Ensure that all bystanders are at least 50 feet (15.2 m) from the unit before operating this equipment. Wet soil conditions could carry the electrical charge over a greater distance.
Wet soil conditions or unseen obstructions, etc., could cause arcing which could travel several feet away from the unit causing possible electrical shock to bystanders. The tractor frame may become energized with electricity and electrical shock could occur to anyone that touches the tractor while standing on the ground.
Unless training someone, only one person, the operator, should be in the tractor while it is attached to The Weed Zapper and in operation.
Except for the monitor, all parts of The Weed Zapper, including the applicator booms, wings, shields, coulters, and cart should be considered dangerous and potentially lethal to touch at any time the tractor engine is running.
Do not text or talk on phone or use other electronic devices during operation.
When the machine is in field operation mode, wheels should remain locked in raised position.
Operator should always press RED/STOP switch before raising boom or boom wings from field operating position. Raising boom without doing this can cause arcing from ground coulters. Grounding coulters must maintain contact with ground during operation to prevent tractor tire damage and/or possible fire in ground cover debris.
Do not operate in fields with excessively dry crop or weed residue as an elevated fire hazard may exist in these conditions.
If front applicator boom mounting is temporarily not being utilized, then it may be necessary to install proper tractor front-end weights to provide adequate steering and stability.
Machine should only be operated by those who are trained, and safety practices informed.
The rate of speed on hillsides or curves should be regulated so there is no danger of overturning.
Do not drive too close to the edge of a ditch or creek. DO NOT operate near the edge of drop-offs or banks or on steep slopes as overturning may result.
Operate up and down (not across) intermediate slopes. Avoid sudden starts and stops.
Be especially observant of the operating area and terrain – watch for holes, rocks or other hidden hazards. Always inspect the area prior to operation.
Keep bystanders away from The Weed Zapper when lifting or lowering boom wings.
Do not attempt to operate tractor and The Weed Zapper unless you are in the driver’s seat.
Provide a first aid kit. Treat all scratches, cuts, etc., with proper antiseptic immediately.
Always permit parts that contain hot fluid to cool to a safe temperature before handling or disconnecting.
Check closely for overhead clearance while applicator boom wings are in raised position. Maintain a clearance of at least 10 ft. (3 m) between any part of the machine or load and any electrical lines or apparatus.
If in contact with overhead lines, do not leave machine. Contact emergency personnel immediately.
When in motion, always look ahead (or behind) for possible obstructions.
Check side clearances when approaching gates, bridges, buildings, or fixed obstructions.
It is recommended that no passengers be carried on the tractor or equipment.
Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts.
Always keep all shields and guards in place and securely fastened.
Do not clean, lubricate, or adjust your equipment while it is moving.
When halting operation, even periodically, set the tractor or towing vehicle brakes, disengage the PTO, shut off the engine and remove the ignition key.
After running your machine
Height Adjustment of Applicator Boom
The applicator boom with attached discharge electrode is hydraulically controlled for height adjustment. For the best and most optimum results, the applicator boom height and discharge electrode should be adjusted to pass 3 to 4 inches over the top of the crop plant canopy. If the boom is too low, the crop plant canopy themselves will become conductors and that plant’s growth can be stunted or the plant can be destroyed. However, if the applicator boom and discharge electrode is too high, providing excessive crop clearance, the result can be missing many weed plants that are only slightly higher than the crop plant canopy. For best results, the operator must keep the applicator boom and discharge electrode at the optimum clearance level. This is primarily accomplished through operating the hydraulic top link cylinder connected to the applicator boom three-point mount (see Page C-2). Crop tolerance to electricity varies considerably. Operators should exercise caution to minimize contact with any crop plant canopy. While some crop plants have been found to be quite tolerant, contacting other crop plants could result in destruction and/or yield reduction. Caution must be used to minimize possible crop damage.
Operating Speeds During operation, forward speed can generally vary from 1.5 MPH to 6 MPH (2.4 KPH to 9.6
KPH). The speed displayed on the monitor screen is approximate and may not match the speed shown on the tractor speedometer. Travel speed is based on relative weed conditions. Low speeds must be used in heavy weed conditions or when treating drier, more mature weeds. Some weed species, which prove to be more tolerable to electrical current, are more difficult to kill and slower speeds will increase effectiveness. The amount of contact time between the weed and discharge electrode will affect the level of weed control. Weed species with multiple, smaller stems are harder to control than those with a single stem and slower speeds will in turn result in contact of more of the plant branches and more effective weed control. A visual check of the weeds after a pass will usually indicate whether proper ground speed is being used. (NOTE: High dew-point weather patterns may slow visual damage to the plant.)
Weed Zapper Capacities
The Weed Zapper is capable of producing up to 250,000 watts of weed-killing electricity. Under normal conditions, this is adequate power to successfully control weeds. Abnormally dense weed populations may exceed the capacity of The Weed Zapper and effectiveness will be decreased. This results in the need to treat the same field several times (multiple passes) about four days apart. Whenever a new layer of weeds rises above the crop plant canopy, apply an additional treatment. As a rule, administer an application whenever weeds are 4 to 6 inches (10.1 to 15.2 cm) higher than the crop plant canopy. To increase treatment effectiveness in severe weed infestations, several operator adjustments should be made. Ground speed should be 3.5 miles per hour. Be sure to watch the Average Amps Bar Graph coloring. Keeping the graph color in green or yellow will help to prevent overloading the system causing a shutdown. Raise the operating height of the applicator boom to contact only taller weeds during the first pass. A successive treatment (typically four days apart), with lower levels of applicator boom height, will result in a “melting down” effect on the weeds. On subsequent passes, treat the same rows from the previous treatment by traveling the opposite direction. The subsequent applications should be about 4-5 days apart. Each pass should be about 2″-4″ lower than the previous pass.
Initial Startup Procedure and Instructions Note: After you have received your machine and have it mounted on your tractor and are ready for operation, please follow these instructions for the initial start-up.
Disconnect the HV wing transfer wires from the center boom section electrode and wing electrodes. This does not apply to the 15’ rigid bar model. This is a 2-step process on the 20’ and 30’ models with single left and right wings and a 3-step process on the 40’ boom with dual left and right wings. The only electrode which will be powered, for the first step of the initial start-up, is the center boom section electrode with the High Voltage Transfer Cable feeding from the transformer connected to it.
Start the tractor engine and bring it to idle speed.
Turn on the control monitor power switch located at the bottom of the monitor.
Wait for the Control Monitor to power up displaying a screen showing “The Weed Zapper” along with the machine’s model info and software versions. Press the right arrow button to advance to the next screen (see Page D-6).
The first of four instruction screens will appear. These are programmed with a slight time delay so you cannot rush through them. Entirely read each of the screens. On the Liability and Indemnity screen, you must press the down arrow at the bottom of the screen to scroll down and entirely read the instructions as well as access the “I AGREE, or I DISAGREE” buttons. Once the operator has read each instruction screen, they may then press the “I AGREE” button for 1 complete second, to accept and proceed to the next screen. If you disagree with any of the wording on any screen, press the “I DISAGREE” button and discontinue attempted use of the machine (see Pages D-7 – D-10).
Check to ensure that no person, animal, or other obstructions are within 50 ft. (15.2 m) of the machine.
Select boom configuration type (rigid or wing folding bar) by holding appropriate button down for one second (see Page D-17). The system auto selects the most likely boom type for the Zapper model being used.
On the screen for choosing the HP, select the HP that is just below your tractors rated HP.
On the “Weed-Type Screen, select Low Weeds. Always perform initial startup on “Low Weed” selection.
Install all insulator arms and wires according to the instructional YouTube video. Enter the following link in your browser: https://youtu.be/4lacFX3u_sU?si=Q6T2T23GWBYbV5lD
Only connect the boom end of the HV Transfer Cable to the front electrode of the center section. At this time, leave both ends of all “small gray wing transfer wires” disconnected.
Start-up with only the center section electrode connected first. All safety sensors located on the right side of the monitor run screen must be satisfied showing “green”. This includes having the generator RPM at or above 1650 (approx. 1000+ PTO RPM). The RED “Disabled” light that is below the vertical column of safety sensor boxes should turn to GREEN and show “Ready” once safeties and RPM requirements are satisfied.
Once you see “Zapper is Running!” displayed on the lower right corner of the monitor, you can shock weeds if any are present.
If no warnings or fault codes display on monitor during this start-up procedure, disengage the PTO and turn tractor off. Connect both ends of the Main Wing Transfer Wires and repeat the start-up procedure again.
If no warnings or fault codes display on monitor during this startup, then connect both ends of the Outer Wing Transfer Wires (if applicable) and repeat the start-up procedure again. NOTE: The HIGH VOLTAGE DISCHARGE ELECTRODES will remain powered until the RED/STOP switch is pressed or one of the safety/operation condition sensors are no longer satisfied. If an unsatisfied safety condition sensor causes the electrical current to turn off, the monitor should display which sensor is not satisfied so the operator can take the necessary corrective action and/or measures.
Field Operation Procedures
Start the generator engine and bring it to idle speed.
Turn on the control monitor power switch located at the bottom of the monitor.
Wait for the Control Monitor to power-up, displaying a screen showing “The Weed Zapper” along with the machine’s model info and software versions. Press the right arrow button to advance to the next screen.
The first of three instruction screens will appear. These are programmed with a slight time delay so you cannot rush through them. Read entirely each of the screens. On the Liability and Indemnity screen, you must press the down arrow at the bottom of the screen and scroll down to entirely read the instructions, as well as access the “I AGREE” or “I DISAGREE” buttons for one complete second. Once the operator has read each instruction screen, they may then press the “I AGREE” button for one complete second, to accept and proceed to the next screen. If you disagree with any of the wording on any screen, press the “I DISAGREE” button and discontinue attempted use of the machine.
Check to ensure that no person, animal, or other obstructions are within 50 ft. (15.2 m) of the machine.
On the Weed-type selection screen, the default selection is “Broad Leaf”. You may select “Low/Short Weeds” if this better describes your foliage type. This setting may be changed without stopping, while the machine is in operation.
There is a Voltage Test/Calibration Button that, when pressed, will initiate a 45 second automatic test to ensure all voltages are within proper ranges for each weed type selection.
On the sensor condition and machine performance screen, it shows which safety/operation condition sensors are satisfied by illuminating each corresponding box in green. A red box indicates the sensor condition is not satisfied. The five sensor boxes shown are RIGHT WING – LEFT WING – SPEED – GEN RPM and SEAT S. The SPEED box will not turn green until the tractor is moving forward at 1.5 MPH, or more, as indicated by the operating system. This may differ from the tractor speedometer reading.
There is a Voltage Test/Calibration Button that, when pressed, will initiate a 45 second automatic test to ensure all voltages are within proper ranges for each weed type selection.
On the sensor condition and machine performance screen, it shows which safety/operation condition sensors are satisfied by illuminating each corresponding box in green. A red box indicates the sensor condition is not satisfied. The five sensor boxes shown are RIGHT WING – LEFT WING – SPEED – GEN RPM and SEAT S. The SPEED box will not turn green until the tractor is moving forward at 1.5 MPH, or more, as indicated by the operating system. This may differ from the tractor speedometer reading.
Engage PTO and increase engine speed to reach an approximate speed of 1050-1100 PTO RPM. Press the Manual 20 Second RPM Bypass button. Generator RPM shown on the monitor should read approximately 1800 at this point. Generator RPM of 1650 or more is required. NOTE: The GEN RPM will not display until the wing switch test has been done, 20 Second Manual RPM BYPASS button has been pressed, emergency stop button is released and the operator is in the seat.
DO NOT allow anyone to mount or dismount the tractor while the PTO is engaged as this may lead to an electrical shock. While standing on the ground, do not allow anyone to touch any part of the tractor or Weed Zapper while the tractor PTO is engaged, as an electrical shock could occur.
Once you have achieved forward motion all safety/operation condition sensor boxes should now be green. The previously red “Disabled” box should also be green and showing “Ready”. You may now begin electrical application mode by pressing the GREEN/START button on the bottom right of monitor. The green “Ready” box should turn yellow and read “CAUTION-ZAPPER IS RUNNING”. The discharge electrode is now energized, and “zapping application” may begin. NOTE: If machine is parked outside during periods of non-use such as overnight or between zapping operations for several days, please observe the following instructions: Ends of conduit enclosing high voltage electrical cables should be sealed with caulk to keep bugs and moisture from getting in and causing damage to wires. Apply silicone caulk to conduit ends to prevent this from happening. Also, when parking unit while on tractor, tilt front of boom downward using hydraulic top-link, so insulator arms are at a downhill angle. This too will prevent water from getting into the conduit.
Bar Graphs/Meters Info NOTE: Multiple graphs/meters shown on the monitor provide the operator with continuous information regarding machine performance.
GEN TEMP METERS: Indicate internal temperature of the generator.
AVERAGE AMPS METER: Indicates an average current load level on generator. The operator should endeavor to keep the bar graph in GREEN or YELLOW range and absolutely not RED, as this may damage the system.
KILL RATE: A Colored Bar Graph indicating the level of voltage output to applicator bar. This is helpful in determining the estimated weed killing effectiveness of the system. The operator should endeavor to keep the bar graph in GREEN or YELLOW range and absolutely not RED, as this may damage the system.
GEN. RPM – PTO: Indicates approximate RPM of generator and tractor PTO. The system should be operated at 1800 generator RPM with no load.
M.P.H. METER: By pressing and holding for 1 second, this graph will also display a number indicating approximate machine travel speed. The speed displayed may differ from tractor speed displayed as it is approximate and not precise.
20 Second Manual RPM Bypass: This allows the operator to view generator and PTO RPM’s without moving and with wings in the up position. This does not start the application.
Right Wing: Safety indicator. This toggles between RED (not satisfied) and GREEN (Satisfied).
Left Wing: Safety indicator. This toggles between RED (not satisfied) and GREEN (Satisfied).
Back arrow: This allows the operator to go back to the previous screen.
Speed: Safety indicator. This indicates that the system has sufficient forward motion, it toggles between RED (not satisfied) and GREEN (Satisfied).
RPM: Safety indicator. This toggles between RED (not satisfied) and GREEN (Satisfied).
Seat S: Safety indicator. This indicates the operator is on the seat and toggles between RED (not satisfied) and GREEN (Satisfied).
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
Zapper Is Running: This button only appears when the system application is active. If it goes off, the system is no longer applying energy to weeds.
Advance Arrow: This allows the operator to go forward to the next screen.
1 Button: This allows the operator to select the Short/Low Weed selection without returning to the previous screen. Press and hold button for 1 second.
2 Button: This allows the operator to select the Broadleaf weed selection without returning to the previous screen. Press and hold button for 1 second.
3 Button: This allows the operator to select the GRASS weed selection without returning to the previous screen. Press and hold button for 1 second.
Program version: This allows the operator to view the current programming version without returning to the home screen. This version number will be required for technical assistance.
Running hours: This hour meter only counts time that the system has been Zapping, generating and applying current to weeds, etc.
Additional Points of Information Pertaining to Field Operation Mode
NOTE: The HIGH VOLTAGE DISCHARGE ELECTRODES will remain powered until the RED/STOP switch is pressed or one of the safety/operation condition sensors are no longer satisfied. If an unsatisfied safety sensor condition causes the machine to turn off, the monitor will tell the operator which sensor condition is not satisfied so the operator can take the necessary corrective action and/or measures.
Any time the seat safety sensor condition becomes unsatisfied, for 3 seconds or more, it will be necessary to read through each of the four instruction screens and select “I Agree” again. Then you may press the GREEN/START switch to resume operation.
Remember, the coulters supply the ground needed to complete the electrical power circuit. NEVER touch the coulters or any framing while tractor PTO is engaged.
While in the Operation mode, the monitor and automation controls will automatically adjust voltage and current settings to achieve optimum results. This is dependent on the weed type selection chosen by operator.
Wide fluctuations in indicated voltage and amperage are normal under standard application conditions. More uniform weed density will result in fairly constant voltage and amp-meter levels.
To quickly stop treatment or de-energize the HIGH VOLTAGE discharge electrode at any time, press the ROUND RED EMERGENCY STOP switch. Pressing the ROUND RED EMERGENCY STOP switch is the only way to quickly stop the HIGH VOLTAGE OUTPUT
Turning Around/Changing Direction at End of Field When turning around at the end of the field, use the following procedure:
Reduce forward speed to a safe level for making turn.
Push RED/STOP button on monitor.
With wing stops in field operation position, raise applicator boom wings until they contact the wing stops (wing and speed boxes will illuminate RED).
Complete turn making certain that adequate clearance is maintained from any object.
After wings are raised, operator may utilize the Auto Start feature by pressing and holding the Green start button for 2 seconds. When this feature is activated, Zapping function will start automatically when wings are lowered and speed/motion is detected. This feature is available on 2020 and newer models only.
While maintaining motion, lower applicator boom wings (coulter and speed boxes will illuminate GREEN).
Resume normal operating speed
Do not operate the tractor in reverse with the coulters down. The Weed Zapper is designed for forward motion ONLY. If it is necessary to operate the tractor in reverse, perform the following instructions:
Press RED/STOP switch on monitor.
With wing stops in field operation position, raise applicator boom wings (wing and speed boxes will illuminate RED).
Be sure to check to the rear for possible interference to the applicator boom.
Proceed slowly in reverse, with CAUTION.
Dismounting the Tractor Never dismount tractor without first accomplishing the following:
Press the RED/STOP switch on the monitor.
Disengage the PTO.
Place the tractor in the manufacturer’s recommended PARK position.
Power off the control monitor by pressing the Power Toggle Switch.
Stop the tractor’s engine and remove the key from the ignition and operator’s station.
Lowering Output/Load Requirements Model 16R30
Completely fold-up outer extension wings.
Raise HV discharge electrode height.
Change HP setting to a lower selection on monitor.
Change weed type selection to a lower setting (Grass to Broadleaf, Broadleaf to Low Weed).
Disconnect and secure one or both HV jumper cables from center-main discharge electrode.
Machine Overheating If the machine shuts down due to overheating caused by overloading of the system. , time must be allowed for it to cool down. THE MACHINE WILL NOT OPERATE WHEN OVERHEATED. Implement the following instructions and procedures if overheating occurs.
Generator Overheating
When generator temperature reaches or slightly exceeds excessive temp. set point #1, a warning screen will appear on the monitor (see Pages D-24 – D-29). Allow generator to cool below excessive temp. set point #1 by stopping forward motion and running generator at 1500 Gen RPM. This may be done at headlands to avoid skips in field from restarting.
If excessive temp. set point #1 screen is ignored a different over-temperature screen will appear (see Pages D-24 – D-29) telling operator that temp is at or slightly above excessive temp. set point #2. Instructions about how to reduce temperature are displayed on screen. Follow instructions on screen and implement cool-down procedure described in previous point.
If screens described in points 1. and 2. are ignored a 3rd over-temperature screen will appear (see Pages D-24 – D-29) warning operator that temp is at or slightly higher than excessive temp. set point #3. As instructed on the screen, the machine will enter shut-down mode at this point.
If the generator has overheated to this degree, press the RED/STOP switch on monitor.
Allow generator to rotate at a minimum of 1500 RPM to maintain maximum airflow through generator for approximately two minutes. A countdown screen will appear and you will show you when the countdown and cool down period has ended (see Pages D-24 – D-29). DO NOT DISENGAGE PTO AND STOP ROTATION. For safety reasons the operator must remain in seat with the wings down for the countdown timer to run
Once generator has cooled, resume application and raise high voltage discharge electrode height to reduce load and heat build-up in generator and other electrical components. CAUTION!!! If corrective steps are not taken to reduce load and overheating of generator is continually repeated, damage to generator and other electrical components will occur. DO NOT abuse the machine.
NOTE: When ready to cease application and machine use, eliminate all load by raising high voltage discharge electrode height and stopping forward motion. Then allow the generator to continue to run at 1500 Gen RPM for 60 seconds in order to cool generator and electrical components
Transformer Overheating
Press the RED/STOP switch on monitor.
Disengage PTO and allow transformer to cool. Rotation of PTO drive will not facilitate cooling of transformer. Stop application for 15 minutes. Keep monitor switched on during this time.
Once application resumes, raise high voltage discharge electrode height to reduce load and heat build-up in transformer
Special Operating Conditions Night Operation
EYE STRAIN MAY RESULT FROM OPERATING THE WEED ZAPPER AT NIGHT DUE TO THE INTENSITY OF ELECTRICAL ARCING. AVOID PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ELECTRICAL ARCING!
Operation During Rain or Heavy Dew
DO NOT operate The Weed Zapper during rain or conditions of rain or heavy dew. Moisture on High Voltage electrical cables will cause electrical wicking on the outside of the cable causing damage and damage to the cables. Furthermore, excessive moisture on plants decreases the effectiveness of the zapping effect and could also damage growing crops
Make sure the ROUND RED EMERGENCY STOP switch on the monitor is pushed.
Check clearance carefully before driving under overhead lines or bridges, or into buildings, through gates or past guard rails. A minimum of 11 ft. (4.2 m) of height is required for 12 row (12R30) and 16 row (16R30) models.
Make sure you are in compliance with all local and state regulations regarding transporting equipment on public roads and highways. Lights and slow-moving signs must be clean and visible by overtaking or oncoming traffic when transported.
SAFETY CHAIN – If equipment is going to be transported on a public highway, a safety chain should be obtained and installed. Always follow state and local regulations regarding a safety chain and auxiliary lighting when towing farm equipment on a public highway. Be sure to check with local law enforcement agencies for your own particular regulations. Only a safety chain (not an elastic or nylon/plastic tow strap) should be used to retain the connection between the towing and towed machines in the event of separation of the primary attaching system.
Install the safety chain by crossing the chains under the tongue and securing the chain to the draw bar cage, hitch or bumper frame.
Be aware of bystanders, particularly children! Always look around to make sure that it is safe to start the engine of the towing vehicle or move the unit. This is particularly important with higher noise levels and quiet cabs, as you may not hear people shouting
Maintain complete control of tractor and The Weed Zapper at all times when traveling on highway. If the unit begins to bounce, slow down to remedy this condition. Failing to do so could cause damage to sensitive electronic components and/or frame.
Adopt safe driving practices.
Keep the brake pedals latched together at all times. NEVER USE INDEPENDENT BRAKING WITH MACHINE IN TOW AS LOSS OF CONTROL AND/OR UPSET OF UNIT CAN RESULT.
Always drive at a safe speed relative to local conditions and ensure that your speed is low enough for an emergency stop to be safe and secure. Keep speed to a minimum.
Reduce speed prior to turns to avoid the risk of overturning.
Reduce transport speeds over rough terrain to minimize shock loading of applicator boom mounts and hitch members.
Avoid sudden uphill turns on steep slopes.
Always keep the tractor or towing vehicle in gear to provide engine braking when going downhill. Do not coast.
Do not drink and drive!
Do not text or talk on the phone or use other electronic devices during transport of equipment.
The use of flashing amber lights is acceptable in most localities. However, some localities prohibit their use. Local laws should be checked for all highway lighting and marking requirements.
When driving the tractor and equipment on the road or highway under 20 MPH (32 KPH) at night or during the day, use flashing amber warning lights and a slow-moving vehicle (SMV) identification emblem.
Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic
Watch for potholes, dips or rough road conditions. Avoid these as much as possible as this can lead to frame damage.
Be a safe and courteous driver. Always yield to oncoming traffic in all situations, including narrow bridges, intersections, etc.
Be observant of bridge loading ratings. Do not cross bridges rated lower than the gross weight as which you are operating.
Always operate equipment in a position to provide maximum visibility at all times. Make allowances for increased length and weight of the equipment when making turns, stopping the unit, etc.
Pick the most level possible route when transporting across fields. Avoid the edges of ditches or gullies and steep hillsides.
Be extra careful when working on inclines.
Maneuver the tractor or towing vehicle at safe speeds.
Avoid loose fill, rocks and holes; they can be dangerous for equipment operation or movement.
Operate the towing vehicle from the operator’s seat only.
When transported on public roads, wheels should be locked in lowered position.
Never stand alongside of unit with engine running or attempt to start engine and/or operate machine while standing alongside of unit.
As a precaution, always recheck the hardware on equipment following every 100 hr. of operation. Correct all problems. Follow the maintenance safety procedures.
Be aware, applicator boom height may vary by tilting.
Moving Front Mounted Applicator Boom to Transport Mode
Stop tractor engine, set park brake, and remove key.
Lift the applicator boom wing stops to transport position, insert lock pins and then hydraulically raise the applicator boom arms to an upright (vertical) position.
Stay clear when raising applicator booms.
Stop tractor engine, set park brake and remove key.
To prevent serious injury or death, check to ensure that the hydraulic transport lock on the unit is in the closed position in order to lock the applicator boom wings in the upright position.
The applicator boom may only be transported while attached to the rear of the cart if the cart is being towed on wheels and not carried by the 3-point mounting apparatus.
Never attempt to transport with applicator boom attached to rear of cart while cart is being carried via the 3-point mounting apparatus, as this can cause extreme pressure on the frame which can lead to metal fatigue and/or frame failure
Moving Cart from Field Operation Mode to Transport Mode and Park Mode
Stop tractor engine, set park brake and remove key.
Push axle towards the back of cart and reinsert lock pin in the lower hole position.
Repeat these steps for the other axle, wheel and tire assembly.
Moving Boom from Transport Mode to Park Mode
Stop tractor engine, set park brake and remove key.
Lower applicator boom parking stands and pin in place. Keep hands clear.
The applicator Boom Must Be Parked On Firm Surface to allow the parking stands to provide necessary stability. Care should be taken to seal the ends of the HV cable conduit to prevent moisture and bugs from entering and causing damage to wiring.
Detach hydraulic cylinder hoses.
Disconnect HV electrical cable from applicator boom discharge electrode and remove conduit lock nut and male adapter from attachment point on boom.
Pin jack stand in place on cart. Lower stand to support cart in a level position on a firm surface and unhitch unit from tractor.
Proper Machine Care Following Use The Weed Zapper represents a sizeable capital investment and should be treated as such. Listed below are some steps that should be taken to preserve your machine and protect your investment.
After any period of use, allow unit to cool down for 60 seconds with no load applied. Stop motion, raise electrode and run at 800 PTO RPM to cool unit down before shut down.
When the machine is not in operation, it should be stored indoors or under a roof, if possible. If the machine must be left out in the weather, for extended periods of non-use, it is recommended the entire machine be covered with a tarpaulin wrapped tightly over, around and under the unit to keep out moisture and windblown materials.
When machine is being used in season and is stored outside during periods of rain, tilt boom so insulator arms and conduit are running downhill to prevent water from entering the conduit and causing damage to the cable.
All bearings with lubrication fittings should have enough lubricant forced into them to seal them from dirt and moisture.
When removing hydraulic cylinders from the machine for any reason, use extreme caution in not allowing any foreign material to enter the lines. Cap all openings to keep out dust, water, etc. while cylinder is removed.
Wings may be left in an upright position or in a lowered position during storage. DO NOT remove the wing hydraulic cylinder while the wing is in an upright position. For storage, turn hydraulic transport lock to the closed position.
Following operation, or when unhitching, stop the tractor or towing vehicle, set the park brakes, disengage the PTO and all power drives, shut off the engine and remove the ignition key.
Clean, inspect, service and make necessary repairs to the equipment when parking it for long periods of time or at the end of a working season. This will help ensure that the unit will be ready for use the next time you need it
Replace all damaged or missing connecting and mounting devices (i.e., cushion clamps, zip ties, etc.)
Check for damaged or excessively worn wires and connectors. Replace if needed.
Store the unit in an area away from human activity.
Do not park equipment where it will be exposed to livestock. Damage to unit and livestock injury could result.
Do not permit children to play on or around the stored unit.
Make sure all parked machines are on a firm, level surface and engage all safety devices.
If monitor is located on an open-station tractor (which is not recommended), it needs to be removed when not in use and stored in a weather-tight enclosure or location.
Wheel chocks may be needed to prevent unit from rolling
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