General SG24 User manual

OPERATOR MANUAL
Includes Safety, Service and Replacement Part Information
Model SG24
Series Surface Grinder
Form: GOM3259601
Version 1.2
Do not discard this manual. Before operation, read and
comprehend its contents. Keep it readily available for reference
during operation or when performing any service related
function. When ordering replacement parts, please supply the
following information: model number, serial number and part
number. For customer service assistance, telephone
800.533.0524, +507.451.5510. Our Customer Service Department
telefax number is 877.344.4375 (DIGGER 5), +507.451.5511.
There is no charge for customer service activities .
Internet address: http://www.generalequip.com.
E-Mail location: [email protected].
Copyright 2003, General Equipment Company.

Manufacturers of light construction
equipment
620 Alexander Drive SW • P.O. Box 334 • Owatonna, Minnesota 55060-0334 USA
Telephone: [phone] • International Telephone: [phone]
Telefax: +507.451.5511 • Sales/Customer Service Department Toll Free: 877.344.4375 (DIGGER 5)
http://www.generalequip.com • e-mail: [email protected]
Congratulations on your decision to purchase a General light construction product. From our
humble beginnings in 1955, it has been a continuing objective of General Equipment Company to
manufacture equipment that delivers uncompromising value, service life and investment return.
Because of this continuous commitment for excellence, many products bearing the General name
actually set the standards by which competitive products are judged.
When you purchased this product, you also gained access to a team of dedicated and
knowledgeable support personnel that stand willing and ready to provide field support
assistance. Our team of sales representatives and in house factory personnel are available to
ensure that each General product delivers the intended performance, value and investment return.
Our personnel can readily answer your concerns or questions regarding proper applications,
service requirements and warranty related problems.
General Equipment Company places great emphasis upon not only product performance, but also
on product safety. It is important to remember that this product will only be as safe as the operators
which utilize it. It just makes good, common sense to take the time to read and fully understand the
contents of this manual before attempting to utilize this product in service. If you ever do have any
questions or concerns about this product, please feel free to contact our Customer Service
Department at the telephone numbers listed below for assistance.
If there is anything that I can do to assist your efforts when utilizing this product, please do not
hesitate to contact me. For assistance after normal business hours, telephone me at 507.451.9409
or 507.363.1033. If I am not immediately available, I will attempt to return your call as soon as
possible.
Sincerely,
GENERAL EQUIPMENT COMPANY
Dennis Von Ruden
President

DESCRIPTION PAGE
Notice to Operators
Operational Instructional Data Sheet
Safety Precautions
Preparation.
Operation.
Maintenance, Repair and Storage.
Assembly
Removing the Surface Grinder From the Pallet.
Installing the SG24-1000 Safety and Dust Shield Assembly Kit.
Before Starting the Engine
Filling the Engine Crankcase with Oil.
Filling the SG24/G Series Engine Fuel Tank.
Filling the SG24/GHP Propane Cylinder.
Operation
Theory of Operation
Multi-Accessory Attachments and Applications.
Installing a Multi-Accessory Attachment (not including multi-segmented,
dry diamond discs) in the Counterrotating Discs.
Removing a Multi-Accessory Attachment (not including multi-segmented,
dry diamond discs) from the counterrotating discs.
Transporting the Surface Grinder.
Adjusting the Operator Handle Height.
Starting the SG24/E Series Electrically Powered Surface Grinder on the
Job Site .
Starting the SG24/G Series Gaasoline Powered Surface Grinder on the Job
Site.
Procedures for the Safe handling of Propane.
Example of a Propane Emergency Plan.
Starting the SG24/GHP Propane Converted Surface Grinder on the Job
Site.
Counteracting the Propane Refrigeration Effect.
Operating the Surface Grinder on the Job Site.
Stopping the SG24/E Series Electrically Powered Surface Grinder.
Stopping the SG24/G Series Gasoline Powered Surface Grinder.
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Table of Contents
Continues on next page
SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 2

DESCRIPTION PAGE
Stopping the SG24/GHP Propane Converted Surface Grinder
Operational Parameters and Techniques for the SG24 Series Surface
Grinder.
Service
Preventative Maintenance Check List.
Checking V-Belt Tension and Alignment.
Installing a Replacement V-Belt, Centrifugal Clutch or Pully.
Replacing the Lord® Type Elastomeric Mounts on the Multi-Accessory
Discs.
Lubrication Requirements.
Electric Motor Service.
Engine Service.
Troubleshooting
Electric Motor.
Engine.
Operational Problems.
Storage
Specifications
Replacement Parts Diagrams
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SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 3

Notice to Operators
IF YOU CAN NOT READ OR DO NOT FULLY UNDERSTAND THE CONTENTS OF THIS
MANUAL, PLEASE CONTACT THE FACTORY FOR PROPER ASSISTANCE BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS PRODUCT.
SI TU NO PUEDES LE'ER O NO COMPRENDES EL CONTENIDO DE ESTE MANUAL
FAVOR DE PONERSE EN CONTACTO CON LA. FABRICA PARA ASSISTENCIA- A
PROPIA ANTES DE INTENTAR PARA OPERAR ESTE PRODUCTO.
SOLLTEN SIE DIESE GEBRAUCHSANWEISUNG NICHT LESEN KOENNEN ODER ES
NICHT VOLLKOMMEN VERSTEHEN, WENDEN SIE SICH BITTE AN DEN
HERSTELLER FUER RICHTIGE HILFE EHE SIE VERSUCHEN DIESES PRODUKT ZU
OPERIEREN.
SI VOUS NE LISEZ OU NE COMPRENDRE ENTIEREMENT LES MATIERES DE CE
MANUEL, S'IL VOUS PLAIT, CONTACTEZ L'USINE POUR L'ASSISTANCE
APPROPRIEE AVANT D'UTILISER LE PRODUIT.
These safety alert symbols identify important safety messages in this manual. When you see these symbols,
be alert to the possibility of personal injury and carefully read the message that follows.
Do not allow anyone to operate the Surface Grinder without first reading this Operator's Manual and
becoming familiar with its operation. The manufacturer of this Surface Grinder has gone to great extremes
to provide the owner(s) and/or operator(s) with the finest equipment available for its intended job function
of providing a variety of industry recognized surface preparation functions on horizontal floor surfaces. Yet,
the possibility exists that the Surface Grinder can be utilized in and/or subjected to job applications not
perceived and/or anticipated by the manufacturer. Such misuse and/or misapplication of the Surface Grinder
can lead to the possibility of serious damage, injury or even death. It is the responsibility of the owner(s)
and/or operator(s) to determine that the Surface Grinder is being utilized and/or operated within the scope
of its intended job function. It is the responsibility of the owner(s) and/or operator(s) to establish, monitor
and constantly upgrade all safety programs and/or practices utilized in and for the operation of the Surface
Grinder. The purpose of such programs is to provide for owner(s') and/or operator(s') safety. Operators must
be instructed to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with their work (29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(2))
and/or applicable updated revisions. It is the responsibility of the owner(s) and/or operator(s) to determine
that no modifications and/or alterations have been made to the Surface Grinder. Modifications and/or
alterations can lead to the possibility of serious damage, injury or even death. It is the responsibility of the
owner(s) and/or operator(s) to make this Operator's Manual available for consultation during all phases of
operation. Refer to OSHA 2207 and/or applicable updated revisions which contains all OSHA job safety and
health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction.
The concept of powered Surface Grinder has been successfully utilized for many years as a practical
solution to many types of surface preparation requirements. The basic concept is proven and well accepted
within the associated marketplace. Use of a Surface Grinder requires strenuous work activity. This type of
work activity can be considered to be greater in magnitude than that experienced with the use of many other
types of both light construction and lawn and garden related equipment. This type of work activity should
SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 4

SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 5
only be attempted by operators of adequate physical size and stature, mental awareness and physical
strength and condition. The body parts most noticeably affected during any specific process are the arms,
hands, wrists, shoulders, lower back and legs. The process can also produce excessive stress/strain
directly to the back muscles, spinal vertebrae and many other body parts. Back related pain can be a side
effect of utilizing a Surface Grinder. An operator with a chronic back related problem or a history of back
and/or other medically related problems should not attempt to utilize the Surface Grinder. Use of the Surface
Grinder may only aggravate this and any other medically related problem. Because of the diverse type of
prevailing job applications, job site conditions, operator experience levels and operator physical
characteristics, no warranty, guarantee, representation and/or liability is made by the manufacturer as to the
absolute correctness or sufficiency of any operational procedure, operational position and/or technique.
There is no absolute guarantee that an operator of any given experience level, physical size and/or physical
condition will be immune to the possibility of and/or probable physical side effects of the normal use of the
Surface Grinder. Each potential operator must be made aware of and assume the operational and physical
liability described and/or associated with the use of the Surface Grinder. Improper use of the Surface
Grinder can result in property damage and/or personal injury, including death. Each potential operator not
willing to assume the operational and physical liability described and/or associated with the use of the
Surface Grinder, should not operate it. Proper levels of operator experience, skill and common sense are
essential for maximizing the safe and efficient operation of the Surface Grinder.
Record the Surface Grinder and engine/electric motor serial numbers in the spaces provided below.
_______________ Model Number
_______________ Serial Number
_______________ Engine/Electric Motor Serial Number
_______________ Date of Purchase
Specifications and design are subject to change without notice or obligation. All specifications are general
in nature and are not intended for specific application purposes. General Equipment Company reserves
the right to make changes in design, engineering or specifications and to add improvements or discontinue
manufacture at any time without notice or obligation. General Equipment Company and its agents accept no
responsibility for variations which may be evident in actual products, specifications, pictures and
descriptions contained in this publication.
Operator Instructional Data Sheet
The following undersigned operators of the Surface Grinder described and/or pertaining to this Operator's
Manual have received formal safety and operational information/instruction from the undersigned
owner(s)/instructor(s) in accordance to OSHA 29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(2) and/or applicable updated revisions
pertaining to, but not necessarily limited to the:
1) READING, COMPREHENSION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE MATERIAL COMPRISING THE
ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE APPLICABLE OPERATOR'S MANUAL AND SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL
INFORMATION VIDEO TAPE FOR THE SURFACE GRINDER.

SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 6
2) FORMALIZED OPERATOR'S SAFETY PROGRAM TO BE DEVISED BY THE OWNER OF THE
SURFACE GRINDER IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONTENTS OF THE APPLICABLE OPERATOR'S
MANUAL, SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL INFORMATION VIDEO TAPE FOR THE SURFACE GRINDER
AND THE APPLICABLE MATERIAL INCLUDED IN THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE®.
3) OSHA AND NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE® RULES AND REGULATIONS RESEARCHED FOR
AND/OR BY THE OWNER OF THE SURFACE GRINDER AND DEEMED APPLICABLE TO THE SAFE
AND PROPER USE AND/OR OPERATION OF THE SURFACE GRINDER FOR ANY SPECIFIC JOB
APPLICATION.
4) LOCAL LAWS, REGULATIONS AND CUSTOMS RESEARCHED FOR AND/OR BY THE OWNER OF
THE SURFACE GRINDER AND DEEMED APPLICABLE TO THE SAFE AND PROPER USE AND/OR
OPERATION OF THE SURFACE GRINDER FOR ANY SPECIFIC JOB APPLICATION.
5) FORMALIZED MAINTENANCE PROGRAM FOR THE SURFACE GRINDER TO BE DEVISED BY THE
OWNER OF THE SURFACE GRINDER IN ACCORDANCE WITH, BUT NOT NECESSARILY LIMITED TO,
THE SPECIFICATIONS, GUIDELINES AND OPERATIONAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THE
APPLICABLE OPERATOR'S MANUAL.
6) COMPREHENSIVE OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE CORRECT AND PROPER USE OF
THE SURFACE GRINDER AS PER THE CONTENTS OF THE APPLICABLE OPERATOR'S MANUAL,
SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL INFORMATION VIDEO TAPE AND APPLICABLE MATERIAL INCLUDED
IN THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE®.
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
_______________ Operator _______________ Owner/Instructor __________ Date
NOTE: INSERT COPIES OF THIS PAGE WITHIN THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL IF SPACE FOR
ADDITIONAL OPERATORS IS REQUIRED.

Safety Precautions
THE FOLLOWING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
PROVIDE SOME COMMON SENSE GUIDES TO
PROMOTE SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY WITH THE
SURFACE GRINDER. NO WARRANTY,
GUARANTEE OR REPRESENTATION IS MADE BY
THE MANUFACTURER AS TO THE ABSOLUTE
CORRECTNESS OR SUFFICIENCY OF ANY
INFORMATION OR STATEMENT. THESE SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS ARE INTENDED TO DEAL
PRINCIPALLY WITH COMMON PRACTICES AND
CONDITIONS ENCOUNTERED IN THE USE OF THE
SURFACE GRINDER AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO
BE ALL INCLUSIVE. PROPER LEVELS OF
OPERATOR EXPERIENCE, SKILL AND COMMON
SENSE ARE ESSENTIAL FOR SAFE AND
EFFICIENT OPERATION.
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT
CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE
OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH
DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM.
THIS STATEMENT IS MADE IN COMPLIANCE TO
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65.
INCORRECT USE OF THE SURFACE GRINDER
CAN RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, PERSONAL
INJURY OR EVEN DEATH. TO REDUCE THIS
POSSIBILITY, GIVE COMPLETE AND UNDIVIDED
ATTENTION TO THE JOB AT HAND AND FOLLOW
THESE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
PREPARATION.
1) This Surface Grinder is a specialized type of
powered equipment, designed for a specific job
function and requires adequate and thorough
instruction BEFORE it is operated. The size, power,
complexity and operating characteristics of this type of
powered equipment would dictate that each operator
must receive adequate, professional instruction
regarding the proper operation of this Surface Grinder
before being allowed to utilize it. BEFORE attempting
to utilize this Surface Grinder, read this Operator's
Manual, the applicable Safety and Operating
Information Video Tape and the material supplied by
the engine manufacturer to familiarize each operator
with its correct operating procedures. Avoid the urge
not to take the necessary time to read this Operator's
Manual before operating the Surface Grinder. DO NOT
OPERATE THE SURFACE GRINDER UNTIL EACH
OPERATOR COMPLETELY COMPREHENDS THE
CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL AND THE
APPLICABLE SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL
INFORMATION VIDEO TAPE.
2) Develop a comprehensive program for the safe
operation of the Surface Grinder by its owner(s) and/or
operator(s). Such a program will include, but is not
limited to: instructional requirements for operation,
applicable OSHA requirements, local laws and
regulations, job site safety and a Surface Grinder
maintenance program. Constantly examine and
upgrade this program to guarantee owner(s) and/or
operator(s) safety. Each operator must be fully
instructed regarding the specifics of this safety
program.
3) Determine that the Surface Grinder is in its original,
factory configuration and has not been modified in any
manner. Many modifications can result in potentially
dangerous configurations that can lead to property
damage and/or personal injury. If there are any
questions about possible modifications made to the
Surface Grinder, contact the Customer Service
Department for specific information BEFORE
utilization. There is no charge for this service. Do not
operate the Surface Grinder without the use of the
original equipment V-belt guard. Use of the Surface
Grinder without an approved belt guard can lead to
property damage and/or personal injury.
4) Minors should never be allowed to operate the
Surface Grinder. Bystanders, especially children and
animals, should not be allowed in the area where the
Surface Grinder is in use. The grinding process can
result in flying particles being emitted at high velocity
and striking the operator and/or onlookers. This can
lead to the possibility of property damage and/or
personal injury. Keep all body parts, loose clothing,
foreign objects and onlookers clear of the rotating
discs, multi-accessory attachments and flying particles.
SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 7

5) Operators must be in adequate physical condition,
mental health and not under the influence of any
substance (drugs, alcohol, etc.) which might impair
vision, dexterity or judgment. Working with the Surface
Grinder is strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with
your doctor BEFORE operating the Surface Grinder.
Guard against the possibility of back related injuries.
Always lift the Surface Grinder with leg muscles and
not with the back.
6) Prolonged use of the Surface Grinder (or other,
similar machines) exposes the operator to vibrations
which may produce Whitefinger Disease (Raynaud's
Phenomenon). This phenomenon reduces the hand's
ability to feel and regulate temperature, produces
numbness and burning sensations and may cause
nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis.
Antivibration systems do not guarantee that you will not
sustain Whitefinger Disease. Therefore, continuous
and regular users should closely monitor the condition
of their hands and fingers. After each period of use,
exercise to restore normal blood circulation. If any of
the symptoms appear, seek medical advice
immediately.
7) Clothing must be sturdy and snug fitting, but allow
complete freedom of movement. Never wear loose
fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, jewelry, flared or
cuffed pants or anything that could become caught on
controls or moving parts. Wear long pants to protect
your legs. Protect your hands with heavy duty, nonslip
gloves to improve your grip. Good footing is most
important when operating the Surface Grinder. Wear
sturdy boots with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety
shoes are highly recommended. Never wear tennis
shoes or other, similar type shoes which afford little or
no protection. Wear an approved safety hard hat to
protect the operator'(s') head(s) where there is a
danger of head injuries. Noise, generated by the
engine of the Surface Grinder and the actual process
itself, can damage your hearing. Wear approved sound
barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to protect your
hearing. Continuous and regular operators should
have their hearing checked regularly.
8) Visually inspect the Surface Grinder, components,
tools and accessories for damaged or worn parts.
BEFORE each use:
a) Disconnect the engine spark plug wire or power
source cable.
b) Clean and remove all accumulated foreign matter
from the wheels and determine that each rotates freely.
c) Clean and remove all accumulated foreign matter
from inside the main frame area.
d) Inspect the V-belt drive for proper tension, wear and
general condition. Replace each component as
necessary.
e) Inspect the multi-accessory discs and gimbal head
assemblies for excessive wear and structural integrity.
Replace each component as necessary. The multi-
accessory discs rotating at high speed during the
specific process can be subject to high wear rates if the
installed attachment is not properly maintained and/or
replaced at regular service intervals.
f) Determine that operator controls work freely, all
safety devices are operative and information decals
are readable.
g) Check to see that the Surface Grinder and all related
accessories are in good, mechanical condition
BEFORE utilization.
h) Reconnect the spark plug wire or power source
cable as applicable.
9) Contact appropriate representatives to determine
if/where electrical cables, gas lines and other
hazardous items are buried under the work surface
BEFORE utilization. The Surface Grinder and related
accessories are not insulated. Contact with buried
electrical cables, gas lines and other hazardous items
can result in electrocution and/or an explosion.
10) Know how the controls operate. Know how to stop
the engine or electrical motor quickly in an emergency.
Always start the engine or electric motor according to
the instructions as outlined in this manual to minimize
the possibility of unexpected contact with the work
surface. Unexpected contact with the work surface can
cause loss of machine control, and the possibility of
property damage and/or personal injury.
11) Ground the SG24/E electrically powered Surface
Grinder motor securely. Determine that any
"grounding" wire and/or device is, in fact, properly
grounding the motor. Failure to properly ground the
motor may cause an electrical shock and/or
electrocution, resulting in property damage and
personal injury including death. Electrical wiring and all
connections should be performed by a qualified
electrician. Depending upon the wiring configuration,
the electric motor is designed to operate from either
115 or 230 volt, AC power sources. Determine that the
electric motor voltage switch is properly selected
SG24 GRINDER FORM GOM3259601, VERSION 1.2, AUTHORIZATION: DVR, PAGE: 8