Charles Machine Works Ditch Witch RT125 User manual

RT125
Operator’s
Manual
1Issue 2.1
Original Instruction 053-2942

RT125 Operator’s Manual Overview - 1
Overview
Chapter Contents
Serial Number Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Equipment Modification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Unit Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Operator Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
• Bulleted Lists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
• Numbered Lists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Overview - 2 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Serial Number Location
Serial Number Location
Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. RT125 (1) and engine serial numbers (2)
are located as shown.
Date of manufacture
Date of purchase
RT125 serial number
Front attachment serial number
Rear attachment serial number
Trailer serial number
Engine serial number

RT125 Operator’s Manual Overview - 3
Intended Use
Intended Use
The RT125 is a riding trencher designed to install buried service lines of various sizes using a variety of
Ditch Witch®attachments.
This unit is designed for operation in ambient temperatures from -20° to 117° F (-29 to 47°C). Contact your
Ditch Witch dealer for provisions required for operating in extreme temperatures. Use in any other way is
considered contrary to the intended use.
The RT125 should be used with genuine Ditch Witch chain, teeth, and sprockets. It should be operated,
serviced, and repaired only by persons familiar with their particular characteristics and acquainted with the
relevant safety procedures.
Equipment Modification
This equipment was designed and built in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
Modification of equipment could mean that it will no longer meet regulations and may not function properly
or in accordance with the operating instructions. Modification of equipment should only be made by
competent personnel possessing knowledge of applicable standards, regulations, equipment design
functionality/requirements and any required specialized testing.
Attachment* Max. width/diameter Max. depth
BH120 backhoe 24” (610 mm) 105” (2.7 m)
CT120H trencher 24” (610 mm) 93” (2.36 m)
ST120H trencher 24” (610 mm) 90” (2.29 m)
PT120H combo n/a 70” (1.78 m)
RC30 reel carrier 84” (2.13 m) reel dia n/a
RS40 saw 103” (1.03 m) 40.5” (1.03 m)
VP120H plow 3” (80 mm) 40” (1.074 m)
*The attachments listed are not all inclusive. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for more information.
NOTICE: The protection offered by the Rollover Protective System (ROPS) will be impaired if it has
been subjected to any modification, structural damage, or has been involved in an overturn accident.
The ROPS must be replaced after a roll-over.

Overview - 4 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Unit Components
Unit Components
1. Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)
2. Operator station
3. Control consoles
4. Engine compartment
5. Backfill blade (optional)

RT125 Operator’s Manual Overview - 5
Operator Orientation
Operator Orientation
Right and left sides of machine are determined by
facing front of unit while seated at the controls.
About This Manual
This manual contains information for the proper use of this machine. See Operation Overview for basic
operating procedures. Cross references such as “See page 50” will direct you to detailed procedures.
Bulleted Lists
Bulleted lists provide helpful or important information or contain procedures that do not have to be
performed in a specific order.
Numbered Lists
Numbered lists contain illustration callouts or list steps that must be performed in order.
1. Front of unit
2. Right of unit
3. Rear of unit
4. Left of unit
t50om008w.eps
1
2
3
4

Overview - 6 RT125 Operator’s Manual
About This Manual

RT125 Operator’s Manual Foreword - 7
Foreword
This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides safety information and operation
instructions to help you use and maintain your Ditch Witch®equipment.
Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the equipment at all times for future reference.
If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need assistance in locating a
dealer, visit our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address:
The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Attn: Marketing Department
PO Box 66
Perry, OK 73077-0066
USA
The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to change without notice. The Charles
Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to improve equipment. Some product improvements may have
taken place after this manual was published. For the latest information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your
Ditch Witch dealer.
Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment.

Foreword - 8 RT125 Operator’s Manual
RT125 T4
Operator’s Manual
Issue number 2.1/OM-06/17
Part number 053-2942
Copyright 2016, 2017
by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
and Ditch Witch are registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
This product and its use may be covered by one or more patents at http://patents.charlesmachine.works.

RT125 Operator’s Manual Contents - 9
Contents
Overview
machine serial number, information about the type of work this machine is designed
to perform, basic machine components, and how to use this manual
1
Foreword
part number, revision level, and publication date of this manual, and factory contact
information
7
Safety
machine safety alerts and emergency procedures 11
Controls
machine controls, gauges, displays, and indicators and how to use them 29
Operation Overview
an overview for completing a job with this machine: planning, setting up, installing
product, and restoring the jobsite; with cross references to detailed procedures
69
Prepare
procedures for inspecting and classifying the jobsite, planning the installation path,
and preparing the jobsite for work
73
Drive
procedures for startup, cold start, driving, and shutdown 81
Transport
procedures for lifting, hauling, and towing 87
Backhoe
procedures for digging with backhoe 99
Trench
procedures for trenching 107
Reel Carrier
procedures for using reel carrier 113
Saw
procedures for sawing 117

Contents - 10 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Plow
procedures for plowing 123
Drill
procedures for drilling 131
Systems and Equipment
chain, teeth, sprockets, and optional equipment 143
Complete the Job
procedures for backfilling and restoring the jobsite and rinsing and storing
equipment
149
Service
service intervals and instructions for this machine including lubrication, replacement
of wear items, and basic maintenance
151
Specifications
machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid
capacities
197
Support
the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty
consideration and training
217
Service Record
a record of major service performed on the machine 221
Appendix
additional information about Ditch Witch®equipment 223

RT125 Operator’s Manual Safety - 11
Safety
Chapter Contents
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
California Proposition 65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
• Electric Strike Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
• If an Electric Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
• If a Gas Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
• If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
• If Machine Catches on Fire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
• Safety Alert Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Safety Alert Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Machine Safety Alerts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Safety - 12 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Guidelines
Guidelines
When you see this safety alert sign, carefully read and follow all instructions.
YOUR SAFETY IS AT STAKE. Read this entire section before using your equipment.
Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment:
• Complete proper training and read operator’s manual before using equipment.
• Mark proposed path with white paint and have underground utilities located before working. In the US
or Canada, call 811 (US) or 888-258-0808 (US and Canada). Also contact any local utilities that do not
participate in the One-Call service. In countries that do not have a One-Call service, contact all local
utility companies to have underground utilities located.
• Classify jobsite based on its hazards and use correct tools and machinery, safety equipment, and work
methods for jobsite.
• Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away.
• Wear personal protective equipment.
• Review jobsite hazards, safety and emergency procedures, and individual responsibilities with all
personnel before work begins. Safety videos are available from your Ditch Witch®dealer or at
www.ditchwitch.com/safe. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available at www.ditchwitch.com/support.
• Fully inspect equipment before operating. Repair or replace any worn or damaged parts. Replace
missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for assistance.
• Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate anything that does not look or feel right.
• Do not operate machine where flammable gas may be present.
• Only operate equipment in well-ventilated areas.
• Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question about operation, maintenance, or equipment
use.
• Complete the equipment checklist located at www.ditchwitch.com/safe.
California Proposition 65 Warning
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
• battery posts, terminals and related accessories
• engine exhaust
• ethylene glycol

RT125 Operator’s Manual Safety - 13
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Procedures
Before operating any equipment, review emergency procedures and check that all safety precautions have
been taken.
Electric Strike Description
When working near electric cables, remember the following:
• Electricity follows all paths to ground, not just path of least resistance.
• Pipes, hoses, and cables will conduct electricity back to all equipment.
• Low voltage current can injure or kill. Many work-related electrocutions result from contact with less
than 440 volts.
Most electric strikes are not noticeable, but indications of a strike include:
• power outage
•smoke
•explosion
• popping noises
• arcing electricity
If any of these occur, assume an electric strike has occurred.
Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use
correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment.
EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to stop position or push remote engine stop button (if
equipped).
Electric shock will cause death or serious injury. Stay
away. 274-049

Safety - 14 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures
If an Electric Line is Damaged
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are on tractor, DO NOT MOVE. Remain on
tractor and take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
• Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred. Instruct them to leave the area and contact
utility.
• Raise attachments and drive from immediate area.
• Contact utility company to shut off power.
• Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off tractor, DO NOT TOUCH TRACTOR.
Take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
• LEAVE AREA. The ground surface may be electrified, so take small steps with feet close together to
reduce the hazard of being shocked from one foot to the other. For more information, contact your
Ditch Witch®dealer.
• Contact utility company to shut off power.
• Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.

RT125 Operator’s Manual Safety - 15
Emergency Procedures
If a Gas Line is Damaged
If you suspect a gas line has been damaged, take the following actions. The orders and degree of action
will depend on the situation.
• Immediately shut off engine(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
• Remove any ignition source(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
• Warn others that a gas line has been cut and that they should leave the area.
• Leave jobsite as quickly as possible.
• Immediately call your local emergency phone number and utility company.
• If jobsite is along street, stop traffic from driving near jobsite.
• Do not return to jobsite until given permission by emergency personnel and utility company.
Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause
burns. No smoking, no flame, no spark. 275-419 (2P)
Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
Follow directions carefully.

Safety - 16 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures
If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged
Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable. Vision damage can occur. Contact utility
company.
If Machine Catches on Fire
Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the following actions. The order and degree of
action will depend on the situation.
• Immediately move battery disconnect switch (if equipped and accessible) to disconnect position.
• If fire is small and fire extinguisher is available, attempt to extinguish fire.
• If fire cannot be extinguished, leave area as quickly as possible and contact emergency personnel.

RT125 Operator’s Manual Safety - 17
Safety Alert Classifications
Safety Alert Classifications
These classifications and the icons defined on the following pages work together to alert you to situations
which could be harmful to you, jobsite bystanders or your equipment. When you see these words and
icons in the book or on the machine, carefully read and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT
STAKE.
Watch for the three safety alert levels: DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION. Learn what each level
means.
indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This
signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations.
indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
Watch for two other words: NOTICE and IMPORTANT.
NOTICE indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related (e.g., messages relating to
property damage).
IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job easier in some way.

Safety - 18 RT125 Operator’s Manual
Machine Safety Alerts
Machine Safety Alerts
1
Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool
or wear gloves. 275-355 (2-P), 273-423 (2-P)
2
Rollover could kill or crush. Wear seat belt.
275-303
3
Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and
know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475
4
Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious
injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain
proper safety equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P); 700-133

RT125 Operator’s Manual Safety - 19
Machine Safety Alerts
5
Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.
274-318
6
Fall possible. Riders can fall from machine and be
injured or killed. Single operator only. 275-185
7
Fire or explosion possible. Do not use starter fluid.
273-459 (2P), 274-206 (2P), 700-206 (2P)