Finn B70 - Introduction and Operation; How the B70 Straw Blower Works; Towing Vehicle and Loading Bales

5
Operation and Maintenance Manual
for B70 Straw Blower
INTRODUCTION:
This manual is designed for step-by-step instructions of the operation, care, and maintenance of
the B70 Straw Blower and, in addition, it contains illustrations and descriptions of a complete list
of parts and components for easy identification. For best results and to ensure longer life of the
equipment, please follow the instructions carefully. For your safety, read the entire manual before
operation of this unit.
DEFINITION OF MULCHING:
Mulching is the process whereby a vegetative mulch, such as hay or straw, sometimes excelsior, or
other wood product or other vegetative material, is spread on previously seeded areas to promote
germination, while providing temporary erosion control.
THE FINN B70 STRAW BLOWER AND HOW IT WORKS:
The FINN B70 Straw Blower will apply vegetative mulch at a fast and uniform rate, utilizing a
minimum amount of manpower.
The baled vegetative mulch material is placed on the feed chute and separated by the bale feeder
as he or she feeds these bales into the shredder housing. In the shredder housing, a combination
of beater chains and air currents separates the mulch into individual fibers that are drawn into the
blower housing and blown through the discharge assembly onto the seedbed.
TOWING VEHICLE:
The truck used to tow the FINN B70 Straw Blower should have a bed large enough to carry the
quantity of mulch needed for economical operation. The truck must be equipped with a ball or
pintle type hitch to tow the Straw Blower. This hitch should be mounted as near to the end of the
truck bed as possible. Use a 2 inch ball, rated 6000 lb. (2721 kg): the tow vehicle must be able to
support 600 lb. (272 kg) down on its hitch.
LOADING BALES:
Load the bales of mulch on the truck bed with binder twine or wire on top rather than on the side.
This makes it easier to grab the bales while the Straw Blower is in operation. Place the first layer of
bales “lengthwise” on the truck. The second layer of bales should be placed “crosswise”. Alternate
successive layers lengthwise and crosswise in order to secure the load. Leave enough room at the
rear of the truck bed for the bale handler to stand.
PRE-START CHECK:
1. Skid Unit – Check condition of all mounting hardware securing the Straw Blower to the
truck bed.
Trailer Unit – Inspect hitch, safety chains, lights, brakes, and breakaway switch.
2. Ensure all guards are in place.