HighLine RCH Hydro Operator's Manual

Rotary Mower

™

RCH Hydro

™

Radial Contouring Hitch

O P E R A T O R ' S M A N U A L

E14362V1

Rotary Mower

RCH Hydro

™

Radial Contouring Hitch ™

Operator’s

Manual

Printed in Canada Copyright © 2016 by Highline Manufacturing Ltd. All rights reserved.
The content of this manual was based on the most current information available as of the date of copyright. It is the policy of

Highline Manufacturing Limited to improve and develop our products continually. We reserve the right to make changes or add
improvements, at any time, without incurring any obligation to make changes or improvements on machines previously sold.
Changes may not be reflected in this manual.

Highline Manufacturing Limited

HWY #27, P.O. Box 307

Vonda, SK S0K 4N0

Canada

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Toll Free: 1.800.665.2010

E14362V1

Highline Manufacturing Ltd. Rotary Mower - RCH Hydro

Highline Team Message

Congratulations on your purchase of the Rotary Mower RCH Hydro manufactured by
Highline Manufacturing Ltd. We are excited about your endeavor into cutting with the most
technically advanced rotary cutter known to date. You will find flexibility and maneuverability
of operation with this product that has never been experienced before. Welcome to the elite
group of Highline Rotary Mower owners.

This Operator's Manual has been prepared to provide information necessary for the safe and
efficient operation of your Rotary Mower. In the manual you will find safety procedures,
maintenance routines and detailed operational instructions.

If you find that you require information not covered in this manual, please feel free to consult
your local dealer. Your dealer is always able to contact Highline for this technical information.

Highline Manufacturing Ltd. thanks and congratulates you for selecting a Rotary Mower as your
machine of choice.

Highline Manufacturing Ltd.

Table of Contents

Section 1 - Safety

Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Safety Sign-off Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Safety Alert Symbol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

General Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Safety Decal Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

Tractor requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Ensure correct PTO speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Adjust tractor drawbar length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Lift the hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Connect the hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Connect the safety chain to the tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tractor wheel tread width settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Route the hydraulic hoses and wiring harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Attach the driveline to the PTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Attach the hydraulics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Connect the lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Place the hitch jack in the storage location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Check on the condition of all the tires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Raise the wings until they rest in place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Install the wing transport lock pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Lower the mower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Height cylinder transport lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Install the hitch transport locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) sign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

taillights and flashing warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Transport speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

Park the tractor and mower on level ground. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Ensure the lighting is working properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Optional joystick control, confirm that the hydraulic control block is configured . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Check the condition of the blade pans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Check the condition of the blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Lift the height control transport lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Remove the wing transport lock pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Remove the hitch transport locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Level the mower center section deck front to back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Verify the blade direction rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Determine the wing height adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Wing height adjustment procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Set the preferred cutting height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Inspect all the hydraulic cylinders, pump, motors and hoses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Clear debris from the oil cooling tank, radiator and cooling fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Check the oil level in the oil tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Ensure the shutoff valves at the bottom of the tank are in the open position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Check the oil filter operating pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Check the oil level in the pump gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Check the condition of the chain guards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Inspect the wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Inspect the wing skid plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Inspect the center section skid plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

wing skid plate wheel is installed, check the condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

10 Foot Models, inspect the center deck skid and counterweights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Ensure the driveline is securely attached . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Ensure the driveline shields are lowered into place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Lubricate all grease fittings and check the fluid level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Hydraulic Oil Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Move both wing transport lock pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Remove the hitch cylinder transport locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Lower the wings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Controlling the Mower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Control Box - 3 Remote Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Control Box - Joystick Control (1 Remote) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Joystick Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Swing the mower deck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Lower to the cutting height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Adjust ground speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Move the wing blade pans switches on the control box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Operate the PTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Allow the wings to float . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Avoid cutting into the ditch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Swing the mower deck away from obstructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Check that the hydraulic oil cooling fan is operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Responding to a High Oil Temperature Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Do not drive or swing the mower into following or on-coming traffic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Cross ditches and steep inclines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Making Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Recommended Practices for a Quality Cut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Check the oil level in the pump gearbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Check the oil level in the oil tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Check the oil filter operating pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Replacing the Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Clear debris from the oil cooling tank, radiator and cooling fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Oil Tank Oil Changing Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Gearbox Oil Changing Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Blade Replacement Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Removing and Replacing the Blade Pan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Front Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Rear Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Section 6 - Storing the Mower

Clean all the debris off the mower decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Lubricate all mower grease points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Park the mower on level ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Lower the mower until the hydraulic height control cylinder is resting on the transport lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Place the wing transport lock pins in place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

jack from the storage position and place it onto the hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Remove the driveline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Disconnect the safety chain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Disconnect the hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

hydraulic hoses and disconnect them. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Disconnect the electrical connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Secure the hydraulic hoses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Place the PTO driveline in the support bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Change the oil in the gear box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Operation .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Center Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Wings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Mower Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Cooling Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Fan Control Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Hydraulic Manifold - Joystick Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Tractor Hydraulic Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Pump Gear Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Driveline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Section 8 - Specifications

Radial Contouring Hitch Hydro
RCH Hydro 15 Foot - has a center deck and

two wing decks. The cutting width is 15 feet
(4.6 m). This model can be configured for
Right Hand Slope (With Traffic) cutting and
Level Ground cutting.

Operating in Ditch

214064

RCH Hydro 10 Foot - has a center deck and
a right wing deck. The cutting width is 10 feet
(3.0 m). This model can be configured for
Right Hand Slope (With Traffic) cutting and
Level Ground cutting.

Winged Up

214106

Operating In Ditch

215069

Winged Up

215070

Section 1 - Safety

SERIAL NUMBER

Your serial number is found on the serial number plate (1) attached to a bracket on the oil
tank.

Serial Plate Location

It is important to record the serial number for proof of ownership and for any service or
maintenance assistance.

215071C

Serial Number
Owner
Model
Date of Purchase

Be Trained Before Operating Mowers!

Safety Training Makes a Difference.

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers offers the 22 minute video,
“Industrial and Agricultural Mower Safety Practices: A Safety Training
Program for Operators of Rotary-Type Mowing Equipment”.

This video reinforces the proper procedures to follow while operating rotary
mowing equipment.

To view the video on the Internet or to order a copy, please visit the Association of Equipment
Manufacturers website at www.aem.org and go the Safety & Training section.

The video does not replace the information contained in this Operator’s Manual. Please read
and understand this manual before operating the mower.

Page 1-1

Section 1 - Safety

SAFETY SIGN-OFF FORM

Highline Manufacturing Ltd. follows the general Safety Standards specified by the American
Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA). Anyone who will be operating and/or maintaining the Highline
Rotary Mower should read and clearly understand all Safety, Operating and Maintenance
information presented in this manual.

Do not operate or allow someone to operate this equipment until this information has been
reviewed. This information should be reviewed by all operator’s before the season start-up.

This sign-off sheet is provided for record keeping to indicate that the person working with the
equipment has read and understood the information in the Operator’s Manual and has been
instructed in the safe operation of the equipment.

Date Employee’s Signature Employer’s Signature

Page 1-2

Section 1 - Safety

SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

The Safety Alert Symbol means:

ATTENTION!
BECOME ALERT!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!

The Safety Alert Symbol combined with a Signal Word alert to the presence of a hazard and the
degree of possible injury.

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not
avoided, WILL result in DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
The color is Red with White lettering.

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 or unsafe practices. The color is
Orange with Black lettering.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not
avoided, MAY result in MINOR INJURY. The color is
Yellow with Black lettering.

Page 1-3

Section 1 - Safety

GENERAL SAFETY

1. Ensure that anyone who is going to operate, maintain or work near the Rotary Mower is
familiar with the recommended operating, maintenance procedures and safety information
contained in this manual and follows all the safety precautions.

2. “In addition to the design and configuration of the equipment, hazard control and accident
prevention are dependant upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of
personnel involved in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of the mower.”

3. The mower shall not be operated without all the guards in place.

SAFETY DECALS

1. Keep decals and signs clean and legible at all times.

2. Replace decals and signs that are damaged, missing or have become illegible.

3. Replaced parts that displayed a decal should also display the current decal.

4. Decals are available from the Highline Parts Department.

5. Be familiar with the decals, the type of warning and the area or function(s) related to the
area(s) that requires your awareness.

Page 1-4

Section 1 - Safety

DO NOT CONTACT ROTATING DRIVELINE

Contact with rotating driveline will cause serious injury or death.
Keep all driveline guards in place.
Securely attach drivelines at both ends.
Check that the driveline guards turn freely on driveline.

DO NOT OPERATE WITH SHIELDS MISSING

DO NOT CONTACT ROTATING BLADES

Rotating blades can cause serious injury or death.
Always disengage power take off, shut off tractor, remove key, set
park brake and wait for all parts to stop turning before servicing.
Keep guards in place and in good condition.

DO NOT OPERATE MOWER WITH WINGS RAISED

Contact with exposed rotating blades may cause injury or death.
Rotating blades may throw objects, causing injury or death

STAND CLEAR OF WINGS

Falling wings can cause serious injury or death.
Wing cylinders must be fully retracted and wing lock pins in place
before servicing.
Never stand under wings when lowering or raising.

Page 1-5

Section 1 - Safety

STAY BACK FROM MOWER IN OPERATION WHICH CAN
DISCHARGE OBJECTS SEVERAL HUNDREDS OF FEET

Thrown objects can cause serious injury or death.
Stand clear of mower when PTO is engaged.
Do not operate within 300 ft (100m) of any person.
Keep all shields and guards in place.
Clear mowing area of debris.

INSPECT BLADES FOR DAMAGE

Worn or damaged blades can cause serious injury or death.
Blades must be inspected daily for gouges, wear or cracks.

Replace blade pairs at maximum of 50 hours.
Replace the blade pair if the tip or leading edge is worn so that only
2" (51 mm) of the blade remains.
Replace blades if gouged or cracked.
Blades must be changed in sets.
Use only Highline replacement parts.

Do not repair blades.

STAND CLEAR OF ROTATING DECK

Contact with rotating deck can cause serious injury or death.
Stand clear of mower deck. Mower deck can rotate rapidly.

DO NOT SWING DECK AND HITCH ARM NEAR BYSTANDERS
OR INTO TRAFFIC

The deck and hitch arm can swing rapidly from left to right causing
serious injury or death.
Do not swing the mower near bystanders.
Do not swing the mower into following or oncoming traffic.

Page 1-6

Section 1 - Safety

ENSURE SLOW MOVING VEHICLE SIGN IS IN PLACE

Ensure the Slow Moving Vehicle sign is in place, clean and easily
visible.

Ensure the reflectors are in place, clean and easily visible.

READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THIS DECAL

Page 1-7

Section 1 - Safety

STAND CLEAR WHEN MOWER IS BEING RAISED OR
LOWERED

Crushing can cause serious injury or death.
Always install height control lock and blocks under each section of
the implement before servicing.

DO NOT OPERATE ON SIDE HILL WITH WINGS RAISED

Tractor or mower roll over can cause serious injury or death.
Tractor must be equipped with Roll Over Protection System.
(ROPS)
Always wear seat belts when operating tractor.

USE PAPER OR CARDBOARD TO CHECK FOR HYDRAULIC
LEAKS

To prevent serious injury or death:
Relieve pressure on hydraulic system before repairing, adjusting or
disconnecting.
Wear proper hand and eye protection when searching for leaks.
Use wood or cardboard instead of hands.
Keep all components in good repair.

KEEP MOWER DECK CLEAR OF DEBRIS

Fires can occur if dry material builds up on the mower deck.
Always ensure deck is kept clean.
A clean deck ensures optimum performance of wing lift and height
control.

DO NOT RIDE ON MACHINE

Falling from the moving machine can cause serious injury or
death.
Falling from the operating machine can cause being entangled
under the machine or being injured by the machine.

DO NOT EXCEED PTO SPEED

Do not operate at excess speeds or damage to the mower may
result.

Page 1-8

Section 1 - Safety

DO NOT TOUCH HOT SURFACES

Heat from the hydraulic oil causes surfaces to be hot.
Do not touch pump, motors, oil tank, oil cooler or hydraulic hoses
while using mower.

Allow a cool down time before touching or servicing these items.

Page 1-9

SAFETY DECAL LOCATIONS

Section 1 - Safety

Page 1-10

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

2.0 TRANSPORTING THE MOWER

Only tow the mower behind a
properly sized and equipped
tractor which exceeds the weight
of the mower by 50%. Do not tow
the mower behind a truck or other
type of vehicle

Do not allow children or other
people to ride on the tractor or
mower. Falling off can result in
serious injury or death.

1. Tractor requirements.

- Roll Over Protection System (ROPS)

- Working seatbelts

- 1 3/8" 21 spline PTO

- Recommend 115 PTO HP

2. Ensure correct PTO speed.

- Ensure that the tractor PTO speed
matches the mower’s gearbox speed
of 1000 rpm.

- Do not attempt to operate the mower
at a different PTO speed.

3. Adjust tractor drawbar length.

- Set the drawbar length to 16" (406
mm) for a 1 3/8" 21 spline PTO.

- This length is measured from the tip of
the PTO shaft end to the center of the
drawbar hole. (Refer to your tractor’s
operator manual for drawbar
adjustment procedures.)

Note: To prevent damage to the tractor

drawbar, avoid traveling at high
speeds and over rough terrain.

Note: Do not use PTO adapters.

PTO adapters will cause a
driveline failure and possible
tractor damage. Your mower
warranty will also be invalid.

Tractor Drawbar Adjustment for 1000 RPM

108005

Page 2-1

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

4. Lift the hitch.

- Lift the hitch arm with the jack (1).

- The hitch arm is very heavy. Do
not attempt to lift it without using
the jack.

- Adjust the hitch to connect the
drawbar.

5. Connect the hitch.

- Connect the tractor drawbar to the
drawbar connector with:

- 1 1/4" x 5" bolt, washer, locknut

and nut (1). Torque to 600 lbf (813
Nm)

- 3/4" x 3½" bolt,washer, lockwasher

and nut (2). Torque to 260 lbf (352
Nm).

- Place a ½" thick shim plate (1) on
each side of the drawbar and fasten in
place with 3/8" x 5" bolt and locknut
(2 ).

Lift Hitch with Jack

Connecting Drawbar Connector

213044C

107082C

Page 2-2

Drawbar Shims

107083C

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

6. Connect the safety chain to the tractor.

- Ensure the safety chain rating is equal

or greater than the gross weight of the
mower.

- Route the safety chain (1) through the

large slot (2) in the drawbar
connector. Securely fasten the chain
to the tractor and lock in place with the
hook lock.

7. Tractor wheel tread width settings.

- Increase the tractor rear wheel widths

to maintain tractor stability when
working on inclines or rough ground.

Connect the Safety Chain

108167C

8. Route the hydraulic hoses and wiring
harness through the hose support arm.

Route Hoses Through Holder

214034

Page 2-3

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

9. Attach the driveline to the PTO.
Shut off the tractor engine before

attaching PTO driveline.
Entanglement in the rotating
driveline can cause serious injury
or death.

The mower shall not be operated
without the driveline shields in
place.

- Shut off the tractor engine and
remove the key.

- Check that the driveline telescopes
easily and that the shields are in good
condition and rotate freely.

- Lift the tractor PTO shield.

- Support the driveline, pull back on the
yoke collar, align the splines by
rotating the mower driveline and push
the driveline into the tractor PTO shaft
until the collar snaps into place.

- Push and pull the yoke several times
to ensure the driveline is locked. Do
not pull on the collar as this will
release the lock.

- Lower the tractor & hitch PTO shields
into place.

Attach Driveline to PTO

108167

Page 2-4

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

10. Attach the hydraulics.

The mower requires 3 remote connections.

- If the optional joystick is included, then

only 1 remote connection is required.

- For the joystick option, the
hydraulic lever will work in only
one direction. There is a check
valve on the valve manifold. If the
hydraulics are not working, move
the lever in the opposite direction.

- Clean the end of the hoses (1) and
the connection.

- Firmly push the hoses into the tractor
receptacle according to user
preference.

Attach Hydraulics and Lighting

108008C

- Route the hoses so they do not
interfere with moving parts.

11. Connect the lights.

- Connect the light plug (2) into the
appropriate tractor receptacle.

- Ensure the light cable does not
interfere with or contact moving parts.

12. If the optional joystick is on the
machine, route the joystick cable.

- Ensure the cable does not interfere
with or contact moving parts.

13. Place the hitch jack in the storage
location.

Page 2-5

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

14. Check on the condition of all the tires.

- Ensure that the lug nuts have the flat

side of the lug nut against the wheel
rim.

- Torque the lug nuts to 75 lbf (101

Nm).

Laminated Tires:
! Do not transport the mower on

roadways for long distances with
laminated tires.

15. Raise the wings until they rest in
place.

Laminated Tires

107074C

16. Install the wing transport lock pins (1)
on both wings and clip the pins into
place.

17. Lower the mower until the hydraulic
height control cylinder is resting on the
height cylinder transport lock (2).

Install the Wing Transport Lock Pins

216047C

Page 2-6

Height Cylinder Resting on Transport Lock

216048C

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

18. Install the hitch transport locks (1)
over both hitch hydraulic cylinders and
pin into place.

19. Ensure that the Slow Moving Vehicle
(SMV) sign (1) is clean and visible.

20. Ensure that the taillights (2) are clean,
visible and in good working order.

21. Transport speed.

Hitch Transport Locks

Ensure SMV is Visible & Lights are Working

214067C

214107C

- Do not exceed 20 mph (32 km/h).

Page 2-7

Transport Speed

214106

Section 2 - Transporting the Mower

This Page Left Blank

Page 2-8

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

3.0 MOWER PREPARATION

1. Park the tractor and mower on level

ground.

- Engage the tractor parking brake.

2. Ensure that all decals are clean and in

place.

3. Ensure that the Slow Moving Vehicle

(SMV) sign is clean and visible.

4. Ensure the lighting is working properly.

5. Connect the electrical power for the

mower to an outlet that is rated for 30
amps or more to ensure sufficient power
for the cooling fan.

- The power can also be taken directly
from the tractor battery.

Clean SMV and Lights

214107

6. For mowers with the optional joystick
control, confirm that the hydraulic control
block is configured for the type of circuit
that is on the tractor.

- If the tractor has a Closed-loop circuit,

then the mower control block should
have a plug (1) in the last port.

- If tractor has an Open-loop circuit,

- Remove the plug from the mower
control block.

- Install the solenoid valve (2) that
came with the joystick.

- Connect the wiring harness
connector marked “F1".

If the mower will be used with both open-loop
system and closed-loop system tractors, then
run the control block with the solenoid valve
installed.

Block with Plug - Closed Loop Tractors

Block with Solenoid - Open Loop Tractors

214118C

214119C

Page 3-1

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

7. Check the condition of the blade pans.
Securely block-up the mower

before any work is done under the
mower when lifted up. This is to
prevent the mower from dropping
due to inadvertent operation of
controls, hydraulic leaking or
failure of any components.

- Clean debris and material buildup
from the blade pan area and from the
pans.

- Check that no wire or other materials
are wrapped around the shaft or pan.

- Inspect the pan for damage caused by
contact with an object.

- Inspect blade pan mounting hardware
for damage.

- Inspect blade mounting bolts for
damage.

Inspect Blades & Hardware

201059

Page 3-2

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

8. Check the condition of the blades.

- Inspect the blades daily.

- Check that the blades swing freely.
Note: Do not sharpen the blades.

Replace them with Highline
blades.

! Replace the blade pair at a maximum

of 50 hours regardless of the wear
because of the possibility of metal
fatigue and non-visible cracks in the
blades. Replace with Highline blades.

! Replace the blade pair if the tip or

leading edge is worn so that only 2"
(51 mm) of the blade remains.
Replace with Highline blades.

! Replace the blade pair if a blade is

gouged, has visible cracks or is bent.
Replace with Highline blades.

Replace blades in pairs with only
Highline blades.

-See “Blade Replacement
Procedure” in the Maintenance
Section.

Replace Blade When Tip/Leading Edge Worn

Replace Blade When Gouged

1070802C

107080

Page 3-3

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

6. Lift the height control transport lock.

- Raise the mower center section by
extending the lift cylinder.

- Shut off the tractor and remove the
ignition key.

- Lift the height control cylinder lock (1).

7. Remove the wing transport lock pins.

- Place the pins into the pin storage
position (1).

Lift the Height Control Transport Lock

216009C

8. Remove the hitch transport locks from the
hitch cylinders.

- Store the transport locks in the

toolbox.

Remove Hitch Cylinder Locks

Page 3-4

Remove Wing Transport Lock Pins

216049C

214039

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

9. Lower the wings on level ground.

10. Level the mower center section deck

front to back.

Note: Do this procedure on level ground.

- Raise the mower to full height by
extending the height cylinders.
Hold the lever for a few seconds to
ensure the phasing cylinders are
synchronized.

- Lower the mower to the preferred
cutting height.

Height from Front Wing Pivot to Ground

201061

- Measure the left side from the
center of the front wing pivot to the
ground.

- Verify this measurement at the

left back wing pivot to the
ground.

- Compare this height to the right
front and the right back at the
center of the wing pivots to the
ground.

Height from Back Wing Pivot to Ground

201062

Page 3-5

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

- Use the level adjuster near the rear center lift cylinder to adjust the center section for
front to back level.

Note: The tie rod does not adjust for left to right leveling of the center deck. The rear

wheels are on pivot joints to allow for right to left self-levelling.

- Loosen the tie rod jam nut (1).

- Turn the adjuster nut (2) to raise or
lower the center rear wheels.

- To lower the mower, loosen the

adjuster nut.

- To raise the mower, tighten the

adjuster nut.

- Tighten the tie rod jam nut (1) to lock
in place.

- Measure and compare the level from
the front to back.

- Adjust further if required.

Level Adjuster & Jam Nut

214040C

Page 3-6

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

Primary Mowing Operating Conditions

There are 2 primary operating conditions:

- Mowing on Slopes such as roadway ditches when traveling with traffic.

- Mowing on Level Ground.

11. Verify the blade direction rotation.

! Direction of blade rotation is indicated by decals near the motor on the deck of the center

and wing sections.

- Verify that the blades turn in the direction of the decal.

- Verify that the leading edge of the blade moves into the direction of rotation.

! Compare the blade directions to the diagram below.

RCH Hydro 15 Foot RCH Hydro 10 Foot

Blade Direction for Right Hand Slope or
Level Ground

107106

Blade Direction for Right Hand Slope or
Level Ground

108225R

Page 3-7

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

13. Determine the wing height adjustment.

15 Foot Mower

! Slope Operation

- Confirm the Wing Height
according to the diagram.

- As needed, use the Wing
Adjustment Procedure (listed
below):

- Raise the outer edge of the left

wing (road side) ½" (12 mm) up
from the leveled center section.

- Lower the outer edge of the

right wing (ditch side) ½"
(12mm) down from the leveled
center section.

- This will enable the wings to

contour to the ditch.

|»Roadway

Wing Adjustment for Slopes- From Behind

107016

! Level Ground Operation

- Confirm the Wing Height
according to the diagram.

- As needed, use the Wing

Adjustment Procedure (listed
below) to level the left wing and
right wing with the leveled
center section.

Level Ground Wing Adjustment - From Behind

107101

Page 3-8

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

10 Foot Mower

! Slope Operation

- Confirm the Wing Height

according to the diagram.

- As needed, use the Wing

Adjustment Procedure (listed
below):

- Lower the outer edge of the
right wing (ditch side) ½"
(12mm) down from the leveled
center section.

- This will enable the wings to
contour to the ditch.

! Level Ground Operation

- Confirm the Wing Height
according to the diagram.

- Right Wing - level with the center
section.

- As needed, use the Wing
Adjustment Procedure(see below).

|»Roadway
Wing Adjustment for Slopes - From Behind

Level Ground Wing Adjustment - From Behind

108169

215072

Page 3-9

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

13. Wing height adjustment procedure.
Note: Level the center section before adjusting wing height.

- Fully raise the mower by extending the
lift cylinders. Hold the lever open for
30 seconds or until the phasing
cylinders are synchronized.

- On a level surface, lower the mower to
the preferred cutting height.

- On one wing, measure the height from
the top of the chain mount strap near
the center section (1) to level ground.
Compare the measurement to a
location on the outer wing section (2).

Measure Wing Heights

107032C

- Loosen the wing height adjustment
jam nut (1).

- Adjust the height of the wing using

the adjustment nut (2).

- Use the Wing Height Adjustment

diagram (shown above) for the
heights.

- Measure and compare.

- Tighten the jam nut (1).

- Repeat the procedure on the other
wing.

Adjust Wing Height

214137C

Page 3-10

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

14. Set the preferred cutting height.

- Lower the wings.

- Raise the mower to the preferred
cutting height.

- Install height stops (1) around the
cylinder rod to maintain the
preferred cutting height

15. Inspect all the hydraulic cylinders,
pump, motors and hoses.

Use a piece of cardboard or
heavy paper to check for leaks.
Do not use your hand. Wear
proper hand and eye protection
when searching for leaks.

Relieve pressure on the hydraulic
system before repairing, adjusting
or disconnecting.

Height Stops Installed

214041C

- Check for hydraulic leaks along the
hydraulic lines and at the tractor.

- Ensure the proper size pins are in
place and secured.

Page 3-11

Inspect Hydraulic Components and Hoses

214107

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

16. Clear debris from the removable chaff
screen.

- Remove the screen to clean the both
sides of the screen.

- Use a broom, low pressure air and
water to clean the screen.

17. With the chaff screen removed, clear
the debris from the oil cooling tank
and the radiator.

- Use a broom and a low pressure air
hose to remove the debris.

18. Clear debris from the fan on the
backside of the oil tank .

Clear Debris from the Chaff Screen

Clear Debris from Radiator

216050

216051

Note: When the fan initially starts up, the

fan will blow in reverse for a short
time to remove some of the debris
in the radiator.

- If additional material needs to be
removed, blow air through the fan and
through the radiator.

- If dirt is stuck in the fins or core of the
radiator, clean out with a low pressure
water hose.

Clear Debris from Fan

Page 3-12

216052

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

19. Check the oil level in the oil tank.

Maintaining a proper level of oil is very
important in the operation of the mower.

- When the oil is cold, check that the oil

level is showing in the middle of the
sight glass (1) which is on the side of
the oil tank.

Low Oil Level
Low oil level in the tank is caused by a
leakage of oil. Locate the leak at once. Loss
of oil can cause severe damage to the
hydraulic pump and motors.

- To fill the oil tank

- Clean the top of the tank to
prevent contamination of the oil.

- Remove the top breather cap (2)
and fill with hydraulic oil until the
oil level is showing in the middle of
the sight glass (1).

Check the Oil Level in the Tank

216053C

Note: Do not fill the tank to more than

the middle of the sight glass to
allow room for the oil to expand
as it heats up.

Note: It is important to only use clean

filtered oil when filling the oil.
Clean oil will assist the pump
and motors to work more
efficiently.

- Clean the breather cap (2) and
replace the cap on the tank.

Page 3-13

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

20. Ensure the shutoff valves (3) at the
bottom of the tank are in the open
position.

21. Check the oil filter operating pressure.

- When the oil is warm, with the pump
running, check the filter pressure
gauge (1).

Note: When the oil is cold, the gauge

may show that the filter needs
replacing. Allow the oil to warm
and check the filter gauge again.

- If the gauge is in the green zone, the
filter is okay.

- If the gauge is in the yellow zone, the
filter will need to be replaced soon.

- If the gauge is in the red zone, replace
the filter immediately.

Open Tank Shutoff Valves

Check Oil Filter Operating Pressure

214044C

216054C

Note: See Section 5 “Maintenance” for

information on “Replacing the
Filter”.

Page 3-14

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

22. Check the oil level in the pump

gearbox.

- Remove the breather vent (1) at the

top of the gearbox. The breather has
a dip stick attached to it.

- Check that the oil is at least to the

level of the line near the bottom of the
dip stick.

- If needed, add oil using 85W90 gear

oil.

- Replace the breather vent (1).

Check Oil Level in Pump Gearbox

214045C

Page 3-15

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

23. Check the condition of the chain
guards all around the machine.

The mower shall not be operated
without the chain guards in place
or in good condition.

- Replace worn, missing or broken
chain sections immediately.

24. Inspect the wheels and tires for
damage or foreign objects. Repair or
replace as necessary.

25. Inspect the wing skid plate for secure
mounting and wear.

The mower shall not be operated
without the skid plates in place.

- If the leading edge (1) of the wing skid
plate is worn excessively or is
damaged, it should be replaced.

Check Condition of the Chain Guards

Inspect Wing Skid Plates

214046

214047C

26. Inspect the center section skid plate
(behind the front chain guards) for
secure mounting and wear.

Inspect the Center Section Plates

Page 3-16

214048

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

27. If the wing skid plate wheel is
installed, check the condition of the
tire and that all fasteners are tight.

28. For 10 Foot Models, inspect the
center deck skid and counterweights
for secure mounting.

Inspect Wing Skid Plate Wheel

Inspect Center Skid & Counterweights (10 Foot)

214049

215073

Page 3-17

Section 3 - Mower Preparation

29. Ensure the driveline is securely
attached to the pump gearbox.

30. Ensure the driveline shields are
lowered into place and are in good
repair to prevent injuries.

The mower shall not be operated
without the driveline shields in
place.

31. Lubricate all grease fittings and check
the fluid level in the pump gearbox.
See the Maintenance Section.

32. Ensure all fasteners are tightened.

Driveline Fastened to Gearbox

214050

Page 3-18

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

4.0 OPERATING THE MOWER

Do not allow anyone to ride on the
mower.

- Falling from the machine can
cause injury

Do not operate mower blade pan on
the wings that are raised.

- Contact with exposed rotating
blades can cause serious injury or
death.

- Raised wings can throw objects
causing serious injury or death.

Hydraulic Oil Temperature

Cold Oil
When the oil temperature is low (ie. during
cool weather operation - below 32"F/0"C) it is
recommended to rotate the pump and motors
at a moderate speed (less than 1000 rpm) to
allow the oil to warm.

Cold oil may cause the filter to show that it
needs attention. When the oil warms, the oil
filter reading will return to normal.

Normal Oil Temperature
The typical temperature of the oil at the

motors is between 150 -160 "F (65 - 71 " C).
The fan at the radiator turns on at 150 "F (65

"

C).

Note: This is the factory setting but it
may be adjusted to another
temperature. See Section 7
“Troubleshooting” for more
information.

Note: An infrared heat sensor is a

valuable tool in knowing the
condition of the hydraulic system
and valuable for troubleshooting.

Page 4-1

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Overheated Oil
If the oil temperature is too hot, damage to
the pump and motors may occur. It is
important to keep the oil cooler radiator clean
for heat to be removed from the oil.

When the “Oil Temp Warning” light comes on
at the switch box in the cab, it indicates the
oil temperature has reached 185" F (85" C).

When 185" F (85" C) oil temperature has
been reached, the wing motors will also stop
turning to indicate the high temperature
condition.

- Stop the mower immediately.

- Clean the radiator.

- Ensure the cooling fan is working.
Check the fuse that is located in the
power supply cable running to the
control box.

- Check that the electrical supply cable
is connected to an outlet that is rated
for 30 amps or more. The power can
also be taken directly from the tractor
battery.

Also check the “Troubleshooting” Section of
for additional directions.

Oil Temperature Warning Lamp

214052

1. Park on level ground.

2. Move both wing transport lock pins (1) to
the storage position on the wing lock
bars.

Page 4-2

Move the Wing Transport Lock Pins

216049C

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

3. Remove the hitch cylinder transport locks

from the cylinders.

- Store the locks in the toolbox.

4. Lower the wings.

Ensure all bystanders are well
clear of the wing movement area.

- Ensure the tractor PTO drive is
disengaged.

5. Remove debris from the cutting area.

- Mark areas where objects could cause
damage to the mower blades or pans.

Remove Hitch Cylinder Transport Locks

214039

Page 4-3

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Controlling the Mower

The hydraulic pump on the hitch is driven by
the PTO driveline. The pump provides
hydraulic flow for the blade pan motors
mounted on the decks.

The flow for the hydraulic cylinders is
provided by the tractor hydraulics.

There are 2 types of controllers for the
mower:

- Control box requiring 3 tractor
hydraulic remotes.

- Control box with joystick requiring 1
tractor hydraulic remote.

Center Deck Blade Pan
When the hydraulic pump is being turned by
the PTO, the center deck blade pan will be
turning with both types of controllers.

Note: The wing deck blade pans will also

turn unless the RH Deck and LH
deck switches on the Control Box.
are in the “Off” position.

Control Box - 3 Remote Tractor

High Oil Temperature Warning
When the "Oil Temp Warning" light comes
on, it indicates the oil temperature has
reached the maximum temperature of 185" F
(85"C).

When 185" F (85"C) oil temperature has
been reached, the wing motors will also stop
turning to indicate the high temperature
condition.

Refer to “Responding to a High Oil
Temperature Warning” in this section.

Control Box for 3 Remote Tractor

42723_E

Also check the "Troubleshooting" Section
7 for additional directions regarding high
oil temperature.

Page 4-4

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Wing Lift
This switch setting activates the wing lift
circuit.

Wing Lift LH or RH
When the Wing Lift switch is activated, this
switch allows the choice of which wing is to
be lifted when the hydraulic control lever is
moved.

Wing Deck Blade Pan Switches
To have the wing deck blade pans turning,
move the switches up.

Note: The deck blade pans will be

activated when the light on the
switch is on. If the light is off, the
deck blade pan is turned off.

Control Box for 3 Remote Tractor

42723_E

- To turn off one of the deck blade pans

move the switch down. This will
activate a solenoid valve that will cut
off the oil flow to the motor. The light

on the switch will be off.
Gradient Control (Steering Option)
If the mower has the optional Gradient

Control installed, the switch will activate the
hydraulic control lever to move the front
wheels so the mower tries to climbs the ditch.
This reduces the side force loads on the
tractor and also helps the mower to track
straight which improves the cutting.

- Turn on the switch on the control box.

- Activate the hydraulic control lever to
move the hydraulic cylinder to direct
the front wheels.

- Disengage the hydraulic cylinder when
wanting to turn or maneuver the
mower. This will allow the wheels to
castor.

Page 4-5

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Control Box - Joystick Control (1 Remote)

High Oil Temperature Warning
When the "Oil Temp Warning" light comes

on, it indicates the oil temperature has
reached the maximum temperature of 185
F (85 C).

When this oil temperature has been reached,
the wing motors will also stop turning to
indicate the high temperature condition.

Refer to "Responding to a High Oil
Temperature Warning" in this section.

Also check the "Troubleshooting" Section
7 for additional directions regarding high
oil temperature.

"

Joystick Control Box

216010

Wing Deck Blade Pan Switches
To have the wing deck blade pans turning,
move the switches up (light on).

Note: The deck blade pans will be

activated when the light on the
switch is on. If the light is off, the
deck blade pan is turned off.

- To turn off one of the deck blade pans
move the switch down. This will
activate a solenoid valve that will cut
off the oil flow to the motor. The light
on the switch will be off.

Page 4-6

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Joystick Control

The joystick has multifunction ability. These
functions are shown on the decal.

Mowing Height Control
The joystick controls the height of the decks
from the ground which controls the mowing
height. Refer to the decal on the joystick for
the desired height movement.

Deck Swing
The joystick controls the swing of the mowing
decks. Refer to the decal on the joystick for
the desired deck swing movement.

Raise Left Wing or Right Wing
To raise a wing so that it is not mowing,

- Use the control box switch to

disengage the wing motor.

- Use the joystick with the trigger

depressed to activate the wing
cylinder to raise that wing.

Joystick Control

214053A

Lower Left Wing or Right Wing

- Use the joystick with the trigger

depressed to activate the wing
cylinder to raise that wing.

Gradient Control (Steering Option)
The steering option move the front wheels so
the mower tries to climbs the ditch. This
reduces the side force loads on the tractor
and also makes the mower to track straight
which improves the cutting.

- Depress the rocker switch on the

joystick to move the cylinder to direct
the front wheels.

- Disengage the hydraulic cylinder when

wanting to turn or maneuver the
mower. This will allow the wheels to
castor.

Page 4-7

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

6. Swing the mower deck to move the
mower into the cutting area.

Ensure all bystanders are well
clear of the mower and hitch. The
deck and hitch can move rapidly.

The deck and hitch can swing
rapidly from left to right causing
serious injury or death.

Do not swing the mower into
following or oncoming traffic.

- Drive ahead slowly while operating the

hydraulic lever to swing the deck. This
will move the mower into the cutting
area.

- If using the optional joystick, drive

ahead slowly while operating the
joystick to swing the deck. This will
move the mower into the cutting area.

Swing Deck Into Cutting Area

The mower can be operated anywhere in the range of:

50 F left of the center of the tractor 50F right of the center of the tractor

F

50

50

214111

F

Range of Mower Operation

107098

Page 4-8

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Recommended Setup to Obtain a Quality Mowing Cut

Level Ground Operation Slope Operation

107099

215074

1. Confirm that the blades rotate as indicated.

2. Adjust the wing heights for Level Ground
Operation (See Section 3).

107106

108225R

1. Confirm that the blades rotate as
indicated.

2. Adjust the wing heights for Slope
Operation. (See Section 3)

3. Set Gradient Control Option to full front
wheel movement.

3. Set Gradient Control Option to move the
front wheels to offset the effect of the
sloped ditch.

Page 4-9

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

7. Lower to the cutting height.
The mower shall not be operated

without the chain guards in place
or in good condition.

- Use the hydraulic lever (or joystick if
installed) to lower the deck to the
preferred cutting height.

- Operate at a sufficient height that
prevents the blades from striking the
ground or cutting the edge of the
ditch, which increases blade wear and
causes undue strain on the system.

- Install height stops around the height
cylinder rod to maintain the preferred
height.

Set the Cutting Height

214112

8. Adjust ground speed for the terrain, the
type, height and density of vegetation and
the cutting height.

The mower shall not be operated without
the side plate skid shoes in place.

- Recommended speed is between 2

and 5 mph (3 - 8 kmh)

- Decrease the ground speed as the

severity of the cutting condition's
increase and to permit grasses to
partially rebound from the tires.

- The mower can cut vegetation up to

3½" (89mm) in diameter for short
periods of time.

Note: If the mower is cutting too much

material, the hydraulic pressure
will exceed safe limits. At that point
a pressure relief valve will be
activated which will cause the
blade pan to stop turning.

Adjust Ground Speed

Once the pressure relief valve has been
activated (shown by blade pans not
turning), raise the mower decks to allow
the pressure relief valve to close and to
recover the blade pan RPM.

214113

Page 4-10

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

9. Move the wing blade pans switches up

(light on) on the control box to have the
wing blades operating.

10. Operate the PTO at the rated PTO

speed to engage the hydraulic pump
to turn the center and wing blade
pans.

Do not operate within 300 ft
(100m) of any person. Thrown
objects can cause serious injury
or death.

11. Allow the wings to float.

- Fully extend the wing lift cylinders.
This will allow the wings to follow the
contour of uneven ground.

Control Box (Joystick Option Shown)

216010

- If a wing seems to lower, re-phase the
wing height cylinders by fully raising
the mower. Hold the lever open for at
least 30 seconds or until the cylinders
are fully synchronized.

12. Avoid cutting into the ditch.

- On uneven areas, prevent the blades
from cutting into gravel or dirt by
positioning a support wheel near the
highest point.

Allow the Wings to Float

Page 4-11

Mower Deck On Uneven Area

214112

107075C

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

13. Swing the mower deck away from
obstructions.

- Swing the deck to move the mower
away from obstructions such as drive
approaches, culverts or large rocks.

- Swing the deck using the hydraulic
lever or the optional joystick control.

- If an object is hit, immediately stop
driving and disengage the PTO.

-Wait for all rotating parts to stop.

-Raise the mower and drive away
from the object.

-Check the mower for damage.

14. Check that the hydraulic oil cooling
fan is operating.

Swing Deck Away from Obstructions

214114

- Check that the electrical supply cable
is connected to an outlet that is rated
for 30 amps or more. The power can
also be taken directly from the tractor
battery.

- The factory setting is for the oil cooling
fan to come on when the hydraulic oil
reaches a temperature of 150" F
(65.5" C).

- Note: The temperature for the fan

to come on can be adjusted on the
fan controller module. See Section
7 “Troubleshooting” for more
information.

- A steady “on” status light on the fan
controller module means that the fan
is operating normally and will come on
as needed.

- A blinking status light on the fan
controller module indicates trouble
c o d e s . S e e S e c t i o n 7
"Troubleshooting" for information on
the trouble codes.

Page 4-12

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Responding to a High Oil Temperature
Warning

Note: The wing motors will stop rotating

when there is a high oil temperature
warning.

1. Stop the mower PTO immediately.
Damage can occur to the pump and
motors if operated at high oil temperature
conditions.

2. Check the cleanliness of the oil cooling
radiator. It is important to keep the oil
cooler radiator clean for heat to be
removed from the oil.

- Use a broom and a low pressure air

hose to remove the debris.

- If additional material needs to be

removed, blow air through the fan and
through the radiator.

- If dirt is stuck in the fins or core of the

radiator, clean out with a low pressure
water hose.

3. Ensure the cooling fan is working.

- Check the main fuse located in the

power cable going to the control box.

4. Check the fan control module status light.

- If the status light is steady but the fan
does not start, remove the
temperature sensor lead wire.

- If the fan starts, replace the

temperature sensor.

- If the status light is blinking, check
Section 7 “Troubleshooting Fan
Control Module” for the Trouble
Codes.

- If there is no status light on the
module, check for power coming to
the module by using a volt meter.

- If there is power coming to the module
but the status light is not working,
replace the module.

- The fan can be made to run

continuously by taking power
around the module directly to the
fan until the module can be
replaced.

- Check the electrical supply to the fan.
The cable should be connected to an
outlet that is rated for 30 amps or
more. The power can also be taken
directly from the tractor battery.

5. Ensure all electrical connections are tight
including the grounding straps.

6. Check the Section 7 "Troubleshooting" for
additional directions.

Page 4-13

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

15. Do not drive or swing the mower into
following or on-coming traffic.

16. Cross ditches and steep inclines at
about a 30° approach angle.

- Maintain sufficient height to prevent
blades from hitting the ground.

- Do not approach a ditch or steep
incline straight on as this may collapse
the driveline to its shortest length,
causing damage by pushing the PTO
into the tractor or into the drivebox on
the hitch arm or downward onto the
PTO shaft, breaking it off.

Cross Ditch at 30° Angle

Hitch Driveline Collapsed in Steep Incline

107072

107089C

Page 4-14

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

17. Making Turns

- Do not make turns sharper than 110°.

- The hitch will contact itself if turns

greater than 110° are attempted.

Turns Less Than 110

Turns Less Than 110

" 214065

" 214066

Page 4-15

Section 4 - Operating the Mower

Recommended Practices for a Quality Cut

1. Use the correct tractor PTO speed for the
mower.
" Check the PTO speed decal on the

hitch of the mower.

2. Cut in the primary cutting conditions that
the mower is configured for. (See above)
" The rotation of the blades and the

wing height adjustment will influence
the quality of cut in the cutting area.

3. Verify the blades are mounted for the
cutting conditions.
" Check the rotation decals on the top

of the center and wing decks.

" Mount the blade so that when the bent

end of the blade is up toward the
underside of the deck, the leading
edge of the blade turns into the
rotation as indicated on the decal.

6. Set the cutting height according to the
vegetation being cut.
" Lower the height for short, dry or

sparse vegetation, but avoid hitting
the ground.

" Raise the height in tall, lush or dense

vegetation. Reduce the travel speed
to allow the cutting chamber to handle
the high volume of material.

4. Check that the blades are in good
condition.
" Replace blade pair at maximum of 50

hours use.

" Worn, bent or gouged blades will

cause uneven cutting height.

" Replace with new Highline blades.

5. Reduce the travel speed.
" In tall, wet or dense vegetation,

reduce the travel speed to handle the
higher volume of material in the
cutting chamber.

" Slower travel speed will reduce “uncut

tracks.”

- The mower wheels may bend over
the stalks of the vegetation and
debris may be distributed on top of
the bent over stalks.

- Reduce travel speed to allow more
time for the stalks to lift and to
allow more blade passes over the
vegetation.

Page 4-16

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

5.0 MAINTAINING THE MOWER

Shut down the tractor and remove
the key before repairing, servicing,
lubricating or cleaning the mower.

Relieve all hydraulic pressure in
the hoses. Disconnect the
hydraulic hoses from the tractor
before going near the machine.

! Check the oil level in the pump gearbox.

- Remove the breather vent (1) at the
top of the pump gearbox. The
breather has a dip stick attached to it.

- Check that the oil is at least to the
level of the line near the bottom of the
dip stick.

- If needed, add oil using 85W90 gear
oil.

- Replace the breather vent (1).

- Annually change the oil in the pump
gearbox. (See Gearbox Oil Changing
Procedures)

Check Oil Level in Pump Gearbox

214045C

Page 5-1

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

! Check the oil level in the oil tank.

- When the oil is cold, check that the oil
level is showing in the middle of the
sight glass (1) on the side of the oil
tank.

- To fill the oil tank

- Clean the top of the tank to

prevent contamination of the oil.

- Remove the top breather cap (2)

and fill with hydraulic oil until the
oil level is showing in the middle of
the sight glass (1).

Note: Do not fill the tank to more than

the middle of the sight glass to
allow room for the oil to expand as
it heats up.

Check the Oil Level in the Tank

216053C

Note: Only use clean filtered oil when

filling. Clean oil will assist the
pump and motors to work more
efficiently.

- Clean the breather cap (2) and
replace on the tank.

Page 5-2

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

! Check the oil filter operating pressure.
Change the oil filter after the first 25 hours of

operation.
Replace the filter every 500 hours or when

the filter condition gauge shows it needs to
be changed.

Note: When the oil is cold, the gauge

may show that the filter needs
replacing. Allow the oil to warm
and check the filter gauge again.

- When the oil is warm, with the pump

running, check the filter pressure
gauge.

Check Oil Filter Operating Pressure

216054

- If the gauge is in the green zone, the

filter is okay.

- If the gauge is in the yellow zone, the

filter will need to be replaced soon.

- If the gauge is in the red zone, replace

the filter immediately.

Replacing the Filter

- Loosen the bolts (1) that hold the top

of the filter cap.

- The bolts only need to be
loosened enough to rotate the cap.

- Remove the filter cap.

- Remove the o-ring seal under the cap.
The o-ring seal will be re-used.

- Remove the used filter and discard.

Remove Cap to Replace the Filter

216011C

- Install a new 5 micron oil filter.

- Replace the o-ring seal, cap and
fasteners. Tighten in place.

Page 5-3

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

! Clear debris from the removable chaff

screen.

- Remove the screen to clean the both
sides of the screen.

- Use a broom, low pressure air and
water to clean the screen.

! With the chaff screen removed, clear

the debris from the oil cooling tank
and the radiator.

- Use a broom and a low pressure air
hose to remove the debris.

! Clear debris from the fan on the

backside of the oil tank.

Clear Debris from the Chaff Screen

Clear Debris from Radiator

216050

216051

- Remove additional material by
blowing low pressure air through the
fan and through the radiator.

- If dirt is packed in the fins and core of
the radiator, use a low pressure water
source to clean the core.

Page 5-4

Clear Debris from Fan

216052

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Lubrication

Lubricate all grease fittings with a quality
lithium soap compatible E.P. grease meeting
the N.L.G.I. #2 specifications and containing
no more than 1% molybdenum disulfide.

Every 10 Hours

! Lubricate 3 points on the hitch every 10

hours.

! PTO - Lubricate 5 points on the PTO

every 10 hours.

- 1 point at the constant velocity joint.
*Continued angled operation will
require lubrication every 4 hours.

- 1 point on each joint collar

- 1 point at the telescoping section

Note: If the grease point in the center

of the PTO (telescoping
section) is not accessible when
connected to the tractor,
disconnect from the tractor and
extend the PTO shaft to
access the grease point.

Every 50 Hours

! On the optional Steering Control, lubricate

2 points every 50 hours.

- on the left pivot pin

- on the right pivot pin

Grease Hitch Points

Grease Points on PTO

214050C

108116C

Page 5-5

Grease Steering Control Pivot Pins

215075C

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Every 100 Hours

! Grease the front wheel hubs.

! Grease the center rear hubs.

! Grease wing hubs on both wings.

Grease Front Wheel Hubs

Grease Center Rear Hubs

214055C

214057C

Page 5-6

Grease Wing Hubs

(Walking Axle Shown)

214058C

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Annually

! Grease the blade hub on the center deck

and both wing decks.

- The grease point (1) is accessed by
reaching between the blade pan and
the deck.

Note: It is not necessary to remove

the blade pan to grease the
hubs.

- There is a grease fitting on the hub
body.

- Fill with grease until grease comes out
the fitting which is on the hub on the
top side of the deck.

Grease Blade Hub

(Pan Shown Removed for Clarity)

214059C

Alternate Method:

- Remove the four bolts (2) holding the
motor.

- Lift the motor.

- Check that the grease is at the level of
the breather.

- If grease is needed, add a semi-fluid
NLGI #00 EP lithium grease to the
level of the breather.

Hub on Deck

214060C

Page 5-7

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Oil Tank Oil Changing Procedures

The hydraulic oil should be changed every
1500 hours (Change oil earlier if there is a
contamination in the hydraulic oil system).

- If a motor or pump fails, drain all the
hydraulic oil to prevent further
component damage due to
contamination. Replace the filter and
fill the system with new hydraulic oil.

To Empty the Tank:

- Close both valves (3) at the bottom of
the oil tank.

- Remove a hose from the one of the
valves.

- Place a container to collect the oil that
will come out of the opened valve.

- Open the valve to allow the oil to drain
from the system.

- To remove the small amount of oil
remaining in the tank, remove the
drain plug from the bottom of the tank.

To Fill the Tank:

- Replace the drain plug into the bottom
of the tank.

- Close the valve (3) at the bottom of
the oil tank.

- Reconnect the hose to the valve.

- Clean the top of the oil tank to prevent
oil contamination.

- Remove the filler cap (1).

Valves at the Bottom of the Oil Tank

Remove Filler Cap to Fill Tank

214044C

216012C

- Fill with 50 gallons (190 liters) of
Hydrex MV36 or equivalent hydraulic
oil.

- Check the oil level in the sight glass
on the side of the tank.

- Replace the filler cap (1).

Page 5-8

Check Oil Level After Filling

216055

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Gearbox Oil Changing Procedures

To Drain the Pump Gearbox;

- Remove the breather/dipstick (1) from

the top of the gearbox.

- Place a container at the bottom of the

gearbox to catch the drained oil.

- Remove the gearbox bottom plug (2)

to drain the oil.

To Fill The Gearbox:

- Replace the bottom plug (2) in

gearbox.

- Fill with 85W90 gearbox oil into the

breather hole at the top of the
gearbox.

Remove Breather From Gearbox

Remove Drain Plug

214045

214117C

- Fill until the oil level is at the bottom

line of the dipstick.

Page 5-9

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Blade Replacement Procedure

Before beginning, make sure the
tractor is off and the PTO is
disengaged. Disconnect the
driveline from the tractor before
doing any work. Disconnect all
hydraulic hoses from the tractor.

Securely block-up the mower
before any work is done under the
mower when lifted up. This is to
prevent the mower from dropping
due to inadvertent operation of
controls, hydraulic leaking or
failure of any components.

1. Remove the old blades.

- For each blade, line up the nut holding
the blade with the socket hole (1) in
the top of the mower deck.

- From the top of the deck, remove the
blade bolt nut (2) and discard it. (This
nut cannot be reused)

- The bolt is lobed to prevent it from

turning.

- Drive out the bolt and the blade will
drop.

- The blade bolt may be reused if it is
not damaged.

Note: The blades can be replaced without

having to remove the blade pan.

Blade Nut Access Hole - Center Section

214062C

Blade Nut

(For Clarity Pan Shown Removed)

107059C

Page 5-10

Blade Nut Access Hole - Wing Section

214061C

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

2. Install the new blades.

- For each blade, place the blade onto

the shoulder of the bolt.

- The old bolt can be used again if it
is not damaged.

- Ensure the blade is installed with
cutting edge leading (1) into the
rotation indicated by the decal on
the section of the mower deck.

- Align the bolt (1) into the slotted hole
(2) in the pan.

- Slide the bolt into the blade pan.

- Use a new nylon locking nut.

- Do not reuse the old nut. The

locking nylon nut cannot be
reused.

- Finger tighten the nut.

- Tap the head of the bolt to seat the
bolt into the pan.

- Tighten the nut with a socket from the
top of the deck.

- Tap the head of the bolt again.

- Tighten the nut to 600 lbf (813 Nm).

Blade Mounting Orientation

Blade Bolt and Fitted Hole

201104C

107107C

Page 5-11

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Removing and Replacing the Blade Pan

Before beginning, make sure the
tractor is off and the PTO is
disengaged. Disconnect the
driveline from the tractor before
doing any work.

Securely block-up the mower
before any work is done under the
mower when lifted up. This is to
prevent the mower from dropping
due to inadvertent operation of
controls, hydraulic leaking or
failure of any components.

1. Removing the blade pan with hub.

- Remove the three roll pins (1) that
are securing the pan nut.

- Secure the driveline from turning.

- Use a 3/4" impact drive to remove the
pan nut (2).

- Insert a bar through the deck hole (1)
and drift the bar to impact the pan.

- If pan does not drop, rotate the

pan 180" and drift again to remove
the pan from the tapered
driveshaft.

- The pan hub is keyed to the drive

shaft with 1 key. The key can be
re-used if it is in good condition.

Remove Roll Pins From Blade Pan Nut

Center Deck Hole

107060C

214062C

Blade Pan Removed

107120

Page 5-12

Wing Deck Hole

214061C

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

2. Installing the blade pan with hub.

- Inspect the drive shaft and keyway to

ensure they are in good condition.

- Check the oil seal to ensure that it is

not leaking.

- Ensure that the spindle nuts are tight.

- Inspect the pan hub.

- The hub is fastened to the pan
with 6 bolts. (1) Ensure all are
tight to 120 lbf (163 Nm)

- Check the condition of the keyway
(2).

Shaft & Keyway

Blade Pan Hub

214133

214134C

Page 5-13

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

- Inspect the blade/pan area of the
deck.

- Check the condition of the

underside of the deck and the ring
around the hub area.

- Place the key in keyway of the drive
shaft.

- Tape the key in place to

temporarily hold it while the
hub/pan is being mounted.

Blade Pan Area

Key Taped Onto Shaft

201098

214132

Page 5-14

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

- Slide the hub onto the shaft.

- Align the key into the hub keyway.

- Install the hub nut (1) and tighten

using a 3/4" drive impact wrench.

- Drive the hub onto the taper between

the driveshaft and the hub.

- Use a soft blow hammer to hit the
pan in the order and locations
shown in the figure.

- Tighten the hub nut using the 3/4"
drive impact wrench.

- Re-drive the hub onto the taper using
a soft blow hammer to hit the pan in
the order and locations shown in the
figure.

- Re-tighten the hub nut using the 3/4"
drive impact wrench.

Pan Mounted on Driveshaft

Drive Hub Onto Taper of Driveshaft

107066C

107067C

Page 5-15

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

- Using a punch and hammer, tighten
the hub nut until the first available roll
pin hole in the hub becomes visible.

- Install and set 3 roll pins (1) into the
nut and hub.

Roll Pins Installed in Nut/Hub

107068C

Page 5-16

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Front Tires ­Note: It is recommended to have the tires

mounted by a tire technician.

- Check the condition of the front tires.

- The tires are tubeless with a
sealant.

- Mount the tires so that the air valve
will be toward the wheel hub when
mounted on the mower.

- Place the flat side of the lug nut
against the wheel rim. Torque to 75 lbf
(101 Nm).

- Tire Pressure - Fill the tires to 44 psi
(303 Kpa).

- Transport speed should not exceed
20 mph (32 kmh).

- When replacing the tires, refer to the
Specification Section for the size and
type of tires.

Front Tires

Front Tire Mounting

214072

107094C

Page 5-17

Rear Tires

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

There are 2 rear tire mounting configurations
that can be used on the mower. See the
Table for Tire Mounting Configurations:

Note: The center deck tires must all be

the same type.

Note: Do not use automotive tires and

rims.

Note: It is recommended to have the

tires mounted by a trained tire
technician.

Rear Laminated Tires

Note: It is recommended to have the

tires mounted by a tire technician.

- Mount the wheels so that the
curvature of the laminated sections lay
with the ground when mounted on the
wheel hub. (See figure)

- Place the flat side of the lug nut
against the wheel rim. Torque to 75 lbf
(101 Nm).

Center Rear

Wing Section

Section
Aircraft

(Foam Filled)

Laminated

Laminated Laminated

Tire Mounting Configurations

Laminated Tire Mounting

107074C

- Do not transport the mower on
roadways for long distances with
laminated tires.

- Transport speed for laminated tires
should not exceed 15 mph (24 kmh).
Excessive speed can cause damage
to the machine and tire sections.

- Do not attempt to repair the tires. If
they are damaged, discard them and
mount new tire assemblies.

- When replacing the tires, refer to the
Specification Section for the size and
type of tire.

Page 5-18

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

Center Rear Aircraft Tires

(Foam Filled)

Note: It is recommended to have the

tires mounted by a tire technician.

- Mount the tires so that the air valve

will be toward the wheel hub when
mounted on the mower.

- Place the flat side of the lug nut

against the wheel rim. Torque to 75 lbf
(101 Nm).

- Transport speed for aircraft tires

should not exceed 20 mph (32 kmh).

- When replacing the tires, refer to the

Specification Section for the size and
type of tires.

Aircraft Tire Mounting

107094C

Page 5-19

Section 5 - Maintaining the Mower

This Page Left Blank

Page 5-20

Section 6 - Storing the Mower

6.0 STORING THE MOWER

1. Clean all the debris off the mower decks.

2. Lubricate all mower grease points (See
Section 5).

3. Tighten all bolts to the recommended
torque.

4. Check the mower for worn and damaged
parts. Replace as needed.

5. Touch-up the paint to prevent rusting.

6. Park the mower on level ground.

Clean Debris off the Mower

201077

7. Lower the mower until the hydraulic
height control cylinder is resting on the
transport lock (1).

Park on Level Ground

Height Cylinder Resting on Lock

214107

216048C

Page 6-1

Section 6 - Storing the Mower

8. Place the wing transport lock pins in place
to lock the wings.

- Raise the wings until they rest in

place.

- Install the wing lock pins (1) in both

wings. Clip in place.

9. Remove the jack from the storage
position and place it onto the hitch (1).

- Pin the jack in place.

- Raise the hitch until the weight is

supported by the jack.

- Ensure that the jack is resting on solid

level ground or resting on a wood
block.

Install the Wing Transport Pins

Raise Hitch with the Jack

216047C

214033C

Page 6-2

Section 6 - Storing the Mower

10. Remove the driveline from the tractor

PTO shaft.

11. Disconnect the safety chain from the

tractor.

12. Disconnect the hitch from the tractor.

- Remove the hitch pin.

- Remove the hitch bolts, lock nuts and
washers from the drawbar.

13. Relieve the pressure on the hydraulic
hoses and disconnect them.

Remove Driveline and Safety Chain

108006

14. Disconnect the electrical connection.

Disconnect Hydraulic Hoses & Electrical

107023

Page 6-3

Section 6 - Storing the Mower

15. Secure the hydraulic hoses and
electrical connector to the hose holder
on the hitch to keep them off the
ground and clean.

16. Place the PTO driveline in the support
bracket.

17. Change the oil in the gear box. See
the Maintenance Section for
procedures.

Hydraulic Hoses

Driveline in Support Bracket

214034

214050

Page 6-4

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

7.0 TROUBLESHOOTING

Shut down the tractor and
remove the key before repairing,
servicing, lubricating or cleaning
the mower.

Relieve all hydraulic pressure in
the hoses. Disconnect the
hydraulic hoses from the tractor
before going near the machine.

Operation

Symptom Problem Solution

Uneven Cut Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed

Mower not operated at rated

Use full PTO speed

rpm
Blades worn, dull or bent Replace blades in pairs

(refer to section 5). Replace
with Highline parts

Incorrect blade for rotation Use correct blade for

rotation. Refer to decal on
mower deck for rotation

Blades locked in a fixed
position

Clean around blade. Check
for free movement of blade

Damaged blade pan Repair or replace as

necessary. Replace with
Highline parts

Mower not level Adjust center section and

wings (refer to section 3)
Improper height adjustment Adjust mower height
Tractor tires push grass

down

Reduce ground speed to

allow grass to recover but

keep PTO at full rpm

Conditions too wet Wait for drier conditions

Page 7-1

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Symptom Problem Solution

Uncut Material Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed

Rpm to low Use full PTO speed
Drive not functioning (blades

do not turn when PTO is

Check drive shaft
connection to pump gearbox

running)
Improper blade for direction

of cut

Mower not setup for the
primary cutting conditions

Worn or broken blades Replace blades with

Highline parts

Pressure relief valve Heavy material may cause

high oil pressure causing
the pressure relief valve to
open. This will result in the
blade pan to stop turning.
Drive slower or raise deck to
reduce pressure

Check if pressure relief
valve is stuck open.

Poor Shredding of Material Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed to

circulate material longer
Cutting to high Lower cutting height
Build up of material under

Clean underside of mower
the mower deck

Material heavy and lush Decrease ground speed

Mower Vibration One blade missing Replace blades in pairs.

Use Highline parts
Loose blades Tighten blade bolt nuts.

Check condition of the blade

bolts. Replace with Highline

parts
Old and new blade on the

same blade pan

Replace blades in pairs.

Use Highline parts

Page 7-2

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Symptom Problem Solution

One broken blade Replace blades in pairs.

Use Highline parts

Uneven wear on one blade
causing unequal weight on

Replace blades in pairs.
Use Highline parts

blade pan
Blades not swinging Free blades so they swing

on the blade bolt

Blade pan bent or damaged Replace as necessary. Use

Highline parts
Loose blade pan Tighten blade pan bolts
Mower not being operated

at rated rpm
Broken or defective u–joint

Set tractor throttle for proper

PTO speed during operation

Replace as necessary
cross bearing

Bent or damaged PTO shaft Repair or replace as

necessary
Bent or damaged output

shaft.

Replace shaft and seal as

necessary. Use Highline

parts
Bearing failure. Check blade

pan hub for side play

Replace bearing and seal as

necessary. Use Highline

parts
Spindle bolts loose Tighten

Center Section

Symptom Problem Solution

Center Blades Not Turning Low oil in tank Fill oil tank

Oil tank valves closed Open both tank valves
Suction line to pump

restricted or crimped
Pressure relief valve Pressure relief valve is stuck

Remove obstruction or

replace suction line

open or has changed to a

lower pressure. Replace

valve

Page 7-3

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Symptom Problem Solution

Pump A section of the pump is not

operating to capacity. Load
check the pump. Have
pump maintained by
qualified technician or
replace

Motor Blade pan motor is not

operating at capacity. Have
pump maintained by
qualified technician or
replace

Spindle Noisy Worn or damaged bearings Replace bearings

Spindle overheating Low on lubricant Fill to level plug

Improper type lubricant Replace lubricant. See

section 5 “Maintenance” for
type of lubricant

Trash build-up around

Remove trash

spindle

Spindle Leaking Worn seal Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Damaged oil seal Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Oil seal not sealing in
housing

Replace seal. Use Highline

parts
Oil seal installed incorrectly Replace seal
Shaft surface is rough Replace shaft. Use Highline

parts

Bent shaft Replace shaft and oil seal.

Use Highline parts
Bolts loose Tighten bolts
Motor seal leaking Replace seal

Page 7-4

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Wings

Symptom Problem Solution

Wings Do Not Lower or
Raise

Transport pins installed Remove pin and place in

carrier position

Hydraulic hoses or cylinders
leaking

Check for leaks and repair.
Use Highline parts

Wing Blades Not Turning Motor switch turned off Turn wing motor switch on

at the switch box in the cab
Low oil in tank Fill oil tank
Wing solenoid valve Check that wing solenoid

valve is closing.

The solenoid valve can be

manual operated by

pushing/pulling the external

plunger rod
High Oil Temperature The temperature switch

located on the oil filter

housing will turn off the wing

motors when the oil

temperature rises to 185"F.

See Section 4 "Responding

to a High Oil Temperature

Warning"

Electrical Fuse Check the 40 amp fuse

located in the power cable

going to the switch box
Pressure relief valve Pressure relief valve is stuck

open or has changed to a

lower pressure. Replace

valve
Suction line to pump

restricted or crimped

Page 7-5

Remove obstruction or

replace suction line

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Symptom Problem Solution

Pump A section of the pump is not

operating to capacity. Load
check the pump. Have
pump maintained by
qualified technician or
replace

Motor Motor is not operating at

capacity. Have
pump maintained by
qualified technician or
replace

Spindle Overheating Low on lubricant Fill to level plug

Improper type lubricant Replace lubricant. See

section 5 “Maintenance” for
type of lubricant

Trash build-up around

Remove build-up

spindle

Spindle Noisy Worn or damaged bearings Replace bearings

Spindle Leaking Worn seal Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Damaged oil seal Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Oil seal not sealing in
housing

Replace seal. Use Highline

parts
Oil seal installed incorrectly Replace seal
Shaft surface is rough Replace shaft. Use Highline

parts
Bent shaft Replace shaft and oil seal.

Use Highline parts

Bolts loose Tighten bolts
Motor seal leaking Replace seal

Page 7-6

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Wheels

Symptom Problem Solution

Laminated Tires Burn Up Traveling too fast Slow down. Do not exceed

15 mph (24 kmh)

Improper mounting of tire Mount tire so that the

curvature of the laminated
sections lay with the ground

Lug nuts incorrectly installed Place flat side of lug nut

against wheel

Tires Leak Air Foreign object in tire Replace tire

Front Wheels Dig Into
Cutting Area

Air valve to outside of rim
causing mud to pack and rip
off valve

Ground is too soft and wet Back up to free the wheels

Mount tire with air valve to
inside of rim

Stay out of very soft and wet
conditions

Hitch

Symptom Problem Solution

Hitch Does Not Move Transport locks installed Remove and place locks in

carrier positions

Hydraulic hoses or cylinders
leaking

Check for leaks and repair.
Use Highline parts

Page 7-7

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Blades

Symptom Problem Solution

Excessive Wear Blade contacting ground Increase cutting height

Cutting too low in abrasive
(sandy or rocky) conditions

Non-Highline blades Replace blades. Use

Mower not being operated
at rated rpm

Blade Breakage Cutting too low in rocky

conditions
Cutting with damaged or

extremely worn blades

Blade Bolt Loosening Inadequate torque on blade

bolts nuts

Blade bolt locknut worn Do not re-use locknut.

Increase cutting height

Highline parts

Set tractor throttle to proper

PTO speed

Increase cutting height

Replace blades. Use

Highline parts

Tighten blade bolts nut.

(Refer to "Maintenance"

section)

Replace lock nut. Use

Highline parts

Page 7-8

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Mower Oil

Symptom Problem Solution

Overheating Refer to “"Responding to a High Oil Temperature Warning"

in Section 4.
Low oil level Add oil to tank. Check sight

glass for level

Cooling fan not operating Check “Trouble Codes” on

the fan control module.
Repair.

Connect the electrical power
to an outlet that is rated for
30 amps or more to ensure
sufficient power for the
cooling fan. The power can
also be taken directly from
the tractor battery.

Check the 40 amp fuse
located in the power cable
going to the switch box

Radiator plugged Blow out debris with air.

Wash out dirt with low
pressure water

Blade pan motor running hot Check the motors with an

infrared heat sensor. The
motor that reads as hotter
than the others needs
attention by a qualified
technician. Replace motor

Excessive ground speed in

Reduce ground speed

heavy conditions
Excessive hitting of ground

Increase cutting height

with blades
Excessive amount of oil

leaking past gears

Worn pump or motor. Have
pump or motor maintained
by qualified technician or
replace

Page 7-9

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Cooling Fan

Symptom Problem Solution

Fan Not Operating Check power Check voltage and

connections to fan motor

Check the 40 amp fuse

located in the power cable

going to the switch box

Connect the electrical power

to an outlet that is rated for

30 amps or more to ensure

sufficient power for the

cooling fan. The power can

also be taken directly from

the tractor battery.
Fan motor Connect power directly to

fan to confirm the fan is

good
Fan Control Module If there is voltage to the

module but no light on the

module, replace the module
Module trouble codes Refer to the Fan Control

Module information for the

Status Light Trouble Codes

table. Fix problem
Temperature sensor Disconnect the temperature

sensor wire from the

module. Fan should start

running if temperature

sensor is faulty. Replace

sensor
Fan “On” temperature

setting

Refer to the Fan Control

Module information to adjust

the temperature at which the

fan turns on

Refer to "Responding to a High Oil Temperature Warning"
in Section 4.

Page 7-10

Fan Control Module

Status Light - Trouble Codes

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

42722_B

Solid Light Normal Operation

1 blink Open or disconnected fan motor
2 blink Shorted or over current fan motor
3 blink Temp sensor open or out of range
4 blink Over temp alarm - above 185"F (85"C)

Page 7-11

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Hydraulic Manifold - Joystick Option

Symptom Problem Solution

Solenoid valve Electrical fault Check cable and connector

Measure voltage at the

connector
Not responding to joystick Manually push/pull the rod

of the valve. Avoid being

harmed by sudden

movements of the mower.

Replace valve

Refer to manifold layout

Joystick Hydraulic Manifold Layout

Joystick Manifold Layout

214135C

Page 7-12

Tractor Hydraulic Oil

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Hydraulic Oil Overheating Incorrect optional valve type

(Open center vs closed
center)

Install correct valve type

Pump Gear Box

Symptom Problem Solution

Gearbox Overheating Low on lubricant Fill to the level plug

Improper lubricant Replace with proper

lubricant

Trash build-up around the
gearbox

Gearbox Noisy Low oil in gearbox Fill gearbox with proper

Remove trash

grade of oil

Gearbox Output
Shaft Seal Oil Leak

Rough gears Change gears. Use

Highline parts

Worn bearing Replace bearing. Use

Highline parts

Worn seal Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Oil seal incorrectly installed Replace seal. Use Highline

parts

Oil seal not sealing in
housing

Shaft surface is rough Replace shaft. Use Highline

Gear case overfilled Drain oil to proper level
Gear case not vented Check that the vent is clear

Replace seal

parts

Page 7-13

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Symptom Problem Solution

Driveline bottoms out when

Avoid these conditions
operating through deep
ditches

Bent or damaged output
shaft and/or bearings

Replace shaft and oil seal

and bearings. Use Highline

parts

Driveline

Symptom Problem Solution

Telescoping Tube Fails Shock load Avoid solid objects

Collapsed beyond allowed
angle

Insufficient Greasing If the grease point in the

Avoid such conditions

Set the drawbar to the

proper length

Replace driveline

telescoping section is not

accessible when connected

to the tractor, disconnect

from the tractor and extend

the PTO shaft to access the

grease point

Yoke or cross fails Lack of lubrication Apply grease

PTO Driveline Bent Contact with the drawbar Reposition drawbar. Refer

Shock load Avoid solid objects

to “transporting the mower”

section
Driveline too long, bottoms

Avoid these conditions
out when operating through
deep ditches

Page 7-14

Section 8 - Specifications

8.0 ROTARY MOWER SPECIFICATIONS

15 Foot 10 Foot

Cutting swath 180" (4572 mm) 120" (3048 mm)
Overall width 196" (4978 mm) 150" (3810 mm)

Overall length 402" (10210 mm) 402" (10210 mm)
Transport width 120" (3048 mm) 112" (2845 mm)
Front to back contour length 153" (3886 mm) 153" (3886 mm)

Weight 8600 lbs (3901 kg) 7600 lbs (3447 kg)
Tongue weight 650 lbs (295 kg) 650 lbs (295 kg)

Cutting height 2" to 15" (51 mm to 381 mm)
Cutting capacity (diameter) 3.5" (89 mm)
Blade size 1/2 " x 4" (13 mm x 102 mm)
Blade tip speed 1000rpm 16568 fpm (5050 mpm)

Input drive Cat.4/ 1000 rpm
Wing working range Down 25 degrees;

Up - 55 degrees
Oil Tank Capacity 42 Imp gallons (190 Liters) (50 US Gallons)
Hydraulic Fluid Hydrex MV 36
Operating Temperature Range (when warn) 129" - 185"F (54" - 85"C)

Rear Tires Laminate 6 x 9 x 20

(152 x 229 x 508)

Aircraft 22 x 6.6 x 22 ply (559 x 167 x 22 ply) (Air

Filled or Foam Filled)
Front Tires (RCH) 32 x 11.5 x 15 - 22 ply

Recommended tractor Hp 115 PTO (85.7 kw)

Page 8-1

Section 8 - Specifications

This Page Left Blank

Page 8-2

Highline RCH Hydro Mower Equipment Limited Warranty Policy

Highline Manufacturing Limited (hereinafter "Highline") warrants this new Mower product of Highline's manufacturer to be
free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal use and service, under the following uses and shall apply
only to complete machines of Highline's manufacture:

First (1) Year - Parts and Labour
During the First Year of the Limited Warranty period, any defect in material or workmanship in any warranted item of
Highline RCH Hydro Mower, not excluded below, shall be repaired or replaced at Highline's option without charge in the
first year from the date of initial purchase. These repairs shall be by a Dealer that Highline has authorized to perform
service on the Highline Mower Product Line. The repairs shall be made during normal working hours. Highline reserves the
right to inspect any equipment or parts which are claimed to have been defective in material or workmanship.

Second (2) Year - 100% off of the Current Listed Retail Price of Defective Pump, Motor, Speed Increaser Gearbox,
Spindle and Adaptor Parts
During the Second Year of the Limited Warranty period, this warranty is limited to the provision of 100% off of the current
listed retail price of parts for the Pump, Motor, Speed Increaser Gearbox, Spindle and Adaptor found to be defective in
material or workmanship but not the labour for installation of those parts. Highline reserves the right to inspect any
equipment or parts which are claimed to have been defective in material or workmanship.

Third (3) Year - 50% off of the Current Listed Retail Price of Defective Pump, Motor, Speed Increaser Gearbox, Spindle
and Adaptor Parts
During the third year from the date of purchase, this warranty is limited to the provision of 50% off of the current listed retail
price of Defective Pump, Motor, Speed Increaser Gearbox, Spindle and Adaptor Parts found to be defective in material or
workmanship but not the labour for installation of those parts. Highline reserves the right to inspect any equipment or parts
which are claimed to have been defective in material or workmanship.

Equipment and accessories not of Highline's manufacture (with the exception of Pump, Motor, Speed Increaser Gearbox,
Spindle and Adaptor Parts) are warranted only to the extent of the original manufacturer's warranty and subject to their
allowance to Highline only if found defective by such manufacturer.

Labour will be in accordance with Highline's labour reimbursement policy.
This Warranty is conditional upon completing the Highline Warranty Claim form and submitting it to Highline within 30 days

of the repair.

Retail Purchaser Responsibility:

This Limited Warranty requires proper maintenance and periodic inspections of the Mower as indicated in the Operator's
Manual furnished with each new Mower. The cost of routine or required maintenance and services is the responsibility of
the retail purchaser. The retail purchaser is required to keep documented evidence that these services were performed.
This Highline RCH Hydro Mower Equipment Limited Warranty Policy may be subject to cancellation if the above
requirements are not performed.

Disclaimer of Implied Warranties & Consequential Damages

This warranty shall not be interpreted to render Highline Manufacturing Ltd. liable for injury, death, property damage or
damages of any kind, whether direct, consequential or contingent to property. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, Highline shall not be liable for damages resulting from any cause beyond its reasonable control, including,
without limitation, loss of income, out of service time, any expense or loss of labour, supplies or damage to equipment
which this equipment may be attached.

No other warranty of any kind whatsoever, express or implied is made with respect to this sale, and all implied warranties
of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose which exceed the obligations set forth in this written warranty are
hereby disclaimed and excluded from this sale.

Rev 1