Howard ROTAVATOR 400 User manual

ROTAVATOR 400
R 400
Operating Instructions

Rotavator 400
14
CONTENTS
Safety precautions........................................ 14-18
Specification & description ........................... 19-20
New maschine ....................................................21
Attaching Rotavator to the tractor.......................21
Depth control ......................................................21
Rotors.................................................................22
Lubrication + maintenance .................................22
Operating instructions ........................................23
Operational advice .............................................24
Introduction
Howard would like to thank you for purchasing this Rotavator and offer their support and assistance
throughout its productive life.
This Rotavator has been designed and manufactured as a tractor driven, ground cultivator - no other
use is intended.
Please read and understand this manual before operating the Rotavator.
Warranty
Thewarrantyapplicabletoyourmachineisdetailedonseparatedocumentationwhichshouldaccompany
this manual. If this is missing, please contact your dealer.
Serial Number
The Serial Number and Model are stamped on the Identification Plate attached to your Rotavator.
For future reference record this information below. Always quote them when ordering spare parts.
MODEL ________________
SERIAL No. ________________________
Date Purchased: ________________

Rotavator 400
15
ENGLISH
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS !
!PLEASE READ. IT MAY SAVE A LIFE.
SAFETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Thesafetyof operators and any otherconnectedpersonnel
is a major component of; machine design, manufacture,
retailing, commissioning, operation and maintenance.
Howard have designed and manufactured this Rotavator
with as many safety features as possible. The retailer’s
responsibility is to ensure you have selected the correct
Rotavator for your tractor/application and to commission
this machine.
Your responsibilities as owner or operator are to ensure
thesafetyofanypersonnel in connection with;theoperation,
transport, maintenance or storage of this Rotavator. Be
awareofyourresponsibilities and carrythemout. Theowner
or an appropriately designated officer, if the owner is a
company or corporation, is responsible for all safety issues
related to this Rotavator.
Themostimportantsafety device attached to this Rotavator
is a Safety Conscious Operator whose training and
experience must include:
• Correct and complete installation and commissioning of
the machine to ensure safe and reliable operation in the
intended application.
• Training in safety issues, operation and maintenance of
this machine in its application prior to beginning work.
This training is to be reviewed or repeated annually.
• Being aware of their environment to the extent that
unforeseen safety issues that may arise are dealt with to
ensure the safety of all personnel (including operators,
maintenance personnel and bystanders).
Fig. 1
This is the SAFETY ALERT symbol and means:
ATTENTION ! SAFETY ISSUE !
Failure to comply with the given instruction could result in
severe injury or death.
If you have questions not answered in this manual please
contact your dealer or distributor.
IF YOU REQUIRE MORE COPIES OF THIS MA-
NUAL PLEASE CONTACT YOUR DEALER.
ALTERNATIVELY YOUARE WELCOME TO COPY
AND DISTRIBUTE THIS MANUAL TO THE
OPERATORSAND MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL.
SAFETY DECAL CARE
• Keepsafetydecalscleanandlegibleatalltimes. Replace
any missing safety decals or any that have become
illegible. Safetydecalscanbepurchasedfromyoudealer
or distributor.
• Ifany part is replaced thatsupportsa safety decal ensure
that a decal is affixed to the replacement part.
ATTACHING SAFETY DECALS
1.Clean and dry the area where the decal is to be affixed.
Warm soapy water is the best as some cleaning agents
leave an oily film which may prevent the decal adhering.
2.Remove/foldback a small portion ofthebacking and affix
the exposed portion of the decal in the desired position.
3.Peel back the remaining backing paper from under the
decal and smooth down the decal with a rag, working
any bubbles towards the edge of the decal.
4.Any bubbles that remain trapped can be pierced with a
pin and smoothed down.
DANGER!
OBJECTS
PROJECTION.
WARNING!: READ
CAREFULLY THE
INSTRUCTIONS.
BEFORE HANDLING OR
REPAIRING THE MACHINE
REMOVE THE TRACTOR
IGNITION KEY
STAY AT LEAST AT A
DISTANCE OF 4 METERS
WHEN THE ROTAVATOR IS
RUNNING.
DO NOT STAY ON THE
ROTAVATOR WHEN
TRANSPORTING
NEITHER WORKING
THE DRIVE IS BY A
PTO FROM A 540
TPM TRACTOR
PTO
LIFTING
POINT
1 65432
18
7
6
5
4
32
ATTENTION! MAY BE HOT! MAINTAIN HANDS AND FEET AWAY WHEN
ROTAVATOR IS WORKING
87

Rotavator 400
16
AT ALL TIMES
• Use the Rotavator only for the purpose for which it has
been designed, and in accordance with the instructions
in this operators manual.
• Ensure that only responsible, properly instructed people
operate this machinery. Inexperienced operators will
require training, followed initially by careful supervision.
• Children are not permitted to operate this machinery.
• Keep children well clear and appropriately supervised
when connecting/disconnecting the tractor, operating or
maintaining this machinery.
• Donotwearclothesthatare loose fitting or with drawstring
ties which can catch in moving parts.
• Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
Boots are a minimum, however if your tractor is not fitted
with a controlled environment cab you may also need
protection from prolonged exposure either to noise, dust
or sunlight.
• Interpret ‘Left’ and ‘Right’ as if seated in the operators
seat and facing forward.
BEFORE OPERATION
• Read and understand this manual.
• The tractor to be connected to the Rotavator:
- Must be the tractor that the Rotavator has been
commissioned to operate with. Check that it has been
correctly maintained and has not been re-configured
(for example front weights removed etc) which may
reduce stability and control.
- Consult the Tractor Manufacturers Manual for
instructionson mounting implements andsafe working
methods.
- Isrecommendedto be fitted with a RollOverProtection
System (ROPS).
- Must be one the operator is familiar with.
• Priorto starting the tractor ensurethePTOisdisengaged
and the tractor is in neutral.
• Do not allow anyone to stand between the tractor and
Rotavator while backing the tractor up to attach it.
- Quick hitch systems are recommended for both Safety
and convenience.
- Before attempting to connect the universal drive shaft
to the tractor, lower the Rotavator to the ground, stop
the tractor, apply the park brake and remove the key.
• Visually inspect the Rotavator and check:
- Hitch pins and drive shaft are secure.
- No components are excessively worn, cracked or
otherwise defective and all bolts are tight.
- Guards, covers, warning labels and safety devices are
all correctly fitted and operative.
- Maintenance as per schedule has been carried out.
- No tools or other unsecured items have been left on
the Rotavator.
• Practice operation of the tractor and Rotavator
combination.
- Take sufficient time to become completely familiar with
all controls, particularly those required to bring both
tractor and Rotavator to an emergency stop if so
required.
- Progressslowlyinitiallyandcheckstability,steeringand
braking are satisfactory.
• Ensure the work area is clear, especially of children or
animals.
• Inspect the work area for hidden obstructions which may
constitute a hazard.
DURING OPERATION
• Ensure the work area is clear, especially of children or
animals.
• Do not attempt to start the tractor or engage the PTO
until correctly seated in the driver’s seat.
• Never leave the tractor running unattended.
• Do not allow passengers on the Rotavator. [Or on the
tractor unless approved seating is available.]
• Never attempt to make adjustments or perform
maintenance functions while the Rotavator is operating.
• Observe all safe driving procedures:
- Reduce speed when working on sloping ground or
during sharp turns.
- Donotattempttoworkonsteeplyslopinggroundwhere
there is a risk of the tractor overturning.
- Do not attempt to work near the edge of drop-offs or
banks.
- Avoid sudden starts and stops.
• After striking an obstacle, stop the tractor and implement
and inspect it for damage. Repair as necessary before
continuing.
• Disengage the PTO when transporting the implement or
when not in use.
• When halting operation, even temporarily, lower the
Rotavator to the ground, stop the tractor, apply the park
brake and remove the key.
• Allow the Rotavator sufficient time to cool down before
performing any maintenance, or changing gears in the
Selectaspeed gearbox. [Oil and other transmission
components may be hot enough to inflict burns.]
• Note:
- By virtue of its mode of operation it is not possible to
totally enclose a Rotavator with guards.
- Contact with the blades while operating can result in
severe injury or death.
- Do not allow anybody (operators, maintenance
personnel,bystandersorespeciallychildren)anywhere
nearthebladeswhilsttheimplement is operating. Note
that children will often be attracted to placing objects
into the blades if you leave it running - this machine is
not a toy.
- Be aware that Rotavator blades will not only cut, but
drag limbs etc. into further danger.
- Ensure thatall shielding is in place before operating. If
guardsareremovedformaintenancework,ensurethey
are replaced correctly upon completion. Repair or
replace any damaged guards.
- NEVER place hands or feet under the Rotavator, nor
endeavour to make any repairs or adjustments while
the blades are rotating; they are capable of inflicting
serious injury.
- NEVERtouchthebladesorattempttofreeanyjammed
obstacle while the tractor engine is running.The clutch
may be slipping and removal of any obstruction may
allow the blades to rotate, the result possibly being
serious injury.

Rotavator 400
17
ENGLISH
FOLLOWING OPERATION
• Visually inspect the Rotavator and check:
- All bolts are tight.
- That no components are excessively worn, cracked,
damaged or otherwise defective.
• Note and organise any maintenance required.
• Allow the Rotavator sufficient time to cool down before
performing any maintenance. The gearboxes, lubricant
and other transmission components may be hot enough
to inflict burns.
• Refer to TRANSPORT SAFETYand STORAGE SAFETY
for issues related to travel to/from operation and
disconnection of the Rotavator from the tractor.
STORAGE SAFETY
• When unhitching the Rotavator and before leaving the
tractortodisconnect the universal drive shaft andremove
hitch pins:
- Check that the PTO drive has been disengaged.
- Stop the tractor, apply the park brake and remove the
key.
• Store the Rotavator away from human activity and in
particular do not permit children to play around, or on,
stored equipment.
• Store the Rotavator in a dry level area and ensure
parkstands and wheels/roller are securely positioned to
preventittipping,fallingoverorrollingontoanypersonnel
(particularly children).
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
• Maintain the Rotavator as detailed in the given schedule
and check for any damage after use. Poor maintenance
is an invitation to trouble.
• Ensure that all shielding is correctly in place when
maintenance is completed. Repair or replace any
damaged guards. Warning or instruction decals are to
be kept in a readable condition; unreadable decals must
be replaced.
• NEVER place hands or feet under the Rotavator nor
endeavourto make any repairsor adjustments, while the
blades are rotating; they are capable of inflicting serious
injury.
• If working on the implement whilst it is raised on the
tractor’s three-point linkage, ensure:
- That the tractor is turned off and the ignition key is re-
moved to prevent accidental starting.
- The park brake is engaged and the wheels chocked to
prevent the tractor moving.
- The PTO drive is disengaged.
- The Rotavator is properly supported by blocks or
stands. DO NOT rely on the tractor’s hydraulic system
to support the implement.
• Modificationsorfitmentofnongenuine replacement parts.
- If the equipment is modified in any way from the origi-
naldesign,the manufacturer will not acceptanyliability
for any injury or warranty as a result of their use or
attempted fitment.
• Fasteners.
- Fit only the correct replacement fasteners and tighten
fasteners to the torque specified in the manual.
Incorrect(tooweak)fastenersmaybreakwhentorqued
to the required setting or, if too strong, may induce
failures in other components.
• Followsafe workshop practices during anymaintenance:
- Keep working area clean, dry and in particular free of
oil spills.
- Ensure the workshop is adequately ventilated. Do not
run the tractor engine inside a closed building. The
exhaustfumescanreducementalalertnessinitiallyand
will progressively cause death by asphyxiation.
- Use tools, lifting or jacking equipment suitably capable
of the intended task.
- Ensure electrical equipment is safe to use before
operating.
- A fire extinguisher and first aid kit should be readily
accessible during maintenance.
- Tools, parts and other service equipment must be re-
movedtoappropriatestorage locations prior to any test
running.
- Do not wear baggy, ill-fitting or frayed clothing when
working around transmission components.
- Wear suitable gloves when handling or working with
sharpened cutting elements.
- Ensure bystanders, especially small children, are kept
clear during maintenance or while making any
adjustments.
• Hydraulic fluid can be dangerous.
- When disconnecting any hydraulic fluid line, shut off
thehydraulicsupplyand relieve the hydraulic pressure.
- Never use hands to locate hydraulic fluid leaks.
Escaping hydraulic fluid is capable of cutting and
penetrating skin. Use a small piece of cardboard or
wood.
- Minor cuts are susceptible to infection from hydraulic
fluid. Gangrene can result. If injured by escaping
hydraulic fluid or you suspect you have been infected,
seek medical treatment immediately.
TRANSPORT SAFETY
• When transporting the implement on a tractor on public
roads ensure that you comply with the relevant
regulations.
- Class of roads permitted for travel may be restricted.
- Transport may restricted to daylight or, off peak traffic
hours.
- Signs indicating width may be required.
- Lights indicating vehicle width if transported within the
hours of darkness may be required.
Ifindoubt,contactyourgovernment department responsible
for road transport.
• Secure the Rotavator for transport.
- Disengage the PTO when transporting.
- Ensure all hitch pins are correctly fitted with retaining
pins.
- Mechanically secure hydraulic cylinders to prevent
cylinders creeping.
• Observe the tractor manufacturers regulations and
recommendations - specifically those relating to:
- Maximum transport loads.
- Maximum speed.
• Passengers

Rotavator 400
18
- Do not allow passengers to ride on the tractor unless a
specific seat is provided.
- Do not allow anyone to ride on the implement when it
is being transported.
• Consider other road users.
- Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic and peak traffic
periods.
- Be a safe and courteous driver. Give way to oncoming
traffic in all situations, including narrow bridges,
intersections etc.
• Adopt safe driving practices:
- Lock tractor brake pedals together. Never use
independent breaking at transport speeds.
- Drive at a safe speed to ensure control and ability to
stop in an emergency. Ensure the additional weight of
the Rotavator on the linkage does not compromise
steering and braking - for example front weights or
repairs to the brakes may be required if the tractor is
not safe to drive.
- Reduce speed during turns. Tractors have not been
designed for fast cornering.
- Use engine braking when going down hills - do not
coast.
- Do not drink alcohol and drive.
• Watch for obstructions, particularly if over-width.
• Observe any load ratings applicable on bridges.
IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDS
• Owners and operators must be prepared to assess their;
equipment, operators, maintenance procedures and
applications to identify safety hazards.
• Appropriate methods to reduce the hazards identified
must then be applied.
!Fit all safety guards before operating. Operation is not permitted without safety guards
fitted. These are not fitted at the factory due to freight limitations.
SAFETY GUARDS
MACHINE SUITABILITY TO APPLICATION
Rotavators have been designed and manufactured as a
tractor driven, ground cultivator - no other use is intended.
However over the years some models have been adapted
for new uses, such as road-base preparation and semi-
industrial mixing operations.
• Beforebeginningwork it is necessary to assesstheeffect
of the machine on the safety of both the operator and
any potential bystanders. It is reccomended that you
contact the manufacturer or distributor for assistance in
this area.
AUTHORISED OPERATORS & TRAINING
Ifyouareanemployer,donotassumeanoperatoristrained
for use of this equipment, (you would not let an unlicensed
driver borrow your car !).
• Ask to see licences if applicable, and record numbers
and validity dates.
• Request details of previous experience, in writing and
check them out if appropriate and ensure such records
are retained.
• Devise a suitable training course for operators if
appropriate, and ensure records of their completion are
retained.
MAINTENANCE RECORDS
Recommended maintenance is detailed in the Lubrication
& Maintenance section. Failure to follow these may
jeopardise safety as well as economic operation.
Records of periodic maintenance are important as they
detail when and who carried out the last maintenance and
inspection. Appropriate checklists should include
maintenance as detailed and in particular the following
safety aspects:
- SAFETY DECALS AFFIXED & LEGIBLE.
- GUARDING - All fitted and secure.
- CRITICAL FASTENERS SECURE
74 966844700R
74 966846600R
080-130-71000106383
140-165-71000106388
180-205-74966846900 74 966846712 = 120 mm
74 966846720 = 200 mm 080-140-71000106383
155-180-71000106388
190-205-74966846900
74 966846600R
74 966844600R
working width A - 120 mm. B - 200 mm.
080 0 0
090 2 0
100 2 0
115 2 0
130 3 0
140 4 0
155 2 2
165 2 2
180 2 2
190 4 2
205 4 2

Rotavator 400
19
ENGLISH
!
Minimum overlap in straight position
NEVER
- Touch any moving parts of the Rotavator or parts
which may be hot from opertaion.
Check oil levels whilst the Rotavator is running.
- Carry out adjustments or repairs to a mounted
Rotavator unless the tractor engine is stopped and
the Rotavator firmly supported or lowered to the
ground.
- Leave the tractor seat unless the Rotavator is
lowered, the pto drive disengaged, the gear shift in
neutral, the brake applied, the engine stopped and
the ignition key removed
BE A SAFE OPERATOR BY THINKING –
BEFORE ACTING
PTO DRIVE SHAFT GUARDS
HOWARDPRODUCTS are supplied with non-rotatingPTO
Drive Shaft which must be correctly fifted and well
maintained.
Before and after each use PTO driven implements should
be examined to ensure the Drive Shaft rotates freely in the
guards,theguardsareundamaged,securely fifted, correctly
seated on the shaft grooves and the restraining chains
attached to the tractor and implement.
Should the guards be broken, damaged or badly fitted the
implement must no be used damaged parts habe been
replaced and/or bad fitting corrected.
Alwaysensure the guard tubes donotseparate at tthe PTO
Drive Shaft’s longest working or transport lengh, or at it’s
shortest.
Avoiddamageto guards when the PTODriveShaftisbeing
connected or disconnected from the tractor by resting it on
a suport.
Never allow PTO Drive Shaft Guards to fall into the
implement or drop to the ground: damage will almost
certainly occur.
Always ensure the sliding surfaces of the guard tubes are
clean and the guard bearings lubricated.
When replacing worn or damaged sections of the Guard,
use special tools available from the makers.
Always follow the fitting, lubrication and maintenance
instructions supplied by the makers of the PTO Drive Shaft
Guard.
UNLESS CORRECTLY GUARDED
PTO DRIVE SHAFTS CAN KILL

Rotavator 400
20
Model Working Transport Speed Weight Number of blades
width cm width cm rpm kg Rotavator Rotacadet
R400B-080M 80 102 240 18 - 25-65
R400B-090M 90 112 255 21 - 30-65
R400B-100M 100 122 275 24 - 30-65
R400B-115M 115 137 295 27 - 35-65
R400B-130M 130 152 310 30 - 40-65
R400B-140M 140 162 220 325 33 - 40-65
R400B-155M 155 177 340 36 - 45-65
R400B-165M 165 187 355 39 - 45-65
R400B-180M 180 202 375 42 40 45-65
R400B-190M 190 212 390 45 - 50-65
R400B-205M 205 227 405 - 44 50-65
R400B-130S 130 152 325 30 - 40-65
R400B-140S 140 162 340 33 - 40-65
R400B-155S 155 177 169, 201, 355 36 - 40-65
R400B-165S 165 187 239, 285 370 39 - 45-65
R400B-180S 180 202 390 42 40 45-65
R400B-190S 190 212 405 45 - 50-65
R400B-205S 205 227 420 - 44 50-65
Model Working Transport Speed Weight Number of blades
width cm width cm rpm kg Rotavator Rotacadet
R400S-080M 80 102 245 18 - 25-75
R400S-090M 90 112 260 21 - 30-75
R400S-100M 100 122 280 24 - 30-75
R400S-115M 115 137 300 27 - 35-75
R400S-130M 130 152 315 30 - 40-75
R400S-140M 140 162 220 330 33 - 40-75
R400S-155M 155 177 345 36 - 45-75
R400S-165M 165 187 360 39 - 45-75
R400S-180M 180 202 380 42 40 45-75
R400S-190M 190 212 395 45 - 50-75
R400S-205M 205 227 410 48 44 50-75
R400S-130S 130 152 330 30 - 40-75
R400S-140S 140 162 345 33 - 40-75
R400S-155S 155 177 169, 201, 360 36 - 40-75
R400S-165S 165 187 239, 285 375 39 - 45-75
R400S-180S 180 202 395 42 40 45-75
R400S-190S 190 212 410 45 - 50-75
R400S-205S 205 227 425 48 44 50-75
ROTAVATOR 400 B. Chain side drive
ROTAVATOR 400 S. Gear side drive
tractor
engine
HP
tractor
engine
HP

Rotavator 400
21
ENGLISH
Fig. 1
G
D
C
H
AB
F
E
DESCRIPTION
Fig. 1 indicates assemblies refered to in the
text of this manual which are named bellow:
A: PTO drive shaft
B: Gerabox
C: Side drive
D: Rotor
E: Hull
F: Top mast
G: Frame
H: Trailing board
I: Depth control skids
R400 are designed for 25 to 75 HP tractors with cat I and
II linkage. The drive is by a PTO shaft from a 540 tpm .The
gearboxissinglespeed or4speeds.The jackshaft transmit
the power from the gearbox via the side chain or via the
side gear train. An overload clutch provides protection for
the transmission.
The normal tillage depth of 7 to 22 cm is regulated by the
depth control skids. Rotavator are suitable for primary and
secondary tillage, weed control and incorporating of mate-
rial into most soil types..

Rotavator 400
22
!
NEW MACHINE
PTO shaft
For transport purposes, the PTO shaft is dismantled and
must be refitted.
Lubrication and general
With the machine standing level ensure the following
preparatory
work has been done:
1.The gearcase filled to the level plug (A) (fig. 2) Capacity:
2l. Use SAE 90 oil.
2.The gearbox filled up to the level mark in the inside rod
(A) (fig. 3). Capacity 1,5 l. (R400B-M, R400S-M) and
3,5 l (R400B-S, R400S-S). Use SAE 90 oil.
3.All oil and greasepointsasindicatedonp.22(Lubrication)
4.All nuts and bolts tightened. (Re-tighten after first hour’s
work)
SERIOUS DAMAGE CAN RESULT
FROM FAILURE TO CARRY OUT THE
ABOVE PROCEDURES
Fig. 4 Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 2 Fig. 3
!
ATTACHING THE ROTAVATOR TO THE
TRACTOR
All models have dual mounting position, i.e. central or off-
settotheright. Offset mounting is achieved by repositioning
the lower link mounting brackets. (fig.4)
ThePTO driveshaft must be set to a safeworking length to
ensure the male shaft does not “bottom“ or separate from
the female tube under all conditions of use and transport.
To determine the correct mounting position: with the
Rotavator on a firm level surface the Depth Control
equipment should be adjusted until the gearbox input shaft
is horizontal (fig.5). Position the tractor at a distance from
the Rotavator to give 150 mm (6“) minimum engagement
of the male half of the PTO drive shaft in the female tube
when connected to the tractor. This establishes the safe
workinglength of PTOdrive shaft for connectiontothe trac-
tor.
Position the tractor lower link ball joints in line with the
mounting pins. Connect the tractor lower links. Fit the trac-
tor upper link and secure.Attach the PTO dirve shaft to the
pressure plate by the studs and tighten the nuts.Attach the
PTO drive shaft guard chains to the tractor and Rotavator.
Attach stabilizer bar or check chains to limit sway to 50 mm
(2”). Adjust tractor linkage to level Rotavator laterally and
longitudinally (fig. 5 and 6). Before engaging the tractor
PTO, lift the Rotavator on the hydraulic lift linkage until the
PTO dirve shaft attains an angle of 40 º and set the limit
stop on the hydraulic lift control quadrant. (fig. 5)
ATTENTION! : THE PTO DRIVE SHAFT
ANGLE MUST NEVER EXCEED 40º.
Finally check that during transport and use the PTO drive
shaft does not “bottom“ or separte and that the maximum
angle of 40 º is not exceeded. Should it not be possible to
obtain the aforementioned setting with your tractor, SEEK
ADVICE, it may be necessary to reduce the length of the
PTO drive shaft by cutting.
Depth control
Fig. 7 illustrates how to adjust the depth control skids.

Rotavator 400
23
ENGLISH
!
Fig. 9
Fig. 8 X
X
Fig. 10
S
S
A
DSD
A
ROTOR AND BLADES
R400Rotavatorsare fitted with original HOWARDBLADES
model9900/9901.See fig.8 where the left blade is marked
with X. Use always only ORIGINAL HOWARD BLADES
and HOWARD.blade bolts. As an option it can be fitted
wiht»speed» blades model 9953/54 ( Fig.9 )
Thebladesmustforma«scroll»patern(fig.10). Thisensure
that they enter the soil at regular intervals to even out the
load on the transmission.
When replacing worn blades, remove one blade and fit the
new one in its place before proceeding to the next. This will
ensure that the blade «scroll» patern is mantained.
Rotacadet
R400-CD is fitted with a special rotor with four blades per
flange type ROTACADET (9941/9942)
When replacing worn blades take special attention to the
following instructions in order to get the correct mounting
and maintain the «scroll patern·». (Fig. 11)
ATTENTION! IN ORDER TO OBTAIN A CORRECT MAINTENANCE AND FUNCTION OF
YOUR MACHINE IS IMPERATIVE TO FOLLOW THE ENCLOSED INSTRUCTIONS:
•(D) DAILY:
1.Lubricate with grease gun PTO spiders.
2.Lubricate with grease gun right hand stub axle bearing
•(S) WEEKLY:
1.Top up with oil SAE 90 The gearbox.
2.Top up with oil SAE 90 The side drive gearcase.
3.Tighten fasteners.
•(A) EVERY 500 WORKING HOURS:
1.Drain flush and fill with oil SAE 90 the gearbox.
Drainflushandfillwithoil SAE 90 the side drive gearcase.
LUBRICATION + MAINTENANCE
D = right
I = left
Fig. 11

Rotavator 400
24
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Operational information
By simple adjustments, R400 Rotavators, will produce a
range of tilths in most soil types to prepare the desired
seedbed suitable to seed-drill requirements. As a general
principle fine tilths are produced by a combination of slow
tractor speeds and a lowered trailing board (fig.14).
Converselycoarsetilthsareproducedbyfasttractorspeeds
and a raised trailing board (fig.15).
Intermediate grades of tilth from coarse to fine can be
obtained by:
• Adjusting the pressure on the trailing board which by
impact shatters the blade cut «clods».
• Raised the trailing board also deposit weeds and trash
on the surface to wither .
• With the trailing board completely pressured trush is
buried and have a levelling effect on the soil.
• Increasingordecreasingthetractorspeeditwillalsoafect
to the tilth.
• Changing the gears on the Selectatilth gearbox it gives
more posibilities of different tilths.
• High working speeds may also be used for shalow work
on previously borken ground.
Fig. 15
Fig. 14 Fig. 17
!
Fig. 16
Working instructions
Setthedepthcontrol skids to therequiredtillagedepth(page
21). Select a trial trailing board and a rotor speed (only for
R400B-S, R400S-S) to give the type of thilth required.
Engage the tractor Pto and Drive forward progressively
loweringthe Rotavator into theground.Proceed for a short
distanceandcheck whether the resultant tilth issatisfactory
and the tillage depth is uniform across the rotor width. If not
make the apropiate adjustments to procedure the required
tilth.
Selectatilth gearbox (R400B-S / R400S-S)
TheSelectatlith gearboxenablesrotorspeedsto be altered
by simply transposing or changing pairs of pick-off gears
(Fig.15/17).
Changing the gears. Important: STOP
THETRACTORANDDISENGAGE THE
PTO
A sparepair of gears is attached to the
inner face of the gearbox cover which
is removed by slackening the bolts
that fixed it
BEWARE: OIL & COMPONENTS MAY
BE HOT.
Be sure that gears in use must be
fitted with its protruding looking to the
shaft bearing.Also adopted this same
procedure when replacing the spare
pairof gears, fitted withthe protruding
looking to the working gear.
NEVER OPERATE THE ROTAVATOR
WITHOUT A SPARE PAIR OF GEARS
FITTED TO THE GEARBOX COVER.
ID
26 20 172
24 22 205
22 24 243
20 26 290

Rotavator 400
25
ENGLISH
!
Operational advice
Insufficient Depth Obtained
(a) adjust depth control equipement
(b) insufficient power : use lower tractor gear, reduce rotor speed
(c) chaincase on hard soil. Further passes required
(d) blades “trowelling” (rolling over ground), increase rotor speed or use lower tractor gear
(e) blades incorrectly mounted
Tilth too fine
(a) raise trailing boards
(b) reduce rotor speed
(c) use a faster tractor gear
(d) convert to 2-blade configuration
Tilth too coarse
(a) lower trailing boards
(b) increase rotor speed
(c) use lower tractor gear
(d) wait until soil is drier if sticks
(e) convert to 3-blade configuration
Blades “Ballinq up” with soil
(a) ground too sticky for working
(b) increase rotor speed
(c) raise trailing boards
(d) decrease tractor speed (e) convert to 2-blade configuration
Excessive Blade Wear
(a) reduce rotor speed
(b) replace loose or bent blades
Rotavator “Bumping” on Ground
(a) obstacles entangled in blades
(b) blades incorrectly mounted with no scroll effect or blades fitted with blunt edge leading or broken
blades
Obvious Points
(a) ROTAVATOR not level - cutting too deep on right side. Shorten right hand tractor lift rod or adjust
depth control wheel (b) Not overlapping - drive closer to last run
(c) Working on hillsides. Work up the slope if possible. If lateral work cannot be avoided, work from
the top to the bottom in order to limit any terracing effect.
Rotavating
1. When operating the Rotavator the most suitable practice is to work in “lands”
2. The ROTAVATED ground should always be to the right of the driver.
3. ROTAVATINGthefield headlands should not becarriedout until the “lands” havebeencompleted.
4. Always raise the Rotavator before turning.
THE ROTAVATOR SHOULD NEVER BE
LOWERED WHILST THE TRACTOR IS TURNING.