RITE-HITE PitMaster II

To Next Page

Document Name: PMII0001

Manual Part #: 39500163

Publication: AMEN00401 2021-04-02

PitMaster™ II

Under-leveler Seal

Installation/Service/Owner's Manual

Language: English

NOTICE TO USER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

SAFETY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

INSTALLATION

Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3ply Top Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Side Seals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Main Curtain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Filler Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Trim Main Curtain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

PARTS

PitMaster II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Main Page

Need help?

Do you have a question about the RITE-HITE PitMaster II and is the answer not in the manual?

The Rite-Hite PitMaster™ II Under-leveler Seal is designed to enhance energy efficiency, maintain pit cleanliness, and reduce contaminants entering a facility by sealing gaps beneath and around a dock leveler. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for its installation, operation, and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Function Description

The PitMaster II is an under-leveler seal system that creates a barrier against environmental elements and debris. It comprises a 3-ply top section, a main curtain, side seals, and filler panels, all designed to conform to various pit conditions and leveler understructures. The system effectively seals the gaps that typically exist beneath and around a dock leveler, preventing the infiltration of cold air, dust, insects, and other contaminants. Its flexible design allows it to adapt to the movement of the leveler, folding onto itself (accordion-fold) when the leveler is stored and extending to seal the pit when in operation. For high negative pressure environments, the main curtain's bottom flap can be secured to filler panel magnet brackets, preventing it from being pushed into the pit.

Important Technical Specifications

The PitMaster II is adaptable to most site conditions, including various leveler understructures and toe guard configurations. The main curtain features three layers of looped fabric at its base, which can be trimmed to fit around most leveler understructures. It also incorporates flexible HMWPE (High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) panels, allowing it to conform to different pit conditions. The width of the main curtain and top section is designed to fit between the leveler's toe guards, with provisions for trimming if necessary. Side seals are available in 16 in (406 mm), 24 in (610 mm), or 34 in (854 mm) heights and can be trimmed to fit the pit depth. Filler panels can be trimmed to accommodate obstructions like conduit or pipes, with adjustable magnets for secure attachment. The system is reinforced to withstand normal contact with safety legs, end load legs, and other leveler components without significant wear or damage.

Usage Features

Adaptability: The PitMaster II is engineered to adapt to a wide range of dock leveler models and pit configurations. It can be trimmed in the field to fit around lip pistons, lip stop bolts, pull chains, and other obstacles.
Easy Installation: The installation process involves aligning the 3-ply top section, attaching spring clips to the leveler plate or stringers, and then securing the top section. Side seals are anchored to the pit walls, and the main curtain attaches to the top section via hook and loop fasteners. Filler panels are attached with magnets and can be trimmed to fit.
Operational Flexibility: Shock cords are used to manage the main curtain's position. During installation/maintenance, shock cords hold the curtain out of the way. In operation, they position the curtain to seal the pit effectively. The system is designed to fold smoothly with the leveler's movement, ensuring continuous sealing.
High Negative Pressure Applications: For buildings experiencing high negative pressure, the main curtain's bottom flap can be attached to filler panel magnet brackets, preventing it from being pushed into the pit and maintaining the seal's integrity.
Non-Standard Leveler Compatibility: While primarily designed for Rite-Hite levelers, the PitMaster II can be adapted to some cantilever docks and self-standing frame applications, requiring consultation with Rite-Hite Applications. It is not compatible with competitive models featuring auto-retracting toeguards.

Maintenance Features

Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, all parts of the PitMaster II should be inspected for damage. Any damaged components must be repaired or replaced as required to ensure proper function and safety.
Cleaning: The seal can be cleaned with a low-pressure hose or a damp cloth and mild detergent. Regular cleaning helps maintain the material's integrity and appearance.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section to address common issues such as sagging curtains, improper sealing, or interference with leveler components. Solutions range from re-attaching fasteners and adjusting spring clips to trimming components or replacing damaged parts.
Part Replacement: All components, including the 3-ply top section, main curtain, shock cords, side seals, filler panels, and hardware, are available for replacement. This ensures the longevity and continued effectiveness of the PitMaster II system.
Planned Maintenance Program (P.M.P.): Rite-Hite recommends a customized P.M.P. for optimal performance. Authorized Rite-Hite representatives or technical support can be contacted for P.M.P. services.

The PitMaster II is a robust and adaptable solution for improving environmental control and cleanliness at loading docks, backed by a limited product warranty covering mechanical and electrical parts, as well as labor, for one year.