J&M nitro gro 6018 User manual

J&M Manufacturing Co, Inc
284 Railroad Street - P.O. Box 547 | Fort Recovery, OH 45846 | Ph: [phone] | Fax: [phone]
www.jm-inc.com
Rev. 1.23.2020
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
MODEL
Manual

2
To The Dealer ..............................................................................................4
Serial Number .............................................................................................5
Dealer Set-Up..............................................................................................5
General Information .......................................................................................6
Safety Rules................................................................................................7
Bolt Torque Chart ..........................................................................................8
Stud and Wheel Nut Torque Specications ..................................................................8
Specications..............................................................................................9
NitroGro Components ....................................................................................10
Down Pressure Relief Valve ................................................................................11
Toolbar Down Pressure Gauge.............................................................................11
Flow Monitors ............................................................................................11
Hydraulic Pump...........................................................................................11
Coulter ...................................................................................................12
Hand Wash Tank ..........................................................................................12
Strainer...................................................................................................13
Agitation Valve............................................................................................13
Counterbalance Valve .....................................................................................13
Pre-Operation Checklist ...................................................................................14
Hitching and Unhitching the Applicator ...................................................................15
Connecting the Hydraulic Hoses...........................................................................15
Fertilizer Pump............................................................................................15
Folding & Unfolding.......................................................................................16
Adjusting the Field Depth .................................................................................17
Down Pressure............................................................................................17
Transporting..............................................................................................17
Initial Operation ..........................................................................................17
Operation ................................................................................................18
Flow Monitor Set Up ......................................................................................19
Injectors - 20”Row Spacing................................................................................20
Injectors - 22”Row Spacing................................................................................22
Injectors - 30”Row Spacing................................................................................24
Knife - 20”Row Spacing ...................................................................................26
Knife - 22”Row Spacing ...................................................................................28
Knife - 30”Row Spacing ...................................................................................30
Quick Start for Raven 450 Controller .......................................................................32
Service ...................................................................................................33
Storage...................................................................................................34
Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................35
Decals ....................................................................................................36
Hitch .....................................................................................................38
Jack Assembly ............................................................................................38
Wing Rest.................................................................................................38
Hub and Spindle Assembly ................................................................................39
Gauge Wheel Assembly ...................................................................................40
Toolbar ...................................................................................................41
Inside Wing and Connections..............................................................................42
Middle Wing and Connections.............................................................................43
Table Of Contents

3
Table Of Contents
Outside Wing and Connections............................................................................44
Wing End and Wing Prop ..................................................................................45
Walking Dual Wheel Assembly.............................................................................46
Tank ......................................................................................................47
Tank Supports ............................................................................................48
Tank Strap Down..........................................................................................49
Hydraulic 150 ACE Pump and Manifold ....................................................................50
Hydraulic 750 ACE Pump and Manifold ....................................................................51
Raven Manifold ...........................................................................................52
Parallel Linkage for Toolbar Height Adjustment ............................................................53
Hand Wash Tank ..........................................................................................54
Check Valve...............................................................................................54
Slow Moving Vehicle Sign .................................................................................55
Coulter Mounts ...........................................................................................55
Coulter Depth Control.....................................................................................56
Coulter Hub Assembly ....................................................................................56
Coulter Injector Assembly .................................................................................57
GEP Coulter Assembly.....................................................................................58
GEP Coulter Knife Assembly ...............................................................................59
J&M ParaLinkage Coulter Rod Assembly ...................................................................60
J&M ParaLinkage Coulter Assembly........................................................................61
J&M ParaLinkage Coulter Knife Assembly ..................................................................62
J&M ParaLinkage Coulter with Spiked Closer Assembly .....................................................62
Flow Monitor .............................................................................................63
Hydraulic Pump Circuit Hydraulic Schematic ...............................................................64
Main Wing Fold Circuit Hydraulic Schematic ...............................................................65
Wing Flip Circuit Hydraulic Schematic .....................................................................66
Wing Flip Circuit Hydraulic Schematic .....................................................................67
Down Pressure Circuit Hydraulic Schematic ................................................................68
Down Pressure Circuit Hydraulic Schematic ................................................................69
Fertilizer Hose Routing ....................................................................................70
Raven SCS 450 Liquid Control System......................................................................72
ISO Liquid Control System.................................................................................73
Lights and Wiring .........................................................................................74

4
TO THE DEALER
Read manual instructions and safety rules. Make sure all items on the Dealer’s Pre-Delivery and Delivery Check Lists are completed
before releasing equipment to the owner.
The dealer must complete the Warranty Registration found on the Dealer Portal website located at dealer.jm-inc.com and return it to J&M
Mfg. Co., Inc. at the address indicated on the form. Warranty claims will be denied if the Warranty Registration has not been submitted.
EXPRESS WARRANTY:
J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. warrants against defects in construction or materials for a period of ONE year. We reserve the right to inspect and
decide whether material or construction was faulty or whether abuse or accident voids our guarantee.
Warranty service must be performed by a dealer or service center authorized by J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. to sell and/or service the type of
product involved, which will use only new or remanufactured parts or components furnished by J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. Warranty service will
be performed without charge to the purchaser for parts or labor based on the Warranty Labor Times schedule. Under no circumstance
will allowable labor times extend beyond the maximum hours indicated in the Warranty Labor Times schedule for each warranty
procedure. The purchaser will be responsible, however, for any service call and/or transportation of the product to and from the dealer
or service center’s place of business, for any premium charged for overtime labor requested by the purchaser, and for any service and/or
maintenance not directly related to any defect covered under the warranty. Costs associated with equipment rental, product down time,
or product disposal are not warrantable and will not be accepted under any circumstance.
Each warranty term begins on the date of product delivery to the purchaser. Under no circumstance will warranty be approved unless (i)
the product warranty registration card has been properly completed and submitted to the equipment manufacturer, and (ii) a warranty
authorization number has been issued by the equipment manufacturer. This Warranty is eective only if the warranty registration card is
returned within 30 days of purchase.
This warranty does not cover a component which fails, malfunctions or is damaged as a result of (i) improper modication or repair, (ii)
accident, abuse or improper use, (iii) improper or insucient maintenance, or (iv) normal wear or tear. This warranty does not cover
products that are previously owned and extends solely to the original purchaser of the product. Should the original purchaser sell or
otherwise transfer this product to a third party, this warranty does not transfer to the third party purchaser in any way. J&M Mfg. Co.,
Inc. makes no Warranty, express or implied, with respect to tires or other parts or accessories not manufactured by J&M Mfg. Co., Inc.
Warranties for these items, if any, are provided separately by their respective manufacturers.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
In no event shall J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. be liable for special, direct, incidental or consequential damages of any kind. The exclusive remedy
under this Warranty shall be repair or replacement of the defective component at J&M Mfg. Co., Inc’s. option. This is the entire agreement
between J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. and the Owner about warranty and no J&M Mfg. Co., Inc. employee or dealer is authorized to make any
additional warranty on behalf of J&M Mfg. Co., Inc.
The manufacturer reserves the right to make product design and material changes at any time without notice. They shall not incur any
obligation or liability to incorporate such changes and improvements in products previously sold to any customer, nor shall they be
obligated or liable for the replacement of previously sold products with products or parts incorporating such changes.
SERVICE:
The equipment you have purchased has been carefully manufactured to provide dependable and satisfactory use. Like all mechanical
products, it will require cleaning and maintenance. Lubricate the unit as specied. Observe all safety information in this manual and
safety signs on the equipment.
For service, your authorized J&M dealer has trained mechanics, genuine J&M service parts, and the necessary tools and equipment to
handle all your needs.
Use only genuine J&M service parts. Substitute parts may void warranty and may not meet standards required for safety and satisfactory
operation. Record the model number and serial number of your equipment in the spaces provided:
Model No: 6018 NitroGro Applicator Serial No: ________________________ Date of Purchase: ____________
Purchased From: ________________________________________________________________________________
Provide this information to your dealer to obtain correct repair parts.
To The Dealer

5
Serial Number______________________
Model Number_______6018__________
Standard practice when ordering parts or obtaining information from your dealer requires the serial number and model number. Have
numbers available before making contact.
• Run water into the tank, turn pump on, and check for leaks. Ensure agitation valve is open to allow pump to prime.
• If temperatures are below freezing, store NitroGro applicator in heated storage until it has been properly winterized. See “Storage”
on page 34 for winterizing instructions.
• See set-up instructions in the ACE pump manual.
• Turn on 5-section valves and check for ow to each row.
• Inspect the unit for loose nuts, bolts, and fasteners. Refer to“Bolt Torque Chart” on page 8 for torque values.
• Check all bearings and grease ttings for proper lubrication.
• Ensure that working parts move freely and function as intended.
• Check the hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic hoses, fertilizer ttings, and seals for leaks.
WARNING - Use cardboard or wood to check for leaks.
• Ensure lug nuts are tightened and all tires are inated properly. Refer to ”Stud and Wheel Nut Torque Specications” on page 8
for torque specications and “Operation” on page 18 for tire pressure information.
• Check that safety decals, reective decals, and the slow moving vehicle sign are properly located. Refer to ”Decals”on page 36 for
proper placement of decals.
• Ensure all lights function properly.
• Examine paint for defects and scratches.
Serial Number
Dealer Set-Up

6
General Information
TO THE OWNER:
The purpose of this manual is to assist you in operating and maintaining your seed tender in a safe manner. Read it carefully. It furnishes
information and instructions that will help you achieve years of dependable performance and help maintain safe operating conditions. If
this machine is used by an employee or is loaned or rented, make certain that the operator(s), prior to operating:
1. Is instructed in safe and proper use.
2. Reviews and understands the manual(s) pertaining to this machine.
Throughout this manual, the term IMPORTANT is used to indicate that failure to observe can cause damage to equipment. The terms
CAUTION, WARNING and DANGER are used in conjunction with the Safety-Alert Symbol, (a triangle with an exclamation mark), to indicate
the degree of hazard for items of personal safety. When you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and be alert to the
possibility of personal injury or death.
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
This Safety-Alert symbol indicates a hazard and means
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury,
and includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
Indicates that failure to observe can cause damage to equipment.
Indicates helpful information.
IMPORTANT
NOTE

7
ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Safety is a primary concern in the design and manufacture of our products. Unfortunately, our eorts to provide safe equipment can
be erased by an operator’s single careless act. In addition, hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness,
concern, judgment, and proper training of personnel involved in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of equipment.
Make certain that the operator(s), prior to operating is instructed in safe and proper use and reviews and understands the manual(s)
pertaining to this machine. Also make certain that the operator(s) reviews and understands the operator’s manual of the tow vehicle
prior to hooking up or operating the NitroGro Applicator.
Read this manual before you operate this machine. If you do not understand any part of this manual, or need more information, contact
the manufacturer or your authorized dealer.
Note: The right and the left hand sides of the implement are determined by facing the same direction that the applicator will travel when
moving forward.
SAFETY
Understand that your safety and the safety of other persons is measured by how you service, and operate this machine. Know the positions
and functions of all controls before you try to operate them. Make sure to check all controls in a safe area before starting your work.
The safety information given in this manual does not replace safety codes, federal, state or local laws. Make certain your machine has the
proper equipment as designated by local laws and regulations.
A frequent cause of personal injury or death is from persons falling o equipment and being run over. Do not permit persons to ride on
this machine.
Travel speeds should be such that complete control and machine stability is maintained at all times. Where possible, avoid operating near
ditches, embankments and holes. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes and rough, slick or muddy surfaces.
Collision of high speed road trac and slow moving machines can cause personal injury or death. On roads, use asher lights according
to local laws. Keep slow-moving-vehicle emblem visible. Pull over to let faster trac pass.
Keep all safety shields in place.
Keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from moving parts while unit is in operation.
Make sure that everyone is clear of equipment before applying power or moving the machine.
Make sure that the implement is fastened securely to the tractor by using the proper hitch pin, clip and safety chains.
Do NOT exceed speeds in excess of 20 MPH. Also be sure slow moving vehicle emblem is attached to rear of transport.
Before unhooking the implement from the towing unit, be sure to properly block the wheels to prevent the implement from moving. Be
sure the jack assembly is positioned in the park position and the weight has been transferred to the jack assembly before unhooking the
implement.
Avoid high pressure uids. Escaping uid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury. Always relieve pressure before
disconnecting hydraulic lines. Wear proper hand and eye protection when searching for leaks. Use wood or cardboard instead of hands.
Keep all components in good repair.
Safety Rules

8
Bolt Torque Chart
TIGHTENING WHEEL NUTS: During initial operation of the NitroGro applicator, tighten standard 3/4” wheel studs and nuts to torque
400 ft-lbs and tighten 1/2”-20 gauge wheel studs and nuts to torque 80 ft-lbs. Check for proper torque after every 10 hours of use.
Failure to do so may damage wheel nut seats. Once seats are damaged, it will become impossible to keep nuts tight.
SAE Fasteners
Always tighten hardware to these values unless a dierent torque or tightening procedure is listed for specic application. Fasteners must
always be replaced with the same grade as specied in the manual parts list. Always use the proper tool for tightening hardware. Make
sure fastener threads are clean and you start thread engagement properly. Use these values when tightening all bolts and nuts with
the exception of wheel nuts.
Stud and Wheel Nut Torque Specications
Stud Tightening Torque
1/2”-20 80 ft-lbs
9/16”-18 170 ft-lbs
5/8”-18 350 ft-lbs
3/4”-16 400 ft-lbs
20mm 475 ft-lbs
22mm 640 ft-lbs
Always tighten hardware to these values unless a dierent torque or tightening procedure is listed for specic application. Fasteners must
always be replaced with the same grade as specied in the manual parts list. Always use the proper tool for tightening hardware. Make
sure fastener threads are clean and you start thread engagement properly. Use these values when tightening all studs and wheel
nuts.
Coarse Thread Series
Grade 5 Grade 8
Diameter and Pitch (Inches) Dry Oiled Dry Oiled
1/4”-20 8 ft-lbs 6 ft-lbs 12 ft-lbs 9 ft-lbs
5/16”-18 17 13 25 18
3/8”-16 31 23 44 33
7/16”-14 49 37 70 52
1/2”-13 75 57 106 80
9/16”-12 109 82 154 115
5/8”-11 150 113 212 159
3/4”-10 267 200 376 282
7/8”-9 429 322 606 455
1”-8 644 483 909 681
Fine Thread Series
Diameter and Pitch (Inches) Dry Oiled Dry Oiled
1/4”-28 10 ft-lbs 7 ft-lbs 14 ft-lbs 10 ft-lbs
5/16”-24 19 15 27 20
3/8”-24 35 26 49 37
7/16”-20 55 41 78 58
1/2”-20 85 64 120 90
9/16”-18 121 91 171 128
5/8”-18 170 127 240 180
3/4”-16 297 223 420 315
7/8”-14 474 355 669 502

9
Specications
SPECIFICATIONS
6000 Series Applicators
Tank Size 1,850 Gallon
Base Width 60’
Ground Clearance 40”
Row Spacing* 20”, 22”, 30”
Number of Coulters 23, 25, 35, 37
Coulter Style Grove Engineered Products (GEP) or J&M ParaLinkage
Fertilizer Delivery Knife or Injection
Wing Flex Standard 15° Flex Up - 10° Flex Down
Can be operated rigidly
Wing Kick Standard
Coulter Frame Tubing 5” x 7” Double Toolbar
Hydraulic Down Pressure Standard
Standard Hydraulic Driven Pump Ace Pump
Wheels VF 380/90R46 Alliance 354 or
VF320/105R46 Alliance 354
Transport Width 11’-9”
Transport Height 11’-10”
Transport Length 25’-0”
Pin To Axle 14’-0”
Flow Monitors Standard - Wilger
Depth Control Spools Optional
Quick Fill 3”Fill Standard
Wash Tank Standard 9 Gallon Wash Tank
Empty Weight 16,000 lbs.
* Other Row Spacing Available Upon Request
Tires Ground Compaction
VF320/105R46 (Alliance) (172D) - Single Wheels 71 psi
VF380/90R46 (Alliance) (173D) - Single Wheels 57 psi
VF480/80R50 (Alliance) (179D) - Single Wheels 31 psi
VF320/105R46 (Alliance) (172D) - Dual Wheels 20 psi
VF380/90R46 (Alliance) (173D) - Dual Wheels 17 psi
VF480/80R50 (Alliance) (179D) - Dual Wheels 12 psi
Total Weight Weight on Axle* Tongue Weight*
Tank Empty 16,000 lbs 11,229.2 lbs 4,770.8 lbs
Tank Full 37,000 lbs 31,244.9 lbs 5,755.1 lbs
With toolbar unfolded and up (knives not in ground):
Total Weight Weight on Axle* Tongue Weight*
Tank Empty 16,000 lbs 6,215.4 lbs 1,034.6 lbs
Tank Full 37,000 lbs 2,6231.2 lbs 2,018.8 lbs
With toolbar folded and down (knives in ground):
*These values assume moderate soil hardness and 25 coulters.

10
NitroGro Components
Toolbar Down Pressure Gauge
Hitch
Down Pressure Relief Valve
Flow Monitors
Gauge Wheel
Coulter
Tank Fill Valve
Hand Wash Tank
Tank
Hydraulic Pump
Agitation Valve
Strainer

11
Flow monitors allow the operator to see the rate of ow to each
coulter through a oating ball inside the transparent inspection tube.
Each coulter is connected with a separate supply hose.
The standard pump for your NitroGro applicator is the Ace FMC-150-HYD-206. The maximum
hydraulic uid input pump for this pump is 7 gallons per minute. The optional, larger pump
available for your applicator is the Ace FMC-750-HYD pump. The maximum hydraulic uid input
pump for this pump is 18 gallons per minute.
IMPORTANT - Do not exceed 7 gallons per minute hydraulic uid input when using the Ace
FMC-150-HYD-206 pump or 18 gallons per minute when using the Ace FMC-750-HYD pump.
The hydraulic pump is located below the tank and near the tank outlet to prevent cavitation and
provide faster pump priming.
Depending on the pump used in your applicator, set the hydraulic ow of the tractor to 7 or 18
gallons per minute before you put the hydraulic fertilizer pump into use. If you don’t turn down
the tractor hydraulic ow to the pump, damage will occur (refer to set up Instructions in the
pump manual).
IMPORTANT - Do not exceed 1,350 psi on the down pressure gauge.
It is VERY IMPORTANT NOT TO EXCEED 1,350 psi of pressure on the down pressure
gauge. Doing so may cause damage to the inner wing fold cylinders.
The down pressure relief valve provides adjustable hydraulic pressure to force the coulters on
the wings into the ground while allowing the wing to ex up and down as needed to follow
the contour of the ground.
• Turn clockwise to increase down pressure.
• Turn counter clockwise to decrease down pressure.
Flow Monitors
Down Pressure Relief Valve
Toolbar Down Pressure Gauge
Hydraulic Pump

12
The number of coulters is determined by the number
of rows (usually one less or one more). So the number of
rows will be even, and the number of coulters will be odd,
since you are placing the nitrogen between the rows. For
example, a 24 row unit will have either 23 or 25 coulters. A
24 row applicator with 23 coulters is considered a“one-
down”unit. Similarly, a 24 row applicator with 25 coulters
is considered a“one-up”unit.
Hand wash tank makes cleaning hands after chemical
spills quick and easy.
Coulter
Hand Wash Tank
40”Toolbar
Clearance

13
The NitroGro applicator is equipped with a strainer designed to remove dirt and debris
from the fertilizer to prevent downstream clogs.
Strainer
The agitation valve is designed to allow air to escape from
the pump so it can easily prime. When you’re running in the
eld, a little liquid runs through the agitation valve back to
the tank. You will need to adjust the amount of agitation.
The agitation valve can also be opened and used to evenly
mix additives by running the pump with the electronic
control valves closed.
Agitation Valve
Counterbalance Valve
The counterbalance valve keeps the outside
wings from creeping up. To tighten the
counterbalance valve, turn the allen-head on
the counter balance valve closest to the bottom
end of the hydraulic cylinder (as shown in the
picture to the right) counter-clockwise in 1/2
turn increments until the wings remain locked
in place during operation.

14
Preparing the NitroGro Applicator:
IMPORTANT - Before putting the applicator into operation, check the machine for damaged or worn parts and replace as
necessary.
Only use a tractor with sucient power and weight to operate the applicator. For 24 rows, use a minimum of 275 hp tractor and for 36
rows use a minimum of 410 hp tractor. Be sure the applicator is properly attached to the tractor, the pin is properly secured, and the
safety chain is properly installed. Inspect all safety decals for visibility and remove any debris.
Lights and SMV:
Position the SMV emblem with one point of the triangle upward and as near to the rear and centered or as near to the left of center of
the unit as practicable. Secure the SMV emblem two to ten feet above the ground measured from the lower edge of the emblem. Before
transporting, ensure that all lights, reectors, and the SMV emblem are clean and visible.
Hardware:
Ensure all hardware is properly fastened according “Bolt Torque Chart” on page 8. Recheck all hardware for tightness after the unit
has been operated for several hours. Check that all pins and retaining rings are in good condition. Replace any pins or retaining rings
that are worn, damaged or missing.
Hydraulic Hoses:
Ensure hydraulic hoses are not kinked, twisted, or rubbing against sharp edges. Secure hoses to the applicator with nylon tie straps.
Check hoses and ttings for hydraulic leaks. Tighten or replace hoses or ttings as necessary.
Lubrication:
Lubricate the NitroGro applicator according to the Lubrication Schedule outlined in “Service”on page 33.
Tires and Wheels:
Check the tire pressure in the transport and gauge wheel tires and make sure the tire pressure is equal for each tire. Refer to “Operation”
on page 18 for tire pressure reccomendations. Tighten standard 3/4” wheel studs and nuts on transport tires to torque 400 ft-lbs and
tighten 1/2”-20 studs and nuts on gauge wheels to torque 80 ft-lbs. Check the wheel lug nuts before initial operation and after the unit
has been operated for several hours to ensure the lug nuts remain tight.
Filling the tank:
Warning: Ensure the applicator is pinned to the tractor before lling tank. The applicator must be pinned to a tractor when any
uid is present in the tank.
Make sure the area is clear of bystanders when lling the tank. Always wear protective clothing, gloves, and masks when handling
fertilizer/chemicals. Follow the fertilizer/chemical manufacturer’s instructions when lling the tank. Keep the tank lid on at all times to
keep out debris.
Fertilizer Pump:
Raise the toolbar with wings unfolded and turn on the fertilizer pump. Check if liquid is coming out of each knife/injector. Clean or
replace knives/injectors if necessary.
Unfolding the Wings:
It is recommended to unfold the side wings in the eld. Keep all bystanders away while unfolding the wings. See “Folding & Unfolding”
on page 16.
Pre-Operation Checklist

15
Connect the hoses so the toolbar raises when the tractor control lever is pulled back and lowered when the control is pushed forward.
Hook up hydraulic lines as follows:
Set #1 - Green Hoses - Raise & Lower/ Wing Kick/ Down-pressure
Set #2 - Black Hoses (No Tape) - Main Fold
Set #3 - Red Hoses - Outside Wing Fold
Set #4 - Yellow Hoses - Hydraulic Pump
IMPORTANT - For the yellow hoses, hook the 1/2”return hose to a low pressure return port on the tractor.
Connect the applicator to the tow vehicle using a hitch pin and make sure a retaining pin is secured in the hitch pin. Always attach the
safety chains to the applicator and the tow vehicle.
WARNING – Before unhooking the applicator, empty contents from tank, unpin the jack from storage position, and lock it in
the usage position. Lower the jack stand to the ground until the weight of the applicator is transferred to the jack. Keep hands
and feet away from the jack stand when lowering.
Remove the hitch pin and unhook the safety chains.
WARNING – Always relieve hydraulic system pressure before
disconnecting hoses from tractor or servicing hydraulic system.
See the tractor’s operating manual for proper procedures.
Disconnect the hydraulic hoses. Install dust covers over the hose
plugs and outlets.
When not in use, the jack handle is stored under the tongue, as
pictured to the right.
Hitching and Unhitching the Applicator
Connecting the Hydraulic Hoses
The standard pump for your NitroGro applicator is an Ace FMC-150-HYD-206 pump. Ace FMC-750-HYD-M22-PWM is an optional pump
used for the PWM system.
Note: Refer to the pump’s operating manual to regulate the hydraulic ow to the pump.
Attach the pump hydraulic hoses to the tractor so the pump operates in the lower/retract position. The pump can then be turned o
in the forward ”oat” position. Turning the pump o in“oat” instead of“neutral”allows the hydraulic system pressure to equalize and
prevents the occurrence of damaging pressure spikes.
Connect the return line to a low pressure return port, if available. The low pressure return port routes oil directly to the reservoir,
minimizing return line pressure. Low return line pressure extends the motor seal life and increases operating eciency.
WARNING- Failure to regulate oil ow will cause motor failure.
Note: Refer to the pump’s operating manual to locate your tractor model and follow the appropriate setup instructions.
WARNING - Not a suitable pump for ammable liquids.
Fertilizer Pump

16
Folding & Unfolding
Unfolding
1. Toolbar Completely Up
(Down Pressure Circuit - Green Taped Hoses)
1
2. Main Toolbar Forward and Allow Locks to Fully Engage. Hold
hydraulics for 5 seconds once wings fold completely forward.
(Toolbar Fold Circuit - Non-Taped Hoses)
2
WARNING: Failure to allow locks to fully engage can cause
severe damage to the applicator as pictured below.
3. Flip Toolbars Out
(Toolbar Flip Circuit - Red Taped Hoses)
33
Folding
1. Toolbar Completely Up
(Down Pressure Circuit - Green Taped Hoses)
1
2. Flip Toolbar In
(Toolbar Flip Circuit - Red Taped Hoses)
22
3. Main Toolbar Backwards
(Main Toolbar Fold Circuit - Non-Taped Hoses)
3
4. Main Toolbar Down
(Down Pressure Circuit - Green Taped Hoses)
4
WARNING: Ensure wings are resting in wing saddles before
transport (as pictured below).

17
• Set the down pressure just high enough to keep the gauge wheels in contact with the ground. Excessive pressure
can cause premature wear on wing pivots and gauge wheels.
• IMPORTANT - DO NOT EXCEED 1,350 psi.
• Set the center section of coulters rst. Spacers are included with the toolbar cylinders. Add or remove spacers until the
center section is positioned at the appropriate depth. Lower the unit until the lift cylinders bottom out on the stroke control
spacers. Add or remove stroke control spacers until the center toolbar section reaches desired application depth. For best
results, move forward while lowering the toolbar.
• After the center toolbar is set with the cylinder spacers, adjust the wing gauge wheel setting until the wings are level
with the base section and the entire toolbar is at and even. Once the toolbar is set and leveled, further adjustment is
typically not necessary.
Adjusting the Field Depth
Down Pressure
Follow these maintenance guidelines during the intial operation of your NitroGro applicator.
First 30 minutes of operation:
1. Ensure all coulters and nozzles are clean and working properly. Clean and adjust accordingly.
2. Check all hydraulic and chemical lines. Be sure none of them are kinked, pinched or leaking. Adjust lines accordingly.
3. Re-torque all of the wheel bolts.
4. Check all other fasteners and hardware. Adjust accordingly.
5. Lubricate all grease ttings.
6. Ensure that outside wings are not creeping up. If needed, adjust the counterbalance valves. Refer to “Counterbalance Valve”on page
13 for instructions.
After 4 hours of operation:
1. Ensure all coulters and nozzles are clean and working properly. Clean and adjust accordingly.
2. Check all hydraulic and chemical lines. Be sure none of them are kinked, pinched or leaking. Adjust lines accordingly.
3. Re-torque all of the wheel bolts.
4. Check all other fasteners and hardware. Adjust accordingly.
After 10 hours of operation:
1. Ensure all coulters and nozzles are clean and working properly. Clean and adjust accordingly.
2. Check all hydraulic and chemical lines. Be sure none of them are kinked, pinched or leaking. Adjust lines accordingly.
3. Re-torque all of the wheel bolts.
4. Check all other fasteners and hardware, especially the u-bolts that secure the coulters to the toolbar. Tighten if needed.
Upon completing the initial break-in period, begin the standard maintenance schedule as described in “Service” on page 33.
Initial Operation
• Comply with ALL state and local laws governing highway safety and regulations when moving machinery on public roads.
• Be sure an SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) emblem is in place and clearly visible on the rear of the applicator. Position the SMV emblem
with one point of the triangle upward and as near to the rear and centered or as near to the left of center of the unit as practicable.
Secure the SMV emblem two to ten feet above the ground measured from the lower edge of the emblem. Before transporting,
ensure that all lights, reectors, and the SMV emblem are clean and visible. Ensure the amber, red, and orange reective tape on the
implement is in place and clearly visible. Before transporting, ensure all lights, reectors, and the SMV emblem are clean and visible.
• When transporting applicator, do not exceed 10 MPH in the eld or over rough terrain. For highway transportation, do not exceed
20 MPH. Reduce transport speed when necessary to maintain full control. Never transport the applicator with contents in the tank.
• Tongue weight when NitroGro is folded and empty for road transport is 600-1,000 lbs depending on the conguration. Negative
tongue weight (even intermittent) may cause instability when transporting. Add ballast to tractor as required. Never tow this
implement with a motor vehicle. Tow only with a properly ballasted tractor.
• Be aware of overhead wires when transporting.
• Ensure the safety chain has a rating greater than the empty weight of the machine.
• Ensure wings are seated in the transport saddles before transporting.
Transporting

18
1. Hook tractor to NitroGro and adjust hitch so that frame on applicator is level or tilting forward slightly.
2. Connect hydraulic lines. See “Connecting the Hydraulic Hoses”on page 15.
3. Unfold the unit. See “Folding & Unfolding” on page 16.
4. Lower the unit until the lift cylinders bottom out on the stroke control spacers. Add or remove stroke control spacers until the center toolbar
section reaches desired application depth. For best results, move forward while lowering the toolbar.
5. Adjust the wing gauge wheels so the coulters on the wings are the same depth and the toolbar is level when lowered.
6. Using the desired rate of application (GPA) and speed of application (MPH), reference the supplied sizing charts beginning on page
20 of this manual to determine which orices or injectors will provide optimal application pressure. Install the orices or injectors
in the check valve unit above each row unit that is mounted on the coulter shaft.
NOTE – The unit will be either be set up to skip a row (“1 Down”), or re-apply the outside row (“1 Up”).
• If the unit is set up as “1 Down” (23 or 35 coulters), then the outside coulters on each end of the unit will be 1.5x the rate
of the other coulters.
• If the unit is set up as “1 Up” (25 or 37 coutlers), then the outside coulters on each end of the unit will be 0.5x the rate of
the other coulters.
7. Put water in the tank and check for leaks.
IMPORTANT - Before proceeding to the next step, ensure that both the maintenance valve under the tank and the agitation
valve is open to allow the pump to prime. NEVER run the pump dry.
8. With the maintenance valve open, perform initial setup of the pump as outlined in the pump operator’s manual. After pump set up,
recheck the applicator for leaks.
9. In-eld adjustment of hydraulic down-pressure: Adjust so that the coulters stay at desired depth with the least amount of hydraulic
pressure necessary.
IMPORTANT - DO NOT exceed 1,350 psi.
10. Adjust hydraulic ow on the raise and lower/wing kick/down-pressure circuit with the least amount of hydraulic pressure necessary
while maintaining a reasonable speed to raise and lower the toolbar. This will prevent excess heat in the hydraulic system as this circuit
provides continuous toolbar down-pressure.
11. Fold the wings up for transport. See “Folding & Unfolding” on page 16.
IMPORTANT - Be sure to fully raise the toolbar before folding the wings up! Failure to do so will result in damage to the unit.
12. TIRE PRESSURE: The following is to be used as a general guide for tire ination for cyclic use. Figures can vary depending on
specic brand of tire used. It is important that tires are inspected before and after operation. The tire should stand up with no
side wall buckling or distress as the tire rolls. Do not exceed the tire pressure indicated below:
Operation
Tires for Gauge Wheels psi
ST215-75D14 Carlisle Sport Trail Tire 45
Tires for Single Wheel Applicators psi
VF320/105R46 (Alliance) (172D) 71
VF380/90R46 (Alliance) (173D) 57
VF480/80R50 (Alliance) (179D) 31
Tires for Walking Tandem Dual Wheel Applicators psi
VF320/105R46 (Alliance) (172D) 20
VF380/90R46 (Alliance) (173D) 17
VF480/80R50 (Alliance) (179D) 12

19
Row Spacing Flow Monitor Manifold Set Up (1 Up) Flow Monitor Manifold Set Up (1 Down)
20”/22”
37 Coulters 35 Coulters
8 8 7 7
777 777
30”
25 Coulters 23 Coulters
5 5 4 4
555 555
Flow Monitor Set Up
The NitroGro applicator oers row spacing options of 20”, 22”, or 30”. The unit will be either be set up to or re-apply the outside row
(“1 Up”), or skip a row (“1 Down”). Using your row spacing and whether your aplicator is “1 Up”or “1 Down”, refer to the chart below to
determine the location and quantity of ow monitors for your applicator.
Using the charts on pages 20-31v, decide which ball is best suited for
your desired GPA and Speed. Only choose one ball for all ow monitors.
Remove the balls that are not being used. The easiest way to remove
the balls is to remove the ow monitors and dump the balls into a
box. During this process, keep the hoses organized to ensure they
are returned to their original locations when you reassemble the ow
monitors.
To install a ball in the ow monitor, remove the clip and pop o the
hose on top of the ow monitor. Remove the screen, insert the ball,
and return the screen to its original position. To prevent the ball from
entering the hose, ensure the screen is above the ball. Clip the hose
back onto the ow monitor.
Clip
Screen
Hose

20
20 Gallons Per Acre 25 Gallons Per Acre
Speed (MPH) 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
#10 Injector (psi) 1 7 10 15 19 24 29 33 2 6 13 18 24 29 36 41 47
#15 Injector (psi) 3 6 9 12 16 2 5 9 13 17 20 25
#20 Injector (psi) 2 4 7 2 4 8 10 13
#30 Injector (psi) 2
#40 Injector (psi)
GPM (per nozzle) 0.34 0.43 0.52 0.60 0.69 0.77 0.86 0.95 1.03 0.43 0.54 0.64 0.75 0.86 0.97 1.07 1.18 1.29
Flow Indicator 1/2" SS Level 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5 1.8 2.1 2.4 2.7 3.0 0.9 1.3 1.7 2.0 2.4 2.8 3.1 3.5 3.9
Flow Indicator 7/16" SS Ball 0.1 0.3 0.5 0.7 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.1 1.4
30 Gallons Per Acre 35 Gallons Per Acre
Speed (MPH) 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
#10 Injector (psi) 6 12 20 26 33 39 47 53 61 11 17 27 33 42 49 58 66 74
#15 Injector (psi) 1 6.3 10 15 19 24 29 34 1 5 11 15 21 26 32 37 43
#20 Injector (psi) 2 6 9 13 16 20 3 6 11 14 19 22 27
#30 Injector (psi) 1 4 6 1 3 5 8 11
#40 Injector (psi) 1 3
GPM (per nozzle) 0.52 0.64 0.77 0.90 1.03 1.16 1.29 1.42 1.55 0.60 0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.50 1.66 1.81
Flow Indicator 1/2" SS Level 1.2 1.7 2.1 2.5 3.0 3.4 3.9 4.3 4.7 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.6 4.1 4.6 5.1 5.6
Flow Indicator 7/16" SS Ball 0.1 0.4 0.7 1.1 1.4 1.8 2.1 0.4 0.8 1.2 1.6 2.0 2.4 2.8
40 Gallons Per Acre 45 Gallons Per Acre
Speed (MPH) 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
#10 Injector (psi) 15 23 33 41 50 59 70 78 88 20 28 40 48 59 69 81 90 102
#15 Injector (psi) 4 8 15 20 28 33 39 45 52 7 12 20 26 34 40 47 53 61
#20 Injector (psi) 1 6 10 15 19 25 29 33 3 10 14 20 24 30 35 40
#30 Injector (psi) 4 6 9 12 15 2 7 9 13 16 20
#40 Injector (psi) 2 4 6 2 4 7 10
GPM (per nozzle) 0.69 0.86 1.03 1.20 1.38 1.55 1.72 1.89 2.06 0.77 0.97 1.16 1.35 1.55 1.74 1.93 2.13 2.32
Flow Indicator 1/2" SS Level 1.8 2.4 3.0 3.6 4.1 4.7 5.3 5.9 6.5 2.1 2.8 3.4 4.1 4.7 5.4 6.1 6.7
Flow Indicator 7/16" SS Ball 0.3 0.7 1.2 1.6 2.1 2.5 3.0 3.4 0.1 0.6 1.1 1.6 2.1 2.6 3.1 3.6 4.1
Injectors - 20” Row Spacing
NOTES:
• The values highlighted in green indicate pressures that are in the optimal pressure range of 20 - 50 psi. The row spacing is 20 inches.
• Density or viscosity of the liquid can eect operating range.
• A displayed pressure higher than the calculated pressure may be due to a pressure drop in the fertilizer hoses.
• With #10 on the center, use #15 for one and a half rate outside, (35 knife).
• With #15 on the center, use #8 for half rate outside, (37 knife), and #20 for one and a half rate outside, (35 knife).
• With #20 on the center, use #10 for half rate outside, (37 knife), and #30 for one and a half rate outside, (35 knife).
• With #30 on the center, use #15 for half rate outside, (37 knife), and #40 for one and a third rate outside, (35 knife).
• With #40 on the center, use #20 for half rate outside, (37 knife), and #60 for one and a half rate outside, (35 knife).
For replacement injectors, see“Coulter Injector Assembly” on page 57.