Avantco A37456 User manual

Timber grab with rotator
2018 1
Operator's Manual for Attachment
Timber grab with rotator
Product number A37456/A37457
English
A430009 2018 1 EN 2017-
www.avanttecno.com

Timber grab with rotator 2018 1

Timber grab with rotator 2018 1
CONTENTS
1. FOREWORD ............................................................................................................................................4
Warning symbols used in this manual ............................................................................................................................... 5
2. DESIGNED PURPOSE OF USE.............................................................................................................6
3. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING THE ATTACHMENT........................................................7
3.1 Safe shutdown procedure.................................................................................................................................... 8
3.2 Personal protective equipment........................................................................................................................... 8
4. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ..........................................................................................................9
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment.................................................................................. 10
5. ATTACHING THE ATTACHMENT ....................................................................................................12
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting hydraulic hoses............................................................................................... 13
5.2 Electric connection................................................................................................................................................ 15
6. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE....................................................................................................................16
6.1 Checks before use................................................................................................................................................. 17
6.2 Operator qualification .......................................................................................................................................... 17
6.3 Operating the timber grab................................................................................................................................... 18
6.3.1 Extra gripping edge (optional extra).......................................................................................................... 19
6.4 Working on uneven ground................................................................................................................................ 19
6.5 Transport position ................................................................................................................................................ 20
6.6 Storing the timber grab ........................................................................................................................................ 20
7. MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ..........................................................................................................21
7.1 Inspection of hydraulic components.................................................................................................................. 21
7.2 Cleaning and lubricating ....................................................................................................................................... 22
7.3 Inspection of metal structures............................................................................................................................ 22
8. WARRANTY TERMS..............................................................................................................................23

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1. Foreword
Avant Tecno Oy would like to thank you for your purchase of this attachment for your Avant loader. It has
been designed and manufactured based on years of experience on product development and manufacturing.
By familiarising yourself with this manual and following the instructions, you ascertain your safety and ensure
the reliable operation and long service life of the equipment. Read the instructions carefully before starting to
use the equipment or performing maintenance.
The purpose of this manual is to help you to:
operate the equipment in a safe and efficient manner
observe and prevent any hazardous situations
keep the equipment intact and ensure a long service life
With these instructions, even an inexperienced user can use the attachment and loader safely. The manual
includes important instructions for experienced AVANT operators as well. Ensure that all persons using the
loader have received proper guidance and familiarised themselves with the manual of the loader, each
attachment that are used, and all safety instructions before using the equipment. Using the equipment for
other purposes or use in any other way than described in this manual is prohibited. Keep this manual at hand
throughout the service life of the equipment. If you sell or transfer the equipment, be sure to hand over this
manual to the new owner. If the manual is lost or damaged, you can request a new one from your Avant
dealer or from the manufacturer.
In addition to the safety instructions included in this manual, you must observe all occupational safety
regulations, local laws, and other regulations concerning the use of the equipment. Particularly the regulations
concerning the use of the equipment on public road areas must be observed. Contact your Avant dealer for
more information about local requirements before you operate the loader on road areas.
Contact your local AVANT dealer for any questions, service, spare parts or about any problems that may
occur with the operation of your machine.
This manual contains the original instructions in English. Due to continuous product development some of the
details shown in this manual may differ from your equipment. Pictures may also depict optional equipment or
features that are not currently available. We reserve the right to change the contents of the manual without
notification. Copyright © 2018 Avant Tecno Oy. All rights reserved.

5 (26)
.
Warning symbols used in this manual
The following warning symbols are used throughout this manual. They indicate factors that must be taken into
account to reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to property:
WARNING: SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
This symbol means: “Warning, be alert! Your safety is involved!”
Carefully read the message that follows, it warns of an immediate hazard
that could cause serious personal injury.
The safety alert symbol by itself and with related safety statement
indicates important safety messages throughout this Manual. It is used to
draw attention to instructions involving your personal safety or the safety
of others. When you see this symbol, be alert, your safety is involved,
carefully read the message that follows, and inform other operators.
DANGER:
This signal word indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will cause
death or serious injury.
WARNING:
This signal word indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION:
This signal word is used when minor injury could result if the instructions are not
followed properly.
This signal word indicates information about the correct operation an
d maintenance
of the equipment.
Failure to observe the instructions accompanying the symbol can lead to equipment
breakdown or other property damage.

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2. Designed purpose of use
The AVANT Timber grab with rotator is an attachment that is designed and manufactured to be used with
AVANT multi-purpose loaders shown in Table 1. The timber grab is intended for lifting and stacking of tree
trunks, branches, or other similar materials. Rotating grab makes it possible to move materials sideways or
parallel to the machine. The timber grab equipped with hydraulic rotator makes it easy to move materials in
tight spaces and makes it possible to load materials e.g. to trailers or stacks in any direction.
The strong hydraulic grapple allows firm grip of lifted material. The freely rotating model allows to turn the
material in desired position manually or by pushing against the ground. The hydraulically rotating model
makes it easy to drive on narrow areas, and makes it easy to rotate the load into correct position for loading
on a trailer or for stacking. The hydraulically operated rotation is selected with an electric switch, or a switch of
the attachment control switch pack.
The timber grab with rotator is not designed for any other use than specified and must not be used for any
other purposes than intended.
The attachment has been designed to require as little maintenance as possible. The operator can perform
regular maintenance tasks. All repair work can’t be performed by the operator, and demanding repair and
maintenance operations are to be left for professional maintenance. All maintenance work must be done using
proper safety equipment. Spare parts must be identical with original specifications, which can be ensured by
using only original spare parts. A separate spare parts catalogue may be available, consult your Avant dealer.
Familiarise yourself with the manual's instructions regarding service and maintenance. Please contact your
AVANT retailer if you have additional questions about the operation or maintenance of the equipment, or if
you require spare parts or maintenance services.
Table 1 - Timber grab with rotator - Compatibility with Avant loaders
Avant
220 series 2
225
225LPG
313S
320S
420
423
523
520
R20
525LPG
R28
528
530
630
R35
635
640
745
750
755i
760i
e5
e6
A37456 - - ••••••
A37457 - - ••••••

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3. Safety instructions for using the attachment
Please bear in mind that safety is the result of several factors. The loader-attachment combination is highly
powerful and improper or careless use or maintenance may cause serious personal injury or property
damage. Due to this, all operators must carefully familiarise themselves about correct use and the operator's
manuals of both the loader and the attachment before starting operation. Do not use the attachment if you
have not completely familiarised yourself with its operation and the related hazards.
DANGER
Misuse, careless use, or using an attachment that is in poor condition, may
cause risk of serious injuries. Familiarise yourself with the controls
of the loader,
correct coupling procedure, and the correct way to operate the attachment at a safe
area. Study especially how to stop the equipment in a safe manner. Read all safety
precautions carefully.
Read all safety instructions carefully before handling the attachment
WARNING
When attaching an attachment to the loader, ensure that the locking pins of the
loader's quick attach plate are in the lower position and that they have locked
the attachment to the loader. Never lift or move an unlocked attachment.
The Timber grab with rotator is designed to be used by one operator at a time. Do not
let others near the danger area of the equipment when it is in use.

Always transport the attachment as low as possible to keep the centre of gravity low,
and keep the telescopic boom retracted during driving.
The operating area must be well lit. Use the work lights of the loader and other light
sources as necessary.
Drive slowly and carefully on inclined terrain or slippery surfaces. Avoid sudden
changes
in speed or direction to maintain balance of the loader especially on uneven
surfaces or hills.
Always keep a safe distance of at least two metres between the attachment and any
persons.
Watch out for the strong grapple. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, and
make sure that the attachment can’t move before going near it.
Carrying heavy loads can shift the centre of gravity of the loader and lead to tipping
over of the loader. Always transport the load as low and close to the machine as
possible with the telescopic boom completely retracted to keep the centre of gravity
low and for the best stability.
Keep the loader articulation in straight position when handling heavy loads. When
turning the articulation, the loader may tilt forward.
Observe maximum load indicated in the operator’s manual of the loader. Be
especially careful when the load sensor indicator is activated.
Pay attention to the surroundings and any other persons and machines moving in the
vicinity. Pay attention to
the contours of the terrain and other hazards, such as
branches and trees that can reach to the driver's area, loose rocks, and slippery
surfaces.
Never use the attachment to lift or to transport persons or as any kind of work
platform even temporarily.

8 (26)
WARNING
Make sure to use only an attachment that is in good condition. Check the attachment
thoroughly in regular intervals. Do not modify the attachment in a manner that would
affect its safety. It is prohibited to drill holes on the attachment, and welding o
r other
means of fixing hooks or other objects on the attachment is strictly prohibited.
Shut down the loader and place the attachment to a safe position as shown in Safe
stopping procedure before any cleaning, maintenance, or adjustments.
Use the attachment only for its intended purpose. Other use may create unnecessary
safety risks, and the equipment may get damaged.
Make sure that the loader is equipped with necessary safety components, and that
they are in working condition. Seat belt must be u
sed. If there are specific hazards
related to the operating area, use appropriate safety equipment.
Also read the safety instructions and correct use of the loader from the operator's
manual of the loader.
.
3.1 Safe shutdown procedure
Safe stopping of the attachment, before going near the attachment:
WARNING
Always stop the attachment following safe stopping procedure before leaving
the driver's seat.
Safe stopping procedure prevents all unintentional movements of
the attachment. Note that the load
er boom can move down even if the engine of the
loader is turned off. Safe stopping procedure:
Lower the boom and the attachment on the ground.
Shut down the loader engine and lock the parking brake.
Release residual pressure from the hydraulic system; mov
e all hydraulic control
levers to their extreme positions a couple of times.
Prevent starting of the machine, remove ignition key.
3.2 Personal protective equipment
Remember to wear proper personal protective equipment:
The noise level at the driver's se
at may exceed 85 dB(A) depending on loader
model and operating cycle. Extended exposure to loud noise can cause
hearing impairment. Wear hearing protection while working with the loader.
Wear protective gloves.
Wear safety boots whenever working with the loader.
Wear safety glasses when handling hydraulic components.

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4. Technical specifications
Table 2 – Timber grab with rotator - Specifications
Product number A37457 A37456
Grapple opening: 1223 mm
Rotating system: Freely rotating,
continuous 360°
Hydraulic, continuous
360°
Weight 116 kg 136 kg
Maximum allowed load: As restricted by the loader model, see operator’s
manual of the loader
Recommended input of
hydraulic energy: 10-20 l/min
Maximum input of hydraulic
energy: 30 l/min, 20 MPa (200 bar)
Suitable AVANT loader: See Table 1
Available options
Gripping edge
A427744
Total width 538 mm
Lenght 384 mm
Height 370 mm

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.
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment
Listed below are the labels and markings on the attachment. They must be visible and readable on the
equipment. Replace any unclear or missing label. New labels are available via your retailer or contact
information provided on the cover.
WARNING
Make sure all warning decals are readable. The warning labels contain
important
safety information and they help to identify and remember the hazards related to the
equipment. Replace damaged or missing warning labels with new ones.
Attachment identification plate
A423101
A46771 A46772 A46803
To apply a new label: Clean the surface thoroughly to remove all grease. Allow it to dry completely. Peel off
the protective film of the label and press firmly to apply. Take care not to touch the glue of the label.

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.
Table 3 – Decal warning messages and locations
Label Warning message
1 A46771 Read instructions before use.
2 A46772 Never go under a raised attachment
or the loader boom, keep a safe
distance to lifted equipment.
3 A46803 Crushing hazard, moving
components. Keep clear of moving
components.
4 Identification plate
. ..
Table 4 - Main components of the timber grab
1 Grapple
2 Rotating joint or hydraulic rotator
3 Grapple pivots
4 Frame with Avant quick coupling
5 Multi connector
6 Gripping edge
7 Connector holder
8 Gripping edge (optional extra)

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5. Attaching the attachment
Attaching the attachment to the loader is quick and easy, but it must be done carefully. The attachment is
mounted to the loader boom by using the quick attach plate on the loader boom and the counterpart on the
attachment.
If the attachment is not locked to the loader, it may detach from the loader and cause a hazardous situation.
The loader must not be driven and the boom must never be lifted when the attachment has not been locked.
To prevent hazardous situations, always follow the coupling procedure shown below. Also remember the
safety instructions shown in this manual. The attachment is mounted to the loader as follows:
WARNING
Crushing risk - Make sure that an unlocked attachment will not move or fall over.
Do not stay in the area between the attachment and the loader. Mount the attachment
only on level surface.
Never move or lift an attachment that has not been locked.
Avant quick coupling system:
Step 1:
Lift the quick attach plat
e locking pins up and turn them backwards into the slot
so that they are locked in the upper position.

If your loader is equipped with a hydraulic attachment locking system, see
additional instructions about the use of the locking system from the relevant
manuals.
Ensure that the hydraulic hoses are not in the way during installation.
Step 2:
Turn the quick attach plate hydraulically to an obliquely forward position.

Drive the loader onto the attachment. If your loader is equipped with a
telescopic boom, you can utilise this.

Align the upper pins of the loader’s quick coupling plate so that they are under
the corresponding brackets of the attachment.
Step 3:
Lift the boom slightly –
pull the boom control lever backward to raise the
attachment off the ground.

Turn the boom control lever left to turn the bottom section of the quick attach
plate onto the attachment.
Lock the locking pins manually or lock the hydraulic locking.
Always check the locking of both locking pins.

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WARNING
Risk of crushing - Avoid tipping over the attachment.
Excessive tilting or lifting of an unlocked attachment increases the risk of tipping the
attachment over. Do not use the automatic locking of the locking pins when the
attachment is lifted more than one meter from
the ground. If the locking pins do not
return to the normal position when tilting, do not tilt or raise the attachment any more.
Lower the attachment on the ground and secure the locking manually.
WARNING
Risk of falling objects - Prevent dropping of
attachment.
An attachment that has not been completely locked to the
loader may fall on the boom or towards the operator, or
fall under the loader during driving, causing loss of
control of the loader. Never move or lift an attachment
that has not been l
ocked. Before moving or lifting the
attachment, make sure that the locking pins are in the
lower position and come through the fasteners on the
attachment on both sides.
WARNING
Make sure the loader is compatible with the attachment. Stabil
ity of the loader,
possible overload of the attachment, and compatibility of loader control systems must be
ensured in addition to mechanical compatibility of the attachment. If you use the
attachment with a loader that is not fit to be used with the attac
hment model you have,
risks include tipping over, damage to attachment due to overload, and risks related to
uncontrolled motion of attachment and its parts. If your loader is not listed in Table 1 on
page 6, ask your Avant dealer before using this attachment.
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting hydraulic hoses
On Avant loaders the hydraulic hoses are connected using the multi connector system. If you have an Avant
300-700 series loader with the conventional quick couplers and wish to change to the multi connector system,
contact your Avant dealer or service point for instructions or installation services.
WARNING
Risk of movement of the attachment and ejection of hydraulic oil -
Never connect
or disconnect quick couplings or other hy
draulic components while the control
lever of the auxiliary hydraulics control lever is locked on or if the system is
pressurized.
Connecting or disconnecting the hydraulic couplings while the system is
pressurized may lead to unintended movements of the attachment, or ejection of high-
pressure fluid, which can cause serious injuries or burns. Follow safe stopping procedure
before disconnecting hydraulics.

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Keep all fittings as clean as possible; use the protective caps on both the attachment and
the
loader. Dirt, ice, etc. may make using the fittings significantly more difficult. Never
leave the hoses hanging on the ground; place the couplings onto the holder on the
attachment.
Connecting the multi connector system:
1.
Align the pins of the attachment connector with corresponding
holes of the loader connector. The multi connector will not
connect if the attachment connector is upside down.
2.
Connect and lock the multi connector by turning the lever towards
the loader.
The lever should move easily all the way to its locking position. If the lever does not slide smoothly, check the
alignment and position of the connector and clean the connectors. Also shut down the loader and release the
residual hydraulic pressure.
To disconnect the multi connector system:
Before disconnecting put the attachment down on a solid and even
surface.
1. Switch off the auxiliary hydraulics of the loader.
2.
While pushing unlock button, turn the lever to disconnect the
connector.
3. After ending operation put the multi connector
on its holder on the
attachment.
Disconnecting hydraulic hoses:
Before disconnecting the fittings, lower the attachment to safe position on solid and level surface. Turn the
control lever of the auxiliary hydraulics to its neutral position.
When u
ncoupling the attachment, always disconnect the hydraulic couplings before
unlocking the quick attach plate, to prevent hose damage and any oil spills. Reinstall the
protective caps on the fittings to prevent impurities from entering the hydraulic system.
Releasing residual hydraulic pressure:
In case residual pressure is left in the hydraulic system of the attachment, it is often possible to disconnect the
hydraulic couplings, but it may be difficult to connect them the next time. If the fittings will not connect, the
residual pressure must be released by turning the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader, when the
engine is turned off. To make sure that there will not be residual pressure in the hydraulic system of the
attachment, shut down the loader engine and move the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader back
and forth before disconnecting the couplings.

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5.2 Electric connection
If the timber grab is equipped with the hydraulic rotator, its cable harness must be connected to the loader.
There are two options for the electrical connection:
To operate the control valve, its cable harness A34731, delivered with
the attachment and equipped with a 2-
position switch, is connected to
the 12 V outlet on the loader. Select the location of the
switch in the
cab where it is easily accessible but will not be used inadvertently.
Alternatively, the optional attachment control switch pack can be used
to choose the operating mode In this case, the separate cable with the
switch is not needed, and t
he plug of the attachment can be connected
directly to the socket on the loader boom. The mode is selected with
the switch number 1.
Route the selected cable in a way that it cannot get stuck or squeezed or stretch when the equipment moves.
With the help of the attachment control switch pack available for the loader, the attachment control switches
are easily accessible at the end of the boom control lever. Instructions about the power outlet of the loader
can be found in the operator’s manual of the loader.

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6. Instructions for use
Practise the use of the attachment and the controls of the loader in a safe area. If you are unfamiliar with the
particular loader model, it is recommended to practice its use without any attachments.
. ..
WARNING
Risk of tipping over - Avoid overload.
Loader can tip over
when handling too heavy loads, or because of dynamic
movements caused by driving with and handling of a heavy
load. Do not extend the telescopic boom when the load
approaches the lifting capacity of the
loader, or when the
loader boom is in horizontal position. When you notice that
the rear wheels of the loader are about to lift from the ground,
or if the load indicator of the loader (if fitted) signals:
Lower the load calmly and retract the telescopic boom
Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction whenever load is lifted
Use additional counterweights as needed
. ..
WARNING
Risk of crushing -
Never allow anyone to get under a
lifted attachment or loader boom.
Keep in mind that the
loader bo
om can be lowered or tilted even if the engine has
been shut down (crushing hazard). The loader is not intended
to be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods. Always
lower the attachment to a safe position before leaving the
driver's seat.

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.
6.1 Checks before use
Check the operation of the grab before each work shift, and that the grab joints are intact and work as
intended.
Ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance when operating the equipment. Do not let anyone to
enter danger area of the boom or to stay directly in front of the loader. Also make sure that it is safe to
reverse with the loader. Never assume that bystanders will remain where you last saw them;
especially children are often attracted to the moving equipment.
Check the general condition of the attachment and the loader, and check for possible hydraulic oil
leaks. The attachment must not be used, if there is a fault in the hydraulic system of the loader or the
attachment. Refer to Chapter 7 for maintenance instructions.
Operate the attachment and the controls of the loader only when seated on the driver’s seat. Ensure
that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended. Do not allow children
to operate the equipment.
Never operate the loader or attachments while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication that
may impair judgement or cause drowsiness, or if not otherwise medically fit to operate the equipment.
Remember correct working methods and avoid leaving the driver’s seat unnecessarily. Practise the
use of the attachment and the controls of the loader in a safe area. If you are unfamiliar with the
particular loader model, it is recommended to practice its use without any attachments.
. ..
6.2 Operator qualification
Anyone who intends to use the timber grab must:
Know the intended use of the timber grab.
Know how to use the loader safely in different operating conditions.
Read and always follow the instructions concerning the use of the attachment in this operator's
manual.
Have this manual and the operator's manual of the loader available.
Ensure that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended.
Never allow children to operate the equipment.
Never operate the loader or attachments while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication that
may impair judgement or cause drowsiness, or if not otherwise medically fit to operate the equipment.
Complete any possible mandatory training required by the employer before use.

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.
6.3 Operating the timber grab
WARNING
Risk of serious personal injuries - Unexpected starting.
Ensure that the loader and
attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended. Do not allow children to operate
the machine.
WARNING
Operate the controls of the loader and its boom in a careful and smooth manner -
Risk of falling load.
Make sure that the grab and the loads are not swinging during lifting
operation. Drive slowly and smoothly especially on slippery or uneven terrain.
Operate the controls of the loader and its boom in a careful and smooth manner, and avoid swinging of the
grab and loads. When handling timber, the toothed edge of the attachment frame can be used to support the
timber.
Aim to grasp timber so that the grab can be closed completely, and that no material will be held only by the
edges of the grab. When lifting a too heavy load material can fall, if held only by the grasping force of the grab.
The grab with hydraulic rotator is equipped with an electric solenoid valve for selection between grab
opening/closing and rotator, operated from the driver’s seat. If the attachment is equipped with control switch
pack (option), the selection between grab opening and rotator can easily be made by a separate switch.
The freely rotating version is used by pushing the grab manually or rotating by hand.
The timber grab is usually used with low engine rpm, and only one auxiliary hydraulic pump is used. With light
and small sized loaders it might be necessary to increase engine rpm in order to maintain the hydraulic
pressure high enough.

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6.3.1 Extra gripping edge (optional extra)
The timber grab is also possible to equip with extra gripping edge A427744. The extra gripping edge is used
for pushing logs down. Around the tube of the gripping edge is possible to bind a strap e.g. for lowering
branches from the log being cut.
. ..
6.4 Working on uneven ground
Extra caution is needed when using the equipment on inclined terrains and slopes. Drive slowly especially on
inclined, uneven, or slippery surfaces, and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Operate the controls
of the loader with careful and smooth movements. Watch out for ditches, holes on the ground, and other
obstacles, as hitting an obstacle may cause the loader to tip over.
Maximum lifting capacity can not be achieved on inclined terrain. On horizontally tilted terrain the load must
not be lifted high. The loader frame articulation should be kept straight when lifting heavy loads; turning the
load during lifting operation will affect the stability of the loader and may lead to overturning of the machine.

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.
6.5 Transport position
CAUTION
Keep the loader stable. Always
transport the timber grab as low and
close to the ground as possible.
Keep the telescopic boom retracted
during drive.
6.6 Storing the timber grab
Uncouple and store the attachment on level ground. The best way to store the attachment is a place where it
is protected from direct sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures.
Avoid leaving the attachment laying directly on the ground. Place it on blocks of wood or on a pallet, for
example.
Place the multiconnector on to its holder. Never leave the hydraulic connector on the ground.
Make sure that the attachment is secured against all movements during storage.
Never climb on the attachment.
WARNING
Risk of serious personal injuries - Unintended movement.
When finished working
with the grab, but leaving it attached, make sure that the grab is lowered down to safe
position.