Dawson MULCH MATE DS1000 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Parts Manual
Rev 02 4/19/19

Dawson Manufacturing LLC
899 Airport Park Rd #E
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
888-77MULCH
www.MulchMateUSA.com
Product and Contact Information
Please contact your authorized Mulch Mate dealer for information and service on
your product. Always provide your product model and serial number listed below.
Dealer Name: _______________________________
Dealer Address: _______________________________
_______________________________
Dealer Phone: _______________________________
Date Purchased: ___________________
Model Number: ___________________
Serial Number: ___________________
It is highly recommended for anyone operating the machine to watch the
online training video and take the certification exam
https://mulchmateusa.com/video-training

Table of Contents
Introduction
Product Description --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 3
Read Manual Before Use -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 3
Using Your Manual ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 3
Parts Location ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 3
Safety
Safety Decals ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 5
General Safety Procedures ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 6
Training Requirements ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 6
Personal Protective Equipment Requirements ----------------------------------------------------------- page 6
Operation Safety ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ page 6
Preventing Accidents ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ page 7
Roadway Safety ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 8
Maintenance Safety -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 8
Operations
Quick Safety Check --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 9
Powering Unit On ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 9
Pull Out Tarp for Loading ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 10
Covering Load for Transporting ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 10
If Using Optional Wheel Barrow Mounts ------------------------------------------------------------------ page 10
Preparing for Transport ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 10
Using Unit on Site ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 11
Opening Unit to Load Debris -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 11
Closing Unit Before Transport ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 12
Preparing Unit Before Raising Dump Body --------------------------------------------------------------- page 12
Securing Unit for Transport ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 12
Maintenance
Cleaning and General Maintenance ------------------------------------------------------------------------ page 13
Warranty ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- page 13

Introduction
Dawson Manufacturing LLC is pleased to provide you with your new Mulch
Mate DS1000 mulch delivery system. We hope you enjoy many years of
great service and productivity with this fine product.
Product Description
The Mulch Mate DS1000 is the first product you can attach to the landscape body truck you already own. With
our Patented design you can fill your truck with mulch and remove it directly into a wheelbarrow with the use
of a simple joystick, eliminating the back-breaking job of shoveling for hours. The unique tarp system pulls
mulch into the unit where it gets conditioned by the augers before being transported by the cross conveyor to
wheelbarrows, containers, or straight onto the ground. It also allows you to separate new clean mulch from any
debris that you need to reload in your truck for disposal. Another unique design of the DS1000 is the dual
pivoting hinge which allows you to swing the unit around to the side of your truck, lock it in place, then raise
your dump bed to empty the contents. The hinge also allows you to use and load your truck as you normally
would without having to remove the Mulch Mate unit.
**Read the Operations Manual Completely Before Use**
Using Your Manual
This manual has been created to help you gain the important knowledge of what is needed to safely operate,
maintain and service your new equipment. It is divided into sections for convenient reference of the
appropriate information.
You must read and understand the operator’s manual before operating your new equipment. Understanding
the operator’s manual will help you, as well as others, avoid personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.
The operator’s manual should stay with the equipment at all times even when sold.
The information in this manual provides the operator with the safest procedures to operate the equipment
while getting the maximum benefits out of your unit. Failure to follow the safety instructions is this manual may
result in personal injury and/or damage to your equipment.

Parts Location
1. Tarp Roller 2. Auger Rollers 3. Batteries
4. Conveyor Belt 5. Tarp Motor 6. Tarp Gear Set
7. Power Distribution Box 8. Conveyor Motor 9. Hinge
10. Auger Gear Box 11. Control Panel 12. Take Up Roller
Safety
Safety Decals
Throughout the manual you will encounter special messages and symbols that will identify potential safety
concerns to help you as well as others avoid personal injury and/or damage to your equipment.
There are three signal words that describe the level of safety concern. Danger, Warning and Caution. Safety
should always be the #1 priority when working on or operating any equipment. Accidents are more likely to
occur when proper operating procedures are not followed, or inexperienced operators are involved.

Signal Word Definitions
Keep all safety decals clean and legible at all times. Remove dirt, grease and debris from safety decals and
instructional labels. If any decals become damaged, faded, illegible or missing, contact your Mulch Mate dealer
promptly for replacements. These safety decals and labels are there to help warn and protect you and others.
Please take these warnings seriously and refer to the operator’s manual often to stay familiar with all safety
information.
It is highly recommended for anyone operating the machine to watch the
online training video and take the certification exam
https://mulchmateusa.com/video-training

Safety
General Safety Procedures
Training Requirements
●The owner of this machine is solely responsible for properly training the operators.
●The owner/operator is solely responsible for the operations of this machine and prevention of
accidents or injury occurring to him/herself, other people or property.
●Do not allow operation or service of this unit by children or untrained personnel. Local laws or
regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
●Before operating this machine, read the operator’s manual and understand it’s contents.
●Read and understand all safety information.
●Learn and understand the use of all controls.
●Know the location and use of the Emergency Stop Button.
●Never stand in a location where the machine has a possibility of falling or pinching the operator or
other people.
Personal Protective Equipment Requirements
It is the responsibility of the owner to be sure that the operators use the proper personal protective
Equipment while operating the machine. Required personal protective equipment includes, but
is not limited to the following list.
●Safety glasses while operating the machine to prevent eye injury.
●Closed toe shoes.
●Long pants.
●When operating in dusty conditions, it is recommended that a respirator should be worn.
Operation Safety
●Inspect machine before operation. Repair or replace any damaged, worn or missing parts. Be sure
guards and shields are in proper working condition and are secured in place. Make any necessary
adjustments before operating the machine.
●Some pictures in this manual may show shields or covers opened or removed in order to clearly
illustrate some instructions. Under no circumstance should the machine be operated without these
devices in place.
●Alterations or modifications to this machine can reduce safety and could cause damage to the
machine and/or injury to the operator and others. Do not alter any safety devices or operate with
shields or covers removed.
●Before each use, verify that all controls function properly and inspect all safety devices. Do not
operate if controls or safety devices are not in proper working order.
●Observe and follow all safety decals.
●Ensure machine latches and locks are all in place and functioning correctly.

Safety
General Safety Procedures (cont)
Operation Safety (cont.)
●Ensure all bystanders are clear of the machine whenever unlatching the machine or preparing the
unit for dumping. Never dump the truck without making sure all latches, locks, and/or safety chains
are in place.
●Always be alert to what is happening around you, but do not lose focus on the task you are
performing. Watch the functions of the machine whenever the machine is on and operating.
●Stop the machine at any sign of equipment failure. An unusual noise can be a warning of equipment
overload or failure, or a sign that maintenance or repair is required. Make all necessary repairs
before operating machine again.
●Do not leave machine in the “ON” position when unattended.
●Only operate in well-lit conditions.
●Do not operate when there is a risk of lightning.
●Never discharge material (i.e. mulch) against a wall or obstruction.
●To reduce fire hazard, keep the battery area clean of debris and material. Clean battery area
regularly.
Preventing Accidents
●Never unlatch machine from truck on unlevel ground.
●Ensure Operator and bystanders are clear of the machine before unlatching the locking devices.
●When loading material ensure workers in the truck body are clear of any moving parts before
operating the machine.
●When using the remote-control devices, ensure all workers and bystanders are completely clear of
any moving parts of the machine. Make sure remote-control devices are turned off and stowed away
when not in use.
●NEVER run the machine when people are standing in the truck.
●NEVER put hands, tools, or any debris of any kind in the machine when operating (excluding tools in
tool basket).
●NEVER enter/crawl into the body of the machine for any reason.
●Keep hands, fingers, hair, jewelry, and loose clothes always from any moving parts.
●When unlatching machine to dump, ensure area around the machine is clear and stays clear at all
times.
●When swinging machine from one position to another, always hold onto the machine so that it will
never swing out of your control because of wind or weight etc.
●***When latching the machine to dump, ensure all hinge locks/stops are in place/installed and
functioning properly as well as any back up safety latches/chains.***
●Ensure all body latches and locks are in place and working properly before moving vehicle.
●NEVER leave mulch or any material in the truck overnight.
●Do not operate this machine if you are under the influence of any substance that may impair your
judgement or are not in good physical health.

Safety
General Safety Procedures (cont.)
Roadway Safety
●Obey all state and local laws concerning operation on roadways.
●Place traffic safety cones around your vehicle in accordance with state and local laws.
●NEVER unlock or unlatch the machine if there is a possibility of the machine swinging into an area
where it could strike any people, vehicles or other property.
●Before driving your vehicle, always check lighting, directional signals and stop signals on the
machine. Repair or replace any non-functioning lights before driving vehicle.
●Always pay attention while driving to be sure no material is dropping from the machine.
Maintenance Safety
●Before performing any maintenance or repair on the machine, disconnect the 7 pin connector and
the power wires.
●Never enter the machine body while the unit is turned on or connected to the truck.
●When servicing this machine, ensure the power is turned off and the key is removed from the
keyswitch.
●Disconnect the battery leads from inside the machine and disconnect the truck wire connections
before performing any service on this unit.
●Disconnect the power and battery before servicing anything in the control panel or the power
distribution box.
Never leave material in the truck body or machine over-night
Always have control of the machine at all times when not latched and locked in
place to the truck.
Never unlatch or unlock the machine when not on level ground.
Always ensure machine is latched and locked in place before moving vehicle.
Always do walk around inspection before moving vehicle.
It is highly recommended for anyone operating the machine to watch the
online training video and take the certification exam
https://mulchmateusa.com/video-training

Operations
Quick Safety Checklist
●Always check all safety devices before driving vehicle or operating the machine.
●Ensure machine is latched and locked before driving vehicle.
●Ensure operators and bystanders are clear before operating the machine.
●Follow all safety decals and instructional stickers.
●When unlatching or locking the machine, ensure all areas around the machine are clear or people,
animals and/or obstructions of any kind.
●When unlatching or unlocking the machine, ensure you always keep total control of the machine to
prevent the unit from swinging away from you.
Powering the Unit On
●To power on the unit turn the key switch (clockwise) to the “ON”
position. One green light will turn on.
*If the Emergency Stop Switch is activated the center red light will
be on. Twist the E-Stop to deactivate.
●Turn the key switch to the right (clockwise) momentarily and release
to fully turn the system on. You will now have two green lights and the
system is ready to run.
Operating the Unit
●The joystick is used to operate the unit.
Press down (1) to run tarp and conveyor.
**Tarp is on a 2 sec on, 2 sec off delay so keep holding for tarp to
start pulling.**
Press up (2) to run conveyor only.
Press right (0) to run tarp out into the truck.
Press left (X) to run tarp in to unit.
●If at any time you need to stop the machine by using the Emergency Stop Switch, all functions of the
machine will stop. To re-start the unit you must release the Emergency Stop Switch by twisting it,
then turn the key switch to the run position and release.

Operations
Pulling Out Tarp/Loading Mulch
Tools Needed
-Wireless Remote or Second Person
-Tarp Crank Handle
●While standing inside the truck body, hook the Tarp Crank Handle through the grab
handle on the tarp. Turn wireless remote on with switch on the left side of the controller, and press
the” out” button while pulling the tarp from the machine using the Tarp Crank Handle. Pull out
enough tarp to extend the length of the truck bed and to go up and over the front wall of the truck
(more if going to cover load with same tarp). Otherwise
the tarp may be pulled out from underneath the mulch
when operating.
-Clean any loose material from under
the tarp before reloading.
-DO NOT OVERLOAD MATERIAL. No more than
10 yards of Mulch.
Covering Load for Transporting
●After loading the truck with material, you will need
to cover the load to transport.
●Pull the remaining tarp over the load toward the
machine and attach to the Upper Take Up Roller.
●Once attached to the upper take up roller, tighten the
ratchet mechanism with the Tarp Crank Handle to
remove slack from the tarp.
Preparing for Transport
●Before driving vehicle, ensure all latches and locks are correctly installed and operating correctly.
●Ensure all directional signal lights on the machine are operating correctly.
●Ensure your load is covered and slack has been removed from the tarp.
●Close chute exit tray and secure chute Door Cover.

Operations
Using Unit on Site
●Turn the power to the machine on. (Follow start up
procedures pg. 9)
●Roll up chute door cover and slide back the chute exit tray.
●Place wheel barrow under the exit chute.
●Press and hold the joystick in the “down” position. This will
run both the tarp and the conveyor at the same time. The
tarp is on a 2 second on/off delay so keep holding until
mulch starts to run through the machine. When the
wheelbarrow is halfway full, push joystick “up” to just run
the conveyor belt. This helps prevent the belt from
overloading with too much mulch.
●The power may be left on while running mulch, but care must be taken to ensure no unauthorized
persons have access to the machine when unattended.
●When refilling your wheelbarrow, just press the joystick to the “down” position to refill and Top Off.
●Occasionally you must clear the conveyor belt of built up mulch by pressing the joystick to the
“up” position. This will run the conveyor by itself clearing the belt of any built-up mulch.
Opening Unit to Load Debris
You may load debris behind the tarp, in the space between the tarp and the truck, after a partial load of mulch
has been dispensed. Or once the truck has been emptied of mulch, you may swing the machine away and
secure it the driver side of the truck. This will allow you to load debris back into your truck for removal.
●Press joystick to the up position to run only the conveyor motor to clear the conveyor belt.
●After all of the mulch has been emptied from the truck. Press
the joystick to the “left” position to run only the tarp motor to
roll up the remaining tarp.
●Make sure the area around the machine is clear, release the
hinge locks.
●It is recommended that swinging the unit should be a two
person operation.
●Release the passenger side latch lock, pull down on the handle
to release the machine.
●Always keep control of the machine when it is unlatched.
●Walk the unit around to the driver side of the truck and secure
the hinge locks and the secondary safety chain to ensure the
machine is properly locked in place. Be sure to secure the
safety chain in the hole in located at the upper left corner of the chute hole. DO NOT ATTACH TO THE
HANDLE.
●You may now load debris into your truck for transport.

Operations
Closing the Unit
After loading the truck with debris for transport.
●It is recommended that swinging the unit should always be a two person operation.
●After ensuring the area around the machine is clear, release the hinge locks.
●Remove the secondary safety chain.
●While keeping control of the machine, walk the unit back to the right and ensure that it latches into
the passenger-side body latches.
●Ensure the unit is latched correctly and secure the latch locking pin.
Preparing Unit to Raise Dump Bed
The machine can be opened and secured to the side of the truck bed to allow normal raising of the truck
bed to empty debris.
●It is recommended that swinging the unit should always be a two person operation.
●After ensuring the area around the machine is clear, release the hinge locks.
●Release the passenger-side latch lock, pull down on the handle to release the machine.
●Always keep control of the machine when it is unlatched.
●Walk the unit around to the driver side of the truck and secure the hinge locks and the secondary
safety chain to ensure the machine is properly locked in place.
●Once unit is secured to the side of the truck you may raise the dump bed as normal.
●Do not shake or move while the dump bed is in the raised position with the machine attached.
Securing Unit for Transport
●Close the unit as per the “Closing the Unit” section above.
●It is recommended that swinging the unit should always be a two person operation.
●Ensure all directional signal lights and markers are working correctly.
●Ensure the chute door cover and chute exit tray are closed and secured.
●If any material remains in the bed of the truck, ensure the load is covered as per any local laws.
It is highly recommended for anyone operating the machine to watch the
online training video and take the certification exam
https://mulchmateusa.com/video-training

Maintenance
Cleaning and General Maintenance
●Clean machine of all material daily after use.
●Ensure tarp is clean and rolled correctly daily after use.
●Clean and lube exit slide of debris after each use.
●Check battery condition and water level monthly.
●Inspect and tighten conveyor belt as needed.
●Inspect tarp roller bushings for ware annually.
●Inspect directional lighting daily.
●Clean and lube bearings monthly.
●Inspect auger rollers and all moving parts for wear monthly.
●Lube drive chain annually.
It is highly recommended for anyone operating the machine to watch the
online training video and take the certification exam
https://mulchmateusa.com/video-training
Warranty
LIMITED 1 YEAR MANUFACTURER PARTS WARRANTY: The manufacturer warrants the parts of this product to be free from
defects in workmanship and materials, under normal use and conditions, for a period of three (1) years for parts and one
(1) year for Parts and labor from the original invoice date. Shipping and handling fees are to be paid for by the customer.
The manufacturer agrees, at its option during the warranty period, to repair or replace any defective part or to furnish a
repaired or refurbished part of equal value in exchange without charge (except for a fee for shipping, handling, packing,
return postage, and insurance which will be incurred by the customer). Such repair or replacement is subject to
verification of the defect or malfunction and proof of purchase as confirmed by showing the model number and serial
number on original dated sales receipt.
WARRANTY LIMITATIONS
This warranty does not include: · Any condition resulting from other than ordinary use for which the product was
intended, such as use of materials not recommended or over loading of unit · Any condition resulting from incorrect or
inadequate maintenance or care · Damage resulting from misuse, abuse, negligence, accidents or shipping damage ·
Normal wear and tear · Tarp is not included
Product Liability Indemnification.Buyer will indemnify, defend and hold harmless Seller, each of its Affiliates, and each of
its and its Affiliates employees, officers, directors and agents (each, a Seller Indemnified Party) from and against any and all
liability, loss, damage, expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses) and cost (collectively, a Liability) that the
Seller Indemnified Party may be required to pay to one or more Third Parties resulting from or arising out of (a) personal injury
or death of any person as a result of use of any Product supplied or sold by Dawson MFG or its Affiliates or sublicensees or (b)
the conduct by Buyer or its Affiliates or licensees or sublicensees.