Alamo Switchblade Sickle Bar 5 - Manual (Page 93)

OPERATION
SB5/6 03/09 Operation Section 3-19
© 2009 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERA
T
ION
7.5 Operating the Switch Blade
Only operate the unit from the tractor operator’s seat with the seatbelt securely fastened on a ROPS or cab
equipped tractor. The unit is designed for roadside mowing of grass and small weeds. Sharp blades will
produce a cleaner cut and require less power. Travel at a speed that allows the mower sufficient time to cut
through the vegetation and maintain operating speed to prevent overloading the unit and tractor. Choose a
driving pattern that provides the maximum pass length and minimizes turning. Stay alert and watch for trees,
low hanging limbs, power lines, and other overhead obstacles and solid ground objects while you are
operating.
Avoid mowing in the reverse direction. If the mower must be backed to access an area to cut, make sure
there are no persons or other foreign debris behind the tractor and unit before mowing in reverse. When
mowing in reverse, operate the tractor and unit at a reduced ground speed to ensure control of the tractor and
unit is maintained.
Operators should be aware that sickle bar mowers are precision cutting machines. They are designed to cut
like a pair of fine shears but are subjected to the roadside punishment of a bulldozer!
If the mower is not cutting properly, the operator must be prepared to make on-the-job adjustments to assure
good cutting and avoid costly repairs. Keep a grease gun, oil can, heavy hammer, screw driver, and proper
size wrenches on the tractor at all times. Since most of the day-to-day problems originate in the cutterbar,
operators should keep the cutterbar in adjustment and make sure that the knife is sharp. Refer to the service
instructions for specific adjustments and information.
To save time, it is recommended that spare knives and rockguards be carried on the tractor for replacement
on the job.
Follow the daily lubrication procedures given in the service instructions. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight.
A carefully adjusted and maintained mower will make the job easier and reward you with outstanding
performance, long life, and reduced maintenance.OPS-SB- 0007
Never leave the mower unattended while the head is in the raised
position. The mower could fall causing serious injury to anyone who
might inadvertently be under the mower.
(SSM-4)
Do not operate Mower if excessive vibration exists. In the case of extreme vibration, shut
down the Mower and the Tractor engine and wait until all motion has stopped. Inspect the
Mower to determine the source of the vibration. If any Mower blades are missing or
damaged replace them immediately. Operating the Mower with excessive vibration can
result in component failure and broken objects could be thrown outward. To reduce the
possibility of property damage and personal injury, never allow the Mower to be operated
with excessive vibration.
(SSM-3)
Maintain adequate tractor stability to prevent lateral instability and
possible tip-over which could result in serious bodily injury or even
death. Widen the wheel tread and add wheel weights where necessary.
Refer to the mounting instructions or call Customer Service if you need
assistance with Couterweight Procedure.
(SSM-2)