Chapter 1: General Safety Rules ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
Chapter 2: Setting Up The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER ................................................................................................ 6
Chapter 3: Operating The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER ................................................................................................. 14
Chapter 4: Maintaining The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER.............................................................................................. 17
Chapter 6: Parts Lists and Schematic Diagrams .................................................................................................................................. 24
Conventions used in this manual
This indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not followed, will result in death or serious injury.
This indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
This indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
This information is important in the proper use of your machine. Failure to follow this instruction could result in damage
to
our machine or property.
Serial Number and Order Number
A Serial Number is used to identify your machine and is located on the Serial Number Label on your machine. An Order Number
is used to check and maintain your order history and is located on the upper left portion of your packing slip. For your
convenience and ready reference, enter the Serial Number and Order Number in the space provided on the front cover of this
manual.
Additional Information and Potential Changes
DR Power Equipment reserves the right to discontinue, change, and improve its products at any time without notice or obligation
to the purchaser. The descriptions and specifications contained in this manual were in effect at printing. Equipment described
within this manual may be optional. Some illustrations may not be applicable to your machine.
2 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Chapter 1: General Safety Rules
Read this Safety & Operating Instructions manual before you use the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER. Become familiar
with the operation and service recommendations to ensure the best performance from your machine. If you have any questions
or need assistance, please contact us at www.DRpower.com or call toll-free 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) and one of our
Technical Support Representatives will be happy to help you.
Labels
Your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER carries prominent labels as reminders for its proper and safe use. Shown below
are copies of the Safety and Information labels that appear on the equipment. Take a moment to study them and make a note of
their location on your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER as you set up and before you operate the unit. Replace damaged
or missing safety and information labels immediately.
#32440
#13649
#32438
#32442
Tractor Safety Information
YOUR DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER is driven by a PTO shaft that transfers power from your Tractor. The Tractor and
PTO shaft are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury or death if not used properly. Read and understand all of the
Warnings and operating instructions that came with your Tractor and the PTO shaft to protect yourself from severe injury or
death.
Safety for Children and Pets
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children and pets. Children are often attracted to the
Never
machine and the trimming activity.
precautions:
Keep children and pets out of the working area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.
Be alert and turn the machine off if children or pets enter the work area.
Never allow children to operate the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision.
assume that children will remain where you last saw them. Always follow these
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 3
Protecting yourself and those around you
This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating with high energy at high speeds. You must operate the machine
safely. Unsafe operation can create a number of hazards for you, as well as anyone else in the nearby area. Always take the
following precautions when using this machine:
Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people, their property, and
themselves.
Always wear protective goggles or safety glasses with side shields while trimming to protect your eyes from possible thrown
debris.
Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry, which can catch on the machine’s moving parts.
We recommend wearing gloves while using this machine. Be sure your gloves fit properly and do not have loose cuffs or
drawstrings.
Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER. If you have safety shoes, we
recommend wearing them. Do not use the machine while barefoot or wearing sandals with exposed toes or heels.
Wear long pants while operating the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER.
Use ear protectors or ear plugs rated for at least 20 dba to protect your hearing.
Keep bystanders at least 100 feet away from your work area at all times. The tips of the cutting cords on the DR 3-POINT
HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER can throw sticks, small stones, gravel, and bits of debris over long distances at great velocity. Do
not travel over loose materials such as gravel or mulch with the trimmer head spinning. Doing so could cause personal injury
or property damage from thrown objects. Disengage the PTO Shaft to stop the spinning cords and shut off the Tractor
engine when another person or pet approaches.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
Never operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Operating the Trimmer/Mower Safely
This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating with high energy at high speeds. You must operate the machine
safely. Unsafe operation can create a number of hazards for you, as well as anyone else in the nearby area. Always take the
following precautions when using this machine:
Do not have the Trimmer engaged or resting on the ground when backing up. The machine is designed to trim and roll on
the Wheel in the forward direction only. Trimming or rolling on the Wheel in the reverse direction could damage the machine
and is not covered by the Warranty.
Know how to stop the Trimmer quickly by disengaging the PTO Shaft and shutting down the tractor.
Never allow people who are unfamiliar with these instructions to use the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER. Allow
only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation to use your machine.
Do not exceed 2 mph when trimming to allow proper cutting and discharge of material.
Do not exceed 7 mph when transporting to prevent damage to the machine.
Operating your 3point trimmer with the head misaligned with the ground can result in poor cut quality, pivoting problems,
scalping during cutting, wear on your equipment, and damage to the cutting cord
Never place your hands, feet, or any part of your body on or under the mower deck in the path of the spinning cords, belt,
pulleys, or near the discharge opening while the tractor is running. Keep area of discharge clear of people, animals, buildings,
glass, or anything else that will obstruct clear discharge, cause injury, or damage.
Your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER is a powerful tool, not a plaything. Exercise extreme caution at all times. The
design of your machine is for trimming and mowing grass, weeds, and other growth as specified in this manual. Do not use
it for any other purpose.
Whenever you leave the operating position to make adjustments, change cords or if you have to remove grass or debris from
the underside of the deck, always disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to
come to a complete stop, disconnect the PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before performing any
maintenance procedure or inspection on the Trimmer.
4 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Operating the Mower Safely (continued)
Be mindful of roll over hazards, changes in terrain, slopes, or wet conditions. Use care when backing up.
Stop the cutting cords when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
Never, under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the DR 3-POINT HITCH
TRIMMER/MOWER. This includes all shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and
property damage and will void your warranty.
If the cutting cords strike a foreign object or if your machine should start making an unusual noise or vibration, disengage
PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect the
PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before inspection. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. Clean and
repair and/or replace damaged parts.
While using the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER, do not hurry or take things for granted. When in doubt about the
equipment or your surroundings, stop the machine and take the time to look things over. Make sure that you have 100%
control of the Trimmer at all times.
Watch for traffic when mowing near roadways.
Use the machine only in daylight.
Be cautious when using your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER around fencing, wires, ropes, and hoses. It is possible
that these and other debris can become wound around the Cord Head of the machine, potentially damaging the bearings or
injuring you.
Do not operate the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER on slopes greater than is recommended in your Tractor manual.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight and keep the equipment in good operating condition.
A Note to All Users
No list of warnings and cautions can be all-inclusive. If situations occur that are not covered by this manual, the operator must
apply common sense and operate this DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER in a safe manner. Contact us at
www.DRpower.com or call 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) for assistance.
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 5
Chapter 2: Setting Up The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
A
s
A
It may be helpful to familiarize yourself with the controls and features of your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER as shown
in Figure 1 before beginning these procedures.
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact us at
www.DRpower.com.
DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER Controls and Features
Upper Hitch
Pin
3-Point Hitch
Bracket
Lower Hitch
Pin
Gearbox
Wheel Height
Trimmer Guard
djustment Spacer
Pneumatic
Caster Wheel
Belt Guide
(4 Places)
Belt
Mow-Ball
Drive Pulley
Cutting Cord
®
Springback
ssembly
Locking Bolt with
Wing Nut
PTO Shaft
Collar and
Pin
Belt Tension Pulleys
Figure 1
6 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Specifications
A
A
Tractor Requirements
Drive
PTO Speed
Number of Trimmer Cords
Belt
Belt Adjustment
Max. Wheel Base (distance from outside to outside of
Category 1, 25 to 45 HP Max.
Tractor PTO
540 RPM
4
6577BR Gates, 134-3/8˝ L
Spring Loaded Idler Pulleys
63"
rear wheels)
Cutting Height
Cutting Width
Machine Weight
3 - 7.5 in (3 - 4.5 on the head + 3 in on the wheel in 1/2" increments)
22"
225 Lbs
Attaching the 3-Point Bracket to the Tractor
Before performing the following procedure, be sure your tractor engine is off,
brake is set, and the key removed for safety.
1. Position the 3-Point Bracket at the rear of the Tractor with the Back Plate
facing away from the back of the Tractor (Figure 2). The opposite side of
the 3-Point Bracket facing the Upper Draft Arm is open.
2. Remove the Linch Pin from the top Hitch Pin and remove the Pin from the
3-Point Bracket.
3. Position the Upper Draft Arm inside the top portion of the 3-Point Bracket
and align the Holes.
4. Insert the Top Hitch Pin into the aligned holes and secure with the Linch
Pin.
5. Remove the Hitch Pins from the two lower side mounting Pins of the 3-
Point Bracket. Slide the Lower Draft Arms onto the lower Bracket Pins and
secure with the Hitch Pins.
6. Adjust the Lower Draft Arms as needed to center the 3-Point Bracket and
then lock the Lower Draft Arms to keep them from swinging side to side.
See your Tractor Operator manual for specific instructions to set Draft Arm
position.
Attaching the Trimmer/Mower to the 3-Point Bracket
Lower
Draft
rms
Lower
Hitch Pins
Figure 2
Hitch Pin and Clip
Figure 3
Mounting
Hole
Upper
Hitch Pin
Upper
Draft
rm
Back Plate
3-Point
Bracket
Locking Ring
Pivot Pin
1. Remove the Hitch Pin with Clip from the Locking Ring and remove the Ring
(Figure 3).
Note: Leave the Pivot Washer on the Pivot Pin. The bevel should be facing the
Trimmer/Mower.
3-Point
Bracket
2. Slide the Pivot Pin into the Mounting Hole of the 3-Point Bracket as far as it
will go (Figure 4).
Figure 4
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 7
Pivot Washer
(bevel on this side)
d
Hitch Pin
with Clip
Pivot Pin
Figure 5
Hitch Pin
Spacers
3. Secure the Pivot pin to the 3-Point Bracket with the Locking Ring and Hitch
Pin with Clip (Figure 5).
Installing the Wheel Assembly
1. Remove the Hitch Pin and Spacers from the Wheel Shaft (Figure 6).
2. Insert the Wheel Shaft into the Wheel Support from underneath, install the
Spacers on top and secure with the Hitch Pin.
Note: The Wheel height can be adjusted as needed. This procedure will be
discussed later in Chapter 3 “Operating the DR 3-Point Hitch Trimmer/Mower”
Calculating length of PTO Shaft needed
The PTO Shaft provided with your Trimmer is 32" overall compressed length
and will work “as is” for most applications. Before you install the PTO Shaft it
is good practice to run through the following dimension checks to calculate
optimum PTO Shaft length to determine if modifications are needed.
Without the PTO Shaft installed, use the table below to record the dimensions
as outlined in the following steps.
Wheel
Figure 6
Gearbox Guar
Remove Hardware
Figure 7
Wheel Support
Loosen Hardware
Tractor
Spline Shaft
Trimmer
Gearbox Shaft
The minimum recommended overlap of the tubes at the center of the PTO
Shaft should be 6". Using a PTO Shaft with less than 6" overlap may fail and
cause machine damage or personal injury.
Tools Needed:
Two 11/16" Wrenches
TRACTOR SPLINE SHAFT TO GEARBOX SHAFT MEASUREMENTS
ON GROUND Inches
SHAFTS LEVEL Inches
FULLY RAISED Inches
Note: Install the Locking Bolt as described in the paragraph “INSTALLING THE
LOCKING BOLT FOR PARALLEL TRIMMING/MOWING” in the “Preparing the
Trimmer/Mower for Trimming” section in Chapter 3.
1. Remove the front Bolt, Washers and Locknut from the Gearbox Guard with
two 11/16" Wrenches (Figure 7).
2. Slightly loosen the rear Bolt, Washers and Locknut of the Gearbox Guard
with two 11/16" Wrenches.
3. Rotate the Gearbox Guard up away from the Gearbox Shaft.
4. Lower the Trimmer all the way to the ground in the operating position
Measure
Distance
Figure 8
8 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
(Figure 8). Measure from the end of the Tractor Spline Shaft to the end of the
Trimmer Gearbox Shaft and record this dimension in the “ON GROUND” row
of the table above.
5. Raise the Trimmer up until the Tractor PTO Spline and Trimmer Gearbox Shaft are parallel with each other. Measure from the
end of the Tractor Spline Shaft to the end of the Trimmer Gearbox Shaft and record this dimension in the “SHAFTS LEVEL”
row of the table above.
6. Raise the Trimmer up as far as it will go. Measure from the end of the Tractor Spline Shaft to the end of the Trimmer Gearbox
Shaft and record this dimension in the “FULLY RAISED” row of the table above.
Note: If your longest measurement exceeds 37" you will require a longer PTO Shaft. Do not proceed with installation until you have a
longer PTO Shaft. If you have any questions, please visit us at www.DRpower.com or call 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637).
7. Take the shortest recorded measurement you wrote in the table and add 2".
8. Take that number and subtract it from 32" (overall compressed length of the supplied PTO Shaft).
9. This final number is the length that you will need to cut off of the PTO Shaft for it to fit properly to your Tractor.
EXAMPLE:
Let’s assume the shortest center-to-center measurement in the table is 27".
27 + 2 = 29 (step 4 above)
32 – 29 = 3 (step 5 above)
You would be required to cut 3" off both halves of the PTO Shaft and 3" off the Guard.
Note: If you end up with 0" or a negative number, then no changes are needed until you reach a maximum long measurement of 37" as
indicated on previous page.
Modifying the PTO Shaft-if required
If you have determined in the previous steps that the PTO Shaft is too long for
your set up, shorten the Shaft as follows:
Note: Your actual PTO Shaft may look different than the one shown in these steps
but the procedures are the same.
1. Separate the PTO Shaft Halves by pulling them apart.
2. Separate the Guards from the PTO Shaft Halves by inserting a flat tip
screwdriver into the Bearing Tab Slots as you pull down on the Safety
Guard to release the Safety Guard from the Shaft (Figure 9).
3. Measure and cut the ends of both Guards the required amount (Figure 10).
Note: If you put the Guards in a vise to hold them, be careful not to clamp it too
tight because it could crack the plastic.
Safety
Guard
Bearing
Tab
Figure 9
Safety
Guard
Cut This
End
Figure 10
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 9
Figure 11
Shaft Tube
4. Measure and cut each Shaft Tubes to the required length using the hacksaw
(Figure 11).
5. File or sand any burrs from the Shaft ends (Figure 12).
6. Grease both Shaft Tubes and under the Bearing Rings of each Shaft (Figure
13).
7. Insert the Shaft Halves into the Guards making sure that the Bearing Ring
Slot lines up with the Tab on the inside of the Guards for proper installation
(Figure 14).
8. Slide the two PTO Shaft Halves together.
Note: When inserting one half of the PTO Shaft to the other you must line up the
splines correctly (two pointed splines and one flat spline).
Continue to the following section to attach the PTO Shaft to the Tractor and
Trimmer.
Figure 12
Figure 13
Shaft
Tube
Bearing
Ring Slot
Bearing
Ring
Shaft
Tube
End
Attaching the PTO Shaft to the Tractor and Trimmer
Note: The PTO Driveshaft provided with your new machine is sized to fit a standard
category 1 PTO (1-3/8" DIA. x 6" Spline).
The PTO Spline Shaft on the tractor that is to use this machine must rotate
clockwise when viewing the PTO from the rear of the tractor. If the PTO rotates
counterclockwise, you must have your tractor modified by installing a gearbox to
reverse the direction of rotation.
The length of the PTO Driveshaft that is included with your new machine will
work in most instances but may need to be modified. See “Calculating Length of
PTO Shaft needed” for checking the PTO Shaft length desired and then “Modifying
the PTO Shaft if required” instructions if the PTO Shaft is too long.
You must install the Key supplied in the Product Package where the PTO shaft
attaches to the Trimmer Gearbox. Failure to install the Key will result in damage
to the machine and is not covered under warranty.
Tools Needed:
4mm Allen Wrench
1. Open the Gearbox Guard as described on page 8.
2. Insert the Key into the Trimmer Gearbox Shaft (Figure 15).
Guard
Tab
Gearbox
Shaft
Key
Figure 14
10 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Figure 15
3. Align the Key Slot of the PTO Shaft with the Key in the Shaft and slide it
d
A
/
onto the Shaft (Figure 16).
Note: Do not allow the PTO Shaft to contact the Gearbox. The Gearbox Shaft end
should be flush with the inside of the U-Joint.
4. Secure the PTO Shaft by tightening the Set Screw with a 4mm Allen Wrench.
Note: If you plan to leave the Trimmer attached to the Tractor for extended periods,
apply thread lock to the Set Screw to help secure it in place.
5. Push in the Spring Pin at the end of the PTO Shaft and slide it onto the
Tractor Spline (Figure 17). When the PTO Shaft is started on the Tractor
Spline Shaft, release the Pin and continue to push the PTO Shaft until the
Spring Pin locks into the Groove of the Tractor Spline.
6. Attach the Safety Chain of the PTO Shaft around a solid area of the 3-Point
Bracket with the Chain ends attached to both ends of the PTO Shaft Guard
(Figure 18). Make sure the Chain has enough slack in the full range of the
Tractor 3-Point Arm travel.
7. Lower the Gearbox Guard and install the front Bolt, Washers and Locknut
with two 11/16" Wrenches (Figure 19).
8. Tighten the rear Gearbox Guard hardware with two 11/16" Wrenches.
Gearbox
Figure 16
Groove
Set
Screw
PTO
Shaft
Tractor Spline
Installing Trimmer Cords
Note: Cutting height adjustments can be made as you learn the trimming
characteristics of the machine in the “Operating the DR 3-Point Hitch
Trimmer/Mower” in the next Chapter.
Always make sure to install all four Trimmer Cords and ensure they are the
same length. Not having all four Cords installed and/or at the same length will
cause excessive vibration and could damage the machine.
1. Insert the end of a Trimmer Cord into the inlet hole (larger slotted cutout)
push it in until the end protrudes out the other side approximately 1/2"
(Figure 20).
2. Turn the Cord Head 90 degrees and repeat the installation until all Cords
are installed.
Note: The Cord can only move through the Cord Head in one direction. To remove
it you must pull it from the other side of the Holder (where the 1/2" end is).
Running the trimmer without all four cords installed or cords of unequal length
can cause excessive vibration and may damage the machine.
Spring
Pin
PTO
Shaft
Figure 17
3-Point Bracket
Safety Chain
PTO Guard
Hooks
Figure 18
Gearbox Guar
Outlet
Cord Head
pprox.
1
2"
Figure 20
Inlet
Trimmer
Cord
Front Hardware
Figure 19
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 11
Rear Hardware
w
l®
A
A
A
A
Screw Driver
Cord Head Height Adjustment
Note: The Cord Head can be located above or below the Molded Spacer giving you a
1-1/2" range in trimming height. The following steps show moving the Cord Head
from below the Molded Spacer to on top of the Molded Spacer.
Figure 21
Spacer
Molded Spacer
(can be above
or below Cord
Head)
Cord Head
Mow-Ball
Figure 22
®
Mow-Ball
nti-Wrap Can
Molded Spacer
Cord Head
®
nti-Wrap Can
dapter
dapter Hole
(facing up)
Mo
-Bal
Bolt
Tools and Supplies Needed:
Phillips head Screwdriver with at least a 6" shank
Gloves
1. Align the hole in the Anti Wrap Canister with the hole in the internal housing
at the location shown (Figure 21).
2. Insert a Philips Head Screwdriver into the hole in the Anti Wrap Canister and
the hole in the internal Housing.
3. Rotate the Mow-Ball
the shaft, locking it into place.
4. Looking down at the top of the Frame, turn the Mow-Ball
unscrews completely from the Bearing Housing.
Note: If the Mow-Ball
locked the Screwdriver into the shaft. If the Mow-Ball will not turn by hand a 9/16"
Socket can be used on the Bolt (inside the bottom of the Mow-Ball) to loosen it.
You may need to clean grass or debris out of the recess first.
5. Slide the Cord Head, Adapter and Molded Spacer off the Shaft (Figure 22).
6. The Anti-Wrap Can and Spacer should remain on the Shaft with the
Screwdriver.
7. Make sure the Adapter is inserted into the top of the Cord Head as you
install the Cord Head onto the Shaft.
8. Install the Molded Spacer onto the Shaft.
9. Place the head of the Mow-Ball
the bottom of the Mow-Ball
10. Looking down at the top of the Frame, hold the Bolt Head in place with your
finger and turn the Mow-Ball
11. Tighten the assembly securely by turning the Mow-Ball
when looking down on the top of the Frame (Figure 23).
12. Remove the Screwdriver.
®
Assembly until the Screw Driver slides into a hole in
®
clockwise until it
®
continues to turn, but does not come off, check that you
®
®
Bolt so it is sitting inside the hex cavity at
.
®
counterclockwise to start the Bolt into the Shaft.
®
counterclockwise
Always make sure you remove the screwdriver from the head assembly when
finished. Failure to remove the screwdriver could cause injury when the head
assembly is engaged.
1. Apply a quality general-purpose lithium grease with a hand-pumped grease
gun to each of the Support Grease Fitting (Figure 24).
The Assembly and installation of your DR Trimmer/Mower is now complete.
Proceed to the next Chapter “Operating the DR 3-POINT HITCH
TRIMMER/MOWER” for operating instructions.
Grease Fitting
Support
Figure 24
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 13
Chapter 3: Operating The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
This machine is designed to operate at 540 rpm PTO Shaft speed only! Never operate at a faster speed; doing so can cause
serious injury to the operator or bystanders and could cause damage to the machine that is not covered under warranty.
Read and understand your Tractor users manual and all Tractor safety Warnings for operating your Tractor safely before
operating this DR 3-Point Hitch Trimmer/Mower.
Operation Notes
See the Owner’s Manual that came with your Tractor for all safety warnings and detailed information for operating your Tractor
properly.
Always operate the Tractor PTO at 540 RPM when trimming.
Always disengage the PTO, lock the Parking Brake and shut off the Tractor when leaving the Tractor Seat.
Never transport the Trimmer while the PTO is turning.
Do not have the Trimmer engaged or resting on the ground when backing up. The machine is designed to trim and roll on the
Wheel in the forward direction only. Trimming or rolling on the Wheel in the reverse direction could damage the machine and
is not covered by the Warranty.
Remove any debris buildup from the machine before every use of the Trimmer.
Always install the Locking Bolt and Wing Nut into the transport holes of the 3-Point Bracket and Trimmer when transporting the
Trimmer. See “Preparing the Trimmer/Mower for Transport” in this Chapter.
Trimmer Bracket
Wing Nut
Figure 25
Bolt
Head
3-Point
Bracket
Figure 26
Trimming
Position
Slot
Pivot
Position
3-Point
Bracket
Trimmer
Bracket
Wing Nut
Bolt
Head
Preparing the Trimmer/Mower for Trimming
The characteristics of cutting height and quality is controlled by the position of
the Trimmer Cords, location of Locking Bolt, Wheel Spacer arrangement and
height of Tractor PTO lift Arms. It takes time and practice to learn what the
best combinations of settings for different conditions are.
INSTALLING THE LOCKING BOLT FOR PARALLEL TRIMMING/MOWING
(terrain that is level with Tractor Wheels)
1. Install the Bolt into the right side “holes” location through the 3-Point
Bracket and Trimmer Bracket (Figure 25).
2. Secure the Bolt with the Wing Nut.
INSTALLING THE PIVOT BOLT FOR PIVOT TRIMMING/MOWING (terrain
that is higher or lower than Tractor Wheels such as ditches)
1. Install the Bolt into the left side “slots” location through the 3-Point Bracket
and Trimmer Bracket (Figure 26).
2. Secure the Bolt with the Wing Nut.
Checking 3-Point Bracket to PTO Shaft clearance
Observe the Trimmer as it is lifted to ensure that the 3-Point Bracket does not
contact the PTO Shaft. If they do touch, the Tractor may have a setting to limit
the distance it is lifted off the ground to prevent contact. See your Tractor user
manual for details of Tractor settings.
14 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
SETTING WHEEL HEIGHT
A
1. Remove the Hitch Clip and remove the Wheel Assembly with Spacers
(Figure 27).
2. Adjust the Spacers as desired with some under and some above the Support
on the Shaft.
3. Reinstall Wheel Assembly, Spacers and Hitch Clip.
Note: More Spacers under the Support will lower the Wheel and set the Trimmer
Head Higher. More Spacers on top of the Support will raise the Wheel and
set the Trimmer Head Lower.
Engaging the Trimmer Head
1. Ensure that the Trimmer is lowered to the ground and all Guards are in
place and properly secured before using.
2. Set Tractor throttle at IDLE and engage the PTO.
3. Increase Tractor throttle to the RPM’s required to obtain 540 PTO speed.
Note: See your Tractor manual for detailed information on Tractor operation.
Stopping the Cords from Spinning
1. Reduce Tractor throttle to IDLE.
2. Disengaging PTO to stop the Trimmer.
Hitch Clip
Spacers
Wheel
ssembly
Figure 27
Support
Cord Tips
We ship two (2) thicknesses of Cutting Cord with your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER.
The Cords are Blue (175-mil) and Green (155-mil). Because conditions and vegetation vary so much, you should experiment with
Cord weights (diameters) to discover what works best for your particular mowing and trimming situations. Here are a few things
to keep in mind:
If you buy Cutting Cord in rolls, cut it in 13" lengths. Cut them at an angle so they will be easier to install.
Soak your Cutting Cord in a bucket of room temperature water for a few days before use to make it more pliable. Storing the
Cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth will help keep it pliable
Cord life depends on trimming conditions. Replace Cords when they become broken or frayed.
The smallest diameter Cord capable of cutting the material at hand usually provides the best grass trimming performance.
When you need more strength for thicker growth such as berry canes, brambles, thistles, or ragweed, you may want to use the
175-mil Cord.
Ease the ends of the Cord into heavy growth and move slowly through thick growth. If there are woody weeds in the material
you are cutting, the cutting Cords may wrap around the stalks they cannot cut, and pull away from the Trimmer Head.
If the Cord breaks off flush at the Cord Head, use needle nose pliers to pull out the old Cord.
UV light can degrade cord, store out of direct sunlight.
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 15
Preparing the Trimmer/Mower for Transport
Always disengage the PTO Shaft before lifting the Trimmer off the ground or
transporting the Trimmer to prevent injury or damage to the machine.
1. On the right hand side of the machine (trimmer head side), align the holes
of the Trimmer with the holes in the 3-Point Hitch Bracket. Insert the Locking
Bolt through the holes (Figure 28).
2. Secure the Bolt with the Wing Nut.
Note: Observe the Trimmer as it is lifted to ensure that the 3-Point Bracket does not
contact the PTO Shaft. If they do touch, the Tractor may have a setting to limit the
distance it is lifted off the ground to prevent contact. See your Tractor user manual
for details of Tractor settings.
3. Lift the Trimmer off the ground with the Tractor 3-Point Hitch before
transporting to prevent hitting any obstacles.
Trimmer Bracket
Wing Nut
Figure 28
Bolt
Head
3-Point
Bracket
Transport
Position
Obstacles
Dealing with obstacles in the terrain is easy with your new DR 3-POINT HITCH
TRIMMER/MOWER. The following section explains how to approach most
common obstacles.
Always check your work area before trimming and remove any debris that
Optimum Impact
Zone Label
might tangle or damage the machine.
Approach obstacles (fence posts etc) so the impact zone will be within the
Figure 29
area of the Optimum Impact Zone Label (Figure 29). This will ensure the best
spring action and trimming coverage around the obstacle.
If you do run into debris and the Trimmer becomes tangled, disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key,
wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, then wait five minutes for parts to cool before attempting to untangle the
machine.
Never Trim or let the Wheel rest on the ground with the Tractor in reverse.
Heavy Growth
Take your time in heavy growth.
If the machine cannot do it all in one pass, overlap half of the cutting swath.
Ease the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER into denser growth. If the material is too tough or woody to cut, the Cutting
Cords will wrap around it, wear down, or even break off.
Tip: Use the “two pass”, one half overlap method, whenever possible.
Wet Conditions
Because there is no housing to restrict the flow of cut material, you can also use your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER to
mow wet or heavy growth. You can use the Trimmer in damp conditions, after a rain, or in the early morning dew without
clogging or stalling. You can also mow wet areas such as ditches and around ponds.
Slopes
Refer to your Tractor Users Manual for slope safety information and operation guidelines.
Windrows
The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER Cutting Cords cut even tall grass in just one pass, so you can collect clippings and
leaves for mulch without raking. The machine ejects cut material to its right side, so you can use it like a lawn broom to make
windrows for easy clean-up.
Firebreaks
Use your Trimmer as a labor saving tool to cut material when creating firebreaks.
16 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Chapter 4: Maintaining The DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
S
S
Regular maintenance is the way to ensure the best performance and long life of your machine. Please refer to this manual for
maintenance procedures.
Disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect
the PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection on the
Trimmer.
Regular Maintenance Checklist
Note: Consider that the service intervals shown are the maximum under normal operating conditions. Increase frequencies under
extremely dirty or dusty conditions. See the Owners Manual that came with the Tractor and with the PTO Shaft for Specific
Tractor and PTO Shaft maintenance.
P
ROCEDURE BEFORE
EACH USE
Check General Equipment Condition, e.g. Nuts, Bolts,
Welds, etc.
Replace broken or frayed Cutting Cords.
Check the Mow-Ball® and Cord Head for excessive
wear.
Lubricate PTO Shaft and Wheel Support Grease
Fittings
Check Belt tension and condition
Lubricate PTO Shaft Spline ends and center overlap
Replace the Belt
Grease pivot bearings and gearbox
EVERY 8-10
HOURS
EVERY 1820
HOUR
EVERY 50
HOURS
EVERY 100
HOUR
Maintenance position
Many maintenance procedures can be performed easier by positioning the Trimmer in an upright “maintenance” position. This
position is for maintenance purposes only. Do not transport or operate the Trimmer in the upright position.
Two people are required when setting the Trimmer Body to the
maintenance position. One person must steady the Trimmer as the other
installs the Bolt. Do not allow the Trimmer Body to go beyond vertical
and fall in the opposite direction without the Bolt in place as this could
cause injury to you or damage the Trimmer.
Never transport the Trimmer in the “Maintenance” position. This could
damage the machine and is not covered by the Warranty.
1. Remove the Bolt and Wing Nut that is holding the Trimmer in the trimming
operating positions.
2. Lift the Trimmer Body up to a vertical position. With the head of the Bolt
facing the Tractor, install the Bolt all the way into the transport hole of the 3Point Bracket (Figure 30).
3. Let the Trimmer Mounting Bracket rest against the Bolt to hold it in the
vertical (maintenance) position.
Figure 30
3-Point
Bracket
Bolt
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 17
A
Cord Head
A
r
w
l®
A
A
A
Figure 31
Spacer
Molded Spacer
(can be above
or below Cord
Head)
Spacer
Loosen
nti Wrap
Canister
Screw Driver
Mow-Ball
nti-Wrap Can
®
Replacing the Mow-Ball® or Cord Head
Tools and Supplies Needed:
Phillips head Screwdriver with at least a 6" shank
Gloves
4. Align the hole in the Anti Wrap Canister with the hole in the internal housing
at the location shown (Figure 31).
5. Insert a Philips Head Screwdriver into the hole in the Anti Wrap Canister
and the hole in the internal Housing.
6. Rotate the Mow-Ball
the shaft, locking it into place.
7. Looking down at the top of the Frame, turn the Mow-Ball
unscrews completely from the Bearing Housing.
Note: If the Mow-Ball
that you locked the Screwdriver into the shaft.
If the Mow-Ball will not turn by hand a 9/16" Socket can be used on the Bolt
(inside the bottom of the Mow-Ball) to loosen it. You may need to clean grass or
debris out of the recess first.
®
Assembly until the Screw Driver slides into a hole in
®
clockwise until it
®
continues to turn, but does not come off, check to be sure
Cord Head
Mow-Ball
Figure 32
dapte
Top Plate
Spring
(4 Places)
Locking Cam
(4 Places)
Figure 33
dapter
9. The Anti-Wrap Can and Spacer should remain on the Shaft with the
Screwdriver.
8. Slide the Cord Head, Adapter and Molded Spacer off the Shaft (Figure 32).
dapter Hole
(facing up)
10. Replace parts as needed and install them onto the shaft in the order shown.
11. Place the head of the Mow-Ball
bottom of the Mow-Ball
®
.
®
Bolt so it is sitting in the hex cavity at the
12. Looking down at the top of the Frame, hold the Bolt Head in place with your
®
Mo
-Bal
Bolt
13. Tighten the assembly securely by turning the Mow-Ball
finger and turn the Mow-Ball
®
counterclockwise to start the Bolt into the Shaft.
®
counterclockwise
when looking down on the top of the Frame.
14. Remove the Screwdriver.
Screw
(4 Places)
Always make sure you remove the screwdriver from the head assembly when
finished. Failure to remove the screwdriver could cause injury when the head
assembly is engaged.
Cleaning the Cord Head
Middle Plate
Bottom Plate
Tools Needed:
3mm Allen Wrench
Clean Rags
Nylon Brush
15. Remove the Cord Head as described in the “Replacing the Mow-Ball
Cord Head” section.
16. Remove the four Screws using a 3mm Allen Wrench (Figure 33).
®
or
18 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
17. Remove the Springs and Locking Cams from the Middle and Bottom Plates
s
and clean any grass or debris from the Springs and Cams.
18. Clean all Plates using a Nylon Brush and clean Rag to remove all grass and
dirt.
19. Inspect the Springs and Cams for damage. If any parts are damaged please
call DR Power to order a replacement assembly.
20. Reinstall the Springs and Locking Cams into the middle and bottom Plates
(Figure 34).
Note: The Bottom Plate has threaded holes and the middle Plate has clearance
holes. The Plates must be in the correct order for proper assembly.
21. Assemble the Plates ensuring that they are aligned properly and the Springs
and Cams are seated fully into the Plate grooves. The four Screw holes
must be aligned and the two halves of the side cutouts should align from
Plate to Plate (Figure 35).
22. Secure the Cord Head assembly with the four Screws using a 3mm Allen
Wrench.
23. Reinstall the Cord Head as described in the “Replacing the Mow-Ball
®
or
Cord Head” section.
Spring
Figure 34
Plate
Locking
Cam
Outlet Cutout
Locking
Cam
Spring
Always make sure you remove the screwdriver from the head assembly when
finished. Failure to remove the screwdriver could cause injury when the head
assembly is engaged.
Replacing the Drive Belt
Use only DR belts on your machine. Do not use hardware store variety belts.
Tools needed:
3/8" Wrench
Two 9/16" Wrenches
9/16" Deep Socket and Ratchet
1. Remove the eight Flange Bolts from the Belt Guard using a 3/8" Wrench
(Figure 36).
2. Lift the Belt Guard from the machine.
3. Remove the two Belt Guide Pins at the head of the Trimmer using two 9/16˝
Wrenches (Figure 37).
Note: Observe the orientation of the Belt Guides in the next step. They must be
positioned in this way when reinstalled.
4. Loosen the two Belt Guides of the Gearbox Pulley using two 9/16˝ Wrenches
and rotate them out of the way.
Figure 35
Flange Bolts
Figure 36
Belt
Guide
Pin
Inlet Cutout
Belt Guard
Flange
Bolts
Belt
Guides
Figure 37
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 19
Tension Spring
Figure 38
Figure 39
Idler Arm
Belt
Guides
Flat Groove
Idler
Belt
Flat Groove
Idler Pulley
V-Groove
Idler Pulley
5. Position the 9/16˝ Deep Socket and Ratchet onto the Bolt of the Flat Groove
Idler Pulley. The Ratchet Handle and Idler Arm must be aligned for the pivoting
of the Arm to work properly (Figure 38).
6. Pull on the Ratchet to rotate the Idler Arm towards the Gearbox Pulley and
slide the Belt off the V-Groove Idler Pulley.
7. Allow the Ratchet to return back towards the Spring until the Idler Arm is in
line with the Tension Spring.
8. Remove the Belt from the Trimmer Head Pulley and the main Drive Pulley.
9. Install the new DR Drive Belt around the main Drive Pulley and the Trimmer
Head Pulley. Ensure that the “V” of the Belt is in the “V” of the Pulleys and
there are no twists in the Belt.
Note: Make sure the Belt is on the outside of the Frame Mounted Belt Guides and
on the inner side of the Flat Groove Idler Pulley (Figure 39).
10. Rotate the Idler Arm towards the Gearbox Pulley with the Ratchet and 9/16˝
Deep Socket (Ratchet Handle in line with the Idler Arm) and position the Belt
around the Flat Groove Pulley and then around the V-Groove Pulley (Figure 38).
11. Adjust and tighten the two Belt Guides at the Gearbox Pulley.
12. Install the Belt Guide Pins at the Head of the machine using two 9/16˝
Wrenches.
13. Position the Belt Guard and secure with the eight Flange Bolts using a 3/8"
Wrench.
20 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Figure 38
d
A
Grease Fitting
Support
U-Joint
Grease Fitting
Grease Fittings
Your PTO Shaft was greased at the Factory so it will not need grease until the
scheduled maintenance as listed at the beginning of this Chapter. The Wheel
Support should have been greased when the machine was assembled and also
has a recommended grease maintenance listed.
Note: The U-Joint Grease Fitting is sometimes located on the inside of the Joint.
The plastic Collar will need to be unclipped and pushed down to access the Fitting
for this type.
1. Wipe all dirt, etc., from the PTO Shaft grease fittings with a clean cloth.
2. Apply no more than three pumps of quality general-purpose lithium grease
with a hand-pumped grease gun to each of the two U-Joint Grease Fittings
(Figure 38).
Figure 39
Gearbox Guar
Remove Hardware
Figure 40
ccess Bolt
Loosen Hardware
3. Check the PTO Shaft Set Screw for tightness. If it is not tight then remove it,
apply Thread Lock
to the threads, then reinstall and tighten the Set Screw.
4. Wipe all dirt, etc., from the Wheel Support fitting with a clean cloth (Figure
39).
5. Apply quality general-purpose lithium grease with a hand-pumped grease
gun to the Wheel Support Grease Fitting as needed.
Greasing the Gearbox
The Gearbox is greased at the factory but may require grease to be added after
prolonged use..
Note: The Gearbox can hold 550ml. (18.6oz) of Mobil, Multipurpose XHP Lithium
Grease. We recommend the Gearbox be completely filled with Grease.
1. Remove the front Bolt, Washers and Locknut from the Gearbox Guard with
two 11/16" Wrenches (Figure 40).
2. Slightly loosen the rear Bolt, Washers and Locknut of the Gearbox Guard
with two 11/16" Wrenches.
3. Rotate the Gearbox Guard up away from the Gearbox.
Gearbox
4. Remove the Access Bolt using a 17mm Wrench (Figure 41).
5. If the Gearbox is not completely full, add Grease as needed to fill.
Figure 41
CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 21
Replacing the Caster Wheel
A
Tools Needed:
Pliers
Hitch Clip
1. Remove the Hitch Clip with Pliers and remove the Wheel Assembly with
Spacers (Figure 42).
2. Install the new Wheel Assembly and Spacers.
3. Secure with the Hitch Clip.
Check the Tire Pressure
Tools Needed:
Tire Pressure Gauge
Air Compressor
4. Remove the Valve Stem Protective Cap (Figure 43) and check the tire
pressure with a Tire Pressure Gauge.
5. Check what the manufacturers recommended pressure is that is stamped
on the side of the Tire.
6. If the pressure reading is too low, add air through the Valve Stem with an air
hose.
7. Replace the Valve Stem Protective Cap when finished.
Do not over inflate the tires. Inflate to the manufacturers recommended
pressure found on the tires.
Spacers
Wheel
ssembly
Figure 42
Valve Stem
Protective Cap
Figure 43
Support
22 DR
®
3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Most problems are easy to fix. Consult the Troubleshooting Table below for common problems and their solutions. If you
continue to experience problems, contact us at www.DRpower.com or call toll-free 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) for support.
Disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect
the PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection on the
Trimmer.
Troubleshooting Table
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE
Poor cut quality
Scalping
Cord needs to be replaced.
Tractor speed too fast.
Arm or wheel adjustment is off. Check for frame level or height of hydraulic arms on tractor
Daily Checklist for the DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER
To help maintain your DR 3-POINT HITCH TRIMMER/MOWER for optimum performance, we recommend you follow this checklist each
time you use your machine.
Disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect
the PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection on the
Trimmer.
[ ] CUTTING CORDS: Replace broken or frayed Cords.
[ ] MOW-BALL® and Cord Head: Check the Mow-Ball® and Cord Head for wear and replace as needed.
[ ] GENERAL CONDITION: Check the general condition of the machine, e.g.; nuts, bolts, welds etc.
Disengage PTO, shut down the Tractor Engine, remove the Key, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect
the PTO shaft from the Tractor, then wait five minutes before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection on the
Trimmer.
End of Season and Storage
Lubricate PTO Shaft Grease Fittings.
Check the Drive Belt for wear. Replace as needed.
Release Drive Belt from Tensioner to relieve Belt stress.
Check the general condition of the machine, e.g.; nuts, bolts, welds, etc. Replace parts or tighten Hardware as needed.
Store in a dry covered area to protect from moisture.
Remove any wrapped weeds from the Mow-Ball® and Wheel Assembly. Clean grass and debris from the top and