Ditch Witch FX30 User manual

FX30/FXT30
Tier 4
Operator’s
Manual
053-2632
Original Instruction
Issue 4.1

FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual Overview - 1
Overview
Chapter Contents
Serial Number Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Equipment Modification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
FX30 Unit Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
• 500 gallon tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
• 800 gallon tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
FXT30 Unit Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
• 500 gallon tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
• 800 gallon tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . 7
RF Exposure Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Operator Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
• Bulleted Lists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
• Numbered Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Overview - 2 FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual
Serial Number Location
Serial Number Location
Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. FX30 serial number is located as shown.
Intended Use
The FX30 is a self-contained vacuum excavation unit capable of vacuuming a wide variety of non-
hazardous, non-flammable liquid and solid debris. The FXT30 is a truck-mounted version of the FX30
vacuum excavation unit. They are designed to perform efficient soft excavation, including exposing utilities
for visual verification and potholing. The optional reverse flow system allows for spoils transfer to another
tank. The optional air system on the FXT30 can operate auxiliary pneumatic tools on low (100 psi/689 kPa)
setting.
The FX30 and FXT30 are intended for operation in ambient temperatures from 0° to 115°F (-18° to 46°C).
Use in any other way is considered contrary to the intended use.
The FX30 and FXT30 should be operated, serviced, and repaired only by persons familiar with its
particular characteristics and acquainted with the relevant safety procedures.
Date of manufacture
Date of purchase
FX30 serial number (shown)
Engine serial number
Blower serial number
Water pump serial number
Trailer serial number
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FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual Overview - 3
Equipment Modification
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.
FX30 Unit Components
500-Gal (1893-L) Tank
1. Inlet valve
2. Primary shut-off valve
3. Vacuum tank
4. Water tank
5. Operator’s station
6. Power pack
7. Hose reel
8. Potholing tools
9. Tool storage
10. Antifreeze tank
11. Vacuum filter
12. Cyclone filter
13. Drain/Outlet valve

Overview - 4 FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual
FX30 Unit Components
800-Gal (3028-L) Tank
1. Inlet valve
2. Vacuum tank
3. Primary shutoff valve
4. Water tank
5. Operator’s station
6. Power pack
7. Hose reel
8. Potholing tools
9. Tool storage
10. Antifreeze tank
11. Vacuum filter
12. Cyclonic filter
13. Drain/Outlet valve

FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual Overview - 5
FXT30 Unit Components
FXT30 Unit Components
500-Gal (1893-L) Tank
1. Inlet valve
2. Primary shut-off valve
3. Vacuum tank
4. Water tank
5. Operator’s station
6. Power pack
7. Potholing tools
8. Hose reel
9. Antifreeze tank
10. Vacuum filter
11. Cyclone filter
12. Drain/Outlet valve

Overview - 6 FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual
FXT30 Unit Components
800-Gal (3028-L) Tank
1. Inlet valve
2. Vacuum tank
3. Primary shut-off valve
4. Water tank
5. Operator’s station
6. Power pack
7. Potholing tools
8. Hose reel
9. Antifreeze tank
10. Vacuum filter
11. Cyclone filter
12. Drain/Outlet valve

FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual Overview - 7
FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter
FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter
U.S.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
Contains FCC ID: LW9-ERGOF-2G4 & LW9-MFS-RX-2G4.
Canada
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est
autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Contient IC: 2119B-ERGOF & 2119B-MFSRX
RF Exposure Statement
In order to comply with RF exposure requirements during normal operation, this device must be held in front of the body horizontally.
The antenna must be vertical in line with the body with at least 4” (100 mm) separation distance from the body.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Health Canada’s Safety Code Section 6.

Overview - 8 FX30/FXT30 Tier 4 Operator’s Manual
Operator Orientation
Operator Orientation
Right and left sides of machine are determined by
facing towing vehicle.
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
11
22
33
44
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FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Foreword - 9
Reporting Safety Defects
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.
Reporting Safety Defects
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you
should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to
notifying the Product Safety Coordinator at The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists
in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become
involved in any individual problems between you, your Ditch Witch dealer, or The Charles Machine Works,
Inc.
To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-
424-9153), go to http://www.safercar.gov, or write to:
Administrator
NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E.
Washington, DC 20590
You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.

Foreword - 10 FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual
FX30/FXT30 with Tier 4 Engine
Operator’s Manual
This manual covers the following models: FX30 Tier 4, FXT30 Tier 4.
Issue number 4.1/OM-12/17
Part number 053-2632
Copyright 2013, 2014, 2015, 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.

FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Contents - 11
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
9
Safety
machine safety alerts and emergency procedures
13
Controls
machine controls, gauges, and indicators and how to use them
31
Operation Overview
an overview for completing a job with this machine: planning, setting up, vacuuming,
potholing, and restoring the jobsite; with cross references to detailed procedures
51
Prepare
procedures for inspecting and classifying the jobsite, and preparing the jobsite for
work
55
Transport
procedures for lifting and hauling
61
Vacuum and Pothole
procedures for removing debris and potholing utility locations
65
Complete the Job
procedures for restoring the jobsite and rinsing and storing equipment
83
Service
service intervals and instructions for this machine including lubrication, replacement
of wear items, and basic maintenance
87
Specifications
machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid
capacities
133
Support
the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty
consideration and training
151
Service Record
a record of major service performed on the machine
155

Contents - 12 FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual
Appendix
additional information about your equipment
157

FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Safety - 13
Safety
Chapter Contents
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
California Proposition 65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
• Electric Strike Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
• If an Electric Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
• If a Gas Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
• If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
• If Machine Catches on Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Safety Alert Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Machine Safety Alerts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Safety - 14 FX30/FXT30 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

FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Safety - 15
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 - 16 FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures
If an Electric Line is Damaged
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are on truck or trailer, DO NOT MOVE.
Remain on truck or trailer and take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend on the
situation.
• Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred. Instruct them to leave the area and contact
utility.
• Do not allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.
• Do not allow anyone to touch equipment.
If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off truck or trailer, DO NOT TOUCH
EQUIPMENT. Take the following actions. The order and degree of action will depend on the situation.
• LEAVE AREA. The ground surface may be electrified so take small shuffle steps with feet close
together to reduce the hazard of being shocked from one foot to the other.
• Contact utility company to shut off power.
• Do not return to area or allow anyone into area until given permission by utility company.

FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Safety - 17
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 - 18 FX30/FXT30 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.

FX30/FXT30 Operator’s Manual Safety - 19
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.