Fisher 500 - User Manual

Other manuals for Fisher 500

Service Manual12 pages

Questions and Answers

J
Jordan PerryJul 31, 2025
Why is the spinner on my Fisher 500 not turning when the motor is running?
- B
  bauersamanthaJul 31, 2025
  If the motor of your Fisher Spreader is running, but the spinner isn't turning, check for any obstructions preventing rotation and clear them. Inspect the drive belt for looseness or damage; adjust the tension or replace the belt if necessary. Ensure the motor pulley is securely fastened to the motor shaft by tightening the pulley set screw or replacing the pulley if damaged. Verify that the spinner pulley is securely attached to the spinner shaft; replace the cap screw and nut if missing or damaged, and replace the pulley if damaged. Finally, check the spinner shaft bearings for dryness or seizure; grease or replace the bearings as needed.
K
keith91Aug 10, 2025
What to do if the speed control dial on my Fisher 500 doesn't change motor speed?
- K
  kjonesAug 10, 2025
  If the speed control dial on your Fisher Spreader's Variable Speed cab control isn't changing the motor speed, the cab control may be malfunctioning, and you should replace it. Also, check if the red and white connectors are incorrectly hooked up; if so, reconnect them correctly, ensuring red matches red and white matches white.
G
Gary McclureAug 15, 2025
Why is ice control material not flowing from my Fisher 500 Spreader even though the spinner is turning?
- P
  Peter AdkinsAug 15, 2025
  If the ice control material isn't flowing from your Fisher Spreader even when the spinner is turning, check the hopper for any bridging of material or obstructions. Free any bridged material or clear any obstructions you find.
K
kimgaryAug 20, 2025
How to fix a spread pattern that is not optimum on a Fisher 500?
- P
  pamelaingramAug 20, 2025
  To optimize the spread pattern of your Fisher Spreader, adjust the deflector to suit the desired pattern. Note that the deflector is optional equipment.
E
Erica StewartOct 25, 2025
What to do if my Fisher Spreader does not operate but the indicator light is illuminated?
- A
  Alisha DeleonOct 25, 2025
  If your Fisher Spreader isn't working but the indicator lights are on, first, reset the cab control by turning the power off. If you have a Variable Speed Control, press the START/BLAST switch to start it again. Also, inspect the wire harness for damage or open circuits between the cab control and the spreader. Check the plug connections at both the cab control and the spreader, and examine the wire connections at the spreader motor and the vehicle battery. Disconnect the motor leads, turn the control ON, and set the cab control to MAXIMUM on variable speed controls to check for voltage at the motor leads. Repair or replace any damaged wires or connectors, and check the 30A in-line fuse, replacing it if needed. If the spreader motor still isn't running and the shaft won't turn, consider re...
B
Bill ArcherNov 4, 2025
How to troubleshoot no power to the cab control on a Fisher 500 Spreader?
- S
  smithshannonNov 4, 2025
  If there's no power to the cab control of your Fisher Spreader, and the indicator lights aren't on, start by checking the control connector plug at the cab control to ensure it's securely connected. Then, check the battery lead in-line fuse and replace it if it's blown (use a 6A fuse for a 4-pin harness or a 10A fuse for a 3-pin harness), and inspect for any short circuits, ensuring the power supply is 12V DC. Also, check the battery connection for any issues such as low battery or poor connection; clean or replace the ring terminal and coat it with dielectric grease. Inspect the battery wiring harness for damage and repair or replace any damaged wires or the harness as needed. If you have an ON/OFF Control, check if the control circuit breaker is tripped; if so, set the control to OFF, re...

Summary

SAFETY

WARNING;CAUTION LABELS

Instructs users to familiarize themselves with warning and caution labels on the spreader.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Outlines essential safety measures to be followed before, during, and after operating the spreader.

OPERATING THE SPREADER

DRIVING AND SPREADING ON SNOW AND ICE

Offers tips for safe driving and spreading in winter conditions.

VARIABLE SPEED (PWM) CONTROL - NEW STYLE

Explains the operation of the new style variable speed control for the spreader.

VARIABLE SPEED (PWM) CONTROL - OLD STYLE

Explains the operation of the old style variable speed control for the spreader.

ON;OFF CONTROL

Describes the operation of the simple ON/OFF control for the spreader.

Diagnostic Indicator Light

Describes the function and troubleshooting codes of the diagnostic indicator light.

Starting and Stopping the Motor

Spinner Indicator Lights

Explains the meaning of the spinner indicator lights on the cab control.

The document is an owner's manual for the FISHER 95331 Low-Profile Tailgate Spreader, Model 500. It provides comprehensive information regarding the spreader's installation, operation, maintenance, and safety guidelines. This manual is specifically for FISHER Model 500 Low-Profile Tailgate Spreaders with serial numbers beginning with 030101 and higher, and it supersedes all earlier editions.

Function Description

The FISHER 95331 Low-Profile Tailgate Spreader, Model 500, is designed for spreading snow and ice control materials. It is intended for use with vehicles and is mounted to a receiver hitch. The spreader features a hopper for material storage and a spinner mechanism to distribute the material. The control system allows for variable speed operation or ON/OFF control, depending on the model style.

Important Technical Specifications

Model: 500 Low-Profile Tailgate Spreader
Serial Numbers: 030101 and higher
Material Capacity (Approximate Total Weight):
- 5.0 ft³: 480 lb (400 lb material + 80 lb base)
- 3.5 ft³: 360 lb (280 lb material + 80 lb base)
- 1.5 ft³: 200 lb (120 lb material + 80 lb base)
Material Density (Approximate):
- Salt: 80 lb/ft³ (2160 lb/yd³, 1282 kg/m³)
- Sand: 100 lb/ft³ (2700 lb/yd³, 1602 kg/m³)
Motor Specification: 12V DC, 0.56 kW Motor
Fuses:
- 6A Fuse (Two-Way Molded Connector)
- 30A Fuse (Battery connection)
- 10A Fuse (3-pin harness, for older controls)
Wiring Harness: 4-pin harness
Noise Emission: Below 70 dB(A) for the spreader operator
Certifications: Conforms to EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Directive 2011/65/EC (RoHS2).

Usage Features

The spreader offers two main control options: Variable Speed (PWM) Control (new and old styles) and ON/OFF Control.

Variable Speed (PWM) Control – New Style:

START/BLAST Button: Starts the motor and allows for a temporary "BLAST" or maximum speed operation when held down. Releasing the button returns to the preset speed.
OFF Button: Stops the motor and functions as an emergency stop.
Speed Dial: Adjusts the spinner speed. Turning clockwise increases speed (indicated by green LEDs), and counterclockwise decreases speed.
Diagnostic Indicator Light: Flashes a specific number of times to indicate problems (e.g., no fault, no power, no motor, no ground, overheated, excess current).
Ignition Requirement: The truck ignition must be ON to start the spreader. If the truck ignition is turned OFF while running, the motor will stop.

Variable Speed (PWM) Control – Old Style:

Power Switch (START/BLAST, ON, OFF):
- "START/BLAST" position (momentary): Starts the motor or provides maximum speed when held. Returns to "ON" when released.
- "ON" position: Spreader operates at the speed selected on the speed dial.
- "OFF" position: Stops the motor and functions as an emergency stop.
Speed Dial: Adjusts the spinner speed. Turning clockwise increases speed, and counterclockwise decreases speed.
Spinner Indicator Lights: Two lights (red for fault, green for power ON/motor running) indicate motor status.
Ignition Requirement: The truck ignition must be ON to start the spreader. If the truck ignition is turned OFF while running, the motor will stop.

ON/OFF Control:

Power Switch (ON, OFF, BLAST):
- "ON" position: Starts the motor immediately.
- "OFF" position: Stops the motor and functions as an emergency stop.
- "BLAST" position (momentary): Provides maximum speed when held. Returns to "OFF" and stops the motor when released.
Spinner Indicator Light: An illuminated light indicates power to the motor.
Ignition Requirement: The truck ignition must be ON to start the spreader. If the truck ignition is turned OFF while running, the motor will stop.

General Usage:

Loading: Only dry, clean, free-flowing snow and ice control materials should be used. Wet materials or materials with foreign debris are not recommended. Overloading beyond GVWR or GAWR ratings is prohibited.
Driving and Spreading: Emphasizes defensive driving, maintaining good visibility, slowing down, and avoiding distractions. Recommends an OSHA compliant backup alarm for governed employers due to reduced rear visibility.
Spinner Ring Kit (PN 95475): Recommended for spreading materials with grain size smaller than 1/16" to prevent "free flowing" when the spreader is OFF.

Maintenance Features

The manual outlines detailed preseason, postseason, and general maintenance procedures.

General Maintenance:

Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the spreader inside and out after every use, disconnecting electrical power first. Tap water or a high-pressure washer can be used.
Material Handling: DO NOT leave unused material in the hopper, as it can freeze or solidify. Empty and clean after each use.
Lubrication: Lubricate grease fittings after each use with a good quality multipurpose grease.

Preseason Check:

Drive Belt: Inspect for cracks or damaged teeth; replace if needed.
Motor Connection Terminals: Check for damage or corrosion; clean, replace, and coat with dielectric grease if necessary.
Drive Shaft Bearings: Remove the drive belt, spin the shaft by hand, and check for noise or roughness. Grease thoroughly with low-temperature synthetic grease if they pass inspection.
Drive Sprocket Set Screws: Verify tightness.
Motor Cap Assembly Seal: Check condition and replace if needed.
Spinner Disk: Inspect for excessive wear; replace if necessary.
Fasteners: Tighten all fasteners according to the Torque Chart.
Vehicle Stoplights: Verify visibility and proper function.

Postseason Maintenance:

Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the unit inside and out.
Electrical Connections: Apply dielectric grease to all electrical connections to prevent corrosion.
Bearings: Grease the drive shaft bearings.
Metal Surfaces: Oil or paint all bare metal surfaces.
Storage: Place the lid on the hopper body and secure the latch. Store the unit upright, stabilized with supports, and on blocks if outdoors to eliminate ground moisture.

Drive Belt Replacement:

Remove the motor cap assembly.
Loosen four Phillips head screws fastening the motor mount.
Slide the motor toward the drive shaft.
Remove and replace the belt.
Slide the motor mount away from the drive shaft until the belt deflects approximately 3/8" when proper tension is achieved.
Tighten the four Phillips head screws and replace the motor cap.
- Caution: Overtightening the belt can damage the motor or bearings.

Bearing and Set Screw Maintenance:

Set Screws: Tighten all set screws (motor pulley, shaft pulley, auger, bottom bearing) after every 60 hours of use.
Top Bearing: Grease after every 60 hours of use with a good quality multipurpose grease.
Bottom Bearing: Grease after every 8 hours of use with a good quality multipurpose grease, due to the harsh environment.

Recycling:

At the end of its useful life, the majority of components (steel) can be recycled. Gear oil must be disposed of according to local regulations. Plastic parts should be disposed of in a customary manner.