Bridgeview FLEXCART 48 User manual

FLEXCART 48
Header Transport
Operator’s Manual
Last Updated: July 11, 2022
Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
P.O. Box 4
Gerald, Saskatchewan, Canada
S0A 1B0
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
ii
The Serial Number is located the front gooseneck,
Your Authorized Dealer
Your Serial Number

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OPERATION MANUAL............................................................................................................1
Introduction.............................................................................................................................1
Safety Precautions...................................................................................................................2
Loading the Header.................................................................................................................3
Transportation.........................................................................................................................6
Service & Maintenance .........................................................................................................10
PARTS BOOK..........................................................................................................................12
Main Frame...........................................................................................................................12
Rear Hub Breakdown............................................................................................................14
Dolly Assembly.....................................................................................................................15
Hitch Assembly.....................................................................................................................16
Front Fenders........................................................................................................................17
Front Hub Breakdown...........................................................................................................18
Header Mounts......................................................................................................................19
Decals...................................................................................................................................20
Electrical Schematic..............................................................................................................21
NOTES.................................................................................................................................25

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
1
OPERATION MANUAL
Introduction
The FlexCart 48 is a 48ft long trailer designed to safely and securely transport today’s large combine
headers on the road. It is designed to handle headers up to 50 ft cutting width and up to 14700 lb.
The FlexCart 48 features two storage compartments. One is located at the front beside the gooseneck.
This is available for tool & strap storage. The door can be pulled upward by the handle, then rotated
for access.
The other compartment is located at the back corner. It allows for spare sickle bars to be slid inside
the trailer frame rails. These should be tied to the provided hook to prevent them from sliding.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
2
Safety Precautions
The following safety precautions MUST be followed to ensure safe operation of the FlexCart
Header Transport.
•Fully read through and understand this document.
•Special care is required when transporting this equipment on public roads. Follow all local
regulations.
•Ensure that the tow vehicle is adequate for the weight towed.
•Check the trailer brakes before each trip. There is significant risk of jackknifing the front
axle if the trailer brakes are not functioning properly.
•Always ensure that the header is securely connected to the trailer before moving.
•Always perform a walk-around before each trip to check the important components as laid
out in the remainder of this document
•When loading and unloading the header, make sure that no one is near or under the header,
or between the combine and the trailer. There are many potential hazards and pinch points.
It is best to stay clear until the connection / disconnection is complete.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
3
Loading the Header
Saddle Adjustment
The FlexCart 48 comes with 3 separate types of support brackets designed to work with 45 ft &
50 ft draper and flex draper headers. They are able to be slid along the length of the trailer to best fit
the particular header being transported. This is done by loosening the bolt on each mount. They
should be retightened when in the correct position.
To set the saddle locations:
•Park the trailer on a hard, flat location. Leave connected to the vehicle with the parking brake
engaged.
•Drive the combine with header up to the low side of the trailer. Align the left side to just clear
the trailer gooseneck.
•Drive forward until the cutter bar skid plates are over the far frame rail.
•Slowly lower the header until it just clears the trailer frame.
A/B - Center Support Plates
•Should be adjusted side to side to match the skid locations in the center frame of the header
•The bent lips should be to the outsides
•Adjust the width so that the cutter bar skid plates rest firmly on the far frame. This is done
with the two bent pins.
  














Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
4
C –Pipe Supports
•Adjust so that the plastic pad will catch the large pipe running lengthwise on the header. Adjust
side-to-side to be centered between two of the main support ribs. Make sure that the pipe
support is located near to the tie-down location.
•Ensure that the supports are clear of any structure or mechanism on the underside of the header
•The header should rest on both the pipe supports and the center skid supports when the flex is
relaxed
D –Ratchet Supports
•Adjust to align with tie-down points as indicated in the header manual. Make sure the tie down
point is between the header supports, and also located near the outer pipe support.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
5
Loading the Header
Always follow the specific instructions as laid out in the header manual, but in general:
•Make sure the reel is fully down and in
•Fully retract the gauge wheels
•Make sure all guards and shields are properly closed and latched
•Slowly align and lower the header onto the frame. Make sure all of the supports are properly
aligned as above.
•Disconnect the header from the combine as per the specific header instructions. DO NOT
LOWER MORE THAN NECESSARY. This will put excess pressure on the trailer axles
which may cause damage.
•ALWAYS ENSURE THAT NO ONE IS BETWEEN THE COMBINE AND THE TRAILER,
OR UNDERNEATH EITHER DURING THIS PROCESS.
•Strap the header down to trailer at the provided tie-down points and ratchet strap. Ensure that
there are at least 2 wraps around the ratchet.
Securing the Load
•Check all mounting brackets and straps for tightness. Replace any frayed or cut straps
•Periodically inspect the strap tension on longer trips. Adjust as required.
•Make sure all of the pins for the header mounting brackets are in place
•Make sure there are no loose parts that can be blown out by the wind. All guards must be
closed.
Unloading the Header
•Park the trailer on a hard flat surface. Leave connected to the tow vehicle with the parking
brake engaged.
•Remove the tie down straps. They may be stored in the toolbox located inside the front beam
of the trailer
•Connect to the combine as per the specific header manual
•Slowly raise the header off the trailer frame. Make sure nothing is catching or rubbing.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
6
Transportation
The FlexCart 48 can be safely towed on public roads, provided the following precautions are met: The
trailer is considered a farm implement, and does not need to be licensed in most jurisdictions. Always
comply with local regulations regarding transportation on public roads. Follow all local laws
regarding lighting and marking.
Weights and Dimensions
•The towing vehicle must be suitable for the weight being towed.
•Be aware of your size and weight. Adjust your driving accordingly.
Empty
Loaded *
Total Weight
5800 lb
18000 lb
Length
57’
62’
Width
8’-6”
10’-3”
Height
4’
9’-4”
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Total
20 500 lb
9310 kg
Front Axle
6500 lb
2950 kg
Rear Axle #1
7000 lb
3180 kg
Rear Axle #2
7000 lb
3180 kg
* Loaded dimensions will vary slightly depending on the exact header model transported.
Numbers shown are based on a 50 ft flex header.
Lights and Marking
•Tow vehicle must have a 7-blade trailer plug, or suitable adaptor
•Plug in lights and check for proper function and visibility.
•Ensure that the lights and reflective markers are clean, and visible from all sides

 




















 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
7
Hitch and Safety Chain
•The FlexCart features a telescoping hitch beam for ease of connection to the tow vehicle. To
operate:
oRemove the safety pin
oLift the handle and pull forward. The hitch should extend up to 14”
oConnect the hitch to the tow vehicle
oBack up until the telescope latches
oMake sure the retainer is fully engaged, then REINSTALL THE SAFETY PIN
•The FlexCart features a 2-5/16” ball hitch with built-in safety latch. Ensure that the ball hitch
is fully locked.
•ALWAYS ensure that the safety chains are properly connected to the tow vehicle. There
should be enough slack to allow for turning, but not so much that the chain drags on the ground.
The chains should be crossed under the hitch, and connected to a secure attachment point on
the towing vehicle’s frame.
•Connect the breakaway cable to the tow chain in such a way that if the hitch comes
disconnected in any way, the “key” will pull out and engage the trailer brakes.
•Connect the 7-pin plug.
•Make sure that the bolted connection between the dolly
and the hitch pole is snug. The hitch should move up and
down with light pressure, but have very little side to side
movement. Tighten the castle nut as necessary.







Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
8
Wheels and Tires
•Check tire pressure and wheel torque. Wheels must be retorqued soon after being towed for
the first time. They should be periodically checked thereafter.
•Periodically inspect the tire treads for wearing, bulging, flat spots, etc. Tire issues are not
covered by Bridgeview and must be dealt with by your local tire shop.
Tires
ST235/80 R16, 10 ply
Rims
16x6, 8 on 6.5”
Rear Axles
7000 lb Torflex
Front Axle
6500 lb Torflex
Tire Rating
3500 lb
Tire Pressure
80 psi
Speed & Travel
•This trailer features highway axles, tires, and hubs and is suitable for highway speeds.
•The trailer features electric brakes on the two rear axles. These should be connected to the tow
vehicle and should be tested to ensure they are working.
•Regardless of the rating, the trailer should only be pulled at a speed which is safe for the current
conditions. Rough roads, inclement weather, cross winds, and other factors will lower the safe
travel speed. Adjust accordingly.
•The loaded trailer has a high center of gravity. This, combined with the dolly-style front axle,
means that the trailer will be more prone to tipping over during high-speed cornering. Sharp
turns should be taken with caution.
•The trailer has a long rear overhang, especially when loaded. This results in a large amount of
tail swing which must be accounted for when turning.
•Periodically check the tie-down straps. Adjust as necessary. Check that the load has not
shifted.
Wheel Torque Increment
First 50 km (30 mi) if empty
First 25 km (15 mi) if loaded
* 160 ft-lb *

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
9
Brakes
•The trailer features electric drum brakes on the two rear axles. The towing vehicle MUST
HAVE a functioning trailer brake controller.
•The trailer features an electric breakaway kit to activate
the trailer brakes in the case of the trailer separatingfrom
the towing vehicle. Tie the breakaway cable securely to
the tow vehicle, and plug the other end into the switch.
* Make sure this is plugged in before moving. When
it is removed, the brakes will activate.
oThe breakaway switch will only activate when
the trailer is plugged into the tow vehicle. It will
not act as a parking brake on a slope for example.
Wheels should be chocked as necessary when the
trailer is disconnected.
•Make sure that the breakaway battery is fully charged.
Press the button on the side of box. A green light indicates full charge. A red light indicates
low charge. Plugging the trailer plug into a vehicle will charge it (approximately 20 minutes
for full charge). An amber light will show while the battery is connected to a vehicle.
oThe battery charger may drain the vehicle’s battery when the vehicle is turned off. To
determine if this is the case, look for the amber light on the side of the breakaway
battery kit. To protect the vehicle’s battery, the trailer should be unplugged if left
connected overnight.
•Check that the brakes are functioning properly before each trip. Slowly drive forward, then
apply the brakes. They should apply just before the towing vehicle’s brakes, but not so early
that they tug on the vehicle, or lock up. Adjustments should be made using the vehicle’s brake
controller.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
10
Service & Maintenance
With proper service and maintenance, your FlexCart trailer will provide years of trouble-free
operation. As is typical with other seasonal pieces of equipment, setting up for long term storage in
the off season is critical for longevity. There are a few key areas that require special attention:
Axles:
-The FlexCart features Dexter EZ-Lube axles. Lubricate as follows:
oRemove the rubber plug inside the hub cap
oInstall a grease gun to the zerk inside. Apply grease until new grease begins to flow
back through the bearings.
oRotate the hub slowly while applying grease
oWipe away excess grease, and reinstall the rubber cap
-Check all mounting bolts.
-Inspect the hub bearings. There should be minimal play in the hub. It should spin smoothly,
with some resistance, but still easily by hand. Check for grease coming out of the inner seal.
-Full removal and inspection should be done at 12000 miles.
-Consult the Dexter service manual:
Brakes:
-Check the breakaway battery kit. Push the button on the side of the gooseneck. If necessary,
charge the battery (12 volt DC). This can be done by plugging the trailer into a vehicle for up
to 20 minutes.
-If sitting long term, the battery can be removed and stored in a warm dry location. This will
help to prevent premature damage to the battery. Periodic charging may be necessary.
-Check that each brake is operational. This should be done before every trip.
-Readjust the brakes after 200 miles.
-Fully disassemble and inspect the brakes after 12000 miles.
-Consult the Dexter service manual:
https://www.dexteraxle.com/user_area/content_media/raw/600-8k_complete_service_manual.pdf
https://www.dexteraxle.com/user_area/content_media/raw/600-8k_complete_service_manual.pdf

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
11
Lights:
-Inspect the wires for bare spots, fraying, etc.
-Inspect the weather pack connectors. Make sure they are properly connected.
-Check that the 7-pin plug functions properly
Tires:
-Check tire pressure 80 psi
-Check wheel nut torque 160 ft-lb
-Check tires for cracks, tread life, uneven wear, & flat spots
-If sitting long term, jacking the frame up will help to avoid flat spots forming in the tires.
Front Dolly:
-Grease the pivot (both top and bottom)
-Check that the hitch pole connection to the dolly is tight. It should have little to no play side
to side, but still be able to move up and down with minor pressure. Adjust the castle nut as
necessary. It should be tight enough to hold the hitch in the air, but still be able to be pushed
up and down by hand.
-Check that the fenders are not in contact with the tires, and have enough clearance to handle
bumps.
-Check that the wires have not wrapped around the pivot shaft, and that they have sufficient
slack to allow for turning
-Make sure that the telescoping hitch can freely open and close, and that the lock functions
properly and securely.
Off-Season Storage
-Park in a high, flat area, not prone to flooding. Always chock the wheels (one chock each side
of the two outside tires). The brakes do not work unless plugged in.
-Remove the breakaway battery and store in a warm, dry area. Periodically charge as necessary.
-Raise the hitch off of the ground. Make sure all chains & cables are held off the ground.
-Inspect the frame flange hardware. Replace any damaged or missing hardware.

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
12
PARTS BOOK
Main Frame







  












 




 
 




  

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
13
MAIN FRAME
Description
ID #
QTY
1
Main Frame Front
34165
1
2
Main Frame Rear
34166
1
3
Complete Rear Axle
# see breakdown
33977
2
4
Wheel, ST235/80R16, 10 ply 1
-
4
5
Wheel Nut
15948
32
6
Spring, 11/16” x 2”
21713
2
7
Junction Box
13668
1
8
Breakaway Kit 2
12025
1
9
Operator Manual Holder
22409
1
10
Wiring Clamp
13629
6
11
Red Light
21721
2
12
Light Grommet
21723
2
13
Wiring Grommet
34107
4
14
Front Storage Cover Plate
34161
1
Description
ID #
QTY
15
Rear Storage Cover Plate
34160
1
16
Bolt, 3/4 x 2”
13800
22
17
Washer, 3/4” Flat
13717
44
18
Nut, 3/4” Stover Lock
11823
22
19
Bolt, 5/8 x 1-1/2”
33953
8
20
Washer, 5/8” Flat
13975
8
21
Nut, 5/8” Stover Lock
18055
8
22
Bolt, 7/16 x 3”
21784
2
23
Nut, 7/16” Nylon Lock
10799
2
24
Bolt, 3/8 x 1”
13806
6
25
Nut, 3/8” Nylon Lock
10806
4
26
Bolt, 5/16 x 1”
20906
2
27
Bolt, 1/4 x 1”
11810
8
28
Washer, 1/4” Flat
11666
8
29
Nut, 1/4” Nylon Lock
11664
4
1Tires & rims are not available from Bridgeview. See your local tire dealer.
2Breakaway kit includes breakaway plug & battery / control box

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
14
Rear Hub Breakdown
Description
ID #
QTY
1a
Complete Brake Assembly LH
# Individual parts through Dexter
34220
1
1b
Complete Brake Assembly RH
# Individual parts through Dexter
34221
1
2
Complete Hub Assembly
# Includes studs & races
34222
1
2a
Drive-in Stud, 9/16”
34223
8
2b
Inner Bearing Race
10349
1
2c
Outer Bearing Race
34226
1
3
Seal
34227
1
Description
ID #
QTY
4
Inner Bearing
34224
1
5
Outer Bearing
34225
1
6
D-Washer
34231
1
7
Nut
34232
1
8
Retainer
34233
1
9
Dust Cap
34228
1
10
Dust Cap Plug
34229
1














Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
15
Dolly Assembly
Description
ID #
QTY
1
Hitch Axle Pivot
34158
1
2
Front Axle Assembly
33918
1
3
Hitch Pivot Washer
33948
1
4
Hitch Pivot Cap
34167
1
5
Wheel, ST235/80R16, 10 ply 1
-
1
6
Wheel Nut
15948
16
7
Bolt, 3/4 x 5-1/2”
14471
1
Description
ID #
QTY
8
Nut, 3/4” Stover Lock
11823
1
9
Bolt, 5/8 x 2-1/2” NF Gr.8
14649
4
10
Bolt, 5/8 x 2” NF Gr.8
14143
2
11
Washer, 5/8” Flat
13975
6
12
Nut, 5/8” Stover Flange NF
15398
6
13
Grease Zerk, 1/8” NPT
10270
2
1Tires & rims are not available from Bridgeview. See your local tire dealer.




















Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
FlexCart 48 Header Transport
16
Hitch Assembly
Description
ID #
QTY
1
Dolly Mount
34158
1
2
Inner Drawbar
34156
1
3
Outer Drawbar
34154
1
4
Drawbar Telescope Stopper
34155
1
5
Telescope Lock Bracket
34157
1
6
Telescope Lock Spring
33979
1
7
Safety Chain - Complete
33943
2
7a
Safety Chain Hook
34149
2
7b
Safety Chain
13960
2
8
Ball Hitch, 2-5/16”
33941
1
9
Breakaway Kit 2
12025
1
10
Bolt, 1 x 5-1/4” NF
33978
1
11
Castle Nut, 1”
23566
1
12
Bolt, 5/8 x 4-1/2” Gr.8
14255
1
Description
ID #
QTY
13
Bolt, 5/8 x 1-1/2” Gr.8
33953
4
14
Nut, 5/8” Stover Lock
18055
5
15
Bolt, 1/2 x 1-1/2”
10174
1
16
Washer, 1/2” Flat
17390
1
17
Nut, 1/2” Stover Lock
14393
5
18
Bolt, 5/16 x 3/4”
20903
1
19
Nut, 5/16” Nylon Lock
11815
1
20
Bolt, 1/4 x 3/4”
11809
1
21
Nut, 1/4” Nylon Lock
11664
1
22
Hair Pin
16363
1
23
Cotter Pin, 3/16 x 2”
11670
1
24
Optional Pintle Hitch Kit
* Includes 25,26,14
34240
*
25
3” Pintle Hitch Tow Ring
15886
1
26
Bolt, 5/8 x 4” Gr.8
33037
2
2Breakaway kit includes breakaway plug & battery / control box











 






 










