Montana 100 - User Manual

This document serves as an operator's, installation, and parts manual for the Montana Model 100 Loader, including the basic loader, quick attach toolbar, and a 66" bucket, applicable for serial numbers 1001 and later. It provides comprehensive instructions and safety information for the proper and safe use, assembly, and maintenance of the equipment.

Function Description

The Montana Model 100 Loader is designed for farm-type operations such as removal, barn and feedlot cleaning, light commercial or light grading, and digging. It is explicitly stated that its design is NOT intended for commercial and/or industrial use. The loader is a front-end attachment for tractors, utilizing the tractor's hydraulic system for operation. It consists of a base loader assembly, a quick attach toolbar, and a 66-inch bucket. The quick attach toolbar allows for easy attachment and removal of the bucket or other compatible implements. The loader's primary function is to lift, carry, and dump materials, facilitating various agricultural and light-duty tasks.

Usage Features

The manual emphasizes several key usage features and safety precautions for operating the Montana Model 100 Loader:

Safety Information: The document begins with a "Safety Alert Symbol" to draw attention to critical safety instructions. It defines DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION levels to indicate the severity of potential hazards. A general warning advises that anyone operating or working around the loader should read the manual first.

Important Safety Precautions:

• Tractor and Loader Integration: Operators must read both the tractor and loader manuals for safe operation. It is recommended that the tractor be equipped with a Rollover Protective System (ROPS) and that the seat belt be used during all loader operations.
• Stability: Adding wheel ballast or front weight to the tractor is crucial for stability. Wheels should be moved to the widest recommended settings. Using a tractor with a wide front axle is preferred over tricycle front wheels for better stability.
• Operating Speed: The tractor and loader should always be moved and turned at low speeds. Loads should be carried as low as possible to maintain adequate visibility and ground clearance.
• Pre-Operation Checks: Before operating, ensure the loader is rigidly attached to the tractor. Know all controls for both the tractor and loader, and learn how to stop them quickly in an emergency.
• Weight Management: Adequate rear weight and/or wheel ballast must always be provided to counterbalance the loader. The total vehicle weight (including loader and counterweights) must not exceed the ROPS certificate for gross vehicle weight.
• Environmental Awareness: Be sure the work area is clear of overhead or underground utility hazards. Watch for overhead wires and avoid contact with any part of the loader. Position a barricade around the work area and keep all bystanders at a safe distance.
• Operator Position: Operate the loader only from the tractor operator's seat. Only one person should operate the loader at any time.
• Loader Usage Restrictions: Never allow a person to work under a raised bucket or lift a person with the loader. Do not use the loader as a battering ram; it is designed only for digging. Do not use the bucket to scrape or as a dozer blade unless it is tilted so that the bucket stops are in contact with the boom, and only for a limited amount of leveling if the loader valve has a float control. Never ride in the bucket.
• Parking Procedures: Always lower the loader bucket to the ground, shut off the engine, and apply the parking brake before getting off the unit or when not digging. Never leave the tractor unattended with the engine running.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE (eyes, ears, lung, head, hands, feet) when operating, servicing, or repairing equipment. Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.
• Slope Operation: Never drive a loader-equipped tractor down a hill steeper than 15 degrees. Use care on side hills.
• PTO Shaft: Always keep unused PTO shaft clutch levers disengaged.
• Hydraulic System: Be aware that hydraulic oil under pressure can cause injury. Ensure all connections are tight and relieve all pressure before disconnecting lines. Use cardboard or wood, not hands, to search for leaks. Seek medical attention immediately if injured by escaping fluid.

Transportation:

• Transport all loads at slow and safe speeds.
• Do not drive the tractor near the edge of a ditch or excavation.
• Always use accessory lights and devices when transporting on a road or highway to warn other vehicles. Check local government regulations.
• Ensure the SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) emblem is visible to the rear.

Operating Instructions (Removing and Mounting Loader): The manual provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for safely removing and mounting the loader from the tractor. Key steps include:

• Positioning the tractor and loader on firm, level ground.
• Lowering the bucket to the ground in the extended, dump position.
• Stopping the engine and setting the parking brake.
• Unfolding and securing the loader support legs.
• Relieving hydraulic pressure by cycling controls.
• Disconnecting and connecting hydraulic quick couplers, ensuring proper color-coded matching.
• Installing and securing loader arm lock pins.
• Crucial Warning: Never attempt to remove the loader unless the bucket is installed and resting on the ground. Do not operate the loader without the loader arm lock pins in place and secured, as the loader can fall off the tractor.

Installation and Removal of Attachments (Quick Attach Toolbar): The quick attach toolbar allows for efficient changing of attachments.

• Installation: Select a firm, level site. Rotate latch handles to the UNLATCHED position. Align the toolbar with the attachment, using tilt cylinders to guide the top edge under the attachment's upper lip. Tilt the toolbar rearward to capture the attachment. Engage toolbar lock pins.
• Removal: Lower the boom and tilt the toolbar plate forward until the attachment rests on the ground, relieving pressure on the lock pins. Disengage toolbar lock pins. Tilt the toolbar plate further forward while backing away.
• Safety Note: Keep bystanders 15 feet away during attachment installation or removal. DANGER: Before operating, ensure the attachment is secured to the loader quick attach toolbar coupling levers.

Maintenance Features

The manual outlines essential maintenance procedures to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the Montana Model 100 Loader:

General Maintenance:

• Pre-Maintenance Safety: Always lower the bucket or attachment to the ground, shut off the tractor engine, and relieve pressure in the hydraulic system before adjusting, lubricating, or servicing the loader.
• Inspections:
  • Inspect all pins and grease fittings before each use and lubricate with heavy-duty grease as indicated.
  • Periodically check all bolts for looseness and re-torque if necessary.
  • Inspect all hydraulic system hoses and fittings; replace if damaged.
  • Visually inspect the attachment toolbar plate to verify that the lock pins are fully engaged.
• Hydraulic System:
  • Ensure the hydraulic system remains sealed at all times to prevent contamination.
  • Check and maintain an adequate fluid level in the tractor reservoir prior to use.
  • Before storage, ensure all hydraulic cylinders are fully collapsed so that the rod is not exposed to the elements or damaged.
  • Do not change any loader relief valve settings, as they are factory set for optimal performance and safety.
  • Care must be taken with loader cylinders; nicks, scratches, rust, or other shaft damage can lead to worn packing, cylinder leakage, and subnormal performance.
• Decals: Replace any damaged or painted-over safety decals.
• Greasing: Do not oil, grease, or adjust the loader while it is in motion. Refer to the Service section for specific greasing details.

Adjustments and Inspection:

• Pin Tightness: Check pins that attach the loader to the tractor and all pivot pins for tightness several times daily. Replace any bent, broken, or missing parts.
• Disengagement: If the loader is to be disengaged from the tractor, ensure it is securely supported on a hard, level surface and the stand is engaged. Verify all connections between the tractor and loader are free before disengaging.

High-Pressure Fluids:

• Warning: Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin and cause serious injury. Stop the engine and relieve all pressure before disconnecting lines. Ensure all connections are tight and that lines, pipes, and hoses are undamaged. Use cardboard or wood, not hands, to search for leaks. Seek immediate medical attention if injured by escaping fluid.

Assembly Instructions: The manual provides detailed steps for assembling the base loader, bucket quick attach toolbar, and bucket level indicator, including:

• Using a hoist to raise the loader and remove shipping pallet components.
• Positioning the liftframe and uprights.
• Connecting hydraulic hoses by matching color-coded rings.
• Installing pivot pins and lock pins.
• Installing the bucket level rod weldment.

Parts Information: The manual includes comprehensive parts diagrams and identification listings for the base loader, hydraulic system, quick attach toolbar, and 66" quick attach bucket. This allows for easy identification and ordering of replacement parts.

Torque Specifications: Minimum hardware tightening torques are provided for both inch and metric hardware, categorized by SAE grade and metric grade, respectively. This ensures that fasteners are tightened to the correct specifications for safe and reliable operation. Always replace fasteners with the same grade as specified in the parts list and use the proper tools.

The manual concludes with a strong emphasis on safety, reminding operators to "MOVE SLOWLY," "USE COMMON SENSE," and "BE CAREFUL FOR YOUR OWN SAKE AND THAT OF OTHER PEOPLE."