Hillco 2970H User manual

Model 2970H
Leveling System
Operator Manual
(D-082301DJC01C)
Hillco Technologies, Inc. 107 1st Ave. Nezperce, Idaho 83543-5062 Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.hillcotechnologies.com

1
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
Serial Number
Location
Write the serial number and the model number of the Leveling System and combine on the
lines provided. If needed, give these numbers to your dealer when you need parts or
information for your machine.
LEVELING SYSTEM MODEL NUMBER 2970H
LEVELING SYSTEM SERIAL NUMBER 2970 -
COMBINE MODEL NUMBER STS
COMBINE SERIAL NUMBER

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
2000 Series Operator’s Manual
Model 2970 Leveling Systems
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION............................................................................................................ 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................................... 2
WARRANTY POLICY........................................................................................................................ 3
SAFETY ......................................................................................................................................... 5
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL ..................................................................................................5
OPERATION SAFETY ........................................................................................................6
HYDRAULIC SAFETY.........................................................................................................6
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE SAFETY ......................................................................6
HIGHWAY OPERATION AND TRANSPORT SAFETY.......................................................7
SAFETY LABELS................................................................................................................7
SAFETY LABEL SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................9
OPERATION, SETUP, AND MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................... 10
ELECTRICAL OPERATION ..............................................................................................10
ELECTRICAL SETTINGS .................................................................................................11
LIMIT SWITCHES ..........................................................................................................11
MECHANICAL ADJUSTMENTS .......................................................................................11
WIDTH – Slope MODEL 2970H TREAD Restrictions.....................................................11
TIRE SELECTION – Slope Restrictions .........................................................................12
HEADER AND COMBINE CONNECTION .....................................................................12
REAR AXLE WEIGHTING..............................................................................................13
REAR AXLE EXTENSION POSITIONING .....................................................................13
REAR AXLE TOE IN ......................................................................................................14
TRANSITION DRIVE CHAIN..........................................................................................14
LADDER.........................................................................................................................15
GENERAL SHIELDING ..................................................................................................15
HYDRAULIC SETTINGS...................................................................................................15
HYDRAULIC HOSES ........................................................................................................15
HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS ................................................................................................16
GREASE LOCATIONS......................................................................................................16
FASTENERS.....................................................................................................................18
TIRE INFLATION ..............................................................................................................21
2970H ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT SCHEMATIC (EARLY SERIAL NUMBER) ........................................22
2970H ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT SCHEMATIC (LATE SERIAL NUMBER)...........................................23
2970H HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT SCHEMATIC ...............................................................................24

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WARRANTY POLICY

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Thank you for choosing the Hillco 2000 Series Leveling System to compliment your farming
operation. This product has been designed and manufactured to meet the needs of a
discriminating buyer for increasing the performance of a combine.
Safe, efficient and trouble free use of your Hillco 2000 Series Leveling System requires that
you and anyone else who will be operating or maintaining the leveling system, read and
understand the safety, operation, and maintenance information contained in the Operator’s
Manual.
If extra copies of the operator’s manual are needed, contact Hillco at 1-800-937-2461 or
download it from Hillco Technologies’ website at www.hillcotechnologies.com.
HILLCO MODEL 2970H LEVELING SYSTEM
INTRODUCTION
This manual covers the Hillco 2000 Series Model 2970H Leveling System built by Hillco. Use
the Table of Contents as a guide when searching for specific information.
Keep this manual handy for frequent reference and to pass on to new operators or owners.
Call your Hillco dealer or Hillco if you need assistance or information at 1-800-937-2461.

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OPERATOR ORIENTATION – The directions left, right, front, and rear, as mentioned
throughout this manual, are as seen from the combine operator’s seat and facing in the
direction of forward travel.
SAFETY
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
This Safety Alert symbol means
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
The Safety Alert symbol identifies important safety messages on the
Hillco 2000 Series Leveling System and in the manual. When you see
this symbol, be alert to the possibility of personal injury or death.
Follow the instructions in the safety message.
SIGNAL WORDS
Note the use of the signal words DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION with the safety
messages. The appropriate signal word for each message has been selected using the
following guidelines:
DANGER - An immediate and specific hazard which WILL result in severe personal injury or
death if the proper precautions are not taken.

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WARNING - A specific hazard or unsafe practice which COULD result in severe personal
injury or death if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION - Unsafe practices which COULD result in personal injury if proper practices are
not taken, or as a reminder of good safety practices.
OPERATION SAFETY
1. Read and understand the Operator’s Manual and all safety labels before operating the
leveling system.
2. Make sure that all controls are in the manual position before starting the combine.
3. Clear the area of all bystanders, especially children, before starting the leveling system
and during operation.
4. Make sure all safety shields are in place before operating the combine. Never operate
the machine with the shields removed.
5. Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from all moving and/or rotating parts.
6. Stay seated in the cab during operation.
7. Operate controls only when sitting in the seat of the combine.
8. To avoid engine damage, do not run the machine for extended periods of time when it is
in the leveled over position.
9. Always travel at a safe speed. Use caution when making turns or traversing ditches.
10.There are restrictions as to tread width and tire selection. Refer to “Tread Width
Restrictions” for important information on these restrictions.
11.The use of after-market grain tank extensions is prohibited from use on combines
equipped with the Model 2970H leveling system.
HYDRAULIC SAFETY
1. Do not search for high-pressure hydraulic leaks without
hand and face protection. A tiny, almost invisible leak can
penetrate skin, thereby requiring immediate medical
attention. Gangrene may set in, in as few as 3 hours!
2. Use cardboard or wood to detect leaks – never your
hands!
3. Double check that all is clear before operating hydraulics.
4. Maintain proper hydraulic fluid levels.
5. Ensure all fittings and hoses are in good repair.
6. Do not make any repairs to the leveling system hydraulic system including: cylinders,
valves, hydraulic hoses, adapters, pumps, manifolds, or reservoirs without first contacting
you authorized Hillco dealer. These hydraulic components stabilize the chassis of the
combine. Improper repair or replacement of these components could lead to uncontrolled
leveling of the combine’s chassis.
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE SAFETY
1. Review the Operator’s Manual and all safety items before servicing or maintaining the
leveling system.
2. Place the leveling system in the “Manual” mode (Auto/Manual Indicator not lit), stop the
combine engine, wait for any moving parts to stop, block the tires, the header, and the
cylinder areas before servicing, repairing, adjusting, or maintaining the leveling system.

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3. Hydraulic oil is under pressure. Use caution when dealing with the hydraulic system.
4. Keep hands, feet clothing and hair away from all moving and/or rotating parts.
5. Clear the area of bystanders, especially children, when carrying out any maintenance,
repairs or making any adjustments.
HIGHWAY OPERATION AND TRANSPORT SAFETY
1. Check with local authorities regarding combine transport on public roads. Obey all
applicable regulations and laws.
2. Check clearance elevations and widths of combine for travel near power lines, bridges,
trees, etc.
3. Make sure the Auto Leveling Indicator is in “Manual” mode (not lit) for all transport and
highway travel situations.
4. Always travel at a safe speed. Use caution when making corners or meeting traffic.
SAFETY LABELS
Familiarize yourself with the location of all safety labels. Read them carefully to understand
the safe operation of your machine.
“Read Operator’s Manual” Symbol
Decals, which display the “Read Operator’s Manual” symbol, are
intended to direct the operator to the Operator’s Manual for
further information regarding maintenance, adjustments and/or
procedures for particular areas of the leveling system. When a
decal displays this symbol refer to the Operator’s Manual for
further instructions.
TO APPLY NEW OR REPLACEMENT LABELS:
1. Make sure the label area is smooth by removing any debris such as dirt or old labels.
2. Wash the area with soap and water and then dry it thoroughly.
3. After the area has completely dried, peal the backing off the safety label and place it onto
the cleaned area.
4. Make sure all areas of the label have adhered to the machine by pressing down on the
entire face of the label, including the corners.

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SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS
11
5
4
2
#1
#6
#1
#4
#2
#2
#5
#4
#5 #2
#3 #3
#2
#3
#2
#3
#7
#2
#1
#4
#7

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SAFETY LABEL SPECIFICATIONS
Label #2
Part Number: LL20-100783
Locations: 6 (front and rear
of undercarriage and each
side of drop axle assembly)
Label #1
Part number: LL20-100787
Locations: 2 (left and right
side of combine above front
tires)
Label #3
Part number: LL20-10784
Locations: 2 (left and right
side of upper transition face
plate)
Label #4
Part number: LL20-100788
Locations: 3 (main cylinders
and above leveling manifold)
Label #6
Part number: LL20-100782
Locations: 1 (inside cab
window beyond console)
Label #5
Part number: LL20-100786
Locations: 1 (front of
electrical box)
These safety labels should be present and
legible at all times. If new labels are needed, or
you have any questions concerning safety,
please contact Hillco at 1-800-937-2461. Label #7
Part number: LL20-100785
Locations: 1 (ladder well)

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OPERATION, SETUP, AND MAINTENANCE
ELECTRICAL OPERATION
LEVELING SYSTEM CONTROLS
MANUAL LEFT / RIGHT LEVELING SWITCH
LEVEL LEFT: Push down on the left side of the Manual Left/Right Leveling Switch.
LEVEL RIGHT: Push down on the right side of the Manual Left/Right Leveling Switch.
AUTO/MANUAL LEVELING BUTTON
AUTO: Push the Auto/Manual Leveling Button once to light the Auto Leveling Indicator Light and engage
automatic leveling operation. The automatic leveling controller monitors changes in slope and corrects
chassis position to maintain a level chassis position. The Manual Left/Right Leveling Switch will override the
automatic leveling controller while the switch is depressed. Upon release of the switch, the leveling system will
return to automatic leveling mode.
MANUAL: Push the Auto/Manual Leveling Button once to enter the Manual Leveling mode (Auto Leveling
Indicator Light not lit). With the Auto Leveling Indicator Lamp not lit the Manual Left/Right leveling switch will
level the combine left and right. When the switch is released the combine chassis will maintain the current
chassis position.
HEADER TRIM SWITCH
The header trim switch is the four-position header control switch mounted in the combine’s SR control lever. It
is used to raise and lower the header as well as trim the header left and right.
TILT LEFT: Depress the left side of the switch to tilt the header counterclockwise.
TILT RIGHT: Depress the right side of the switch to tilt the header clockwise.
MAXIMUM LEVEL LAMP
The leveling system is equipped with a maximum level warning lamp. This lamp, located on the face of the
steering column, indicates when the machine has reached its maximum leveling capability. Important tire and
tread width restrictions apply to the use of combines equipped with the Model 2970H Leveling system that are
intended for use on slopes exceeding the maximum leveling capability. See the “Slope Restrictions” section of
this manual for important details of these restrictions.
Auto/Manual
Leveling Button
Manual Left/Right
Leveling Switch
Auto Leveling Indicator Light
Lit = Auto, Not Lit = Manual
Header Trim
Switch

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ELECTRICAL SETTINGS
LIMIT SWITCHES
The leveling system is equipped with left and right level limit switches that disable the
automatic leveling when the combine reaches its maximum leveling capability in either
direction. These switches are preset by the installer at either the maximum leveling capability
of the combine or in some cases at a lesser angle to provide for proper tire clearance. It is
important to note that in the event of a limit switch failure the combine may continue to level
to its maximum capability. Care should be taken to make sure tire clearances are adequate
in the maximum level position to prevent damage to the tire or chassis in the event that a limit
switch failure should occur. The operator should daily level the combine to its maximum level
position, with the bulk tank empty, using the manual leveling switch to insure the limit
switches are operational.
IMPORTANT: With certain tire selections mechanical cylinder stops can be
purchased from Hillco to prevent damage to the combines side panels
in the event a limit switch or leveling valve malfunctions.
To set the limit switches, first park the combine on level ground and block the tires. Then
raise the feeder spout and lock the feeder lift cylinder. Place the leveling system in the
Manual Leveling mode (Auto Leveling Indicator Light not lit). Using the Manual Left/Right
Leveling Switch, lean the combine to the left to maximum level of the cylinders or to the
maximum point that there is no sheet metal to tire interference. It may be a good practice
to level a small distance, stop and check for clearance issues before continuing. Next, turn
on the parking brake and shut down the machine. The limit switches are located on each
side of the control box near the main pivot pin. Align the limit switch actuator bracket so
that it is aligned with the left limit switch. Adjust the left limit switch actuator bolt one turn
past the point where you can hear the contacts on the limit switch snap. Repeat this
process for the right limit switch.
MECHANICAL ADJUSTMENTS
WIDTH – Slope MODEL 2970H TREAD Restrictions
The Model 2970H Leveling System is designed around a main undercarriage length of
114.5” or 122.5”. The 114.5” undercarriage is designed for use with dual tire
packages where 120-180” tread spacing is preferred for 30” rows. Use of the 114.5”
undercarriage with duals will limit the leveling capability of the combine from 27% to
23%. The 122.5” undercarriage was designed to move the dual tires outward and
allow for the maximum leveling capability of the combine or 27%. The final drives can
be mounted directly to the 114.5” and 122.5” undercarriages.

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On Model 2970H leveling systems the 145” tread width can be achieved by
mounting the final drives directly to the undercarriage and dishing the stock combine
single wheels inward on the 114.5” undercarriage. Check the tread width using a tape
measure to insure your machine is not operating on less than the minimum 145” tread
spacing.
The minimum allowable tread width for use on a Model 2970H leveling system is
145”. The 145” tread spacing is prohibited from use on slopes that exceed 27%
or the maximum leveling capability of the combine. Dual tires are required for
combines intended for use on slopes greater than 27%.
TIRE SELECTION – Slope Restrictions
Model 2970 Single Tires – Combines equipped with the Model 2970H Leveling
System may be equipped with 30.5L-32 single tires with a 16 ply rating, 35.5L-32 with
a 12 ply rating, 800/65R32, or 68x50-32 HF3 with a 16 ply rating provided the combine
is operated at or below the 27% maximum leveling capability of the leveling system.
Use of these tire selections is prohibited on slopes greater than 27%.
Model 2970H Dual Tires for Slopes Less than 27% - Combines equipped with the
Model 2970H Leveling System may be equipped with 20.8R-38 one star rating, and
18.4R-42 two star rating dual tires provided that the combine is operated at or below
the 27% maximum leveling capability of the leveling system. Use of these tire
selections is prohibited on slopes greater than 27%.
Model 2970H Dual Tires for Slopes Greater than 27% - Combines equipped with the
Model 2970H Leveling System must be equipped with 24.5-32 10 ply, 20.8-38 two star
rating, or 20.8R-42 two star rating dual tires if the combine is intended for use on
slopes exceeding 27% or the maximum leveling capability of the combine.
HEADER AND COMBINE CONNECTION
Refer to the John Deere Combine STS Operator’s Manual for instructions on
connecting the header to the combine.
Note: Some headers may require lengthening of the hydraulic hoses that couple from the
header to the combine to allow for maximum rotation of the header during the installation.
All John Deere headers require a HILLCO Header Kit to function properly during rotation of
the transition.

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REAR AXLE WEIGHTING
The HILLCO Model 2970 Leveling System is designed to transfer enough weight to the rear
axle of the combine for proper balance that no additional weight is needed. If the operator
determines that additional weight is needed on the rear axle to ensure optimal down hill
performance it can be accomplished by adding:
1) Calcium Chloride in Rear Tires
2) John Deere Rear Wheel Weights
Use caution when using individual turning brakes. Installation of a Hillco Leveling System
transfers additional weight to the rear axle of the combine. Excessive braking to turn can
damage your combine chassis.
The responsibility for making the final determination of appropriate
rear axle weighting lies with the operator.
When first operating the Model 2970 Leveling System in hillside conditions, begin operation
on gradual slopes and work up to more severe slopes only after you have determined that
rear axle weighting is appropriate for downhill maneuvers. The first indication of insufficient
rear axle weighting is sluggish or unresponsive steering while traveling down hill. This effect
will worsen if the operator decelerates. Make sure rear axle weighting is sufficient for safe
down hill maneuvers, under normal deceleration, in your most severe down hill conditions.
Use of grain tank extensions is strictly forbidden. Use of such extensions
voids both the Hillco and John Deere new equipment warranties.
REAR AXLE EXTENSION POSITIONING
The rear axle on the combine is designed so that the axle extensions may be bolted in two
different positions to adjust the rear height of the combine. The rear axle extension position
may need to be adjusted after the correct tires and header are installed on the combine. The
combine should sit level to two inches high in the rear. If it does not, then the axle extension
position will have to be adjusted and the tire size may have to be changed. Consult your
combine’s operator’s manual for more information on the proper stub axle position.

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REAR AXLE TOE IN
If the rear tire and wheel size changed after the proper sized rear tires were installed the toe
in should be checked. Consult your combine’s operator’s manual on the correct toe in for
your tire and wheel size.
TRANSITION DRIVE CHAIN
Check to see that the transition drive chain is in proper alignment and has proper tension.
Misalignment of these sprockets will cause premature wear of the sprockets and chain.
Chain tension is maintained with the tensioner that is bolted to the right side of the transition.
Tensioner adjustment can be found in the following paragraph.
CHAIN TENSIONER ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1
Adjust the tensioner to the correct degree of tension by first placing a wrench on the square
portion of the tensioner body and loosening the mounting bolt with a second wrench.
Step 2
Apply pressure to the tensioner body in the appropriate direction until the chain is properly
tensioned. (See Figure 1) Note that the tensioner is designed to deflect up to 30 degrees
either side of its normal position.
Step 3
While holding the tensioner body in position, torque the mounting bolt to 60 lb ft.
Step 4
Before starting the drive, check the nuts on the idler bolt for tightness.
Step 5
After the drive has been started, visually inspect the tensioner for alignment and proper
tensioning.
Apply pressure with
a wrench here in the
direction denoted by
the white arrow.
Figure 1

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LADDER
Run the ladder platform in the 45-degree position to maintain maximum header-to-driveline
clearance and tire clearance. The bottom bi-fold section of the ladder is held in the retracted
position with two gas-charged struts. If the ladder doesn’t retract properly then check the
tightness of all the bolts in the hinge positions and make sure that they are just snug. If all of
the bolts appear to be at the correct tightness and the ladder still won’t stay retracted then it
is possible that one of the gas-charged struts has failed.
GENERAL SHIELDING
Before operating the combine all shields must be in place and be in working condition.
Shield to tire clearance needs to be checked once the correct tires are installed on the
combine. Check to see if the clearance is correct by having someone watch the tire and
shields as the operator leans the combine to the far right and far left. Some tire selections
require limit switches to be set slightly early to allow enough tire clearance between the left
and right front side panels.
HYDRAULIC SETTINGS
Refer to the Hydraulic Safety section for precautions regarding the hydraulic system.
The Model 2970H Leveling System uses an auxiliary pump and single station manifold for its
leveling hydraulic requirements. It utilizes the combines original auxiliary hydraulic system
for lateral header tilt control. Consult your combine’s operator’s manual or contact your John
Deere dealer for diagnostic and maintenance support regarding the hydraulic system.
IMPORTANT: All adjustments on the hydraulic system are preset at the factory
for optimal leveling and header trim performance. DO NOT MAKE
ANY ADJUSTMENTS TO THESE SETTINGS WITHOUT FIRST
CONTACTING YOUR AUTHORIZED HILLCO DEALER.
HYDRAULIC HOSES
Inspect the hydraulic system for leaks, damaged hoses, improper routing, and loose fittings.
Hydraulic hoses that are not routed correctly could become worn from working against
abrasive edges or moving parts. If abrasions or holes do occur, the hydraulic hoses can only
be replaced, not repaired. Do not attempt repairs with tape or cements. High pressure
will burst such repairs and cause system failure and possible injury.
Hydraulic Hose Connections – When tightening loose hoses on the cylinders, pump, etc.,
always use one wrench to keep the hose from twisting and another wrench to tighten the

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union. Excessive twisting will shorten hose life and allow the fitting to loosen during
operation. Do not over-tighten fittings or adapters.
Refer to the John Deere Combine’s Operators Manual for information regarding hydraulic oil,
check intervals, and reservoir fluid levels. High speed leveling, low speed leveling and
header trim speeds are preset at the factory. If different speeds are desired please contact
your Hillco dealer.
HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS
IMPORTANT: Each leveling cylinder is equipped with a safety valve that is in place to
prevent unintentional leak down of the cylinder. These safety valves are
preset at the factory, and should not be adjusted.
DANGER: Do not make any repairs to the cylinders, disconnect valves or any
hoses connected to the cylinders, counterbalance valves, bulkhead mount or
manifold without first contacting your authorized Hillco dealer. These hydraulic
components stabilize the chassis of the combine. Improper repair or replacement of
these components could lead to uncontrolled leveling of the combine’s chassis.
GREASE LOCATIONS
Use John Deere 251H EP grease or equivalent NLGI No. 2 Multi-Purpose Lithium Grease.
Slave Cylinder
50 hrs.
2 Zerks

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Grease Locations (continued)
These Zerks Lubricate the Main
Pivot Pin, Master Cylinder Rod
and Base End, and the Base
End of the Levelin
g
C
y
linders
GREASE BULKHEAD:
Grease All Five Zerks
Every 50 hrs. of Operation
Left and Right Leveling
Cylinders Rod End
Grease Every 50 hrs

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FASTENERS
Check Bolt Tightness
• After the first 10 hours of operation
• Every season
The following bolts are torqued to special specifications because of the application in which
they are used.
Transmission Mount Bolts: John Deere Torque specifications
Final Drive Housing Bolts: John Deere Torque specifications
Drive Wheel Hub Bolts: John Deere Torque specifications
Steering Wheel Hub Bolts: John Deere Torque specifications
Rear Axle Extension Bolts: John Deere Torque Specifications
Unloading Auger Drive Shaft Locknut: John Deere Torque Specifications
For all other leveling system fasteners use the bolt torque charts located on the following pages.
IMPORTANT: Consult your John Deere 9650 & 9750 STS operator’s manual to verify that correct
bolts and spacers are used for the wheel application.

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Torque specifications for certain fasteners may vary from this
chart. Do not use any of the bolt torque specifications listed in
this chart without first reading the “Fasteners” section in this
manual.