Ferris Pathfinder Series - User Manual

This document is an operator's manual for the Ferris Pathfinder Series Spreader/Sprayer, specifically covering the Pathfinder Series (FS2100) and Pathfinder XC Series (FS2200) models.

Function Description

The Ferris Pathfinder Series Spreader/Sprayer is a versatile piece of equipment designed for spreading granular materials and spraying liquids. It is primarily used for lawn and garden applications, such as applying fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals. The device is a walk-behind unit, meaning the operator walks behind it to control its operation. It features a hopper for granular materials and a tank for liquids, allowing for dual functionality. The spreader system is designed to distribute materials evenly across a specified width, while the sprayer system applies liquids through nozzles. The unit is equipped with controls for adjusting spread patterns, spray width, and flow rates, enabling precise application for various tasks and terrains, including slopes.

Important Technical Specifications

The manual provides detailed specifications for both the Pathfinder Series (5901752) and Pathfinder XC Series (5901753) models.

Engine:

• Make: Honda
• Model: GX160-URH2
• Electrical System: N/A
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 2.5 gallons (9.5 L)

Chassis:

• Front Tires: 18" X 9.50 - 8 (Tire Size), 15 psi (1,03 bar) / RV antifreeze added for ballast and traction (Inflation Pressure)
• Rear Tires: 13 X 6.50 - 6 (Tire Size), 20 psi (1,38 bar) (Inflation Pressure)

Transmissions:

• Transmission Model: Peerless 855 Series
• Gear Selections: 2 forward, 1 reverse, neutral
• Speed: Low gear: 3.5 mph (5,6 km/h); High gear: 5.0 mph (8,0 km/h)

Dimensions (for model 5901752 - Pathfinder Series):

• Overall Length: 54.0" (137 cm)
• Overall Width: 35.5" (90 cm)
• Overall Height: 49.0" (124 cm)
• Weight (dry): 375 lbs (170 kg)
• Weight (wet): 600 lbs (272 kg)

Dimensions (for model 5901753 - Pathfinder XC Series):

• Overall Length: 58.0" (147 cm)
• Overall Width: 35.5" (90 cm)
• Overall Height: 50.5" (128 cm)
• Weight (dry): 450 lbs (204 kg)
• Weight (wet): 785 lbs (356 kg)

Spreader:

• Spreader Model: Spyker 220 Series
• Capacity: 100 lbs (45,4 kg) for 5901752; 220 lbs (90,7 kg) for 5901753

Usage Features

The Pathfinder Series Spreader/Sprayer is designed for ease of use and precise application.

• Controls: The unit features intuitive controls for managing both spreading and spraying operations. These include a gear selector (R, N, 1, 2), a parking brake, and a combination spray control knob. The spray control knob allows adjustment of spray pressure and width (WIDE/NARROW). The gate lever controls the flow of granular material from the hopper.
• Spreading Operation: The spreader system allows for calibration to achieve desired spread patterns and application rates. The manual provides detailed instructions for calibrating the spreader, including measuring the effective spread width and adjusting the gate stop. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the material being spread and its characteristics for accurate calibration.
• Spraying Operation: The sprayer system includes a tank for liquids and nozzles for application. The spray control knob enables the operator to open/close spray valves and adjust spray pressure. Calibration of the spray system involves checking the pressure relief valve, strainer, and collecting output from nozzles to ensure the correct flow rate.
• Slope Operation: The manual provides extensive guidelines for operating the device on slopes, emphasizing safety precautions. It advises against operating on slopes greater than 8 degrees for spreading and 9 degrees for spraying. It also details techniques for turning, maintaining stability, and handling the unit on inclines.
• Safety Interlock System: The unit is equipped with a transmission neutral start safety interlock switch, which prevents the engine from starting unless the transmission is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged.
• Transporting: Instructions are provided for safely loading and unloading the unit onto a trailer or rack, including engaging the parking brake and securing the unit with straps, cables, chains, or rope.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of the Ferris Pathfinder Series Spreader/Sprayer. The manual outlines a comprehensive maintenance schedule.

• Daily Inspections: Before each use, operators should inspect the shaft bushing in the bottom of the hopper, check the entire unit for loose hardware, resolve any operating issues, and check the unit's safety interlock system.
• 25 Hour Maintenance Interval: Check tire pressure in all four tires.
• 50 Hour Maintenance Interval: Clean debris from the engine and muffler, grease the wheel bearings on the operator platform, wash the machine with low pressure water, apply light oil lubricant to all moving parts except belts and pulleys, check the unit's brakes, and adjust if necessary. Grease caster pivot tube bearings.
• 100 Hour Maintenance Interval: Inspect the fuel tank for debris, clean if necessary. Inspect the fuel filter, clean or replace as necessary.
• Engine Maintenance: The manual refers to the engine manufacturer's manual for specific engine maintenance tasks, including checking engine oil level, cleaning visible debris from the engine compartment, changing engine oil, and checking/replacing spark plugs.
• Unit Maintenance: Inspect belts, clean and spray spray tank, and check the spray system output rate.
• Troubleshooting: A dedicated section provides troubleshooting guides for common problems, such as the machine not starting, spreading system operating incorrectly, and spraying system operating incorrectly. This section details potential causes and corrective actions for various issues, including fuel level, fuel line clogs, choke settings, hopper gate problems, and spray system malfunctions.
• Safety Decals: The manual includes detailed descriptions of all safety decals on the unit, emphasizing their importance for operator safety. These decals cover warnings related to rotating parts, chemical hazards, hot surfaces, and proper operation.