FarmTek FodderPro 3.0 User manual

1
Revision date: 09.21.18
©2018 FarmTek®
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
is prohibited without permission. *Actual system may differ slightly from what is shown.
FodderPro 3.0 Commercial
Feed Systems–113542
"...grow your own nutrient-rich fodder..."
psi
0
40
20
60
80
100

2113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
READ THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Thank you for purchasing the FodderPro 3.0 Commercial Feed Module. When properly assembled and maintained, this system will provide years of reliable
service. This guide includes information needed to safely assemble and maintain the system. Read these instructions before you begin.
Important Information
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE
This manual describes how to assemble the
113542 FodderPro 3.0 system. The steps outlining
the assembly process are as follows:
1. Unpack the contents of the shipment and
place where you can easily inventory the
parts. Refer to the Bill of Materials/Spec
Sheets.
2. Verify that all parts listed on the Bill of
Materials/Spec Sheets are present. If anything
is missing or you have questions, consult
the Pictorial Parts Guide and all diagrams for
clarification, or contact Customer Service.
3. Read and understand these instructions and
all additional documentation included with the
shipment before you begin.
4. Gather the required tools.
5. For best results, assemble the components
in the order they are presented in these
instructions.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
• Wear eye protection.
• Wear gloves when handling metal tubes.
• Use a portable GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter) when working with electric power
tools and cords.
ELECTRICAL WARNING!
Fodder frame is metal and will conduct
electricity! Exercise caution if working around
or on the frame with electric power tools. Use
cordless, battery-power tools.
CONSULT THE SERVICES OF A QUALIFIED
ELECTRICAL TECHNICIAN WHEN
INSTALLING TIMERS, ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING,
OR OTHER ELECTRICALLY POWERED
ACCESSORIES.
OPEN SYSTEM
The FodderPro 3.0 Commercial Feed System
is an open system; the water is not recycled
for use in the fodder system. The open system
requires a water source and a drain, or waste
water reservoir to accept the unused water.
This water can be recycled for use in other
applications such as watering other plants.
However, to promote healthy fodder growth,
it is not recommended for reuse in the fodder
system.
IMPORTANT: Have the water tested before
feeding it to any livestock.
CAUTION!
DO NOT CLIMB ON FRAME!
TO PREVENT INJURY AND POSSIBLE
DAMAGE TO THE FODDER SYSTEM AND
RELATED COMPONENTS, NEVER CLIMB
ON THE ASSEMBLED OR PARTIALLY
ASSEMBLED FRAME.
NEVER USE THE FRAME ENDS AS A
LADDER TO REACH THE UPPER LEVEL OF
THE FODDER FRAME!
ATTENTION: CONSULT ALL DIAGRAMS AND
THOSE NEAR THE BACK OF THIS GUIDE
TO IDENTIFY CRITICAL DIMENSIONS, PART
NUMBERS, AND PART LOCATIONS FOR YOUR
COMMERCIAL FODDER SYSTEM.
REQUIRED TOOLS
The following list identifies the main tools needed to
assemble the fodder system. Additional tools and
supports may be needed.
• Tape measure and marker
• Variable speed drill to drive Tek screws
• Levels: 2' and 4'
• Wrench set or ratchet with 1/2" socket to
assemble frame
• 3/16" hex (Allen) wrench—preferably one that
can be used in a socket to operate with a drill.
• Adjustable pliers and small hammer
• Ladder or work platform to work at the height of
the fodder system frame.

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
Important Information
PICTORIAL GUIDE
The following graphics and photos will help identify the different parts of the fodder
system. (Some parts may not be shown.)
FAH337B FAME51BFALB34B FAG338B 112772
WR1220 111003Z120
112838
Tek Screw
100442 Nut
Setter
WF2350 WF2372
WF2392
Bushings
113100
WG3840
112770 FAPA15 106807
112477
111127 111128 111129
WF1330 108503
AS2162
WR4067
WR1095 109071
Timer
110406* 110414*
*These extra components are included in
the event that damage occurs to the supply
manifolds during installation or use. To install,
remove the original damaged part and install
the new components. See procedure later in
this guide.
WF6990 PVC Cement and
113372 Purple Primer
PVC PRIMER & PVC CEMENT
Follow all directions printed
on pvc primer and cement
containers. Purple color of
primer does not fade! Use
caution during application
to reduce spills and over
application at joints.
Prime all joints before
assembly.

4113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
Connecting to a Main Water Supply
The FodderPro 3.0 Commercial Feed System includes all the components to assemble the main fodder frame, channels, drain gutters, downspout, drain trough, and supply
manifold. Optional components are noted in the diagram below. Contact your sales representative for additional information and to purchase additional components.
ATTENTION: Enlist the services of an electrician and plumber during assembly and when attaching the main water supply line to the fodder system. The diagram below
shows the basic items needed to supply and control the water to the fodder system. All plumbing and wiring to be completed according to established local codes by a
professional plumber and electrician.
Components and materials needed to connect fodder system to main water supply and to connect timer to solenoid are not included. Additional purchase required.
TIMER: Set the timer to as needed to provide water to the system at desired intervals.
WATER PRESSURE: To ensure proper operation of drippers and to prevent fitting leaks, the following pressure range is required: 20 psi (minimum) to 45 psi (maximum).
Pressures lower than the minimum will not allow drippers to function. Pressures greater than the maximum may damage components and cause fittings to leak.
00:05 2006
7:24
psi
0
40
20
60
80
100
Solenoid/Regulator
(included)
Pressure Gauge (included)
Main Water Supply
Water Meter (optional)
Electrical Conduit
(not included)
Timer
Water Supply Pipe
(not included)

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
General Frame Assembly Information
1LOCATE AND SEPARATE FRAME COMPONENTS
Your 113542 Fodder Pro 3.0 commercial
fodder system consists of two (2) frame
sections (or pods): one (1) pod two (2) trays
wide; one (1) pod five (5) trays wide. Both
pods have seven (7) evenly spaced levels.
Consult the diagrams on the following
pages to better understand the basic layout
before you begin. Follow these basic steps
to assemble and set the frame for each
fodder section.
ATTENTION: A solid, level surface such as
concrete capable of supporting the frame
and fodder is required. If a full concrete
slab is not part of the building, install
concrete blocks or pavers, or pour small
concrete slabs level with the finished grade
to support the frame tubes.
1. Review the diagrams to determine the
overall footprint of this system and
prepare the site for frame assembly.
See diagram.
2. Begin by separating the steel frame
tubes according to part number and
length. Each tube has a specific
position on the frame.
3. Next, review the diagrams on the
following pages to further divide the
tubes by selecting those to construct
the 14-tray pod. The remainder of the
tubes are used for the 35-tray pod.
psi
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40
20
60
80
100
Fodder Tray
On-Floor Drain
Channel
35-Tray Pod
14-Tray Pod
Supply
Manifold
Downspout
with elbow.
Frame
Levelers
Gutter at
each level.
2 Cable
Assemblies
per Pod

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6113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
1GATHER THE 14-TRAY FRAME COMPONENTS
Follow the basic steps noted below to assemble the 14-tray pod frame.
ATTENTION: A solid, level surface such as concrete capable of supporting the frame and fodder is required. If a full concrete slab is not part of the
building, install concrete blocks or pavers, or pour small concrete slabs level with the finished grade to support the frame tubes.
Required parts for this pod:
• (2) FD15VMGL08575S1 (Back Vertical Tube)
• (2) FD15VMGL07225S2 (Front Vertical Tube)
• (14) FD15LMGL06900S1 (Front-to-Back Side Tube)
• (15) FD15HMGL03200S1 (Horizontal Tube—Ends)
• (14) FD15CMGL02550S1 (Horizontal Tube—Mid)
• 112772 (5/16" x 3") Flathead Bolt
• FAG338 (5/16" x 3") Hex Cap Bolt
• FAME51B (5/16") Flat Washer
BACK
FRONT FD15CMGL02550S1
25-1/2"
FD15VMGL08575S1
85-3/4"
FD15LMGL06900S1
69"
FD15HMGL03200S1
32"
FD15HMGL03200S1
32"
FD15VMGL07225S2
72-1/4"
Complete these steps:
1. Identify and collect the parts needed to assemble the
14-tray pod frame. See diagram to the right.
2. Install the levelers at the bottom of each vertical
frame tube. (See Procedure 2.)
3. Assemble the front (drain end) and back (supply
end) main frames. (See Procedure 2.)
4. Assemble the center frame sections that connect the
end frames. (See Procedure 3.)
5. Attach the diagonal cable assemblies to one side of
the frame. (See Procedure 4.)
6. Set the assembled frame in position and level and
plumb the frame. (See Procedure 5.)
7. Continue with Procedure 6.
General Frame Assembly Information

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
1GATHER THE 35-TRAY FRAME COMPONENTS
Follow the basic steps noted below to assemble the 35-tray pod frame.
ATTENTION: A solid, level surface such as concrete capable of supporting the frame and fodder is required. If a full concrete slab is not part of the
building, install concrete blocks or pavers, or pour small concrete slabs level with the finished grade to support the frame tubes.
Required parts for this pod:
• (2) FD15VMGL08575S1 (Back Vertical Tube)
• (2) FD15VMGL07225S2 (Front Vertical Tube)
• (14) FD15LMGL06900S1 (Front-to-Back Side Tube)
• (15) FD15HMGL08000S1 (Horizontal Tube—Ends)
• (14) FD15CMGL07350S1 (Horizontal Tube—Mid)
• 112772 (5/16" x 3") Flathead Bolt
• FAG338 (5/16" x 3") Hex Cap Bolt
• FAME51B (5/16") Flat Washer
Complete these steps:
1. Identify and collect the parts needed to assemble the
35-tray pod frame. See diagram to the right.
2. Install the levelers at the bottom of each vertical
frame tube. (See Procedure 2.)
3. Assemble the front (drain end) and back (supply
end) main frames. (See Procedure 2.)
4. Assemble the center frame sections that connect the
end frames. (See Procedure 3.)
5. Attach the diagonal cable assemblies to one side of
the frame. (See Procedure 4.)
6. Set the assembled frame in position and level and
plumb the frame. (See Procedure 5.)
7. Continue with Procedure 6.
General Frame Assembly Information
BACK
FRONT
FD15VMGL08575S1
85-3/4"
FD15VMGL07225S2
72-1/4"
FD15LMGL06900S1
69"
FD15CMGL07350S1
73-1/2"
FD15HMGL08000S1
80"
FD15HMGL08000S1
80"

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8113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
2ASSEMBLE END FRAMES
ATTENTION: A solid, level surface such as concrete capable of supporting the frame and fodder is required. If a full concrete slab is not part of the
building, install concrete blocks or pavers, or pour small concrete slabs level with the finished grade to support the frame tubes. Assemble each
frame in the location where it will ultimately be positioned. Other than minor adjustments in position for leveling, moving the frames
after assembly is not recommended.
Assemble Main Frame—Ends
IMPORTANT: After assembling the frame sections as shown in Procedures
2-4, set the frame in position and complete Procedure 5 to level and plumb
the frame before assembling the next pod. Do not allow the frame to
stand without the cables installed and adjusted. Brace frame before
cable installation!
ATTENTION: The 14-tray pod is used in this example. Except for the main
frame components, the assembly of any pod frame is the same.
Complete these steps to install each 112477 insert:
1. Slide one 112477 insert into the bottom of a vertical
end frame tube. Tap gently with a small hammer if
needed to seat in place.
2. Secure using a 112838 Tek screw. Install screw
through frame tube and wall of the 112477
insert.
3. Adjust the FAH337B bolt so that it is fully turned
into the threaded plate of the insert. See photo to
the right.
CAUTION: Frames are heavy! Assemble
the frame where it will be positioned in the
building. To prevent damage, injury, or both,
do not move an assembled frame!
112772
5/16" x 3" Flat
Head Bolt
During the frame assembly, position the vertical tubes
so the large diameter bolt hole is to the outside of the
frame tube. This provides a seat for the tapered head
of the 112772 bolt.
A
B
Front
B
Back
B
112722
112477
FAH337B
FALB34B
A
Bottom
of Frame
Tube
112477
Install large hole in
tube to the outside.
Install Tek screw on either side
of the center line to prevent
contact with adjusting bolt.
STEP 3

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
3
Assemble Main Frame—Center
CAUTION: Frames are heavy! Assemble the frame where
it will be positioned in the building. To prevent damage,
injury, or both, do not move an assembled frame!
ASSEMBLE CENTER FRAMES
Use the FAG338B (5/16" x 3") hex
bolt and FAME51B 5/16" flat washer to
assemble the center frame sections.
Tighten all connections.
Use the 112772 (5/16" x 3")
flat head bolt to attach the
end frames to the center
frames. Large hole in frame
tube should be visible
during frame assembly.
Tighten all connections.
IMPORTANT: After assembling the frame sections as shown in Procedures 2-4,
set the frame in position and complete Procedure 5 to level and plumb the frame
before assembling the next pod. Do not allow the frame to stand without the
cables installed and adjusted. Brace frame before cable installation.
CAUTION: Brace and hold
frame until all cables are
installed. Do not allow frame
to stand freely without cables
installed and adjusted.

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10 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
4INSTALL FRAME CABLES—FDCAB13L0703S1T
There are two (2) cable assemblies for each pod frame. Install these
assemblies on the same side of the frame.
Install Cables
WARNING! BRACE THE FRAME IN PLACE DURING CABLE INSTALLATION. HAVE AN ASSISTANT HOLD THE FRAME STEADY WHILE
INSTALLING THE CABLE BRACKETS. FAILING TO BRACE THE FRAME AND HAVE AN ASSISTANT HOLD IT STEADY DURING THIS
PROCEDURE MAY CAUSE THE FRAME TO COLLAPSE! DO NOT PROCEED WITH THIS STEP WITHOUT BRACING AND ASSISTANCE.
Complete these steps:
1. Attach the top 108503 brackets to the frame approximately 1" above the
top of the second level frame tube. Use a Tek screw and FAME51B flat
washer to secure each bracket to the center of the vertical frame tube.
1"
2. Take the first cable assembly, fully open the turnbuckle without
disassembling it, and hook it to one of the installed 108503 brackets.
3. Take an AS2162 shackle, remove the pin, and slide the shackle over the free
end of the finished cable.
4. Secure a 108503 bracket to the shackle by reinstalling and tightening the
shackle pin.
108503
WF2162
Cable Assembly
108503
AS2162
112838
Tek Screw
FAME51B
Top Level
1"
Position turnbuckles at the top.
FDCAB13L0703S1T

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
4INSTALL CABLES—FDCAB13L0703S1T (continued)
5. With assistance, place the 108503 bracket against the frame tube and mark the hole position using a marker.
NOTE: Adjust the position of the bracket on the frame leg to allow the cable to sag an inch or so. This ensures sufficient adjustment when it is time to
plumb the vertical frame tubes.
Install Cables
6. Attach the 108503 bracket with cable assembly to the frame tube using a 112838 Tek screw and FAME51B washer. Tek screw should be snug. Do not
overtighten! Doing so will strip the threads from the hole.
7. Repeat these steps to install the remaining cable assembly for the first pod frame.
8. After installing both cable assemblies, evenly tighten each turnbuckle to remove cable slack. If you run out of turnbuckle adjustment and slack remains,
loosen the turnbuckle and lower the 108503 bracket on the frame. Retighten to remove slack.
9. With assistance, carefully adjust the frame to position it on the site where the entire fodder system will be assembled. Review the diagrams near the end of
this guide for details.
10. Continue with the next procedure.
Step 5
Move bracket
and cable
assembly up or
down to achieve
the best fit.
Mark hole position and secure
using a 112838 Tek screw
and FAME51B flat washer.

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12 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
Plumb and Level Each Frame Pod
5PLUMB AND LEVEL EACH FRAME POD
Each frame pod slopes 3" from back-to-front to ensure proper water flow, distribution, and drainage. If the finished grade is sloped in any direction,
use the adjustable levelers to maintain the 3" slope and to level the ends. DO NOT EXCEED THE 3" SLOPE.
a. Align a string or straight edge with the top of a frame tube at the supply or high end of the frame (Diagram B).
b. Move to drain or low end and tie string to frame above the frame tube. Hang a line level on the string to ensure that the string line is level.
c. Measure from string to the frame tube. Dimension to be 3". Adjust frame levelers (if needed) to achieve the 3" slope.
Review the diagrams on this page and complete these steps:
1. Place a level along each vertical support on the cable side of the frame and tighten or loosen the cable turnbuckles as needed to plumb the corner
supports. Tighten turnbuckles evenly. See diagram A. When adjusted correctly, all vertical frame tubes are plumb.
2. Check the slope from back to front. See diagram B. Adjust levelers as needed (Steps a-c). Lock carriage bolts in place using the locknut on each bolt.
DIAGRAM A
STEP 1
Level
Level
STEP 2
Slope to
be 3" from
supply end
to drain end.
Supply/High
End
Low/Drain
End
Line Level
DIAGRAM B
Top of Tube

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
Plumb and Level Each Frame Pod
5
3. At the end walls, adjust the levelers to level the frame side-to-side. Set a level on the end frame cross member and adjust. See diagram C.
PLUMB AND LEVEL EACH FRAME POD—continued
4. Repeat Step 2 to recheck the back-to-front slope.
5. Verify that all levelers are locked in place. For improved stability, avoid fully extending the levelers.
6. Assemble and set the next pod in position and repeat this procedure (Procedure 5).
7. After assembling pod frames, set in place, leveled, and plumbed, install the 112770 finishing plug in the top of each vertical frame tube.
8. Continue with the installation of the gutters and downspout.
DIAGRAM C
Lock Nut
STEP 3
Install one 112770 finishing cap in the top of each vertical
frame tube. Gently tap into tube if needed.
112770

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14 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
Install Gutters
6INSTALL GUTTERS
Gutters are installed at the drain/low side of each frame pod. There are two (2) different gutter types for this fodder
system. Each has a specific position on the frame. Each is designed to drain toward the downspout when installed
correctly. Diagram below shows the downspout location and identifies where to install each gutter type.
Required parts:
• FGS01R03125F Gutter (Pod A)
• FGS01L07925F Gutter (Pod B)
• 112838 #10 x 1" Tek Screws
• 100442 Tek Screw Driver
psi
0
40
20
60
80
100
Supply Manifold Side
of Fodder System
Drain Side of Fodder System
Downspout
A
B
Gutter
Gutter
Downspout w/ Drain Elbows
ATTENTION: Install gutters before
installing the downspout.

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
6
Install Gutters
Complete these steps:
1. Using the diagram on the previous page, pick the gutter section
and set it in place on the pod frame.
2. Ensure that the gutter slopes toward the downspout location
shown on the diagram.
ATTENTION: Downspout is installed after all gutters are
installed.
3. Set all trays in place on the frame where gutter was installed.
4. Mark two (2) locations between trays at each end of the gutter.
ATTENTION: For the shorter, 2-tray gutters, install one (1)
screw between the two trays. For all other gutters, position all
fasteners between the two trays at each end regardless of how
many trays are on each pod level.
5. Remove the trays and drive a 112838 Tek screw through the
gutter and into the frame tube at the locations chosen in Step 4.
6. Repeat this procedure to install all remaining gutters.
7. Continue with the installation of the downspouts.
INSTALL GUTTERS—continued
STEP 5
STEP 4
STEP 6
STEP 3
Set trays on frame to judge where to install
fasteners to secure gutter to frame.
Slide trays back from gutter to allow for the
installation of the 112838 fasteners.
Center fastener location so screw head does
not contact any part of any tray.
Photo shows trays in position with fastener
installed to secure gutter.
Screw Locaton
Photo shows installed gutter. Dashed arrow
indicates direction of water flow.
STEP 2 Gutter end
is tight to
frame tube.
STEP 1
Photo shows crimped or high end of gutter,
which is opposite the drain end.

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16 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
7
Install Downspout
INSTALL DOWNSPOUT
Attach downspout to the vertical frame members at the low end of the installed gutters in the location noted in the
diagram below. Photo shows an installed downspout.
Required parts:
• 112838 #10 x 1" Tek Screws
• 100442 Tek Screw Driver
• FAPA15 U-Clamp
• FDSBRKT Downspout Bracket
• FDS01L069 Downspout
Circles show location of the u-clamps for the
downspout. When installed correctly, downspout
elbows rest on the u-clamps for support. See
procedure on next page to install downspout.
FAPA15
112838
Tek Screw
psi
0
40
20
60
80
100
Supply Manifold Side
of Fodder System
Drain Side of Fodder System
Downspout

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
7
Install Downspout
INSTALL DOWNSPOUT—continued
Complete these steps:
1. Place downspout in position against frame. Slide one
FAPA15 u-clamp around downspout at second level from top.
STEP 2
STEP 1
ATTENTION: An assistant is needed for this step. Some
gutters may not contact the drain elbows. A drip edge at
drain end of each gutter helps guide water into drain elbows.
2. On the frame tube, mark the center of each hole using
u-clamp as a guide.
NOTE: For best results and support, verify that u-clamp is
snug to the underside of drain elbows as shown.
3. Hold downspout. Mark lower bracket
location at second level from bottom.
4. Place FDSBRKT bracket against frame
and align bolt holes with marks.
6. Using 100442 driver, install a 112838
Tek screw in center hole of bracket.
5. Verify that bracket position allows for
installation of fasteners in each hole.
7. Repeat to attach remaining FDSBRKT
flat bracket.
NOTE: If frame blocks outer hole,
use a clamp to squeeze frame tubes
together when installing downspout.
8. After installing the upper and lower
brackets, have an assistant hold the
downspout in position against the
frame and FDSBRKT flat brackets.
Outer holes must
clear frame tube for
fastener installation.

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18 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
7
Install Downspout
INSTALL DOWNSPOUT—continued
9. Slide a u-clamp into position over downspout and align
clamp holes with holes in bracket.
10. Take the 112838 Tek screws and attach the u-clamp to
the flat bracket. Do not overtighten screws. Doing so can
damage the u-clamp.
11. Repeat step to install remaining u-clamp for the downspout.
NOTE: In most instances,
downspout elbows (seen in
left photo) are tight to the
underside of the gutters. Slight
variations may occur during
the manufacturing process.
In such cases, some elbows
may remain slightly below the
gutter while others on the same
downspout touch the gutter
when downspout is installed.
The drip edge on each gutter
compensates for these
variations.

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Revision date: 09.21.18 113542
Assembly and Attach Supply Manifold
8ASSEMBLE AND ATTACH SUPPLY MANIFOLD
psi
0
40
20
60
80
100
Manifold
14
Trays
35
Trays
The pages that follow describe how to assemble and install the manifold. Manifold supplies water to all trays. The standard 113542 system is designed to
harvest 7 trays each day. Continue with the procedures that follow to assemble and attach the supply manifold to the frame.
ATTENTION: During installation, first attach manifold assembly to frame. Position the 106807 pipe hangers as shown to ensure they do not interfere with
manifold fittings. Identify horizontal manifold branch tube positions and install as noted. Install wire hangers between trays. In no instance should a tray rest
on a wire hanger.
The 113542 Fodder Pro 3.0 system includes one supply manifold to deliver water to the fodder trays. Review the diagram below and those near the end of this
guide to better understand manifold locations before you begin manifold assembly.

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20 113542 Revision date: 09.21.18
8a ASSEMBLE GAUGE AND REGULATOR
WR1095
Assemble Gauge and Regulator
WF2350
WF1330
WF2392
WR1220
WG3840
WF2372
WR4067
DIAGRAM A
IMPORTANT: Install the WR1220 solenoid so the arrow points in
the direction the water flows.
See Procedure 11 to adjust and set the water pressure.
Complete this procedure to assemble the gauge and regulator portion of the supply manifold. Use Diagram A to complete the assembly.
Wrap all threaded fittings (4-5 times) with WR1095 tape before assembly. Wrap threads in a direction the will not allow the tape to unwind
when fittings are assembled.