7
SELECTING A MULCHING MATERIAL:
Several factors must be considered when selecting material to convey through the Bark Blower.
The variety of the wood used, how it is processed, its moisture content, and the presence of for-
eign objects all effect the ability of the Bark Blower to convey the mulch at a uniform and accept-
able rate.
The mulch material must be processed and/or screened so that a minimum of material is over 2 in.
(5.1 cm) in any direction, with no material exceeding 4 in. (10.2 cm) in length. The Bark Blower is
not a wood processor. The Bark Blower only reduces mulch fibers when they protrude above the
rotary air valve vanes. As the vanes rotate past the knife, the protruding fibers are sheared off. If
the mulch contains long or large fibers and the wood fibers are harder to cut, then the machine’s
throughput is reduced. For example, if two mulches have the same mix of material sizes that the
Bark Blower rotor must cut, but one is a softwood like pine and one is a hardwood such as oak,
the pine would go through at a higher rate because it is easier to cut. Two characteristics must be
considered when selecting a material: the “greenness” of the wood, and the moisture of the mulch
as a whole. Wood that is well-seasoned is easier to cut than “green” wood. Seasoned wood also
processes better, making a less stringy mulch. High moisture in the mulch may cause it to bridge
in the hopper.
CAUTION
Avoid using mulches that contain any hard foreign objects such as rocks, nails, steel,
cans, glass, etc. Failure to comply could result in minor personal injury, product damage,
or property damage.
PRE-START EQUIPMENT CHECK:
CAUTION
Equipment check must be made with the engine off and all rotating parts stopped. Failure
to comply could result in minor personal injury, product damage, or property damage.
1. Check all trailer connections to the towing vehicle, as well as the condition of the safety
chains, and bolts connecting the ball coupler or pintle eye to the tongue.
2. Ensure that all guards are in place.
3. Tool Kit - make sure that it contains all prescribed items (see Tool Kit, page 47).
4. Lubricate equipment. Use hand gun only (see Lubrication Chart, pages 18 and 19).
5. Check engine oil and fill or change if necessary. Refer to engine operator’ s manual.
6. Check the radiator liquid level and fill if necessary. (Protected to -34°F (-37°C) when
shipped.)
7. Check fuel level. Use number 2-D diesel fuel oil, unless operating at ambient temperature
below 40ºF (4ºC) or at an altitude exceeding 5000 ft (1524 m). In those instances, use
number 1-D diesel fuel oil.
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