DR Power Towable Backhoe - Manual (Page 6)

6 DR ® TOWABLE BACKHOE
Towing
General Safety
• ALWAYS check before towing to make certain your backhoe is correctly and securely attached to the towing vehicle. Be sure
that the ball hitch you are using is the proper size for the hitch coupler on the backhoe. Be sure the safety chains are properly
hooked to the vehicle leaving enough slack for turning.
•
ALWAYS install the swing and boom transport hitch pins and lynch pins before transporting the backhoe.
• ALWAYS use accessory lights and devices when transporting on a road or highway to warn operators of other vehicles. Check
your local government regulations for DOT information.
•
ALWAYS allow for added length of the backhoe when turning, parking, crossing intersections, and in all driving situations.
•
ALWAYS be careful when backing up. You could jackknife your backhoe if care is not taken.
• NEVER exceed 45 mph. when towing your backhoe. Obey all state and local regulations when towing on state and local roads
and highways. Adjust your speed for terrain and conditions, as needed. Be extra cautious when towing over rough terrain,
especially over a railroad crossing.
• NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your backhoe.
• NEVER carry any cargo on your backhoe.
•
Do travel slowly over rough terrain, on hillsides, and around curves to prevent tipping.
•
Do not tow the backhoe near the edge of a ditch or excavation.
Operating this backhoe safely is necessary to prevent or minimize the risk of death or serious injury. Unsafe operation can create
a number of hazards for you. Always take the following precautions when operating this backhoe:
•
Your backhoe is a powerful tool, not a plaything. Exercise extreme caution at all times. The machine is designed to dig. Do
not use it for any other purpose.
•
Know how to stop the backhoe quickly; see “stopping the engine” in chapter 4.
• Operate this machine on a level surface only. Never operate your unit on a slippery, wet, muddy, or icy surface. Exercise
caution to avoid slipping or falling.
•
Never dig with the backhoe unless the stabilizers are properly set or the Backhoe could tip forward.
• Be sure the area is clear of underground obstructions. Call “811” before you dig.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by DR
Power Equipment.
•
Never use the machine without ensuring that all guards and shields are in place.
• Never, under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the backhoe. This includes all
shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and will void your
warranty.
•
Always operate the backhoe from the operator seat only.
• Allow only one person to operate the backhoe at any time.
•
Do not dig under the stabilizers. Soft ground or sandy soil can cause cave-ins.
•
Do not use the backhoe bucket as a battering ram.
•
Always lower the bucket to the ground before leaving the operator’s seat.
• Never leave the backhoe with the engine running. Stop the engine by turning the ignition switch to “off”.
•
Use the steps provided when climbing on or off the backhoe to prevent slipping.
•
If the machine should start making an unusual noise or vibration, shut down the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire,
keeping it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting, wait 5 minutes, then inspect for damage. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble. Check for damaged parts and clean, repair and/or replace as necessary.
•
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.