and regulations.
Make sure the SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) emblem and all the lights and reflectors that
are required by the local highway and transport authorities are in place, are clean, and
can be seen clearly by all overtaking and oncoming traffic.
Never have the equipment in operation during transport.
Always travel at a safe speed.
Inflate transport tires to recommended pressure.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE SAFETY
Stop engine, set brake, remove ignition key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before
servicing, adjusting, repairing, or unplugging.
Support the equipment with blocks or safety stands before working beneath it.
Follow good shop practices including:
- Keep service area clean and dry
- Be sure electrical outlets and tools are properly grounded
- Use adequate light for the job
Use only tools, jacks, and hoists of sufficient capacity for the job.
Replace and secure all shields removed during servicing before operating.
Use heavy leather gloves to handle sharp objects.
Failure to follow proper procedures when mounting a tire on a wheel or rim can produce
an explosion, which may result in serious injury or death.
STORAGE SAFETY
Store the unit in an area away from human activity.
Do not permit children to play on or around the stored machine.
Support the frame on stands and blocks to provide a secure base.
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Finishing Mower
SAFETY SIGNS
The following illustration shows the approximate location and detail of safety signs.
Keep all safety signs clean and legible and replace any that are damaged or missing.
When original parts are replaced, any safety signs affixed to those parts should be
replaced as well. Replacement safety signs are available from your local dealer.
INSTALLATION OF SAFETY SIGNS
To install safety signs, ensure the installation area is clean and dry. Decide on the exact
position before you remove the backing paper. Remove the smallest portion of the split
backing paper and align over the specified area. Carefully press in place. Slowly peel
back the remaining paper and smooth the remaining portion in place. Small air pockets
can be pierced with a pin and smoothed out.
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Finishing Mower
FINISHING MOWER SAFETY SIGNS
Replace safety signs immediately should they become damaged, torn or illegible.
Obtain replacements from your authorized dealer using the part numbers shown.
#1 #2
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Finishing Mower
FINISHING MOWER SAFETY SIGNS – cont’d.
#3
#5
#4
#6
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Finishing Mower
HITCH ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
1. The hitch is assembled except for the two pivot bars (#70). Bolt one end of each
pivot bar between the welded brackets at the back of the deck using the bolts
assembled in the mower.
2. Remove the 3/4” bolt (#64) at the top of the hitch weldment. Using the same
bolt, assemble with the pivot bars between the hitch weldment (#38).
WHEEL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
1. The wheel and tire assemblies (Side FM - #65, Rear FM - #67) are shipped in a
separate carton. Remove the wheel bolts (Side FM - #52, Rear FM - #55) from
the four wheel yokes (Side FM - #47, Rear FM - #54). Assemble the wheels
using bolt and lock nut. Grease wheels and wheel yokes before using for the first
time.
START UP
MACHINE BREAK-IN
The following items should be checked when the implement is used for the first time:
Before operating:
Lubricate all grease points.
Remove plug in gearbox, and fill with oil to plug level.
After operating for 1/2 hour or after completing 1/2 acre (0.2 ha), stop the engine and
set the brake:
Check all nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. Tighten to their specified torque level
Check that the blades are in good condition and bolted securely to the spindle
Check that the PTO driveline shield turns freely.
Lubricate all grease points.
Check the oil level in the gearbox. Add as required.
After operating for 5 hours and after operating for 10 hours:
Repeat the items above
After these initial checks, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for regular
maintenance intervals.
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Finishing Mower
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The Finishing Mower is designed to be used on a tractor with a standard category 1
three-point hitch. See the specification sheet for horsepower requirements. Using
excessive power will shorten the life of the drive train components.
CONNECTING TO TRACTOR:
Park the mower and tractor on a level dry area free of debris and foreign objects.
1. Slowly back the tractor up to the machine.
2. Adjust the three-point arms to align with the mower lift pins.
3. Stop the tractor, set the parking brake and remove the ignition key before
dismounting.
4. Slide the three-point arms on the lift pins and lock in place with the clips
supplied.
5. With the tractor engine shut off, attach the PTO shaft. Both ends of the
PTO have a standard 6-spline end with a spring-loaded locking collar.
Turn the round collar at the ends of the PTO clockwise to slide onto the
splined shafts. The spring-loaded pin in the PTO yoke must lock into the
groove on the splined shaft on the gearbox and tractor. Always check to
see that both ends of the PTO shaft are securely attached every time the
mower is used. This should always be done with the tractor engine shut
off. Attach the safety chains supplied with the PTO shaft, allowing
sufficient slack for the driveline during turns and operation. Check booklet
attached to the PTO for instructions.
NOTE: At lease one third of the telescoping length of the PTO
should overlap when the mower is in operation.
6. Attach the top link on the tractor to the link pin assembled in the hitch
weldment (#45). Adjust the turnbuckle on the tractor top link so that the
upper lift bracket hangs straight down with the tractor and mower both on
level ground.
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Finishing Mower
FIELD USE PREPARATION
Read and understand the Operator’s Manual and all safety signs before operating.
The implement and tractor should be on a dry level area, clear of debris.
Lower the three point arms on the tractor so they line up with the mounting pins on the
implement.
Stop the engine and set the brake.
Mount the lower lift pins first and then adjust the implement angle using the turnbuckle
on the top link. Check that all the clips holding the three point pins are securely in place.
Start the engine, and raise the implement slightly.
Adjust the sway blocks or chains on the tractor so the mower is centered between the
rear wheels.
Adjust the three-point hitch arms to level the implement from side to side.
Adjust the turnbuckle on the top of the three-point hitch arms to level the implement
from front to back.
Adjust the cutting height using the wheel spacers on the wheel yokes. The spacers
should be set at the same height on all four wheels.
Check for proper air pressure in tires.
Check tightness of belts, bolts, and other hardware.
Check blades to see if they are damaged. Sharpen or replace blades if necessary.
Check that blade bolts are tight.
Clear the working area of foreign objects and check that all bystanders are standing
clear before starting.
Start the tractor with the mower resting on the ground on all four wheels.
Slowly engage the PTO and bring the speed up to 540 PTO rpm for cutting.
FIELD OPERATION
1. The mower works best on dry grass. Slower cutting speed and occasional
cleaning may be required on damp or wet grass.
2. The PTO must run at the full 540 PTO rpm for a good cut.
Slower speeds or double cutting could be required for very high grass.
3. Use a higher blade setting for rough areas to prevent scalping of the
surface.
4. Always cut counter-clockwise so grass clippings are thrown on the grass
already cut. This saves power and wear on the blades.
5. Sharpen blades if grass tears instead of cutting cleanly.
6. Slow down when cutting corners. Turning too sharply on corners can
leave a small strip of grass uncut.
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