Ground Hog T-4 - INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION
It is your responsibility as the operator of this piece of equipment to know what
specific requirements, precautions and work hazards exist. You must read and
understand all of the information contained in the operators manual.
The Ground Hog model T-4 trencher is a small, operator propelled, chain-type
trencher designed for the installation of lines that require a narrow shallow trench.
The T-4 trencher has more than enough power to trench through the toughest soils,
however, because of its small size, low horse power and trenching capacity, it is limited
in what it is capable of doing. The job site, soil conditions, job specifications and
operator experience may dictate that a different tool or method be used to do the job.
The digging chain of any trencher has a tendency to pull the trencher in the opposite
direction you want to dig. For this reason, be sure that the digging teeth are not in
contact with the ground or other objects while starting the engine and that the wheel
lock device engages before lowering the digging bar into the ground. Be sure that you
have a firm grip on the machine and are ready to control it when the digging bar comes
in contact with the ground.
Trenchers of all type have a tendency to “hop” or “buck” under certain conditions. This
can be the result of certain soil conditions or buried objects that the trencher cannot cut
through or lift to the surface. The trencher must be stopped and the object removed, or
restart the trench beyond the object.
NOTE: It is important that any piece of machinery be kept in the best mechanical
condition possible. Failure to properly maintain machinery greatly reduces the
productivity of the tool and could create a hazard to the operator or bystanders. DO
NOT use machinery if it has been modified or improperly maintained.
Page 3
®
T-4