Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. RT100 (1) and engine serial numbers (2)
are located as shown.
Date of manufacture
Date of purchase
RT100 serial number
Engine serial number
Front attachment serial number
Rear attachment serial number
CMW
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualOverview - 3
Intended Use
Intended Use
The RT100 is a riding trencher designed to install buried service lines of various sizes using a variety of
Ditch Witch attachments.
AttachmentMax. trench widthMax. trench depth*
M910 trencher24” (610 mm)100” (2.5 m)
M912 offset trencher24” (610 mm) center96” (2.4 m)
12” (305 mm) offset96” (2.4 m)
These units are designed for operation in temperatures typically experienced in earth moving and
construction work environments. Provisions may be required to operate in extreme temperatures. Contact
your Ditch Witch dealer.
The RT100 should be used with genuine Ditch Witch chain, teeth, and sprockets. It should be operated,
serviced, and repaired only by persons familiar with their particular characteristics and acquainted with the
relevant safety procedures.
Use in any other way is considered contrary to the intended use.
Equipment Modification
This equipment was designed and built in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
Modification of equipment could mean that it will no longer meet regulations and may not function properly
or in accordance with the operating instructions. Modification of equipment should only be made by
competent personnel possessing knowledge of applicable standards, regulations, equipment design
functionality/requirements and any required specialized testing.
CMW
Overview - 4RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Unit Components
Unit Components
1. Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)
2. Operator station
3. Control consoles
4. Engine compartment
5. Backfill blade (optional)
CMW
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualOverview - 5
Operator Orientation
Operator Orientation
1. Front of unit
2. Right of unit
Right and left sides of machine are determined by
facing front of unit while seated at the controls.
3. Rear of unit
4. Left of unit
About This Manual
This manual contains information for the proper
use of this machine. See Operation Overview for
basic operating procedures. Cross references
such as “See page 50” will direct you to detailed
procedures.
Bulleted Lists
Bulleted lists provide helpful or important information or contain procedures that do not have to be
performed in a specific order.
Numbered Lists
Numbered lists contain illustration callouts or list steps that must be performed in order.
CMW
Overview - 6RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
About This Manual
CMW
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualForeword - 7
Foreword
This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides safety information and operation
instructions to help you use and maintain your Ditch Witch equipment.
Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the equipment at all times for future reference.
If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need assistance in locating a
dealer, visit our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address:
The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Attn: Marketing Department
PO Box 66
Perry, OK 73077-0066
USA
The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to change without notice. The Charles
Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to improve equipment. Some product improvements may have
taken place after this manual was published. For the latest information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your
Ditch Witch dealer.
Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment.
CMW
Foreword - 8RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
RT100 Powershift
with Tier 4i engine
Operator’s Manual
Issue number 1.0/OM-9/13
Part number 053-2707
Copyright 2013
by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
, Ditch Witch, CMW, Roto Witch, and The Underground Authority, are registered
trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
CMW
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualContents - 9
Contents
Overview
machine serial number, information about the type of work this machine is designed
to perform, basic machine components, and how to use this manual
Foreword
part number, revision level, and publication date of this manual, and factory contact
information
Safety
machine safety alerts and emergency procedures
Controls
machine controls, gauges, and indicators and how to use them
Operation Overview
an overview for completing a job with this machine: planning, setting up, installing
product, and restoring the jobsite; with cross references to detailed procedures
Prepare
procedures for inspecting and classifying the jobsite, planning the installation path,
and preparing the jobsite for work
Drive
procedures for startup, cold start, driving, and shutdown
1
7
11
25
57
61
67
Transport
procedures for lifting, hauling, and towing
Trench
procedures for trenching
Backhoe
procedures for digging with backhoe
Drill
procedures for drilling
Systems and Equipment
chain, teeth, sprockets, and optional equipment
73
81
87
91
97
CMW
Contents - 10RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Complete the Job
procedures for backfilling and restoring the jobsite and rinsing and storing
equipment
Service
service intervals and instructions for this machine including lubrication, replacement
of wear items, and basic maintenance
Specifications
machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid
capacities
Support
the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty
consideration and training
Service Record
a record of major service performed on the machine
Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment:
•Complete proper training and read operator’s manual before using equipment.
•Contact your local One-Call (811 in USA) or the One-Call referral number (888-258-0808 in USA and
Canada) to have underground utilities located before digging. Also contact any utilities that do not
participate in the One-Call service. Mark proposed path with white paint prior to contacting One-Call or
utilities.
•Classify jobsite based on its hazards and use correct tools and machinery, safety equipment, and work
methods for jobsite.
•Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away.
•Wear personal protective equipment.
•Review jobsite hazards, safety and emergency procedures, and individual responsibilities with all
personnel before work begins. Safety videos are available from your Ditch Witch
•Replace missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs.
•Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate anything that does not look or feel right.
®
dealer.
•Do not operate unit where flammable gas may be present.
•Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question about operation, maintenance, or equipment
use.
•Complete the equipment checklist located at www.ditchwitch.com/resources/safety.
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 13
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Procedures
Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use
correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment.
Before operating any equipment, review emergency procedures and check that all safety precautions have
been taken.
EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to stop position or push remote engine stop button (if
equipped).
Electric Strike Description
Electric shock. Contacting electric lines will cause death or serious injury.
Know location of lines and stay away.
When working near electric cables, remember the following:
•Electricity follows all paths to ground, not just path of least resistance.
•Pipes, hoses, and cables will conduct electricity back to all equipment.
•Low voltage current can injure or kill. Many work-related electrocutions result from contact with less
than 440 volts.
Most electric strikes are not noticeable, but indications of a strike include:
•power outage
•smoke
•explosion
•popping noises
•arcing electricity
If any of these occur, assume an electric strike has occurred.
CMW®
Safety - 14RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures
If an Electric Line is Damaged
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are on tractor, DO NOT MOVE. Remain on
tractor and take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
•Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred. Instruct them to leave the area and contact
utility.
•Raise attachments and drive from immediate area.
•Contact utility company to shut off power.
•Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off tractor, DO NOT TOUCH TRACTOR.
Take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
•LEAVE AREA. The ground surface may be electrified, so take small steps with feet close together to
reduce the hazard of being shocked from one foot to the other. For more information, contact your
Ditch Witch dealer.
•Contact utility company to shut off power.
•Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 15
Emergency Procedures
If a Gas Line is Damaged
Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause burns. No
smoking, no flame, no spark.
Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
Follow directions carefully.
If you suspect a gas line has been damaged, take the following actions. The order and degree of action will
depend on the situation.
•Immediately shut off engine(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
•Remove any ignition source(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
•Warn others that a gas line has been cut and that they should leave the area.
•Leave jobsite as quickly as possible.
•Immediately call your local emergency phone number and utility company.
•If jobsite is along street, stop traffic from driving near jobsite.
•Do not return to jobsite until given permission by emergency personnel and utility company.
CMW®
Safety - 16RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures
If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged
Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable. Vision damage can occur.
If Machine Catches on Fire
Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the following actions. The order and degree of
action will depend on the situation.
•Immediately move battery disconnect switch (if equipped and accessible) to disconnect position.
•If fire is small and fire extinguisher is available, attempt to extinguish fire.
•If fire cannot be extinguished, leave area as quickly as possible and contact emergency personnel
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 17
Safety Alert Classifications
Safety Alert Classifications
These classifications and the icons defined on the following pages work together to alert you to situations
which could be harmful to you, jobsite bystanders or your equipment. When you see these words and
icons in the book or on the machine, carefully read and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT
STAKE.
Watch for the three safety alert levels: DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION. Learn what each level
means.
indicates a 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.
indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate
injury.
Watch for two other words: NOTICE and IMPORTANT.
NOTICE indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related (e.g., messages relating to
property damage).
IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job easier in some way.
CMW®
Safety - 18RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Machine Safety Alerts
Machine Safety Alerts
Runaway possible. Machine could run over you or
1
2
3
others. Learn how to use all controls. Start and operate only from
operator’s position.
Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be
injured or killed. Only operator is allowed on machine.
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 19
Machine Safety Alerts
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
4
Rollover possible. If machine rolls over, you could
5
be thrown from seat and killed or crushed. Wear seat belt.
Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all
6
controls before operating machine. When you see this sign on
the machine or in the manual, read it and use caution. Your safety
is at stake.
CMW®
Safety - 20RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
Attachment Safety Alerts
A920
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
1
Crushing weight could cause death or serious
2
injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 21
Attachment Safety Alerts
M910
Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious
1
2
3
4
injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away.
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
Turning shaft will kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay
away.
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
CMW®
Safety - 22RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
M912
Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious
1
2
3
4
injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away.
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
CMW®
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualSafety - 23
Attachment Safety Alerts
Turning shaft will kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay
If engine shutdown indicator comes on,
press to delay engine shutdown for 30
seconds.
7. Steering column tilt control
8. Dig/drive control
9. Auxiliary outlet
10. F-N-R lever
11. Horn
*optional
This control allows a temporary
override of engine shutdown.
NOTICE: After 30 seconds,
engine will again shut down
unless fault condition has been
cleared on diagnostic gauge.
CMW
RT100 Powershift Operator’s ManualControls - 27
Center Console
ItemDescriptionNotes
2. Graphic displayGraphic symbols are displayed for
indicators and conditions previously
shown with gauges.
3. Ignition switchTo start engine, insert key and turn
clockwise.
To stop engine, turn counterclockwise.
c00ic027w.eps
4. Axle lock switchTo lock rear axle, press top.
To unlock rear axle, press bottom.
5. Service Brake To stop tractor, press.
See more information in
“Graphic Display” on page 30.
IMPORTANT: If engine does not
start on first attempt, check that
all interlock requirements have
been met, return switch to
STOP, and try again.
NOTICE: To prevent mechanical
damage, stop tractor before
operating axle lock switch.
IMPORTANT: After pressing
switch to unlock axle, it may be
necessary to move tractor 6’ (2
m) in reverse to fully unlock.
To move tractor, release.
6. Foot throttleTo increase engine speed when
driving, press.
To reduce engine speed when driving,
release.
IMPORTANT:
•With dig/drive control in dig,
increasing engine speed
also increases digging chain
speed. This throttle control
provides a temporary
override (increase only) of
the hand throttle control
setting.
•With dig/drive control in
drive, increasing engine
speed also increases
ground drive speed.
CMW
Controls - 28RT100 Powershift Operator’s Manual
Center Console
ItemDescriptionNotes
7. Steering column tilt
control
To adjust tilt, pull.
To secure steering column in position,
IMPORTANT: Tilt steering
column up before pivoting
operator’s seat.
release.
c00ic037w.eps
8. Dig/drive controlSelects dig or drive settings.
IMPORTANT: Before changing
between dig and drive settings,
•To select dig, move forward. Use
do the following:
this position for trenching.
•To select drive, move back. Use
this position for driving.
•Stop tractor.
•Move F-N-R lever into the
center or neutral position.
•Move hand throttle to low
idle.
9. Auxiliary outletProvides power for other equipment.Power output is 12V, 5A.