Maxim PH50B User manual

PH50B
800-621-2789 PH50B Rev A.4 Page 1
Owner’s Manual MPH50BA.4
WARNING
USE EXTREME CAUTION WHILE USING THIS EQUIPMENT. INJURY CAN OCCUR.
READ CAREFULLY AND UNDERSTAND ALL ASSEMBLY AND SAFE OPERATION
INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE SAFETY RULES
AND OTHER BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY.

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Table of Contents
1INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.1 ...Application ............................................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 ...Benefits....................................................................................................................................................................................5
1.3 ...Navigating This Manual..................................................................................................................................................5
1.4 ...Warnings and Safety Precautions ..............................................................................................................................5
1.5 ...Operation References/Terminology ..........................................................................................................................7
1.6 ...Owner Assistance................................................................................................................................................................7
1.7 ...Model Identification..........................................................................................................................................................8
1.8 ...Further Assistance .............................................................................................................................................................8
2SAFETY ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 ...General Safety Rules..........................................................................................................................................................8
2.2 ...PRODUCT-SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES ......................................................................................................................10
2.3 ...ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ..............................................................................................................................10
2.4 ...Safety Decals......................................................................................................................................................................14
2.5 ...Training ...............................................................................................................................................................................15
2.6 ...Preparation ........................................................................................................................................................................15
2.7 ...Operation ............................................................................................................................................................................15
2.8 ...Maintenance and Storage ...........................................................................................................................................17
3PARTS BREAKDOWN........................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1 ...Parts List..............................................................................................................................................................................19
3.2 ...General Information.......................................................................................................................................................
20
4ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................................................ 20
4.1 ...Handle Assembly..............................................................................................................................................................20
4.2 ...Throttle Control & Manual holder Installation.................................................................................................21
4.3 ...Ensure the handle is at desired height and tighten all recently installed hardware: .....................21
4.4 ...Clutch Cable Installation..............................................................................................................................................21
4.5 ...Front Wheel Installation..............................................................................................................................................22
4.6 ...Final Set-up ........................................................................................................................................................................22
4.7 ...Before Starting Unit .......................................................................................................................................................23
4.8 ...To Start Unit ......................................................................................................................................................................23
4.9 ...To Stop Unit........................................................................................................................................................................23

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4.10 .Handle Adjustment .........................................................................................................................................................23
5OPERATING CONTROLS ..................................................................................................................................... 23
5.1 ...Speed .....................................................................................................................................................................................23
5.2 ...Throttle Control Lever...................................................................................................................................................24
5.3 ...Engage Lever .....................................................................................................................................................................24
6OPERATION ............................................................................................................................................................. 24
6.1 ...Before Operating .............................................................................................................................................................24
6.2 ...Starting the Engine.........................................................................................................................................................25
6.3 ...Pre-Start ..............................................................................................................................................................................25
6.4 ...Filling Fuel Tank ..............................................................................................................................................................25
6.5 ...Checking and adding Oil ..............................................................................................................................................26
6.6 ...Starting Procedure .........................................................................................................................................................26
6.7 ...Stopping Engine ...............................................................................................................................................................26
6.8 ...Operation ............................................................................................................................................................................27
6.9 ...Operation Tips ..................................................................................................................................................................27
7ADJUSTMENTS........................................................................................................................................................ 28
7.1 ...Clutch Adjustment...........................................................................................................................................................28
7.2 ...Handle Height Adjustment..........................................................................................................................................28
7.3 ...Plow Height Adjustment and Front Wheel Adjustment.................................................................................29
8Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................ 29
8.1 ...Periodic Check...................................................................................................................................................................
29
8.2 ...Engine Oil ............................................................................................................................................................................29
8.3 ...Dual Filter Element Air Cleaner................................................................................................................................30
8.4 ...Belt Replacement.............................................................................................................................................................30
8.5 ...Cleaning ...............................................................................................................................................................................30
9LUBRICATION......................................................................................................................................................... 31
9.1 ...Wheel Chain and Bearings ..........................................................................................................................................31
9.2 ...Clutch Lever Pivots..........................................................................................................................................................31
9.3 ...Idler Arms Pivot................................................................................................................................................................31
10 STORAGE................................................................................................................................................................... 31
10.1 .Engine ...................................................................................................................................................................................31
10.2 .Plow .......................................................................................................................................................................................31
11 TRANSPORTING..................................................................................................................................................... 31

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12 WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................................................. 32
12.1 .Warranty/Product Registration ..............................................................................................................................32
⚠
WARNING
READ ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE MACHINE
If incorrectly used, this machine can cause severe injury. Those who use and maintain this machine
should be trained in its proper use, warned of its dangers, and should read the entire manual before
attempting to set up, operate, adjust, or service this machine.
Read and keep this manual for future reference. This manual contains important information on
SAFETY, ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE. The owner must be certain that all the product
information is included with the unit. This information includes the MANUAL, the REPLACEMENT
PARTS and the WARRANTIES. This information must be included to make sure state laws and other
laws are followed. This manual should remain with the product even if it is resold.
⚠
WARNING
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARMS.
IMPORTANT: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or
near any unimproved forest-covered, brush covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local laws (if any). If a spark arrester is
used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California, a spark arrester is required by law (section 4442 of the California public
resources code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. See your
authorized service center for a spark arrester.

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1INTRODUCTION
Plows like a mule without the kick! Maxim’s Plow Hoss is a one-wheel garden cultivator with a
selection of plows - does everything a mule and plow used to do only faster. With all steel
construction and simplicity of maintenance and operation, count on years of weed control.
Please read this entire manual before assembly and use. The manufacturer reserves the right
to change, alter or improve the product and this document at any time without prior notice.
1.1 Application
This one wheel, garden cultivator comes with a selection of plows. With all steel construction and
simplicity of maintenance and operation, you can count on years of weed control.
1.2 Benefits
•Heavy-duty construction
•14-gauge steel handles
•6-12 Super Sure Grip tractor wheels that can be filled with water for great traction
•Equipped with furrower to make rows, turn shovel to build up rows, sweep to remove
weeds
1.3 Navigating This Manual
1. Use this manual to help familiarize yourself with safety, assembly, operation,
adjustments, troubleshooting, maintenance, specifications and warranty information. It
is very important that you read this manual and follow the instructions to ensure safe
operation of the attachment.
2. Please visit www.maximmfg.com for updated information.
1.4 Warnings and Safety Precautions
The safety of our customers and other’s well-being is very important to us. Using this equipment
is an important responsibility. Accurate assembly and safe and effective use of the machine is the
owner’s responsibility.
•Read and follow all safety instructions
•Carefully follow all assembly instructions
•Maintain the machine according to directions and schedule included in this manual.
•Ensure that anyone who uses the machine is familiar with all controls and safety
precautions.
SPECIAL MESSAGES
Your manual contains special message to bring attention to potential safety concerns, machine
damage as well as helpful operating and servicing information. Please read all the information
carefully to avoid injury and machine damage. This information alerts you to potential hazards
that could hurt you or others.

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NOTE: General information is given throughout the manual that may help the operator in the
operation or service of the machine.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
1. Safety labels – on the plow
2. Safety messages – preceded by a safety alert symbol ⚠and one of the three signal
words: DANGER, WARNING, OR CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
DANGER: You will be killed or seriously injured if you don’t follow instructions
WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t follow instructions.
CAUTION: You can be injured if you don’t follow instructions.
⚠
DANGER
⚠
WARNING
WARNING INDICATED A HAZARD WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE
⚠
CAUTION
CAUTION INDICATED YOU CAN BE HURT OR YOUR EQUIPMENT DAMAGED IF THE
SAFETY INSTUCTIONS THAT FOLLOW THIS SIGNAL WORD ARE NOT OBEYED.
⚠
WARNING
CALIFONINA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE
OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM.

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⚠This symbol points out important safety instructions which if not followed could endanger
your personal safety. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this equipment.
BEFORE OPERATING ENGINE:
Please read this section carefully. Read entire operating and maintenance instructions for this
product. Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or death. Operate the
machine according to the safety instructions outlined here and inserted throughout the text.
Anyone who uses this machine must read the instructions and be familiar with the controls.
Intended Use / Foreseeable Misuse
IMPORTANT: This is a motorized single wheeled plow that works the soil by means of plowing
through soil. It is pedestrian-controlled, self-propelled with a gasoline-fueled internal combustion
engine to power the single wheel. It shall not be used for any other purpose.
1.5 Operation References/Terminology
References throughout this manual referred to as “Right” or “Left” are determined
by being face-standing behind plow and facing the direction the unit will operate
while in use.
1.6 Owner Assistance
Please complete the Warranty/Product Registration at the time of purchase. You will need to
complete the warranty/product registration form (pg. 33) with your new unit, or you may visit our
website www.maximmfg.com and complete our online product registration form. We require
this information, so we can keep you updated with any important information about your plow
and provide you with the best customer service possible.
The parts and components used on your Maxim plow have been specifically engineered for
Maxim plow and should only be replaced with Maxim parts. Contact your local Maxim Dealer for
OEM replacement parts or contact our customer service department for assistance in parts,
⚠
WARNING
YOU MUST READ, UNDERSTAND AND COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SETUP AND OPERATE YOUR
MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY AND OPERATIING INSTRUCTIONS CAN RESULT IN
LOSS OF MACHINE CONTROL, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY TO YOU AND/OR
BYSTANDERS, AND RISK OF EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. THE TRIANGLE IN THE
TEXT SIGNIFIES IMPORATNT CAUTIONS OR WARNINGS WHICH MUST BE FOLLOWED
Left
Right

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locating your local servicing dealer and more. Your local dealer is equipped and trained to handle
service and repair for your plow.
1.7 Model Identification
Please fill in your model and serial number below for future reference. This will help assist in
prompt service when ordering parts and service from your local Maxim Dealer.
Plow Model No.___________________ Plow Serial No. ______________________________
Engine Model No.__________________ Engine Serial No.
_____________________________
Refer to the image below for location of your serial number plate:
1.8 Further Assistance
Your dealer and all of us at Maxim want you to be pleased with your plow. Should you require
further assistance or have questions regarding your plow, please contact your local dealer where
you purchased your plow. If you are unable to satisfy your needs by your local dealer, please
contact us at:
Maxim
20195 South Diamond Lake Road, STE 100
Rogers, MN 55374
800-621-2789
www.maximmfg.com
2SAFETY
2.1 General Safety Rules
•Read, understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s). Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and proper use of the machine before starting.
•Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
Engine Serial Number
Plow Serial Number

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•Familiarize yourself with all of the safety and operating decals on this equipment and on
any of its attachments or accessories.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under wheel or plow attachments/parts.
•Only allow responsible individuals who are familiar with the instructions to operate the
machine. Do not allow children to operate this machine. Do not allow adults to operate
the machine without proper instruction.
•Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be used and remove all foreign
objects. Your equipment can propel small objects at high speed causing personal injury or
property damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such as house windows,
automobiles, greenhouse, etc.
•Wear appropriate clothing such as sturdy, rough-soled shoes (steel toe recommended)
and close-fitting pants and shirt. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry can be caught in moving
parts. Never wear shorts. Never wear sandals, sneakers or open shoes, and never
operate the machine with bare feet.
•Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught in moving parts. Always keep
hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and machine.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating the
machine to protect your eyes from foreign objects which can be thrown from the unit.
•Always wear a protective hearing device.
•Always wear work gloves and sturdy rugged soled footwear. Wear footwear that will
improve footing on slippery surfaces. Leather work shoes or short boots work well for
most people. These will protect the operator’s ankles and shins from small sticks,
splinters, and other debris.
•It is advisable to wear protective headgear to prevent the possibility of being struck by
small flying particles, or being struck by low hanging branches, twigs or other objects
which may be unnoticed by the operator.
•Do not operate the machine without proper guards or other safety protective devices in
place.
•See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only
use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
•Operate only in daylight.
•Do not operate product when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other
medication which can cause drowsiness or affect your ability to operate machine safely.
•Never operate machine in wet soil/grass. Always be sure of your footing; keep a firm hold
on the handle and walk; never run.
•Watch for traffic when operating plow near, or when crossing roads.
•If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor), push the
ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.
•Regularly inspect the machine. Make sure parts are not bent, damaged or loose.

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•Temperature of muffler and nearby areas may exceed 150° F (65° C). Allow muffler and
engine areas to cool before touching.
•Never pick up or carry the machine while the engine is running.
•Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline engine-powered equipment
should be avoided. Take intermittent breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine
noise as well as heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in hands.
•Keep all screws, nuts and bolts tight.
•Do not transport the machine from one place to another with the engine running.
•Always turn off fuel supply valve on engine before transport.
•When moving the packaged machine, always do so with a partner.
•Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this machine.
2.2 PRODUCT-SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
•Do not plow above underground utilities, including water lines, gas lines, electric cables or
pipe. Contact appropriate utility representatives to determine if/where electrical
cables, gas lines, water lines, etc. are buried BEFORE operation.
•Do not operate the machine on terrain/soil with large rocks and foreign objects which can
damage the equipment.
•After striking a foreign object, stop the engine. push the ON/OFF switch, mounted on
engine, to the OFF position. Inspect the machine for damage. If damaged, repair before
starting and operating the machine.
•The plow should not move when the engine is idling. If they do, contact your local dealer
or Maxim technical service for instruction.
•If an object becomes lodged in the plow, push the ON/OFF switch, mounted on engine, to
the OFF position, then allow the machine to cool before attempting to remove the foreign
object.
•The idler and belt will transfer maximum power after about two hours of normal
operation. During this break-in period clutch slippage may occur. The clutch should be
kept free of oil or other moisture for efficient operation.
2.3 ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
⚠Warning Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless, poisonous gas. Carbon monoxide may
be present even if you do not smell or see any engine exhaust. Breathing carbon monoxide can
cause nausea, fainting or death, in addition to drowsiness, dizziness and confusion. If you
experience any of these symptoms, seek fresh air and medical attention immediately.