290 Series BH290Series OM
User Manual: 290 Series
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© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
290 Series
Models 295, 296, 297
Published 05/12 Part No. 50050397
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
BUSH HOG®
2501 Griffin Ave.
Selma, AL 36703
334-874-2700
Email: www.bushhog.com
ROTARY MOWER
This Operator's Manual is an
integral part of the safe operation
of this machine and must be
maintained with the unit at all
times. READ, UNDERSTAND, and
FOLLOW the Safety and
Operation Instructions contained
in this manual before operating
the equipment. C01-Cover_B
Important Operating
and Safety Instructions
are found in the Mower
Safety Video that can
be instantly accessed
on the internet at:
www.algqr.com/bve
$0.00
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In order to reduce accidents and enhance the safe operation of mowers, Bush Hog, in cooperation with other
industry manufacturers has developed the AEM/FEMA Industrial and Agricultural Mower Safety Practices video
and guide book.
The video will familiarize and instruct mower-tractor operators in safe practices when using industrial and
agricultural mowing equipment. It is important that Every Mower Operator be educated in the operation of their
mowing equipment and be able to recognize the potential hazards that can occur while operating a mower. This
video, along with the mower operator’s manual and the warning messages on the mower, will significantly assist in
this important education.
Your Authorized Bush Hog Dealer may have shown this video and presented you a DVD Video when you
purchased your mower. If you or any mower operator have not seen this video, Watch the Video, Read this
Operator’s Manual, and Complete the Video Guidebook before operating your new mower. If you do not
understand any of the instructions included in the video or operator’s manual or if you have any questions
concerning safety of operation, contact your supervisor, dealer or Bush Hog.
If you would like a VHS video tape of the video, please mail AEMVideo@alamo-group.com or Fax AEM VHS Video
at (830) 372-9529 or mail in a completed copy of the form on the back of this page to AEM VHS Video 1502 E
Walnut Street, Seguin, TX 78155. and request the VHS video version. Please include your name, mailing address,
mower model and serial number.
Every operator should be trained for each piece of equipment (Tractor and Mower), understand the intended use,
and the potential hazards before operating the equipment.
The information and material listed above along with this Operator’s Manual can assist you in meeting the OSHA
requirement for annual operator training.
OSHA TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
The following training requirements have been taken from Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations Part
1928.57 (a) (6). www.osha.gov
Operator instructions. At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter the employer shall instruct
every employee who operates an agricultural tractor and implements in the safe operating practices and servicing
of equipment with which they are or will be involved, and of any other practices dictated by the work environment.
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Bush Hog will provide
one (1) AEM Mower Safety Practices Video
Please Send Me: VHS Format – AEM/FEMA Mower Operator Safety Video
DVD Format – AEM/FEMA Mower Operator Safety Video
Mower Operator’s Manual
AEM Mower Operator’s Safety Manual
Requester Name:______________________________________Phone:____________________________
Requester Address:_________________________________________
City:___________________________________
State:__________________________________
Zip Code:______________________________
Mower Model:______________________________Serial Number:_________________________________
Date Purchased:____________________________Dealer Salesperson:____________________________
Dealership Name:__________________________ Dealership Location:____________________________
Mail to:
AEM Video Services
1502 E. Walnut Street
Seguin, TX 78155
Or Fax to:
(830) 372-9529
Or Email to:
AEMVideo@alamo-group.com
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To the Owner/Operator/Dealer
This Operator's Manual is an integral part of the safe operation of this machine and must be maintained with the
implement at all times. A Manual canister is provided on the implement where this manual can be properly stored.
If you lose or damage this manual a free replacement manual can be obtained from an authorized Bush Hog dealer
or by down loading the manual from the Bush Hog website www.bushhog.com
BEFORE YOU START! READ, UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the information provided in this manual, the AEM
Mower Safety manual and the tractor operator's manual carefully to learn how to operate and service your machine
properly. Failure to do so could result in personal injury to you and bystanders. All implements with moving parts
are potentially hazardous. Every effort has been made to ensure that the machine is safe but operators must avoid
engaging in unsafe practices and follow the written instructions provided. The manufacturer has designed this
implement to be used with all its safety equipment properly attached to minimize the chance of accidents.
SAFETY FIRST. Completely read and understand the safety section of this manual before operating this
equipment. Do not allow anyone to operate this equipment who has not fully read and understood this manual.
Contact your Dealer to explain any instructions that you do not fully understand.
The care you give your Bush Hog Implement will greatly determine your satisfaction with its performance and its
service life. Carefully read and follow the instructions in this manual to provide you with a thorough understanding
of your new implement and its intended use and service requirements.
All references made in this manual to right, left, front, rear, top or bottom are as viewed facing the direction of
forward travel with the implement properly attached to the tractor.
Replacement Parts information is located in a separate Parts Manual. Bush Hog mowers use balanced and
matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts, knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain
components, and bearings. These parts are made and tested to Bush Hog specifications. Non-genuine “will fit”
parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will fit” parts may reduce mower performance, void
warranties, and present a safety hazard. Use genuine Bush Hog mower parts for economy and safety.
For future reference, record your Bush Hog product model number and serial number.
Dealer Telephone Model Number
Owner Purchase Date: Serial Number
SERIAL NUMBER PLATE
DEALER to CUSTOMER Pre-Delivery/ Operation Instructions
Dealer should inform the Purchaser of this product of Warranty terms, provisions, and procedures that are
applicable.Dealer should inform Purchaser to review the contents of the Operator’s Manual including safety
equipment, safe operation, and maintenance, to review the Safety Signs on the implement (and tractor if possible),
and of Purchaser’s responsibility to train his/her operators’s in safe operation procedures.
IMPLEMENTS: I have explained that Deflectors, Chain Guards, or Solid Skirts must be installed and maintained in
good repair.
•DRIVELINES: I have made certain that all driveline, gearbox, and other shields are in good repair and fastened
securely in place to prevent injuries from entanglement or thrown objects.
•HYDRAULIC MACHINES: I have explained the necessity of using clean hydraulic oil, changing filters as
instructed, stopping leaks, damage caused by operating with over-heated oil, caring for hoses, using hoses of
proper rating, maintaining the specified operating pressure and the potential hazard of oil’s penetrating the
skin.
•FOLDING-TYPE IMPLEMENTS: I have explained that it is not possible to guard against thrown objects when
the head is lifted off ground and that operator is responsible to watch out for persons in the area. I have
explained that the lifted mower head or boom can contact overhead obstructions with damage to cables and
telephone lines and possible injury. I have explained that the extended head or boom or retracted boom can
contact power lines with resulting electrocution, injury or death and that operator is responsible for keeping
clear of such hazards.
PRE-DELIVERY SERVICE
CHECK AND ADJUST OR LUBRICATE AS REQUIRED
See Operator’s Manual for Details
Inspection Performed - Warranty and Safety Procedures Explained - Installation Complete
LUBRICATION & HYDRAULICS
Gearbox (Oil Levels)
Hydraulic Oil Level (External Tank)
Tractor Hydraulic Oil Level
Hydraulic Hoses (Not Kinked Tighten Connections)
Front Pump Drive (Assembly Is Tight And Shaft Properly
Aligned)
MOWER
Spindle And Motor Bolts Properly Torqued
Spindle Oil Level
Blade Carrier Bolts Properly Torqued/Retaining Pin In
Place
Mower Cutting Height And Level Adjusted
Cutting Shaft Bearings Lubricated
All Hardware Properly Torqued
Tire and Air Pressure/Lug Nuts (Correct Torque)
Wheel Bearings (Check, Grease, and Preload)
ATTACHMENTS & INSTALLATION
Deflectors Front And Rear
Shredding Attachments
Correct Blade Rotation Direction
Axle Arms And Beams
Tongue And Control Rods (Installed And Adjusted)
All Bolts - Pins And Nuts (Proper Torque)
MOWER TO TRACTOR CONNECTIONS
Draw Bar Length (Check And Set)
A-Frame Pivot & Links
Control Rods (Adjusted Equal)
Axle Height (Adjusted)
Cutting Height (Adjust)
Mount Kit-Pre-Operation Check Complete
Mower Wing (Adjust Level With The Center)
Mower Wing (Check For Proper Raising Operation)
C.V. Driveline (Check Max Turn Radius)
Pull Type Hitch (Height Adjustment)
Mounting Hardware Properly Torqued
SAFETY ITEMS
Protective Shields (Operation And Installation)
Driveline Clutch (Torque Limiter) (Adjust And Run In)
Safety Decals (Installed)
Operator’s Manual (Supplied)
Tractor PTO Shield (Installed)
S.M.V. Emblem (Installed If Needed)
Tongue Jack (Installation and Operation)
Safety Tow Chain (Installed)
ADMA Driveline Safety Manual Supplied
AEM Mower Safety Manual (Supplied in Canister)
AEM Mower Safety Video has been shown to Purchaser
Table of Contents
SAFETY SECTION ............................................................................................................. 1-1
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND PRACTICES ................................................................................ 1-2
OPERATOR SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................... 1-3
CONNECTION OR DISCONNECTING IMPLEMENT SAFETY ....................................................................... 1-4
CRUSHING HAZARDS ..................................................................................................................................... 1-5
THROWN OBJECTS HAZARDS ...................................................................................................................... 1-6
RUN OVER HAZARDS ..................................................................................................................................... 1-8
PTO ENTANGLEMENT HAZARDS .................................................................................................................. 1-9
MOWER BLADE CONTACT HAZARDS ........................................................................................................ 1-10
HIGH PRESSURE OIL LEAK HAZARDS ....................................................................................................... 1-11
ELECTRICAL & FIRE HAZARDS ................................................................................................................... 1-12
TRANSPORTING HAZARDS ......................................................................................................................... 1-13
HAZARDS WITH MAINTENANCE OF IMPLEMENT ..................................................................................... 1-14
PARTS INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................. 1-15
DECAL LOCATION ......................................................................................................................................... 1-16
DECAL DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................................. 1-18
Federal Laws and Regulations ....................................................................................................................... 1-23
INTRODUCTION SECTION ................................................................................................ 2-1
Equipment Specifications .................................................................................................................................. 2-3
KEY OPERATION POINTS .............................................................................................................................. 2-4
Operating Noise Level/Sound Pressure ............................................................................................................ 2-4
Warranty information ......................................................................................................................................... 2-4
ASSEMBLY SECTION ....................................................................................................... 3-1
DEALER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................................... 3-2
“A” FRAME ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................... 3-2
HITCH PINS ...................................................................................................................................................... 3-2
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION (Model 295 and 296) ........................................................................................ 3-3
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION - (Model 297) .................................................................................................... 3-3
DRIVELINE ATTACHMENT ............................................................................................................................. 3-4
SLIP CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT AND OPERATIONAL CHECK ......................................................................... 3-4
OPERATION SECTION ...................................................................................................... 4-1
OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 4-3
TRACTOR REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................... 4-4
ROPS and Seat Belt ......................................................................................................................................... 4-4
Tractor Safety Devices ...................................................................................................................................... 4-4
Tractor Horsepower .......................................................................................................................................... 4-5
3-Point Hitch ..................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
Power Take Off (PTO) ...................................................................................................................................... 4-5
GETTING ON AND OFF THE TRACTOR ........................................................................................................ 4-6
Boarding the Tractor ......................................................................................................................................... 4-6
Dismounting the Tractor .................................................................................................................................... 4-7
STARTING THE TRACTOR ............................................................................................................................. 4-7
CONNECTING THE MOWER TO THE TRACTOR .......................................................................................... 4-8
Connecting Mower-Lift Type ............................................................................................................................. 4-8
3-Point Quick Hitch ........................................................................................................................................... 4-9
Connecting Mower - Lift Type (Quick Hitch) ................................................................................................... 4-10
SETTING THE MOWER ................................................................................................................................. 4-10
Setting Mower Height- Lift Type - (Standard or Quick Hitch) .......................................................................... 4-11
Setting Deck Pitch ........................................................................................................................................... 4-13
DRIVELINE ATTACHMENT ........................................................................................................................... 4-13
Driveline Length Check ................................................................................................................................... 4-14
PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND SERVICE .......................................................................................... 4-16
Tractor Pre-Operation Inspection/Service ....................................................................................................... 4-17
Mower Pre-Operation Inspection/Service ....................................................................................................... 4-17
Cutting Component Inspection ........................................................................................................................ 4-20
Blade Bolt Inspection ...................................................................................................................................... 4-23
DRIVING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT ................................................................................................ 4-26
Starting the Tractor ......................................................................................................................................... 4-27
Brake and Differential Lock Setting ................................................................................................................. 4-27
Raising the Mower .......................................................................................................................................... 4-28
Driving the Tractor and Mower ........................................................................................................................ 4-28
Crossing Ditches and Steep Inclines .............................................................................................................. 4-29
OPERATING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT .......................................................................................... 4-30
Foreign Debris Hazards .................................................................................................................................. 4-31
Bystanders/Passersby Precautions ................................................................................................................ 4-31
Engaging the Power Take Off (PTO) .............................................................................................................. 4-32
PTO RPM and Ground Speed ........................................................................................................................ 4-33
Operating the Mower ...................................................................................................................................... 4-33
Shutting Down the Implement ......................................................................................................................... 4-37
DISCONNECTING THE MOWER FROM THE TRACTOR ............................................................................ 4-37
MOWER STORAGE ....................................................................................................................................... 4-39
TRANSPORTING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT .................................................................................. 4-39
Transporting on Public Roadways .................................................................................................................. 4-40
Hauling the Tractor and Implement ................................................................................................................. 4-42
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE ....................................................................................................................... 4-43
MAINTENANCE SECTION ................................................................................................. 5-1
HAZARDS WITH MAINTENANCE OF IMPLEMENT ....................................................................................... 5-2
PARTS INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................... 5-3
LUBRICATION .................................................................................................................................................. 5-3
GEARBOX ........................................................................................................................................................ 5-5
TAIL WHEEL ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................ 5-5
BLADE SHARPENING ..................................................................................................................................... 5-7
BLADE CARRIER REMOVAL .......................................................................................................................... 5-7
BLADE CARRIER INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................. 5-8
BLADE REMOVAL ............................................................................................................................................ 5-8
SLIP CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT ......................................................................................................................... 5-9
STORAGE ...................................................................................................................................................... 5-10
PROPER TORQUE FOR FASTENERS ......................................................................................................... 5-10
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Safety Section 1-1
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY SECTION
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-2
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND PRACTICES
A careful operator is the best operator. Safety is of primary importance to the manufacturer and should be to
the owner/operator. Most accidents can be avoided by being aware of your equipment, your surroundings,
and observing certain precautions. The first section of this manual includes a list of Safety Messages that, if
followed, will help protect the operator and bystanders from injury or death. Read and understand these
Safety Messages before assembling, operating or servicing this Implement. This equipment should only be
operated by those persons who have read the manual, who are responsible and trained, and who know how
to do so responsibly.
The Safety Alert Symbol combined with a Signal Word, as seen below, is used throughout this
manual and on decals which are attached to the equipment. The Safety Alert Symbol means:
“ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!” The Symbol and Signal Word
are intended to warn the owner/operator of impending hazards and the degree of possible injury
faced when operating this equipment.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, WILL result in DEATH OR
VERY SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, COULD result in DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, MAY result in MINOR
INJURY.
Identifies special instructions or procedures that, if not strictly observed, could result in
damage to, or destruction of the machine, attachments or the environment.
NOTE: Identifies points of particular interest for more efficient and convenient operation or repair.
READ, UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the following Safety Messages. Serious injury or
death may occur unless care is taken to follow the warnings and instructions stated in this
Manual and in the Safety Messages on the implement. Always follow the instruction in this
manual and use good common sense to avoid hazards.
NOTE: If you want a translation of this safety section in one of the following Languages, please contact:
Translations at 1502 E. Walnut Street Seguin, TX 78155; Fax: (830) 372-9529; Safety Section Translations
are available in Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Russian. PN GS01
Practice all usual and customary safe working precautions and above all---
remember safety is up to YOU. Only YOU can prevent serious injury or death
from unsafe practices.
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-3
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
OPERATOR SAFETY
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH DO THE FOLLOWING:
•READ, UNDERSTAND and FOLLOW Operator's Manual instructions, Warnings and Safety Messages.
•WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection and gloves when operating or
repairing equipment
•WEAR appropriate breathing respirator when operating in dusty conditions to avoid respiratory diseases.
•DO NOT WEAR loose clothing or jewelry to avoid rotating parts entanglement injury.
•DO NOT USE DRUGS or ALCOHOL before or while operating equipment.
•DO NOT ALLOW anyone to operate equipment under the influence of drug or alcohol.
•CONSULT medical professional for medication impairment side effects.
•STAY ALERT, prolonged operation can cause fatigue, STOP and REST.
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
VISIBILITY CONDITIONS WHEN MOWING:
•OPERATE IN DAYLIGHT or with lights that gives at least 100 yards clear visibility.
•BE ABLE TO SEE and identify passersby, steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power
lines, debris and foreign objects.
GROUND SPEED WHEN MOWING:
•NORMAL SPEED range is between 2 to 5mph.
•ADJUST MOWING SPEED for terrain conditions and grass type, density and cut height.
•REDUCE MOWING SPEED when near steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power
lines and to avoid debris and foreign objects.
INSECT INFESTATION
• Do Not operate in areas where bees or insects may attack unless you WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
or use enclosed tractor cab.
PTO SPEED:
• DO NOT EXCEED IMPLEMENT RATED PTO SPEED
•AVOID exceeding rated PTO speeds that may result in broken drivelines or blade failures.
SAFETY SIGNS:
•REPLACE missing, damaged or unreadable safety signs immediately. PN OS01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-4
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
CONNECTION OR DISCONNECTING IMPLEMENT SAFETY
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM BEING CRUSHED BY TRACTOR OR
IMPLEMENT:
WHEN BACKING tractor to implement hitch:
•DO NOT ALLOW BYSTANDERS between tractor and implement
BEFORE connecting and disconnecting implement hitch:
•STOP TRACTOR ENGINE, place transmission into park, engage parking brake and remove key.
WHEN connecting and disconnecting implement hitch:
•DO NOT crawl or walk under raised mower or wing.
•USE tongue JACK to lift heavy implement tongues to control implement tongue movement.
•AVOID overloading jack to prevent jack failure and injury.
WHEN CONNECTING IMPLEMENT DRIVELINE:
TO AVOID implement driveline coming loose during operation:
•LUBRICATE yoke spring locking collar to ensure it freely slides on PTO shaft
•SECURELY seat yoke locking balls in PTO shaft groove.
•PUSH and PULL DRIVELINE on both the tractor and implement PTO SHAFTS to ensure it is SECURELY
ATTACHED
TO AVOID broken driveline during operations:
•CHECK driveline for proper length between PTO shaft and implement gearbox shaft.
• Drivelines too short can pull apart or disengage.
• Drivelines too long can bottom out.
• Bottoming driveline telescoping assembly will stop sliding and become solid.
• Driveline bottoming can push through support bearings and break off PTO shaft.
CONTACT DEALER if implement driveline does not match Tractor PTO shaft:
• DO NOT USE PTO ADAPTER.
Using a PTO adapter can cause:
• Excessive vibration, thrown objects, blade and implement failures by doubling operating speed.
• Increased working length exposing unshielded driveline areas and entanglement hazards.
DO NOT connect the Mower to a tractor with the PTO directly connected to the Tractor transmission. PN CD02
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-5
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
CRUSHING HAZARDS
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM FALLING OFF TRACTOR, EQUIPMENT RUN OVER,
ROLLOVER AND CRUSHING BY FALLING WING OR IMPLEMENT:
•USE ROPS and SEAT BELT equipped tractors for mowing operations.
•KEEP ROPS lock in up position.
•ALWAYS BUCKLE UP seat belt when operating tractor and equipment.
•ONLY OPERATE tractor and equipment while seated in tractor seat.
WHEN RAISING OR LOWERING IMPLEMENT:
•Raise or lower ONLY WHILE SEATED in tractor seat with seat belt buckled.
•Raise or lower ONLY when implement tongue is securely attached to tractor drawbar TO AVOID implement tip over.
•KEEP BYSTANDERS CLEAR of area TO AVOID crushing.
LIFTED Equipment can fall from mechanical or hydraulic failure or inadvertent Control Lever movement.
TO AVOID EQUIPMENT FALLING while working near or under lifted wings, components and
implements raised by 3-Pointed tractor hitch:
• SECURELY SUPPORT or block up raised equipment and components.
• BLOCK UP and securely support equipment before putting hands, feet or body under raised equipment or lifted compo-
nents.
WHEN PARKING Implement and Tractor:
•LOWER implement, LOCK or BLOCK lifted parts before leaving equipment.
•NEVER leave implement unattended in a raised position.
TO AVOID CHILDREN FALLING OFF OR BEING CRUSHED BY EQUIPMENT:
•NEVER ALLOW children to play on or around Tractor or Implement.
WHEN UNHITCHING IMPLEMENT:
•LOWER implement, LOCK or BLOCK lifted parts before leaving equipment.
•USE tongue jack to control implement tongue movement.
•USE tongue JACK to lift heavy implement tongues.
•AVOID overloading jack to prevent jack failure and injury. PN CH02
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-6
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
THROWN OBJECTS HAZARDS
ROTARY MOWERS CAN THROW OBJECTS 300 FEET OR MORE UNDER ADVERSE
CONDITIONS.
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO OPERATOR OR BYSTANDERS FROM THROWN OBJECTS:
• KEEP bystanders 300 feet away
STOP MOWING IF PASSERSBY ARE WITHIN 300 FEET UNLESS:
•All THROWN OBJECT SHIELDING including, Front and Rear Deflectors, Chains Guards, Steel Guards, Bands,
Side Skirts and Skid Shoes in place and in good condition when mowing.
• Mower sections or wing are adjusted to be close and parallel to ground without exposing blades.
•MOWING AREA has been inspected and foreign materials and debris have been removed.
•PASSERSBY are inside enclosed vehicle.
INSPECT AREA FOR POTENTIAL THROWN OBJECTS BEFORE MOWING:
•REMOVE debris, rocks, wire, cable, metal objects and other foreign material from area.
Wire, cable, rope, chains and metal objects can be thrown or swing outside deck with great velocity:
1. MARK objects that cannot removed.
2. AVOID these objects when mowing.
HIGH GRASS and WEED AREA INSPECTION:
•INSPECT for and REMOVE any hidden large debris.
•MOW at Intermediate height
•INSPECT and remove remaining debris
•MOW at final height.
MOWER THROWN OBJECT SHIELDING:
•KEEP all thrown object shielding including, Front and Rear Deflectors, Chains Guards, Steel Guards, Bands, Side
Skirts and Skid Shoes in place and in good condition when mowing.
•DO NOT OPERATE with any thrown object shielding missing, damaged or removed.
RIGHT OF WAY (Highway) MOWING
•USE DOUBLE CHAIN GUARDS for highway, right-of-way, parks or greenbelt mowing or all other mowing where
human dwellings, vehicles, or livestock could be within 300 feet of the mower.
• No shielding is 100% effective in preventing thrown objects. To Reduce Possibility of Injury:
1. MAINTAIN MOWER SHIELDING, side skirts, skid shoes, and blades in good operational condition,
2. RAISE CUTTING HEIGHT to 6 INCHES minimum,
3. INSPECT AREA thoroughly before mowing to REMOVE potential THROWN OBJECT HAZARDS,
4. NEVER ALLOW BLADES to CONTACT SOLID OBJECTS like wire, rocks, post, curbs, guardrails, or ground
while mowing. PN TO02
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-7
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
THROWN OBJECTS HAZARDS (CONTINUED)
MOWER OPERATION:
•DO NOT exceed mower's rated Cutting Capacity or cut non-vegetative material.
•USE ENCLOSED TRACTOR CABS when two or more mowers are operating in mowing area.
•ADJUST mower sections or wing close and parallel to ground without exposing blades
•ADJUST cutting HEIGHT to AVOID BLADE CONTACT with solid objects like wire, rocks, posts, curbs,
guard rails and fixed obstructions.
•DO NOT operate mower when mower is raised or in transport position
•STOP MOWING immediately if blades strike heavy objects, fixed structures, metal guard rails and con-
crete structures:
1. BLADES CAN FAIL from impact and objects can be thrown with great velocity.
2. INSPECT and REPLACE any damaged blades.
3. CHECK blade carrier balance and REPLACE if damaged.
•DO NOT mow in standing water TO AVOID possible BLADE FAILURE.
•AVOID MOWING in reverse:
1. STOP PTO and back up mower.
2. LOWER mower, engage PTO and mow forward.
•STOP PTO and BLADES when raising implement or the mower to transport position.
•DO NOT ENGAGE PTO with mower in transport position.
•STOP mowing when EXCESSIVE VIBRATION occurs:
1. STOP PTO and tractor ENGINE.
2. INSPECT mower for vibration source
3. REPLACE any damage parts and bent or damaged BLADES. PN TO02-X
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-8
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
RUN OVER HAZARDS
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM FALLING OFF TRACTOR OR
EQUIPMENT RUN OVER:
•USE ROPS and SEAT BELT equipped tractors for mowing operations.
•KEEP ROPS locked in UP position.
•ONLY start tractor while seated in tractor seat.
•ALWAYS BUCKLE UP seat belt when operating tractor and equipment.
•ONLY OPERATE tractor and equipment while seated in tractor seat.
•NEVER ALLOW RIDERS on tractor or implement.
WHEN MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING TRACTOR:
•ONLY mount or dismount when tractor and moving parts are stopped.
•STOP ENGINE AND PTO, engage parking brake, lower implement, allow all moving parts to stop
and remove key before dismounting from tractor. PN RO01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-9
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
PTO ENTANGLEMENT HAZARDS
KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING DRIVELINES AND ELEMENTS TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH:
STAY AWAY and KEEP hands, feet and body AWAY from rotating blades, drivelines and parts until all moving
elements have stopped.
•STOP, LOOK and LISTEN before approaching the mower to make sure all rotating motion has stopped.
•ROTATING COMPONENTS CONTINUE to ROTATE after the PTO is shut off.
PTO SHIELDING:
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM ENTANGLEMENT WHEN OPERATING IMPLEMENT:
•KEEP PTO shields, integral driveline shields and input shields installed
•DO NOT OPERATE mower without shields and guards in place or missing
•REPAIR OR REPLACE if damage, broken or missing
•ALWAYS REPLACE GUARDS that have been removed for service or maintenance.
• Do Not use PTO or PTO guard as a step.
TO AVOID broken driveline during operations:
•CHECK driveline for proper length between PTO shaft and implement gearbox shaft.(Refer to Instructions in
Operation Section)
• Drivelines too short can pull apart or disengage.
• Drivelines too long can bottom out.
Bottoming driveline telescoping assembly will stop sliding and become solid.
• Driveline bottoming can push through support bearings and break off PTO shaft
•AVOID sharp turns or lift mower to heights to cause driveline "knocking".
• Lubricate driveshaft-telescoping components weekly.
CONTACT DEALER if implement driveline does not match Tractor PTO shaft:
•DO NOT USE PTO ADAPTER.
Using a PTO adapter can cause excessive vibration, thrown objects, blade and implement failures by
doubling operating speed. Increased working length exposing unshielded driveline areas. PN PE01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-10
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
MOWER BLADE CONTACT HAZARDS
KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING BLADES TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM
BLADE CONTACT:
•STAY AWAY and KEEP HANDS, FEET and BODY AWAY from rotating blades, drivelines and parts until all moving
elements have stopped.
•DO NOT put hands or feet under mower decks
•STOP rotating BLADES disengage PTO and wait for blade to stop rotating before raising mower deck or wings
•STOP LOOK and LISTEN before approaching the mower to make sure all rotating motion has stopped. PN MB01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-11
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
HIGH PRESSURE OIL LEAK HAZARDS
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM HIGH PRESSURE HYDRAULIC OIL LEAKS
PENERATING SKIN:
•DO NOT OPERATE equipment with oil or fuel leaks.
•KEEP all hydraulic hoses, lines and connections in GOOD CONDITION and TIGHT before applying system
pressure.
•RELIEVE HYDRAULIC PRESSURE before disconnecting lines or working on the system.
•REMOVE and replace hose if you suspect it leaks. Have dealer test it for leaks.
HIGH PRESSURE FLUID LEAKS CAN BE INVISIBLE.
WHEN CHECKING FOR HYDRAULIC LEAKS AND WORKING AROUND HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS:
•ALWAYS WEAR safety glasses and impenetrable gloves.
•USE paper or cardboard to search for leaks.
•DO NOT USE hands or body parts to search for leak.
•KEEP hands and body AWAY from pin holes and nozzles ejecting hydraulic fluid.
• Hydraulic fluid may cause gangrene if not surgically removed immediately by a doctor familiar with this form of injury.
PN HP01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-12
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
ELECTRICAL & FIRE HAZARDS
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM ELECTRICAL CONTACT WHEN
WORKING AROUND ELECTRICAL POWER LINES, GAS LINES AND UTILITY LINES:
•INSPECT mowing area for overhead or underground electrical power lines, obstructions, gas lines,
cables and Utility, Municipal, or other type structure.
•DO NOT allow mower to contact with any Utility, Municipal, or type of structures and obstructions.
•CALL 811 and 1-800-258-0808 for identify buried utility lines.
FIRE PREVENTION GUIDELINES while Operating, Servicing, and Repairing Mower and Tractor to
reduce equipment and grass fire Risk:
•EQUIP Tractor with a FIRE EXTINGUISHER
•DO NOT OPERATE mower on a tractor equipped with under frame exhaust
•DO NOT SMOKE or have open flame near Mower or Tractor
•DO NOT DRIVE into burning debris or freshly burnt area
•AVOID FIRE IGNITION by not allowing mower blade to contact solid objects like metal or rock.
•ADJUST SLIP CLUTCHES to avoid excessive slippage and clutch plate heating.
•CLEAR any grass clippings or debris buildup around mower drivelines, slip clutches, and gearboxes.
•SHUT OFF ENGINE while refueling. PN EF02
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-13
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
TRANSPORTING HAZARDS
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY AND DEATH WHEN TOWING OR TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT:
•KEEP transport speed BELOW 20 mph to maintain control of equipment.
•REDUCE SPEED on inclines, on turns and in poor towing conditions.
•DO NOT TOW with trucks or other vehicles
•USE only properly sized and equipped tractor for towing equipment.
•FOLLOW all local traffic regulations.
TRACTOR REQUIREMENTS FOR TOWING OR TRANSPORTING IMPLEMENTS:
•ONLY TRANSPORT with tractor with ROPS in the raised position.
•USE properly sized and equipped tractor that exceeds implement weight by at least 20%
•KEEP 20% of tractor weight on front wheels to maintain safe steering.
BEFORE TRANSPORTING OR TOWING IMPLEMENT:
TRACTOR INSPECTION:
•CHECK steering and braking for proper operation and in good condition.
•CHECK SMV sign, reflectors and warning lights for proper operation and visibility behind unit.
•CHECK that your driving vision is not impaired by tractor, cab, or implement while seated in tractor seat.
•ADJUST your operating position, mirrors, and implement transport for clear vision for traveling and traffic conditions.
PREPARE IMPLEMENT FOR TRANSPORTING OR TOWING:
•DISENGAGE PTO
•RAISE MOWER
•REMOVE any cut material collected on mower deck.
TOWED MOWERS - ENGAGE TRANSPORT LOCKS AND SAFETY CHAINS:
•INSTALL center axle cylinder transport stops or pins
• ATTACH implement SAFETY CHAIN to tractor
DETERMINE STOPPING CHARACTERISTICS OF TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT FOR TRANSPORTING OR
TOWING:
BRAKING TESTS:
•APPLY brakes at increasing speeds
• Observe STOPPING distances increases with increased speeds.
•DETERMINE the maximum safe transport speed that does not exceed 20 mph
DETERMINE MAXIMUM TURNING SPEED BEFORE OPERATING ON ROADS OR UNEVEN GROUND:
•TEST equipment in slowly increasing speed in turns to determine it can be operated at higher speeds.
•USE REDUCED turning speeds in sharp turns to avoid equipment turning over.
WHEN TOWING OR TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT:
• Always WEAR SEAT BELT when operating or transporting mower.
•USE low speeds to avoid overturn with raised wings.
•USE low speeds and gradual steering on curves, hills, rough or uneven surfaces and on wet roads
•TURN ON tractor FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS.
•ALLOW clearance for implement swing while turning. PN TH02
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-14
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
HAZARDS WITH MAINTENANCE OF IMPLEMENT
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM COMPONENT FAILURE BY KEEPING IMPLEMENT IN
GOOD OPERATING CONDITION IN PERFORMING PROPER SERVICE, REPAIRS AND
MAINTENANCE.
BEFORE PERFORMING SERVICE, REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE ON THE IMPLEMENT:
•STOP ENGINE AND PTO, engage parking brake, lower implement, allow all moving parts to stop and remove key before
dismounting from tractor.
•PLACE implement on ground or securely block up raised equipment. Use large blocks on soft or wet soil.
•PUSH and PULL Remote Hydraulic Cylinder lever to relieve hydraulic pressure.
•DISCONNECT IMPLEMENT driveline from tractor PTO SHAFT.
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, PROTECTIVE GLOVES and follow SAFETY PROCEDURES when performing service, repairs
and maintenance on the implement:
• Always WEAR protective GLOVES when handling blades, knives, cutting edges or worn component with sharp edges.
• Always WEAR GLOVES and SAFETY GLASSES when servicing hot components
•AVOID CONTACT with hot hydraulic oil tanks, pumps, motors, valves and hose connection surfaces.
•SECURELY support or BLOCK UP raised implement, framework and lifted components before working underneath
equipment.
•STOP any implement movements and SHUT-OFF TRACTOR engine before doing any work procedures.
•USE ladder or raised stands to reach high equipment areas inaccessible from ground.
•ENSURE good footing by standing on solid flat surfaces when getting on implement to perform work.
•FOLLOW manufacturer's instructions in handling oils, solvents, cleansers, and other chemical agents.
•DO NOT change any factory-set hydraulic calibrations to avoid component or equipment failures.
•DO NOT modify or alter implement, functions or components.
•DO NOT WELD or repair rotating mower components. These may cause vibrations and component failures being thrown
from mower.
PERFORM SERVICE, REPAIRS, LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE OUTLINED IN IMPLEMENT MAINTENANCE
SECTION:
•INSPECT for loose fasteners, worn or broken parts, leaky or loose fittings, missing or broken cotter keys and washers on
pins, and all moving parts for wear.
•REPLACE any worn or broken parts with authorized service parts.
•LUBRICATE unit as specified by lubrication schedule
•NEVER lubricate, adjust or remove material while it is running or in motion.
•TORQUE all bolts and nuts as specified.
BLADE INSPECTION:
•REPLACE bent, damage, cracked or broken blades immediately with new blades.
•AVOID blade failures and thrown broken blades. DO NOT straighten, weld, or weld hard-facing blades.
SAFETY SHIELDS, GUARDS AND SAFETY DEVICES INSPECTION:
•KEEP all Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards, Gearbox Shields, and PTO integral shields, Bands, Side Skirts and Skid
Shoes in place and in good condition.
•REPLACE any missing, broken or worn safety shields, guards and safety devices.
• Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
• Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. PN HM01
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-15
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
PARTS INFORMATION
PARTS INFORMATION
Bush Hog mowers use balanced and matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts,
knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain components, and bearings. These parts are made and tested to Bush
Hog specifications. Non-genuine "will fit" parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will
fit” parts may reduce mower performance, void warranties, and present a safety hazard. Use genuine Bush
Hog mower parts for economy and safety. (SPBH-1)
SEE YOUR BUSH HOG DEALER
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-16
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
DECAL LOCATION
NOTE: Bush Hog supplies safety decals on this product to promote safe operation. Damage to the decals may
occur while in shipping, use, or reconditioning. Bush Hog cares about the safety of its customers, operators,
and bystanders, and will replace the safety decals on this product in the field, free of charge (Some shipping
and handling charges may apply). Contact your Bush Hog dealer to order replacement decals.
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-17
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
ITEM PART NO. QTY TYPE DESCRIPTION
1. D549 1 DANGER Multi Hazard
2. D547 1 DANGER Driveline Hazards
3. D551 1 WARNING Blade Rotation, CCW
4. D559 1 WARNING Use Genuine Bush Hog Parts
5. 50050348 1 NAME 295
50050422 1 NAME 296
50050466 1 NAME 297
6. 50061049 2 LOGO Bush Hog
7. 50031213 2 REFLECTOR Red Reflectors
8. nfs 1 SERIAL PLATE Serial Number Plate
9. D546 1 DANGER Shield Missing
10. D614 2 DANGER Shield Missing, Deflectors
11. 78608 1** DANGER Rotating Driveline (Not Shown)
12. 94359 1* REFLECT SMV
13. D590 1 INSTRUCT Lubrication
14. D813 1 DANGER Multi-Language Decal
15. 50050553 1 CAUTION 3-Point Mounting
16. 50035829 1 Canister
17. 50050397 1 Operator’s Manual
* Furnished by Tractor Manufacturer for Lift Unit
** Furnished by Driveline Manufacturer
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-18
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
DECAL DESCRIPTION
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-19
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-20
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-21
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-22
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
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SAFETY
290 Series 05/12 Safety Section 1-23
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SAFETY
Federal Laws and Regulations
This section is intended to explain in broad terms the concept and effect of federal laws and regulations concerning
employer and employee equipment operators. This section is not intended as a legal interpretation of the law and
should not be considered as such.
Employer-Employee Operator Regulations
U.S. Public Law 91-596 (The Williams-Steiger Occupational and Health Act of 1970) OSHA
This Act Seeks:
“...to assure so far as possible every working man and woman in the nation safe and healthful working
conditions and to preserve our human resources...”
DUTIES
Sec. 5 (a) Each employer-
(1) shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from
recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees;
(2) shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act.
(b) Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules, regulations and
orders issued pursuant to this Act which are applicable to his own actions and conduct.
OSHA Training Requirements
Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations Part 1928.57(a)(6). www.osha.gov
Operator instructions. At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter, the employer shall
instruct every employee who operates an agricultural tractor and implements in the safe operating practices
and servicing of equipment with which they are or will be involved, and of any other practices dictated by the
work environment.
Keep all guards in place when the machine is in operation;
Permit no riders on equipment
Stop engine, disconnect the power source, and wait for all machine movement to stop before servicing,
adjusting, cleaning or unclogging the equipment, except where the machine must be running to be properly
serviced or maintained, in which case the employer shall instruct employees as to all steps and procedures
which are necessary to safely service or maintain the equipment.
Make sure everyone is clear of machinery before starting the engine, engaging power, or operating the
machine.
Employer Responsibilities:
To ensure employee safety during Tractor and Implement operation, it is the employer’s responsibility to:
1. Train the employee in the proper and safe operation of the Tractor and Implement.
2. Require that the employee read and fully understand the Tractor and Implement Operator’s manual.
3. Permit only qualified and properly trained employees to operate the Tractor and Implement.
4. Maintain the Tractor and Implement in a safe operational condition and maintain all shields and guards on the
equipment.
5. Ensure the Tractor is equipped with a functional ROPS and seat belt and require that the employee operator
securely fasten the safety belt and operate with the ROPS in the raised position at all times.
6. Forbid the employee operator to carry additional riders on the Tractor or Implement.
7. Provide the required tools to maintain the Tractor and Implement in a good safe working condition and provide the
necessary support devices to secure the equipment safely while performing repairs and service.
8. Require that the employee operator stop operation if bystanders or passersby come within 300 feet.
Child Labor Under 16 Years of Age
Some regulations specify that no one under the age of 16 may operate power machinery. It is your responsibility to
know what these regulations are in your own area or situation. (Refer to U.S. Dept. of Labor, Employment Standard
Administration, Wage & Home Division, Child Labor Bulletin #102.)
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Introduction Section 2-1
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION SECTION
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INTRODUCTION
290 Series 05/12 Introduction Section 2-2
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION
We are pleased to have you as a Bush Hog customer. Your Rotary Cutter has been carefully designed with
care and built with quality materials by skilled workers to give maximum service with minimum down time. This
manual is provided to give you the necessary operating and maintenance instructions for keeping your rotary
cutter in top operating condition. Careful use and timely service saves extensive repairs and costly downtime
losses. Please read this manual thoroughly. Understand what each control is for and how to use it.
Bush Hog typically offers three types of shielding to protect the operator, passerby, livestock, and property from
thrown objects... deflectors, single chain guards, and double chainguards. Shielding should be selected based
on the intended use of the mower. Double chain guards or deflectors should be used for highway, right-of-way,
parks or greenbelt mowing or all other mowing where human dwellings, vehicles, or livestock could be within
300 feet of the mower. Chain guards are more durable, provide a longer service life and require less
maintenance and replacement than deflectors. Single chain guards may be sufficient for agriculture and other
mower use only where passersby or property are not within 300 feet of the mower during operation.
No shielding is 100% effective in preventing thrown objects. The possibility of injury and property damage from
this hazard can be substantially reduce by selecting proper shielding, maintaining the mower and shielding in
good operational condition, inspecting the area for foreign debris before mowing, operating the mower at a
minimum cutting height of 4", and keep unprotected persons at a minimum distance of 300 feet from the
mower at all times during operation.
Safety is of primary importance to the owner/operator and to the manufacturer. Observe all safety precaution
decals on the machine and noted throughout the manual for safe operation of implement. If any assistance or
additional information is needed, contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer. The owner/operator/dealer should
know and understand the Safety Messages before assembly and be aware of the hazards of operating this
cutter during assembly, use, and maintenance. The Safety Alert Symbol combined with a Signal Word, as seen
below, is intended to warn the owner/operator of impending hazards and the degree of possible injury faced
when operating this machine.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, WILL result in DEATH OR
VERY SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, COULD result in DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, MAY result in MINOR
INJURY.
Identifies special instructions or procedures that, if not strictly observed, could result in
damage to, or destruction of the machine, attachments or the environment.
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INTRODUCTION
290 Series 05/12 Introduction Section 2-3
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION
The 290 Series Rotary Cutters are designed for medium duty applications such as grass, corn stalks and light
brush to 3” diameter. These cutters are single spindle with two free-swinging blades. Free-swinging blades
reduce the shock of impact when a stationary object is hit. Additional protection is provided by slip clutch on the
gearbox input shaft. All models are attached to the tractor using a standard Cat. l or ll 3-point hitch or quick
hitch. Standard equipment includes driveline shields, clutch shields and front and rear discharge shields
(deflectors).
Equipment Specifications
290 296 297
Cutting Width 60” 72” 84”
Transport Width 66” 78” 90”
Length 104” 116” 128” - Single Wheel
121” - Dual Wheel
Cutting Height 1-1/2” - 10-1/2” 1-1/2” - 10-1/2” 1-1/2” - 10-1/2”
Tractor HP (Minimum) 35 HP 45 HP 55 HP
Cutting Capacity (max) 3” 3” 3”
Weight (Approximate) 950 bs 1139 lbs. 1461 lbs. - Single Wheel
1522 lbs. - Dual Wheel
Hitch Cat. l & Cat ll & QH Cat. l & Cat ll & QH Cat. l & Cat ll & QH
Top Deck 10 Ga. Steel 10 Ga. Steel 10 Ga. Steel
Side Bands 1/4” x 13” 1/4” x 13” 1/4” x 13”
Blade Tip Speed 15,551 ft./min. 15,268 ft./min. 15,268 ft./min. (540 rpm)
15,047 ft./min. (1000 rpm)
Blades 1/2” x 4” Uplift 1/2” x 4” Uplift 1/2” x 4” Uplift
Wheels Laminated Laminated Laminated
Driveshaft ASABE Cat 4 ASABE Cat 4 ASABE Cat 4
Gearbox 540 RPM (130 HP) 540 RPM (130 HP) 540 RPM (130 HP)
Slip Clutch Standard Standard Standard
Guarding Front and Rear Deflector belting is standard, Chain Guards are optional
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INTRODUCTION
290 Series 05/12 Introduction Section 2-4
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION
KEY OPERATION POINTS
• Cutting performance and distribution are best when cutter is level from side to side and front to rear.
• In extra heavy material, rear chains will allow better discharge and better distribution than solid rear bands.
• Never operate the Mower below full PTO speed of 540 rpm.
• Corn should be cut at 5 to 6 mph. If full PTO rpm cannot be maintained, use one lower gear.
Operating Noise Level/Sound Pressure
The sound levels at the operator's ear from the attached machine (rotary cutter) are at least 10 dB(A) below the
levels from typical Agricultural tractors used to power and transport this machine. Therefore, the Noise
emission values given by the OEM of the Agricultural tractor used to power and transport this machine would
be valid when this machine is attached to and operated by that Agricultural tractor in all OEM recommended
applications.
Warranty information
In addition to the standard Limited Warranty shown on the facing page, Bush Hog also provides:
1. A FIVE-YEAR (60 months) LIMITED WARRANTY* on GEARBOX components provided they have been
properly maintained† and have not been subjected to abuse or mis-use except as limited below.
* WARRANTY LIMITATIONS - GEARBOX
A. Warranty is ONE-YEAR (12 MONTHS) for Seals (After one year, seals are considered to be WEARING
PARTS and replacement is the users' responsibility.)
B. Users' Gearboxes may be rebuilt by Bush Hog or replaced by new or rebuilt Gearboxes at the option of
Bush Hog.
2. ONE-YEAR (12 months) LIMITED WARRANTY** on the DRIVELINE components provided they have been
properly maintained† and have not been subjected to abuse or mis-use.
* *WARRANTY LIMITATIONS - DRIVELINE
A. Warranty is ONE-YEAR (12 MONTHS) for DRIVELINE SHIELDS except that evidence of wear from contact
with other parts on the shield voids this warranty.
B. Shield Bearings are wearing parts and are not warrantable.
C. Slip-Clutch Disks are wearing parts and are not warrantable. Evidence of “burning up” Slip Clutch Plates
due to improper adjustment will void warranty on Slip Clutch Parts.
† NOTE - “properly maintained” specifically includes, but is not limited to:
A) Running Gearboxes with the proper amount of the correct lubricant.
B) Adjusting Slip Clutches correctly to provide proper protection for Driveline and Gearbox Components.
C) Properly lubricate all driveline components as specified.
D) Maintaining proper bearing preload on all gearbox shafts.
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INTRODUCTION
290 Series 05/12 Introduction Section 2-5
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
INTRODUCTION
LIMITED WARRANTY
2222222222222222222222222222222
Bush Hog warrants to the original purchaser of any new Bush Hog equipment, purchased from an authorized
Bush Hog dealer, that the equipment be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1)
year for non-commercial, state and municipalities’ use and ninety (90) days for commercial use from date of
retail sale. The obligation of Bush Hog to the purchaser under this warranty is limited to the repair or
replacement of defective parts.
Replacement or repair parts installed in the equipment covered by this limited warranty are warranted for
ninety (90) days from the date of purchase of such part or to the expiration of the applicable new equipment
warranty period, whichever occurs later. Warranted parts shall be provided at no cost to the user at an
authorized Bush Hog dealer during regular working hours. Bush Hog reserves the right to inspect any
equipment or parts which are claimed to have been defective in material or workmanship.
DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES & CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
Bush Hog’s obligation under this limited warranty, to the extent allowed by law, is in lieu of all warranties,
implied or expressed, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE and any liability for incidental and consequential damages with respect to the sale
or use of the items warranted. Such incidental and consequential damages shall include but not be limited to:
transportation charges other than normal freight charges; cost of installation other than cost approved by Bush
Hog; duty; taxes; charges for normal service or adjustment; loss of crops or any other loss of income; rental of
substitute equipment, expenses due to loss, damage, detention or delay in the delivery of equipment or parts
resulting from acts beyond the control of Bush Hog.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL NOT APPLY:
1. To vendor items which carry their own warranties, such as engines, tires, and tubes.
1. If the unit has been subjected to misapplication, abuse, misuse, negligence, fire or other accident.
2. If parts not made or supplied by Bush Hog have been used in connection with the unit, if, in the sole
judgement of Bush Hog such use affects its performance, stability or reliability.
3. If the unit has been altered or repaired outside of an authorized Bush Hog dealership in a manner which, in
the sole judgement of Bush Hog, affects its performance, stability or reliability.
4. To normal maintenance service and normal replacement items such as gearbox lubricant, hydraulic fluid,
worn blades, or to normal deterioration of such things as belts and exterior finish due to use or exposure.
5. To expendable or wear items such as teeth, chains, sprockets, belts, springs and any other items that in
the company’s sole judgement is a wear item.
NO EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE OF BUSH HOG IS AUTHORIZED TO CHANGE THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY IN ANY WAY OR GRANT ANY OTHER WARRANTY UNLESS SUCH CHANGE IS MADE IN
WRITING AND SIGNED BY BUSH HOG’S SERVICE MANAGER, 2501 GRIFFIN AVE., SELMA, ALABAMA
36703.
2222222222222222222222222222222
Record the model number, serial number and date
purchased. This information will be helpful to your
dealer if parts or service are required.
MAKE CERTAIN THE WARRANTY
HAS BEEN FILED WITH BUSH HOG
SELMA, ALABAMA
MODEL NUMBER _________________________
SERIAL NUMBER _________________________
DATE OF RETAIL SALE ____________________
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Assembly Section 3-1
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
ASSEMBLY SECTION
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ASSEMBLY
290 Series 05/12 Assembly Section 3-2
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
ASSEMBLY
DEALER SETUP INSTRUCTIONS
Set up mower as received from factory with these instructions.
This 290 Series is shipped partially assembled. Assembly will be easier if components are aligned and loosely
assembled before tightening hardware. Refer to bolt torque chart in Maintenance Section. All fasteners are
Grade 5 unless otherwise specified.
1. Position on hard level surface.
2. Apply light coat of oil to gearbox input shaft.
“A” FRAME ASSEMBLY
1. Swing “A” Frame up to the vertical position.
2. Remove front capscrew, bushing and locknut
from the yoke.
3. Swing the pivot arm on top of the “A” Frame up
and place the bushing from the yoke in the
slotted hole in the pivot arm. Raise the yoke up
to a point that the pivot arm slotted hole with
bushing align between the yoke and the
bushing is in line with the front holes of the
yoke. NOTE: The slant cut of the pivot arm
should be resting atop the second bushing of
the yoke.
4. Re-install the capscrew through the yoke,
bushing and pivot arm. Install the locknut but
not so tight that the pivot arm cannot flex
between the yoke. Figure AsmP-R-0484.
HITCH PINS
During shipping the Hitch Pins may both be stored on one side of the lift brackets. Remove one of the hitch
pins and move to the opposite side hitch bracket. The following diagram shows proper hitch pin locations for
different hitch point set up.
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ASSEMBLY
290 Series 05/12 Assembly Section 3-3
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
ASSEMBLY
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION (Model 295 and 296)
The 295 and 296 Models are shipped from the factory with the tailwheel frames and tailwheels assembled and
attached to the mainframe.
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION - (Model 297)
The 297 can have either a single tailwheel or a dual tailwheel setup and some assembly will be necessary. On
the single tailwheel models the tailwheel frame is not attached during shipping. The dual tailwheel frame is
attached to the frame with the height adjusting plate.
1. Remove the 5/8” locknut attaching the yokes to the lift lugs on the mainframe.
2. Slide the capscrew back so the end is flush with the inside of the lugs.
3. Place the arms of the tailwheel frame between the lugs and align the holes and push the capscrew through
the tailwheel frame arms and reinstall the locknut.
4. Attach the adjusting plate to the bracket on the mainframe with the 5/8” x 2” capscrew and locknut.
5. Attach the adjusting plate to the tailwheel frame with the 5/8” x 2” capscrew, lockwasher and hex nut.
6. Install the tailwheel into the tailwheel frame with the large flatwasher between the tailwheel fork and the
tailwheel frame. Install the roll pin through the stem of the tailwheel. Figures Asm-R-0510 & Asm-R-0511.
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ASSEMBLY
290 Series 05/12 Assembly Section 3-4
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
ASSEMBLY
DRIVELINE ATTACHMENT
Before starting assembly, make certain that all paint, dirt, and grease are removed from gearbox shaft. To ease
assembly apply a light coat of grease to splines and assemble. Do not assemble a driveline without a shield.
Entanglement in rotating shafts can kill. Figure Asm-R-
Remove tapered pin from splined clutch hub on the
end of the driveshaft. Rotate the clutch shield up
over the top of the gearbox to expose the gearbox
input shaft. Slide the slip clutch end of the driveline
onto the gearbox input shaft. Make certain that the
slip clutch is fully on the input shaft splines. Align
the tapered pin hole in the hub with the grove on the
input shaft. Install the tapered pin, washer and
locknut. Torque the nut to 30 ft. lbs.
SLIP CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT AND OPERATIONAL CHECK
1. Remove filler plug on top of gearbox housing and oil level plug on right side of housing. Fill gearbox with
EP80W-90 gear oil until oil just reaches bottom of level plug hole. Allow time for oil to seep through
bearings in lower housing of gearbox and then add oil again to reach level plug hole. Replace filler plug on
top of gearbox with breather plug/dipstick supplied in Operator’s Manual Package.
2. Connect cutter to tractor’s 3-point hitch, attaching top link in holes of A-Frame struts using customer
supplied pin. Attach lower link arms to cutter deck using the pins and bushings supplied with the cutter.
Refer to Hitch Pin Setup for correct setup.
3. Connect free end of driveline to tractor PTO shaft by pulling back on collar on driveline yoke and then
sliding yoke onto shaft. Release collar and slide driveline yoke back and forth on shaft until an audible click
is heard (Ball Collar has seated in groove on PTO Shaft).
4. Loosen eight nuts retaining clutch springs by 1/3 turn or until spring can be turned with fingers.
5. Start tractor and allow tractor to idle. With tractor at idle speed, engage tractor PTO drive for 2 -3 seconds.
Clutch should slip without turning cutter blades.
6. Disengage tractor PTO and turn off tractor ignition.
7. Re-tighten nuts on clutch springs to with 1/64” of original position. Initial spring length shown below.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN NUT AND CAUSE SPRING TO BECOME SOLID AS THIS WILL
CAUSE SHAFT TO FAIL.
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Operation Section 4-1
© 2011 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION SECTION
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-2
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
BUSH HOG 290 SERIES ROTARY MOWER
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
Bush Hog rotary mowers are manufactured with quality material by skilled workers. These mowers are
designed to cut grass, weeds, small brush and other vegetative material up to 3” diameter in areas such as
pastures, industrial areas, and roadsides. The mower is equipped with protective deflectors and/or chain
guards to prevent objects being thrown from the mower by the blades, however, no shielding is 100% effective.
All shields, guards, deflectors, and chains equipped on the unit must be maintained on the mower in good
operational condition.
It is the operator’s responsibility to be knowledgeable of all potential operating hazards and to take every
reasonable precaution to ensure oneself, others, animals, and property are not injured or damaged by the
mower, tractor, or a thrown object. Do not operate the mower if passersby, pets, livestock, or property are
within 300 feet of the unit unless:
•All THROWN OBJECT SHIELDING including, Front and Rear Deflectors, Chains Guards, Steel Guards,
Bands, Side Skirts and Skid Shoes in place and in good condition when mowing.
• Mower sections or wing are adjusted to be close and parallel to ground without exposing blades.
•MOWING AREA has been inspected and foreign materials and debris have been removed.
•PASSERSBY are inside enclosed vehicle.
This section of the Operator’s Manual is designed to familiarize, instruct, and educate safe and proper mower
use to the operator. Pictures contained in this section are intended to be used as a visual aid to assist in
explaining the operation of a rotary mower. Some pictures may show shields removed for purposes of clarity.
NEVER OPERATE this implement without all shields in place and in good operational condition. The operator
must be familiar with the mower and tractor operation and all associated safety practices before operating the
mower and tractor. Proper operation of the mower, as detailed in this manual, will help ensure years of safe
and satisfactory use of the mower.
IMPORTANT: To avoid mower damage, retorque all bolts after the first 10 hours of operation. Retighten blade
carrier retaining nut on gearbox lower shaft to 450 ft. lbs.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE ENTIRE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY SECTION OF THIS
MANUAL AND THE TRACTOR MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO USE THE TRACTOR AND
IMPLEMENT. If you do not understand any of the instructions, contact your nearest authorized dealer for a
full explanation. Pay close attention to all safety signs and safety messages contained in this manual and
those affixed to the implement and tractor. OPS-U- 0001
READ, UNDERSTAND, and FOLLOW the following Safety Messages. Serious injury or
death may occur unless care is taken to follow the warnings and instructions stated in the
Safety Messages. Always use good common sense to avoid hazards. (SG-2)
Si no lee ingles, pida ayuda a alguien que si lo lea para que le traduzca las
medidas de seguridad. (SG-3)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-3
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
1. OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS
Safe operation of the unit is the responsibility of a qualified operator. A qualified operator has read and
understands the implement and tractor Operator’s Manuals and is experienced in implement and tractor
operation and all associated safety practices. In addition to the safety messages contained in this manual,
safety signs are affixed to the implement and tractor. If any part of the operation and safe use of this
equipment is not completely understood, consult an authorized dealer for a complete explanation.
If the operator cannot read the manuals for themselves or does not completely understand the operation of the
equipment, it is the responsibility of the supervisor to read and explain the manuals, safety practices, and
operating instructions to the operator.
Safe operation of equipment requires that the operator wear approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
for the job conditions when attaching, operating, servicing, and repairing the equipment. PPE is designed to
provide operator protection and includes the following safety wear:
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• Always Wear Safety Glasses
•Hard Hat
• Steel Toe Safety Footwear
• Gloves
• Hearing Protection
• Close Fitting Clothing
• Respirator or Filter Mask (depends on
operating conditions) OPS-U- 0002
DO NOT use drugs or alcohol immediately before or while operating the
Tractor and Implement. Drugs and alcohol will affect an operator’s
alertness and coordination and therefore affect the operator’s ability to
operate the equipment safely. Before operating the Tractor or Implement,
an operator on prescription or over-the-counter medication must consult
a medical professional regarding any side effects of the medication that
would hinder their ability to operate the Equipment safely. NEVER
knowingly allow anyone to operate this equipment when their alertness or
coordination is impaired. Serious injury or death to the operator or others
could result if the operator is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. (SG-27)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-4
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
2. TRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
The tractor used to operate the mower must have the power capacity to lift, pull, and operate the Power Take
Off (PTO) at the mower’s rated speed while traveling at a ground speed between 2 and 5 MPH. Operating the
mower with a tractor that does not meet the following requirements may cause tractor or mower damage and
be a potential danger to the operator and passersby.
Tractor Requirements and Capabilities
• ASAE approved Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) or ROPS cab and seat belt.
• Tractor Safety Devices..................... Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem, lighting, PTO master shield
• Tractor Horsepower:......................... 295 Mower 296 Mower 297 Mower
-Minimum ............................ 35 HP 45 HP 55 HP
• Hitch -Lift Type Mower:
- Lifting Capacity.................. 910 lbs. 1120 lbs. 1350 lbs. - Single Wheel
1460 lbs. - Dual Wheel
- 3-Point Hitch...................... CAT I, CAT ll or QHCAT I, CAT ll or QHCAT I, CAT ll or QH
• Front End Weight ............................. --------As needed to maintain 20% weight on front axle--------
2.1 ROPS and Seat Belt
The tractor must be equipped with a Roll-Over-Protective-Structure (ROPS) (tractor cab or roll-bar) and seat
belt to protect the operator from falling off the tractor, especially during a roll over where the driver could be
crushed and killed. Only operate the tractor with the ROPS in the raised position and seat belt fastened.
Tractor models not equipped with a ROPS and seat belt should have these life saving features installed by an
authorized dealer. OPS-U- 0003
Operate this Equipment only with a Tractor equipped with an approved roll-
over-protective system (ROPS). Always wear seat belts. Serious injury or
even death could result from falling off the tractor--particularly during a turnover
when the operator could be pinned under the ROPS. (SG-7)
2.2 Tractor Safety Devices
If transporting or operating the tractor and implement near a public roadway, the tractor must be equipped with
proper warning lighting and a Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem which are clearly visible from the rear of
the unit. Lights and a SMV emblem must be equipped directly on implements if the visibility of the tractor
warning signals are obscured.
Maintain all manufacturer equipped safety shields and guards. Always replace shields and guards that were
removed for access to connect, service, or repair the tractor or implement. Never operate the tractor PTO
with the PTO master shield missing or in the raised position. OPS-U- 0004
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-5
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
3. Tractor Horsepower
The power required to operate a mower is determined by the tractor PTO horsepower. For most mowing
conditions, the 295 mower requires a tractor with at least 35 HP, the 296 mower requires a tractor with at least
45 HP and the 297 mower requires a tractor with at least 55 HP. Operating the mower with a tractor that does
not have adequate power may damage the tractor engine. Exceeding recommended HP may cause mower
damage by overpowering the unit in heavy cutting conditions.
3.1 3-Point Hitch
The tractor 3-point hitch must be rated to lift at
least 910 lbs. (Model 295), 1120 lbs. (Model 296),
1460 lbs. (Model 297). These models are
designed to be mounted on a tractor with CAT I or
CAT II 3-Point or Quick Hitch.
Refer to the tractor operator’s manual for the
category of the tractor being used. If the hitch
does not conform to ASABE dimensions, the
mower may not fit or raise properly. Consult an
authorized dealer for possible modification
procedures to mount non-conforming hitches.
Depending on the hitch category, certain size pins
are used to attach the mower to the tractor. CAT I
hitches require 7/8” lower and 3/4” upper diameter
hitch pins. Quick Hitch requires 1-7/16” diameter
lower pin and 1-1/4” diameter upper pin. CAT II
hitches require 1-1/8” lower pins and 1 inch upper
pins.
Our 3-Point Quick Hitch is designed to connect to
a Quick-Attach coupler making mounting and
dismounting your mower easier. The 3-Point
Quick Hitch is also designed to connect the mower
to a tractor’s 3-point linkage without the use of a
Quick-Attach Coupler.
3.2 Power Take Off (PTO)
This mower is designed to operate at a PTO speed of 540. Most tractors operate at either 540, or a
combination of 540 and 1000 RPM PTO speeds. The operating speed of the mower and tractor can be
determined by the number of splines on the driveline yoke and PTO output shaft. Those operating at 540 RPM
will have a 6-spline shaft and those operating at 1000 RPM will have a 21-spline shaft.
If operating an older model tractor where the tractor’s transmission and PTO utilize one master clutch, an
over-running clutch must be used between the PTO output shaft and the driveline of the mower. An authorized
tractor dealer can provide the over-running clutch and its installation if needed. OPS-R- 0066_B
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-6
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
DO NOT use a PTO adapter to attach a non-matching Implement driveline to a Tractor
PTO. Use of an adapter can double the operating speed of the Implement resulting in
excessive vibration, thrown objects, and blade and implement failure. Adapter use will also
change the working length of the driveline exposing unshielded driveline areas. Serious
bodily injury and/or equipment failure can result from using a PTO adapter. Consult an
authorized dealer for assistance if the Implement driveline does not match the Tractor PTO.
(S3PT-14)
Never operate the Tractor and Mower if the Implement input driveline is directly connected
to the Tractor transmission. Tractor braking distances can be substantially increased by
the momentum of the rotating Mower blades driving the Tractor transmission even though
the Tractor clutch has been disengaged. Install an over running clutch between the Tractor
PTO and the Mower driveline to prevent this potentially dangerous situation. (S3PT-16)
4. GETTING ON AND OFF THE TRACTOR
Before getting onto the tractor, the operator must read and completely understand the implement and tractor
operator manuals. If any part of either manual is not completely understood, consult an authorized dealer for
a complete explanation. OPS-U- 0007
Do not mount or dismount the Tractor while the tractor is moving. Mount
the Tractor only when the Tractor and all moving parts are completely
stopped. (SG-12)
4.1 Boarding the Tractor
Use both hands and equipped handrails and steps for support when boarding the tractor. Never use control
levers for support when mounting the tractor. Seat yourself in the operator’s seat and secure the seat belt
around you.
Never allow passengers to ride on the tractor or attached equipment. Riders can easily fall off and be
seriously injured or killed from falling off and being ran over. It is the operator’s responsibility to forbid all extra
riders at all times. OPS-U- 0008
Never allow children to operate, ride on, or come close to the Tractor or
Implement. Usually, 16-17 year-old children who are mature and
responsible can operate the implement with adult supervision, if they
have read and understand the Operator’s Manuals, been trained in
proper operation of the tractor and Implement, and are physically large
enough to reach and operate the controls easily. (SG-11)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-7
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Never allow children or other persons to ride on the Tractor or Implement.
Falling off can result in serious injury or death. (SG-10)
4.2 Dismounting the Tractor
Before dismounting, park the tractor and implement on a reasonably level surface, apply the parking brake,
idle the engine down, disengage the PTO, and lower the implement to the ground. Shut down the tractor
engine according to the operator’s manual, remove the key, and wait for all motion to completely stop. Never
leave the seat until the tractor, its engine and all moving parts have come to a complete stop.
Use hand rails and steps when exiting the tractor. Be careful of your step and use extra caution when mud,
ice, snow or other matter has accumulated on the steps or hand rails. Use all handrails and steps for support
and never rush or jump off the tractor. OPS-U- 0009
STARTING THE TRACTOR
The operator must have a complete understanding of the placement, function, and operational use of all
tractor controls before starting the tractor. Review the tractor operator’s manual and consult an authorized
dealer for tractor operation instructions if needed.
Essential Tractor Controls:
• Locate the light control switch.
• Locate the engine shut off control.
• Locate the brake pedals and the clutch.
• Locate the PTO control.
• Locate the 3-point hitch control lever.
• Locate the hydraulic remote control levers.
Before starting the tractor ensure the following:
• Conduct all pre-start operation inspection and service according to the tractor operator’s manual.
• Make sure all guards, shields, and other safety devices are securely in place.
• The parking brake is on.
• The PTO control lever is disengaged.
• The 3-point hitch control lever is in the lowered position.
• The hydraulic remote control levers are in the neutral position.
• The tractor transmission levers are in park or neutral.
Refer to the tractor owner’s manual for tractor starting procedures. Only start the tractor while seated and
belted in the tractor operator’s seat. Never bypass the ignition switch by short circuiting the starter solenoid.
After the tractor engine is running, avoid accidental contact with the tractor transmission to prevent sudden
and unexpected tractor movement. OPS-U-0028
Never run the Tractor engine in a closed building or without adequate ventilation. The
exhaust fumes can be hazardous to your health. (SG-23)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-8
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
5.1 Connecting Mower-Lift Type
1. Make sure the tractor is equipped with the
correct PTO shaft. Change shafts if needed.
2. Shorten or remove the tractor drawbar to avoid
interference when raising and lowering the
mower.
3. Board the tractor and start the engine. Position
the tractor to the mower with the 3-point lift
arms positioned at the same height and to the
outside of the mower hitch pins.
NOTE: Set the 3-point lift control to “Position Control” so that the lift arms maintain a constant height when
attaching the mower. See the tractor Operator’s Manual for correct settings when attaching 3-point equipment.
Start tractor only when properly seated in the Tractor seat. Starting a
tractor in gear can result in injury or death. Read the Tractor operators
manual for proper starting instructions. (SG-13)
5. CONNECTING THE MOWER TO THE TRACTOR
Use extreme caution when connecting the mower to the tractor. The mower should be securely resting at
ground level or setting on blocks. Keep hands and feet from under the mower deck and clear of pinch points
between the tractor hitch arms and mower pins. OPS-R-0001
Always shut the Tractor completely down, place the transmission in park, and set the
parking brake before you or anyone else attempts to connect or disconnect the Implement
and Tractor hitches. (S3PT-15)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-9
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
4. Turn off the tractor engine and dismount.
5. One lift arm at a time, align arm end hole
between the set of A-frame lift lugs. Insert hitch
pin through the lug and arm holes and insert
retaining pin into hitch pin.
6. Walk around to opposite side and repeat
procedure for remaining lift arm and hitch pin.
7. Extend or retract 3-point top link to align its end
hole with the holes of the mower’s top link.
Insert the top link hitch pin and insert retaining
pin into hitch pin.
8. Adjust any lower link check chains, guide
blocks, or sway blocks to prevent the mower
from swaying side to side and possible contact
with tractor rear tires.
NOTE: Offset Adaptor Hitches are available to position the mower to the left or right. Mowers with Offset
Adaptor hitches connect to the 3-Point hitch the same way as the mower A-frame. See Offset Adaptor Hitch in
the Assembly Section for details to equip the mower with this feature.
5.2 3-Point Quick Hitch
Our 3-Point Quick Hitch is designed to connect to a
Quick-Attach Coupler making mounting and
dismounting your mower easier. The 3-Point Quick
Hitch is also designed to connect the cutter to a
tractor’s three-point linkage without the use of a
Quick-Attach Coupler.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-10
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
5.3 Connecting Mower - Lift Type (Quick Hitch)
Crushing Hazard between Quick-Hitch and Implement. Do not allow anyone to stand
between the Quick-Hitch and implement during hook-up operations. Never operate the
hydraulic 3-point lift controls while someone is directly behind the tractor.
1. Make certain the implement’s upper and lower
hitch pins are secured.
2. Lower the tractor’s 3-point lift until the three
Quick-Hitch hooks are lower than the
implements hitch pins. Carefully back the
tractor to align the Quick-Hitch hooks under the
implement’s hitch pins.
3. Slowly raise the tractor’s 3-point lift until the
lower Quick-hitch hooks lock into place over the
implement’s 3-point hitch pins.
IMPORTANT: Make certain the implement’s top 3-
point hitch pin is captured by the Quick-Hitch top 3-
point hook. If not consult your Quick Hitch manual
for required adjustment.
IMPORTANT: The Quick Hitch will move mower
further from tractor which will require checking the
following:
1. Driveline length
2. Tractor stability
NOTE: Offset Adapter Hitches are available to
position the mower to the left or right. Mowers with
Offset Adapter Hitches connect to the 3-point hitch
the same way as the mower A-frame. See Offset
Adapter Hitch in the Assembly Section for details to
equip the mower with this feature.
6. SETTING THE MOWER
Properly setting the cutting height is essential for efficient and safe operation. A properly set mower will make
a more uniform cut, distribute clippings more evenly, require minimal tractor work, and follow the contour of
uneven terrain. NOTE: Avoid very low cutting heights, striking the ground with the blades gives the most
damaging shock loads and will cause damage to the mower and drive. Blades contacting the ground may
cause objects to be thrown out from under the mower deck. Always avoid operating the mower at a height
which causes the blades to contact the ground. OPS-U- 0010
Never work under the Implement, the framework, or any lifted
component unless the Implement is securely supported or blocked up
to prevent sudden or inadvertent falling which could cause serious
injury or even death. (SG-14)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-11
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
6.1 Setting Mower Height- Lift Type - (Standard or Quick Hitch)
1. Park the tractor and mower on level ground.
2. Using the 3-point hitch control lever, position
the front of the mower with the side skids 1” less
off the ground than desired cut height. For
example, for a 3” cut, position the skids 2” from
the ground. Set the 3-point control lever stop at
this position to maintain this height when raising
and lowering the mower.
3. Shut down the tractor and remove the key.
4. Adjust the mower deck front to rear by
extending or retracting the 3-point top link.
Always set front of deck 3/4” lower than rear for
best performance.
5. Level the mower side to side by manipulating
one lower lift arm length. On most tractors, at
least one of the lift arms is designed to allow for
manipulation of its length. Shortening or
extending will allow for deck leveling from side
to side.
6. Securely block up the mower at this height.
7. Remove the bolts securing the tailwheel
adjusting bracket in position and allow the
tailwheel to rest at ground level. Align adjusting
bracket and reinstall. Tighten all bolts and nuts.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-12
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
8. Extend the tractor’s top 3-point link so that
when lifting the mower, the front of the deck will
raise 2 to 2½” before the tail wheel leaves the
ground. This will allow the mower to follow the
contour of uneven terrain.
NOTE: Install optional check chains when there is a problem with the hydraulic 3-Point lift maintaining a set
height or when a constant pre-adjusted cut height is required. See Check Chains in the Assembly Section for
this accessory.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-13
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
6.2 Setting Deck Pitch
Lower Horse Power - Better Fuel Efficiency
To increase fuel efficiency and lower horsepower
requirements for mower operation, the mower
should be operated with the deck approximately 3/4"
LOWER IN THE FRONT THAN THE REAR.
Operating the mower at this pitch will allow the
mower to cut the grass only once and requires less
work from the tractor.
Increase Mulching
To increase mulching of the grass or crop material
during mower operation, the mower should be
operated with the deck approximately 3/4" HIGHER
IN THE FRONT THAN THE REAR.
Operating the mower at this pitch will allow the
mower to cut the grass twice and can result in a
more even cut and improved distribution of the cut
material.
OPS-U-0041_B
7. DRIVELINE ATTACHMENT
The driveline yoke and tractor PTO shaft must be
dirt free and greased for attachment.
To connect the mower driveline to the tractor PTO
output shaft, pull the driveline yoke collar back and
align the grooves and splines of the yoke with those
of the PTO shaft. Push the driveline yoke onto the
PTO shaft, release the locking collar, and position
the yoke until the locking collar balls are seated
onto the PTO shaft. Push and pull the driveline
back and forth several times to ensure a secure
attachment. OPS-R-0003_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-14
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
7.1 Driveline Length Check
1. Raise and lower cutter to determine position
with shortest distance between the tractor PTO
shaft and gearbox input shaft. Shut down
tractor leaving cutter in position of shortest
distance. Securely block cutter in position.
2. Pull driveline apart. Attach outer section to
tractor PTO shaft. Pull on driveline section to be
sure that yoke locks into place
3. Hold driveline sections parallel to each other to
determine if too long. Each section should end
approximately 3” short of reaching universal
joint shield on opposite section. If too long,
measure 3” back from universal joint shield and
mark on opposite section. Do this for both
sections.
4. Do this for both sections.
5. Raise and lower cutter to determine position
with greatest distance between PTO shaft and
gearbox input shaft. Shut down tractor leaving
cutter in position of greatest distance. Securely
block cutter in position.
6. Hold driveline sections parallel to each other
and check for minimum 6” overlap. If driveline
has been marked for cutting, overlap will be the
distance between two marks. if driveline has
less than minimum overlap, do not use. Contact
authorized Bush Hog dealer.
NOTE: If driveline is the correct length, omit the
following steps 8 - 11 and proceed to step 12.
When attaching the Implement input driveline to the Tractor PTO, it is important that the
connecting yoke spring activated locking collar slides freely and the locking balls are seated
securely in the groove on the Tractor PTO shaft. Push and pull the driveline back and forth
several times to ensure it is securely attached. A driveline not attached correctly to the
Tractor PTO shaft could come loose and result in personal injury and damage to the
Implement. (S3PT-17)
Before operating the Implement, check to make sure the Implement input driveline will not
bottom out or become disengaged. Bottoming out occurs when the inner shaft penetrates
the outer housing until the assembly becomes solid-it can shorten no more. Bottoming out
can cause serious damage to the Tractor PTO by pushing the PTO into the Tractor and
through the support bearings or downward onto the PTO shaft, breaking it off. A broken
driveline can cause personal injury. (S3PT-18)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-15
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
7. Clamp driveline in a well padded vice to prevent
damage to the shield. Cut off shield where
marked.
8. Using cut off section of shield as a guide, cut
shaft the same amount.
9. Repeat steps for other driveline section.
10. Deburr ends of driveline sections and clean
away all chips and filings.
11. Apply multi-purpose grease to inside of outer driveline section. Assemble driveline and install on tractor
and cutter. Pull on each driveline section to be sure yokes lock into place. Make certain driveline shielding
is in place and in good condition.
12. Adjust lower lift arm(s) to level cutter right to left. Refer to tractor operator’s manual for instructions.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-16
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
8. PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND SERVICE
Before each use, a pre-operation inspection and service of the implement and tractor must be performed.
This includes routine maintenance and scheduled lubrication, inspecting that all safety devices are equipped
and functional, and performing needed repairs. DO NOT operate the unit if the pre-operation inspection
reveals any condition affecting safe operation. Perform repairs and replacement of damaged and missing
parts as soon as noticed. By performing a thorough pre-operation inspection and service, valuable down time
and repair cost can be avoided. OPS-U-0029
Always disconnect the main PTO Driveline from the Tractor before performing service on
the Implement. Never work on the Implement with the tractor PTO driveline connected and
running. Rotating Parts, Blades or Drivelines could turn without warning and cause
immediate entanglement, injury or death. (S3PT-11)
Periodically inspect all moving parts for wear and replace when
necessary with authorized service parts. Look for loose fasteners, worn
or broken parts, and leaky or loose fittings. Make sure all pins have
cotter pins and washers. Serious injury may occur from not maintaining
this machine in good working order. (SG-21)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-17
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
8.1 Tractor Pre-Operation Inspection/Service
Refer to the tractor operator’s manual to ensure a
complete pre-operation inspection and scheduled
service is performed according to the
manufacturers recommendations. The following
are some of the items that require daily service and
inspection:
• Tire condition/air pressure
• Wheel lug bolts
• Steering linkage
• PTO shield
• SMV sign is clean and visible
• Tractor’s lights are clean and functional
• Tractor Seat belt is in good condition
• Tractor ROPS is in good condition
• ROPS is in the raised position
• No tractor oil leaks
• Radiator free of debris
• Engine oil level and condition
• Engine coolant level and condition
• Power brake fluid level
• Power steering fluid level
• Fuel condition and level
• Sufficient lubrication at all lube points
• Air filter condition OPS-U-0030
8.2 Mower Pre-Operation Inspection/Service
Before each mower use, a complete inspection and service is required to ensure the mower is in a good and
safe working condition. Damaged and/or broken parts should be repaired and/or replaced immediately. To
ensure the mower is ready for operation, conduct the following. OPS-R-0007
The operator’s manual and safety signs affixed on
the unit contain important instructions on the safe
and proper use of the equipment. Maintain these
important safety features on the implement in good
condition to ensure the information is available to
the operator at all times.
• Ensure the manual canister is secured to the
equipment with the operator’s manual inside.
• Ensure all safety signs are in place and legible.
Replace missing, damaged, and illegible
decals. OPS-U- 0011
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-18
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
• Perform scheduled lubrication as detailed in
the maintenance section.
• Ensure all safety signs are in place and legible.
• Ensure the driveline is securely attached to
tractor. Make sure the driveline yoke locking
collar is securely seated in the grooves of the
PTO shaft by pushing and pulling the yoke
several times.
• Inspect that the 3-point hitch pins are the
proper size, correctly installed, and secured to
the tractor lift arms with retaining pins inserted.
OPS-R-0008_I
• Ensure deflectors and/or chainguards are in
position and not damaged. Replace worn,
broken, and missing pieces. OPS-R-0068_B
All Safety Shields, Guards and Safety devices including (but not
limited to) - the Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards, Gearbox
Shields, PTO integral shields, and Retractable Door Shields should
be used and maintained in good working condition. All safety
devices should be inspected carefully at least daily for missing or
broken components. Missing, broken, or worn items must be
replaced at once to reduce the possibility of injury or death from
thrown objects, entanglement, or blade contact. (SGM-3)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-19
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
• Lift Type-Ensure the tailwheel support bolts are
properly installed and tightened.
• Inspect all bolts and screws and tighten to the
recommended torque. OPS-R-0039_K
• Ensure the tractor PTO master shield and the
mower slip clutch shield are in place, lowered,
and in good condition.
• Ensure the driveline integral shield is in good
condition and rotates freely.
• Ensure the driveline slip clutch (if equipped) is
properly adjusted. OPS-R-0039
• Inspect the gearbox oil level. A low oil level is a
warning sign that the gearbox may be cracked
or its seal is damaged and needs replacement.
• Ensure the gearbox vent is in place and free
from clogs. OPS-R-0040_B
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-20
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
• Inspect blades and blade bolts for looseness
and excessive wear. Make sure the mower is
securely blocked up before crawling beneath.
Replace damaged, worn and missing blades as
complete sets to maintain rotary balance during
operation.
• Ensure blade pan nut is tightened with the
cotter pin inserted and spread. OPS-R-0041
8.3 Cutting Component Inspection
Inspect blade pan and blade assembly for the following:
OPS-U-0031
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-21
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Operating the mower with loose blade hardware will damage the blade holder or blades and
can result in blade breakage or blade fastener failure. Broken blades or bolts can be thrown
out from under the mower for distances up to 300 feet. When the blades are replaced, the
fastening hardware must be replaced. Check and retighten the blade hardware after the first
eight hours of operation. In severe cutting conditions, recheck the blade carrier and blade
bolt torque every 50 hours.
To help prevent structural damage caused by loose hardware, tighten gearbox mounting
hardware as specified. Check the fastener torque after first 8 hours of use and every 50
hours thereafter.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-22
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Inspect the Blades daily for abnormal wear. REPLACE BOTH BLADES on that carrier
IMMEDIATELY if either blade has:
• Become bent or deformed from it’s original shape or
• Any cracks are visible, or
• Deep gouges in the blade’s surface are present, or
• Gouges or chipped areas in the cutting edge are larger than 1/2”(12.7mm), or
• The material on the leading edge has been worn away by more than 1/2(12.7mm)”
Failure to replace abnormally worn blades may lead to catastrophic failure of the blades and ejection of the
broken part with tremendous force which may cause serious bodily injury or death. OPS-U-0032
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-23
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
8.4 Blade Bolt Inspection
Inspect Blade Bolt Head daily for wear as followed:
Inspect the Blade Bolt Heads daily for abnormal wear. REPLACE BOTH BLADE BOLTS on
the Blades IMMEDIATELY if either blade bolts has:
• Visible cracks or
• If the recessed area on blade bolt is worn off or
• If Blade Bolt has gouges or chipped areas.
Failure to replace abnormally worn blade bolts may lead to catastrophic failure of the blades and ejection of
the broken part which may cause serious bodily injury or death.
Always replace Blade Bolts with new bolts whenever replacing the Blades. OPS-U-0037
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-24
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Rotary Mower PRE-OPERATION Inspection
Mower ID#________________ Make ____________________
Date: ________________ Shift ____________________
Before conducting the inspection, make sure the tractor engine is off, all
rotation has stopped and the tractor is in park with the parking brake
engaged. Make sure the mower is resting on the ground or securely blocked
up and all hydraulic pressure has been relieved.
Operator’s Signature:
Item Condition at
Start of Shift Specific Comments if
not O.K.
The Operator’s Manual is in the canister on the mower
All safety decals are in place and legible
The tongue/hitch connection bolts & pins are tight
There are no cracks in tongue or hitch
The tow chain is secured to the tractor & mower
The hydraulic cylinders pins are tight
There are no leaking or damaged hoses
The mower deck is clear of cut grass and debris
Chain guards/deflectors are in place & in good condition
Driveline/gearbox shields are in good condition
Driveline clutches are in good condition; not frozen
Driveline telescoping members & U-joints are lubricated
Driveline yokes are securely attached to PTO & mower
Gearbox mounting bolts are tight
Gearbox oil is at the proper level
Blade carrier retaining nut is tight
Blades are not chipped, cracked or bent
Blade bolts are tight
Wheel lug nuts are tight
Transport locks are in good condition
DO NOT OPERATE an UNSAFE TRACTOR or MOWER
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-25
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Tractor PRE-OPERATION Inspection
Tractor ID#:________________________Make:________________________
Date:______________________________Shift:________________________
Before conducting the inspection, make sure the tractor engine is off, all
rotation has stopped and the tractor is in park with the parking brake
engaged. Make sure the implement is resting on the ground or securely
blocked up and all hydraulic pressure has been relieved.
Operator’s Signature:___________________________________________________
Item Condition at
Start of Shift Specific Comments if
not O.K.
The flashing lights function properly
The SMV Sign is clean and visible
The tires are in good condition with proper pressure
The wheel lug bolts are tight
The tractor brakes are in good condition
The steering linkage is in good condition
There are no visible oil leaks
The hydraulic controls function properly
The ROPS or ROBS Cab is in good condition
The seatbelt is in place and in good condition
The 3-point hitch is in good condition
The drawbar pins are securely in place
The PTO master shield is in place
The engine oil level is full
The brake fluid level is full
The power steering fluid level is full
The fuel level is adequate
The engine coolant fluid level is full
The radiator is free of debris
The air filter is in good condition
DO NOT OPERATE an UNSAFE TRACTOR or IMPLEMENT
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-26
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
9. DRIVING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT
Safe tractor transport requires the operator possess a thorough knowledge of the model being operated and
precautions to take while driving with an attached implement. Ensure the tractor has the capacity to handle the
weight of the implement and the tractor operating controls are set for safe transport. To ensure safety while
driving the tractor with an attached implement, review the following. OPS-U- 0012
Never run the Tractor engine in a closed building or without adequate ventilation. The
exhaust fumes can be hazardous to your health. (SG-23)
Transport only at speeds where you can maintain control of the
equipment. Serious accidents and injuries can result from operating this
equipment at high speeds. Understand the Tractor and Implement and
how it handles before transporting on streets and highways. Make sure the Tractor steering
and brakes are in good condition and operate properly.
Before transporting the Tractor and Implement, determine the proper transport speeds for
you and the equipment. Make sure you abide by the following rules:
Test the tractor at a slow speed and increase the speed slowly. Apply the Brakes smoothly
to determine the stopping characteristics of the Tractor and Implement. As you increase
the speed of the Tractor the stopping distance increases. Determine the maximum
transport speed not to exceed 20 mph (30 kph) for transporting this equipment.
Test the equipment at a slow speed in turns. Increase the speed through the turn only after
you determine that the equipment can be operated at a higher speed. Use extreme care
and reduce your speed when turning sharply to prevent the tractor and implement from
turning over. Determine the maximum turning speed for you and this equipment before
operating on roads or uneven ground.
Only transport the Tractor and Implement at the speeds which allow you to properly control
the equipment.
Be aware of the operating conditions. Do not operate the Tractor with weak or faulty brakes
or worn tires. When operating down a hill or on wet or rain slick roads, the braking distance
increases: use extreme care and reduce your speed. When operating in traffic always use
the Tractor’s flashing warning lights and reduce your speed. Be aware of traffic around you
and watch out for the other guy. (SG-19)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-27
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
9.1 Starting the Tractor
The procedure to start the tractor is model specific.
Refer to the tractor operator’s manual for starting
procedures for your particular tractor. Consult an
authorized dealer if the starting procedure is
unclear. Ensure the 3-point control lever is in the
lowered position and the PTO is disengaged before
starting the tractor. OPS-U-0033
9.2 Brake and Differential Lock Setting
Make sure the tractor brakes are in good operating
condition. Tractor brakes can be set to operate
independently allowing single rear wheel braking
action or locked together to provide simultaneous
rear wheel braking. FOR MOST DRIVING AND
OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE BRAKE PEDALS
SHOULD BE LOCKED TOGETHER TO PROVIDE
THE MOST EFFECTIVE BRAKING ACTION.
Always disengage the tractor differential lock when
turning. When engaged the differential lock will
prevent or limit the tractor from turning. During
normal cutting conditions, locking the differential
provides no benefit and should not be used. OPS-
U- 0013
Be aware of the operating conditions. Do not operate the Tractor with weak or faulty brakes.
When operating down a hill or on wet or rain slick roads, the braking distance increases; use
extreme care and reduce your speed in these conditions. When operating in traffic, always
use the Tractor’s flashing warning lights and reduce your speed. Be aware of traffic around
you and watch out for the other guy.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-28
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
9.3 Raising the Mower
Using the tractor 3-point hitch control lever, raise
the mower off the ground about 6”, or just high
enough to clear any ground obstacles. When
raising the mower, make sure all connection points
are securely attached and at least 1” clearance is
maintained between the driveline and the deck. If
necessary, place an upper lift stop on the 3-point
hitch control lever to limit the height the mower can
be raised to avoid driveline damage. OPS-R-0042
9.4 Driving the Tractor and Mower
Start off driving at a slow speed and gradually increase your speed while maintaining complete control of the
tractor and mower. Moving slowly at first will also prevent the tractor from rearing up and loss of steering
control. The tractor should never be operated at speeds that cannot be safely handled or which will prevent
the operator from stopping quickly during an emergency. If the power steering or engine ceases operating,
stop the tractor immediately as the tractor will be difficult to control.
Perform turns with the tractor and mower at slow
speeds to determine how the tractor with an
attached mower handles a turn. Determine the
safe speed to maintain proper control of the tractor
when making turns. When turning with a towed
implement, the overall working length of the unit is
increased. Allow additional clearance for the
mower when turning.
To avoid overturns, drive the tractor with care and
at safe speeds, especially when operating over
rough ground, crossing ditches or slopes, and
turning corners. Tractor wheel tread spacing
should be increased when working on inclines or
rough ground to reduce the possibility of tipping.
Use extreme caution when operating on steep
slopes. Keep the tractor in a low gear when going
downhill. DO NOT coast or free-wheel downhill.
OPS-R-0019
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-29
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
9.5 Crossing Ditches and Steep Inclines
When crossing ditches with steep banks or going up
sharp inclines, it is possible that the main driveline
inner profile will penetrate into the outer housing to its
maximum depth until the assembly becomes solid
(driveline is at its extreme shortest length). This type
of abusive operation can cause serious damage to
the tractor and mower drive by pushing the PTO into
the tractor and through the support bearings or
downward onto the PTO shaft, breaking it off.
Damage resulting from over-collapse of the driveline’s inner profile and its outer housing
may allow the driveline to come loose from the Tractor which could cause bodily injury to the
operator or bystanders and/or extensive damage to the Tractor or Implement. OPS-R-0020
When confronted with an incline or ditch, do not
approach from an angle which is perpendicular or
straight on as damage to or over-collapse of the
driveline may occur. OPS-R-0021_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-30
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Inclines and ditches should be approached along a
line which is at an angle as shown. This type of
path will reduce the possibility of over-collapse of
the driveline and resulting damage. If the gradient
is so steep that such an approach increases the
possibility of a tractor roll-over, select an alternate
crossing path.
When operating the tractor and mower across
slopes and inclines, through ditches, and other
uneven terrain conditions, it is important to maintain
sufficient deck to ground clearance. Blade contact
with the ground may cause soil, rocks and other
debris to be thrown out from under the mower
resulting in possible injury and/or property damage.
Ground contact also produces a severe shock load
on the mower drive and to the mower blades
resulting in possible damage and premature wear.
OPS-R-0022
10. OPERATING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT
THE OPERATOR MUST COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND HOW TO OPERATE THE TRACTOR AND
IMPLEMENT AND ALL CONTROLS BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE. The operator must read and
understand the Safety and Operation Sections of the implement and tractor operator’s manuals. These
manuals must be read and explained to any operator who cannot read. Never allow someone to operate the
implement and tractor without complete operating instructions.
Before starting any operation, the operator must become familiar with the area to be worked in and any
obstacles and hazards contained within to ensure safety to the operator, bystanders, and equipment. Special
attention should be paid to foreign debris, rough terrain, steep slopes, and passersby and animals in the area.
OPS-U- 0015
Extreme care should be taken when operating near loose objects such
as gravel, rocks, wire, and other debris. Inspect the area before
mowing. Foreign objects should be removed from the site to prevent
machine damage and/or bodily injury or even death. Any objects that
cannot be removed must be clearly marked and carefully avoided by the
operator. Stop mowing immediately if blades strike a foreign object.
Repair all damage and make certain rotor or blade carrier is balanced
before resuming mowing. (SGM-05)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-31
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Many varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or chains, can become entangled in the
operating parts of the mower head. These items could then swing outside the housing at
greater velocities than the blades. Such a situation is extremely hazardous and could result
in serious injury or even death. Inspect the cutting area for such objects before mowing.
Remove any like object from the site. Never allow the cutting blades to contact such items.
(SGM-06)
10.1 Foreign Debris Hazards
Before mowing, inspect the area to make sure
there are no foreign objects that the mower blades
could hit or become entangled with. Remove all
foreign objects and debris. If objects are too big to
remove, mark them clearly and be sure to prevent
the mower blades from contacting them.
If you hit a solid object or foreign debris, stop the
mower and tractor at once. Immediately idle the
engine speed and disengage the PTO. Wait for all
mower rotating motion to stop, then raise the
mower and move the tractor and implement off the
object. Inspect the area and remove, or mark the
location of the debris. Inspect the condition of the
mower and make any needed repairs immediately.
Make sure the blades are not damaged and the
carrier is balanced before resuming operation.
Always wear your seat belt securely fastened and
only operate the tractor and mower with the ROPS
in the raised position. If the tractor or mower hits a
tree stump, rock, or bump, a sudden movement
could throw you off of the seat and under the
tractor and/or mower. The seat belt is your best
protection from falling off the tractor and the ROPS
provides protection from being crushed during a
tractor roll-over. OPS-R-0023
Remove Foreign Material
Raise Mower over solid objects
10.2 Bystanders/Passersby Precautions
If a bystander comes within 300 feet of the tractor while the mower is being operated, stop the tractor at once,
idle the engine and disengage the PTO. Do not engage the PTO again until all bystanders are well past the
300 foot distance. OPS-R-0024
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-32
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Rotary Mowers are capable under adverse conditions of throwing
objects for great distances (300 ft (100 m) or more) and causing serious
injury or death. Follow safety messages carefully.
STOP MOWING IF PASSERSBY ARE WITHIN 300 Feet (100 m) UNLESS:
-Front and Rear Deflectors, Chain Guards, or Bands are installed and in good, workable
condition;
-Mower sections or Wings are running close to and parallel to the ground without exposed
Blades;
-Passersby are outside the existing thrown-object zone;
-All areas have been thoroughly inspected and all foreign material such as rocks, cans,
glass, and general debris has been removed.
NOTE: Where there are grass and weeds high enough to hide debris that could be struck
by the blades, the area should be: inspected and large debris removed, mowed at an
intermediate height, inspected, closely with any remaining debris being removed, and
mowed again at desired final height. (This will also reduce power required to mow, reduce
wear and tear on the Mower drivetrain, spread cut material better, reduce streaking, and
make the final cut more uniform). (SRM-01)
10.3 Engaging the Power Take Off (PTO)
Before engaging the PTO, make certain that the area is clear of bystanders and passersby. The implement
must be completely lowered and the deck positioned at a safe operating height. NEVER engage the PTO with
the implement in the raised position.
Set the tractor engine speed at approximately 1,000 RPM before engaging the PTO. Shift the PTO control to
the on position, and slowly increase the engine speed until the PTO is operating at the rated speed. If you
hear unusual noises or see or feel abnormal vibrations, disengage the PTO immediately. Inspect the
implement to determine the cause of the noise or vibration and repair the abnormality. OPS-U- 0027
Do not let the Blades turn when the Mower Deck is raised for any
reason, including clearance or for turning. Raising the Mower deck
exposes the Cutting Blades which creates a potentially serious hazard
and could cause serious injury or even death from objects thrown from
the Blades. (SRM-07)
Do not put hands or feet under mower decks. Blade Contact can result
in serious injury or even death. Stay away until all motion has stopped
and the decks are securely blocked up. (SGM-09)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-33
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
10.4 PTO RPM and Ground Speed
Ground speed for mowing will depend upon the height, type, and density of vegetation to be cut.
Recommended speed for efficient mower performance is between 2 and 5 mph(3-8 kph). Operate the mower
at its full rated PTO speed to maintain blade speed for a clean cut. Refer to the tractor operator’s manual or
the tractor instrument panel for the engine speed and gear to provide the required PTO and desired ground
speed. Make sure that the mower is operating at its full rated speed before entering the vegetation to be cut.
If it becomes necessary to temporarily regulate engine speed, increase or decrease the throttle gradually.
Ground speed is achieved by transmission gear selection and not by the engine operating speed. The
operator may be required to experiment with several gear range combinations to determine the best gear and
range which provides the most ideal performance from the mower and most efficient tractor operation. As the
severity of cutting conditions increase, the ground speed should be decreased by selecting a lower gear to
maintain the proper operating PTO speed. OPS-R-0025
Do not exceed the rated PTO speed for the Implement. Excessive PTO speeds can cause
Implement driveline or blade failures resulting in serious injury or death. (SG-26)
Mow at the speed that you can safely operate and control the tractor and mower. The
correct mowing speed depends on terrain condition and grass type, density, and height of
cut. Normal ground speed range is from 2 to 5 mph(3-8 kph). Use slow mowing speeds
when operating on or near steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power
lines, or when debris and foreign objects are to be avoided. (SGM-07)
10.5 Operating the Mower
Only operate the mower from the tractor operator’s seat with the seatbelt securely fastened. The tractor must
be equipped with a ROPS in the raised position or a ROPS cab.
The mower is designed to cut vegetation up to 3” in diameter. 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 the PTO operating speed to prevent overloading the mower and tractor. Choose a driving pattern
that provides the maximum pass length and minimizes turning.
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some grasses down preventing them from being cut at the
same height as the surrounding area. When this occurs, reduce the tractor ground speed while maintaining
the operating speed of the mower. A slower ground speed will permit grasses to at least partially rebound and
be cut. Taking a partial cut and/or reversing the direction of travel may also help produce a cleaner cut.
Avoid mowing in the reverse direction when possible. In situations where the mower must be backed to
access areas to be cut, make sure there are no persons or other foreign debris behind the mower before
mowing in reverse. When mowing in reverse, operate the tractor and mower at a reduced ground speed to
ensure tractor and mower control is maintained. OPS-R-0026_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-34
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Do not mow with two machines in the same area except with Cab tractors with the windows
closed. (SGM-11)
Mow only in conditions where you have clear visibility in daylight or with adequate artificial
lighting. Never mow in darkness or foggy conditions where you cannot clearly see at least
300 feet (90 m) in front and to the sides of the tractor and mower. Make sure that you can
clearly see and identify passersby, steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions,
power lines, debris and foreign objects. If you are unable to clearly see these type of items
discontinue mowing. (SGM-1)
Avoid mowing in reverse direction when possible. Check to make sure there are no
persons behind the mower and use extreme care when maneuvering in reverse. Mow only
at a slow ground speed where you can safely operate and control the tractor and mower.
Never mow an area that you have not inspected and removed debris or foreign material.
(SGM-08)
Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of equipment and grass fires
while operating, servicing, and repairing the Mower and Tractor:
-Equip the Tractor with a fire extinguisher in an accesible location.
-Do Not operate the Mower on a Tractor with an underframe exhaust.
-Do Not smoke or have an open flame near the Mower and Tractor.
-Do Not drive into burning debris or freshly burnt areas.
-Ensure slip clutches are properly adjusted to prevent excessive slippage and plate heating.
-Never allow clippings or debris to collect near drivelines, slip clutches, and gearboxes.
Periodically shut down the Tractor and Mower and clean clippings and collected debris from
the mower deck. (SGM-12)
When you get to the end of a pass, slightly raise the
mower (2-4”) before turning. Never raise the
mower entirely while the blades are turning. If the
mower must be raised higher than 12” from ground
level, disengage the tractor PTO and wait for all
mower rotation to come to a complete stop before
proceeding to raise the mower. OPS-R-0027_B
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-35
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Do not let the Blades turn when the Mower Deck is raised for any
reason, including clearance or for turning. Raising the Mower deck
exposes the Cutting Blades which creates a potentially serious hazard
and could cause serious injury or even death from objects thrown from
the Blades. (SRM-07)
Large, dense, or wet vegetation may need to be
mowed in two or more passes to achieve a uniform
cut. In such conditions, raise the cutting height to
12” or more on the first pass. OPS-R-0043
Then lower the mower to the desired height and
mow the vegetation a second time. If possible,
select a mowing pattern that is at a 90 degree angle
to the first pass to reduce streaking for a more
uniform cut. OPS-R-0044
Stay alert and watch for trees, low hanging limbs,
power lines, and other overhead obstacles and solid
ground objects while you are operating. Use care
to avoid hitting these items. OPS-R-0028_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-36
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Do not mow, or drive the tractor into material that is burning, or areas that recently burnt and may contain hot
spots. Burning material, sparks, and coals could be thrown from the mower to areas of vegetation that might
ignite. Tire damage can occur when driving over hot material. Oil and grease on the tractor and mower could
ignite resulting in equipment destruction. Carry a fire extinguisher on the tractor at all times to extinguish
possible fires encountered.
•USE DOUBLE CHAIN GUARDS for highway, right-of-way, parks, greenbelt mowing, or all other mowing
where human dwellings, vehicles, or livestock could be within 300 feet of the mower.
• No shielding is 100% effective in preventing thrown objects. To Reduce Possibility of Injury:
1. MAINTAIN MOWER SHIELDING in good operational condition,
2. DAILY INSPECT the condition of the Thrown Object Guards, mower Side Skirts, and skid shoes:
Replace or repair worn or damaged guards.
3. DAILY INSPECT the condition of the Blades and Blade Bolts. Replace any cracked, worn, bent or
damage blades. Always replace blade bolts and nuts when replacing blades. Make sure the blade
bolts are properly tightened.
4. RAISE CUTTING HEIGHT to 6 INCHES minimum.
5. INSPECT AREA thoroughly before mowing to REMOVE potential THROWN OBJECT HAZARDS.
6. NEVER ALLOW BLADES to CONTACT SOLID OBJECTS like wire, rocks, posts, curbs, guardrails,
or ground while mowing.
ROTARY MOWERS CAN THROW OBJECTS 300 FEET OR MORE UNDER ADVERSE
CONDITIONS.
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO OPERATOR OR BYSTANDERS FROM THROWN
OBJECTS:
INSPECT AREA FOR POTENTIAL THROWN OBJECTS BEFORE MOWING:
•REMOVE debris, rocks, wire, cable, metal objects and other foreign material from area.
Wire, cable, rope, chains and metal objects can be thrown or swung outside deck with great velocity:
1. MARK objects that cannot be removed.
2. AVOID these objects when mowing.
STOP MOWING IF PASSERSBY IS WITHIN 300 FEET UNLESS:
• All THROWN OBJECT SHIELDING including Front and Rear Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards,
Bands, Side Skirts and Skid Shoes are in place and in good condition when mowing.
• Mower sections or wings are adjusted to be close and parallel to ground without exposing blades.
•MOWING AREA has been inspected and foreign materials and debris have been removed.
•PASSERSBY are inside enclosed vehicle. OPS-U-0040
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-37
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Never stand or allow another person to stand between a running Tractor and the Mower
when disconnecting the Implement from the Tractor 3-point hitch.
10.6 Shutting Down the Implement
To shut down attached mower head, first bring the
tractor to a complete stop. Decrease engine RPM
to idle then disengage cutterhead. The mower head
will come to a complete stop within a suitable
amount of time. Do not engage or disengage the
cutterheads at a high RPM unless there is an
emergency situation.
Park the tractor on a level surface, place the
transmission in park or neutral and apply the
parking brake, lower the attached implement to the
ground, shut down the engine, remove the key, and
wait for all motion to come to a complete stop
before exiting the tractor. OPS-U- 0016
11. DISCONNECTING THE MOWER FROM THE TRACTOR
Before disconnecting the mower, the PTO must be
disengaged and blade rotation at a complete stop.
Move the mower to a level storage location and
lower it to the ground. If the mower is not resting
securely on the ground, block the mower up
securely before attempting to disconnect it from
the tractor.
Use extreme care to keep feet and hands from
under the mower and clear of any pinch points
caused by the tractor hitch arms and mower pins.
OPS-R-0030_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-38
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Always shut the Tractor completely down, place the transmission in park, and set the
parking brake before you or anyone else attempts to connect or disconnect the Implement
and Tractor hitches. (S3PT-15)
To disconnect the mower, first extend the tractor 3-
point hitch top link to remove tension on the top link
hitch pin. When the pin is loose and easy to rotate,
remove the pin from the mower. Next remove both
lower hitch pins.
After disconnecting the 3 lift points, remove the
mower driveline from the tractor PTO shaft. Lay
the driveline down carefully on support flat to avoid
damaging the driveline or its shield. Do not let the
driveline fall into mud or dirt, which can
contaminate the bearing and shorten the life of the
driveline. OPS-R-0031_B
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-39
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
12. MOWER STORAGE
Properly preparing and storing the mower at the end of the season is critical to maintaining its appearance
and to help ensure years of dependable service. The following are suggested storage procedures:
• Thoroughly clean all debris off the mower to
prevent damage from rotting grass and
standing water.
• Lubricate all mower grease points and fill
gearbox oil levels as detailed in the
maintenance section.
• Tighten all bolts and pins to the recommended
torque.
• Check the mower for worn and damaged
parts. Perform repairs and make
replacements immediately so that the mower
will be ready for use at the start of the next
season.
• Store the mower in a clean, dry place with the
mower housing resting securely on blocks or
at ground level.
• Keep the driveline yoke from sitting in water, dirt and other contaminants.
• Use spray touch-up enamel where necessary to prevent rust and maintain the appearance of the mower.
It is critical that driveline clutches slip when an obstacle or heavy load is encountered to avoid mower and/or
tractor damage. If the mower sits outside for an extended period of time or is exposed to rain and/or humid
air, the clutch lining plates must be inspected to ensure they are not frozen together from rust or corrosion. If
the mower has been exposed to such conditions, at the start of each mowing season, and any time it is
suspected that the slip clutch plates may be frozen together, readjust the slip clutch as detailed in Seasonal
Clutch Maintenance of the maintenance section in this manual. OPS-R-0032_A
Never allow children or other persons to ride on the Tractor or Implement.
Falling off can result in serious injury or death. (SG-10)
13. TRANSPORTING THE TRACTOR AND IMPLEMENT
Inherent hazards of operating the tractor and implement and the possibility of accidents are not left behind
when you finish working in an area. Therefore, the operator must employ good judgement and safe operation
practices when transporting the tractor and implement between locations. By using good judgement and
following safe transport procedures, the possibility of accidents while moving between locations can be
substantially minimized. OPS-U- 0017
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-40
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Before transporting the tractor and mower, idle the
tractor engine, disengage the PTO and wait for all
mower moving parts to come to a complete stop.
Once all mower parts are completely stopped, raise
the mower to transport height. NOTE: When
raising the mower, maintain 1” clearance between
the driveline and mower deck. If additional mower
deck height is needed for safe transport, disconnect
the driveline from the tractor and secure its end to
the mower deck. The mower can then be raised to
the maximum lift height. OPS-R-0033_A
If the tractor’s hydraulic pump is not independent of
the tractor PTO, or if the tractor PTO has to be run
to have hydraulic power, disconnect the mower
driveline from the tractor PTO output shaft. Secure
the driveline to the mower deck to prevent driveline
damage or loss during transport. OPS-R-0034
13.1 Transporting on Public Roadways
Extreme caution should be used when transporting the tractor and implement on public roadways. The tractor
must be equipped with all required safety warning features including a SMV emblem and flashing warning
lights to alert drivers of the tractor’s presence. Remember that roadways are primarily designed for
automotive drivers and most drivers will not be looking out for you, therefore, you must look out for them.
Check your side view mirrors frequently and remember that vehicles will approach quickly because of the
tractor’s slower speed. Be extremely cautious when the piece of equipment that you are towing is wider than
the tractor tire width and/or extends beyond your lane of the road.
Make sure that a proper size safety tow chain is secured between the tractor and implement before entering a
public road. OPS-U- 0019
Make certain that the “Slow Moving Vehicle” (SMV) sign is installed in
such a way as to be clearly visible and legible. When transporting the
Equipment use the Tractor flashing warning lights and follow all local
traffic regulations. (SG-6)
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-41
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
The SMV (Slow-Moving Vehicle) emblem is
universal symbol used to alert drivers of the
presence of equipment traveling on roadways at a
slow speed. SMV signs are a triangular bright
orange with reflective red trim for both easy day
and night visibility. Make sure the SMV sign is
clean and visible from the rear of the unit before
transporting the tractor and implement on a public
roadway. Replace the SMV emblem if faded,
damaged, or no longer reflective. OPS-U- 0020
Make sure that all tractor flashing warning lights,
headlights, and brake/tail lights are functioning
properly before proceeding onto public roads. While
newer model tractors have plenty of lighting to
provide warning signals and operating lighting, most
older models are only equipped with operating lights.
Consult an authorized tractor dealer for lighting kits
and modifications available to upgrade the lighting on
older tractor models. OPS-U- 0021
When operating on public roads, have
consideration for other road users. Pull to the side
of the road occasionally to allow all following traffic
to pass. Do not exceed the legal speed limit set in
your country for agricultural tractors. Always stay
alert when transporting the tractor and implement
on public roads. Use caution and reduce speed if
other vehicles or pedestrians are in the area. OPS-
U- 0022_A
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-42
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
13.2 Hauling the Tractor and Implement
Before transporting a loaded tractor and implement, measure the height and width dimensions and gross
weight of the complete loaded unit. Ensure that the load will be in compliance with the legal limits set for the
areas that will be traveled through
Use adequately sized and rated trailers and equipment to transport the tractor and implement. Consult an
authorized dealer to determine the proper equipment required. Using adequately sized chains, heavy duty
straps, cables and/or binders, securely tie down both the front and rear of the tractor utilizing the proper tie
down locations as specified by the tractor manufacturer.
Arrange the chains so that when tightened, the chains are pulling downward and against themselves. Carefully
tighten the securing chains or other fasteners using boomers or binders to apply maximum tension. Use
extreme care when attaching and removing the securing devices as the extreme tension involved when
released has the potential to inflict serious injury.
While hauling the tractor and implement, make occasional stops to check that the tractor and implement have
not moved or shifted and that the securing chains have maintained tension. If during transport a hard braking,
sharp turning, or swerving action was performed, stop at the next safe location to inspect the security of the
load.
Reduce speed before turning or applying the brakes.
Ensure that both brake pedals are locked together
when operating on public roads. OPS-U- 0023
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-43
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
14. TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem Possible Cause Remedy
Uneven Cut Excessive ground speed. Reduce ground speed.
Blades worn, dull, or bent. Replace blades.
(Refer to “Maintenance” section).
Mower not level side to side. Adjust. (Refer to “Assembly” section)
Improper height adjustment. Adjust Mower height.
(Refer to “Assembly” section)
Low tractor tire pressure on Adjust tire pressure. (Refer to your
one side. tractor operator’s manual)
operator's manual)
Turning too fast. Reduce ground speed when turning.
Tractor tires push grass down. Adjust your tractor wheel spacing.
(Refer to “Operation” section)
Damaged Mower pan. Repair or replace as necessary.
Uncut Material Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed.
RPM too low Use full PTO speed.
(Refer to your tractor operator’s manual
Improper blade for direction of cut. Install blades so rotation is correct.
Poor Shredding Excessive ground speed. Raise the front of Mower relative to the
rear to hold and circulate material
longer. (Refer to the “Operation Section
-Setting the Mower Setting Deck
Height”) Reduce ground speed.
Cutting too high. Lower cutting height. (Refer to the
“Operation Section-Setting the Mower-
Setting Deck Pitch”)
Windrowing or Uneven Material heavy and lush. Raise the front of Mower relative to the
or Uneven Material rear. (Refer to the “Operation Section-
Distribution Setting the Mower-Setting Deck
Height”)
Excessive ground speed Reduce ground speed.
Conditions too wet. Wait for conditions to dry. Reduce
ground speed.
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OPERATION
290 Series 05/12 Operation Section 4-44
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
Blade Bolts Working Loose Bolts not tightened. Tighten Bolts.
(Refer to “Maintenance” Section)
Bolt hole elongated or oversized. Replace Blade Carrier.
Lockwasher broken. Replace Locknut.
Gearbox Noisy Low Lubricant. Check lubricant level.
Rough gears. Run in or change Gears.
Worn Bearing. Replace Bearing.
Gearbox Leaking Damaged Oil Seal. Replace Seal.
Bent Shaft. Replace Oil Seal and Shaft.
Oil Seal Race rough. Replace Shaft or repair Race.
Oil Seal installed wrong. Replace Seal.
Oil Seal not sealing in the housing. Replace Seal or use a sealant on O.D.
of Seal.
Oil level too high. Drain oil to proper level.
Gasket damaged. Replace Gasket.
Bolts loose. Tighten Bolts.
Sand hole in casting. Replace castings or gearbox.
Streaking Conditions Conditions too wet for cutting. Allow grass to dry before cutting. Slow
Blades unable to cut that part of ground speed of tractor but keep
grass pressed down by path of engine running at full PTO wpm.
tractor tires. Lowering the cutting height may help.
Dull blades. Sharpen or replace blades.
Height of cutter lower at rear or See Cutting Height Instructions.
front.
Gearbox Overheating Low on lubricant. Fill to level plug.
Improper type lubricant. Replace with proper lubricant.
Excessive trash build-up around Remove trash.
gearbox.
Bearing or gears set up improperly. Consult your Dealer.
Shear Pin Shears Tractor PTO not being run at Run at 540 RPM.
Excessively 540 RPM.
Heavy Material. Reduce ground speed. Raise cutting
height.
Not using proper pin. Replace only with recommended shear
pin.
PTO engaged at high engine RPM Idle engine to engage PTO
Cutting in rocky conditions Increase cutting height.
Blade carrier RPM too high. Check gearbox ratios.
Blades not properly heat treated. Consult your Dealer.
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Maintenance Section 5-1
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE SECTION
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-2
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
HAZARDS WITH MAINTENANCE OF IMPLEMENT
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH FROM COMPONENT FAILURE BY KEEPING IMPLEMENT IN
GOOD OPERATING CONDITION IN PERFORMING PROPER SERVICE, REPAIRS AND
MAINTENANCE.
BEFORE PERFORMING SERVICE, REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE ON THE IMPLEMENT:
• STOP ENGINE AND PTO, engage parking brake, lower implement, allow all moving parts to stop and remove key before
dismounting from tractor.
•PLACE implement on ground or securely block up raised equipment. Use large blocks on soft or wet soil.
•PUSH and PULL Remote Hydraulic Cylinder lever to relieve hydraulic pressure.
• DISCONNECT IMPLEMENT driveline from tractor PTO SHAFT.
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, PROTECTIVE GLOVES and follow SAFETY PROCEDURES when performing service, repairs
and maintenance on the implement:
•Always WEAR protective GLOVES when handling blades, knives, cutting edges or worn component with sharp edges.
•Always WEAR GLOVES and SAFETY GLASSES when servicing hot components
• AVOID CONTACT with hot hydraulic oil tanks, pumps, motors, valves and hose connection surfaces.
• SECURELY support or BLOCK UP raised implement, framework and lifted components before working underneath
equipment.
•STOP any implement movements and SHUT-OFF TRACTOR engine before doing any work procedures.
•USE ladder or raised stands to reach high equipment areas inaccessible from ground.
• ENSURE good footing by standing on solid flat surfaces when getting on implement to perform work.
•FOLLOW manufacturer's instructions in handling oils, solvents, cleansers, and other chemical agents.
•DO NOT change any factory-set hydraulic calibrations to avoid component or equipment failures.
•DO NOT modify or alter implement, functions or components.
• DO NOT WELD or repair rotating mower components. These may cause vibrations and component failures being thrown
from mower.
PERFORM SERVICE, REPAIRS, LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE OUTLINED IN IMPLEMENT MAINTENANCE
SECTION:
•INSPECT for loose fasteners, worn or broken parts, leaky or loose fittings, missing or broken cotter keys and washers on
pins, and all moving parts for wear.
•REPLACE any worn or broken parts with authorized service parts.
• LUBRICATE unit as specified by lubrication schedule
• NEVER lubricate, adjust or remove material while it is running or in motion.
• TORQUE all bolts and nuts as specified.
BLADE INSPECTION:
•REPLACE bent, damage, cracked or broken blades immediately with new blades.
•AVOID blade failures and thrown broken blades. DO NOT straighten, weld, or weld hard-facing blades.
SAFETY SHIELDS, GUARDS AND SAFETY DEVICES INSPECTION:
•KEEP all Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards, Gearbox Shields, and PTO integral shields, Bands, Side Skirts and Skid
Shoes in place and in good condition.
•REPLACE any missing, broken or worn safety shields, guards and safety devices.
•Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
•Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. PN HM01
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-3
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
PARTS INFORMATION
Before operating your Rotary Cutter, make sure it is properly lubricated and thoroughly inspected. Only a
minimum of time and effort is required to regularly lubricate and maintain this machine to provide long life and
trouble free operation.
Always disengage the PTO before raising the Rotary Cutter for transporting or making
adjustments.
LUBRICATION
Do not let excess grease collect on or around parts, particularly when operating in sandy areas. The illustration
shows lubrication points (Figure Mnt-R-0487). The chart gives the frequency of lubrication in hours, based on
normal operating conditions. Severe or unusual conditions may require more frequent lubrication.
Use EP80W-90 gear oil when required in Gearbox. Use N.L.G.I #2 grease for all locations designated with
grease gun. Be sure to clean the fitting thoroughly before using grease gun. Failure to maintain proper
lubrication will result in damage to U-joints, gearbox, and/or driveshaft. Figure Mnt-R-0487
PARTS INFORMATION
Bush Hog mowers use balanced and matched system components for blade carriers, blades, cuttershafts,
knives, knife hangers, rollers, drivetrain components, and bearings. These parts are made and tested to Bush
Hog specifications. Non-genuine "will fit" parts do not consistently meet these specifications. The use of “will
fit” parts may reduce mower performance, void warranties, and present a safety hazard. Use genuine Bush
Hog mower parts for economy and safety. (SPBH-1)
SEE YOUR BUSH HOG DEALER
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-4
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-5
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
GEARBOX
The gearbox should be full (3 quarts) and not
require additional lubricant unless the box is
cracked or a seal is leaking. It is recommended that
the oil level dipstick (Figure MntP-R-0056) be
removed to check oil level after every 8 hours of
operation. If required, oil should be added until it
comes to proper level.
Recommended lubricant is EP80W-90 Gear Oil.
NOTE: Make sure mower is level when checking oil
in the gearbox.
Gearbox capacity is 3 quarts.
NOTE: Overfilling of Gearbox will cause pressure to build up and cause Grease Seals to leak.
TAIL WHEEL ASSEMBLY
Tail Wheel Bearings are packed at the factory with
heavy-duty bearing grease. Grease Fittings are
provided in the Wheel Hub and Tail Wheel Beam.
Grease after 8 hours of use. Figure Mnt-R-0488
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-6
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
BLADE SERVICING
Inspect blades before each use to determine that they are properly installed and in good condition. Replace
any blade that is bent, excessively nicked, worn, or has any other damage. Small nicks can be ground out
when sharpening.
Use only original equipment blades on this cutter. They are made of special heat-treated
alloy steel. Substitute blades may not meet specifications and may fail in a hazardous
manner that could cause injury.
Replace bent or broken blade with new blades. NEVER ATTEMPT TO STRAIGHTEN OR
WELD ON BLADES SINCE THIS WILL LIKELY CRACK OR OTHERWISE DAMAGE THE
BLADE WITH SUBSEQUENT FAILURE AND POSSIBLE SERIOUS INJURY FROM
THROWN BLADES. (SGM-10)
• Manually wiggle the blade carriers to check for any looseness.
• Retighten any loose parts.
• Recheck torque every 50 hours.
Operating with loose blade hardware will damage the blade holder and blades. Whenever
the blades have been removed or replaced, the hardware must be retightened after the first
eight hours of operation. On new units check blade hardware and the blade nut torque after
first 8 hours.
Operating with loose blade holder will damage the blade holder and output shaft, two initial
tightenings are required. Retighten after one hour and again after the day of operation. In
severe cutting conditions or commercial use, a daily inspection is required.
To help prevent structural damage caused by loose hardware, tighten gear case hardware
as specified. Check torque after first 8 hours of use and every 50 hours thereafter.
NOTE: Correct Blade Rotation is counter-clockwise viewed from the top.
Inspect Blades daily for normal wear. If Blades have a notch worn into the leading worn into
the leading edge at the lower bend more than 1/2” DEEP (due to running in gravel and/or
the ground), REPLACE BOTH BLADES ON THAT CARRIER IMMEDIATELY. Failure to
replace such abnormally worn blades may lead to catastrophic failure of the blade and
ejection of the broken part with tremendous force which may cause bodily injury or death.
NOTE: Replace Blades in pairs after no more than 1/2” notch wear.
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-7
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
BLADE SHARPENING
When sharpening blades, grind each blade the same amount to maintain balance. Follow
original sharpening pattern as shown in Figure Mnt-R-0008. Always sharpen blades by
grinding. Always sharpen both blades at same time to maintain balance. The difference in
blade weights should not exceed 1 ounce. Unbalanced blades will cause excessive
vibration which can damage gear box bearings. Vibration may also cause structural cracks
in cutter housing. DO NOT heat and pound out edge. Do not sharpen blade to a razor edge,
but leave a 1/16” blunt edge. Do not sharpen back side of blade.
Avoid personal injury. Always block the cutter up to prevent if from falling when the blades
and/ or carrier are being serviced.
BLADE CARRIER REMOVAL
Remove cotter pin and loosen slotted nut on gearbox shaft. Loosen but do not remove the nut until the blade
carrier is loosened. Use a suitable 2 jaw gear puller to pull carrier off tapered gearbox shaft. If gear puller is not
available use long bar inserted through blade bolt access hole with end against rotor bar. Strike opposite end of
bar with sledge hammer. Rotate blade carrier 180 degrees and repeat process until carrier breaks loose.
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-8
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
BLADE CARRIER INSTALLATION
Clean the splines on both the blade carrier and output shaft. Position carrier on the gearbox output shaft and
install special washer nut.
Tighten nut holding blade carrier to minimum 450 ft. pounds, strike the carrier near the hub several times with a
heavy hammer to seat the hub. Use a suitable spacer over the nut to prevent damage to the nut and threads.
Retighten the nut to 450 ft. pounds. Install cotter pin and spread.
Operating the mower with a loose blade pan or holder can damage the taper connection on
the gearbox output shaft. To ensure proper seating between the blade holder and output
shaft, check and tighten the retaining nut after the first day of operation. Recheck the blade
carrier attachment each morning before operating. Grasp the carrier firmly with both hands
and try to push and pull the carrier with one hand while pulling and pushing with the other
hand to try to rock or oscillate the blade carrier. If the carrier is loose, retighten the retaining
nut before operating the mower.
Always recheck gearbox output shaft slotted blade carrier retaining nut torque after a few
hours operation.
Avoid personal injury. Do not work under cutter without support blocks to keep frame from
falling.
BLADE REMOVAL
Remove lockwasher and nut from blade bolt through inspection hole in deck of mower near the gearbox to
remove blades for sharpening or replacement. Always replace nut and lockwasher when replacing blade bolt.
When installing blades be sure and check blade bolt pivot diameter for wear. Replace bolt if worn more than 1/
4 inch at any point. Tighten nut to 600 ft. lbs.
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-9
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
SLIP CLUTCH OPERATIONAL CHECK
NOTE: After implement has been stored for 30 days or more, perform the following operational check:
1. Loosen eight nuts retaining clutch springs 1/3 turn or until spring can be turned with fingers.
2. With tractor at idle speed, engage tractor PTO drive for 2-3 seconds. Clutch should lip without turning
blades. If clutch does not slip, contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer.
3. Retighten nuts to within 1/64” of original position. Initial spring length is shown in Figure Mnt-R-0475.
Overtightening spring nuts may cause damage to implement and/or tractor due to incorrect
slip clutch torque setting. Always follow the proper adjustment procedure.
SLIP CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT
The slip clutch is factory present to the correct torque for protecting implement and tractor. Periodic adjustment
is recommended. Should adjustment be needed, first check to be sure all spring lengths are the same. Initial
spring length is shown in Figure Mnt-R-0475. If necessary, adjust nut on any spring that is unequal. Adjust all
eight spring retaining nuts 1/3 of a turn (2 flats on a nut) and check clutch slippage. If further adjustment is
necessary, do so in 1/3 turn increments. Adjust only to provide sufficient torque to prevent slippage under
normal conditions. Occasional slippage is normal for driveline protection. If satisfactory results cannot be
obtained, consult you Bush Hog dealer.
Do not overtighten nut and cause spring to become solid as this will cause shaft to fail.
All Safety Shields, Guards and Safety devices including (but not
limited to) - the Deflectors, Chain Guards, Steel Guards, Gearbox
Shields, PTO integral shields, and Retractable Door Shields should
be used and maintained in good working condition. All safety
devices should be inspected carefully at least daily for missing or
broken components. Missing, broken, or worn items must be
replaced at once to reduce the possibility of injury or death from
thrown objects, entanglement, or blade contact. (SGM-3)
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-10
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
STORAGE
Your rotary cutter represents an investment from which you should get the greatest possible benefit. Therefore,
when the season is over, the cutter should be thoroughly checked and prepared for storage so that a minimum
amount of work will be required to put it back into operation for the next season. The following are suggested
storage procedures:
1. Thoroughly clean the cutter.
2. Lubricate the cutter as covered in Maintenance Section.
3. Tighten all bolts and pins to the recommended torque.
4. Check the cutter for worn or damaged parts. Make replacements immediately.
5. Place driveline in storage position resting on bracket.
6. Store the cutter in a clean, dry place with the cutter housing resting on blocks.
7. Use spray touch-up enamel where necessary to prevent rust and maintain the appearance of the cutter.
PROPER TORQUE FOR FASTENERS
The chart lists the correct tightening torque for fasteners. When bolts are to be tightened or replaced, refer to
this chart to determine the grade of bolts and the proper torque except when specific torque values are
assigned in manual text.
RECOMMENDED TORQUE IN FOOT POUNDS UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED IN THE MANUAL*
NOTE: These values apply to fasteners as received from supplier, dry or when lubricated with normal engine
oil. They do not apply if special graphited or molydisulphide greases or other extreme pressure lubricants are
used. This applies to both UNF fine and UNC coarse threads.
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MAINTENANCE
290 Series 05/12 Maintenance Section 5-11
© 2012 Alamo Group inc.
MAINTENANCE
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-22
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-21
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-20
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-19
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-18
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-17
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-16
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-15
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
Descripción de Calcomanía
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-14
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
INFORMACIÓN DE PARTES
NOTA: Si necessita un manual completamente en español por favor de ponerse en contacto a;
Translations, dirección 1502 E. Walnut Street Seguin, TX 78155; Fax: (830) 372-9529\
INFORMACIÓN DE PARTES
Las cortadoras BUSH HOG usan balanciadas y componentes de systema seleccionado para los portadores
de cuchillas, cuchillas, eje de cortar, navaja, suspensiones de navajas, los rodillos, los componentes de línea
motriz, y cojinetes. Estas partes son echas y probadas a la especificaciones de BUSH HOG. Partes que no
son auténticas no regularmente llegan con estas especificaciones. El uso de partes que no son auténticas
puede reducir el funcionamiento de la cortadora, anular garantias, y presentar un peligro de seguridad. Use
partes de cortadora auténticas de BUSH HOG por economía y seguridad. (SPBH-1 SP)
CONTACTE A SU DISTRIBUIDOR BUSH HOG
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-13
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGOS CON EL MANTENIMIENTO DEL IMPLEMENTO
MANTENGA LOS IMPLEMENTOS EN BUENAS CONDICIONES DE FUNCIONAMIENTO, A TRAVÉS DE
UN SERVICIO, REPARACIÓN O MANTENIMIENTO APROPIADO.
ANTES DE REALIZAR TAREAS DE SERVICIO, REPARACIÓN Y MANTENIMIENTO DEL IMPLEMENTO:
•APAGUE EL MOTOR Y EL PTO, coloque el freno de mano, descienda el implemento, espere a que se detengan todas las partes
móviles y quite la llave antes de bajarse del tractor.
•COLOQUE el implemento sobre el suelo o trabe de manera segura los equipos elevados. Utilice bloques grandes sobre suelo
blando o húmedo.
•EMPUJE y JALE la palanca del Cilindro Hidráulico Remoto para liberar la presión hidráulica.
•DESCONECTE la línea de conducción del IMPLEMENTO del EJE DE PTO del tractor.
USE GAFAS DE SEGURIDAD y GUANTES PROTECTORES y siga todos los PROCEDIMIENTOS DE SEGURIDAD al realizar
tareas de servicio, reparación y mantenimiento sobre el implemento:
•Siempre USE GUANTES protectores al manipular las hojas, cuchillas, bordes filosos o un componente desgastado con bordes
filosos.
•Siempre
USE GUANTES y GAFAS DE SEGURIDAD al reparar componentes en caliente
•EVITE EL CONTACTO con tanques de aceite hidráulico, bombas, motores, válvulas y superficies de conexión de mangueras
calientes.
•SUJETE FIRMEMENTE o TRABE EN POSICIÓN ELEVADA todos los implementos, bastidores y componentes elevados antes
de trabajar sobre los equipos que se encuentran debajo.
•DETENGA el movimiento de todos los implementos y APAGUE EL MOTOR DEL TRACTOR antes de realizar ninguna tarea.
•USE una escalera o gradas elevadas para alcanzar áreas altas del equipo a las que no se pueda acceder desde la tierra.
•ASEGÚRESE de estar bien apoyado sobre superficies sólidas planas al subirse al implemento para realizar tareas.
•SIGA las instrucciones del fabricante sobre cómo manipular los lubricantes, solventes, limpiadores y otros agentes químicos.
•NO cambie ninguna calibración hidráulica de fábrica para evitar fallas de los componentes o equipos.
•NO modifique o altere el implemento, las funciones o componentes.
•NO SUELDE o repare los componentes de la cortadora. Esto puede causar v braciones y fallas de los componentes que se
desprendan de la cortadora.
REALICE LAS TAREAS DE SERVICIO, REPARACIÓN, LUBRICACIÓN Y MANTENIMIENTO QUE SE DESCRIBEN EN LA
SECCIÓN DE MANTENIMIENTO DEL IMPLEMENTO:
•INSPECCIONE el implemento para detectar sujeciones sueltas, partes gastadas o rotas, ajustes sueltos o con filtraciones, que los
pasadores tengan chavetas y arandelas, y las partes móviles para detectar el desgaste.
•REEMPLACE todas las partes gastadas o rotas con repuestos autorizados.
•LUBRIQUE la unidad tal como se especifica en el cronograma de lubricación.
•NUNCA lubrique, ajuste o quite material mientras el equipo está en funcionamiento o movimiento.
•AJUSTE todas las tuercas y pernos tal como se especifica.
INSPECCIÓN DE CUCHILLAS:
•REEMPLACE las cuchillas dobladas, dañadas, agrietadas o rotas inmediatamente por cuchillas nuevas.
•EVITE fallas de las cuchillas y que vuelen trozos de cuchillas. NO enderece, suelde o suelde con superficies rígidas.
INSPECCIÓN DE PROTECTORES DE SEGURIDAD, GUARDAS Y DISPOSITIVOS DE SEGURIDAD:
•MANTENGA en su lugar y en buen estado todos los deflectores, protectores de cadena, protectores de acero, cubiertas de caja
de engranajes, cubiertas integrales de PTO, bandas, faldones laterales y zapatas antideslizantes.
•REEMPLACE cualquier protector, cubierta o dispositivo de seguridad faltante, roto o gastado.
• El escape del motor, al igual que algunos de sus componentes, y determinados elementos del vehículo contienen o emiten agentes
químicos que el estado de California ha determinado que causan cáncer, defectos de nacimiento y otros daños reproductivos.
• Las terminales de baterías y los accesorios relacionados contienen plomo y componentes de plomo, que el estado de California ha
determinado son químicos que causan cáncer, defectos de nacimiento u otros daños reproductivos. PN HM01 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-12
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGOS EN TRANSPORTE
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE AL REMOLCAR O TRANSPORTAR EQUIPOS:
•MANTENGA la velocidad de transporte POR DEBAJO DE 20 millas por hora para mantener el control del equipo.
•REDUZCA LA VELOCIDAD en terreno inclinado, en las curvas y en condiciones de remolque desfavorables.
•NO REMOLQUE camiones u otros vehículos
•USE un tractor de tamaño adecuado y equipado en función del equipo de remolque.
•SIGA todas las reglamentaciones de tránsito locales.
REQUISITOS DEL TRACTOR PARA REMOLCAR O TRANSPORTAR IMPLEMENTOS:
•SÓLO TRANSPORTE en el tractor con el mecanismo ROPS (antivuelco) en posición elevada.
•USE un tractor de tamaño adecuado y equipado, que supere el peso del implemento en al menos un 20%
•MANTENGA EL 20% del peso del tractor en las ruedas frontales para mantener la dirección en forma segura.
ANTES DE TRANSPORTAR O REMOLCAR EL IMPLEMENTO:
INSPECCIÓN DEL TRACTOR:
•VERIFIQUE la dirección y los frenos para asegurarse el correcto funcionamiento y las condiciones adecuadas.
•VERIFIQUE LLEVAR EL AVISO DE SMV, los reflectores y las luces de advertencia para la adecuada operación y
visibilidad detrás de la unidad.
•VERIFIQUE que no haya impedimentos a la visión mientras conduce, en el tractor, la cabina o el implemento,
sentado en el asiento del tractor.
•AJUSTE su posición de conducción, los espejos y el transporte del implemento para tener una visión clara para
condiciones de conducción y tránsito.
PREPARE EL IMPLEMENTO PARA EL TRANSPORTE O EL REMOLQUE:
•DESAPLIQUE EL PTO
•ELEVE LA CORTADORA
•QUITE todo material cortado que se acumule en la plataforma de la cortadora.
CORTADORA AL REMOLQUE-INSTALE TRABAS DE TRANSPORTE Y CADENA DE SEGURIDAD:
•INSTALE los paradores o pernos de transporte en el cilindro de eje central.
•AJUSTE LA CADENA DE SEGURIDAD del implemento al tractor.
DETERMINAR LAS CARACTERÍSTICAS DE DETENCIÓN DEL TRACTOR Y EL IMPLEMENTO PARA EL
TRANSPORTE O REMOLQUE:
PRUEBAS DE FRENADO:
•FRENE a velocidades en aumento.
• Observe las distancias de DETENCIÓN con el aumento de velocidad.
•DETERMINE la velocidad de transporte máxima segura que no supere las 20 millas por hora
DETERMINE LA VELOCIDAD DE GIRO MÁXIMA ANTES DE OPERAR EN CARRETERAS O TERRENO
IRREGULAR:
•PONGA A PRUEBA el equipo aumentando lentamente la velocidad en las curvas para determinar si se puede
operar a mayor velocidad.
•USE MENORES velocidades de giro en las curvas pronunciadas para evitar el vuelco.
AL REMOLCAR O TRANSPORTAR EL EQUIPO:
• Siempre USE EL CINTURÓN DE SEGURIDAD al operar o transportar la cortadora.
•USE bajas velocidades para evitar el vuelco con el implemento elevado.
•USE bajas velocidades y dirección gradual en las curvas, colinas, o en superficies irregulares o poco uniformes, y en
carreteras mojadas.
•ENCIENDA LAS BALIZAS DE ADVERTENCIA del tractor.
•TENGA EN CUENTA el espacio necesario para el vaivén del implemento en las curvas. PN TH02 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-11
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGOS ELÉCTRICOS Y DE FUEGO
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE POR CONTACTO ELÉCTRICO AL
TRABAJAR CERCA DE CABLES ELÉCTRICOS, LÍNEAS DE GAS Y DE SERVICIOS:
•INSPECCIONE el área de corte para que no interfiera con cables de alimentación eléctricos subterráneos,
obstrucciones, líneas de gas, cables y servicios, estructuras municipales o de otro tipo.
•MANTENGA todas las alas elevadas a 3 metros (10 pies) o una mayor distancia de todos los cables de
alimentación y obstrucciones elevadas.
•NO ponga en contacto la cortadora con ninguna estructura u obstrucción de servicios o municipales.
•LLAME AL 811 y al 1-800-258-0808 para identificar cables de servicios subterráneos.
PAUTAS DE PREVENCIÓN DE INCENDIOS durante la operación, reparación y servicio de la cortadora y el
tractor, a fin de reducir el riesgo de incendio del equipo y de la vegetación:
• El tractor debe estar EQUIPADO CON MATAFUEGOS
•NO OPERE la cortadora sobre un tractor equipado con escape debajo del bastidor
•NO FUME ni acerque fuego directo a la cortadora o el tractor
•NO CONDUZCA sobre residuos encendidos o en áreas recientemente quemadas
•EVITE LA FORMACIÓN DE CHISPAS al no permitir que la hoja de la cortadora entre en contacto con objetos
sólidos como metal o roca.
•AJUSTE LOS EMBRAGUES DESLIZANTES para evitar el deslizamiento excesivo y el calentamiento de la
placa del embrague.
•LIMPIE todo resto de hierba o residuo acumulado alrededor de las líneas de conducción de la cortadora, los
embragues deslizantes y cajas de cambios.
•APAGUE EL MOTOR al cargar combustible. PN EF02 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-10
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DEL CONTACTO A LAS CUCHILLAS DE CORTADORA
RIESGO DE FILTRACION DE ACEITE HIDRÁULICO DE ALTA PRESIÓN
MANTÉNGASE LEJOS DE LAS CUCHILLAS GIRATORIAS PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES
O LA MUERTE POR CONTACTO CON LA CUCHILLA:
•MANTÉNGASE LEJOS y NO ACERQUE LAS MANOS, LOS PIES y EL CUERPO a las cuchillas giratorias, líneas
de conducción y partes hasta que todos los elementos móviles se hayan detenido.
•NO ponga las manos o los pies debajo de las plataformas de la cortadora
•DETENGA las CUCHILLAS giratorias antes de elevar la plataforma de la cortadora o las alas
•DETENGA la cortadora, EXAMÍNELA YPRESTE ATENCIÓN A LOS SONIDOS antes de acercarse a la cortadora
para asegurarse de que se haya detenido todo el movimiento giratorio. PN MB01 SP
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE POR PENETRACIÓN DE FILTRACIONES DE
ACEITE HIDRÁULICO DE ALTA PRESIÓN:
•NO OPERE el equipo con filtraciones de aceite o combustible.
•MANTENGA todas las mangueras hidráulicas, líneas y conexiones en BUEN ESTADO y AJUSTADAS antes de
aplicar presión al sistema.
•LIBERE LA PRESIÓN HIDRÁULICA antes de desconectar las líneas o trabajar en el sistema.
•QUITE y reemplace la manguera si sospecha que tiene filtraciones. Solicite al distribuidor que verifique si hay
filtraciones.
LAS FILTRACIONES DE LÍQUIDO DE ALTA PRESIÓN PUEDEN NO SER VISIBLES.
AL VERIFICAR FILTRACIONES HIDRÁULICAS Y TRABAJAR CERCA DE LOS SISTEMAS HIDRÁULICOS:
•SIEMPRE USE gafas de seguridad y guantes impenetrables.
•USE papel o cartón para verificar si hay filtraciones.
•NO USE las manos o partes del cuerpo para detectar filtraciones.
•MANTENGA las manos y el cuerpo LEJOS de los orificios de clavijas y boquillas de eyección de fluido hidráulico.
• El fluido hidráulico puede causar gangrena si no es extirpado quirúrgicamente de inmediato por un médico
especializado en este tipo de lesiones. PN HP01 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-9
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DE ENREDO POR EL PTO
MANTÉNGASE ALEJADO DE LAS LÍNEAS DE CONDUCCIÓN Y OTROS ELEMENTOS
GIRATORIOS PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE:
MANTÉNGASE LEJOS y NO ACERQUE las manos, los pies y el cuerpo a las cuchillas giratorias, líneas de
conducción y partes hasta que todos los elementos móviles se hayan detenido.
•DETENGA la cortadora, EXAMÍNELA Y PRESTE ATENCIÓN A LOS SONIDOS antes de acercarse a la cortadora
para asegurarse de que se haya detenido todo el movimiento giratorio.
•LOS ELEMENTOS GIRATORIOS SIGUEN ROTANDO una vez apagada la PTO.
PROTECCIÓN DE LA PTO:
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE POR ENREDO AL OPERAR EL IMPLEMENTO:
•MANTENGA instalados los protectores, las cubiertas integrales de las líneas de conducción y las cubiertas de
entrada
•NO OPERE la cortadora si los protectores o cubiertas no están bien colocados o faltan.
•REEMPLACE O REPÁRELOS si faltan, están dañados o rotos
•SIEMPRE REEMPLACE LOS PROTECTORES que se han quitado para tareas de reparación o mantenimiento.
PARA EVITAR que la línea de conducción se rompa durante las operaciones:
•VERIFIQUE que la línea de conducción tenga el largo adecuado entre el eje de PTO y el eje de la caja de cambios
del implemento.
• Las líneas de conducción demasiado cortas se pueden soltar o romper.
• Las líneas de conducción demasiado largas pueden tocar el suelo.
Un ensamblaje telescópico de la línea de conducción que toque el suelo no se deslizará y se solidificará.
• Si la línea de conducción toca el suelo, puede atravesar los cojinetes de soporte y romper el eje de PTO.
•EVITE hacer curvas pronunciadas o elevar la cortadora a alturas que puedan hacer caer la línea de conducción.
• Lubrique los componentes telescópicos del eje de transmisión en forma semanal.
COMUNÍQUESE CON EL DISTRIBUIDOR si la línea de conducción del implemento no coincide con el eje de
PTO del tractor:
• NO UTILICE UN ADAPTADOR DE PTO.
El uso de un adaptador de PTO puede causar vibración excesiva, caída de objetos, fallas de las cuchillas y el
implemento como consecuencia de la duplicación de la velocidad operativa. El aumento de la longitud de trabajo
puede exponer áreas desprotegidas de la línea de conducción. PN PE01 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-8
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DE ATROPELLO
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE POR CAÍDA DEL TRACTOR O ATROPELLO
DEL EQUIPO:
• USE tractores equipados con SISTEMA ANTIVUELCO (ROPS) y CINTURONES DE SEGURIDAD para las
operaciones de corte.
• MANTENGA EL SISTEMA ROPS trabado en posición vertical.
• SÓLO ENCIENDA el tractor sentado en el asiento del tractor.
• SIEMPRE ABRÓCHESE el cinturón de seguridad al operar el tractor y los equipos.
• SÓLO OPERE el tractor y el equipo sentado en el asiento del tractor.
• NUNCA LLEVE A OTRAS PERSONAS en el tractor o implemento.
AL SUBIR Y BAJAR DEL TRACTOR:
• • SÓLO suba o baje del tractor cuando éste y sus partes móviles estén detenidos.
• • APAGUE EL MOTOR Y LA TDF, coloque el freno de mano, descienda del implemento, espere a que se detengan
todas las partes móviles y quite la llave antes de bajarse del tractor. PN RO01 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-7
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DE OBJECTOS LANZADOS Continuado
OPERACIÓN DE LA CORTADORA:
•NO exceda la capacidad de corte nominal de la cortadora, ni corte elementos que no sean vegetación.
•USE CABINAS DE TRACTOR CERRADAS cuando haya dos o más cortadoras operando en un mismo
sector..
•AJUSTE las secciones de la cortadora o la ala cercana y paralela al suelo sin exponer las cuchillas
•AJUSTE LA ALTURA de corte para EVITAR EL CONTACTO DE LAS CUCHILLAS con objetos sólidos,
como alambres, piedras, postes, cordones, guardarrailes y obstrucciones fijas.
•NO opere la cortadora con la(s) ala(s) elevada(s) o en posición de transporte.
•DETENGA LA CORTADORA de inmediato si las cuchillas entran en contacto con objetos pesados,
estructuras fijas, guardarrailes de metal y estructuras de cemento:
1. LAS CUCHILLAS PUEDEN FALLAR con el impacto y los objetos pueden ser arrojados a gran
velocidad.
2. INSPECCIONE y REEMPLACE las cuchillas dañadas.
3. VERIFIQUE el equilibrio del porta cuchillas y REEMPLÁCELO si está dañado.
•NO opere la cortadora en agua PARA EVITAR una posible FALLA DE LAS CUCHILLAS.
•EVITE OPERAR LA CORTADORA en reversa:
1. DETENGA EL PTO y retroceda la cortadora.
2. DESCIENDA la cortadora, encienda el PTO y corte hacia adelante.
•DETENGA EL PTO y las CUCHILLAS al elevar el implemento o la cortadora a posición de transporte.
•NO ENCIENDA EL PTO con la cortadora en posición de transporte.
•DETENGA la cortadora cuando se produzca VIBRACIÓN EXCESIVA:
1. DETENGA EL PTO Y EL MOTOR del tractor.
2. INSPECCIONE la cortadora para detectar la fuente de la vibración
3. REEMPLACE toda parte dañada o las CUCHILLAS dobladas o dañadas. PN TO02-X SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-6
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DE OBJECTOS LANZADOS
LAS CORTADORAS GIRATORIAS PUEDEN ARROJAR OBJETOS A 90 METROS (300 PIES) O MÁS EN
CONDICIONES ADVERSAS.
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE AL OPERADOR O TRANSEÚNTES COMO CONSECUENCIA DE OBJETOS
ARROJADOS:
•MANTENGA a los transeúntes a 100 metros de distancia (300 pies)
NO OPERE LA CORTADORA SI HAY PERSONAS A MENOS DE 100 METROS(300 PIES), SALVO QUE:
• Todos los PROTECTORES CONTRA OBJETOS ARROJADOS estén colocados y en buen funcionamiento al operar la cortadora,
entre los que se incluyen los deflectores frontales y traseros, los protectores de cadena, los protectores de acero, las bandas, los
faldones laterales y las zapatas antideslizantes.
• Las partes de la cortadora o la ala estén ajustadas cerca y paralelas al suelo, sin exponer las cuchillas.
• Se ha inspeccionado el ÁREA DE CORTE y se han quitado todos los materiales extraños y residuos.
•LOS TRANSEÚNTES estén en el interior de un vehículo cerrado.
ANTES DE OPERAR LA CORTADORA, INSPECCIONE EL ÁREA PARA DETECTAR LA POSIBILIDAD DE OBJETOSQUE
PUEDAN SER LANZADOS:
•QUITE residuos, piedras, cables, alambres, objetos metálicos y cualquier otro objetos extraños del área.
Los alambres, cables, sogas, cadenas y objetos metálicos pueden ser arrojados o salir desprendidos de la plataforma a gran
velocidad:
1. MARQUE los objetos que no se puedan quitar.
2. EVITE estos objetos cuando use la cortadora.
INSPECCIÓN DEL ÁREA PARA DETECTAR HIERBA ALTA Y MALEZAS:
•INSPECCIONE Y QUITE cualquier residuo oculto de gran tamaño.
•PASE LA CORTADORA a una altura intermedia
•INSPECCIONE y quite el residuo restante
•PASE LA CORTADORA a la altura final
PROTECCIÓN CONTRA OBJETOS ARROJADOS DE LA CORTADORA:
•MANTENGA todos los protectores contra objetos arrojados en su lugar y en buen funcionamiento al operar la cortadora, entre los
que se incluyen los deflectores frontales y traseros, los protectores de cadena, los protectores de acero, las bandas, los faldones
laterales y las zapatas antideslizantes.
•NO OPERE LA CORTADORA si falta algún protector contra objetos arrojados, o si éstos están dañados.
DERECHO DE PASO (autopista) CON LA CORTADORA
•UTILICE PROTECTORES DE CADENA DOBLES para autopistas, derecho de paso, parques o cortes en cinturón verde donde
pueda haber viviendas, vehículos o ganado dentro de los 100 metros (300 pies) de la cortadora.
• Ninguna protección ofrece una eficacia del 100% en la prevención de objetos arrojados. Para reducir la posibilidad de que se pro-
duzcan lesiones:
1. MANTENGA LOS PROTECTORES DE LA CORTADORA, los faldones laterales, la zapatas antideslizantes y las cuchillas en
buen estado de funcionamiento,
2. ELEVE LA ALTURA DE CORTE a 15 CM (6 PULGADAS) como mínimo,
3. INSPECCIONE EL ÁREA con cuidado antes de pasar la cortadora para ELIMINAR el pos ble riesgo de OBJETOS
ARROJADOS,
4. NUNCA PERMITA QUE LAS CUCHILLAS EN MOVIMIENTO ENTREN EN CONTACTO CON OBJETOS SÓLIDOS como
alambres, piedras, postes, cordones, guardarrailes o el suelo. PN TO02 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-5
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
RIESGO DE APLASTAMIENTO
PARA EVITAR UNA LESIÓN GRAVE O LA MUERTE POR CAÍDA DEL TRACTOR, O EL APLASTAMIENTO,
VUELCO Y APLASTAMIENTO DE UN EQUIPO POR LA CAÍDA DE UNA ALA O UN IMPLEMENTO:
• USE tractores equipados con SISTEMA ANTIVUELCO (ROPS) y CINTURONES DE SEGURIDAD para las operaciones de
corte.
• MANTENGA EL SISTEMA ROPS trabado en posición vertical.
• SIEMPRE ABRÓCHESE el cinturón de seguridad al operar el tractor y los equipos.
• SÓLO OPERE el tractor y el equipo sentado en el asiento del tractor.
AL ELEVAR O DESCENDER EL IMPLEMENTO:
• Eleve o descienda SÓLO CUANDO ESTÉ SENTADO en el asiento del tractor, con el cinturón de seguridad ajustado.
• Eleve o descienda SÓLO cuando la lengüeta del implemento esté firmemente ajustada a la barra de tracción del tractor
PARA EVITAR el vuelco del implemento.
• MANTENGA A LOS TRANSEÚNTES FUERA del área de operación PARA EVITAR accidentes por aplastamiento.
Los equipos ELEVADOS se pueden caer por fallas mecánicas o hidráulicas o por un movimiento inesperado de la palanca de
control.
PARA EVITAR LA CAÍDA DEL EQUIPO al trabajar cerca o debajo de los componentes o implementos
elevados por un enganche de tractor de 3 puntos:
• SUJETE CON FIRMEZA o bloquee en posición vertical todos los equipos, alas y componentes elevados.
• BLOQUEE EN POSICIÓN VERTICAL y sujete con firmeza el equipo antes de poner las manos, los pies o el cuerpo debajo
de los equipos o componentes elevados.
AL ESTACIONAR el implemento y el tractor:
•DESCIENDA el implemento, TRABE o BLOQUEE las partes elevadas antes de alejarse del equipo.
• NUNCA deje un implemento sin atención en posición elevada.
PARA EVITAR LA CAÍDA O EL APLASTAMIENTO DE NIÑOS POR EL EQUIPO:
• NUNCA DEJE que los niños jueguen sobre el tractor o los implementos, ni en sus alrededores.
WHEN UNHITCHING IMPLEMENT:
AL DESENGANCHAR EL IMPLEMENTO:
•DESCIENDA el implemento, TRABE o BLOQUEE las partes elevadas antes de alejarse del equipo.
•USE el gato de la lengüeta para controlar el movimiento de la lengüeta del implemento
•USE el GATO de le lengüeta para elevar lengüetas de implementos pesados.
• EVITE recargar el gato para evitar falla al gato y una lesión al operador. PN CH02 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-4
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
SEGURIDAD DE CONECTAR O DESCONECTAR IMPLEMENTO
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE POR APLASTAMIENTO POR EL TRACTOR O
IMPLEMENTO:
•AL DAR MARCHA ATRÁS el tractor hacia el enganche del implemento:
•NO PERMITA QUE HAYA PERSONAS entre el tractor y el implemento
ANTES de conectar y desconectar el enganche del implemento:
•APAGUE EL MOTOR DEL TRACTOR, coloque la palanca en “estacionar", ponga el freno de mano y saque la llave.
Al conectar y desconectar el enganche del implemento:
•NO se agache o camine debajo de la cortadora o la ala en posición elevada.
•USE el GATO con lengüeta para elevar lengüetas de implementos pesados a fin de controlar el movimiento de la lengüeta del
implemento.
•EVITE recargar el gato para evitar una falla de éste y una lesión al operador.
AL CONECTAR LA LÍNEA DE CONDUCCIÓN DEL IMPLEMENTO:
PARA EVITAR que la línea de conducción del implemento se suelte durante la operación:
•LUBRIQUE el anillo de cierre del resorte del yugo para asegurarse de que se deslice libremente sobre el eje de PTO
•ASEGURE las bolas de cierre del yugo en la muesca del eje de PTO.
•PRESIONE y JALE DE LA LÍNEA DE CONDUCCIÓN del EJE DE TOMA DE FUERZA(PTO) del tractor y del implemento para
asegurarse de que estén FIRMEMENTE SUJETADOS
PARA EVITAR que la línea de conducción se rompa durante las operaciones:
•VERIFIQUE que la línea de conducción tenga el largo adecuado entre el eje de PTO y el eje de la caja de cambios del implemento.
• Las líneas de conducción demasiado cortas se pueden soltar o romper.
• Las líneas de conducción demasiado largas pueden tocar el suelo.
• Un ensamblaje telescópico de la línea de conducción que toque el suelo no se deslizará y se solidificará.
• Si la línea de conducción toca el suelo, puede atravesar los cojinetes de soporte y romper el eje de PTO.
COMUNÍQUESE CON EL DISTRIBUIDOR si la línea de conducción del implemento no coincide con el eje de TDF del tractor:
•NO UTILICE UN ADAPTADOR DE PTO.
• El uso de un adaptador de PTO puede ocasionar:
• Vibración excesiva, caída de objetos, fallas de la hoja y el implemento como consecuencia de la duplicación de la velocidad opera-
tiva.
• Mayor extensión de trabajo, lo que deja expuestas áreas desprotegidas de la línea de conducción e implica el riesgo de enredo con
otros objetos.
NO conecte la cortadora a un tractor con la TDF directamente conectada a la transmisión del tractor. PN CD02 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-3
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
SEGURIDAD DEL OPERADOR
PARA EVITAR LESIONES GRAVES O LA MUERTE, SIGA LAS SIGUIENTES INSTRUCCIONES:
•LEA, COMPRENDA y SIGA las instrucciones del Manual del Operador, al igual que las Advertencias y Mensajes de
Seguridad.
•USE GAFAS DE SEGURIDAD, calzado protector, casco, protección auditiva y guantes al operar o reparar el equipo
•USE un aparato de respiración apropiado al operar en condiciones polvorientas a fin de evitar contraer
enfermedades respiratorias.
•NO USE prendas sueltas o joyas que se puedan enredar con las partes giratorias y causar una lesión.
•NO CONSUMA DROGAS o ALCOHOL antes o durante la operación del equipo.
•NO PERMITA que nadie opere el equipo bajo los efectos negativos de las drogas o el alcohol.
•CONSULTE a un médico para conocer los efectos desfavorables de la medicación sobre los sentidos.
•MANTÉNGASE ALERTA, la operación prolongada puede causar fatiga. HAGA UNA PAUSA y DESCANSE.
SEGURIDAD DE OPERACIÓN GENERAL
CONDICIONES DE VISIBILIDAD AL USAR LA CORTADORA:
•OPERE LA CORTADORA CON LUZ SOLAR o con luz que aporte una visibilidad nítida de más de 90 metros (100
yardas).
•DEBE PODER VISUALIZAR e identificar transeúntes, terrenos empinados, pozos, desniveles, obstrucciones
elevadas, cables de alimentación, residuos y objetos extraños.
VELOCIDAD RESPECTO AL SUELO AL USAR LA CORTADORA:
• El rango de VELOCIDAD NORMAL es de entre 2 y 5 millas por hora.
•AJUSTE LA VELOCIDAD DE CORTE según las condiciones del terreno y el tipo de césped, la densidad y la altura
del corte.
•REDUZCA LA VELOCIDAD DE CORTE al acercarse a inclinaciones empinadas, pozos, desniveles, obstrucciones
elevadas, cables de alimentación y para evitar residuos y objetos extraños.
INFESTACIÓN CON INSECTOS
• No opere en áreas susceptibles al ataque de abejas o insectos, salvo que USE PRENDAS PROTECTORAS o una
cabina de tractor cerrada.
VELOCIDAD DE PTO:
•NO EXCEDA LA VELOCIDAD DE PTO NOMINAL DEL IMPLEMENTO
•EVITE superar las velocidades nominales de PTO, porque puede causar roturas en la línea de conducción o fallas
de las cuchillas.
SEÑALES DE SEGURIDAD:
•REEMPLACE cualquier señal de seguridad faltante, dañada o ilegible. PN OS01 SP
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SEGURIDAD
290 Series 05/12 Sección de Seguridad 1-2
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SEGURIDAD
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD Y PRÁCTICAS GENERALES
El mejor operador es un operador cuidadoso. La seguridad es de importancia fundamental para el fabricante,
y también debería serlo para el propietario u operador. La mayoría de los accidentes se pueden evitar
prestando suma atención al equipo, al ambiente circundante, y tomando algunas precauciones. La primera
sección de este manual incluye una lista de Mensajes de Seguridad que deben observarse para contribuir a
la protección del operador y otras personas frente a lesiones o la muerte. Lea con atención estos Mensajes
de Seguridad antes de ensamblar, operar o reparar este Implemento. Este equipo sólo debe ser operado por
personas que hayan leído el manual, responsables y calificadas, que sepan cómo hacerlo de manera
responsable.
El Símbolo de Alerta de Seguridad se utiliza en combinación con una Señal Verbal, tal como la
que se muestra a continuación, en todo este manual y en los autoadhesivos adheridos a los
equipos. El Símbolo de Alerta de Seguridad significa:
“¡ATENCIÓN! ¡MANTÉNGASE ALERTA! ¡SU SEGURIDAD ESTÁ EN JUEGO!” El Símbolo y
la Señal Verbal tienen el objetivo de advertir al propietario/operador sobre un riesgo inminente y
el grado de lesión que se puede producir al operar este equipo.
Indica una situación peligrosa inminente que, de no ser evitada, OCASIONARÁ la
MUERTE O UNA LESIÓN MUY GRAVE.
Indica una situación peligrosa inminente que, de no ser evitada, PODRÍA OCASIONAR la
MUERTE O UNA LESIÓN MUY GRAVE.
Indica una situación peligrosa inminente que, de no ser evitada, PODRÍA OCASIONAR
UNA LESIÓN MENOR.
Identifica instrucciones o procedimientos específicos que, de no observarse
estrictamente, podrían ocasionar daños o la destrucción de la maquinaria, los accesorios
o el entorno.
NOTA: Identifica aspectos de particular interés para lograr una operación o reparación más eficiente y
conveniente.
LEA CON ATENCIÓN Y RESPETE los siguientes Mensajes de Seguridad. Si no se
siguen cuidadosamente las advertencias e instrucciones indicadas en este Manual y en
los Mensajes de Seguridad del implemento, se pueden producir lesiones graves o la
muerte. Siempre siga las instrucciones de este manual y use el sentido común para evitar
situaciones peligrosas.
NOTA: Si desea obtener una traducción de esta sección de seguridad en alguno de los siguientes idiomas,
comuníquese con: Translations, a la dirección 1502 E. Walnut Street Seguin, TX 78155; Fax: (830) 372-
9529; La Sección de Seguridad está disponible en español, portugués, francés, alemán, ruso. PN GS01 SP
Adopte todas las medidas habituales para trabajar en forma segura y, sobre
todo, recuerde que la seguridad depende de USTED. Sólo USTED puede
impedir una lesión grave o la muerte a causa de prácticas no seguras.
![](asset-78.png)
Sección de Seguridad 1-1
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
SECCIÓN DE SEGURIDAD
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Instrucciones de operaciones antes de la entrega del DISTRIBUIDOR al CLIENTE
El distribuidor deberá informar al comprador de este producto las condiciones, disposiciones y procedimientos de
garantía aplicables; informar la responsabilidad del comprador de capacitar a sus operadores para la operación
segura; revisar el contenido del Manual del Operador, incluido el equipo de seguridad, la operación segura y el
mantenimiento; y revisar las Señales de Seguridad que se encuentran en el implemento (y en el tractor, de ser
posible).
• IMPLEMENTOS: He explicado que los deflectores, protectores de cadena o faldones sólidos se deben
mantener en buenas condiciones de reparación y se deben instalar, excepto en zonas donde personas,
vehículos, ganado u otros bienes no corran peligro por objetos arrojados, y en los casos en que dichos
equipos de seguridad impedirían un desempeño razonable de la cortadora en su tarea asignada.
• LÍNEAS DE CONDUCCIÓN: Me he asegurado de que todos los protectores de líneas de conducción, de caja
de engranajes y otros están en buenas condiciones de reparación y firmemente sujetados para prevenir
lesiones por enredo u objetos arrojados.
• MÁQUINAS HIDRÁULICAS: He explicado la necesidad de usar aceite hidráulico limpio, cambiar los filtros
según las instrucciones, detener filtraciones, prevenir daños por operar con aceite demasiado caliente, cuidar
las mangueras, usar mangueras del tipo correcto, mantener la presión operativa especificada y prevenir el
posible riesgo de que el aceite penetre en la piel.
• IMPLEMENTOS PLEGABLES: He explicado que no es posible proteger contra objetos arrojados cuando el
cabezal está elevado del suelo y que el operador es responsable de verificar que no existan personas en las
inmediaciones. He explicado que el brazo o cabezal de cortadora elevado puede entrar en contacto con
obstrucciones elevados y dañar cables y líneas telefónicas, y posiblemente causar lesiones. He explicado que
el brazo o cabezal extendido, o el brazo retraído, puede entrar en contacto con cables de alimentación y
causar lesiones o la muerte por electrocución, y que el operador es responsable de evitar dichos riesgos.
SERVICIO ANTES DE LA ENTREGA
VERIFIQUE Y AJUSTE O LUBRIQUE SEGÚN SEA NECESARIO
Consulte los detalles en el Manual del Operador
Inspección realizada – Garantía y procedimientos de seguridad explicados – Instalación realizada
LUBRICACIÓN E HIDRÁULICA
Caja de engranajes (niveles de aceite)
Nivel de aceite hidráulico (tanque externo)
Nivel de aceite hidráulico del tractor
Mangueras hidráulicas (no retorcidas y ajustadas)
Propulsor de bomba frontal (conjunto ajustado y eje
bien alineado)
CORTADORA
Pernos de husillo y motor bien ajustados
Nivel de aceite del husillo
Pernos de porta cuchillas bien ajustados/pasadores de
retención colocados
Nivel y altura de corte de la cortadora ajustados
Cojinetes del eje de corte lubricados
Todas las piezas metálicas bien ajustadas
Presión de aire y neumáticos/tuercas de rueda (bien
ajustadas)
Cojinetes de rueda (verificar, engrasar y hacer carga
previa)
ACCESORIOS E INSTALACIÓN
Deflectores frontales y traseros
Accesorios de trituración
Sentido de giro de las hojas correcto
Vigas y brazos de eje
Lengüeta y barras de control (instaladas y ajustadas)
Todos los pernos, pasadores y tuercas (ajuste
correcto)
CONEXIONES DE CORTADORA A TRACTOR
Longitud de barra de enganche (verificar y fijar)
Pivote y conexiones de bastidor en A
Barras de control (ajustadas iguales)
Altura de eje (ajustar)
Altura de corte (ajustar)
Verificación de pre-operación de kit de montaje
Aleta de cortadora (ajustar nivel con el centro)
Aleta de cortadora (verificar operación de elevación
correcta)
Líneas de conducción C.V. (verificar radio de giro máx.)
Enganche de tracción (ajuste de altura)
Piezas metálicas de montaje bien ajustadas
ELEMENTOS DE SEGURIDAD
Protectores (operación e instalación)
Embrague de línea de conducción (limitador de ajuste)
(ajustar y poner en marcha)
Autoadhesivos de seguridad (colocados)
Manual del Operador (entregado)
Protector de TDF del tractor (instalado)
Emblema S.M.V. (instalado de ser necesario)
Gato con lengüeta (instalación y operación)
Cadena de remolque de seguridad (instalada)
Manual de Seguridad de Línea de Conducción ADMA
(entregado)
Manual de Seguridad de Cortadora AEM (entregado en
porta manual)
Se mostró el Video de Seguridad de Cortadora AEM al
comprador
![](asset-7b.png)
Bush Hog está dispuesto a suministrar un (1) Video de Prácticas de
Seguridad para Cortadoras AEM
Por favor enviar: Video de Seguridad para el Operador de Cortadoras AEM/FEMA – formato VHS
Video de Seguridad para el Operador de Cortadoras AEM/FEMA – formato DVD
Manual del Operador de la Cortadora
Manual de Seguridad del Operador de la Cortadora AEM
Nombre del solicitante___________________________Teléfono:____________________
Dirección del solicitante_________________________________
Ciudad__________________________________
Estado__________________________________
Código postal_____________________________
Modelo de cortadora___________________Número de serie________________________
Fecha de compra_____________________ Vendedor del distribuidor_________________
Nombre del distribuidor_________________Dirección del distribuidor_________________
Enviar por correo a:
AEM Video Services
1502 E. Walnut Street
Seguin, TX 78155
O enviar por fax a:
(830) 372-9529
O enviar por correo electrónico a:
AEMVideo@alamo-group.com
![](asset-7c.png)
A fin de reducir la tasa de accidentes y mejorar la operación segura de las cortadoras, Bush Hog se ha asociado
con otros fabricantes de la industria para desarrollar el video y la guía de Prácticas de Seguridad para Cortadoras
Industriales y Agrícolas AEM/FEMA.
El video explica a los operadores de tractores y cortadoras las prácticas seguras que deben adoptar cuando
utilizan cortadoras industriales y agrícolas. Es importante que todos los operadores de cortadoras aprendan cómo
operar sus equipos de corte y puedan reconocer los posibles peligros que pueden surgir al operar una cortadora.
Este video, en conjunto con el manual del operador de la cortadora y los mensajes de advertencia que se
encuentran en la cortadora, serán muy útiles para complementar este aprendizaje tan importante.
Es posible que su distribuidor autorizado de Bush Hog le haya mostrado este video y le haya entregado una copia
en DVD cuando adquirió su cortadora. Si usted o algún operador de cortadora no vio el video: mire el video, lea
este Manual del Operador, y complete la Guía del Video antes de operar su cortadora nueva. Si no comprende
alguna de las instrucciones del video o del manual del operador, o si tiene alguna pregunta acerca de la operación
segura, comuníquese con su supervisor, con el distribuidor o con Bush Hog.
Si desea recibir una copia del video en VHS, envíe un mensaje de correo electrónico a AEMVideo@alamo-
group.com o un fax al (830) 372-9529, o envíe por correo una copia rellenada del formulario que se encuentra al
dorso de esta página a AEM VHS Video 1502 E Walnut Street, Seguin, TX 78155, y solicite la versión en VHS.
Indique su nombre, dirección postal, modelo de cortadora y número de serie.
Cada uno de los operadores debe recibir capacitación para cada equipo (tractor y cortadora), comprender el uso
previsto, y comprender los posibles peligros antes de operar el equipo.
La informacion y material mecionado en la informacion anterior junto con el Manual de Operador puede asistir en
cumplir con los requisitos de OSHA para el entrenamiento anual del Operador.
REQUISITOS DE ENTRENAMIENTO DEL OSHA
Los seguientes requisitos de entrenamiento se an tomoda del Titulo 29, código de la pieza de regulaciones
federales 1928.57 (a) (6). www.osha.gov
Instrucciones del operador. A la hora de la asignación inicial y por lo menos anualmente después de eso, el
empleador mandará a cada empleado quien opera un tractor agricola o implemento en las practicas de operación
segura y el mantenimiento de el equipo con el cual el empleado esté, o estará implicado y de cualquier otras
prácticas dictados por el ambiente laboral.
![](asset-7d.png)
Al propietario/operador/distribuidor
Este Manual del Operador es una parte esencial de la operación segura de esta máquina y se debe mantener con
la unidad siempre. El implemento incluye un porta manual donde se puede guardar el manual de manera
adecuada. Si el manual se extravía o se daña, puede solicitar otra copia sin cargo a un distribuidor autorizado de
Bush Hog o descargarlo del sitio web de Bush Hog (www.servis-bushhog.com).
ANTES DE COMENZAR LEA, COMPRENDA y SIGA la información incluida en este manual, el Manual de
Seguridad de la Cortadora AEM y el manual del operador del tractor para conocer cómo operar la máquina y
realizar tareas de servicio correctamente. De lo contrario, podría sufrir lesiones u ocasionar lesiones a terceros.
Todos los implementos con partes móviles son potencialmente peligrosos. Cada esfuerzo ha sido hecho para
asegurar que la màquina esté segura, pero los operadores deben evitar entrar en prácticas peligrosas y seguir las
instrucciones escritas que son proporcionadas. El fabricante ha diseñado este implemento para ser usado con
todos sus equipos de seguridad correctamente sujetados para minimizar la probabilidad de accidentes.
LA SEGURIDAD PRIMERO. Lea con atención la totalidad de la sección de seguridad de este manual antes de
operar el equipo. No permita que nadie opere el equipo sin haber leído y comprendido la totalidad de este manual.
Comuníquese con el distribuidor si necesita explicación sobre alguna instrucción que no haya comprendido del
todo.
Los cuidados que brinde a su Implemento Bush Hog determinarán en gran medida su satisfacción con el
desempeño y la vida útil del equipo. Lea con atención y siga las instrucciones de este manual para comprender
cabalmente su nuevo implemento, su uso previsto, y sus requisitos de servicio.
Todas las referencias que se hacen en este manual a derecha, izquierda, frontal, trasero, arriba y abajo
corresponden a la perspectiva en el sentido del desplazamiento hacia delante con el implemento correctamente
sujetado al tractor.
La información sobre repuestos se encuentra por separado en el Manual de Partes. Las cortadoras Bush Hog
utilizan componentes del sistema equilibrados y coincidentes para porta cuchillas, cuchillas, ejes de corte, hojas,
ganchos para hojas, rodillos, componentes de los engranajes, y cojinetes. Estas partes se fabrican y se prueban
según las especificaciones de Bush Hog. Las partes compatibles no genuinas no siempre cumplen con estas
especificaciones. El uso de partes no genuinas puede perjudicar el desempeño de la cortadora, anular la garantía
y presentar un riesgo para la seguridad. Use partes genuinas Bush Hog para ahorrar dinero y maximizar la
seguridad.
Para referencia futura, registre el número de modelo y el número de serie de BUSH HOG que ha adquirido.
Distribuidor Teléfono Fecha de compra:
Dueño Fecha de compra: Número de Serie
Placa de
Número de Serie
![](asset-7e.png)
© 2012 Alamo Group Inc.
Este Manual del Operador es
una parte esencial de la
operación segura de esta
máquina y se debe mantener con
la unidad siempre. LEA,
ENTIENDA, y SIGA las
Instrucciones de Seguridad y
Operación contenidas en este
manual antes de operar el
equipo. C01-Cover SP_B
Importantes instrucciones
de operación y las
instrucciones de seguridad
se encuentran en el video
Cortacésped Sobre
Seguridad que se puede
acceder instantáneamente
en el internet en:
www.algqr.com/bvs
290 Series
Modelo 295, 296, 297
Publicado en 05/12 Parte nº. 50050397
MANUAL DE OPERADOR
BUSH HOG®
2501 Griffin Ave.
Selma, AL 36703
334-874-2700
Email: www.bushhog.com
CORTADORA/TRITURADORA GIRATORIA
$0.00