Operating Falls Motor Grader Mounted Plows/Dozers
DO NOT operate truck and snow plow until you have read the operating instructions and are thoroughly familiar with all controls and functions.
- SPRING TRIP TILT BARS/RED TAG NOTICE!
The cutting edge may be set in one of three (3) positions: 20, 25 & 35 degrees. The proper angle depends on the snowplowing conditions. In general, the more perpendicular the cutting edge is set to the road surface, the less force is needed to activate the spring loaded trip bars. It is recommended that the most perpendicular position (20 degrees) be selected during initial operation.
- Unless otherwise specified, the control levers for operating the plow/dozer are set as follows: pull to raise, push to lower.
- Inspect all nuts, bolts, clamps, etc. prior to use. Replace broken or worn parts immediately. Re-torque loose fittings to SAE standards.
- Inspect the cutting edge prior to each use and at various intervals during the period of use to inspect for wear, loose or missing fasteners, and breakage. Repair or replace as needed. Do not attempt to wear cutting edge beyond useable life to avoid damage to bottom moldboard support structure (frog).
- If the plow/dozer is equipped with down pressure certain precautions should be observed.
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WARNING!
Excessive down pressure will remove weight from front wheels that will result in hampered steering and control of motor grader as well as possible damage to equipment.
- If your snow plow/dozer is equipped with down pressure, the float position of the hydraulic circuit should be used for any normal plowing situations and using the down pressure feature only to assist the snow plow in getting under hard-packed or crusted snow.
- Place the plow/dozer circuit in the float position during storage periods. This will allow the hydraulic cylinder to freely expand and contract as a result of thermal expansion and will also prevent possible hydraulic circuit damage due to high-pressure thermal expansion.
CAUTION!
Accidental actuation of the float circuit while in the transport position will result in a sudden drop of the plow/dozer. Serious injury or damage may result.
- Do not attempt to plow snow with the plow suspended off the ground. Serious damage to the snow plow/dozer may result as well as subjecting the front axle assembly to possible overload.
- The design of the V-plow cutting edge on the Falls V-type Plows is essential to its efficient operation. Use only authorized replacement blades for best performance.
- Certain motor graders come equipped with special protective circuit valves in conjunction with a plow/dozer. These valves are essential to safe operation. Unauthorized removal or modification may result in serious damage and the loss of warranty rights. If the valves become damaged or cease to function properly repair or replace immediately.
- The Falls Modified Husting Hitch requires generous lubrication. Frequency of application depends on the environment in which the unit is operated. Exposure to abrasive material, accumulation of dirt, etc, may require more frequent cleaning and lubrication.
- In order to preserve the chrome plated shafts on hydraulic cylinders, the hydraulic cylinder should be operated at least once each day. This is particularly important for those cylinders that operate in a normally extended position (e.g. hydraulic rear slide, power reversible plows). This operation allows oil to penetrate the "pores" of the chrome to prevent rusting. When storing units for the off season, insure that hydraulic cylinders are stored in the fully collapsed position and that all ports, hoses, etc. have been capped or plugged to prevent the introduction of moisture and contaminants.
- Unauthorized modification or alteration of Falls Snow Equipment or the hydraulic system may result in loss of equipment capabilities, damage, injury, and the loss of warranty rights (see also warranty statement).
Contact us about your needs and make sure you're working with nothing less than the best equipment available; equipment from Little Falls Machine, #1 on the road.