• Working with unfamiliar equipment can lead to careless injuries. Read this manual, and the
manual of your tractor, before assembly or operating, to acquaint yourself with the machines.
If this machine is used by any person other than yourself, or is loaned or rented, it is the
ditcher owner’s responsibility to make certain that the operator, prior to operating:
1. Reads and understands the operator’s manual.
2. Is instructed in safe and proper use.
• Know your controls and how to stop tractor, engine, and ditcher quickly in an emergency.
Read this manual and the one provided with your tractor.
• Train all new personnel and review instructions frequently with existing workers. Be certain
only properly trained and physically able person will operate the ditcher. A person who has
not read and understood all operating and safety instructions is not qualified to operate the
machine. An untrained operator exposes himself and bystanders to possible serious injury
or death. If the elderly are assisting with farm work, their physical limitations need to be
recognized and accommodated.
TRANSPORTING
• Comply with all federal, state, and local laws for implement transport on public roads.
• At all times, when driving the tractor and equipment on the road or highway under 20 mph
(32 kph) use flashing amber warning lights and a slow moving vehicle (SMA) identification
emblem and appropriate lighting to meet local regulations. Avoid transporting at night or low
light conditions. Do not exceed 20 mph (32 kph). Reduce speed on rough roads and surfaces.
• Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Turn curves or go up and down hills at a low speed and at a gradual steering angle. Make
certain that at least 20% of the tractors weight is on the front wheels to maintain safe steerage.
Slow down on rough or uneven surfaces.
• Never allow riders on either tractor or ditcher.
• Make sure that the brake pedal latch is engaged. You must lock brake pedals together for
road travel.
• Slow down and signal before turning.
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