LeeBoy 685D - Articulation; Steering

Steering
Steering a six-wheeled motor grader may seem a
little complex for inexperienced operators, but skilled
operators know the extra wheels can boost efciency
and productivity in all applications. An option for
secondary steering is also available.
Keep the tires properly inated to get
the best results. Over-inated tires result in less
traction between the tire and road surface. Air-
pressure differences in the rear tires can cause tire
slippage and grader bucking.
Operators steer the grader using a traditional steering
wheel. It is important to make slow turns to maintain
stability, especially for new operators. All operators
should become comfortable with driving and steering
the motor grader before operating at a work site.
The LeeBoy 685D Motor Grader has an articulated
frame, which means the front “boom” portion of the
machine can pivot left and right, adding exibility and
maneuverability for many applications. (Figure 4-29)
The front wheels can also be leaned in the direction of
the turn for more steering assistance in tight turns and
grading techniques. (Page 4-22)
Articulate
Left
Articulate
Right
Figure 4-29. Articulation
Articulation
Articulating into turns gives the shortest turn radius
for close-quarter work, cul-de-sacs and corners.
Articulation also provides more control, maneuverability
and safety when operating in tight quarters, and
counters side draft when making a heavy cutting pass
or grading wet ditches. Experienced operators also use
articulation techniques to maintain a straight path when
working with a windrow or lessen the blade load without
using the circle.
The articulation angle can affect the stability of the
machine. Efcient and safe articulation requires skill and
experience to take advantage of its full capabilities.
Use articulation ONLY in WORK GEAR.
Articulation can adversely affect machine stability,
therefore, DO NOT articulate in Travel gear.
Other uses for articulation include:
Counteracting Side Loads: You can counteract side
draft when making a heavy cutting pass by articulating
the back frame toward the toe of the moldboard.
Reducing Blade Loads: Articulate the back frame
toward the heel of the moldboard to reduce blade loads
without “circling” the blade under the load or where
maximum circle torque has been reached. This reduces
the width of cut and the load.
Use the articulate lever on the steering control column
to articulate left or right (Figure 4-30):
• To articulate to the left, push the articulate lever
forward.
• To articulate to the right, pull the articulate lever back.
Articulate Lever
Figure 4-30. Articulate Lever
Operation
LeeBoy 685D Motor Grader4-20