Howard ROTAVATOR 200 - User Manual

ROTAVATOR 200
R 200
Operating Instructions

Summary

Operating Instructions

Introduction and Machine Information

Introduction

Welcome, purpose, and recommendation to read the manual.

Warranty and Serial Number

Details on warranty coverage and recording machine serial number.

Safety Precautions

Safety Responsibility

Emphasizes operator responsibility and necessary training for safe operation.

Safety Decal Management

Instructions on maintaining legibility and applying safety decals.

Attaching Safety Decals

Step-by-step guide for proper application of safety decals.

Operation Guidelines

At All Times

Rules for constant adherence during operation and general use.

Before Operation

Essential checks and preparations before starting the Rotavator.

During Operation

Guidelines for safe practices while the Rotavator is in use.

Post-Operation and Safety Procedures

Following Operation

Checks and actions immediately after operating the Rotavator.

Storage Safety

Procedures for safely storing the Rotavator when not in use.

Maintenance Safety

Crucial safety rules for performing maintenance and repairs.

Transport Safety

Requirements for safely transporting the Rotavator on public roads.

Machine Suitability and Operator Information

Machine Suitability to Application

Guidance on matching the machine to specific applications and intended use.

Authorised Operators and Training

Requirements for operator authorization, training, and record-keeping.

Maintenance Records

Importance of documenting maintenance and inspections for safety and operation.

Critical Warnings and Components

Never Perform These Actions

List of critical actions that must never be performed with the Rotavator.

Safe Operator Awareness

Encourages proactive thinking and awareness for operator safety.

PTO Drive Shaft Guard Safety

Importance, maintenance, and safe handling of PTO drive shaft guards.

Description and New Machine Setup

Description of Components

Identifies and names key assemblies and parts of the Rotavator.

New Machine Preparation

Steps for initial setup, lubrication, and checks for a new machine.

Attachment and Adjustment Procedures

Attaching Rotavator to Tractor

Detailed instructions for connecting the Rotavator to the tractor.

Depth Control Adjustment

How to adjust the depth control skids for desired tillage depth.

Rotor and Blades

Information on rotor blade types, installation, and maintenance.

Lubrication and Operating Instructions

Lubrication and Maintenance Schedule

Daily, weekly, and hourly maintenance tasks and lubrication points.

Operating Instructions

Guidance on setting up for different tilths and performing the operation.

Operational Advice and Techniques

Operational Advice

Solutions for common operational problems like insufficient depth or poor tilth.

Rotavating Techniques

Recommended practices and tips for effective rotavating.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The document describes the Howard Rotavator 200, a tractor-driven ground cultivator designed for various tillage operations.

Function Description

The Rotavator 200 is primarily intended for ground cultivation, including primary and secondary tillage, weed control, and incorporating material into most soil types. It is designed to be driven by a tractor's Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft, which transmits power to the Rotavator's gearbox. The gearbox then transfers power via a side chain or gear train to the rotor, which is equipped with blades that cultivate the soil. An overload clutch provides protection for the transmission system.

Important Technical Specifications

The Rotavator 200 series includes several models, each with specific working widths, transport widths, and blade configurations, suitable for different tractor engine powers:

• R200B-085:
  • Working width: 85 cm
  • Transport width: 102 cm
  • Weight: 132 kg
  • Number of blades: 16
  • Tractor engine HP: 12-20
• R200B-105:
  • Working width: 105 cm
  • Transport width: 122 cm
  • Weight: 145 kg
  • Number of blades: 20
  • Tractor engine HP: 14-20
• R200B-125:
  • Working width: 125 cm
  • Transport width: 142 cm
  • Weight: 160 kg
  • Number of blades: 24
  • Tractor engine HP: 16-25

All models operate with a rotor speed of 230 rpm and are designed for tractors with Cat I and II linkage, driven by a 540 rpm PTO shaft. The normal tillage depth ranges from 5 to 18 cm, regulated by depth control skids. The gearcase (main gearbox) has a capacity of 1 liter of SAE 90 oil, and the side drive gearcase also requires 1 liter of SAE 90 oil. The Rotavator is fitted with original HOWARD BLADES model 9941/42, which are designed to form a "scroll" pattern to ensure regular soil entry and even out the load on the transmission.

Usage Features

The Rotavator 200 offers several usage features to optimize cultivation:

• Depth Control: Tillage depth (5-18 cm) is regulated by adjustable depth control skids. Adjusting these skids allows operators to achieve the desired working depth.
• Tilth Control: The Rotavator can produce a range of tilths (soil fineness) through simple adjustments:
  • Fine Tilths: Achieved by combining slow tractor speeds and a lowered trailing board.
  • Coarse Tilths: Achieved by faster tractor speeds and a raised trailing board.
  • Intermediate Grades: Obtained by adjusting the pressure on the trailing board, which shatters blade-cut clods, or by increasing/decreasing tractor speed.
• Trailing Board Functionality:
  • A raised trailing board helps deposit weeds and trash on the surface to wither.
  • A completely pressured trailing board buries trash and provides a leveling effect on the soil.
• Offset Mounting: All models have dual mounting positions (central or offset to the right), allowing for flexibility in operation. Offset mounting is achieved by repositioning the lower link mounting brackets.
• PTO Drive Shaft: The PTO drive shaft must be set to a safe working length, ensuring minimum engagement (150 mm or 6 inches) of the male half into the female tube and preventing "bottoming out" or separation during use and transport. The maximum PTO drive shaft angle must not exceed 40°.
• Blade Replacement: When replacing worn blades, it is recommended to remove one blade and fit the new one before proceeding to the next to maintain the correct "scroll" pattern.
• Operational Advice: The manual provides troubleshooting tips for common issues such as insufficient depth, tilth too fine/coarse, blades "balling up" with soil, excessive blade wear, and "bumping" on the ground. It also advises on working practices, such as working in "lands" and ensuring the rotavated ground is always to the right of the driver.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the Rotavator 200:

• Lubrication:
  • Daily: Lubricate PTO spiders and the right-hand stub axle bearing with a grease gun.
  • Weekly: Top up the gearbox and side drive gearcase with SAE 90 oil.
  • Every 500 Working Hours: Drain, flush, and refill both the gearbox and side drive gearcase with SAE 90 oil.
• Fastener Tightening: All nuts and bolts should be tightened initially and re-tightened after the first hour of work. Fasteners should be checked weekly.
• PTO Shaft Guards: PTO drive shaft guards must be correctly fitted, well-maintained, undamaged, and rotate freely. Restraining chains must be attached to both the tractor and implement. Damaged guards must be replaced immediately.
• General Inspection:
  • Visually inspect the Rotavator daily for loose bolts, excessive wear, cracks, or other defects.
  • Check that all guards, covers, warning labels, and safety devices are correctly fitted and operative.
  • Ensure no tools or unsecured items are left on the Rotavator before operation.
• Cool-down Period: Allow the Rotavator sufficient time to cool down before performing any maintenance or changing gears, as oil and transmission components can become hot enough to cause burns.
• Safety Decals: Keep safety decals clean and legible. Replace any missing or illegible decals.
• Storage: Store the Rotavator in a dry, level area away from human activity, ensuring parkstands and wheels/roller are securely positioned to prevent tipping or rolling.

The manual emphasizes safety throughout, instructing operators to read and understand the manual, wear appropriate protective clothing, keep bystanders clear, and never attempt adjustments or repairs while the machine is operating or blades are rotating. It also highlights the importance of proper training for operators and adherence to transport safety regulations.

Howard ROTAVATOR 200 Specifications

General

Brand	Howard
Model	ROTAVATOR 200
Category	Rotavators
Language	English