BEFCO BSB-005 User manual

BEFCO®
Operator’s Manual
SICKLE BAR MOWERS
BSB-005, BSB-006, BSB-007
The operator’s manual is a technical service guide and must always accompany the machine.
Manual 960-372B
September 2011

SAFETY
Take note! This safety alert symbol found throughout this manual is used to call your
attention to instructions involving your personal safety and the safety of others. Failure to
follow these instructions can result in injury or death.
Signal Words
Note the use of the signal words DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION with the safety messages. The
appropriate signal words for each have been selected using the following guidelines:
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury, and includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed. It may also be used
to alert against unsafe practices.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury.
This symbol means:
ATTENTION!
BECOME ALERT!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!

37
PARTS MANUAL
32
8 - WARRANTY
31
7 - PRE-DELIVERY CHECKLIST
30
6 - TROUBLESHOOTING
295.03 - Storage 295.02 - Suggested Spare Parts 285.01 - Blade and Teeth Replacement 28
5 - REPAIR PROCEDURES
254.04 - Transport 244.03 - Driveline 234.02 - Service 224.01 - Maintenance Safety 22
4 - MAINTENANCE
203.09 - Removing Mower from Tractor 203.08 - Uneven Terrain 183.07 - Operating Techniques 183.06 - Working Speed 173.05 - Start Up 133.04 - Attaching to the Tractor 123.03 - Pre-Operational Check 123.02 - Setup 103.01 - Operational Safety 10
3 - OPERATION
82.03 - Messages and Signs 82.02 - Starting and Stopping 72.01 - Preparation 7
2 - SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
51.03 - Assembly Instructions 41.02 - Model and Serial Number ID 41.01 - General 4
1 - GENERAL INFORMATION
INDEX
INDEX 3BEFCO

1 - GENERAL INFORMATION
Thank you and congratulations for having chosen our implement. Your new sickle bar
mower is a technologically advanced machine constructed of high quality, sturdy
components that will fulfill your working expectations. Read this manual carefully. It will
instruct you on how to operate and service your implement safely and correctly. Failure
to do so could result in personal injury and/or in equipment damage.
1.01 - General
CAUTION: Unless otherwise specified, all hardware is metric. Use only metric
tools on metric hardware. Other tools that do not fit properly can slip and cause
injury.
CAUTION: Right hand and left hand sides of the implement are determined by
facing in the direction the implement will travel when going forward.
Carefully read the Warranty section1, detailing coverage and limitations of this warranty.
Warranty is provided for customers who operate and maintain their equipment as
described in this manual. Warranty registration is accomplished by the dealer by
completing and forwarding the Warranty Registration form to the Company, along with
a copy of the dealer’s invoice. It is in your best interest to insure that this has been
done.
Warranty does not cover the following:
1. Cleaning, transporting, mailing and service call charges.
2. Normal wear items such as belts, blades, bearings, drivelines, shear pins, slip
clutches, etc.
3. Depreciation or damage caused by normal wear, accidents, improper maintenance,
improper protection or improper use.
4. The use of non-original spare parts and accessories.
Your Authorized Company Dealer has genuine parts in stock. Only these approved
replacement parts should be used.
This limited warranty covers defective material and workmanship. The cost of normal
maintenance or repairs for accidents or improper use and related labor will be borne by
the owner.
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
GENERAL INFORMATION 4BEFCO
1See Chapter 8 - Warranty.

1.02 - Model and Serial Number ID
Attached to the frame is an ID plate showing the model and the serial number. Record
your implement model and serial number in the space provided below. Your dealer
needs this information to give you prompt, efficient service when you order parts.
1.03 - Assembly Instructions
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
GENERAL INFORMATION 5BEFCO

CAUTION: Stand clear of bands when cutting as they could be under sufficient
tension to cause them to fly loose. Take care in removing bands and wire. They
often have extremely sharp edges and cut very easily.
For transport purposes implements are often shipped partially assembled. Follow
the instructions below to assemble the sickle bar mower:
Blade assembly instructions (see fig. 2):
1. Remove from support (#1) pulley (#3) and external snap ring Ø80. Insert support
(#1) into frame (#2) and fasten with the same snap ring. Screw on pulley (#3) and
connect cable (#4) to link (#5). Mount on upper pin of support (#1) fork hinge (#4),
insert cylinder shaft (#5) and fasten with hex bolt M14x65 (#6).
2. Mount the tree belts (two belts on the BSB-005) and belt guard.
3. Mount swath board (#1) (see fig. 3) and fasten with hex bolt M12x50 (#12), washer
Ø12 (#13), and self-locking nut (#14). Insert hex bolt M12x90 (#7), washer Ø12 (#8)
and fasten with self-locking nut (#11).
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
GENERAL INFORMATION 6BEFCO
Fig. 2 - Blade assembly.
Fig. 3 - Swath board assembly.

2 - SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety is the primary concern in the design and manufacture of our products.
Unfortunately our efforts to provide safe equipment can be wiped out by a single
careless act of an operator.
In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident
prevention are dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training
of personnel involved in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of
equipment. It is the operator’s responsibility to read and understand all safety and
operating instructions in the manual and to follow these.
Allow only properly trained personnel to operate the implement. Working with unfamiliar
equipment can lead to careless injuries. Read this manual, and the manual for your
tractor, before assembly or operation, to acquaint yourself with the machines. It is the
owner’s responsibility, if this machine is used by any person other than yourself, is
loaned or rented, to make certain that the operator, prior to operating, reads and
understands the operator’s manuals and is instructed in safe and proper use.
2.01 - Preparation
1. Before operating equipment read and understand the operator’s manual and the
safety signs (see fig. 4).
2. Thoroughly inspect the implement before initial operation to assure that all
packaging materials, i.e. wires, bands, and tape have been removed.
3. Personal protection equipment including hard hat, safety glasses, safety shoes, and
gloves are recommended during assembly, installation, operation, adjustment,
maintaining and/or repairing the implement.
4. Operate the implement only with a tractor equipped with an approved
Roll-Over-Protective-System (ROPS). Always wear your seat belt. Serious injury or
even death could result from falling off the tractor.
5. Clear area to be cut of stones, branches or other debris that might be thrown,
causing injury or damage.
6. Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
7. Ensure implement is properly mounted, adjusted and in good operating condition.
8. Ensure that all safety decals are properly installed and in good condition.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 7BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

2.02 - Starting and Stopping
1. Be sure that no one is near the machine prior to engaging or while the machine is
working.
2. Be sure the tractor is in “Neutral” before starting engine.
3. Never use the lifting controls when standing between the tractor and linkage.
4. Mower operating power is supplied from tractor PTO. Refer to your tractor manual
for PTO engagement and disengagement instructions. Always operate PTO at 540
rpm. Know how to stop the tractor and mower quickly in case of an emergency.
5. When engaging PTO, the engine rpm should always be low. Once engaged and
ready to start cutting, raise PTO speed to 540 rpm and maintain throughout cutting
operation.
6. Check the tractor master shield over the PTO stub shaft. Make sure it is in good
condition and fastened securely to the tractor. Purchase a new shield if old shield is
damaged or missing.
7. After striking an obstacle, disengage the PTO, shut the tractor down and thoroughly
inspect for damage before restarting.
8. Never engage the PTO until the mower is in the down position and resting on the
ground. Never raise the mower until all blades have come to a complete stop.
9. To park the vehicle safely, stop vehicle on a level surface (not on a slope),
disengage PTO, engage the parking brake, stop the engine, remove the key, and
wait for engine and all moving parts to stop before leaving the operator’s seat.
10.Stay clear of rotating drivelines. Entanglement in rotating driveline can cause serious
injury or death. Wear close fitting clothing. Stop the engine and be sure PTO
driveline is stopped before getting near it.
2.03 - Messages and Signs
1. Read and adhere to all safety and operating decals on this machine (see fig. 4).
2. Before dismounting tractor: Allow moving parts to stop, stop engine, set brake and
remove the key of unattended equipment.
3. Keep safety decals in place and in good condition.
4. Keep guards and shields in place and in good condition.
5. Do not use with bystanders in area.
6. Allow no riders on tractor or implement.
7. Allow moving parts to stop before repair.
8. Securely support implement before working underneath.
Additional warning and operating decals are available at no extra charge. Please specify
model and serial number when ordering.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 8BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

Fig. 4 - Safety decals; replace immediately if damaged.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 9BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
placed on outer shield
placed on outer tube

3 - OPERATION
You have purchased a sickle bar mower designed for the mowing of fields, ditch banks
and along ponds. The sickle bar mowers can be used with tractors from 15 up to 75 HP
and come in working widths of 5’, 6’ and 7’. The double action sickle bar mowers come
complete with an adjustable top link that ensures a sharp clean cut. The double action
sickle bar allows for a maximum working speed of up to 6.5 mph. Simple but tough
construction along with a heavy duty PTO, weight compensation spring, transport blade
protection and a safety release which protects the unit from obstructions in the field, all
provide for a unit that will give years of trouble free service. Sickle bar mowers come
standard with a hydraulic cylinder that makes it easy to raise the bar for mowing at an
angle or for transport and storage. With the capability of mowing 90° up -75° down
along with the low horsepower requirements make the sickle bars capable of handling
jobs that are not recommended for conventional disc mowers.
WARNING: The sickle bar is suitable only for the uses indicated. Any other use
different from that described in these instructions could cause damage to the
machine and represent a serious hazard for the user.
3.01 - Operational Safety
CAUTION: Our mowers are designed considering safety as the most important
aspect and are the safest available in today’s market. Unfortunately, human
carelessness can override the safety features built into our machines. Injury
prevention and work safety, aside from the features on our mowers, are very
much due to the responsible use of the equipment. It must always be operated
prudently following with great care, the safety instructions laid out in this manual.
1. The use of this equipment is subject to certain hazards which cannot be prevented
by mechanical means or product design. All operators of this equipment must read
and understand this entire manual, paying particular attention to safety and
operating instructions, prior to using.
2. Do not operate the tractor and implement when you are tired, sick or when using
medication.
3. Keep all helpers and bystanders at least 50 feet from the implement. Only properly
trained people should operate this machine.
OPERATION 10 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

4. Accidents are most likely to occur with machines that are loaned or rented to
someone who has not read the operator’s manual and is not familiar with the
implement.
5. The majority of accidents involve entanglements on the driveline, injury of
bystanders by objects thrown by the rotating blades, and operators being knocked
off the tractor by low hanging limbs and then being run over by the mower. Accidents
are most likely to occur with machines that are loaned or rented to someone who
has not read the operator’s manual and is not familiar with a rotary mower.
6. Always stop the tractor, set brake, shut off the tractor engine, remove the ignition
key, lower implement to the ground and allow mower blades to come to a complete
stop before dismounting tractor. Never leave equipment unattended with the tractor
running.
7. Never place hands or feet under mower with tractor engine running or before you
are sure all motion has stopped. Stay clear of all moving parts.
8. Do not allow riders on the mower or tractor at any time. There is no safe place for
riders.
9. Do not operate unless all personnel, livestock and pets are several feet away to
prevent injury by thrown objects.
10.Before backing up, disengage the mower and look behind carefully.
11.Install and secure all guards and shields before starting or operating.
12.Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from moving parts.
13.This mower is designed for use only on tractors with 540 rpm power take off.
14.Never operate tractor and mower under trees with low hanging limbs. Operators can
be knocked off the tractor and then run over by the rotating blades.
15.The rotating parts of this machine have been designed and tested for rugged use.
However, they could fail upon impact with heavy, solid objects such as steel guard
rails and concrete abutments. Such impact could cause the broken objects to be
thrown outward at very high velocities. To reduce the possibility of property damage,
serious injury, or even death, never allow the cutting blades to contact such
obstacles.
16.Frequently check mower blades. They should be sharp, free of nicks and cracks and
securely fastened.
17.Stop mower immediately upon striking an obstruction. Turn engine off, remove key,
inspect and repair any damage before resuming operation.
18.Stay alert for holes, rocks and roots in the terrain and other hidden hazards. Keep
away from drop-offs.
19.Use extreme care and maintain minimum ground speed when transporting on
hillside, over rough ground and when operating close to ditches or fences. Be careful
when turning sharp corners.
20.Reduce speed on slopes and sharp turns to minimize tipping or loss of control. Be
careful when changing directions on slopes. Do not start or stop suddenly on slopes.
Avoid operation on steep slopes.
21.When using a unit, a minimum 20% of tractor and equipment weight must be on
tractor front wheels. Without this weight, tractor could tip over, causing personal
injury or death. The weight may be attained with a front end loader, front wheel
weights, ballast in tires or front tractor weights. When attaining a minimum 20% of
OPERATION 11 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

tractor and equipment weight on the front wheels, you must not exceed the ROPS
weight certification. Weigh the tractor and equipment. Do not guess or estimate!
22.Inspect the entire machine periodically2. Look for loose fasteners, worn or broken
parts, and leaky or loose fittings.
23.Use only the driveline supplied with the mower. Do not use it if it is missing any
shield or safety protection.
24.Pass diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp drops to prevent “hanging up”
tractor and mower.
25.Avoid sudden starts and stops while traveling up or downhill.
26.Always cut down slopes; never across the face. Avoid operation on steep slopes.
Slow down on sharp turns and slopes to prevent tipping and or loss of control.
3.02 - Setup
Notice to dealer: Pre-delivery setup and service including lubrication is the
responsibility of the authorized dealer. It is up to him to assure that the machine is in
perfect condition and ready to be used. It is his responsibility to ensure that the
customer is aware of all safety aspects and operational procedures for the mower. He
must also fill out the Pre-Delivery Checklist3prior to delivering the mower.
3.03 - Pre-Operational Check
IMPORTANT: Check each of the following, carefully, prior to engaging the equipment:
1. All lubrication points have been greased.
2. The belts for proper tension.
3. The driveline cross and bearings have been greased.
4. No wrappings or foreign objects are around the blades, belts or driveline.
5. The blades are properly installed.
6. All hardware is tight.
7. The tractor, to ensure correct direction of PTO and rpm speed.
8. All safety shields and guards are in place and tightly attached.
9. No people or animals are in the work area.
10.When working, make sure the tractor hitch is in the “float” position, in order to allow
the mower to follow the contour of the ground.
DANGER: Stay clear of rotating driveline. Entanglement in rotating driveline can
cause serious injury. Disengage PTO, engage parking brake or place
transmission in “Park”, shut off the tractor and remove the key before working
around hitch, attaching or detaching driveline, making adjustments, servicing or
cleaning the machine.
OPERATION 12 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
3See Chapter 7 - Pre-Delivery Checklist.
2See Chapter 4 - Maintenance.

3.04 - Attaching to the Tractor
Models BSB-006 and BSB-007 may be used on tractors up to 75 HP and a category 1
or 2 three point hitch. Model BSB-005 may be used on tractors up to 35 HP and a
category 1 three point hitch on BSB-0054.
CAUTION: Check the tractor PTO rpm to ensure it is set at 540 and turns
clockwise.
CAUTION: Always ensure that the tractor tire pressure is correct according to the
tractor operator’s manual.
DANGER: Failure to ensure a secure coupling of the implement to the tractor can
cause injury and damage to the implement or tractor.
Before connecting the unit to the tractor, make sure that all parts are properly in place
and that all bolts and nuts are well tightened and all parts are correctly lubricated.
1. Make sure that pins (A) of the three point hitch are clean and greased, connect them
to the tractor link arms (B) and block with lynch pins (C) (see fig. 5). IMPORTANT:
According to the type of tractor you have, use either internal or external hitch pins in
order that the inner skid of the sickle bar mower (A) (see fig. 6) remains behind the
tractor wheel.
OPERATION 13 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
4See Table 2, page 27.
Fig. 5 - Attaching to the tractor.

2. Connect the PTO shaft and three point hitch top link (B) (see fig. 7).
3. Attach the chain hitch plate to the three point hitch (see fig. 8) or use the “U” bolt
(supplied with the mower) to connect the chain to the tractor. Make sure that the
chain is connected at approximately the same height of the three point hitch and to a
rigid location of the tractor.
4. Install PTO shaft to tractor and make sure shaft is locked on the tractor PTO prior to
engagement. Check that PTO shaft guard is free to turn and secure it with the
relative latches. Remove the guard over the cutting blades.
5. Using hydraulic lift raise sickle bar mower and adjust chain (see fig. 8) so that PTO
shaft is horizontal. Clearance of lower part of sickle bar mower frame should be of
16” from ground (see fig. 9).
6. After the adjustment is completed, mark chain ring in order to have always the same
cutting height. Raise foot support and bring into working position and fasten with split
pin (A) (see fig. 10).
OPERATION 14 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8

IMPORTANT: See Section 4.03 - Driveline, to ensure the driveline is the proper length.
Hydraulic lift system (BSB-006 & BSB-007):
1. Before starting working operations turn release support (A) downwards (see fig. 11).
2. Before disconnecting unit from tractor turn release support (A) upwards (see fig.
12). This will allow operator to keep the two pins in horizontal position and facilitate
successive linkage operations.
3. Connect hydraulic hose to tractor.
4. Mount on tractor and close cylinder using the appropriate lever. This will raise unit
completely.
5. IMPORTANT: Never close hydraulic cylinder if release support (A) has not been
turned downwards (see fig. 11).
6. Check that raising and lowering operations of sickle bar mower blade are smooth. If
adjustments are necessary read instructions below under “hydraulic cylinder flow
valve adjustments”.
OPERATION 15 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
Fig. 9 Fig. 10
Fig. 12Fig. 11
unlocked position locked position

Hydraulic lift system (BSB-005):
1. Connect hydraulic hose to tractor.
2. Mount on tractor and close cylinder using the appropriate lever. This will raise unit
completely.
3. Check that raising and lowering operations of sickle bar mower blade are smooth. If
adjustments are necessary read instructions below under “hydraulic cylinder flow
valve adjustments”.
Sickle bar mowers are equipped with a flow regulation valve that allows operator to
adjust the speed at which the cutting bar is raised or lowered.
Hydraulic cylinder flow valve adjustments (all models):
To adjust raising and lowering speed of sickle bar mower blade proceed as follows:
If blade raises up too fast, from tractor seat turn valve (A) in clockwise direction (see
fig. 13). This will gradually reduce oil flow and consequently reduce speed. Adjust
until you obtain a slow raising movement.
If descend speed of blade is too fast, from tractor seat turn valve (B) (see fig. 13) in
a counterclockwise direction. This will gradually reduce oil flow and consequently
reduce descending speed. Adjust until you obtain a slow movement.
WARNING: An improper adjustment of the flow regulation valve that results in
cutting bar to be raised or lowered too rapidly may cause implement failure and
personal injury.
OPERATION 16 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
Fig. 13

3.05 - Start Up
Lower mower to the ground using the hydraulic lift. Step down from tractor and remove
blade attachment rod (A) (see fig. 20) and place in position on frame. Lower sickle bar
mower blade. During working operations ensure that release support (A) (see fig. 11) is
in the downward position.
DANGER: The mower must always be lowered to the ground before starting
tractor engine or engaging PTO lever. It is forbidden to stand between the tractor
and linkage to operate the lifting controls of the tractor from outside of the
drivers seat.
With the engine idling, slowly engage the PTO drive. Move the throttle lever until the
PTO speed indicated on the mower is obtained.
The mower is set for a PTO speed of 540 rpm.
Shift the transmission to a slow speed gear and start forward, increase the ground
speed by shifting upward until the desired speed is obtained.
CAUTION: Do not operate this mower at a PTO speed or direction of rotation
other than that shown on the mower. Serious damage can occur to the machine
and/or the operator.
Before starting to mow, never forget that the operator is responsible for the following:
1. Safe and correct driving of the tractor and mower.
2. To learn precise safe operating procedures for both the tractor and the mower.
3. To ensure all maintenance and lubrication has been performed on the mower.
4. To have read and understood all safety aspects for the mower in the operator’s
manual.
5. To have read and understood all safety decals on the mower.
6. Checking the condition of the blades. Worn or damaged blades should be changed
before starting.
7. Checking that there is no wire, weed, grass or other material wrapped around
blades.
8. Checking to see if front weights need to be added to the tractor in order to maintain
balance.
9. Checking the tractor tires for the proper pressure in accordance with the tractor
operator’s manual.
10.Checking that the PTO shield, belt shields and all other shielding are on the
machine and securely in place.
11.Making sure the proper attire is worn. Avoiding loose fitting clothing which can
become entangled. Wearing sturdy, tough-soled work shoes and protective
equipment for eyes, hands, ears and head. Never operate tractor or implements in
bare feet, sandals or sneakers.
OPERATION 17 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

12.Checking area for stones, branches and other debris that might be thrown.
13.Ensuring proper lighting is available, sunlight or good artificial lighting.
3.06 - Working Speed
The mowing speed depends on ground conditions, tractor HP, mowing height, and
grass thickness. Only a test run will enable you to gauge the optimal working speed for
your conditions. Under most conditions a 5 to 6 mph ground speed is best. For a good
quality cut it is recommended to keep a steady work speed no slower than 5 mph. This
will facilitate grass discharge. Working speed should never exceed 6.5 mph to avoid
damage to the unit.
In order to avoid clogging up of blade or if grass is tangled or flattened it is
recommended to keep cutting bar grazing the ground.
In order to obtain the best cut possible, always keep the tractor rpm up to the speed
indicated on the mower. When increasing or decreasing mowing ground speed, always
use gear selection, not engine speed. This will maintain the constant maximum blade
speed necessary for a clean cut.
All of the following factors are important in selecting the proper forward speed:
1. Height of grass.
2. Type of grass.
3. Density of grass.
4. Type of terrain.
5. Grass condition, wet or dry.
3.07 - Operating Techniques
DANGER: If blades become jammed it is advisable to operate carefully wearing
adequate personal protection before attempting to free them from obstruction.
Always operate PTO at 540 rpm. This is necessary to maintain proper blade speed,
obtain a clean cut and reduce the risk of jamming the blades.
Always raise the implement before reversing or changing direction.
Safety release breakaway latch
The sickle bar mower is protected with a safety release mechanism. If an obstruction is
hit the cutter bar will swing back. If this were to occur, immediately stop tractor,
disengage PTO, lock parking brake and turn off tractor engine without raising sickle bar.
Ensure that the inner and outer tubes of the PTO shaft are not separated. If they are
separated, reassemble PTO shaft in correct position.
To reset safety release; back up tractor until latch returns to its normal position. If safety
release latch breaks away too often adjust spring (B) using nut (A) (see fig. 14) and
tighten half turn at the time.
OPERATION 18 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL

Belt tension
Check periodically belt tension. Unscrew small window opening (A) on protection guard
(see fig. 16). If necessary, tighten belt using nut and jam nut (A), (see fig. 15).
Cutting height adjustment
Lower sickle bar mower on ground and adjust turnbuckle on top link (A) (see fig. 17)
until the desired cutting height is obtained.
In rough ground conditions or on stony terrain make sure that cutting height is adequate
in order to avoid damage to cutting bar.
OPERATION 19 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL
Fig. 14
Fig. 16Fig. 15
Fig. 17

DANGER: The mower blades can throw objects hundreds of feet which could
result in personal or property damage.
Pick up all rocks and other debris before mowing.
Enter new areas carefully. Cut grass higher at first, allowing mower to clear
hidden objects.
CAUTION: For emergency reasons learn how to stop the tractor and mower
quickly. On the sickle bar mower always disengage the PTO, lock parking brake,
stop engine and allow the blades to come to a complete stop before dismounting
the tractor.
3.08 - Uneven Terrain
DANGER: Be careful of rollover when operating tractor and implement over
uneven ground.
The following precautions should always be observed when working on uneven terrain:
1. In extremely uneven terrain rear wheel weights, front tractor weights, and/or tire
ballast should be used to improve stability.
2. Observe the type of terrain and develop a safe working pattern.
3. Whenever traction or stability is doubtful, first test drive over the terrain with the PTO
disengaged.
4. Operate the implement up and down steep slopes, not across slopes, to prevent the
tractor from tipping. Avoid sudden stops and starts, slow down before changing
directions on a slope.
5. Pass diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp drops to prevent hanging up the
tractor and implement.
6. Slow down on sharp turns and slopes to prevent tipping or loss of control.
7. Watch for holes, roots or other hidden objects. Do not use near the edge of a gully,
ditch or stream bank.
3.09 - Removing Mower from Tractor
To remove the mower from the tractor do the following:
1. Set up sickle bar on level and solid ground.
2. Disengage tractor PTO.
3. Set parking brake.
4. Raise the sickle bar mower completely.
5. Using lever on tractor, draw out cylinder shaft about 10”.
OPERATION 20 BEFCO
SICKLE BAR MOWERS OPERATOR’SMANUAL