Woods Equipment RDC54, RD72, RD60 User Manual
HERITAGE
REAR DISCHARGE
MOWER
RDC54
RD60
RD72
MAN0260
Rev. 1/12/2007
Tested. Proven. Unbeatable.
TO THE DEALER:
CAUTION
IMPORTANT
WARNING
DANGER
NOTE
®
Assembly and proper ins tallation of this product is the r esponsibility of the Woods
and safety rules. Make su re all item s on the Dealer ’s Pr e-Delivery and Delivery Check L ists in the O perator ’s Ma nual
are completed before releasing equipment to the owner.
The dealer must complete the Produc t Registrati on included with the Oper ator ’s Manual. The cust omer must si gn the
registration which cer tifies that all Dealer Check List items have been completed. The de aler is to return the prepaid
postage portion to Woods, give one co py to th e custo mer, and retain one co py. Failure to complete and return this
card does not diminish customer’s warranty rights.
TO THE OWNER:
Read this manual before operating your W oods equipm ent. The informa tion presented will prepare you to do a better and
safer job. Keep this manual handy for ready reference. Require all operators to read this manual carefully and become
acquainted with all adjustment and operating procedures before attempting to operate. Replacement manuals can be
obtained from your dealer. To locate your nearest dealer, check the Dealer Locator at www.WoodsEquipment.com, or in
the United States and Canada call 1-800-319-6637.
The equipment you have purchased has been carefully engineered and manufactured to provide dependable and
satisfactory use. Like all mechanical products, it will require cleaning and upkeep. Lubricate the unit as specified.
Observe all safety information in this manual and safety decals on the equipment.
For service, your author ized Woods dealer has trained me chanics, genuine Woods serv ice parts, and the necessary
tools and equipment to handle all your needs.
Use only genuine Woods service parts. Substitute parts will void the warranty and may not meet standards required for
safe and satisfactory operation. Record the model number and serial number of your equipment in the spaces
provided:
dealer. Read manual instructions
Model:_______________________________ Date of Purchase: _____________________
Serial Number: (see Safety Decal section for location) ____________________________________
Provide this information to your dealer to obtain correct repair parts.
Throughout this manual, the term IMPORTANT is used to indicate that failure to observe can cause damage to
equipment. The ter ms CAUTION, WARNING, and DANGER are used in co njunction with the Sa fety-Alert Symbol (a
triangle with an exclamation mark) to indicate the degree of hazard for items of personal safety.
This Safety-Alert Symbol indicates a hazard and means ATTENTION!
BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
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.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.
Indicates that failure to observe can cause damage to equipment.
IMPORTANT
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
NOTE
2 Introduction
Indicates helpful information.
Gen’l (Rev. 6/6/2005)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
SAFETY RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
SAFETY DECALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
OWNER SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
DEALER SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
DEALER CHECK LISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
PARTS LISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
BOLT TORQUE CHART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
BOLT SIZE CHART & ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
REPLACEMENT PARTS WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
PRODUCT WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INSIDE BACK COVER
!
LEA EL INSTRUCTIVO!
Si no lee Ingles, pida ayuda a
alguien que si lo lea para que le
traduzca las medidas de seguridad.
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Introduction 3
SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL RDC54 RD60 RD72
3-Point Hitch Limited Cat. 1 Cat. 1 Cat. 1
Cutting Width 54" 60" 72"
Cutting Height Range 1" - 4-1/2" 1" - 4-1/2" 1" - 4-1/2"
Operating Weight with
Chain Shielding 417 lbs. 521 lbs. 624 lbs.
Blade Speed (feet per minute) 16,200 18,000 18,100
Blade Spindles 3 3 3
Number of Blades 3 3 3
Universal Drive Series ASAE Cat. 3 ASAE Cat. 3 ASAE Cat. 3
Caster Wheels 3.5 x 4 x 10 3.5 x 4 x 10 3.5 x 4 x 10
Tractor PTO Speed RPM 540 540 540
Recommended Maximum
Tractor Horsepower 15-25 25-35 25-35
Mower Frame Thickness 10 GA 8 GA 8 GA
GENERAL INFORMATION
The purpose of this manual is to assist you in operating
and maintaining your mower. Read it carefully. It furnishes information and instructions that will help you
achieve years of dependable performance. These
instructions have been compiled from extensive field
experience and engineering data. Some information
may be general in nature , due to u nknown and v aryin g
operating conditions. However, through experience
and these instruction s, you should be able to deve lop
procedures suitable to your particular situation.
WARNING
■ Some illustrations in this manual show the
mower with safety shields removed to provide a
better view. The mower should never be operated
with any safety shielding removed.
The illustrations and data used in this manual were current at the time of printing. However, due to possible
inline production changes, your machine may vary
slightly in detail. We reserve the right to redesign and
change the machines as may be necessary without
notification.
Throughout this m anual, references are made to right
and left directions. Th ese are determined by standing
behind the tractor facing the direction of forward travel.
4 Introduction
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
SAFETY RULES
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Safety is a primary concern in the design and
manufacture of our products. Unfortunately, our
efforts to provide safe equipment can be wiped
out by an operator’s single careless act.
In addition to the design and configuration of
equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness, concern,
judgement, and proper training of personnel
involved in t he operation, transport, maintenanc e
and storage of equipment.
It has been said “The best safety device is an
informed, careful operator.” We ask you to be that
kind of operator.
TRAINING
Safety instructions are important! Read all
attachment and power unit manuals; follow all
safety rules and safety decal information. (Replacement manuals and safe ty decals are a vailabl e from
your dealer. To locate your nearest dealer, check
the Dealer Locator at www.WoodsEquipment.com,
or in the United States and Canada call 1-800-319-
6637.) Failure to follow inst ructions or safe ty rules
can result in serious injury or death.
Know your controls and how to stop engine and
attachment quickly in an emergency.
If you do not understand any part of this manual
and need assistance, see your dealer.
Operators must be instructed in and be capable
of the safe operation of the equipment, its attachments, and all controls. Do not allow anyone to
operate this equipment without proper instructions.
Never allow children or untrained persons to
operate equipment.
PREPARATION
Check that all hardware is properly installed.
Always tighten to torque chart specification s
unless instructed otherwise in this manual.
Always wear relatively tight and belted clothing
to avoid entanglement in moving parts. Wear
sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and protective
equipment for eyes, hair, hands, hearing, and head;
and respirator or filter mask where appropriate.
Make sure attachment is properly secured,
adjusted, and in good operating condition.
Make sure spring-activat ed locking p in or collar
slides freely and is seated f irmly in tractor PTO
spline groove.
Make sure driveline shield tether chains are
attached to the tra ctor and equ ipme nt as sho wn in
this manual. Replace if damage d or broken. Chec k
that drivel ine guards ro tate freely on drivel ine
before putting equipment into service.
Before starting power unit, check a ll equipment
driveline guards for damage. Replace any da maged
guards. Make sure all guards rotate freely on all
drivelines. If guards do not rotate freely on drivelines, repair and replace bearin gs before putting
equipment into service.
Power unit must be equipped with ROPS or
ROPS cab and seat bel t. Keep seat belt se curely
fastened. Falling off power unit can result in death
from being run over or crushed. Keep foldable
ROPS systems in “locked up” position at all times.
Power unit must be equipped with ROPS or
ROPS cab and seat bel t. Keep seat belt se curely
fastened. Falling off power unit can result in death
from being run over or crushed. Keep foldable
ROPS systems in “locked up” position at all times.
Remove accumulated debris from this equipment, power unit, and engine to avoid fire hazard.
Make sure all safety decals are installed.
Replace if damaged. (See S afet y Deca ls se ctio n f or
location.)
Make sure shields and guards are properly
installed and in good condition. Replace if damaged.
A minimum 25% of tractor and equipment
weight must be on the tractor front wheels when
attachments are in transport position. Without this
weight, tractor could tip over, causing personal
injury or death. The weight may be attained with a
loader. Weigh the tract or and equ ipment. D o not
estimate.
OPERATION
Full chain shielding, designed to reduce the
possibility of thrown objects, must be installed
when operating in populated areas or other areas
where thrown objects could injure people or damage property. If this machine is not equipped with
full chain shielding, operation must be stopped
when anyone comes within several hundred feet.
RD 54/60/72 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Safety 5
SAFETY RULES
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Inspect and clear area of stones, branches, or
other hard objects that might be thrown, causing
injury or damage.
Never direct discharge toward people, animals,
or property.
Keep bystanders away from equipment.
Never go underneath equipment (lowered to the
ground or raised) unless it is properly blocked and
secured. Never place any part of the body underneath equipment or between moveable parts even
when the engine has been turned off. Hydraulic
system leak down, hydraulic system failures,
mechanical failures, or mov ement of co ntrol le vers
can cause equipment to drop or rotate unexpectedly and cause severe injury or death. Follow Operator's Manual instructions for working underneath
and blocking requirements or have work done by a
qualified dealer.
Do not operate or transport equipment while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing away from
equipment while engine is running. Stay clear of all
moving parts.
Always comply with all state and local lighting
and marking requirements.
Never allow riders on power unit or attachment.
Always sit in power unit seat when operating
controls or startin g engine. Se curely faste n seat
belt, place transmission i n neutral, engage brake,
and ensure all other controls are disengaged
before starting power unit engine.
Operate tractor PTO at 540 RPM. Do not exceed.
Look down and to the rear and make sure area
is clear before operating in reverse.
Do not operate or transport on steep slopes.
Do not stop, start, or change directions sud-
denly on slopes.
Use extreme care and reduce ground speed on
slopes and rough terrain.
Watch for hidden hazards on the terrain during
operation.
Stop power unit and implement immediately
upon striking an obstruction. Dismount power unit,
using proper procedure. Inspect and repair any
damage before resuming operation.
TRANSPORTATION
Use additional caution and reduce speed when
under adverse surface conditions, turning, or on
inclines.
Do not operate PTO during transport.
A minimum 25% of tractor and equipment
weight must be on the tractor front wheels when
attachments are in transport position. Without this
weight, tractor could tip over, causing personal
injury or death. The weight may be attained with a
loader. Weigh the tract or and equ ipment. D o not
estimate.
Do not operate or transport on steep slopes.
Do not operate or transport equipment while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Always comply with all state and local lighting
and marking requirements.
Never allow riders on power unit or attachment.
MAINTENANCE
Before working underneath, carefully read Op erator’s Manual instructions, disconnect driveline,
raise mower, securely block up all corners with
jackstands, and check stability. Secure blocking
prevents equipment from dropping due to hydraulic leak down, hydraulic system failures, or
mechanical component failures.
Do not modify or alter or permit anyone else to
modify or alter the equipment or any of i ts components in any way.
Always wear relatively tight and belted clothing
to avoid entanglement in moving parts. Wear
sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and protective
equipment for eyes, hair, hands, hearing, and head;
and respirator or filter mask where appropriate.
Make sure attachment is properly secured,
adjusted, and in good operating condition.
Keep all persons away from operator control
area while performing adjustments, service, or
maintenance.
Make certain all movement of equipmen t components has stopped before app roaching fo r service.
Never go underneath equipment (lowered to the
ground or raised) unless it is properly blocked and
secured. Never place any part of the body underneath equipment or between moveable parts even
6 Safety RD 54/60/72 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
SAFETY RULES
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
when the engine has been turned off. Hydraulic
system leak down, hydraulic system failures,
mechanical failures, or mov ement of co ntrol le vers
can cause equipment to drop or rotate unexpectedly and cause severe injury or death. Follow Operator's Manual instructions for working underneath
and blocking requirements or have work done by a
qualified dealer.
Frequently check blades. They should be sharp,
free of nicks and cracks, and securely fastened.
Do not handle blades with bare hands. Careless
or improper handling may result in serious injury.
Your dealer can supply genuine replacement
blades. Substitute blades may not meet original
equipment specifications and may be dangerous.
Tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws to torque
chart specifications. Check that all cotter pins ar e
installed securely to ensure equipment is in a safe
condition before putting unit into service.
Make sure all safety decals are installed.
Replace if damaged. (See S afet y Deca ls se ctio n f or
location.)
Make sure shields and guards are properly
installed and in good condition. Replace if damaged.
Wear gloves when installing belt. Be careful to
prevent fingers from being caught between belt
and pulley.
Use care when installing or removing belt from
spring-loaded idler. Springs store energy when
extended and, if released suddenly, can cause personal injury.
STORAGE
Follow manual instructions for storage.
Keep children and bystanders away from stor-
age area.
RD 54/60/72 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Safety 7
SAFETY & INSTRUCTIONAL DECALS
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Replace Immediately If Damaged!
DANGER
SHIELD MISSING
DO NOT OPERATE
PUT SHIELD ON
2 - 18867
18867--B
11 - 20106 - Rear Reflector (RD60 & RD72 Only)
1 - 15503
DANGER
ROTATING BLADES AND
THROWN OBJECTS
Do not put hands or feet under or into mower when
engine is running.
Before mowing, clear area of objects that may be
thrown by blade.
Keep bystanders away.
Keep guards in place and in good condition.
BLADE CONTACT OR THROWN OBJECTS CAN
CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
15503-C
3 - Serial Number Plate
MODEL NO. SER IAL NO.
Woods Equipment Company
Oregon, Illinois, U.S.A.
4 - 1003751
WARNING
CRUSHING AND PINCHING HAZARD
Be extremely careful handling various parts of
the machine. They are heavy and hands, fingers,
feet, and other body parts could be crushed or
pinched between tractor and implement.
Operate tractor controls from tractor seat only.
Do not stand between tractor and implement
when tractor is in gear.
Make sure parking brake is engaged before
going between tractor and implement.
Stand clear of machine while in operation or
when it is being raised or lowered.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
1003751-A
8 Safety MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
SAFETY & INSTRU CTIONAL DECALS
5 - 18866
DA
NG
ER
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Replace Immediately If Damaged!
WARNING
DO NOT EXCEED PTO SPEED OF
540 RPM
PTO speeds higher than 540 RPM can cause
equipment failure and personal injury.
18866-D
DANGER
ROTATING DRIVELINE
CONTACT CAN CAUSE DEATH
KEEP AWAY!
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT -
All driveline guards, tractor and
equipment shields in place
Drivelines securely attached at both ends
Driveline guards that turn freely on
driveline
18864-C
8 - 18865
FALLING OFF CAN RESULT IN BEING RUN OVER.
Tractor must be equipped with ROPS (or ROPS CAB) and seat
belt. Keep foldable ROPS systems in “locked up” position at all
times.
Buckle Up! Keep seat belt securely fastened.
6 - 18864
9 - 1004114
If shaft connection is visible, shield
is missing. Replace shield before
operating equipment.
Allow no riders.
RAISED EQUIPMENT CAN DROP AND CRUSH.
Before working underneath, follow all instructions and safety rules in
operator’s manual and securely block up all corners of equipment
with jack stands.
Securely blocking prevents equipment dropping from hydraulic leakdown, hydraulic system failures or mechanical component failures.
FALLING OFF OR FAILING TO BLOCK SECURELY CAN
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEA TH.
NG
ER
WARNING
1004114
10 - 33347
18865--C
DANGER
7 - 1002423
WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH:
Read Operator's Manual before operating,
servicing or repairing equipment. Follow all
safety rules and instructions. (Manuals are
available from your selling dealer.)
Never allow riders.
Keep bystanders away from equipment during
operation.
Operate from tractor seat only.
Keep all shields in place and in good condition.
Lower equipment to ground, stop engine,
remove key and set brake before dismounting
tractor.
Never allow children or untrained persons to
operate equipment.
Do not transport towed or semi-mounted units
over 20 MPH.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS
CAN RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH.
1002423-B
BE CAREFUL!
Use a clean, damp cloth to
clean safety decals. Avoid
spraying too close to decals
when using a pressure
washer; high-pressure water
can enter through very small
scratches or under edges of
decals causing them to peel
or come off.
Replacement safety decals
can be ordered free from your
Woods dealer. To locate your
nearest dealer, check the
Dealer Locator at
www.WoodsEquipment.com,
or in the United States and
Canada call 1-800-319-6637.
GUARD MISSING.
DO NOT OPERATE.
DANGER
GUARD MISSING.
DO NOT OPERATE.
33347E
DANGER
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Safety 9
OPERATION
CAUTION
The operator is responsible for the safe operation of
the mower. The operator must be properly trained.
Operators should be familiar with the mower, the tractor, and all safety practices before starting operation.
Read the safety rules and safety decals on page 5
through page 9.
This mower is design ed for lawn and grass m owing. It
is not designed for rough conditions or heavy weed
mowing. It is equipped with suction type blades for best
results in lawn mowing.
Recommended mowing speed for most conditions is
from 2 to 5 mph.
DANGER
Full chain shielding, designed to reduce the
possibility of thrown objects, must be installed
when operating in populated areas or other areas
where thrown objects could injure people or damage property. If this machine is not equipped with
full chain shielding, operation must be stopped
when anyone comes within several hundred feet.
using proper procedure. Inspect and repair any
damage before resuming operation.
Always wear relatively tight and belted clothing
to avoid entanglement in moving parts. Wear
sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and protective
equipment for eyes, hair, hands, hearing, and head;
and respirator or filter mask where appropriate.
T r ac tor Stability
WARNING
A minimum 25% of tractor and equipment
weight must be on the tractor front wheels when
attachments are i n transp or t positi on. Witho ut thi s
weight, tractor could tip over, causing personal
injury or death. The weight may be attained with a
loader. Weigh the tractor and equipment. Do not
estimate.
WARNING
Never allow children or untrained persons to
operate equipment.
Keep bystanders away from equipment.
Make sure spring-acti vated locking pin or collar
slides freely and is seated firmly in tractor PTO
spline groove.
Operate tractor PTO at 540 RPM. Do not exceed.
Before working underneath, carefully read Oper-
ator’s Manual instructions, disconnect driveline,
raise mower, securely block up all cor ners with
jackstands, and check stability. Secure blocking
prevents equipment from dropping due to hydraulic leak down, hydraulic system failures, or
mechanical component failures.
Keep all persons away from operator control
area while performing adjustments, service, or
maintenance.
Figure 1. Tractor Stability
Attach Mower to Tractor
WARNING
Make sure spring-activat ed locking p in or collar
slides freely and is seated f irmly in tractor PTO
spline groove.
The standard 1-3/8" 6B-spline dri veli ne with a QD yoke
is used to connect the mower to the tractor.
1. Attach the mower hitch pins to the lower tractor lift
arms and secure.
2. Attach tractor top link (1), Figure 2, to mower top
link bracket attachment point (A). Connect the
driveline to the tractor PTO shaft.
3. Attach tether chain to tractor drawbar (Figure 3).
Stop power unit and implement immediately
upon striking an obstruction. Dismount power unit,
10 Operation
4. Adjust the tractor lower 3-point arm anti-sway
devices to prevent mower from swinging side to
side during transport.
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
4. To raise rear of mower, move caster adjustment
spacers under rear caster arms.
5. To raise front of mower, move spacers under front
caster wheel arms.
Table 1: Cutting Height Chart
Spacers Required Under
Caster Arm Pivot Tube
1. Tractor Top Link
A. Mower Top Link Attachment Point
B. Mower Hitch Pin
Figure 2. Attachment Points
Tether Chain
CM906
Figure 3. Attach Mower to T ractor
Adjust Cutting Height
WARNING
Keep all persons away from operator control
area while performing adjustments, service, or
maintenance.
Cut Height 1/2" Spacer 1" Spacer
1" 00
1-1/2" 10
2" 01
2-1/2" 11
3" 02
3-1/2" 12
4" 03
4-1/2" 13
T ractor Top Link Adjustment
When the cutting height is set, adjust tractor top link
until mower top link a ttachment point (A), Figure 4, is
aligned vertically with mower hitch pin (B). The front
tires of the mower will lift off the ground before the rear
tires when the unit is raised. This will allow the mower
to follow the ground contour.
A. Mower top link attachment point
B. Mower hitch pin
C. Tractor top link
D. Mower hitch plate attach-
ment point
IMPORTANT
■ Avoid low cutting heights. Striking the ground
with blades produces one of the most damaging
shock loads a mower can encounter. Allowing
blades to contact ground repeatedly will cause
damage to mower and drive.
1. Level mower from side to side. Check by
measuring distance from mower frame to the
ground at each deck rail.
2. Verify that the same am ount of spacers are under
all caster arms.
3. Control cutting height by adjusting front and rear
caster wheels.
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Figure 4. Top Link Adjustment
RDC54 Only
The RDC54 has two mower hitch plate attachment
points (D). It may be ne cessary to change the mo wer
Operation 11
hitch plate attachment poi nt to obtain prop er tire clear -
CAUTION
ance and/or lift height.
Front Caster Wheel Interference Check
IMPORTANT
■ Do not operate tractor and mower until this
interference check has been performed. If you
change tractors, you must perform the check for
that mounting.
Perform this check with all of th e spacers and springs
above the caster wheel arm. This will place the caster
wheels in their hi ghest positi on and provid e the lowes t
cutting height for the mower.
1. Raise mower with tractor hydraulics to 16" at
dimension C, Figure 5, or maximum height of
tractor lift, whichever is less.
2. Pi vot both front caster wheels forw ard and check
that there is clear ance betw een caster wheels an d
tractor tires.
3. If there is interference on RDC54 model, adjust
mower hitch plate point a s shown in Figure 4. On
model RD60 and RD72, the hitch plate is not
adjustable; see tractor operator’s manual and
adjust tractor wheels accordingly.
Stop power unit and implement immediately
upon striking an obstruction. Dismount power unit,
using proper procedure. Inspect and repair any
damage before resuming operation.
Power for operating the mower is supp lied by the tractor PTO. Operate PTO at 540 rpm. Know how to stop
tractor and mower quickly in an emergency.
If mower becomes p lugged c aus in g b el t to s lip fo r over
two seconds, follow these steps:
1. Maneuver equipment into a previously cut area
and allow mower to clear accumulated material.
2. Continue running at least two minutes, allowing
pulleys to cool. Stopping the mower when in
contact with a very hot pulley will bake and ruin
belt.
Proper ground spee d will depe nd upon the terrain, the
height, and type and density of material to be cut.
Normally, ground speed will range from 2 to 5 mph. Tall
dense material should be cut at a low speed; thin
medium-height mater ial can be cut at a faster ground
speed. Always operate tractor PTO at 540 rpm to maintain proper blade speed and produce a clean cut.
Figure 5. Front Caster Wheel Interference Check
Front Roller (Optional)
The caster wheels effectively reduce scalping in most
cases. However, you may encoun ter areas where the
caster wheels an d/or side skids drop into dep ressions
and allow center of the mower to co ntact ground and
scalp. An optional front roller may be installed to minimize scalping. See page 40.
Operating Technique
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some
grass down and prevent it from being cut at the same
height as the surrounding area. When this occurs,
reduce your ground speed, but maintain PTO at 540
rpm. The lower groun d speed will permit gr ass to partially rebound.
In general, lower cutting heights give a more even cu t
and leave less tire tracks. Howe ver, it is better to cut
grass frequently rather than too short. Short grass
deteriorates rapidly in hot weather and invites weed
growth during growing seasons. Follow local recommendations for the suitable cutting height in your area.
Operating Tips
WARNING
Inspect and clear area of stones, branches, or
other hard objects that might be thrown, causing
injury or damage.
Extremely tall material should be cu t twice. Set mower
at a higher cutting he ight for the first pass. Then cut a t
desired height, 90 degre es to the first pass. Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and require
less power.
12 Operation
Analyze area to be cut to determine the best procedure. Consider height and type of grass and terrain
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
type: hilly, level, or rough. Plan your mowing patter n to
travel straight forward whenever possible. Mow with
uncut grass to the right. This will distribute the clippings
over the cut area.
Uneven Terrain
WARNING
Do not operate or transport on steep slopes.
Do not stop, start, or change directions sud-
denly on slopes.
Use extreme care and reduce ground speed on
slopes and rough terrain.
Watch for hidden hazards on the terrain during
operation.
Pass diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp
drops to prevent hanging up trac tor and mower. Practice will improve your skills in maneuver ing rough terrain.
Removing Mower from Tractor - Storage
Follow cleaning procedure, page 17.
1. Dis engage tractor PTO and raise mower with the
3-point hitch.
2. Disconnect mower driveshaft from tractor PTO.
3. Col lapse driveshaft as far as possibl e and store it
in PTO hanger bracket to prevent ground contact.
4. Place blocks under mower side skids. Lower
mower onto blocks, disconn ect mower from trac tor
3-point hitch, and carefully drive tractor away from
mower.
WARNING
Keep children and bystanders away from storage area.
OWNER PRE-OPERATION CHECK LIST
(OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY)
___ Review and follow all safety rules and safety
decal instructions on page 5 through page 9.
___ Check th at all safety decals are installe d and in
good condition. Replace if damaged.
___ Check that all shields and guards are properly
installed and in good condi tion. Replace if damaged.
___ Check that chain shielding is in good condition
and replace any damaged chain links.
___ Check that all har dware and cotte r pins are prop-
erly installed and secured.
___ Check to ensure blades are sharp, in good condi-
tion, and installed correctly. Replace if damaged.
___ Check that equipment is properly and securely
attached to tractor.
___ Make sure driveline spring-activated locking pin
or collar slid es freely and is seated firmly i n tractor PTO spline groove.
___ Make su re the drivel ine gu ards and te ther chai ns
are in good conditi on. Guards must rotate freely
on driveline. Fasten tether chains to the tractor
and the equipment as instructed.
___ Inspect area and remove stones, branches or
other hard objects that might be thro wn, causing
injury or damage.
___ Do not allow riders.
___ Check all lubrication points and grease as
instructed in “Lubric at ion Infor mat ion ” on page 14
& page 15. Make sure the PTO slip joint is lu bri-
cated and that the gearbox fluid levels are cor-
rect.
___ Set tractor PTO at correct rpm for your equip-
ment.
___ Make sure tr actor ROPS or ROPS cab and seat
belt are in good condition. Keep seat belt
securely fastened during operation.
___ Before starti ng engine, operator must be in t rac-
tor seat with seat belt fastened. Pl ace transmis-
sion in neutral or park, engage brake, and
disengage tractor PTO.
Figure 6. Mower Storage Position
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Operation 13
OWNER SERVICE
CAUTION
The information in this section is written for operators
who possess basic mechanical skills. If you need help,
your dealer has trained service technicians available.
For your protection, read and follow the sa fety info rmation in this manual.
Always wear relatively tight and belted clothing
to avoid entanglement in moving parts. Wear
sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and protective
equipment for eyes, hair, hands, hearing, and head;
and respirator or filter mask where appropriate.
WARNING
Never allow children or untrained persons to
operate equipment.
Keep bystanders away from equipment.
Before working underneath, carefully read Oper-
ator’s Manual instructions, disconnect driveline,
raise mower, securely block up all cor ners with
jackstands, and check stability. Secure blocking
prevents equipment from dropping due to hydraulic leak down, hydraulic system failures, or
mechanical component failures.
Keep all persons away from operator control
area while performing adjustments, service, or
maintenance.
Make sure spring-acti vated locking pin or collar
slides freely and is seated firmly in tractor PTO
spline groove.
Operate tractor PTO at 540 RPM. Do not exceed.
BLOCKING METHOD
Do not work underneath mower unless it is properly
attached to the tractor and blocked securely. When
properly attached, the unit will be anchored to minimize
front to rear movement.
Raise mower completely, set tractor brakes, turn
engine off, remove key, block tractor wheels fron t and
rear, and disconnect mower driveline from tractor.
The only approved blocking devic es for this mo wer are
jackstands with a load rating of 1000 poun ds or more.
One jackstand under each corner of the mower (four
total) must be installed befo re working und erneath this
unit.
When blocking, you must consider overall stability of
the unit. Just blocking under the unit will not ensure
your safety. The working surface must be level and
solid to support the loaded weight of the jackstands.
Test ja ckstand stability before worki ng under any portion of the mower.
Figure 7. Jackstand Placement
Lubrication Information
Do not let excess grease collect on or around parts,
particularly when operating in sandy areas.
Figure 8 shows the lubric ation points. Th e accom panying chart gives the fr eq uen cy of l ubri ca tio n in ope ra tin g
hours, based on normal operating conditions.
Severe or unusual conditions may require more frequent lubrication. So me refer ence num bers have mor e
than one location; be sure you lubricate all locations.
Use a lithium grease of #2 consistency with a MOLY
(molybdenum disulfide) additive for all locations. Be
sure to clean fittings thoroughly before attaching
grease gun. When a pplied accordin g to the lubricat ion
chart, one good pump of most guns is sufficient.
Use SAE 90W gear lube i n the gearb ox. Fill to pl ug on
side of gearbox.
Check gearbox daily for evidence of leakage at both
seals and the gasket between the housing and cover. If
leakage is noted, repair imm ediately. There may be a
small amount of lube em itted from the vent plug; thi s is
not considered leakage.
Overfilling the ge arbox wi ll caus e the e xces s gear lube
to blow out vent plug and ruin the belt.
Driveshaft Lubrication
Lubricate the driveshaft slip joint every 40 operating
hours. Failure to maintain proper lubrication could
result in damage to U-joints, gearbox, and driveshaft.
1. Lower mower to ground.
14 Owner Service
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
2. Remove front half of driveshaft.
3. Apply grease all around and along inner shaft.
4. Reassemble driveshaft halves.
5. Rai se and lower mower several times to distribute
grease.
SERVICE BELT
Replace Belt
One of the major causes of belt failure is improper
installation. Before installi ng a new belt, check the following:
1. Check pulley shafts and bearings for wear.
2. Check pulley grooves for cleanliness.
3. Make sure spindles turn freely and without wobble.
Ref
No.
1 Front U-Joint 8 Hours
2 Caster Wheel (Four wheels) 8 Hours
3 Caster Pivot (Four wheels) 8 Hours
4 Left Spindle (Access through hole) 40 Hours
5 Shield Bearings 8 Hours
6 Rear U-Joint 8 Hours
7 Gearbox (Fill to center of horizontal shaft with
SAE 80W or 90W gear lube)
8 Right Spindle (Access through hole) 40 Hours
9 Center Spindle (Access through hole) 40 Hours
10 Slip Joint 40 Hours
MAN0260 (Rev. 1/12/2007)
Description Frequency
Check Daily
For Leakage
Figure 8. Lubrication Points & Chart
Owner Service 15
Loading...