Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. RT80Q (1) and engine serial numbers (2)
are located as shown.
CMW
Date of manufacture
Date of purchase
RT80Q serial number
Front attachment serial number
Rear attachment serial number
Trailer serial number
Engine serial number
RT80Q Operator’s ManualOverview - 3
Intended Use
Intended Use
The RT80Q is a riding trencher designed to install buried service lines of various sizes using a variety of
Ditch Witch attachments.
AttachmentMax. width/diameterMax. depth
H810 trencher24” (610 mm) 93” (2.4 m)
H813 trencher12” (305 mm)58.4” (1.5 m)
H832 plown/a36” (915 mm)
RC80 reel carrier84” (2.1 m) reel diametern/a
H853 combo12” (305 mm)69” (1.8 m)
A820 backhoe18” (460 mm) bucket89” (2.2 m)
HD630 sawSee manufacturer’s specifications
This unit is 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.
Use in any other way is considered contrary to the intended use.
The RT80Q 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.
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.
The protection offered by the Rollover Protective System (ROPS) will be impaired if it has been subjected
to any modification, structural damage, or has been involved in an overturn accident. The ROPS must be
replaced after a roll-over.
CMW
Overview - 4RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Unit Components
Unit Components
23
4
1
5
t33om026w.eps
1. Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)
2. Operator station
3. Control console
NOTICE: The protection offered by the Rollover Protective System (ROPS) will be impaired if it has
been subjected to any modification, structural damage, or has been involved in an overturn accident.
The ROPS must be replaced after a roll-over.
4. Engine compartment
5. Backfill blade (optional)
CMW
RT80Q 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 - 6RT80Q Operator’s Manual
About This Manual
CMW
RT80Q 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 - 8RT80Q Operator’s Manual
RT80Q
with Tier 4 engine
Operator’s Manual
Issue number 1.1/OM-7/14
Part number 053-2708
Copyright 2013, 2014
by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
, Ditch Witch, CMW, Roto Witch, and The Underground Authority, are registered
trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
This product is covered by one or more of the following patents: U.S. D640290, D640291, and D640292
with other U.S. and foreign patents pending.
CMW
RT80Q 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
29
63
67
73
Transport
procedures for lifting, hauling, and towing
Trench
procedures for trenching
Plow
procedures for plowing
Reel Carrier
procedures for using reel carrier/winder
Saw
procedures for sawing
79
91
97
105
109
CMW
Contents - 10RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Backhoe
procedures for digging with backhoe
Drill
procedures for drilling
Systems and Equipment
chain, teeth, sprockets, and optional equipment
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
113
117
125
133
135
179
197
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®
RT80Q 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 - 14RT80Q 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®
RT80Q 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 - 16RT80Q 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®
RT80Q 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 - 18RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Machine Safety Alerts
Machine Safety Alerts
Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious
1
2
3
injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain
proper safety equipment.
Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all
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.
Rollover possible. If machine rolls over, you could
be thrown from seat and killed or crushed. Wear seat belt.
CMW®
RT80Q Operator’s ManualSafety - 19
Machine Safety Alerts
Runaway possible. Machine could run over you or
4
5
6
7
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.
Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool
or wear gloves.
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
8
CMW®
Safety - 20RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
Attachment Safety Alerts
A820 T4
1
2
3
CMW®
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
Crushing weight could cause death or serious
injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.
RT80Q Operator’s ManualSafety - 21
Attachment Safety Alerts
H810
Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious
1
2
3
injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away.
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
CMW®
Safety - 22RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
H813
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
1
Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious
2
3
injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away.
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
CMW®
RT80Q Operator’s ManualSafety - 23
Attachment Safety Alerts
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
4
CMW®
Safety - 24RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
H832
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
1
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
2
Crushing weight could cause death or serious
3
4
injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
CMW®
RT80Q Operator’s ManualSafety - 25
Attachment Safety Alerts
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
5
CMW®
Safety - 26RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
H853
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
1
Crushing weight could cause death or serious
2
3
4
injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.
Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
CMW®
RT80Q Operator’s ManualSafety - 27
Attachment Safety Alerts
Moving digging teeth will cause death or serious
5
injury. Trench cave-in can cause you to fall. Stay away.
CMW®
Safety - 28RT80Q Operator’s Manual
Attachment Safety Alerts
RC80
Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information.
1
Crushing weight could cause death or serious
2
injury. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.