The Protea Sod Cutter Model 460 is a robust piece of turf equipment designed for efficiently cutting and removing sod. Manufactured by Protea Turf Equipment, a company specializing in industrial lawnmowers, scarifiers, and sodcutters, this machine is built for demanding use in various soil conditions.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Protea Sod Cutter Model 460 is to cut sod cleanly and precisely. It operates by engaging a cutter bar that oscillates, allowing the blade to dig into the earth as the machine moves forward. The sod cutter is designed to be lifted by its handle, and the depth of cut can be adjusted to suit different requirements. Once the motor is running at approximately 2000 revolutions per minute, the cutter bar and drive wheels are engaged, and the machine is slowly lowered onto the grass. At the end of a run, both the cutter and drive are disengaged, and the blade is lifted clear of the ground. The blade's adjustability for hard, soft, and normal (center position) soil conditions ensures versatility across different terrains.

Important Technical Specifications:

Engines:
- Honda GX240HX (8HP) Petrol, driven with a 6:1 reduction gear box.
- Kohler CH395 (9HP) Petrol, driven with a 6:1 reduction gear box.
Adjustments:
- Blade depth of cut: Adjustable via a pin-in-hole mechanism.
- "V" Belts: Adjustable using jacking bolts/sliding bearings.
Cutting Dimensions:
- Width of cut: 460mm (18 inch).
- Cutting Depth: 6-100mm (1/4 – 4 inch).
Transmission:
- Three (3) "V" Belts to the crank arm.
- Three (3) V Belts to the drive rollers.
- One (1) "V" Belt from the motor to the counter shaft.
Bearings: Selected ball and pillar block bearings.
Cutting Blade: Heavy-duty, precision-machined, high-tensile, hardened, and tempered material.
Estimated Cutting Time: Approximately 1500-2000 square meters per day, depending on soil condition.

Usage Features:

Controls: Users should familiarize themselves with the controls and the owner's manual to understand how to operate the engine and stop it quickly in an emergency.
Pre-Operation Checks: Before starting, the lawn must be cleared of debris like sticks, stones, and wire, which could be thrown by the blade. A visual inspection of blade bolts and the cutter assembly is crucial to ensure they are not worn or damaged, as damaged components pose a major hazard.
Starting Procedure: The engine is started using the choke and throttle lever. Blade and drive clutches must be disengaged before starting, and feet should be kept well away from the blades.
Safety Precautions:
- Never operate the mower unattended.
- Stop the engine before pushing the mower across gravel drives, walks, or roads.
- Only authorized and familiar personnel should operate the mower.
- Exercise extreme caution on slopes or wet grass to maintain footing.
- Avoid pulling the mower towards oneself while cutting.
- Do not operate in confined spaces where exhaust fumes can accumulate.
- Wear suitable eye protection.
- Turn off the fuel and reduce the throttle setting after use.
- Store fuel in a cool place in a specifically designed container.
- Never pick up or carry the mower while it is operating.
Fueling: Fuel should be added before starting the engine, avoiding spills and never filling the tank while the engine is running or while smoking.
Personal Safety: Do not mow barefoot or in open sandals; wear long trousers and heavy shoes. Keep people, especially children or pets, out of the mowing area.
Guards: The mower should never be used unless the grass catcher or manufacturer-provided guards are in position.
Engine Speed: Do not over-speed the engine or alter governor settings, as excessive speed is dangerous and shortens mower life.

Maintenance Features:

Belt Adjustment: Drive belts must be kept firmly adjusted using the adjustable tensioning screws. The camshaft V belt (3602060 / 3602061) tension is particularly important and should be maintained at all times. If tension slackens, the camshaft (120200) should be dropped downwards into the next slotted hole on both sides, with finer adjustments made using the adjuster screw (120153) on the tensioner assembly.
Lubrication:
- Grease the countershaft every three (3) months.
- Grease wheel bearings every six (6) months.
- Grease conrod bushes (120223) and bearings (1124440) daily.
Fastener Checks: Regularly check the machine for loose nuts, bolts, and screws to ensure it remains in a safe operating condition.
Blade Maintenance: The turf cutter blade should be re-ground on the top and sides to sharpen it.
Parts Replacement: Use only replacement parts made and guaranteed by the original manufacturer to maintain safety and performance.
Maintenance Intervals: Operating conditions should be considered when determining specific maintenance intervals.

The Protea Sod Cutter Model 460 is designed for durability and ease of use, providing efficient sod cutting capabilities for professional and industrial applications.

PROTEA 460 - Front Wheel Assembly

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