All implements with moving parts are potentially hazardous. There is no substitute for a cautious, safe-minded
operator who recognizes the potential hazards and follows reasonable safety practices. The manufacturer has
designed this implement to be used with all its safety equipment properly attached to minimize the chance of
accidents.
BEFORE YOU START!! Read the safety messages on the implement and shown in your manual. Observe the
rules of safety and common sense!
WARRANTY INFORMATION:
Read and understand the complete Warranty Statement found in this Manual. Fill out the Warranty Registration
Form in full and return it to within 30 Days. Make certain the Serial Number of the Machine is recorded on the
Warranty Card and on the Warranty Form that you retain.
In order to reduce accidents and enhance the safe operation of mowers, Bush Hog, in cooperation with other
industry manufacturers has developed the AEM/FEMA Industrial and Agricultural Mower Safety Practices video
and guide book.
The video will familiarize and instruct mower-tractor operators in safe practices when using industrial and
agricultural mowing equipment. It is important that Every Mower Operator
mowing equipment and be able to recognize the potential hazards that can occur while operating a mower. This
video, along with the mower operator’s manual and the warning messages on the mower, will significantly assist in
this important education.
Your Authorized Bush Hog Dealer may have shown this video and presented you a DVD Video when you
purchased your mower. If you or any mower operator have not seen this video, Watch the Video, Read this
Operator’s Manual, and Complete the Video Guidebook before operating your new mower. If you do not
understand any of the instructions included in the video or operator’s manual or if you have any questions
concerning safety of operation, contact your superviso r, dealer or Bush Hog.
If you would like a VHS video tape of the video, please mail AEMVide o@alamo-grou p.com or Fax AEM VHS V ideo
at (830) 372-9529 or mail in a completed copy of the form on the back of this page to AEM VHS Video 1502 E
Walnut Street, Seguin, TX 78155. and request the VHS video version. Please include your name, mailing address,
mower model and serial number.
Every operator should be trained for each piece of equipment (Tractor and Mower), understand the intended use,
and the potential hazards before operating the equipment.
The information and material listed above along with this Operator’s Manual can assist you in meeting the OSHA
requirement for annual operator training.
OSHA TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
The following training requirements have been taken from Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations Part 1928.57 (a)
(6). www.osha.gov
Operator instructions. At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter the employer shall instruct
every employee who operates an agricultural tractor and implements in the safe operating practices and servicing
of equipment with which they are or will be involved, and of any other practices dictated by the work environment.
be educated in the operation of their
Alamo Group Ag. Division is willing to provide
one (1) AEM Mower Safety Practices Video
Please Send Me:VHS Format – AEM/FEMA Mower Operator Safety Video
Federal Laws and Regulations ........................................................................................................................1-29
Tank ...................................... .................................................................... .......................................................3-12
FITTING CONTROL UNIT IN CAB ..................................................................................................................3-12
Front End Weight ...............................................................................................................................................4-8
Power Take Off (PTO) ....................................................................................................................................... 4-8
GETTING ON AND OFF THE TRACTOR .........................................................................................................4-8
Boarding the Tractor ..........................................................................................................................................4-9
Dismounting the Tractor .....................................................................................................................................4-9
Cable Controlled Models Only .........................................................................................................................4-19
Lever Functions ...............................................................................................................................................4-19
Rotor Controls-Gear Hydraulic Machine Only ..................................................................................................4-21
High Voltage Cables ........................................................................................................................................4-25
DRIVING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT .................................................................................................4-27
Starting the Tractor ..........................................................................................................................................4-28
Brake and Differential Lock Setting ..................................................................................................................4-28
Driving the Tractor and Boom ...................... .................................................................... ................................4-29
OPERATING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT ...........................................................................................4-30
Engaging the Power Take Off (PTO) ..................... .................................................................... ......................4-31
Operating Speed and Ground Speed ..............................................................................................................4-32
Operating the Mower .......................................................................................................................................4-32
Operating the Attached Mower Heads ............................................................................................................. 4-34
Shutting Down the Attached Head ............................ ....................................... ................................................4-35
TRACTOR, BOOM, AND ATTACHED HEAD STORAGE ...............................................................................4-36
TRANSPORTING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT ...................................................................................4-37
TRANSPORT POSITION-Head Attached .............. ....................................... ... ... ............................................. 4-39
TRANSPORT POSITION-Head Removal ................. .......................................................................................4-39
Transporting on Public Roadways ...................................................................................................................4-40
Hauling the Tractor and Implement ..................................................................................................................4-42
General ..............................................................................................................................................................5-2
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM ......................................................................................................................................5-3
A careful operator is the best operator. Safety is of primary importance to the manufacturer and should be to
the owner/operator . Most accidents can be avoided by being aware of your equipment, your surroundings, and
observing certain precautions. The first section of this manual includes a list of Safety Messages that, if
followed, will help protect the operator and bystanders from injury or death. Read and understand these Safety
Messages before assembling, operating or servicing this Implement. This equipment should only be operated
by those persons who have read the manual, who are responsible and trained, and who know how to do so
responsibly.
The Safety Alert Symbol combined with a Signal Word, as seen below, is used throughout this
manual and on decals which are attached to the equipment. The Safety Alert Symbol means:
“ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!” The Symbol and Signal Word
are intended to warn the owner/operator of impending hazards and the degree of possible injury
faced when operating this equipment.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, WILL result in DEATH OR
VERY SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, COULD result in DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, MAY result in MINOR
INJURY.
Identifies special instructions or procedures that, if not strictly observed, could result in
damage to, or destruction of the machine, attachments or the environment.
NOTE: Identifies points of particular interest for more efficient and convenient operation or repair.
(SG-1)
Practice all usual and customary safe working precautions and above all---remember safety is
up to YOU
. Only YOU can prevent serious injury or death from unsafe practices.
READ, UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the following Safety Messages. Serious injury or
death may occur unless care is taken to follow the warnings and instructions stated in the
Safety Messages. Always use good common sense to avoid hazards.
(SG-2)
Si no lee ingles, pida ayuda a alguien que si lo lea para que le traduzca las
medidas de seguridad.
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit
chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
(SG-30)
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
(SG-31)
Never operate the Tractor or Implement until you have read and
completely understand this Manual, the Tractor Operator’s Manual, and
each of the Safety Messages found in the Manual or on the Tractor and
Implement. Learn how to stop the tractor engine suddenly in an
emergency. Never allow inexperienced or untrained personnel to
operate the Tractor or Implement without supervision. Make sure the
operator has fully read and understood the manuals prior to operation.
(SG-4)
The operator and all support personnel should wear hard hats, safety
shoes, safety glasses, and proper hearing protection at all times for
protection from injury including injury from items that may be thrown by
the equipment.
(SG-16)
PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO LOUD NOISE MAY CAUSE
PERMANENT HEARING LOSS! Tractors with or without an Implement
attached can often be noisy enough to cause permanent hearing loss.
We recommend that you always wear hearing protection if the noise in
the Operator’s position exceeds 80db. Noise over 85db over an
extended period of time will cause severe hearing loss. Noise over 90db
adjacent to the Operator over an extended period of time will cause
permanent or total hearing loss. NOTE: H earing loss from loud noise
[from tractors, chain saws, radios, and other such sources close to the
ear] is cumulative over a lifetime without hope of natural recovery.
(SG-I7)
Always read carefully and comply fully with the manufacturer’s
instructions when handling oil, solvents, cleansers, and any other
chemical agent.
KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING ELEMENTS to prevent entanglement
and possible serious injury or death.
(SG-24)
Never allow children to play on or around Tractor or Implement. Children can slip or fall off
the Equipment and be injured or killed. Children can cause the Implement to shift or fall
crushing themselves or others.
(SG-25)
NEVER use drugs or alcohol immediately before or while operating the
Tractor and Implement. Drugs and alcohol will affect an operator’s
alertness and coordination and therefore affect the operator’s ability to
operate the equipment safely. Before operating the Tractor or Implement,
an operator on prescription or over-the-counter medication must consult
a medical professional regard ing any side effects of the medication that
would hinder their ability to operate the Equipment safely. NEVER
knowingly allow anyone to operate this equipment when their alertne ss or
coordination is impaired. Serious injury or death to the operator or others
could result if the operator is under the influen ce of drugs or a lcohol.
(SG-27)
Prolonged operation may cause operator boredom and fatigue affecting safe operation.
Take scheduled work breaks to help prevent these potentially impaired operating
conditions. Never operate the Implement and Tractor in a fatigued or bored mental state
which impairs proper and safe operation.
(SG-32)
Use extreme caution when getting onto the Implement to perform repairs, maintenan ce and
when removing accumulated material. Only stand on solid flat surfaces to ensure good
footing. Use a ladder or raised stand to access high spots which cannot be reached from
ground level. Slipping and falling can cause serious injury or death.
(SG-33)
Avoid contact with hot surfaces including hydraulic oil tanks, pumps, motors, valves and
hose connections. Relieve hydraulic pressure before performing maintenance or repairs.
Use gloves and eye protection when servicing hot components. Contact with a hot surface
or fluid can cause serious injury from burns or scalding.
(SG-34)
DO NOT operate this Implement on a Tractor that is not properly maintained. Should a
mechanical or Tractor control failure occur while operating, immediately shut down the
Tractor and perform repairs before resuming operation. Serious injury and possible death
could occur from not maintaining this Implement and Tractor in good operating condition.
(SG-36)
Avoid contact with hot surfaces of the engine or muffler. Use gloves and eye protection
when servicing hot components. Contact with a hot surface or fluid can cause serious injury
from burns or scalding.
The rotating parts of this machine continue to rotate even after the Tractor has been turned
off. The operator shoul d remain in his seat for 60 se conds af ter the b rake has been set, the
PTO disengaged, the tractor turned off, and all evidence of rotation has ceased.
(SBM-5)
“Wait a minute...Save a life!”
Do not put hands or feet under mower decks. Blade Contact can result
in serious injury or even death. Stay away until all motion has stopped
and the decks are securely blocked up.
(SFL-2)
Do not put hands or feet under mower decks. Blade Contact can result
in serious injury or even death. Stay away until all motion has stopped
and the decks are securely blocked up.
(SGM-09)
Do not put hands or feet near the cutter bar. Blade contact can result
in serious injury. Stay away until all motion has stopped and the
mower is securely blocked up.
(SSM-1)
Do not operate the implement while wearing loose fitting clothing. Entanglement of the
clothing with the rotating elements can result in serious injury or even death. Stay clear of
all rotating elements at all times.
(SSP-03)
Each Rear Wheel must have a minimum of 1500 pound conta ct with the
surface to prevent lateral instability and possible tip-over which could
result in serious bodily injury or even death. Widen the wheel tread and
add weights if needed. Refer to the mounting instructions or call Customer Service if you
need assistance with Counterweight Procedure.
(SBM-11)
Do Not attempt to raise or lower the boom or mower head unless the Implement is secure ly
attached to the Tractor. The Implement could tip over and cause equipment damage and
possible serious injury or death. Do Not use the boom controls to assist in installing the
implement on the tractor. Raise or Lower the boom and mower head only while seated in
the Tractor operator’s seat with the seat belt securely fastened. Inadvertent contact with
the boom controls could allow a component to fall. A sudden or inadvertent fall by any of
these components could cause serious injury or even death.
Never leave the Tractor and Implement unattended while the Implement is in the lifted
position. Accidental operation of lifting lever or a hydraulic failure may cause sudden drop
of unit with injury or death by crushing. To properly park the implement when disconnecting
it from the tractor , lower the st and and put the retaining pin securely in place, or pu t a secure
support under the A-Frame. Lower the implement carefully to the ground. Do not put hands
or feet under lifted components .
(S3PT-1)
This Implement may be wider than the Tractor. Be careful when operating or transporting
this equipment to prevent the Implement from running into or striking sign posts, guard rails,
concrete abutments or other solid objects. Such an impact could cause the Implement and
Tractor to pivot violently resulting in loss of steering control, serious injury, or even death.
Never allow the Implement to contact obstacles.
(S3PT-12)
Use extreme caution when raising the Mower head. Stop the Blades from turning when the
Mower Head is raised and passersby are within 300 feet. Raising the Mower head
exposes the Cutting Blades which creates a potentially serious hazard and can cause
serious injury by objects thrown from the Blades or by contact with the Blades.
(SBM-2)
Never Leave the mower unattended while the head is in the raised
position. The mower could fall causing serious injury to anyone who
might inadvertently be under the mower
(SBM-4)
Always keep a careful lookout and use extreme care when working
around overhead obstructions. Never allow the Mower head or boom
within 10 feet of any power line. When working close to overhead
power lines consult your electric company for a safe code of operation.
(SBM-7)
The center of Gravity of Tractors equipped with a Rear-Mounted Boom
Mower is shifted to the rear and removes weight from the front wheels.
Add front ballast until at least 20% of the tractors weight is on the front
wheels to prevent rearing up, loss of steering control, and possibly
injury.
(SBM-10)
The Mower shaft speed must not - UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES - exceed 1800 RPM.
(SBM-15)
Use extreme care and Safety A wareness when using the boom mower head to mulch loose
brush or wood that has fallen on the ground from overhead trimming. DO NOT mulch this
debris if bystanders, vehicles, livestock or buildings are within 300 feet of the mower. This
cut debris can be thrown at great velocities and could result in serious injury or even death.
(SBM-17)
Equipment Operation Safety Instructions and Practices
Do not back up this implement when the boom or mower head is extended. Backing could
damage the machine or its components.
(SBM-19)
Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of equipment and
grass fires while operating, servicing, and repairing the Mower
and Tractor:
-Equip the Tractor with a fire extinguisher in an accessible
location.
-Do Not operate the Mower on a Tractor with an underframe
exhaust.
-Do Not smoke or have an open flame near the Mower and
Tractor.
-Do Not drive into burning debris or freshly burnt areas.
-Do Not attempt to mow or place the mower head close to
burning debris.
-Never allow clippings or debris to collect near drivelines,
gearboxes or hydraulic components such as valves, tanks,
pumps and motors. Periodically shut down the Tractor and
Mower and clean clippings and collected debris from the
mower deck.
(SBM-20)
Do not operate Mower if excessive vibration exists. Shut down PTO and the Tractor
engine. Inspect the Mower to determine th e source of the vibration. If Mower blades are
missing or damaged replace them immediately. Do not operate the mower until the
blades have been replaced and the Mower operates smoothly. Operating the Mower with
excessive vibration can result in component failure and broken objects to be thrown
outward at very high velocities. To reduce the possibility of property damage, serious injury,
or even death, never allow the Mower to be operated with blades missing.
Flail Mowers are capable under adverse conditions of throwing
objects for great distances (300 feet or more) and causing serious
injury or death. Follow safety messages carefully.
STOP MOWING IF PASSERSBY ARE WITHIN 300 FEET UNLESS:
-Front and Rear Deflectors, Chain Guards, or Bands are installed and in good, workable
condition;
-Mower sections or Wings are running close to and parallel to the ground without
exposed Blades;
-All areas have been thoroughly inspected and all foreign material such as rocks, cans,
glass, and general debris has been removed.
NOTE: Where there are grass and weeds high enough to hide debris that could be
struck by the blades, the area should be: inspected and large debris r emo ved, mowed at
an intermediate height, inspecte d closely with an y rema ining de bris being remo ved, and
mowed again at desired final height. (This will also reduce power required to mow,
reduce wear and tear on the Mower drivetrain, spread cut material better, eliminate
streaking, and make the final cut more uniform.)
(SFL-6)
Operate this Equipment only with a Tractor equipped with an approved rollover-protective system (ROPS). Always wear seat belts. Serious injury or
even death could result from falling off the tractor--particularly during a turnover
when the operator could be pinned under the ROPS.
(SG-7)
BEFORE leaving the tractor seat lower the implement, set the parking
brake and/or set the tractor transmission in parking gear, disengage the
PTO, stop the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to
stop. Place the tractor shift lever into a low range or parking gear to
prevent the tractor from rolling. Never dismount a Tractor that is moving
or while the engine is running. Operate the Tractor controls from the
tractor seat only.
(SG-9)
Never allow children or other persons to ride on the Tracto r or Implement.
Falling off can result in serious injury or death.
(SG-10)
Never allow children to operate, ride on, or come close to the Tractor or
Implement. Usually, 16-17 year-old children who are mature and
responsible can operate the implement with adult supervision, if they
have read and understand the Operator’s Manuals, been trained in
proper operation of the tractor and Implement, and are physically large
Do not mount or dismount the Tractor while the tractor is moving. Mount
the Tractor only when the Tractor and all moving parts are completely
stopped.
(SG-12)
Start tractor only when properly seated in the Tractor seat. Starting a
tractor in gear can result in injury or death. Read the Tractor operators
manual for proper starting instructions.
(SG-13)
Do not operate this Equipment with hydraulic oil or fuel leaking. Oil
and fuel are explosive and their presence could present a hazard. Do
not check for leaks with your hand! High-pressure oil streams from
breaks in the line could penetrate the skin and cause tissue damage
including gangrene. To check for a hose leak, SHUT the unit ENGINE
OFF and remove all hydraulic pressure. Wear oil imp ene trab le glo ves ,
safety glasses and use Cardboard to check for evidence of oil leaks. If
you suspect a leak, REMOVE the HOSE and have it tested at a Dealer.
If oil does penetrate the skin, have the injury treated immediately by a
physician knowledgeable and skilled in this procedure.
(SG-15)
Never run the Tractor engine in a closed building or without adequate ventilation. The
exhaust fumes can be hazardous to your health.
(SG-23)
Do not exceed the rated PTO speed for the Implement. Excessive PTO speeds can cause
Implement driveline or blade failures resulting in serious injury or death.
(SG-26)
Operate the Tractor and/or Implement control s only while properly seated in the Tractor seat
with the seat belt securely fastened around you. Inadvertent movement of the Tractor or
Implement may cause serious injury or death.
(SG-29)
In case of mechanical difficulty during operation, place the transmission in the park
position, set the parking brake, shut down all power, including the PTO and the engine and
remove the key. Wait until all rotating motion has stopped before dismounting.
Do Not operate this equipment in areas where insects such as bees may attack you and/or
cause you to lose control of th e equipment. If you must enter in such areas, use a tractor
with an enclosed Cab and close the windows to prevent insects from entering. If a tractor
cab is not available, wear suitable clothing including head, face, and hand protection to
shield you from the insects. Attacking insects can cause you to lose control of the tractor,
which can result in serious injury or death to you o r bystanders. Never dismount a moving
tractor.
(SG-40)
Mow only in conditions where you have clear visibility in daylight or with adequate artificial
lighting. Never mow in darkness or foggy conditions where you cannot clearly see at least
300 feet (90 m) in front and to the sides of the tractor and mower. Make sure that you can
clearly see and identify passersby, steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions,
power lines, debris and foreign objec ts. If you are unab le to clear ly see thes e type of ite ms
discontinue mowing.
(SGM-1)
There are obvious and hidden potential hazards in the operation of this
Mower. REMEMBER! This machine is often operated in heavy brush
and in heavy weeds. The Blades of this Mower can throw objects if
shields are not properly installed and maintained. Serious injury or even
death may occur unless care is taken to insure the safety of the operator,
bystanders, or passersby in the area. Do not operate this machine with
anyone in the immediate area. Stop mowing if anyone is within 300 feet
of mower.
(SGM-02)
The rotating parts of this machine have been designed and tested for rugged use.
However, the blades could fail upon impact with heavy, solid objects such as metal guard
rails and concrete structures. Such impact could cause the broken objects to be thrown
outward at very high velocities. To reduce the possibility of property damage, serious
injury, or even death, never allow the cutting blades to contact such obstacles.
(SGM-4)
Extreme care should be taken when operating near loose objects such
as gravel, rocks, wire, and other debris. Inspect the area before
mowing. Foreign objects should be removed from the site to prevent
machine damage and/or bodily injury or even death. Any objects that
cannot be removed must be clearly mark ed and car efully avo ide d b y th e
operator. Stop mowing immediately if blades strike a foreign object.
Repair all damage and make certain rotor or blade carrier is balanced
before resuming mowing.
Many varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or chains, can become entangled in the
operating parts of the mower head. These items could then swing outside the housing at
greater velocities than the blades. Such a situation is extremely hazardous and could result
in serious injury or even death. Inspect the cutting area for such objects before mowing.
Remove any like object from the site. Never allow the cutting blades to contact such items.
(SGM-06)
Mow at the speed that you can safely operate and control the tractor and mower. The
correct mowing speed depends on terrain condition and grass type, density, and height of
cut. Normal ground speed range is from 2 to 5 mph(3-8 kph). Use slow mowing speeds
when operating on or near steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power
lines, or when debris and foreign objects are to be avoided.
(SGM-07)
Avoid mowing in reverse direction when possible. Check to make sure there are no
persons behind the mower and use extreme care when mowing in reverse. Mow only at a
slow ground speed where you can safely operate and control the tractor and mower.
Never mow an area that you have not inspected and removed debris or foreign material.
(SGM-08)
Do not mow with two machines in the same area except with Cab tractors with the windows
closed.
(SGM-11)
Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of equipment and grass fires
while operating, servicing, and repairing the Mower and Tractor:
-Equip the Tractor with a fire extinguisher in an accesible location.
-Do Not operate the Mower on a Tractor with an underframe exhaust.
-Do Not smoke or have an open flame near the Mower and Tractor.
-Do Not drive into burning debris or freshly burnt area s.
-Ensure slip clutches are properly adjusted to prevent excessive slippage and plate heating.
-Never allow clippings or debris to collect near drivelines, slip clutches, and gearboxes.
Periodically shut down the T ractor an d Mo we r and cl ean clip pin gs and collected deb ris from
the mower deck.
(SGM-12)
The Mower is designed for certain mowing applications and is rated to cut up to a specific
size vegetation (see Mower Standard Equipment and Specifications). DO NOT use this
mower to cut vegetation above the Mower’s rated capacity or to cut any type of nonvegetative material. Only operate this Mower on a properly sized and equipped Tractor.
Operating this Mower in an application for which it is not designed and/or operating the
Mower with the wrong size Tractor can cause Mower component damage and equipment
failure resulting in possible serious injury or death.
Never leave the Implement and Power Unit unattended while the Implement is in the raised
position. Accidental operation of a lifting lever or a hydraulic failure may cause the
implement to suddenly fall causing serious injury or possible death to anyone who might
inadvertently be under the Implement. Lower the implement carefully to the gr ound. Do not
put hands or feet under lifted componen ts.
(SPU-3)
Do not let the Blades turn when the Mower Deck is raised for any
reason, including clearance or for turning. Raising the Mower deck
exposes the Cutting Blades which creates a potentially serious hazard
and could cause serious injury or even death from objects thrown from
the Blades.
(SRM-07)
Make sure the PTO shield, integral driveline shields, and input shields
are installed when using PTO-driven equipment. Always replace any
shield if it is damaged or missing.
(S3PT-8)
Always disconnect the main PTO Driveline from the Tractor before performing service on
the Implement. Never work on the Implement with the tractor PT O dr iveline conn ected and
running. Rotating Parts, Blades or Drivelines could turn without warning and cause
immediate entanglement, injury or death.
(S3PT-11)
Never interfere with factory-set hydraulic calibrations. Any change in calibration could
cause a failure of the equipment and may result in injury.
(SBH-13)
Relieve hydraulic pressure prior to doing any maintenance or repair work on the Implement.
Place the Mower Head on the ground or securely supported on blocks or stands, disengage
the PTO, and turn off the engine. Push and pull the control Levers or Joystick several times
to relieve pressure prior to starting any maintenance or repair work.
(SBM-6)
All Safety Shields, Guards and Safety devices including (but not
limited to) - the Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards,
Gearbox Shields, PTO integral shields , and Retractable Door
Shields should be used and maintained in good working condition. All safety
devices should be inspected carefully at least daily for missing or broken
components. Missing, broken, or worn items must be replaced at once to reduce
the possibility of injury or death from thrown objects, entanglement, or blade
contact.
(SBM-18)
Maintenance and Service Safety Instructions and Practices
DO NOT allow any person under a raised boom or mower head unless
it is securely locked up or supported. DO NOT approach the
Implement unless the Tractor is turned off and all motion has ceased.
Never work under the frame work, or any lifted component unless the implement is
securely supported or blocked up. Inadvertent contact with the controls could allow a
component to fall. A sudden or inadvertent fall by any of these components could cause
serious injury or even death.
(SBM-22)
Always maintain the safety signs in good readable condition. If th e safety signs are missing,
damaged, or unreadable, obtain and install replacement safety signs immediately.
(SG-5)
Do not modify or alter this Implement. Do not permit anyone to modify or alter this
Implement, any of its components or any Implement function.
(SG-8)
Never work under the Implement, the framework, or any lifted
component unless the Implement is securely supported or blocked up
to prevent sudden or inadvertent falling which could cause serious
injury or even death.
(SG-14)
Never attempt to lubricate, adjust, or remove material from the Implement while it is in
motion or while tractor engine is running.
(SG-20)
Periodically inspect all moving parts for wear and replace when
necessary with authorized service parts. Look for loose fasteners, worn
or broken parts, and leaky or loose fittings. Make sure all pins have
cotter pins and washers. Serious injury may occur from not maintaining
this machine in good working order.
(SG-21)
Do Not fill fuel tank while engine is running. Refuel only after engine has cooled down. If
fuel is spilled, move machine away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source
Perform service, repairs and lubrication according to the maintenance section. Ensure the
unit is properly lubricated as specified in the lubrication schedule and all bolts and nuts are
properly torqued. Failure to properly servic e, repair and maintain this Implement in good
operating condition could cause component failure and possible serious injury or even
death.
(SG-35)
Use caution and wear protective gloves when handling sharp objects such as blades,
knives, and other cutting edges. Be alert to worn component surfaces which have sharp
edges. Sharp surfaces can inflict severe laceration injuries if proper hand protection is not
worn.
(SG-37)
Replace bent or broken blades with new blades. NEVER ATTEMPT TO STRAIGHTEN,
WELD, OR WELD HARDFACING ON BLADES SINCE THIS WILL LIKELY CRACK OR
OTHERWISE DAMAGE THE BLADE WITH SUBSEQUENT FAILURE AND POSSIBLY
CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY FROM THROWN BLADES.
(SGM-10)
DO NOT weld or repair rotating mower components. Welds and other repairs may cause
severe vibration and/or component failure resulting in part being thrown from the mower
causing serious bodily injury. See your Authorized Dealer for proper repairs.
(SGM-13)
PARTS INFORMATION
Bush Hog mowers use balanced and matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts,
knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain components, and be arings. These pa rt s a re made an d tested to Bush
Hog specifications. Non-genuine "will fit" parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will
fit” parts may reduce mower performance , void warranties, and present a safety ha zard. Use genuine Bus h
Hog mower parts for economy and safety.
(SPBH-1)
SEE YOUR BUSH HOG DEALER
Be particularly careful when transporting the Implement with the Tractor. Turn curves or go
up hills only at a low speed and using a gradual steering angle. Rear mounted implements
move the center of gravity to the rear and remove weight from the front wheels. Make
certain, by adding front ballast, that at least 20 % of the tractor’s weight is on the front wheels
to prevent rearing up, loss of steering control or Tractor tip-over. Slow down on rough or
uneven surfaces to prevent loss o f steering control which could result in property damage
or possible injury. Do not transport unless 3-Point lift lever is fully raised and in the latched
transport position. Dropping implement in transport can cause serious damage to the
tractor and/or Implement and possibly cause the operator or others to be injured or killed.
Allow sufficient clearance for the Implement to swing outward while turning. Implements
carried behind the Tractor will swing outside the tire path when making turns. Contacting a
solid object while turning will cause equipment damage and possible injury.
(S3PT-20)
Be particularly careful in transport. The Mower has raised the center of
gravity for the tractor and has increased the possibility of overturn.
Turn curves or go up slopes only at low speed and using a gradual
turning angle. Slow down on rough or uneven surfaces.
(SBM-3)
When transporting Boom Mower on a truck or trailer, the height or width
may exceed legal limits when the boom is in the transport position.
Contact with side or overhead structures or power lines can cause
property damage or serious injury or death. If necessary lower boom to
reduce height and/or remove mowing head to reduce width to the legal
limits.
(SBM-8)
Never operate the Tractor and Mower Unit without an OPS (Operators
Protective Structure) or Cab to prevent injury from objects thrown from
ground or from overhead trimming. Stop mowing if workers or passersby
are within 300 feet.
(SBM-9)
Make certain that the “Slow Moving Vehicle” (SMV) sign is installed in
such a way as to be cl early visible and legible. When transport ing the
Equipment use the Tractor flashing warning lights and follow all local
traffic regulations.
(SG-6)
SAFETY
Secure the boom and mower head in the transport position before traveling on public roads.
Never transport on public roads with the boom and mower head extended. Always
disengage and lock out the hydraulic controls for the boom mower before transporting.
Inadvertent boom movement on public roads may contact with other vehicles resulting in
serious bodily injuries or even death.
Transport only at speeds where you can maintain control of the
equipment. Serious accidents and injuries can result from operating this
equipment at high speeds. Understand the Tractor and Implement and how it handles
before transporting on streets and highways. Make sure the Tractor steering and brakes
are in good condition and operate properly.
Before transporting the Tractor and Implement, determine the proper transport speeds for
you and the equipment. Make sure you abide by the following rules:
Test the tractor at a slow speed and increase the speed slowly. Apply the Brakes smoothly
to determine the stopping characteristics of the Tractor and Implement. As you increase
the speed of the Tractor the stopping distance increases. Determine the maximum
transport speed not to exceed 20 mph (30 kph) for transporting this equipment.
Test the equipment at a slow speed in turns. Increase the speed through the turn only after
you determine that the equipment can be operated at a higher speed. Use extreme care
and reduce your speed when turning sharply to prevent the tractor and implement from
turning over. Determine the maximum turning speed for you and this equipment before
operating on roads or uneven ground.
Only transport the Tractor and Implement at the speeds which allow you to properly control
the equipment.
Be aware of the operating conditions. Do not operate the Tractor with weak or faulty brakes
or worn tires. When operating down a hill or on wet or rain slick roads, the braking distance
increases: use extreme care and reduce your speed. When operating in traffic always use
the Tractor’s flashing warning lights and red uce your speed. Be a ware of traf fic around yo u
and watch out for the other guy.
(SG-19)
Your driving vision may be reduced or impaired by the tractor, cab, or implement. Before
driving on public roadways identify any limited vision areas, and make adjustments to your
operating position, mirrors, and the implement transport position so that you can clearly
see the area where you will be traveling, and any traffic that may approach you. Failure to
maintain adequate vision of the public roadway and traffic can result in serious injury or
even death.
(STI-10)
In addition to the design and configuration of this Implement, including Safety Signs and Safety Equipment,
hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence, and proper
training of personnel involved in the operation, transport, maintenance, and storage of the machine. Refer
also to Safety Messages and operation instruction in each of the appropriate sections of the Tractor and
Equipment Manuals. Pay close attention to the Safety Signs affixed to the Tractor and Equipment.
NOTE: Bush Hog supplies safety decals on this product to promote safe operation. Damage to the decals may
occur while in shipping, use, or recondition ing. Bush Hog cares about the safety of its customers, operators,
and bystanders, and will replace the safety decals on this product in the field, free of charge (some shipping
and handling charges may apply). Contact your Bush Hog dealer to order replacement decals.
DANGER! Crushing and Pinch Points.
Moving machinery parts can pinch or crush or fallwhich may cause injury or death.
P/N 02962765
WARNING! Failure to INSPECT and REPAIR or
REPLACE Hoses may allow worn Hoses to rupture
SUDDENLY and VIOLENTLY with resulting serious
BODILY INJURY from SCALDING or FIRE with
resulting BURN INJURY or DEATH.