The document provided is an Operator's Manual for the Tigercat X870C/LX870C Feller Buncher. This manual, identified as Issue 3.1, May 2008, serves as a comprehensive guide for the safe and proper operation, maintenance, and understanding of these heavy-duty forestry machines.
Function Description
The Tigercat X870C/LX870C Feller Buncher is a specialized forestry machine designed for felling trees. A "feller buncher" is a type of harvester that cuts down trees (fells) and then gathers them into bunches, making subsequent processing or transport more efficient. The "X870C" and "LX870C" designations likely refer to different configurations or models within the 870C series, with the "L" potentially indicating a "Levelling" feller buncher, which is designed to operate on sloped terrain by maintaining a level cab and upper structure. The core function of these machines involves using a high-speed disc saw head to rapidly cut trees at their base, followed by manipulating and accumulating the felled trees into manageable bunches. This process is crucial in modern logging operations for increasing productivity and reducing manual labor.
Important Technical Specifications
While detailed specifications like engine power, weight, or cutting capacity are not explicitly listed in the provided excerpts, the manual does offer critical information regarding the machine's structural integrity and safety standards.
Serial Numbers:
The manual specifies the applicable serial number ranges for the machines covered:
- X870C: 87061701 TO 87062100
- LX870C: 87071701 TO 87072100
A key note explains that the 4th digit in the serial number indicates the machine model type (6 for Feller Buncher, 7 for Levelling Feller Buncher). For simplicity, the manual uses an asterisk (870*1701 TO 870*2100) to denote that both types are covered.
Safety Standards and Operator Enclosure:
A prominent "NOTICE OF CERTIFICATION" section details the rigorous safety standards met by the operator enclosure:
- Designated Use: The enclosure is designed for use on all Tigercat 800 Series machines with a maximum operating mass of 42200 Kg (93000 lb). This indicates the substantial size and weight class of the feller bunchers.
- Compliance Standards:
- Oregon OSHA 437-007-0775:14a (TOPS): Tip-Over Protection Structures. This ensures the operator is protected in the event of a machine rollover.
- ISO 8084: 1993 (OPS): Operator Protection Structures. This standard focuses on protecting the operator from various hazards within the operating environment.
- ISO 8083: 1989 (FOPS): Falling Objects Protection Structures. This guarantees protection against objects falling onto the operator's cab, such as tree limbs or debris.
- ISO 3411: 1995
- ISO 2867: 1994
- SAE J1356: FEB 1988
- Oregon OSHA 437-007-0775: 14b,c
The manual explicitly states that the integrity of these structures (TOPS, FOPS, OPS) is paramount, and any unauthorized modifications will void the certification and compromise safety. The operator's cab, its mounting, and the chassis are considered integral parts of these protective structures.
Electrical System:
A highlighted "IMPORTANT" section on the first page indicates a 24 VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. This is a common voltage for heavy machinery, providing sufficient power for various electrical components and systems.
Usage Features
The manual emphasizes safe and proper operation, suggesting several key usage features and considerations:
- High-Speed Disc Saws: The machines utilize high-speed disc saws for felling, a feature that contributes to efficiency but also necessitates strict safety protocols. A dedicated section, "USING HIGH SPEED DISC SAWS SAFELY," underscores this.
- Controls and Operation: The manual includes a section on "CONTROLS AND OPERATION," indicating that it provides detailed instructions on how to manipulate the machine's various functions, including driving, boom articulation, and saw head operation.
- Operator's Manual Content: The operator's manual is designed to assist with "techniques of proper and safe operation" and contains "important information regarding the safe operation of the saw head." This suggests a focus on best practices for maximizing productivity while minimizing risk.
- Levelling Capability (LX870C): For the LX870C model, the "Levelling Feller Buncher" designation implies advanced hydraulic systems that allow the operator's cab and upper structure to remain level even when the machine is operating on steep slopes. This significantly improves operator comfort, visibility, and machine stability in challenging terrain.
Maintenance Features
The manual outlines several aspects related to the maintenance and servicing of the Tigercat X870C/LX870C Feller Buncher:
- Preventive Maintenance Schedule: The service manual, which complements the operator's manual, contains a "preventive maintenance schedule to ensure optimum machine performance." This highlights the importance of regular, scheduled maintenance to prolong the machine's lifespan and maintain efficiency.
- Lubrication and Maintenance Section: The operator's manual itself includes a section dedicated to "LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE," providing guidance on routine checks, lubrication points, and minor adjustments that operators can perform.
- Available Literature: Tigercat provides a suite of documents to support maintenance and repair:
- Operator's Manual, English (Part No. 30649A): This document, which is the subject of the provided excerpts, covers daily operational and basic maintenance procedures.
- Service Manual, English (Part No. 30650A): This manual contains detailed servicing procedures, troubleshooting guides, and more in-depth repair instructions.
- Parts Catalog (Part No. 30651A): Essential for identifying and ordering correct replacement parts.
- Unauthorized Modifications and Repairs: The manual strongly cautions against "NON-APPROVED FIELD PRODUCT CHANGES" and "unauthorized modifications and/or repairs." It states that such actions can create dangerous situations, void warranties, and compromise the machine's integrity and safety certifications. Tigercat emphasizes that only modifications or repairs approved in writing by the Tigercat Engineering Manager or officially released by Tigercat are permissible. This strict policy underscores the manufacturer's commitment to safety and the precise engineering of their machines.
- Structural Integrity: The manual explicitly states that if a permanent deflection of the TOPS, FOPS, or OPS structure occurs, it "no longer provide[s] the original designed level of protection and should be replaced." Attempts to straighten the structure, especially with heat, are discouraged as they can further reduce its protective capability. This highlights the critical importance of structural integrity for operator safety and mandates professional repair or replacement in case of damage.
- Contact for Information: Operators are advised to contact their Tigercat dealer for appropriate information regarding improvements not yet covered in the manual or for discrepancies related to the machine's build date and manual release date. Tigercat Industries Inc. also provides contact information (Tel: (519) 442-1000, Fax: (519) 442-1855) for support.
In summary, the Tigercat X870C/LX870C Feller Buncher is a robust, purpose-built forestry machine designed for efficient tree felling and bunching, with a paramount focus on operator safety, structural integrity, and adherence to international safety standards. Its operation and maintenance are supported by comprehensive documentation and a strict policy against unauthorized modifications to ensure optimal performance and safety throughout its operational life.
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