GeoRipper GR16H Assembly instructions

FOUR ASHES MACHINERY LTD
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Operator’s Instruction Manual
GeoRipper Mini Trencher
Models GR16M, GR16H, GR20M, GR20H, GR20S, GR27M,
GR27H, GR27S
These are the original English instructions. IMPORTANT: read this instruction manual carefully before operating the
GeoRipper® Mini Trencher and strictly observe the safety regulations. Keep this instruction manual!
May 2019
Version 1.1

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DISCLAIMER
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd makes no representations or warranties with respect to this manual and, to the maximum
extent permitted by law, expressly limits its liability for breach of any warranty that may be implied to the
replacement of this manual with another. Furthermore, Four Ashes Machinery Ltd reserves the right to revise this
publication at any time without incurring an obligation to notify any person of the revision.
The information provided in this documentation contains general descriptions and/or technical characteristics of the
performance of the products contained herein. This documentation is not intended as a substitute for and is not to
be used for determining suitability or reliability of these products for specific user applications. It is the duty of any
such user or integrator to perform the appropriate and complete risk analysis, evaluation and testing of the products
with respect to the relevant specific application or use thereof. Neither Four Ashes Machinery Ltd nor any of its
affiliates or subsidiaries shall be responsible or liable for misuse of the information that is contained herein. If you
have any suggestions for improvements or amendments or have found errors in this publication, please notify us.
All pertinent state, regional, and local safety regulations must be observed when installing and using this product.
For reasons of safety and to help ensure compliance with documented system data, only the manufacturer shall
perform repairs to components.
When devices are used for applications with technical safety requirements, the relevant instructions must be
followed.
Failure to observe this information can result in injury or equipment damage.
Copyright © 2019 by Four Ashes Machinery Ltd
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written
permission of the publisher. For permission requests, write to the publisher at the address below.
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd, Four Ashes, Ashwicke Road, Marshfield SN14 8AD, United Kingdom
Tel: [phone], www.georipper.co.uk
TRADEMARKS
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd has made every effort to supply trademark information about company names, products
and services mentioned in this manual. Trademarks shown below were derived from various sources. All trademarks
are the property of their respective owners.
General Notice: Some product names used in this manual are used for identification purposes only and may be
trademarks of their respective companies.

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Product Modifications
Year
Type
Modifications
2016
GeoRipper
Original model
Document Revisions
Date
Version Number
Document Changes
25-05-2019
1.10
Initial document
Approvals
This document requires following approvals:
Name
Title
Notes

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Table of Contents
1PREFACE..........................................................................................................................................7
1.1.... Description of the User and Intended Use.......................................................................................7
1.2.... Conventions Used in This Manual ...................................................................................................7
1.3.... Explanation of Safety Warnings and Symbols.................................................................................7
1.4.... Retaining Instructions .....................................................................................................................8
1.5.... Obtaining Documentation and Information....................................................................................9
1.5.1Internet ................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.5.2Ordering Documentation......................................................................................................................... 9
1.5.3Other languages ...................................................................................................................................... 9
1.5.4Documentation Feedback........................................................................................................................ 9
1.5.5Support and service ................................................................................................................................. 9
2Description of the GeoRipper® .....................................................................................................10
2.1.... Intended Use and Reasonably Foreseeable Misuse.......................................................................10
2.2.... Product Overview..........................................................................................................................10
2.3.... Technical Data ..............................................................................................................................11
2.4.... Product Compliance ......................................................................................................................12
2.5.... Product elements ..........................................................................................................................12
2.6.... Understanding the user interface .................................................................................................13
2.7.... Components function....................................................................................................................14
2.8.... Explanation of Visual Signs ...........................................................................................................14
2.9.... Description of Working Environment ............................................................................................15
2.10 . Lifting and transporting ................................................................................................................15
3Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................................16
3.1.... How to Use the Product Safely......................................................................................................16
3.1.1Safety information for vulnerable people in the workplace.................................................................... 16
3.1.2Technical life span ................................................................................................................................. 16
3.1.3Safety information related to the intended use and reasonably foreseeable misuse; ............................ 16
3.1.4Personal Protective Equipment.............................................................................................................. 17
3.1.5Product limitations and restrictions ....................................................................................................... 17
3.1.6Installation safety information............................................................................................................... 17
3.1.7Safety information regarding the use..................................................................................................... 17
3.1.8Maintenance safety information............................................................................................................ 17

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3.1.9Safe Disposal ......................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.... Machinery Failure .........................................................................................................................18
3.2.1Catastrophic Failure............................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.2Progressive Failure of wear parts........................................................................................................... 18
3.3.... Potential Health Consequences.....................................................................................................18
4Assembly Instructions...................................................................................................................19
4.1.... Assembly of the GeoRipper® Mini Trencher ..................................................................................19
4.1.1Content ................................................................................................................................................. 19
4.1.2Assemble the GeoRipper® bar and chain ............................................................................................... 19
4.2.... Assembly of the EZ Kart® ..............................................................................................................22
4.2.1Content ................................................................................................................................................. 22
4.2.2Assembly ............................................................................................................................................... 22
5Operation......................................................................................................................................26
5.1.... How to Transport and Store the Product ......................................................................................26
5.1.1Lifting, handling and transporting the GeoRipper®................................................................................. 26
5.1.2Storing the GeoRipper® ......................................................................................................................... 26
5.2.... Commissioning and Starting the GeoRipper®................................................................................26
5.2.1Commissioning ...................................................................................................................................... 26
5.2.2Fuelling.................................................................................................................................................. 27
5.3.... How to Use the GeoRipper®..........................................................................................................28
5.3.1Before you start trenching ..................................................................................................................... 28
5.3.2Starting the machine ............................................................................................................................. 28
5.3.3Using the EZ Kart® ................................................................................................................................. 28
5.3.4Trenching with the GeoRipper® hand held............................................................................................. 29
5.3.5Ground conditon and tips ...................................................................................................................... 30
5.3.6Vibration information for portable hand-held and hand guided machinery ........................................... 31
6Maintenance, Servicing and Warranty..........................................................................................32
6.1.... Regular checks and maintenance to be carried out by the operator.............................................32
6.1.1Replacing the drive sprocket.................................................................................................................. 33
6.1.2Replacing the nose idler sprocket .......................................................................................................... 33
6.1.3Replacing the V belt............................................................................................................................... 33
6.1.4Lubricating the chain ............................................................................................................................. 33
6.2.... Servicing........................................................................................................................................33
6.3.... Warranty ......................................................................................................................................33
6.4.... How to Identify and Solve Problems .............................................................................................34

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6.4.1Troubleshooting and repair by the operator .......................................................................................... 34
6.4.2Troubleshooting by Service Centre ........................................................................................................ 34
6.5.... Frequently Asked Questions..........................................................................................................35
6.6.... Spare Parts, Wear Parts and Optional Accessories .......................................................................35
7Disposal.........................................................................................................................................37
8Related Documentation & Illustrations ........................................................................................38
9Declaration of Conformity for Machinery.....................................................................................39

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1PREFACE
1.1 Description of the User and Intended Use
The GeoRipper® Mini Trencher is intended to cut narrow trenches in most types of soil for laying pipes, cables,
drainage system, root pruning, root barrier and any other applications where the cutting of a trench in the soil is
required. It is not intended for cutting into solid ground like tarmac or concrete paths, or solid objects such as stones
or tree roots over 7cmm in diameter. The user must be an adult 18+ and wear the required Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) including gloves, eye protection, face shield, ear protection, steel toe-cap footwear, and in some
instances, shin pads. The user is required to know about the safe operation and maintenance of the GeoRipper® and
have read, understood and followed the information detailed in this manual. Persons unfamiliar with the Instruction
Manual, children, persons under 18 and persons under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication must not
operate the GeoRipper®
This document is intended solely for the authorised user of the GeoRipper® and is an essential part of the machine.
This document is intended to help familiarise the user with the operation and safe handling of the GeoRipper®.
1.2 Conventions Used in This Manual
This Instruction Manual has been published in accordance with 82079-1, ANSI Z535.6 or ISO 3864 and EU Directive
requirements. This manual is intended to help ensure accurate and safe operations over the life of the machine and
help to take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents.
The GeoRipper® is built in compliance with the applicable requirements laid out in the following documents:
• EN 474 10 2007 + A1 2009 Earth Moving Machinery / Trenchers
• EN ISO 3547 2004 Earth Moving Guard Requirements
• EN ISO 12100 2010 Design / Risk Assessment & Risk Reduction
• EN ISO 14121-2 2012 Machine Safety & Risk Assessment
This manual provides information on the following:
• Device safety and accident prevention
• Installation and related maintenance
• Troubleshooting
1.3 Explanation of Safety Warnings and Symbols
ISO 3864 and ANSI Z535 Safety Signals
Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury
Warning indicates a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Caution indicates a hazard with a low level of risk which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

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Read the Instruction Manual Foot injury risk
Wear protective gloves Risk of hand injury
Wear eyes protection Danger, risk of kickback
Wear ear protection Stop the engine
Wear steel toe caps footwear No smoking or naked flame
Wear dust mask Direction of chain rotation
Particular care and caution Fuel and oil mixture
Electrical danger Recycling
Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related.
1.4 Retaining Instructions
Read and understand this manual and its safety instructions before using this product. Failure to do so can result in
serious injury or death. Follow all the instructions. This will avoid fire, explosions, electric shocks or other hazards
that may result in damage to property and/or severe or fatal injuries. The product shall only be used by persons who
have fully read and understand the contents of this user manual. Employers have a responsibility to ensure that each
person who uses the product has read these warnings and instructions and follows them. Keep all safety information
and instructions for future reference and pass them on to subsequent users of the product. The manufacturer is not
liable for cases of material damage or personal injury caused by incorrect handling or non-compliance with the
safety instructions. In such cases, the warranty will be void.

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1.5 Obtaining Documentation and Information
1.5.1 Internet
The latest version of the documentation is available at the following address: http://www.georipper.co.uk/safety-
instructions
1.5.2 Ordering documentation
Documentation, user instructions and technical information can be ordered by emailing Four Ashes Machinery Ltd.
at [email protected].
1.5.3 Other languages
This is the English user manual. Manuals in other languages are available upon request.
1.5.4 Documentation feedback
If you are reading Four Ashes Machinery Ltd. product documentation on the internet, any comments can be
submitted on the support website. Comments can also be sent to con[email protected].
We appreciate your comments.
1.5.5 Support and service
For information about special tools and materials please contact:
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd., Four Ashes, Ashwicke Road, Marshfield SN14 8AD, United Kingdom
[phone], www.georipper.co.uk
For other questions, information, technical assistance or ordering user instructions, please contact the
manufacturer:
GR Manufacturing, 5 Lilburn Street, Warkworth 0910, New Zealand
www.minitrencher.com
For service related questions, contact:
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd., Four Ashes, Ashwicke Road, Marshfield SN14 8AD, United Kingdom
[phone], www.georipper.co.uk

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2Description of the GeoRipper®
2.1 Intended Use and Reasonably Foreseeable Misuse
The GeoRipper® is intended to be used as an outdoor landscaping power tool for trenching purposes in suitable
ground conditions as described in this manual. The GeoRipper® can be used hand held or mounted on its EZ Kart®
and must always be coupled to an approved drive unit. The user must have read and understood the instruction
manual and wear the appropriate recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) before operating the
GeoRipper®. Failure to wear the recommended PPE is considered improper use. Failure to read and understand this
manual is considered improper use
The GeoRipper® shall not be used as a forestry tool to cut or fell trees or branches. The GeoRipper® must not be
used in extremely stony grounds, solid rocks, tarmac concrete or any other unsuitable ground conditions which do
not allow trenching. The GeoRipper® must not be used underground, indoor or in any other enclosed areas. The
GeoRipper® must only be operated by one user and the operation of the GeoRipper® by two or more users is not
permitted and considered improper use.
Failure to follow the instructions provided in this manual regarding operation, maintenance and servicing is
considered improper use and will void the warranty. Four Ashes Machinery Ltd. will not be liable for any accidents or
damages resulting from improper use of the GeoRipper®.
The GeoRipper® shall be used with the following original and model dependents accessories and components only:
GR16 400mm bar
GR20 500mm bar
GR27 700mm bar
GR-M (Makita® EK6101, EK7650H and EK8100)
GR-H (Husqvarna® K770 and K970)
GR-S (Stihl® TS700)
EZ Kart universal trolley with model variations
2.2 Product Overview
The GeoRipper® mini trencher consists of an adaptor plate supporting a trenching bar and chain, and mounted on a
petrol powered cut off saw. The Georipper® is available in a combination of model variations that includes different
bar lengths: 400mm, 500mm, 700mm, petrol engine types: 2-Stroke, 4-Stroke and 2-Stroke HD, and a selection of
power head brands: Makita®, Husqvarna® or Stihl®. This Instruction Manual is intended to cover all available models
and variations, but for individual complementary information, please refer to the power head manufacturer’s
instructions. The GeoRipper® can be used handheld or mounted on its universal trolley, the EZ Kart®.

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Technical Data
Specifications
Model
GR16M, GR20M
GR16M, GR20M
GR16M, GR20M,
GR27M
GR16H, GR20H
GR20H, GR27H
GR20S,
GR27S
Power Head Variations
GR-M Makita EK6101
GR-M Makita
EK7650H
GR-M Makita
EK8100
GR-H Husqvarna
K770
GR-H
Husqvarna K970
GR-S Stihl
TS700
Type
2-Stroke
4-Stroke
2-Stroke HD
2-Stroke
2-Stroke HD
2-Stroke HD
Max. Power at Operating
Speed
3.2kW 9,500rpm
3.0kW 9,000rpm
4.2kW 9,150rpm
3.7kW /9,000 rpm
4.8kW
9,000rpm
5.0kW
9,300rpm
Bore
47mm
51mm
52mm
51mm
56mm
56mm
Stroke
35mm
37mm
38mm
36mm
38mm
40mm
Displacement
60.7cc
75.6cc
81cc
74cc
93.6cc
98.5cc
Max. Torque
3.9 Nm
4.6Nm
5.0Nm
unknown
unknown
unknown
Idling Speed
2,600 rpm
2,600 rpm
2,500 rpm
2,700 rpm
2,700 rpm
2,200 rpm
Clutch Engagement Speed
3,900 rpm
unknown
3,800 rpm
unknown
unknown
unknown
Max. Engine Speed
9,850 rpm +/-150
9,100 rpm
9,350 rpm +/-145
9,300 rpm +/- 150
9,300 rpm +/-
150
unknown
Max. Spindle Speed
4,400 rpm
4,300 rpm
3,820 rpm
4,700 rpm
4,700 rpm
5,080 rpm
Fuel Type
Mix Unleaded + 2-
Stroke oil
Unleaded
Mix Unleaded + 2-
Stroke oil
Mix Unleaded + 2-
Stroke oil
Mix Unleaded +
2-Stroke oil
Mix Unleaded
+ 2-Stroke oil
Mixture Ratio
50:1
N/A
50:1
50:1
50:1
50:1
Sound Pressure Level
99.6dbA (Kpa=2.5)
92.7dbA (Kpa=2.5)
100dbA (79dbA at
15m)
113.0dbA
114.0dbA
101.0dbA
Sound Power Level
108.6dbA (Kwa=2.5)
104.6dbA (Kwa=2.5)
Not recorded
115.0dbA
115.0dbA
113.0dbA
Vibration Acceleration Rear
Handle Bench Tested
4.37m/s²
≤4.37m/s²
Estimated
5.2m/ s² +k
Estimated
≤4.37m/s²
Estimated
4.2m/s² +k
4.5m/s² +k
Estimated
Vibration Acceleration Tubular
Handle Bench Tested
4.73m/s²
≤4.73m/s²
Estimated
9.3m/ s² +k
Estimated
≤4.73m/s²
Estimated
3.8m/s² +k
6.6m/s² +k
Estimated
Vibration Acceleration Field
Tested Handheld
22.6m/s²
≤22.6m/s²
Estimated
Pending
≤22.6m/s²
Estimated
Pending
Pending
Vibration Acceleration Field
Tested EZ Kart Handle
4.65m/s²
≤4.65m/s²
Estimated
Pending
≤4.65m/s²
Estimated
Pending
Pending
Fuel Consumption at Max. Load
1.42kg/h
unknown
1.85kg/h
unknown
unknown
unknown
Fuel Tank Capacity
0.7L
1.1L
1.1L
0.9L
1.0L
1.2L
Oil Tank Capacity
N/A
0.22L SAE10W30
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
V-Belt Part Number
965-300-510 (6PJ/812)
225094-6 (5PJ/800)
965-300-481
(5PJ/900)
544-9084-06
544-9763-04
9490-000-
7920
Spark Plug and Gap
NGK BPMR 7A /
0.5mm
NGK CMR6H /
0.5mm
NGK BPMR 7A /
0.5mm
NGK BPMR 7A /
0.5mm
NGK BPMR 7A /
0.5mm
NGK BPMR
7A / 0.5mm
Overall Weight
GR16: 13.9kg
GR20: 14.4kg
GR16: 17.8kg
GR20: 18.3kg
GR16: 15.7kg
GR20: 16.2kg
GR27: 18.0kg
GR16: 14.3kg
GR20: 14.8kg
GR20: 16.0kg
GR27: 17.4kg
GR20: 16.3kg
GR27: 18.0kg
Chain Speed at Max. Spindle
rotation
8.8m/s
8.6m/s
7.7m/s
9.4m/s
9.4m/s
10.2m/s
Chain Break-Out Force
6.57 kN
6.57 kN
6.57 kN
6.57 kN
6.57 kN
6.57 kN

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2.3 Product Compliance
This product complies with all relevant European Directives. The Declaration of Conformity can be found in the
appendix. The Product is in conformity with the following relevant product safety standards:
• EN 474 10 2007 + A1 2009 Earth Moving Machinery / Trenchers
• EN ISO 3547 2004 Earth Moving Guard Requirements
• EN ISO 12100 2010 Design / Risk Assessment & Risk Reduction
• EN ISO 14121-2 2012 Machine Safety & Risk Assessment
2.4 GeoRipper® Elements
Fig.1
1. 3mm hardened steel cutting teeth
2. Heavy duty chain and bar
3. Cutting bar bolts x2 and mounting plate
4. Serial number location
5. Discharged chute and stone guard
6. Front handle
7. Rear handle
8. Throttle control
9. Engine
10. Drive sprocket
11. Nose sprocket and mounting plates
The red arrow indicates the travel direction of the chain
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
4

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Fig.2
12. Axle and wheels
13. Rubber handle and throttle lever
14. Pulling strap
15. Throttle cable and latch
2.5 Understanding the User Interface
The GeoRipper® mini trencher is made of a cutting chain and bar (2 Fig.1) mounted on a power unit. The power unit,
or engine (9 Fig.1), is an integral part of the product. The GeoRipper® can be operated hand held using the two
handles (7 & 6 Fig.1) located on the power unit. The user operates the GeoRipper® with the throttle trigger (7 Fig.1)
and the engine rotates the chain in the direction indicated by the red arrow. The chain stops rotating when the
operator releases the throttle trigger and the engine returns to idle speed. Additional information about the power
head can be found in the operation manual of the relating model and manufacturer.
The GeoRipper® can be used mounted on the optional EZ Kart® (Fig.2) which is standard with GR27-M, GR27-H and
GR27-S. When mounted on the EZ Kart®, the user operates the machine using the lever throttle (13 Fig.2) on the cart
handle and pulls the GeoRipper® using the straps provided (14 Fig.2)
12
13
14
15

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2.6 Components Function
The chain and its cutting teeth (1 Fig.1) is a ground engaging assembly that creates a trench in the ground by rotating
at speed in the direction indicated by the red arrow on Fig1, away from the operator. The chain bar (2 Fig.1), drive
sprocket (10 Fig.1) and nose sprocket (11 Fig.1), provide guidance and engaged the chain to rotate. The drive
sprocket is powered by the engine (9 Fig.1) which is controlled by the operator using the throttle trigger (8 Fig.1) on
the power head or the throttle lever (13 Fig.2) on the cart. The wheels (12 Fig.2) on the EZ Kart® provide motion for
the machine when pulled by the operator using the straps (14 Fig.2).
2.7 Explanation of Visual Signs
Fig.3
Location of the manufacturer’s serial number (4 Fig.1). The serial number is unique and identifies the model, bar size
and power head manufacturer for each GeoRipper®. The serial number is stamped in the GeoRipper® mounting
plate just above the bar securing bolts.
Fig.4
Manufacturer’s Warning sticker can be found on the power head.
Fig.5
CE Marking sticker can be found on the GeoRipper® mounting plate in compliance with EU Directives.
GeoRipper® Mini Trencher
Models: GR-M, GR-H
Year: 2019
Imported and distributed by:
Four Ashes Machinery Ltd.
Four Ashes, Marshfield SN14 8AD, UK
www.georipper.co.uk

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2.8 Description of Working Environment
The GeoRipper® is intended for outdoor used on flat or gently sloping ground suitable for digging trenches. The
GeoRipper® is not to be used indoor or in other enclosed spaces or on any type of ground deemed unsuitable for the
digging of trenches such as extreme slopes, solid ground or extremely rocky ground. The operator must make sure
that the working area has been cleared of any debris or obstacles before commencing work with the GeoRipper®
and that any bystanders are located outside the danger perimeter zone of 10 meters radius with particular attention
to the 9-12 o’clock area. Only operate with good visibility and avoid trenching in wet or slippery ground conditions.
2.9 Lifting and Transporting
The GeoRipper® can be lifted by its tubular front handle (6 Fig.1) and always carried with the engine switch off and
the trenching bar facing backwards. Ensure that the fuel cap is properly closed. Do not touch the exhaust whilst
transporting as it may be hot. When used with the EZ Kart®, the mini trencher must not be lifted or carried, but only
transported by pushing or pulling the EZ Kart® on its wheels. When transported inside a vehicle, the GeoRipper®
must be standing upright to avoid fuel / oil spillage and be suitably strapped down inside the vehicle with the bar
removed and stored securely.

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3Safety Instructions
Read and understand this manual and its safety instructions before using this product.
Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death.
3.1 How to Use the Product Safely
3.1.1 Safety information for vulnerable people in the workplace
Employers have a responsibility to ensure that vulnerable people have been suitably trained to operate the
GeoRipper® and that a suitable assessment process has been established.
3.1.2 Technical life span
The GeoRipper® is made of wear parts which can be replaced as many times as required. The machine will come to
the end of its lifespan when it is judged no longer economically viable to repair the power unit.
3.1.3 Safety information related to the intended use and reasonably foreseeable misuse
The GeoRipper® is engineered and built following recognized safety requirements however risk may occur if not used
in accordance to these instructions.
Only use for trenching in suitably assessed ground conditions such as soil and soft ground
Check before you start trenching for cables, pipes or other utilities buried in the ground. If in doubt do not
trench
Always start the trench with the machine on the ground with the cutting bar parallel to the ground
Do not start the trench with the chain rotating at high speed: risk of kickbacks
Do not start the engine with the bar and chain touching the ground
When possible always use the EZ Kart®
Always stand downhill of the mini trencher and behind the machine at all times
When working parallel to a slope ensure that the discharge chute is facing downhill
Respect a safety zone of 10 meters radius. If people or animals enter the safety zone stop work
Do not operate alone
Hold the trencher firmly with both hands and keep firm footing
Switch the engine off prior to removing debris around the chain, discharge chute areas or the trench and
wear gloves
Switch the engine off as soon as stopping trenching
Avoid wet or icy ground
Do not operate in poor visibility
Always wear the recommended PPE

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3.1.4 Personal Protective Equipment
Wear eye protection EN166 1B
Wear suitably rated ear defenders EN352-1 SNR36DB
Wear steel toe-cap footwear EN20345 SB
Wear suitable work gloves EN420 and EN10819
In dry ground conditions wear a face mask EN149 FFP1 NR. If particularly dusty wear breathing equipment
In very stony ground condition the use of shin pads is recommended
3.1.5 Product limitations and restrictions
Do not use the GeoRipper® in extremely rocky ground, tarmac or concrete
Do not attempt to cut tree roots larger than 7cm diameter
Do not plunge the bar into the ground
Not suitable for cutting branches
3.1.6 Installation safety information
Switch engine off before doing any work on the machine
Read the instruction manual chapter 5 before assembly
Wear gloves when handling the chain
3.1.7 Safety information regarding the use
Do not operate for long periods of time
Do not use if the plastic / rubber stone guard is not present (Fig.1 item 5)
When possible always use the GeoRipper® mounted on the EZ Kart® to limit exposure to vibration
Do not operate if feeling tired or if under the influence of substances
3.1.8 Maintenance safety information
Switch engine off and wait for the chain to stop before doing any work on the machine
Read the instruction manual chapter 5 before assembly
Wear gloves when handling the chain
Read the manufacturer’s manual of the power head before starting maintenance on the machine
Always check that bolts are tight before using the machine
Keep the chain in good condition and check regularly for damage

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3.1.9 Safe Disposal
Ensure that all packaging is disposed of accordingly. The cardboard box can be recycled
Wear parts such as chains, sprockets and bars can be recycled under the metal parts recycling facility
At the end of its life, the power head can disposed of in the small engine recycling facility of your local center
3.2 Machinery Failure
3.2.1 Catastrophic Failure
During a three year period and an estimated total of over 10,000 kilometers of trenches
no catastrophic failure of the GeoRipper® has been reported.*
The GeoRipper® is well engineered and constructed using heavy duty components. The rotating parts of the machine
are the drive sprocket, the chain and the idler nose sprocket. The drive sprocket is secured with an M8 bolt torqued
at 24Nm with thread lock fluid compound. The nose idler sprocket is enclosed within two heavy gauge metal plates
secured with x3 M8 high tensile screws torqued up to 33Nm with thread lock fluid. However, check every time
before use that these bolts are tight. The chain is a heavy duty type chain with an average tensile strength of 36.2kN.
It must be checked regularly for signs of damage and wear. The chain needs replacing regularly as the cutting teeth
will wear out. As a result, a relatively new chain is always in use on the trencher making it unlikely for the chain to
suffer a catastrophic failure. * Data collated from worldwide sales of GeoRipper® chains
3.2.2 Progressive Failure or wear parts
Check regularly and replace all wear parts including the chain, drive and idler sprockets, the bar, nose bearing and
retainer plates.
3.3 Potential Health Consequences
Failing to wear the recommended PPE my cause serious injury. Hand Arm Vibration syndrome HAVs may result after
long periods using the GeoRipper®. To reduce the risk of HAVs always use the mini trencher mounted on its EZ Kart®
or limit the daily usage per operator. Individuals with poor circulation who are exposed to excessive vibration may
experience injury to blood vessels or the nervous system. Vibration may cause the following symptoms to occur in
the fingers, hands or wrists: Falling asleep (numbness), tingling, pain, stabbing sensation, alteration of skin colour or
of the skin. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical assistance.

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4Assembly Instructions
4.1 Assembly of the GeoRipper® Mini Trencher
Read the entire notice carefully before starting the assembly and make sure to have sufficient space to do so. Ensure
that all the items are present and correct and if anything is missing from your box please contact Four Ashes
Machinery Ltd. by emailing [email protected]
4.1.1 Content
Inside your GeoRipper® box you will find the following:
1. GeoRipper® unit
2. Trenching bar
3. Two chains
4. Spare drive belt and idle nose bearing
5. Tools including 18mm combination spanner and machine universal tool (model dependent)
4.1.2 Assemble the GeoRipper® bar and chain
It is important to mount the chain in the correct direction. The chain is directional and
will wear prematurely if mounted incorrectly!
Do not over-tension the chain and leave a minimum of 1” or 25mm slack at mid-point.
Wear gloves when handling the chain
Fig.6
1. Remove the two bolts, spring washers and retaining plate (Fig.6)

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Fig.7
2. Place the chain over the bar and nose sprocket (Fig.7)
Fig.9
Fig.8
3. Check that the chain is facing in the right direction (Fig.8 and Fig.9) with the curved cutting edge of the
teeth pointing towards the nose of the bar
Fig.10
4. Install the chain over the bar and loop over the drive sprocket (Fig.10)
5. Double check the chain is facing in the right direction (Fig.8). A pictogram is also showing on the box for
the chains