Alamo Eagle 20 - Manual (Page 111)

OPERATION
Eagle 20 03/09 Operation Section 4-11
© 2009 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERA
T
ION
5.2 Connecting Mower Hydraulic Lines to the Tractor
With the tractor shut down and secured in position, relieve hydraulic pressure from the tractor by moving the
control levers back and forth several times or placing the levers in the float position.
When connecting the mower hydraulic lines, keep hoses, quick couplers, and swivels free of contamination.
Never leave a disconnected hose end open and cap the tractor hydraulic outlet ports when not in use. If the
tractor ports or mower hydraulic hose ends become contaminated, wipe clean with a rag before connecting.
Operating Mower Hydraulics with Three Tractor Hydraulic Ports
Connect one hose into each hydraulic port. Connect lines to correspond with position of hydraulic control
levers.
Operating Mower Hydraulics with Two Tractor Hydraulic Ports
The lines that operate the wings must be plumbed together and will be controlled using one hydraulic control
valve and the center section with the remaining control valve. Ensure that the operator is aware that each wing
cannot be controlled independently nor will they raise and lower simultaneously.
Operating the Mower Hydraulics with a 3-Spool Hydraulic Control Valve (Extra Equipment)
Ensure the valve matches the hydraulic operating system of the tractor (open or closed center). Refer to the
Assembly Section for additional information on equipping the tractor with a 3-spool control valve.
Mount the valve bank to a tractor fender or other accessible location. Connect valve bank inlet and outlet lines
to outlets of the same tractor hydraulic port. Connect the mower hydraulics to the control valve bank with the
center section line to the right port. Connect the wing cylinder lines to the control valve positioned to
correspond with the left and right wing.
Safety Tow Chain
If the mower is towed on a public roadway, a safety chain with tensile strength equal to or greater than the
gross weight of the mower must be connected between the tractor and mower. This will help control the
implement in the event the tongue becomes disconnected from the drawbar. Make sure the chain is attached
to a secure location on the tractor and not to an intermediate support.
After connecting both ends of the safety chain, drive the tractor to the right and left to check for proper chain
length. Adjust length as necessary and allow only enough slack in the chain to make a maximum turn in both
directions. When not in use, store the safety chain to protect it from mud or standing water by wrapping the
chain around the tongue. Replace the safety chain if one ore more links or end fittings are broken, stretched or
otherwise damaged or deformed. OPS-U-0039