Great Plains DVN8324 Operator Manual
Table of Contents Index
Operator Manual
8315, 8318, 8321 & 8324
Series VIII Discovator, DVN (Disc & Coulter)
Manufacturing, Inc.
www.greatplainsmfg.com
Read the operator’s manual entirely. When you see this symbol, the
subsequent instructions and warnings are serious - follow without
exception. Your life and the lives of others depend on it!
Illustrations may show optional equipment not supplied with standard unit.
41541
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
© Copyright 2013 Printed 2013-11-25 550-466M
Table of Contents Index
EN
Table of Contents Index
Plains International
Plains International
Plains International
Great Plains International
(166-372M-CZE)
Great Plains International
(166-372M-FRA)
Great Plains International
(166-372M-BUL)
(166-372M-ENG)
Great
(166-372M-HUN)
Great
(166-372M-LIT)
Great
Great Plains International
Plains International
(166-372M-RUS)
Great Plains International
Table of Contents Index
(166-372M-RUM)
Great
(166-372M-GER)
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. iii
Table of Contents
Equipment Identification .............................................1
Machine Label ................................................................1
Machine Record ............................................................. 2
Machine Log...............................................................2
Machine Details..........................................................2
Dealer Information......................................................2
Great Plains Regional Agent ......................................2
Introduction.....................................................................3
Description of Unit ..........................................................3
Using This Manual..........................................................4
Document Family........................................................4
Definitions................................................................... 4
Owner Assistance ..........................................................4
Important Safety Information ...................................... 5
Safety Decals and Lights..............................................10
Preparation and Setup ...............................................16
Initial Setup...................................................................16
Seasonal Setup ............................................................16
Pre-Tilling Setup...........................................................16
Hitching Tractor to Discovator ......................................17
Clevis Hitch...............................................................18
Category III Hitch...................................................... 18
Electrical Hookup......................................................19
Hydraulic Hose Hookup............................................ 20
Brake Hook-up (Option) ...............................................20
Operating Instructions..............................................23
Pre-Start Checklist .......................................................23
Unfolding and Folding ..................................................24
Folding...................................................................... 25
Unfolding ..................................................................26
Lowering and Raising Discovator.................................28
Lowering...................................................................29
Raising .....................................................................30
Transporting the Discovator ......................................... 31
Tractor Requirements............................................... 32
Transport Checklist...................................................32
Brake Operation (option) .............................................. 33
Service Brake Operation ..........................................33
Transport ...................................................................... 35
Transport Steps........................................................35
Hitching a Trailing Implement (Optional) ..................36
Final Field Checklists................................................36
Field Operation.............................................................36
First Time Field Adjustments ....................................... 37
Pre-Leveling of Machine .......................................... 37
Front to Rear Leveling.............................................. 37
Side to Side Leveling ............................................... 38
Disc Gang Depth Calibration.................................... 38
Field Operation of Disc Gangs ................................. 39
Scraper Settings .......................................................... 39
Rear Attachment Settings ............................................ 40
Spike Drag Settings ................................................. 40
HD Spike & Reel Settings ........................................ 40
Coil Tine Settings ..................................................... 41
Reel Settings............................................................ 41
Parking......................................................................... 41
Storage ........................................................................ 42
Unfolded Storage ..................................................... 42
Maintenance and Lubrication ................................... 43
Maintenance Lift Lock .................................................. 44
Maintenance Lift Unlock........................................... 44
Lubrication and Scheduled Maintenance..................... 45
Brake Maintenance (Option) ........................................ 46
Brake Line Charge and Bleed .................................. 46
Drain Hydraulic Brake Lines................................. 46
Charge and Bleed System ...................................47
Air Brake Maintenance............................................. 48
Reservoir Draining ............................................... 48
Air Brake Filter Cleaning ......................................48
Brake Drum and Liner Maintenance ........................ 48
Brake Shoe Replacement ........................................ 50
Brake Drum Maintenance ........................................ 54
Mounting Wheels ..................................................... 55
Test and Adjust Brakes ............................................ 55
Troubleshooting......................................................... 56
General Performance................................................... 56
Coulter/Disc Gang Performance .................................. 57
Sweep/Shank Performance ......................................... 58
Transport...................................................................... 58
Brakes (Option)............................................................ 59
Retract Kit (Option) ...................................................... 61
Appendix..................................................................... 62
DVN Specifications and Capacities ............................. 62
Torque Values Chart.................................................... 63
Tire Inflation Chart ....................................................... 64
Hydraulic Connectors and Torque ............................... 64
Dimensions (Transport) 8315DVN .............................. 65
Dimensions (Transport) 8318DVN............................... 66
© Copyright 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 All rights Reserved
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. provides this publication “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. While every precaution has been
taken in the preparation of this manual, Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. reserves the right to revise and improve its products as
it sees fit. This publication describes the state of this product at the time of its publication, and may not reflect the product in the future.
11/25/2013 550-466M
Trademarks of Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. include: Singulator Plus, Swath Command, Terra-Tine.
Registered Trademarks of Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. include:
Air-Pro, Clear-Shot, Discovator, Great Plains, Land Pride, MeterCone, Nutri-Pro, Seed-Lok, Solid Stand,
Terra-Guard, Turbo-Chisel, Turbo-Chopper, Turbo Max, Turbo-Till, Ultra-Till, Verti-Till, Whirlfilter, Yield-Pro.
Brand and Product Names that appear and are owned by others are trademarks of their respective owners.
Printed in the United States of America
iv 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Dimensions (Transport) 8321DVN............................... 67
Dimensions (Transport) 8324DVN............................... 68
warranty........................................................................69
Index ............................................................................71
550-466M 11/25/2013
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. 1
Equipment Identification
This Operator manual applies to the following Great
Plains pull-type secondary conventional tillage systems:
8315DVN 4.8m, 27-shank, 24 blades
8318DVN 5.5m, 31-shank, 28 blades
8321DVN 6.6m, 37-shank, 32 blades
8324DVN 7.3m, 41-shank, 36 blades
See “DVN Specifications and Capacities” on page 62
for precise swath information.
Refer to Figure 1
For positive equipment identification, consult the
machine label located on the top of the left hand hitch
1
truss, near the single point depth control.
Label/Plate Location
Figure 1
1
41585
Machine Label
Models 8315DVN, 8318DVN, 8321DVN and 8324DVN
can be built to European regulatory and highway transport
standards.The machine can also be built to North American regulatory and highway transport standards, depending on which light option package is purchased.
Refer to Figure 2 (which is NOT from an actual machine)
The machine label provides data which is specific to your
machine as originally shipped from the factory.
If you, or the dealer, have added Options not originally
ordered with the machine, or removed Options that were
originally ordered, the weights and measurements no
longer are accurate for your machine. Update the Record
on the next page upon modifications.
See “Transporting the Discovator” on page 31 and
“DVN Specifications and Capacities” on page 62 for
additional weights and measurements.
Great Plains
Manufacturing, Inc.
P.O. Box 5060
Model Number: Serial Number:
Salina, KS 67401 USA
A1196X8315DVN
Working Width m: Transport Width m: Year of Manufacture:
201199.9 m99.9 m
Total Weight kg:
99999 Kg
Axle Load kg: Drawbar Vertical Load kg:
99999 Kg
*GP-1879DD*
99999 Kg
A1196X
Figure 2:8315DVN:
Example Machine Label
819-197C
42186
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2 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Machine Record
Machine Details
Record your machine details in the Log at right. If you
replace this manual, be sure to transfer this information
to the similar page of the new manual.
If you add or remove Options, update the Log. If the page
cannot be legibly updated, request or print a new Operator manual.
Dealer Information
My Customer
Number / ID
Dealer Name
Street
Place
Post Code
Country
Voice
Machine Log
Machine Model
Serial Number
Working Width
Transport Width
Maximum Gross Weight
Maximum Axle Load
Year of Manufacture
Date of Delivery
Date in Service
Options
Fax
Web
Email
Great Plains Regional Agent
(If different than those on page 4)
Agent Voice
Street Fax
Place Web
Post Code Email
Country
550-466M 11/25/2013
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Equipment Identification 3
Introduction
Great Plains welcomes you to its growing family of new
product owners. Your Discovator 8315-8324DVN has been
designed with care and built by skilled workers using quality materials. Proper setup, maintenance, and safe operating practices will help you get years of satisfactory use
from the machine.
Before placing the machine into service for the first time,
read and understand this manual, in particular the
“Important Safety Information”, pages 5 to 9. Have all
operators read this manual before allowing them to work
with the machine.
Description of Unit
The 8315DVN, 8318DVN, 8321DVN and 8324DVN are
pull-type, field finishing, one pass tillage tool. The
8315DVN, 8318DVN, 8321DVN and 8324DVN are three
section machines that fold for narrow (3m) transport.
A row of hydraulic-adjustable Turbo coulters or shallow
concavity disk blades fractures the ground and size residue
3.8 cm above the sweeps.
The Max-Mix shank pattern increases chemical incorporation, reduces windrowing, and helps eliminate banding.
Four rows of shanks on 71.12 cm centers allows for residue to flow through the machine using the Max-Mix shank
pattern. The effective spacing of the four rows with a 22.9
cm sweep of shanks is a sweep overlap of 6.4 cm. The
shanks can fracture the ground up to 30.5 cm deep.
The DVN models offer optional shank configurations. The
configurations are k-flex spring with a minimum draft
shank, K-Flex spring with a flat shank, heavy duty magnum
spring with a minimum draft shank, or heavy-duty magnum
spring with a flat shank. A 22.86 cm sweep is available with
or without hard facing.
Various finishing attachments are available to customize
your tillage and residue requirements for your operation.
An optional rear hitch is available for pulling implement/
tanks that do not impose high vertical loads on the hitch,
e.g., vertical load < 350kg.
Brakes are optional on DVN models. Service brakes are
operated by air or hydraulic lines to the tractor. Chock
blocks are provided in both brake options to prevent movement of the machine while not connected to the tractor.
Chock blocks are manually placed.
Do not modify the DVN except as instructed by Great
Plains. Do not use attachments other than as provided by
or authorized by Great Plains.
R
L
Figure 3
8315DVN Discovator
R
F
U
B
L
D
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4 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Using This Manual
This manual will familiarize you with safety, hitching,
operation, adjustments, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Read this manual and follow the recommendations to help ensure safe and efficient operation.
The information in this manual is current at printing.
Some parts may change to assure top performance.
Document Family
550-466Q-ENG Assembly Manual
550-466Q Pre-Delivery Manual
550-466M Operator Manual (this document)
550-466P Parts Manual
Definitions
Safety admonishment signal words are described on
page 5.
The following terms are used throughout this manual.
Identifies an Economic (not a Safety) Risk:
NOTICE provides a crucial point of information related to the
current topic. Read and follow the instructions to avoid damage
to equipment and ensure desired field results.
Note: This form sets off useful information related to the
current topic, or forestalls possible misunderstanding.
Right-hand and left-hand as used in
this manual are determined by facing
the direction the machine will travel
while in use unless otherwise stated.
An orientation rose in some line art
illustrations shows the directions of:
Up, Back, Left, Down, Front, Right.
R
F
U
B
L
D
Owner Assistance
If you need customer service or repair parts, contact a
Great Plains dealer. They have trained personnel, repair
parts and equipment specially designed for Great Plains
products.
Your machine’s parts were specially designed and
should only be replaced with Great Plains parts. Always
use the serial and model number (page 1) when ordering
parts from your Great Plains dealer.
Your Great Plains dealer wants you to be satisfied with
your new machine. If you do not understand any part of
this manual or are not satisfied with the service received,
please take the following actions.
1. Discuss the matter with your dealership service
manager. Make sure they are aware of any problems
so they can assist you.
2. If you are still unsatisfied, seek out the owner or general manager of the dealership.
For further assistance contact Great Plains via the Agent
recorded on page 2, or at:
For U.K. and Europe
SIMBA Great Plains
Woodbridge Road Ind. East
Sleaford
Lincolnshire NG34 7EW England
Voice:+44 (0) 1529 304654
Fax:+44 (0) 1529 413468
Email:simba.international@simba.co.uk
For Other Regions
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
PO Box 5060
Salina KS 67402-5060 USA
Voice:+(800)255-9215
Fax:+1 785-822-6722
Email:gp_web_cs@greatplainsmfg.com
550-466M 11/25/2013
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. 5
Important Safety Information
Look for Safety Symbol
The SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL1 indicates there is a
potential hazard to personal safety involved and extra
safety precaution must be taken. When you see this
symbol, be alert and carefully read the message that follows it. In addition to design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are
dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and
proper training of personnel involved in the operation,
transport, maintenance and storage of equipment.
Be Aware of Signal Words
Signal words designate a degree or level of hazard seriousness.
DANGER, and the colour Safety Red, indicate an
imminent hazard which, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury. This signal word is limited to the most
extreme situations, typically for machine components
that, for functional purposes, cannot be guarded.
WARNING, and the colour Safety Orange, indicate a
potential hazard which, 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, and the colour Safety Yellow, indicate a
potential hazard which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
Prepare for Emergencies
▲ Be prepared if a fire starts
▲ Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher handy.
▲ Keep emergency numbers for doctor, ambulance, hospital
and fire department near phone.
Be Familiar with Safety Decals
▲ Read and understand “Safety Decals and Lights”on
page 10, thoroughly.
▲ Read all instructions noted on the decals.
▲ Keep decals clean. Replace damaged, faded and illegible
decals.
1. Symbols and colours in this manual, and on north american models, are based on ANSI standard Z535.
Decals on international models are based on ISO standard 3864.
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6 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Wear Protective Equipment
▲ Wear protective clothing and equipment.
▲ Wear clothing and equipment appropriate for the job. Avoid
loose-fitting clothing.
▲ Because prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause hear-
ing impairment or hearing loss, wear suitable hearing protection such as earmuffs or earplugs.
▲ Because operating equipment safely requires your full
attention, avoid wearing entertainment headphones while
operating machinery.
Use Safety Chains
▲ Use safety chains to help control drawn machinery should it
separate from tractor draw-bar or trailing nurse tank hitch.
▲ Use chain with a strength rating equal to or greater than
the gross weight of towed machinery.
▲ Attach implement chain to tractor draw-bar support or
specified anchor location. Allow only enough slack in chain
for turns.
▲ Replace chain if any links or end fittings are broken,
stretched or damaged.
▲ Do not use safety chain for towing.
Avoid High Pressure Fluids
Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin,
causing serious injury. This Discovator requires a PowerBeyond port, which is always under pressure when the
tractor is running.
▲ Avoid the hazard by relieving pressure at other remote, and
shutting down tractor before connecting, disconnecting or
inspecting hydraulic lines.
▲ Use a piece of paper or cardboard, NOT BODY PARTS, to
check for suspected leaks.
▲ Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles when
working with hydraulic systems.
▲ If an accident occurs, seek immediate medical assistance
from a physician familiar with this type of injury.
Keep Riders Off Machinery
Riders obstruct the operator’s view. Riders could be
struck by foreign objects or thrown from the machine.
▲ Never allow children to operate equipment.
▲ Keep all bystanders away from machine during operation.
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Important Safety Information 7
Tire Safety
Tire changing can be dangerous. Employ trained personnel using correct tools and equipment.
▲ When inflating tires, use a clip-on chuck and extension hose
long enough for you to stand to one side–not in front of or
over tire assembly. Use a safety cage if available.
▲ When removing and installing wheels, use wheel-handling
equipment adequate for weight involved.
Use Safety Lights and Devices
Slow-moving tractors and towed implements can create
a hazard when driven on public roads. They are difficult
to see, especially at night.
▲ Use flashing warning lights and turn signals whenever driv-
ing on public roads.
▲ Use lights and devices provided with implement.
Transport Machinery Safely
Maximum transport speed for implement is 30 kph.
Some rough terrains require a slower speed. Sudden
braking can cause a towed load to swerve and upset.
▲ Do not exceed 30 kph or 20 mph. Never travel at a speed
which does not allow adequate control of steering and stopping. Reduce speed if towed load is not equipped with
brakes.
▲ Comply with national, regional and local laws.
▲ Do not tow an implement or nurse tank that weighs more
than 1.5 times the weight of towing vehicle.
▲ Carry reflectors or flags to mark Discovator in case of
breakdown on the road.
▲ Keep clear of overhead power lines and other obstructions
when transporting. Refer to transport dimensions under
“DVN Specifications and Capacities” on page 62.
▲ Reduce speed on rough roads.
▲ Do not fold or unfold the Discovator while the tractor is
moving.
Shutdown and Storage
▲ Lower Discovator, put tractor in park, turn off engine, and
remove the key.
▲ Secure Discovator using parking jack provided.
▲ Detach and store Discovator in an area where children nor-
mally do not play.
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8 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Practice Safe Maintenance
▲ Understand procedure before doing work. Use proper
tools and equipment. Refer to this manual. For brake
work, see specific safety information beginning on
page 46.
▲ Work in a clean, dry area.
▲ Unfold and lower the implement, put tractor in park, turn
off engine, and remove key before performing maintenance. If work must be performed with implement raised,
use centre section lift lock and gauge lock channels provided.
▲ Make sure all moving parts have stopped and all system
pressure is relieved.
▲ Allow machine to cool completely.
▲ Disconnect battery ground cable (-) before servicing or
adjusting electrical systems.
▲ Welding: Disconnect battery ground. Protect hydraulic
lines. Avoid fumes from heated paint.
▲ Inspect all parts. Make sure parts are in good condition
and installed properly.
▲ Remove buildup of grease, oil or debris.
▲ Remove all tools and unused parts from Discovator before
operation.
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Important Safety Information 9
Safety At All Times
Thoroughly read and understand the instructions in this
manual before operation. Read all instructions noted on
the safety decals.
▲ Be familiar with all Discovator functions.
▲ Operate machinery from the driver’s seat only.
▲ Do not leave Discovator unattended with tractor engine
running.
▲ Do not stand between the tractor and implement, or imple-
ment and nurse tank during hitching.
▲ Keep hands, feet and clothing away from power-driven
parts.
▲ Wear snug-fitting clothing to avoid entanglement with mov-
ing parts.
▲ Watch out for wires, trees, etc., when folding and raising
Discovator. Make sure all persons are clear of working
area.
Accident Prevention
▲ In addition to the Operating Instructions, it is important to
observe the accident prevention regulations specified by
agricultural trade associations. It is the Operator’s responsibility to ensure that all other persons are excluded from
danger zones surrounding or on the machine during its
operation.
It is the Owner’s Responsibility to Ensure;
▲ The Operator is trained and competent to use the machine
and tractor.
▲ The tractor is suitable for the machine.
▲ Adequate Risk and COSHH assessments have been under-
taken regarding the machine’s use, Specifically, these
include issues concerning contact with the soil, crop residues, chemicals, lubricants and other compounds during
operation, maintenance, and he possibility of stones being
ejected at high speed during work.
Beware of trapping hazards when manipulating the parking
jacks, shut-off valves, wheel chocks, or other moving parts.
Ensure any heavy components are fully supported when
removing pins/bolts.
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10 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Safety Decals and Lights
Safety Reflectors and Decals
Your implement comes equipped with all lights, safety
reflectors and decals in place. They were designed to
help you safely operate your implement.
▲ Read and follow decal directions.
▲ Keep lights in operating condition.
▲ Keep all safety decals clean and legible.
▲ Replace all damaged or missing decals. Order new decals
from your Great Plains dealer. Refer to this section for
proper decal placement.
▲ When ordering new parts or components, also request cor-
responding safety decals.
Reflector: Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV)
International: 818-055C North America: 818-055C
To install new decals:
1. Clean the area on which the decal is to be placed.
2. Peel backing from decal. Press firmly on surface,
being careful not to cause air bubbles under decal.
On the back of smv post;
1 total
.
Reflectors: Red Triangles
International: 833-399C North America: n/a
(North American models
use
818-055C SMV reflectors,
838-614C red reflectors &
838-615C amber reflectors.)
One each rear fluorescent panel;
2 total
.
41595
43256
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Important Safety Information 11
Reflectors: Fluorescent Panels
International: 833-398C
One each side, front frame,
one each side, rear;
4 panels total
North America: n/a
43255
Reflectors: Red
International: n/a North America: 838-614C
On rear of light bracelets
both sides (above Orange);
2 total
Reflectors: Orange
International: n/a North America: 838-603C
On rear of light brackets,
both sides
(below Reds);
2 total
43256
41589
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12 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Reflectors: Amber
International: 838-615C
North America: 838-615C
Two on outside of center
frame, one on outside of
brace bar (both sides), two
on rear finishing attachment
(not shown, visible from side
while folded for transport;
8 total
Transport: Speed
International: 848-398C
On speed limit bracket, front
of center brace bar.
1 total
Two on front of light brackets, one on outside of center
frame, one on outside of
brace bar (both sides), two
on rear finishing attachment
(not shown, visible from side
while folded for transport;
8 total
North America: 818-188C
WARNING
EXCESSIVE SPEED HAZARD
To Prevent Serious Injury or Death:
Do Not exceed 20 mph maximum transport
speed. Loss of vehicle control and/or machine
can result.
On front of hitch, (rear);
1 total
818-188C Rev. C
42182
41587
42192
41588
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Important Safety Information 13
Transport: Wheel Chock (Option)
International: 848-757C North America: 848-757C
Outside tube of center frame, near wheel chocks (both
sides);
2 total
42182
Danger: Crush
International: 848-513C North America: 838-600C
Front of hitch, rear of manual pack (front);
1 total
Danger: Electrocution
International: 848-516C North America: 838-599C
On front of brace bar (left side);
1 total
Caution: Tire Pressure & Torque
International: 838-890C North America: 838-890C
41588
41586
Outside, center transport wheel (both sides);
2 total, models 8315 & 8318 only
41596
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14 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Warning: Wing Crushing
International: 848-530C
848-530C REV A
Outside of wing stop tube,
top of brace bar and wing
(both sides);
6 total
North America: 838-602C
42182
Top outside of center frame
and wing (both sides);
4 total
Warning: High Pressure Fluid
International: 848-517C North America: 838-094C
Front of brace bar;
1 total
Warning: Hand Pinch
International: 848-531C North America: 838-611C
Front side of brace bar wing hinge plate (both sides);
2 total
41596
41586
41586
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Important Safety Information 15
Caution: Read Operator Manual
International: 848-512C North America: 838-598C
Front of hitch;
1 total
41588
Caution: Tires Not A Step
International: 848-507C North America: 818-398C
On top center of center frame and wing frame (both
sides);
4 total
Notice: Transport Lock
International: 848-512C North America: 838-613C
Outside, center of center frame (both sides);
2 total
Danger: Cutting of Foot
International: 848-781C North America: 848-271C
41596
41596
On front of left truss (bottom);
1 total
41586
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16 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Preparation and Setup
This section helps you prepare your tractor and 8315,
8318, 8321 & 8324DVNfor use, and covers seasonal
tasks, and tasks when the tractor/Discovator configuration changes.
Before using the 8315, 8318, 8321 & 8324DVN in the
field, you must hitch the Discovator to a suitable tractor,
inspect systems and level the Discovator. Before using
the Discovator for the first time, and periodically thereafter, certain adjustments and calibrations are required.
Initial Setup
See “First Time Field Adjustments” on page 37 and
“Hitching a Trailing Implement (Optional)” on page 36
for pre-delivery items (normally completed by dealer),
and first-time/infrequent setup tasks, including:
❑ Remove protective film from large highway reflec-
tors.
Seasonal Setup
On initial delivery, use with a new tractor, and seasonally,
check and as necessary, complete these items before
continuing to the routine setup items:
❑ Bleed hydraulic system (page 30).
❑ Wing levelling and alignment (page 38).
❑ De-grease exposed cylinder rods if so protected at
last storage.
Pre-Tilling Setup
Complete this checklist before routine setup:
❑ Read and understand “Important Safety Informa-
tion” on page 5.
❑ Check that all working parts are moving freely, bolts
are tight, and cotter pins are spread.
❑ Make sure your tractor horsepower matches the
implement you are pulling. This is important so the
implement can do the best possible job.
❑ Clean all hydraulic couplings and connect to tractor
as shown on page “Hydraulic Hose Hookup” on
page 20.
❑ If machine is folded, be sure the wing lock valve is
locked. Remove wing locking pins. Open the lock
valve on front of brace bar and slowly unfold the unit.
Make sure no one is under the wings during the
unfolding process.
❑ Check again for hydraulic leaks and watch that
hoses do not get pinched in hinges, wing stops, etc.
❑ After the machine is completely unfolded, remove
both transport locks from lift cylinders, raise and
lower the Discovator several times to purge air from
the hydraulic system. Again check for hydraulic leaks
and tighten or replace if necessary.
❑ Check safety chain hookup. Make sure all warning
lights are hooked up and functioning correctly.
❑ Put transport locks back in place on lift cylinders.
❑ Check that all grease fittings are in place and lubri-
cated. See “Lubrication and Scheduled Maintenance” on page 45. The hubs will come pre-greased
and will not need greased at this time.
❑ Check that all safety decals and reflectors are cor-
rectly located and legible. Replace if damaged. See
“Safety Decals and Lights” on page 10.
❑ Inflate tires to pressure recommended and tighten
wheel bolts as specified. See “Tire Inflation Chart”
on page 64.
❑ Re-fold the machine slowly. Close the lock valve on
the front of the brace bar. Always use the transport
locks and close lock valve when moving from field to
field. You are now ready to go to the field.
550-466M 11/25/2013
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Preparation and Setup 17
Hitching Tractor to Discovator
Crushing Hazard:
You may be severely injured or killed by being crushed between
the tractor and implement. Do not stand or place any part of
your body between implement and moving tractor. Stop tractor
engine and set tractor parking brake before attaching cables
and hoses.
Improper Pull Hazard:
Severe injury or death may result if improper transport vehicle
is used. Hitch to tractor for highway transport or field operations. Hitch to a leading implement only for field operations.
Do not transport behind another implement.
Before hitching, check the compatibility of the towing tractor
or implement.
For hillsides and steep slopes, set tractor wheels as wide as
possible for maximum stability.
Hitch Failure Risk:
The 8315/8318/8321/8324DVN Discovator are pull-type
implements equipped with standard Category IV single tang
hitch. It may be converted to a Category III or clevis hitch
using supplied accessory parts. Always have two (2) bolts in
two holes of both tongue and hitch.
Tractor Oil Flow Adjustment Risk:
As a general rule the tractor oil flow rate should be set to the
lower setting before starting. Oil flow can be increased to
allow the desired rate of operation as applicable. Performing
the adjustment will minimise excessive oil flow and consequent
power usage and heat generation.
Extended Parking Risk:
When the 8315/8318/8321/8324DVN Discovator are parked
for extended periods of time, it should ideally be left in the
unfolded, i.e work position for stability, safety and ease of
access for maintenance. However, parking the 8315/8318/
8321/8324DVN Discovator in the fold position (ensuring
transport locks are engaged) is acceptable in the normal
course of operation.
Drawbar Sway Risk:
Lock drawbar swing to center position to minimize any sideto-side sway to assure proper tracking in the field, and safe
road travel. See “Transporting the Discovator” on
page 31, for safe transporting.
o prevent soil compaction on rows, set tractor wheels
between rows.Raise tractor three-point arms (if
equipped) clear up to clear Discovator.
1. For TWO-WHEEL DRIVE and MFWD tractors, pin
drawbar in fixed center position for field and transport. For FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE and TRAC-DRIVE
11/25/2013 550-466M
18 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
tractors, leave one hole clearance on each side of drawbar for field position, hitch damage may occur if pinned
solid. Pin in center position for transport to maintain maximum steering control.
Clevis Hitch
Refer to Figure 4
The base hitch must be upright (with the recessed notch
on the bottom) for this configuration. This places the
tongue weight on the base hitch, and not the clevis.
1. Select one each:
890-798C HITCH CLEVIS
82
802-487C HHCS 3/4-10X6 GR8
48
803-367C NUT HEX TOP LOCK 3/4-10 PLT
62
2. With the square-shouldered end of the clevis up,
fully seat the clevis in the upright base hitch .
Insert the Grade 8 bolt from below. Secure with
lock nut .
62
48
82
83
62
82
48
Hitch Failure Hazard:
Install the hitch base and assemble the clevis parts as shown.
Incorrect installation or assembly may result in failure of the
clevis bolt, leading to hitch failure. This could result in a serious highway accident or severe machine damage.
83
Category III Hitch
The base hitch must be inverted (with the recessed notch
on the top) for this configuration. Set the V-block to
allow some vertical articulation of the draw bar pin.
Always use at least one cushion .
88
1. Select one each:
PPI-302V TOP PLATE - CAT 3
89
PPI-203VR V-BLOCK
87
802-383C HHCS 3/4-10X3 GR5
47
and two:
PPI-205H CUSHION
88
2. Set the cushions inside the hitch recess , just for-
ward of the vertical bolt hole. Position the V-block
forward of the cushions and check the size of the
resulting pinning hole. Remove a cushion if needed.
3. Add the top plate . Secure from below with
Grade 5 bolt .
89
47
87
88
87
89
88
87
47
Figure 4
Configure Hitch
31740
42326
31741
550-466M 11/25/2013
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Preparation and Setup 19
Refer to Figure 5
4. Use parking jack to raise and lower Discovator
1
tongue.
5. Remove hitch pin from tractor draw-bar.
6. Back tractor draw-bar into alignment with hitch . Set
tractor parking break.
7. Secure with a locking hitch pin.
8. Secure safety chain to an anchor on the tractor.
3
9. Retract jack foot.
3
2
4
3
10. After hitching tractor to implement, store parking jack
on storage stob on Discovator tongue.
4
1
11. Connect hydraulic hoses (page 20).
12. Connect brake hoses (option, page 22).
13. Connect electrical cables (option, page 19).
Figure 5
Parking Jack and Hitch
42184
Electrical Hookup
Refer to Figure 6
Make sure tractor is shut down with accessory power off
before making connections.
14. Mate lighting connector to tractor outlet.
15. Mate any optional or after-market electrical connectors.
16. Make connections prior to 8315-8324DVN movement.
Figure 6
Lighting Connector European
and North American
41995
25236
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20 8315-8324DVN Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Hydraulic Hose Hookup
Great Plains hydraulic hoses are color coded to help you
hookup hoses to your tractor outlets. Hoses that go to the
same remote valve are marked with the same color.
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Shut down tractor before making hydraulic connections.
Only trained personnel should work on system hydraulics!
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient pressure to
penetrate the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the hazard by
relieving pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines. Use a
piece of paper or cardboard, NOT BODY PARTS, to check for
leaks. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles
when working with hydraulic systems. If an accident occurs,
seek immediate medical assistance from a physician familiar
with this type of injury.
Refer to Figure 7
To distinguish hoses on the same hydraulic circuit, refer to
handle symbols.
• The hose with an extended-cylinder symbol feeds a cylinder base end.
• The hose with a retracted-cylinder symbol feeds a cylinder rod end.
Secure hoses and cables so that they have sufficient
slack for hitch movements, but cannot get caught between
moving parts of tractor, implement or hitch. Failure to
safely route and secure hoses and cables could result in
damage requiring component repair/replacement, and
lost field time.
Clean all hydraulic couplings and hook hoses to tractor.
Figure 7
Hose Handles
Color Hydraulic Function
Black Lift (2 hoses)
Green Fold (2 hoses)
Red Gang (2 hoses)
“BRAKES” Hydraulic trailer brakes (Option)
31733
Brake Hook-up (Option)
Two 8315-8324DVN braking (trailer braking) systems are
available:
• Dual-line air system (Figure 8) with wheel chocks
(Figure 10) for parking and
• Single-line hydraulic (Figure 9) with wheel chocks
(Figure 10).
In both systems, the tractor’s trailer brake remote port(s)
operate a hydraulic slave cylinder on the Discovator.
Tractor trailer braking systems are normally integrated
with the tractor brakes, and operate the trailer brakes
when tractor brakes are used during tractor movement.
The trailer braking system may or may not be integrated
with the tractor parking brake system.
550-466M 11/25/2013
Figure 8
Air Brake System
41928
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