McConnel PA 48 User manual

PA 48
HEDGE/GRASS CUTTER
Operator Manual
Publication 469
December 2004
Part No. 41570.69

IMPORTANT
VERIFICATION OF WARRANTY REGISTRATION
(Applies to UK Machines only)
UK DEALER WARRANTY INFORMATION & REGISTRATION VERIFICATION
It is imperative that the selling dealer registers this machine with McConnel Limited within 7
days of delivery to the end user – failure to do so may affect the validity of the machine
warranty.
To register a machine go to the McConnel Limited web site at www.mcconnel.com, log on
to ‘DEALER INSIDE’ and select the ‘Machine Registration button’which can be found in
the Service Section of the site. Confirm to the customer that the machine has been
registered in the section below.
Should you experience any problems registering a machine in this manner please contact
the McConnel Service Department on 01584 875848.
Registration Verification (UK Machines)
Dealer Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………..
Dealer Address: …………………………………………………………………………………..
Customer Name: …………………………………………………………………………………
Date of Warranty Registration: ……/……/...…… Dealer Signature: ………………………
NOTE TO CUSTOMER / OWNER
Please ensure that the above section above has been completed and signed by the selling
dealer to verify that your machine has been registered with McConnel Limited.

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Conforming to EEC Machinery Directive 98/37/EC*
We,
McCONNEL LIMITED,
Temeside Works, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1JL.
Declare under our sole responsibility that:
The product (type) ……………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….
Product Code …………………………………………………………………………..
Serial No. & Date ……………………………………. Type …………………………
Manufactured by the above company/* ………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….
(* insert business name and full address if not stated above)
Complies with the required provisions of the Machinery Directive 98/37/EC, *
previously Directive 89/392/EEC as amended by Directives 91/368/EEC, 93/44/EEC
and 93/68/EEC.
The machinery directive is supported by;
•BS EN ISO 12100:2003 Safety of Machinery. This standard is made up of two
parts; Part 1 Terminology, methodology, Part 2 Technical Specifications.
•BS EN 1050 Safety of machinery - Principles of risk assessment.
•and other national standards associated with its design and construction as
listed in the Technical File.
The Machinery Directive is fully implemented into UK law by means of the Supply of
Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/3073) as amended by The Supply of
Machinery (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/2063).
Signed …………………………..…………………………………………………….……..
on behalf of McCONNEL LIMITED Responsible Person
Status: Chief Design Engineer Date: 15th November 2004

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Conforming to EEC Machinery Directive 98/37/EC*
We,
McCONNEL LIMITED,
Temeside Works, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1JL.
Declare under our sole responsibility that:
The product (type) ……………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….
Product Code …………………………………………………………………………..
Serial No. & Date ……………………………………. Type …………………………
Manufactured by the above company/* ………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….
(* insert business name and full address if not stated above)
Complies with the required provisions of the Machinery Directive 98/37/EC, *
previously Directive 89/392/EEC as amended by Directives 91/368/EEC, 93/44/EEC
and 93/68/EEC.
The machinery directive is supported by;
•BS EN ISO 12100:2003 Safety of Machinery. This standard is made up of two
parts; Part 1 Terminology, methodology, Part 2 Technical Specifications.
•BS EN 1050 Safety of machinery - Principles of risk assessment.
•and other national standards associated with its design and construction as
listed in the Technical File.
The Machinery Directive is fully implemented into UK law by means of the Supply of
Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992 (SI 1992/3073) as amended by The Supply of
Machinery (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/2063).
Signed …………………………..…………………………………………………….……..
on behalf of McCONNEL LIMITED Responsible Person
Status: Chief Design Engineer Date: 15th November 2004

READ THE BOOK FIRST
It might save hours and pounds later !
When ordering spare parts always quote
•The Machine Type
•The Machine Serial Number
•The Part Number
Factory re-built service exchange units of the major
hydraulic components are available from your Dealer
NOISE
The equivalent daily personal noise exposure from this machine, measured at the
operators’ ear, is within the range 78 – 85 DB.
These figures apply to a normal distribution of use where the noise fluctuates between
zero and maximum. The figures assume that the machine is fitted to a tractor with a
quiet cab with the windows closed in a generally open environment. We recommend that
the windows are kept closed.
With the cab rear window open the equivalent daily personal noise exposure will
increase to a figure within the range 82 – 88 DB.
A
t equivalent daily noise exposure levels of between 85 and 90 DB, ear protection is
recommended, it should be used if any window is left open.

LIST OF CONTENTS Page No.
GENERAL INFORMATION 1
INTRODUCTION 2
SAFETY INFORMATION 4
FITTING - Tractor Selection 9
Linkage Requirements 9
Linkage Isolation 9
Check Chains/Stabilsers 9
Tractor Relief Valve 9
Tractor Hydraulic Flow Rates 9
PTO Shaft 9
Tractor Preparation 10
Operator Guard Fitting 10
Wheel Width 10
Ballast Weight 10
Lift Links 10
Closed Centre Conversion Kit – Si Models 11
Oil Requirements 12
Delivery 13
Attachment to Tractor 13
Fitting Control Unit in Cab 16
Running Up Procedure 18
Removal from Tractor 19
Storage 19
OPERATION 20
Limitation 20
Operator Guard 20
Preparation 20
Machine Controls 21
Cable Controls 21
Electric Switchbox Controls 21
Machine Controls – Arm & Head Movement 22
Electric Monolever Controls 23
Proportional Electric Controls 23
Machine Controls – Arm & Head Movement 24
Rotor Control 25
Moving into the Transport Position 26
Moving from Transport to Work Position 26
Engaging Drive 26
Rotor Operating Speed 27
Forward Speed 27
Highway Working 27
Working Practices 28
Breakaway 28
Wire Trap 29
Removing Wire from Rotor 29
Overhead Obstructions 29
High Voltage Cables 29

LIST OF CONTENTS (Continued) Page No.
Hedge Cutting Procedure 30
Preliminary Precautions 30
Upward Cutting 30
Downward Cutting 30
Reversing Rotation – SI Models 31
Reversing Rotation – TI Models 31
Grass Cutting 31
Roller Positions 32
Hedge Cutting sequence 33
Lift Float Kit – Optional Extra 34
Angle Float – Optional Extra on Electric Models only 35
MAINTENANCE 36
Lubrication 36
General 36
PTO Shaft 36
Hydraulic System 37
Flail Head 38
Cables 38
Hydraulic Hoses 39
Gearbox 39
Hose Connections 40
Main Control Valve – Cable Models 40
Main Control Valve – Electric Models 41
Rotor Valves 42
Debris Blower 43
Debris Blower Bracket Attachment 43

1
GENERAL INFORMATION
Read this manual before fitting or operating the machine. Whenever any doubt exists contact
your dealer or the McConnel Service Department for assistance.
Use only McConnel Genuine spare parts on McConnel equipment and machines.
DEFINITIONS - The following definitions apply throughout this manual:
WARNING
An operating procedure, technique etc., which can result in personal injury or loss of life if not
observed carefully.
CAUTION
An operating procedure, technique etc., which can result in the damage of either machine or
equipment if not observed carefully.
NOTE
An operating procedure, technique etc., which is considered essential to emphasise.
LEFT AND RIGHT HAND
This term is applicable to the machine when fitted to the tractor and viewed from the rear. This
also applies to tractor references.
Record the Serial Number of your machine on this page and always quote this number when ordering
parts. Whenever information concerning the machine is requested remember to also state the type
and model of tractor on which the machine is fitted.
Machine Serial No. Installation Date:
Machine Model Details:
Dealer Name:
Dealer Address:
Dealer Telephone No:

2
INTRODUCTION – Model Specifications
PA48 SERIES – All Models
Linkage Mounted.
Right or Left Hand Cutting.
1.2M Heavy Duty Flailhead - Hedge or Grass.
Spring assisted gravity breakaway.
Operator Guard.
41 gallon (187 litre) Hydraulic Reservoir.
PA48 SI Models
Semi Independent Hydraulics
(Tractor powers the arm movements, PTO pump powers the rotor).
Cable Controls.
Rotor engagement by tractor's PTO lever.
54HP Hydraulic System.
PA48 TI Models
Totally Independent Hydraulics powered by Tandem PTO Pump.
Cable Controls.
Independent Reversible Rotor On/Off Valve.
54HP Hydraulic System.
PA48E TI Models
Totally Independent Hydraulics powered by Tandem PTO Pump.
Electric Controls - solenoid operated.
Choice of Control Units - Switchbox, Monolever or Proportional
Independent Reversible Rotor On/Off Valve.
54HP Hydraulic System.

3

SAFETY
INFORMATION
This machine has the potential to be extremely dangerous, in the wrong hands it can kill or
maim. It is therefore imperative that the owner, and the operator of this machine, read the
following section to ensure that they are both fully aware of the dangers that do, or may exist,
and their responsibilities surrounding its use.
The operator of this machine is responsible not only for their own safety but equally for the
safety of others who may come into the close proximity of the machine, as the owner you are
responsible for both.
POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANT DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF THIS MACHINE:
●Being hit by debris thrown by rotating components.
●Being hit by machine parts ejected through damage during use.
●Being caught on a rotating power take-off (PTO) shaft.
●Being caught in other moving parts i.e.: belts, pulleys and cutting heads.
●Electrocution from Overhead Power Lines (by contact with or ‘flashover’ from).
●Being hit by cutting heads or machine arms as they move.
●Becoming trapped between tractor and machine when hitching or unhitching.
●Tractor overbalancing when machine arm is extended.
●Injection of high-pressure oil from hydraulic hoses or couplings.
●Machine overbalancing when freestanding (out of use).
●Road traffic accidents due to collision or debris on the road.
4

5
BEFORE USING THIS MACHINE YOU MUST:
●Ensure you read all sections of the operator handbook.
●Ensure the operator is, or has been, properly trained to use the machine.
●Ensure the operator has been issued with and reads the operator handbook.
●Ensure the operator understands and follows the instructions in operator handbook.
●Ensure the tractor front, rear and side(s) are fitted with metal mesh or polycarbonate guards
of suitable size and strength to protect the operator against thrown debris or parts.
●Ensure tractor guards are fitted correctly, are undamaged and kept properly maintained.
●Ensure that all machine guards are in position, are undamaged, and are kept maintained in
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
●Ensure flails and their fixings are of a type recommended by the manufacturer, are securely
attached and that none are missing or damaged.
●Ensure hydraulic pipes are carefully and correctly routed to avoid damage by chaffing,
stretching or pinching and that they are held in place with the correct fittings.
●Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attachment and removal of the machine
from the tractor.
●Check that the machine fittings and couplings are in good condition.
●Ensure the tractor meets the minimum weight recommendations of the machine
manufacturer and that ballast is used as necessary.
●Always inspect the work area thoroughly before starting to note obstacles and remove wire,
bottles, cans and other debris.
●Use clear suitably sized warning signs to alert others to the nature of the machine working
within that area. Signs should be placed at both ends of the work site. (It is recommended
that signs used are of a size and type specified by the Department of Transport and
positioned in accordance with their and the Local Highways Authority guidelines).
●Ensure the operator is protected from noise. Ear defenders should be worn and tractor cab
doors and windows must be kept closed. Machine controls should be routed through
proprietary openings in the cab to enable all windows to be shut fully.
●Always work at a safe speed taking account of the conditions i.e.: terrain, highway proximity
and obstacles around and above the machine.
●Extra special attention should be applied to Overhead Power Lines. Some of our machines
are capable of reach in excess of 8 metres (26 feet) this means they have the potential to
well exceed, by possibly 3 metres (9’ 9”), the lowest legal minimum height of 5.2 metres from
the ground for 11,000 and 33,000 volt power lines. It cannot be stressed enough the dangers
maximum height and reach of the machine, and that they are fully conversant with all aspects
that surround this capability, it is therefore vital that the operator is fully aware of the
regarding the safe minimum distances that apply when working with machines in close
proximity to Power Lines. (Further information on this subject can be obtained from the Health
& Safety Executive or your Local Power Company).
●Always disengage the machine, kill the tractor engine, remove and pocket the key before
dismounting for any reason.

6
●Always clear up all debris left at the work area, it may cause hazard to others.
●Always ensure when you remove your machine from the tractor that it is left in a safe and
stable position using the stands and props provided and secured if necessary.
WHEN NOT TO USE THIS MACHINE:
●Never attempt to use this machine if you have not been trained to do so.
●Never uses a machine until you have read and understood the operator handbook, are
familiar with, and practiced the controls.
●Never use a machine that is poorly maintained.
●Never use a machine if guards are missing or damaged.
●Never use a machine on which the hydraulic system shows signs of wear or damage.
●Never fit, or use, a machine on a tractor that does not meet the manufacturer’s minimum
specification level.
●Never use a machine fitted to a tractor that does not have suitable front, rear and side(s) cab
guarding made of metal mesh or polycarbonate.
●Never use the machine if the tractor cab guarding is damaged, deteriorating or badly fitted.
●Never turn a machine cutting head to an angle that causes debris to be ejected towards the
cab.
●Never start or continue to work a machine if people are nearby or approaching - Stop and
wait until they are at a safe distance before continuing. WARNING: Some Cutting Heads
may continue to ‘freewheel’ for up to 40 seconds after being stopped.
●Never attempt to use a machine on materials in excess of its capability.
●Never use a machine to perform a task it has not been designed to do.
●Never operate the tractor or machine controls from any position other than from the driving
seat, especially whilst hitching or unhitching the machine.
●Never carry out maintenance of a machine or a tractor whilst the engine is running – the
engine should be switched off, the key removed and pocketed.
●Never leave a machine unattended in a raised position – it should be lowered to the ground
in a safe position on a level firm site.
●Never leave a tractor with the key in or the engine running.
●Never carry out maintenance on any part or component of a machine that is raised unless
that part or component has been properly substantially braced or supported.
●Never attempt to detect a hydraulic leak with your hand – use a piece of cardboard.
●Never allow children near to, or play on, a tractor or machine under any circumstances.

7
ADDITIONAL SAFETY ADVICE
Training
Operators need to be competent and fully capable of operating this machine in a safe and
efficient way prior to attempting to use it in any public place. We advise therefore that the
prospective operator make use of relevant training courses available such as those run by the
Agricultural Training Board, Agricultural Colleges, Dealers and McConnel.
Working in Public Places
When working in public places such as roadsides, consideration should be paid to others in the
vicinity. Stop the machine immediately when pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders etc. pass.
Restart only when they are at a distance that causes no risk to their safety.
Warning Signs
It is advisable that any working area be covered by suitable warning signs and statutory in
public places. Signs should be highly visible and well placed in order to give clear advanced
warning of the hazard. Contact the Department of Transport or your Local Highways Authority to
obtain detailed information on this subject. The latter should be contacted prior to working on
the public highway advising them of the time and location of the intended work asking what is
required by way of signs and procedure. – ‘Non-authorised placement of road signs may create
offences under the Highways Act’.
Suggested Warning Signs Required
“Road works ahead” warning sign with a supplementary “Hedge cutting” plate. “For 1 mile”
or appropriate shorter distance may be added to the plate.
“Road narrows” warning sign with supplementary “Single file traffic” plate.
White on blue “Keep right” (*) arrow sign on rear of machine.
* Note – this applies to UK Market machines where traffic passes to the right of a machine
working in the same direction as the traffic flow. The direction, use and colour of the arrow sign
will depend on the country of use and the Local Highway Authorities regulations in the locality.
Use of Warning Signs
•On two-way roads one set of signs is needed facing traffic in each direction.
•Work should be within 1 mile of the signs.
•Work only when visibility is good and at times of low risk e.g.: NOT during ‘rush-hour’.
•Vehicles should have an amber-flashing beacon.
•Ideally, vehicles should be conspicuously coloured.
•Debris should be removed from the road and path as soon as practicable, and at regular
intervals, wearing high visibility clothing and before removing the hazard warning signs.
•Collect all road signs promptly when the job is completed.
Although the information given here covers a wide range of safety subjects it is impossible to predict
every eventuality that can occur under differing circumstances whilst operating this machine. No advice
given here can replace ‘good common sense’ and ‘total awareness’ at all times but will go a long way
towards the safe use of your McConnel machine.

VEHICLE/ TRACTOR PREPARATION
We recommend vehicles are fitted with cabs
using ‘safety glass’ windows and protective
guarding when used with our machines.
8
Fit Operator Guard (part no. 73 13 324) using
the hooks provided. Shape mesh to cover all
vulnerable areas.
Remember the driver must be looking through
mesh and/or polycarbonate glazing when
viewing the flail head in any working position - unless the vehicle/ cab manufacturer can
demonstrate that the penetration resistance is equivalent to, or higher than, that provided by
mesh/polycarbonate glazing. If the tractor has a roll bar only, a frame must be made to carry
both mesh and polycarbonate glazing. The operator should also use personal protective
equipment to reduce the risk of serious injury such as; eye protection (mesh visor to EN1731 or
safety glasses to EN166), hearing protection to EN352, safety helmet to EN297, gloves, filter
mask and high visibility clothing.
Vehicle Ballast: It is imperative when attaching ‘third-party’ equipment to a vehicle that the
maximum possible stability of the machine and vehicle combination is achieved – this can be
accomplished by the utilisation of ‘ballast’ in order to counter-balance the additional equipment
added.
Front weights may be required for rear mounted machines to place 15% of total outfit weight
on the front axle for stable transport on the road and to reduce ‘crabbing’ due to the drag of the
cutting unit when working on the ground.
Rear weights may be required to maintain a reasonable amount of rear axle load on the
opposite wheel from the arms when in work; for normal off-ground work i.e. hedge cutting this
should be 20% of rear axle weight or more for adequate control, and for ground work i.e. verge
mowing with experienced operators, this can be reduced to 10%.
All factors must be addressed in order to match the type and nature of the equipment added to
the circumstances under which it will be used – in the instance of Power Arm Hedgecutters it
must be remembered that the machines centre of gravity during work will be constantly moving
and will differ from that during transport mode, therefore balance becomes critical.
Factors that effect stability:
●Centre of gravity of the tractor/machine combination.
●Geometric conditions, e.g. position of the cutting head and ballast.
●Weight, track width and wheelbase of the tractor.
●Acceleration, braking, turning and the relative position of the cutting head during these
operations.
●Ground conditions, e.g. slope, grip, load capability of the soil/surface.
●Rigidity of implement mounting.
Suggestions to increase stability:
●Increasing rear wheel track; a vehicle with a wider wheel track is more stable.
●Ballasting the wheel; it is preferable to use external weights but liquid can be added to
around 75% of the tyre volume – water with anti-freeze or the heavier Calcium Chloride
alternative can be used.
●Addition of weights – care should be taken in selecting the location of the weights to ensure
they are added to a position that offers the greatest advantage.
●Front axle locking, check with tractor manufacturer.
The advice above is offered as a guide for stability only and is not a guide to vehicle strength. It
is therefore recommended that you consult your vehicle manufacturer or local dealer to obtain
specific advise on this subject, additionally advice should be sought from a tyre specialist with
regard to tyre pressures and ratings suitable for the type and nature of the machine you intend
to fit.

9
FITTING – Tractor Selection
Linkage requirements
The Power Arms will fit almost any tractor with a category II linkage.
Linkage isolation
A linkage isolation facility is necessary for SI models only.
Check chains/stabilisers
Check chains or stabiliser bars must be fitted and tightened.
Tractor relief valve
For Si models only tractor relief valve must be set above 2000 psi (140 bar)
Tractor hydraulic flow rate
Hydraulic flow rates are not crucial for SI models
P.T.O. shaft
Tractor must be equipped with live drive independent PTO shaft to enable forward movement to
be halted while the flail head continues to operate.

TRACTOR PREPARATION
Fitting Operator Guard
Use tractor with safety glass
windows and fit Operator guard
(part no. 73 13 324) using the hooks
provided.
Shape mesh to cover all vulnerable
areas.
Remember the driver must be
looking through mesh at the flail
head in any working position.
If the windows are not laminated
safety glass polycarbonate glazing
must also be fitted.
If the tractor has a roll bar only, a frame must be made to carry both mesh and polycarbonate
glazing.
Wheel Width
Set wheel widths as wide as possible – see page 9.
Ballast Weight
Add ballast weight whenever necessary within the tractor manufacturers recommended limits to
ensure maximum stability under all working conditions – see page 9.
Lift Links
Adjust lift links until they are equal length.
10

CLOSED CENTRE CONVERSION KIT - SI Models only
A Control Valve Conversion Kit (Part No. 8130059) consists of a relief valve-blanking plug,
which should be installed in place of the existing relief valve, and a pressure gallery blanking
plug, which is installed in place of the standard blanking plug at the valve outlet end next to the
lift ram gland connection.
NOTE: Take care when extracting the relief valve not to damage the copper sealing washer,
as it is to be re-used.
When working in this mode the tractor's pressure control valve must not exceed 2500 P.S.I
(170 Bar).
11