Kuhns mfg Tie Grabber Series User manual

Read and understand the manual. This manual provides information and
procedures to safely operate and maintain the Tie-Grabber.
MADE IN THE USA
Tie Grabber Series
Owner’s Manual

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 3 Tie Grabber
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ..........................4
1.1 Intended Usage .......................4
1.2 Operator Orientation....................4
1.3 Warranty .............................4
1.4 Serial Number Location .................4
1.5 Owner’s Manual Storage ................5
1.6 Specifications .........................5
1.7 Definitions............................5
1.8 Product Improvements ..................5
1.9 Disposal of Equipment at End of Useful Life . 5
1.10 Unanswered Questions .................5
2. SAFETY .................................6
2.1 General..............................6
2.2 Safety Alert Symbols ...................6
2.3 Safety Icons Nomenclature ..............6
2.4 Prohibited Actions......................7
2.5 Personal Protection/Important Information ...7
2.6 Hazard Avoidance......................7
2.7 General Operating Safety................8
2.8 Machine’s Owner/Operator Manual ........8
2.9 Machine’s Safety Device Requirements.....8
2.10 Practice Safe Maintenance...............9
2.11 Training..............................9
2.12 Sign-Off Form ........................11
3. SAFETY SIGNS AND LOCATIONS ..........12
3.1 General Information ...................14
3.2 Safety Signs and Labels................14
3.3 Safety Signs and Instructional Labels .....14
3.4 How to Install Replacement Safety Signs...14
4. LIFTING AND HANDLING ..................15
4.1 Lifting points .........................15
4.2 Transporting .........................15
4.3 Highway and Transport Operations .......15
4.4 Pre-transport Checklist .................15
5. TIE GRABBER ATTACHMENT ..............16
5.1 Bracket Attachment ...................16
5.2 Hydraulic Safety ......................16
5.3 Hydraulic Connections .................16
6. CONNECTING HOSES TO MACHINE........17
6.1 One Circuit System (Two Hose Method) ...17
6.2 Two Circuit System (Four Hose Method) ...17
6.3 System Change Over ..................18
7. THREADING TWINE INTO THE TWINE ARM..20
8. OPERATION .............................22
8.1 Operation Safety......................22
8.2 Pre-Operation .......................22
8.3 Tie Grabber Operation .................22
8.4 Knotter Operation .....................24
9. MANIFOLD PORT LOCATIONS AND IDENTIFICA-
TION ......................................25
10. SETTING AND TIMING ....................28
10.1 Accessing the Knotter Components .......28
10.2 Knife Arm ...........................28
10.3 Testing and Adjusting Knotter Assembly....29
10.4 Twine Disc Assembly ..................31
10.5 Cam Timing Mark .....................31
10.6 Tucker Finger ........................32
10.7 Knotter Drive Chain ...................32
10.8 Twine Arm Drive Chain .................32
10.9 Twine Tensioner ......................32
11. MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
11.1 Maintenance Safety ...................33
11.2 General Information ...................35
11.4 Twine Arm...........................35
11.5 Squeeze Arm ........................35
11.6 Knotter .............................35
11.7 Chain Lubrication .....................35
11.8 Hydraulic Hoses ......................35
11.9 Flow Control Valve Plunger .............36
11.10 Springs .............................36
12. MAINTENANCE SERVICE SCHEDULE SHEET ...37
12.1 Torque Requirements ..................38
13. STORAGE...............................39
13.1 Placing in Storage ....................39
14. TROUBLESHOOTING .....................40
15. PARTS .................................43
15.1 Main Tie Grabber Assembly .............43
15.2 Hooks ..............................44
15.3 Squeeze Arm Assembly ................45
15.4 Twine Arm Stack......................46
15.5 Twine Arm Motor Group ................47
15.6 Manifold Assembly ....................48
15.7 Twine Box Assembly...................49
15.8 Plunger Valve Assembly ................50
15.9 Knotter Main Assembly.................51
15.10Knotter Motor Group...................53

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 4 Tie Grabber
1. Introduction
The Tie-Grabber automatically places twine around a
group of bales that are deposited by the accumulator.
Picking up a complete grouping of eight to eighteen
bales of hay at one time allows wagons to be loaded
more quickly as well as transported with more
stability.
With a completely bundled grouping of hay bales, it
also provides signicant time savings as the need for
load tie-downs is diminished to almost zero.
1.1 Intended Usage
Do not use this Tie Grabber for any other purpose
than its intended use of gathering groups of bales
from a eld, attaching the bales into a unit with twine,
and loading/unloading wagons.
1.2 Operator Orientation
The directions left, right, front, and rear, as mentioned
throughout this manual, are as seen from the
machine’s operator’s seat and facing in the direction
of travel.
1.3 Warranty
Kuhns Mfg LLC provides a warranty for 2 years from
time of purchase against all manufacturing defects
and any normal wear.
All accidental breakage will be the responsibility of the
customer to repair.
Kuhns Mfg LLC reserves the right to deny a warranty
claim if machinery is used for anything other than its
intended use.
All OEM parts are available from Kuhns Mfg LLC.
In the event of a warranty claim, Kuhns Mfg LLC may
require the return of the defective or broken parts.
1.4 Serial Number Location
The Tie Grabber’s serial number is located near the
back right hand corner of the Tie Grabber frame.
Please use this number when requesting service,
seeking information, or ordering parts. Record
the serial number in the space provided for easy
reference when contacting Kuhns Mfg LLC with
questions.
Model ____________________________________
Serial Number ______________________________
Date of Purchase ___________________________

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 5 Tie Grabber
1.5 Owner’s Manual Storage
Store the owner’s manual and other operating
materials in the document storage tube, located on
the left side of the twine box.
1.6 Specifications
The following chart lists the minimum lifting
requirements of the loader used to operate the Tie
Grabber.
WARNING
Tip Over Hazard
Using an under-rated machine can cause the
machine to tip over, resulting in serious
injury or even possible death. Attach the
unit only to a machine with the proper lifting
capacity.
Model
Number
Minimum
Machine Lifting
Capacity in lbs*
Minimum
Machine Lifting
Capacity in kg*
KN408F 2000 lbs. 905 kg.
KN510 2100 lbs. 950 kg.
KN510F 2200 lbs. 1000 kg.
KN612F 2300 lbs. 1040 kg.
KN615 2500 lbs. 1134 kg.
KN615F 2600 lbs. 1180 kg.
KN615L 2600 lbs. 1180 kg.
KN618 2800 lbs. 1270 kg.
KN618L 2900 lbs. 1316 kg.
1.7 Definitions
Machine - Either a front end loader or a skid steer
loader.
Unit - One of the available KN Series Tie Grabber
attachments.
1.8 Product Improvements
Because Kuhns Mfg LLC maintains an ongoing
program of product improvement, we reserve the
right to make improvements in design or changes
in specications without incurring any obligation to
install them on units previously sold.
1.9 Disposal of Equipment at End of Useful
Life
The Kuhns Mfg LLC Tie Grabber has been designed
for the specific purpose of arranging bales into
groups. When this unit is no longer capable of
performing its intended use, it should be dismantled
and scrapped. Do not use any materials or
components from this unit for any other purpose.
1.10 Unanswered Questions
If you have any questions not answered in this
manual, require additional copies, or the manual is
damaged please contact your dealer, or:
Kuhns Mfg LLC
4210 Kinsman Road NW
North Bloomeld, OH 44450
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
The manual is also available for download at:
www.kuhnsmfg.com

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 6 Tie Grabber
2. Safety
2.1 General
Most work related accidents are caused by failure to
observe basic safety rules or precautions. An
accident can often be avoided by recognizing
potentially hazardous situations before an accident
occurs. As you operate and maintain the Tie Grabber
you must be alert to potential hazards. You should
also have the necessary training, skills, and tools to
perform any assembly or maintance procedure.
WARNING
Improper operation and/or maintenance of this unit
could cause a dangerous situation that results in
injury or death.
Do not use the unit until you read and
understand the information contained in this
manual and all related equipment manuals.
Safety precautions and warnings are
provided in this manual and on the unit. If
these hazard warnings are not heeded,
bodily injury or death could occur to you or to
other persons.
Kuhns Mfg LLC cannot anticipate every possible
circumstance that might involve a potential hazard.
The warnings in this manual and on the product are,
therefore, not all-inclusive. If a method of operation
not specically recommended by us is used, you
must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and for
others. You should also ensure that the unit will not
be damaged or be made unsafe by the methods that
you choose.
The information, specications, and illustrations in
this manual are based on the information that was
available at the time this material was written and can
change at any time.
2.2 Safety Alert Symbols
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to
alert you to potential personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
This manual contains DANGERS, WARNINGS,
CAUTIONS, IMPORTANT NOTICES, and NOTES
which must be followed to prevent the possibility
of improper service, damage to the equipment,
personal injury, or death. The following key words
call the readers attention to potential hazards.
Hazards are identified by the “Safety Alert
Symbol” and followed by a signal word such
as “DANGER”, “WARNING”, or “CAUTION”.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury. This signal word is limited to the
most extreme situations.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in serious injury or
death.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury.
NOTICE
Indicates that equipment or property damage can
result if instructions are not followed.
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Safety instructions (or equivalent) signs indicate
specific safety-related instructions or procedures.
NOTE: Contains additional information important to a
procedure.
2.3 Safety Icons Nomenclature
This manual and the equipment has numerous safety
icons. These safety icons provide important operating
instructions which alert you to potential personal
injury hazards.
DANGER

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 7 Tie Grabber
2.4 Prohibited Actions
Do not alter or modify
Do not weld
No riders
No children
No alcohol
No drugs
2.5 Personal Protection/
Important Information
Read the manual
Maintenance procedure
Eye protection
Hearing protection
Hand protection
Foot protection
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Inspect equipment
Use proper tools
Place in neutral
Weight rating
OEM
OEM
Use OEM parts
Use ROPS and seat belt
N
I
NG
AR
Maintain safety signs
Place in park
Remove key
STOP
Stop engine
Visibility
Check/Maintain fluid levels
Set parking brake
2.6 Hazard Avoidance
Crushing hazard
Crushing hazard
Slipping hazard
Tripping hazard
Entanglement hazard
Hot surface
Fire hazard
Safety alert symbol
0
Zero pressure
Sharp object hazard
Defective or broken part
Maintain safe Distance
Pinch point hazard
Pinch point hazard
Pinch point hazard
Overturn hazard
Tip over hazard
Hose damage hazard
Explosive separation hazard
High pressure fluid hazard
Falling hazard

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 8 Tie Grabber
2.7 General Operating Safety
DANGER
Electrocution Hazard
Despite operating precautions,
equipment can come in contact
with electrical lines. It is important
to know how to handle these situations.
If the machine comes in contact with overhead power
lines, stay on the machine. Ask someone to contact
the local utility company immediately to remove the
danger. If there’s an emergency, such as an electrical
re, and you need to leave the equipment, jump as
far away from the equipment as possible. Do not
allow any part of your body to touch the equipment
and the ground at the same time.
Once you get away from the equipment, never
attempt to get back on or even touch the equipment.
Many electrocutions occur when the operator
dismounts and, realizing nothing has happened, tries
to get back on the equipment.
WARNING
Read And Understand Manual
To prevent personal injury or even death,
be sure you read and understand all of the
instructions in this manual and other
related OEM equipment manuals! This Tie
Grabber (unit) was designed for a specific
application; DO NOT modify or use this unit for
any application other than which it was designed.
Units operated improperly or by untrained
personnel can be dangerous! Inexperienced
operators should receive instruction from
someone familiar with the equipment before
being allowed to operate the unit.
Do Not Operate
Do not use the unit if it is in need of
repair. If you believe the unit has a
defect which could cause injury or
death, you should immediately stop using the
unit.
Fall Hazard
Do not use the unit as a platform. Do not
stand on top of the unit at any time. Do not
ride on the unit or allow others to ride on it.
Pinch Point Hazard
Keep hands and feet away from any moving
parts to prevent them from getting pinched.
Impaired User Hazard
Do not attempt to assemble, operate,
or maintain the Unit under the
influence of drugs or alcohol. Consult
your doctor before using the Unit while taking
prescription medications.
Entanglement Hazard
Keep hands, feet, clothing, jewelry, and
long hair away from any moving parts to
prevent them from getting caught.
CRUSH HAZARD
DO NOT GO UNDER THE UNIT FOR ANY
REASON.
Stay Clear
Clear the area of people, especially
small children, before using the Tie
Grabber. Under no circumstances
should young children be allowed to work with or
around the Tie Grabber.
2.8 Machine’s Owner/Operator Manual
Always refer to and be familiar with the
machines owner’s manual to ensure
compatibility and maximum safety.
Refer to the Machine’s Operator’s Manual
to make sure the machine used meets the
minimum lifting capacity requirements for
your unit. Found on page 5.
Operating the unit with a machine that does
not meet the following requirements may cause
damage to the unit and/or the machine and can be
a danger to the operator and passersby.
Always review the “controls” section of the
machine’s operator’s manual to be familiar with the
location, settings, and function of the controls. Be
familiar with all controls before using this unit.
2.9 Machine’s Safety Device Requirements
Approved Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) or
ROPS cab and seat belt.
Machine Safety Devices; Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV)
emblem, lighting, PTO master shield.
To reduce the risk of re, do not use a machine with
an under-frame exhaust.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 9 Tie Grabber
Rollover Hazard
To avoid serious injury or death from falling
off the machine, equipment runover, rollover,
or crushing: Use ROPS equipped machines.
Keep ROPS locked in the UP position.
Only operate the equipment when seated in the
operators seat.
Always fasten seat belt when operating the machine.
Use caution when transporting over uneven terrain and
slow down for turns.
The machine must be equipped with a roll over
protective structure (ROPS) (cab or roll bar) and seat
belt to protect the operator from falling o󰀨 the machine,
especially during a roll-over where the driver could be
crushed and killed. Only operate a machine with the
ROPS in the raised position and seat belt fastened.
2.10 Practice Safe Maintenance
Understand service procedures before doing
any work. Keep the work area clean and dry.
Keep all parts in good working condition
and properly installed. Replace worn or
broken parts immediately.
Do not modify the unit or its safety devices. Do
not weld on the unit. Unauthorized modifications
may impair its function and safety.
2.11 Training
Anyone who will be using and/or maintaining the unit
must read, clearly understand, and follow ALL safety,
operation, and maintenance information presented
in this manual, other related OEM manuals, and the
safety signs.
If you do not understand any information in this
manual, see your dealer or contact Kuhns Mfg LLC
before proceeding.
Do not use or allow anyone else to use this Tie
Grabber until all information has been reviewed.
Annually review this manual before the season
start-up.
Make periodic reviews of SAFETY and OPERATION
a standard practice. An untrained operator is not
qualied to use this Tie Grabber.
Kuhns Mfg LLC follows the general Safety
Standards specied by the Farm Equipment
Manufacturers Association (FEMA), and the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Anyone who will be using and/or maintaining the
Tie Grabber must read and clearly understand
ALL safety, operation and maintenance
information presented in this manual.
See the Sign-O󰀨 Sheet and Information on Page
11.
Roll Away Hazard
Before leaving the operator’s seat, make sure
the engine is stopped, the transmission is placed
in park or neutral, the key is removed, and the
parking brake is set.
Rollover Hazard
The weight of the machine, plus the unit, if
it rolls onto a person, could cause serious
crushing injury or death.
Crush Hazard
The machine should be equipped with
a roll over protective structure (ROPS)
and a seat belt. A crushing hazard
could occur if the operator is ejected from the
seat while the machine is in motion. Fasten the
seat belt whenever the machine is moving
Entanglement Hazard
Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing
away from rotating parts. Do not clean,
lubricate, or adjust your unit or
machine while it is moving.
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
STOP

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 10 Tie Grabber
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
The following safety instructions are provided to help
prevent injury and limit equipment damage.
Train Unfamiliar Users
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure
any person using the Tie Grabber, especially
if it is loaned or rented, has been thoroughly
trained on its proper and safe use.
Be certain only physically-able persons will use the Tie
Grabber.
Users who have not read and understood all operating
and safety instructions are not qualified to use the Tie
Grabber.
Never allow children to operate equipment.
Operation Safety
Refer to “Operation Safety” on page 22 for safety
recommendations related to using the Tie Grabber. All
applicable safety recommendations in other sections
should also be followed.
Maintenance Safety
Refer to “Maintenance” on page 33 for safety
recommendations related to maintaining the Tie
Grabber. All applicable safety recommendations in other
sections should also be followed.
Storage Safety
Refer to “Storage” on page 39 for safety
recommendations related to storing the Tie Grabber. All
applicable safety recommendations in other sections
should also be followed.
Hydraulic Safety
Refer to “Hydraulic Safety” on page 16 for safety
recommandations related to general hydraulics. All
applicable safety recommendations in other sections
should also be followed.
Transporting Safety
Refer to “Transporting” on page 15 for safety
recommandations related to related to transporting the
Tie Grabber. All applicable safety recommendations in
other sections should also be followed.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 11 Tie Grabber
2.12 Sign-Off Form
This sign-off sheet is provided for your records to show that all personnel who will be working with the equipment
have read and understand the information in this operation and parts manual and have been instructed in the
operation of the equipment.
Sign-O󰀨 Form
Date User’s Signature Owner’s Signature

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 12 Tie Grabber
Item Type Description Qty
1 WARNING Read the manual 1
2 WARNING No riders 2
3 DANGER Pinch point 3
4 CAUTION Twine threading instructions 1
5 INFORMATIONAL Serial number 1
6 INFORMATIONAL Made in the USA 1
7 INFORMATIONAL Fork lift lifting point 2
3. Safety Signs and Locations

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 13 Tie Grabber
6.
7.
4.
3.
1. 5.
2.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 14 Tie Grabber
3.1 General Information
The types of safety signs (hazard labels) and
instructional labels, along with their locations on the
equipment, are shown in the previous illustrations.
Good safety practices require that you familiarize
yourself with the various safety signs, the type
of warning, and the area or particular operation
related to that area that requires your SAFETY
AWARENESS.
Pay close attention to the safety signs and
instructional labels attached to the machine and unit.
The safety signs attached to the unit are reproduced
in section 3. If the unit is missing a label or one is
unreadable, replace the label before using the unit.
3.2 Safety Signs and Labels
CAUTION
Legible Safety Signs
Keep safety signs clean and legible at all
times. Replace any safety sign or
instruction sign that is missing or not
legible.
Replacement parts that displayed a safety sign
should also display the current sign. Replacement
safety signs (labels) are available from your
authorized Dealer Parts Department or the factory at
no cost.
3.3 Safety Signs and Instructional Labels
Keep safety signs or instructional labels clean and
legible at all times. Use a clean, damp cloth to clean
safety decals.
1. Replace any missing or hard-to-read safety
signs or instructional labels.
2. Use care when washing or cleaning the equipment.
Make sure not to remove or damage the labels.
When using a pressure washer to clean the Tie
Grabber, avoid spraying too close to decals; high-
pressure water can enter through very small
scratches or under edges of decals causing them to
peel or come o󰀨.
3. Locations for the labels and replacement part
numbers are shown in this section.
4. Replacement parts must have replacement labels
attached before the Tie Grabber is used.
5. Labels are available from your authorized dealer or
from Kuhns Mfg LLC at no charge.
For replacement decals, contact:
Kuhns Mfg LLC
4210 Kinsman Road NW
North Bloomeld, OH 44450
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
3.4 How to Install Replacement Safety Signs
1. Clean and dry the installation area.
NOTE: Do not install the signs if the temperature is
below 50ºF.
2. Determine the exact position for the labels before
you remove the backing paper.
3. Remove the backing paper.
4. Align the sign over the specied area and carefully
press the sign to the part/frame.
NOTE: Small air pockets can be pierced with a pin
and smoothed out using the piece of backing paper.
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 15 Tie Grabber
4. Lifting and handling
4.1 Lifting points
Should the Tie Grabber need to be moved by a fork
truck, the Tie Grabber should be lifted at the lifting
points marked with the blue fork lifting decals.
The forks on the fork type truck being used should be
between 48 - 60 inches in length. The fork type truck
must have the lifting capacity required by the unit
being moved. See the chart on page 5 for minimum
lifting requirements for all units.
WARNING
Tip Over Hazard
Using an under-rated machine can cause
the machine to tip over, resulting in serious
injury or even possible death.
4.2 Transporting
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Before transporting make sure the tractor or
loader used is in the good operating condition
according to the OEM user’s manual.
When transporting the unit on a roadway,
make sure that the tractor or loader has a
clearly visible SMV placard.
Make sure that the area is clear of children,
animals, people and other obstacles before
moving the unit. This is particularly important
with higher noise levels and quiet cabs, as you
may not hear people shouting.
Do not allow anyone to ride on the tractor
or the unit.
4.3 Highway and Transport Operations
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Always drive at a safe speed relative to conditions
and ensure that your speed is low enough for an
emergency stop to be safe and secure. Keep speed
to a minimum.
Reduce speed prior to turns to avoid the risk of
overturning.
Always keep the tractor or loader in gear to provide
engine braking when going downhill. Do not coast.
Make sure when transporting with a truck or trailer to
secure the Tie Grabber to the transport and to move
the jackstand to the weight bearing position.
Use approved accessories lighting, ags, or other
necessary warning devices to protect operators of
other vechicles on the highway during daylight and
nighttime transport. Various safety lights and devices
are available from your dealer.
Be a safe and courteous driver. Always yield to
oncoming tra󰀩c in all situation, including narrow
bridges, intersections, etc. Plan your route to avoid
heavy tra󰀩c.
Watch for overhead obstructions and side clearances
while transporting.
Always operate equipment in a position to provide
maximum visability at all times. Make allowances for
increased operating length and weight, when making
turns, stopping, etc.
4.4 Pre-transport Checklist
1. Before transporting, make sure the maintenance
on the tractor or loader is current.
2. Check the tire pressures on the tractor or loader
and correct if necessary.
3. Make sure the unit is securly attached to the tractor
or loader. Always inspect the unit and the bracket for
damage, abnormal wear, or excessive wear when
hooking up.
4. Prior to transporting on a roadway, have an
observer conrm that all running lights, brake lights,
turn signals, and hazard lights are working.
5. Verify the brakes are operating correctly.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 16 Tie Grabber
5. Tie Grabber Attachment
This section of the manual will go over attaching the
unit to a front end loader or a skid steer loader.
The units include a loader mounting bracket of your
choice.
Follow the OEM machine manufacturer’s
recommendations for attaching the machine to the Tie
Grabber attachment.
Many units have a bolt-on attachment bracket that will
allow the end user to use the same unit with various
machines. The bolt-on brackets are factory installed
according to the sales order.
5.1 Bracket Attachment
NOTICE
Always be sure that the bolts between the tie grabber
and the mounting bracket are in place, tight, and in
good condition.
When connecting from the mounting bracket to the
tracker or loader follow the instuctions and safety
steps called for by your machine’s manual.
5.2 Hydraulic Safety
WARNING
High-Pressure Fluid Hazard
Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure
can penetrate the skin. Openings in the skin
and minor cuts are susceptible to infection
from hydraulic fluid. If injured by a concentrated
high-pressure stream of hydraulic fluid, seek
medical attention immediately. Without immediate
medical treatment, serious infection or toxic
reaction can develop if hydraulic fluid penetrates
the surface of the skin.
Hose Damage Hazard
Before applying pressure to the system,
make sure all components are tight and that
the hydraulic lines, hoses, and couplings
are not damaged. Replace any worn, cut,
abraded, flattened, or crimped hoses.
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear proper hand and eye
protection when searching for
a high-pressure hydraulic leak.
Use a piece of wood or cardboard as a backstop
instead of hands to identify and isolate a leak.
Trapped Air Hazard
When installing, replacing, or repairing
hydraulic system cylinders or parts, make
sure that the entire system is charged and
free of air before resuming operations. This can
be done by cycling the unit a few times before
starting to use the unit.
Explosive Separation Hazard
Do not make any temporary repairs to the
hydraulic lines, fittings, or hoses using
tape, clamps, or adhesives. The hydraulic
system operates under extremely high pressure
and temporary repairs may fail suddenly and
create a hazardous/dangerous situation.
NOTICE
Make sure components in the hydraulic system are
kept clean and in good working condition.
The most common reason for hydraulic component
failure is contamination of the oil. Keep all hydraulic
access areas completely clean, such as around the
hydraulic oil ller cap, lter, and connection points.
Replace any ttings, hoses, or other components
where leakage is observed. Clean up any spilled
hydraulic oil.
5.3 Hydraulic Connections
The Tie Grabber can work with ether a two circuit
system (four separate hydraulic hose connections)
or a one circuit system (two separate hydraulic
hose connections). In the following sections we
will walk through both setups. Your machine will
need a hydraulic system that meets these minimum
requirements Minimum PSI of 2000 and Minimum
Flow of 5gal per minute.
NOTE: If you are using the one circuit setup, the
machine you are using will need a 12 volt power
source to run the solenoids in the manifold.
Many skid steers can use an adapter kit from Skid
Steer Genius (skidsteergenius.com).

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 17 Tie Grabber
6. Connecting Hoses to Machine
6.1 One Circuit System (Two Hose Method)
1. Connect the lines from Port F and Port E into one
circuit on the machine.
2. Then mount the provided splitter handle in the cab.
3. Next route and secure the black wire from the
spitter handle out of the cab along the bucket arm
and connect it to the red wire coming out of the unit.
4. Then connect the red wire on the splitter handle to
a 12 volt power source.
NOTE: You should install an inline fuse between the
power source and the splitter handle.
NOTICE
To prevent damage, route the wire in such a
manner that it will not be damaged when the
liftarms of the machine raise or lower the unit.
NOTE: The connection of the hoses to the
machine dictates the operation of the unit. For
example, if the twine arm moves forward when the
machine’s control is pulled back, reversing the
hoses will make the twine arm operate in reverse.
The operating direction of the machine’s controls
should be set to the end user’s preference.
NOTICE
Check the machine’s hydraulic reservoir, after
connecting and cycling the unit, for proper
fluid level. Operating the machine without the
proper oil level can cause damage to both the unit
and the machine.
6.2 Two Circuit System (Four Hose
Method)
With a four hose system there is no need for
solenoids on the unit because the system has two
circuits. If the sales order calls for this system it will
be factory installed.
1. Connect the lines from Port A and Port B into one
circuit on the machine.
2. Connect the lines from Port C and Port D into a
di󰀨erent circuit on the machine.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 18 Tie Grabber
6.3 System Change Over
If at any point the user wishes to change from one
system to the other, Kuhns Mfg LLC should be
contacted to supply the OEM part. Once you have
parts, steps in this section can be followed. This
section only pertains to manifolds produced in 2019
and later.
6.3.1 Changing from One Circuit System
to a Two Circuit System
WARNING
0
Before disconnecting any hydraulic hoses or
fittings on or from the unit make sure the
hydraulic fluid pressure is relieved to zero
pressure. Failure to follow this safety instruction
can result in serious injury and possible death.
OEM Parts for a Two Circuit System Change
Over
1. Disconnect the unit from the machine and relieve
any hydraulic pressure in the unit.
2. At the manifold remove the hoses and adapters
from Port F and Port E.
3. Remove the plugs from Port A, Port B, Port C, and
Port D.
4. Use two of the plugs you removed in step 3 to plug
Port E and Port F.
5. Remove the two Solenoids from Port SV3 and Port
SV4.
6. Install an OEM cavity plug in Port SV3 and Port
SV4.
7. Remove the solenoid wire from the unit.
8. Connect hoses to the following Ports using the
adapters, Port A, Port B, Port C, and Port D.
9. Reconnect the unit to the machine following the
steps in the Four Hose Method section.
NOTE: The connection of the hoses to the
machine dictates the operation of the unit. For
example, if the twine arm moves forward when the
machine’s control is pulled back, reversing the
hoses will make the twine arm operate in reverse.
The operating direction of the machine’s controls
should be set to the end user’s preference.
NOTICE
Check the machine’s hydraulic reservoir,
after connecting and cycling the unit, for
proper uid level. Operating the machine
without the proper oil level can cause damage to
both the unit and the machine.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 19 Tie Grabber
6.3.2 Changing from Two Circuit System
to a One Circuit System
WARNING
0
Before disconnecting any hydraulic hoses or
fittings on or from the unit make sure the
hydraulic fluid pressure is relieved to zero
pressure. Failure to follow this safety instruction can
result in serious injury and possible death.
OEM Parts for a Two Hose Change Over
1. Disconnect the unit from the machine and relieve
any hydraulic pressure in the unit.
2. At the manifold remove the hoses from Port A, Port
B, Port C, and Port D.
3. remove the plugs from Port E, Port F, Port SV3,
and Port SV4.
4. Install an OEM Solenoid in each of the following
Ports; Port SV3 and Port SV4.
5. Install one of the four OEM plug in each of the
following Ports Port A, Port B, Port C, and Port D.
6. Connect hoses to the following Ports, Port E and
Port F.
7. Ground the solenoids by connecting one wire from
each solenoid to one of the manifold mounting bolts.
8. Splice the second wire from each solenoid together
and attach a 6ft lead.
9.a. The handle needs to be mounted onto the
machine. The red wire need to be attached to a 12
volt source on your machine. The black wire needs to
follow your loader boom out and attach onto your tire
grabber 6ft lead.
9.b. Or for many skid steers you can use an adapter
kit from Skid Steer Genius (skidsteergenius.com).
10. Reconnect the unit to the machine following the
steps in the two hose method.
NOTICE
Check the machine’s hydraulic reservoir, after
connecting and cycling the unit, for proper
fluid level. Operating the machine without the
proper oil level can cause damage to both the unit
and the machine.

Kuhns Manufacturing [phone] 20 Tie Grabber
7. Threading Twine into the Twine Arm
Not following these safety instructions can result in
serious injury and possible death.
Read and understand the Operator’s Manual
and all safety signs before operating the unit.
Do not allow riders on the unit or the machine.
Stop the Machine’s engine, remove
the ignition key, and wait for
all moving parts to stop before
leaving the machine.
Keep all bystanders, especially children,
away from the machine and the unit when
operating, loading, and unloading.
Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing away from
rotating parts.
Do not place hands, fingers, or arms between
moving parts.
Stay away from overhead power lines.
Electrocution can occur without direct
contact.
Crushing Hazard
Do not stand near the unit when
the arm is in motion. Contact with
the twine arm while it is rotating
can cause serious injury or can cause the person
to become trapped between the twine arm and
the unit, which can cause serious injury or death.
Keep all bystanders, especially children away from
the unit while it is operating.
1. Press and hold the lever/control for the “Twine Arm
Forward” circuit to rotate the twine arm, to the position
shown, approximately three feet from the knotter.
2. Stop the machine
CRUSHING HAZARD
Stop the
machine on
flat ground before leaving the machine and/or
continuing the twine threading operation, always
make sure the machine’s engine is stopped, the
ignition key is removed, all controls are placed in
neutral, the parking brake is set, and all hydraulic
fluid pressure is relieved (zero pressure). Failure
to follow these instructions can result in serious
injury.
3. Place the twine spool in the box on top of the unit.
NOTE: A plastic twine with a 9000-130 rating is
recommended for this unit. In many cases two rolls
of twine can be spliced together by tying a small
knot and trimming the ends as close as possible to
the knot. This small knot will in most cases thread
through the eyelets.
4. Thread the twine through the tension bars (4) and
through the rst twine eyelet.
5. Thread the twine through the two eyelets (5) on the
twine arm as shown.
6. Thread the twine through the needle assembly (6).
7. Tie the end of the twine to one of the frame
members (7), as shown.
3’
KN408-84
STOP
0
STOP
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION