Chapman machinery Mgf350 User manual

MGF350 Mounted Game Feeder

Original Instructions

Chapman Machinery Ltd, Hele Barton, Week St. Mary, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 6XR

Tel: 01288 308149

Page 2 
 
 
Contents 
 
HSE Information...............................................................................................................................................3 
Important Safety Information..........................................................................................................................4 
DEFINITIONS.................................................................................................................................................4 
Safety Information.......................................................................................................................................4 
Transportation Safety ..................................................................................................................................4 
Operating Safety ..........................................................................................................................................4 
Description.......................................................................................................................................................4 
Identification................................................................................................................................................5 
Implement Decals ........................................................................................................................................5 
Attachment ......................................................................................................................................................6 
Before Attaching the Machine.....................................................................................................................6 
Attaching the Machine.................................................................................................................................7 
Initial Calibration..............................................................................................................................................9 
Control Box ....................................................................................................................................................10 
Operating Limits & Recommendations..........................................................................................................11 
Forward Speed...........................................................................................................................................11 
Storage.......................................................................................................................................................11 
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................12 
Warranty........................................................................................................................................................13 
The Chapman Warranty.............................................................................................................................13 
Warranty Conditions..................................................................................................................................13 
Transfer of Warranty .................................................................................................................................13 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THIS MANUAL MUST BE HANDED TO THE OPERATOR BEFORE USE. THE OPERATOR MUST UNDERSTAND FULLY 
THE CONTENT OF THIS HANDBOOK BEFORE USING THE MACHINE FOR THE FIRST TIME. OF THE IMPLEMENT IS 
RESOLD, THIS MANUAL MUST ACCOMPANY THE MACHINE. 
 
 
 
NOTE: 
 
The information contained in this manual is correct at the time of going to press. However, in the course of 
development, changes in specification are inevitable. Should you find the information given differs from your 
machine, please contact Chapman Machinery Ltd direct for advice. Use only Chapman Genuine Service Parts on 
Chapman Machinery and Machines 

Page 3

HSE Information

Safe use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in agriculture and forestry –AIS Sheet 33

Introduction

This information sheet gives advice on the safe use of ATVs. It covers

the two main types used in off-road working in agriculture and

forestry, which are:

•sit-astride ATV / sit-in machines

•side-by-side mini-utility vehicles,

The Full HSE information sheet can be found here or using the QR

Code at the bottom of the article:

https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ais33.pdf and must be read prior to

any ATV/UTV use. Below are related extracts to trailed machinery.

REMEMBER - GET PROPERLY TRAINED AND ALWAYS WEAR

HEAD PROTECTION

Training

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

(PUWER), there is a legal requirement for employers to provide

adequate training, and to ensure that only employees who have

received appropriate training in their safe use, including the use of

any towed equipment or attachments, are permitted to ride ATVs.

The same requirements apply to the self- employed. HSE regards

training provided by recognised training providers as being

adequate for the purposes of PUWER.

Protective clothing

More than half of all ATV riders have been thrown off at some time.

As these machines are not fitted with either a cab or roll bar, your

only protection is what you wear.

●

Head protection is vital. The majority of ATV fatalities in the

UK in the last ten years have been caused by head injuries.

Nobody who died from head injuries was wearing a helmet.

Helmets would certainly have prevented most, if not all, the

deaths. Youshould always wear a helmet when riding an

ATV. All helmets should have a chinstrap and be capable of

being used with suitable eye protection. The type of helmet

chosen should be based on an assessment of the

circumstances in which the ATV will be used, eg the types of

surface travelled over and anticipated speeds. The harder the

surface and higher the speed the greater the degree of

protection needed. NB: Forestry helmets and industrial hard

hats are not acceptable for any ATVoperations.

●

Wear clothing that is strong and covers your arms and legs.

Gloves are useful for protection and to keep hands warm in

cold weather for good control of the ATV.Wear sturdy, ankle-

covering footwear, eg boots or wellingtons that are strong,

supportive and have good wet grip.

●

Protect your eyes from insects and branches with either a

visor or goggles.

Trailed equipment and loads

Ensure all riders know the manufacturers recommended

towing capacity and drawbar loading limit. Always operate

within these requirements.

Remember that your ability to control the ATV by your body

movements will be considerably reduced when carrying a load or

towing a trailer.

●

When selecting trailed equipment look for:

over-run brakes;

a swivel hitch drawbar;

bead lock rims on wheels;

a low centre of gravity and a wide wheel track;

a long drawbar; and

attachment points for securing a load.

●

Check the weight ratio between your ATV and its trailed load.

This needs to be assessed for each operation. As a general

guide, on level ground, braked trailed equipment can be a

maximum of four times the unladen weight of the ATV. For

unbraked trailed equipment the maximum should be twice

the unladen weight. These loads should be reduced when

working on slopes, uneven ground or poor surface

conditions. Follow the manufacturers advice for your

particular machine.

●

Weight transfer is also important. Stability and resistance to

jack-knifing is improved if some load is transferred onto the

ATVʼs drawbar. Approximately 10% of the gross weight of the

loaded trailer is recommended, but this should not exceed

the manufacturers drawbar loading limit. Remember that

weight transfer can change dramatically when you start going

up or down hill.

●

When selecting mounted equipment, make sure it is within

the manufacturers approved weight limit, with a low centre

of gravity, and controls which are easy to operate but do not

create a hazard. Where equipment is added to one end of the

machine, add ballast at the other end to maintain stability.

●

Loads carried on racks must be well secured, e.g. with ratchet

straps, and be evenly balanced between the front and rear,

except where they are deliberately altered to aid stability

when going up or down a slope.

●

Only tow a load from the hitch point. Loads towed from other

points such as the rear rack have caused sudden rear

overturning even on slight slopes or with slight acceleration.

Ropes or chains should not be used to drag a load where they

can become caught on a wheel. This may lead to

entanglement with the brake cable, causing unexpected

braking.

Further information

For information about health and safety go to

https://www.hse.gov.uk/

may be freely reproduced, except for

advertising, endorsement or

commercial purposes. First published

05/99. Please acknowledge the source

as HSE.

Page 4

Important Safety Information

Always read this manual before fitting or operating the machine –whenever any doubt exists contact your

dealer or the Chapman Machinery Service Department for advice and assistance.

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply throughout this manual:

WARNING - An operating procedure, technique etc., which can result in personal injury or loss of life if not observed

carefully.

CAUTION - An operating procedure, technique etc., which can result in damage to either machine or equipment if

not observed carefully.

NOTE - An operating procedure, technique etc, which is considered essential to emphasis.

LEFT & RIGHT HAND - This term is applicable to the machine when attached to the towing vehicle and is viewed from

the rear –this also applies to tractor references.

Safety Information

•Do not operate this equipment unless you have studied this manual in full

•Only use this machine for its designated task - improper use is both highly dangerous and damaging to

machine components

•Both operators & maintenance fitters should be familiar with the machine and fully aware of dangers

surrounding improper use or incorrect repairs

•Before starting, carry out a visual check on both machine & towing vehicle as regards functionality,road

safety & accident prevention rules

•Even when using the machine correctly, accidents can occur. It is imperative that nobody stand withinthe

danger area. If working near roads, buildings or animals, special attention must be taken to ensure safety.

•Never wear loose clothing which could get caught in rotating equipment

•Never carry passengers on the towing vehicle

•Do not stand near the machine when operating

•Damaged or missing safety decals must be replaced immediately

Transportation Safety

•When transporting, especially over rough ground, reduce speed to prevent damage to machine.

Operating Safety

•Pay special attention when working not to harm livestock if crowding around the machine occurs.

•If anything should become entangled in the mechanism, or blocked in the chute, stop the machine and disconnect

the power before attempting to clear the blockage. DO NOT REACH INTO THE MECHANISM WHEN RUNNING AS

INJURY MAY RESULT.

•Ensure carrying vehicle has sufficient bed load rating to carry the weight of the feeder + feed when full.

Page 5

Description

The MGF350 Mounted Game Feeder is designed for feeding a variety of feedstuffs to game birds such as

pheasants, partridges and guinea fowl. Operating with an electric spinner motor and electric shutter,

ensuring accurate disposition. The rotor and wiring mechanism are all IP67 rated, to ensure trouble-free

usage in even the toughest winter conditions.

The MGF350 has approximately 300kg carrying capacity (feed material dependant), a galvanised metal

hopper and PVC cover. An electronic control box controls the motors and spinner by simple switches

and relays. Fuses are located both inside the control box and on the machine itself.

These machines should however only be used to perform tasks for which they were designed - use of

the machine for any other function may be both dangerous to persons, and potentially damaging to

components. Use of the machine beyond the stated usage may invalidate any applicable warranty, as

well as being potential in breach of applicable safety regulations.

Identification

Each machine is fitted with a serial plate (shown below) which details the following:

1. Model

2. Date of Manufacture (DOM)

3. Serial Number

4. Mass

When enquiring regarding spares or additional

equipment, ensure you have this information to hand.

Implement Decals

If your implement does not contain all of the decals shown below, please contact Chapman Machinery for

replacement decals before use. Note: All decals must be present and visible. It is imperative that these are

replaced if damaged to prevent potential harm to users.

* Carefully read

operators manual before

handling this machine.

Observe instructions and

safety rules when

operating.

*Caution - Entanglement

Hazard. Keep hands

away from moving parts

Page 6

Component Identification

Attachment

Before Attaching the Machine

Before attachment, ALWAYS ensure the following:

- The carrying vehicle has sufficient capacity for the fully laden unit (Machine weight circa 90kg + Max

feed capacity (varies with feed used, this must be checked!) = total laden weight

- All safety guards & decals are in good working order and correctly fitted

- Electrical connections are free of dirt and moisture

PVC Tonneau

Cover

Fork lift loading

Slots

Simple Control

Box

Drop Size

calibration

Spinning Plate

Page 7

Attaching the Machine

NOTE: This machine is designed to attach to the carrying vehicle using 4 x ratchet straps. Never use less than 4

straps to secure the load as movement may result!

1. Remove tailgate from carrying vehicle.

2. Load MF350 into bed using forklift slots or

suitable lifting strops rated to carry plated

unladen weight. If fitting for the first time

and the hopper has been shipped ‘upside

down’ then it can be carefully rolled into

the pickup bed by 2 people, as shown

below. Ensure that the control box and

cabling do not get trapped or damaged

during this procedure!

Page 8

3. Centralise hopper in bed and attach using 4

x supplied ratchet straps, 2 straps per side.

Ratchet straps must be fitted in a crossing

manner as shown below! It is the user’s

responsibility to ensure the unit is securely

fitted in the bed.

4. Fit the cover support bar to prevent the

cover sagging as shown below. Fit

tarpaulin cover on top of hopper.

5. Route control module cabling through the chassis so that the control box is within easy reach of the operator

when driving the vehicle. A mounting bracket is supplied for easy fitment, along with plenty of cable to route

around obstructions. The unit is designed to be hard-wired direct to the battery of the vehicle with a dedicated

feed. It is recommended that the control unit be hard-wired into the vehicle to ensure cables do not get snagged

and damaged by tools, equipment, dogs etc; should the hopper need to be removed at a later stage, the plug

can be disconnected from the hopper and the control module can remain in the vehicle when not in use.

6. Calibrate the drop size for the feed being used. This should be completed every time different feed is used to

ensure accurate feed rates. Instructions for calibration are included on the following page.

ENSURE CONTROL EQUIPMENT IS SECURELY ATTACHED TO THE TOWING

VEHICLE BEFORE USE

Page 9

Initial Calibration

On the RH Side at the rear of the machine you will find two black handwheels and an indicator plate as

shown below. Initially set the Feed adjustment plate to setting 2, as indicated by the arrow on the drop

adjustment plate. To adjust, loosen BOTH hand wheels, and slide the unit forwards or backwards to the

desired value. Tighten securely.

Setting 1: Minimum drop size Setting 8: Maximum drop size

Fill the hopper 50% full of the feed to be distributed. Close the two deflector plates at the side of the

spinner and use a 25kg feedbag or similar so that the feed out the back of the spinner can be collected or

weighed. With the machine securely attached to the fitted vehicle and on level ground, run the feeder for

1 minute, Measure the weight of the deposited feed –this is the amount of feed deposited per minute.

Adjust the feed adjustment plate as required to increase or decrease the feedrate.

The feed rate setting will differ between different feed, due to the different particulate size. It is strongly

recommended to re-calibrate if you change feed make-up or consistency.

Once you have set the machine to the desired feed rate, securely tighten the two retaining

handwheels to ensure this does not change during use. Once happy with the feedrate is advisable to

make a mark in indelible ink on the machine so that the rate can be easily recalled if needed.

Page 10

Control Box

The control box on the MGF350 is a simple switched system with relays, as shown below. The LH switch

opens and closes the shutter, and the RH switch turns the main spinner on and off.

Specification

Supply Voltage: 12V DC nominal, 16V MAXIMUM Power

Consumption: OFF: Nominal

ON: Up to 25A *MUST BE WIRED DIRECT TO BATTERY!*

Operating Temperature: -10°C to +40°C

Fuse: Control Box: 10A Blade (inside box)

Main Motor: 30A Maxi (on machine)

Protection rating: IP67

Operation

1. Start the spinner motor by switching ON.

2. Once motor is up to speed (approx. 2 seconds), open shutter to allow feed onto spinner. When stopping

feeding, use procedure in reverse.

Page 11

Operating Limits & Recommendations

Ensure that the operator is suitably qualified to use a machine of this nature and that they have fully read

and understood this manual - they should be aware of all safety aspects relating to the safe use of the

machine.

It is advisable that all ‘first time’ operators practice using the machine in a clear safe area prior to work in

order to familiarise themselves with its operation.

AFTER APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR OF WORK WITH A NEW MACHINE, ALL NUTS, BOLTS AND DRIVE

BELTS SHOULD BE CHECKED FOR TIGHTNESS AND ADJUSTED AS NECESSARY!

Operating Limits

Minimum / Maximum Temperature: -10°C / +40°C

Forward Speed

The forward working speed will affect the distance between drops of feed - to increase the distance

between drops use a faster forward speed, to reduce the distance, use a slower forward speed.

Storage

For extended periods of storage, it is advisable that the machine be kept in a clean dry environment

protected from the elements to avoid risk of corrosion.

The machine should be thoroughly cleaned and lubricated prior to storage. At this point it is good

practice to check the machine for worn or damaged components - any parts that require replacing should

be ordered and fitted at the earliest opportunity so the machine is fully prepared for the next seasons

work.

DO NOT OPERATE BEYOND OPERATING LIMITS, DAMAGE TO MACHINERY OR INJURY TO

OPERATOR MAY OCCUR.

Page 12

Troubleshooting

Problem

Possible Causes

Remedies

Unit will not operate

Low Supply Power

Charge Battery

Incorrect Polarity/poor

connection

Check connection

Fuse Blown

Check fuse in control box

Control Box Fault

Contact distributor / Chapman

Spinner Motor does not

operate even though

shutter is working

Main Fuse Blown

Replace main motor fuse

Shortage in wiring

Check wiring for damage

Motor Fault

Replace motor, contact distributor

Shutter does not operate

Poor connection

Check plug is clean and moisture

free

Obstruction

Check for blockage

Fuse blown

Check fuse inside control box

Actuator damaged

Replace

No material is fed

Jammed actuator plate or spinner

Check for blockages and remove

Hopper bridging

Agitate hopper contents

Feed-rate varies

Blockage or hopper bridging

Check and clear

Feed leaking out

Jammed shutter plate

Check for blockages and remove

Other obstruction

Clear and check

Spinner switched off before shutter

Follow procedure –close shutter

before stopping spinner motor

Page 13

Warranty

The Chapman Warranty

Chapman Machinery Ltd (herein ‘Chapman’ or ‘Chapman Machinery’) warrants that the machine referred to in the Warranty Registration Form will be free

from manufacturing defects for a period of 24 months from the date of sale. This warranty does not affect your statutory rights, but merely adds to them.

Should you have a problem within 24 months from the date of sale please contact your original dealer, or Chapman Machinery’s Service Department.

Any part found to be defective during this period will be replaced or repaired, at our discretion, by the dealer or a authorised Service Engineer.

Warranty Conditions

1. The Warranty Registration Form must be completed and returned to Chapman Machinery Ltd within 30 days of the date of sale

2. This warranty does not cover defects arising from fair wear and tear, wilful damage, negligence, misuse, abnormal working conditions, use in competition,

failure to follow Chapman Machinery’s instructions (oral or written, including all instructions and recommendation made in the Operator’s Manual) or

alteration or repair of the

machinery without prior approval.

3. The machinery must have been serviced in accordance with the Operator’s Manual and the Service Log must have been

kept up to date and made available tothe

dealer should service, repair or warranty work be undertaken.

4. This warranty does not cover claims in respect of wearing parts such as blades, flails, paintwork, tyres, belts, hydraulic hoses, bearings, bushes, linkage pins,

top links, ball ends unless there is a manufacturing or material defect or the cost of normal servicing items such as oils and lubricants.

5. This warranty does not cover any expenses or losses incurred whilst the machinery is out of use for warranty repairs or parts replacement.

6. This warranty does not extend to parts, materials or equipment not manufactured by Chapman Machinery, for which the Buyer shall only be entitled to the

benefit of any such warranty or guarantee given by themanufacturer to Chapman Machinery. Only genuine replacement parts will be allowable for warranty

claims.

7. All parts replaced by Chapman Machinery under warranty become the property of Chapman Machinery and must be returned to Chapman Machinery if

so requested. Such parts may only be disposed of after a warranty claim has been accepted and processed by Chapman Machinery.

8. Chapman Machinery is not liable under this warranty for any repairs carried out without Chapman Machinery’s written consent or without Chapman

Machinery being afforded a reasonable opportunity toinspect the machinery the subject of the warranty claim. Chapman Machinery’s written consent must,

therefore, be obtained before any repairs are carried out or parts replaced. Use of non- Chapman Machinery parts automatically invalidates the Chapman

Warranty.Failed components must not be dismantled except as specifically authorised by Chapman Machinery and dismantling of any components without

authorisation from Chapman Machinery will invalidate this warranty.

9. All warranty claims must be submitted to Chapman Machinery on Chapman Machinery Warranty Claim Forms within 30 days of completion of warranty

work.

Using the machine implies the knowledge and acceptance of these instructions and the limitations contained in this

Manual.

Transfer of Warranty

The Chapman warranty be transferred to a subsequent owner of the machinery (for use within the UK only) for the balance of the warranty period subject to

all of the stated warranty conditions and provided that the Change of Owner form is completed and sent to Chapman Machinery within 14 days of change of

owner- ship.