It is the policy of Farm Star
to improve its products
where it is possible and practical
to do so. Farm Star
reserves the right to make
changes or improvements in
design and construction at any
time, without incurring the obligation to make these changes on
previously manufactured units.
CAUTION
THE FOLLOWING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY UNDERSTOOD
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO BEGIN ASSEMBLING THIS MACHINE
1. Select an area for assembly that is clean and free of any
debris which might cause persons working on the
assembly to trip.
2. Do not lift heavy parts or assemblies. Use crane, jack,
tackle, fork trucks or other mechanical devices.
3. Preview the assembly instructions in your operator’s
manual before proceeding further.
4. If the assembly instructions call for parts or assemblies to
be blocked up, use only blocking material that is in good
condition and is capable of handling the weight of the
assembly to be blocked. Also insure that the blocking
material is on a clean, dry surface.
5. Never put hands, or any part of body, under blocked up
assemblies if at all possible.
6. After completing assembly, thoroughly inspect the
machine to be sure that all nuts, bolts, hydraulic fittings
or any other fastened assemblies have been thoroughly
tightened.
7. Before operating the machine, thoroughly read the
operation section of your operator’s manual.
8. Before operating, read the maintenance section of your
operator’s manual to be sure that any parts requiring
lubrication, such as gearboxes, are full, to avoid any
possible damage.
9. Before operating equipment – If you have any
questions regarding the proper assembly or
operation, contact your dealer or representative.
Page 2
T o the Owner/Operator/Dealer
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!
THIS SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL IDENTIFIES IMPORTANT
SAFETY WARNING MESSAGES. CAREFULL YREAD EACH
WARNING MESSAGE THAT FOLLOWS. FAILURE TO
UNDERSTAND AND OBEY A SAFETY WARNING, OR
THIS SYMBOL MEANS
– A TTENTION!
– BECOME ALERT!
– YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
RECOGNIZE A SAFETY HAZARD, COULD RESULT IN AN
INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS AROUND YOU.
THE OPERATOR IS ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE
SAFETY OF HIMSELF, AS WELL AS OTHERS, IN THE
OPERATING AREA OF THE TRACTOR AND ATTACHED
EQUIPMENT.
UNDERSTAND SIGNAL WORDS
Note the use of the signal words DANGER, WARNING
and CAUTION with the safety messages. The
appropriate signal word for each has been selected
using the following guidelines:
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme
situations typically for machine components which, for
functional purposes, cannot be guarded.
If you have questions not answered in this manual or require additional copies or the manual is damaged, please
contact your dealer or the manufacturer directly.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury, and includes hazards that are
exposed when guards are removed. It may also
be used to alert against unsafe practices.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION!
Working with unfamiliar equipment can lead to careless injuries. Read this manual, and the manual for your tractor,
before assembly or operating, to acquaint yourself with the machines. It is the implement owner’s responsibility, if this
machine is used by any person other than yourself, is loaned or rented, to make certain that the operator, prior to
operating:
1. Reads and understands the operator’s manuals.
2. Is instructed in safe and proper use.
The use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards which cannot be protected against by mechanical
means or product design. All operators of this equipment must read and understand this entire manual, paying
particular attention to safety and operating instructions, prior to using. If there is something in this manual you
do not understand, ask your supervisor, or your dealer, to explain it to you.
16
Page 3
All equipment is potentially hazardous. There is no substitute for a cautious, safe-minded operator who
recognizes potential hazards and follows reasonable safety practices.
When the use of hand tools is required to perform any part of assembly, installation, adjustment, maintaining,
repairing, removal, or moving the implement, be sure the tools used are designed and recommended by the
tool manufacturer for that specific task.
Personal protection equipment including safety glasses, safety shoes, and gloves are recommended during
assembly, installation, operation, adjustment, maintaining, repairing, removal, or moving the rear blade.
Always use two people to handle heavy, unwieldy components during assembly, installation, removal, or
moving the rear blade.
Never place any part of your body where it would be in danger if movement should occur during assembly,
installation, operation, maintaining, repairing, removal, or moving the implement.
Never place yourself between the tractor and implement while implement is in operation.
Do not work under a raised implement unless it is securely blocked or held in position. Do not depend on the
tractor hydraulic system to hold the implement in place.
A heavy load can cause instability of the tractor. Use extreme care during travel. Slow down on turns and
watch out for bumps. The tractor may need front counter-weights to counter-balance the weight of the
implement.
Never use alcoholic beverages or drugs which can hinder alertness or coordination while operating this
equipment. Consult your doctor about operating this machine while taking prescription medications.
Do not allow others to ride on the tractor with an operator. Riders are subject to injury such as being struck by
foreign objects or being thrown off. Riders obstruct the operator’s view resulting in unsafe operation. Never
allow anyone to ride on the implement!
Before you operate the rear blade, check over all pins, bolts and connections to be sure all are securely in
place. Replace any damaged or worn parts immediately.
Do not allow anyone who is not familiar with the safety rules and operation instructions to use this rear blade.
Never allow children to operate or be around equipment.
Use stabilizer bars, adjustable sway chains, or sway blocks on your tractor lift arms to keep the rear blade from
swinging side to side. Adjust as tightly as practical for best performance.
Keep alert and watch the front as well as the rear when working with the implement.
When maneuvering close to buildings or passing through narrow areas, be sure to allow sufficient clearance
for the implement.
Do not operate close to ditches or creeks. Slow down when operating over rough ground.
Always be sure the implement is in the fully raised position when in transport.
When adjusting the angle of the moldboard assembly, be sure that your feet are never under the rear blade.
Use extreme caution when backfilling deep holes or trenches.
Be careful to avoid catching the rear blade on stumps or other immovable objects.
Use care when working on slopes.
Avoid excessive speed during operation.
Make adjustments only when the implement is attached to the tractor.
When using the rear blade in a reverse position, use extra care. Do not ram rear blade into piles of dirt.
Tractor lift arms and the rear blade are not built to take high impact loads in this position. Ramming backwards
can also dislodge operator from seat and/or tractor controls, resulting in possible serious injury or death.
Always ease the tractor into the load. It may be necessary to reposition and take less “bite” on the material to
move it safely.
Watch for and avoid hidden obstructions, i.e., buried pipes, rocks, concrete piers, uneven concrete slabs,
stumps, etc., when operating.
SAFETY SIGNS
This SAFETY SIGN is
located on the frame of
your rear blade.
Obey ALL Safety
Warnings.
NOTE:
If Safety Sign is missing
or damaged, replace
immediately.
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Page 5
TRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
AND PREPA R ATION
ASSEMBLY AND MOUNTING
The Model DC Rear Blades will fit most Category I
tractors equipped with a standard 3-point hitch. The rear
blade will fit Category 0 3-point hitch tractors when
equipped with Category 0/I pull pins.
The pins need to be installed to the inside of the 3-point
frame for use with Category 0 tractors.
The Model DC Rear Blades are economy blades for use
on Category I tractors up to 25 horsepower in size. For
use on larger tractors, extra care is required and it is
strongly suggested that purchasing a heavier rear blade
be considered.
Check the tractor’s 3-point hydraulic lift system. It
should operate up and down smoothly and hold its
position when set. Refer to your tractor owner’s manual
or dealer for any adjustments necessary to put the 3point hydraulic lift system in good working order. (I&T
shop manuals will list most specifications and adjustment
instructions – available from most farm equipment
dealers.)
Tractor should be equipped with stabilizer bars,
adjustable sway chains, or sway blocks to keep the
implement from swinging side to side.
Smaller size tractors may need front counter weights to
counter-balance the weight of the implement.
It is recommended that the tractor be equipped with a
Rollover Protection System (ROPS) and a seat belt that
is used.
The main frame of the blade is now installed on the tractor. Proceed with assembling the moldboard and cutting
edge assembly to the main frame as follows:
1. Remove the 1” x 4” hex head pivot bolt and the shift
pin.
2. Place the moldboard assembly in the position shown
in the parts diagram.
3. Place the 1” x 4” hex head pivot bolt up through the
moldboard plate and through the main frame. Then
secure it with the washer, lockwasher, and nut
provided. NOTE: Do not tighten the 1” bolt at this
point, so that the angle position desired may be
obtained.
4. Once the moldboard assembly is mounted to the 3 pt.
hitch frame, turn the moldboard assembly to your
desired operating angle and insert the angle adjustment shift pin. NOTE: When pulling the blade, the
shift pin should be in the hole nearest to the tractor.
When pushing the blade, it should be in the hole farthest from the tractor.
5. Tighten the pivot bolt nut.
NOTE: If the moldboard to hitch frame connection
becomes loose after blade use, this looseness can be
removed by tightening the one inch nut.
NOTE: Always use the tractor anti-sway bars, blocks, or
chains to prevent blade side-sway. This is a must when
using the blade in a reverse position.
Your Rear Mounted Blade is now assembled and
mounted on your tractor. It is ready to go to work for you.
Attach rear blade hitch frame to tractor 3-point hitch
using a 3/4inch (Cat. I) top link pin and linch pins
furnished by customer.
INSTRUCTIONS
Be sure your tractor is in good condition and
properly equipped with counter weights. Read all the
safety precautions and make sure all tractor
operators are familiar with the safety rules of tractor
operation.
CAUTION!
GENERAL SAFETY
The designed and tested safety of this machine
depends on it being operated within the limitations as
explained in this manual. Be familiar with and follow all
safety rules in the manual, on the blade and on the
tractor.
The safe operation of this machine is the responsibility
of the owner / operator. The operator should be familiar
with the blade and tractor and all safety practices before
starting operation. Read the safety rules.
Page 6
OPERATION
Check for ditches, stumps, holes, or other obstacles
that could upset tractor or damage blade. Always turn off
tractor engine, set parking brake, lower blade to ground
before dismounting tractor.
5. BULLDOZING: When bulldozing, the blade is in
reverse position. Depending on the job, the casting,
side ditching, or leveling position may be used. Snow
removal can also be done with the blade in this
position (blade in reverse, cutting edge away from
tractor).
Attaching the blade to the tractor increases the overall
length of the working unit. Allow additional clearance for
the blade to swing when turning.
Your rear blade can be used for all types of blade
work, including casting, side ditching, leveling, terracing,
grading, bulldozing, and snow removal.
1. CASTING: The blade should be angled horizontally –
only enough to allow the material to slide along it
easily . The vertical angle (tilt) of the blade must be set
to suit conditions. This is controlled by the lift arm
leveling assembly (turnbuckle) on the tractor 3-point
hitch.
2. SIDE DITCHING: The horizontal angle should be at
its sharpest. This is obtained by removing the shift pin
and turning the moldboard so that the last hole in the
circle plate is in line with the shift pin hole, then
replace the shift pin. It is suggested that the blade be
set in an offset position and then use the shorter
blade side to be the cutting side. This reduces the
load movement on the end of the blade.
The vertical angle of the blade (tilt) is adjusted by
means of the adjustable turnbuckles on the tractor 3point hitch. For the sharpest angle, lengthen the
center link on the tractor as far as possible. Also,
lower the adjustable leveling turnbuckle as far as
possible.
3. LEVELING: The blade should be straight across, i.e.,
90˚ to the line of travel of the tractor, in other words 0˚
horizontal angle.
There should be 0˚ vertical angle, i.e., the lift arms
on the tractor 3-point hitch should be parallel to the
ground.
The cutting pitch of the blade should be the opposite of that used in side ditching and casting, with the
cutting edge behind the top edge of the moldboard.
This adjustment is made with tractor center link.
(NOTE: Most blades are damaged in this position –
use extra care – DO NOT RAM blade into snow or
dirt piles!)
CAUTION!
When using the rear blade in a reverse position use
extra care - DO NOT RAM REAR BLADE into dirt
piles! Tractor lift arms and the rear blade are not
built to take high impact loads in this position. RAMMING backwards can also dislodge operator from
seat and/or tractor controls, resulting in possible
serious injury or death.
6. GRADING: Grading is a combination of casting, side
ditching, and leveling. Snow removal can also be
done with the blade in this position (cutting edge
toward the tractor).
These suggestions are generalities; best results will be
obtained after some experience.
NOTE: Do not load either end of the blade heavily. Try
to balance the load on both ends of the blade.
CAUTION!
Watch for and avoid hidden obstructions, i.e.,
buried pipes, rocks, concrete piers, or uneven slabs
of concrete, when operating, or blade damage may
occur. This is especially true when removing snow.
MAINTENANCE
•Periodically check all bolts and tighten where
necessary.
4. TERRACING: Use a combination of ditching, casting,
and leveling. The first cut is into the hillside in the
ditching position. Continue until the terrace is at
proper depth, then switch to the casting position until
the terrace width is established. It may be necessary
to use the leveling position to complete the job.
•Check the shift pin for excessive wear and replace if
necessary.
•Repaint parts where paint is worn or scratched to
prevent rust.
•Always store blade in a clean, dry location away
from children and livestock.
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Page 7
DC BLADE PA RTS LIST
Page 8
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
MOST ACCIDENTS OCCUR BECAUSE OF NEGLECT OR CARELESSNESS.
AVOID NEEDLESS ACCIDENTS BY FOLLOWING ALL OF THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS LISTED BELOW.
• Machinery should be operated only by those who are
responsible and are authorized to do so.
• Stop the engine, lower all equipment, lock the brakes,
and remove the ignition key before dismounting from the
tractor.
• Never stand between tractor and implement while tractor
is being backed to hitch.
• Loose fitting clothing should not be worn, to avoid catch-
ing on various parts.
• Detach implement in area where children normally do not
play.
• When performing adjustments or maintenance on an
implement, first lower it to the ground or block it securely
at a workable height.
• Only a qualified operator should be permitted on tractor
when in operation; no riders allowed.
• Make certain everyone is in the clear before starting
tractor or raising or lowering equipment.
• Operate the tractor and implement only while seated in
the driver’s seat.
• Reduce speed when transporting mounted implements to
avoid bouncing and momentary loss of steering control.
• A heavy load can cause instability of the tractor. Use
extreme care during road travel. Slow down on turns and
watch out for bumps. Tractor may need front counterweights to counter-balance the weight of the implement.
• Reduce speed on hillsides or curves so there is no
danger of tipping.
• Avoid driving too close to the edge of ditches or creeks.
• Do not transport implement on public roads without
reflectors and slow moving vehicle emblem in daylight
and with approved warning lights at night and other
periods of poor visibility.
• Due to the width of some implements, use extra caution
on highways, farm roads, and when approaching gates.
• Always be sure the implement is in the proper position for
transport.
• Keep alert and watch the front as well as the rear when
working with the implement.
OWNER’S/
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
MODEL NO.’s
DC-4
DC-5
WHEN ORDERING
REPAIR PARTS,
ALWAYS GIVE
THE FOLLOWING
INFORMATION:
1. PART NUMBER
2. PART DESCRIPTION
3. MODEL NUMBER
4. NAME OF ITEM
MAKE EVERY DAY
A HOLIDAY
FROM ACCIDENTS
3 PT. REAR MOUNTED BLADE
For Cat. 0 and Cat. 1 3 Pt. Hitch Tractors
LIMITED WARRANTY
Farm Star warrants its implements, parts and accessories to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of six (6) months from date of purchase. Upon
written approval,Farm Star will repair or exchange without charge any part, which
upon examination byFarm Star or its authorized agent, shall disclose to be defective.
This does not apply to (1) parts that have worn out in normal use, (2) parts broken
because of improper assembly or operation by the customer, (3) parts accidentally
damaged, (4) failure of parts traceable to improper care, (5) parts failing through use
of implement for purposes other than those for which it was designed.
The obligations assumed by Farm Star and the limitations expressed herein are in
lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied.
JANUARY 2001
FS-RB003-OG
FARM STAR
P.O. BOX 100 LITCHFIELD, IL 62056-0100 (217) 324-5973