Meyer's VB185 User manual

Manufactured in DORCHESTER, WI by:
MEYER’S EQUIPMENT
Mfg. Corp
INSTRUCTION AND PARTS BOOK –Rev. B1
HEAVY DUTY MANURE SPREADERS
MODEL: VB185
DO NOT –Operate This Spreader Until You Have
Completely Read This Book!
NEVER –Repair or Clean This Spreader While PTO
is Engaged!

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MODEL: VB185
MODEL SPECIFICATIONS
Width of Box Inside
61”
Overall Width
115”
Length of Box Inside
159”
Depth
32”
Overall Length
21’ 6”
Overall Height (Front)
105-1/2”
Ground Clearance
15”
App. Capacity (Struck Cu. Ft.)
185
App. Weight (lbs.)
7200
Loading Height
69-1/2”
Apron Chain (Standard)
Single #67P11
Beaters
Twin Ø30” Vertical Beaters
w/ 10MM Thick Spiral Flighting
Spindle Diameter
3-1/8”
Spindle/Hub Load Rating - Each
12,000 lbs.
Tire Size (Standard)
425-65R x 22.5
PTO Speed
Optional 540 RPM or 1000 RPM
Min. Tractor Horsepower
60 HP
Min. Hydraulic Flow
10 GPM

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MODEL: VB185
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Meyer’s Manure Spreader! With its optional equipment this is
the simplest, most flexible system on the market today. With proper use and preventative maintenance, it will give
you many years of trouble-free operation.
•At the front of this manual is a Product Registration and Inspection Certificate. Be sure your dealer has
completed this certificate and forwarded a copy to the manufacturer to validate the manufacturer’s warranty.
•The product model and serial number are recorded on this certificate for your convenience and for proper
identification of your spreader by your dealer and the manufacturer when ordering repair parts.
•The serial number plate is found on the upper left front corner of the spreader box or stamped in the left
channel at the front. For information on ordering repair parts, refer to the repair parts section of this manual.
Orders must list the complete description, correct part number, and total amount required.
•All references to right hand and left hand apply to the product as viewed from the rear of the machine and
facing the direction of forward travel.
•You are urged to study this manual and follow the instructions carefully. Your efforts will be repaid in better
operation and service as well as a savings in time and repair expense. Failure to read this manual and
understand the machine could lead to serious injury. If you do not understand instructions in this manual,
contact either your dealer or Meyer’s Equipment Manufacturing Corp.
This SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL means ATTENTION! BE CAREFUL! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED! It stresses an attitude of HEADS UP FOR SAFETY. When you see this symbol,
be alert to the possibility of PERSONAL INJURY and carefully read the message that follows.
WARNING:
NEVER OPERATE WITHOUT ALL COVERS, SHIELDS AND GUARDS IN PLACE. KEEP HANDS, FEET
AND CLOTHING AWAY FROM MOVING PARTS. SOME COVERS AND GUARDS IN THIS MANUAL
HAVE BEEN REMOVED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
Contact Information
Meyer’s Equipment Mfg. Corp.
P.O. Box 406
Dorchester, WI 54425
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: emcdorche[email protected]

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MODEL: VB185
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................3
SAFETY SYMBOLS....................................................................................................................................6
SAFETY SIGN LOCATIONS .......................................................................................................................6
SAFETY SIGNS & DECALS..........................................................................................................................8
MANURE SPREADER SAFETY..................................................................................................................10
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE....................................................................................11
PRE-OPERATION ..........................................................................................................................................12
GENERAL.............................................................................................................................................................. 12
TRACTOR HITCH AND PTOREQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................... 12
TRACTOR TOWING SIZE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................ 13
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM............................................................................................................................................. 13
Hydraulic System Options................................................................................................................................ 13
Setup for Open or Closed Center Hydraulic Systems ....................................................................................... 14
Electric Control Installation for Optional On-Board Flow Control System....................................................... 14
TRANSPORTING ................................................................................................................................................... 15
General ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
Safety Chain Use.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Use of Lights .................................................................................................................................................... 15
OPERATION .................................................................................................................................................16
TRACTOR HOOKUP .............................................................................................................................................. 16
LOADING.............................................................................................................................................................. 16
UNLOADING......................................................................................................................................................... 17
MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENTS, & LUBRICATION..........................................................................................18
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE......................................................................................... 18
WHEEL &TIRE MAINTENANCE............................................................................................................................. 18
Lock Ring Rim................................................................................................................................................... 18
REAR AUTOMATIC OVER-RUNNING CLUTCH....................................................................................................... 18
CLEANING AND STORAGE.................................................................................................................................... 19
ADJUSTMENTS..................................................................................................................................................... 20
LUBRICATION....................................................................................................................................................... 20

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MODEL: VB185
REPAIR PARTS..............................................................................................................................................22
FRAME &BOX PARTS ........................................................................................................................................... 22
HYDRAULIC END GATE &RELATED PARTS ........................................................................................................... 24
AXLES, WHEELS, SPINDLES &RELATED PARTS ..................................................................................................... 26
DRIVE TRAIN, VERTICAL BEATERS ........................................................................................................................ 28
DRIVE TRAIN, VERTICAL BEATERS ........................................................................................................................ 29
APRON &RELATED PARTS.................................................................................................................................... 30
VERTICAL BEATER HEAD ASSEMBLY..................................................................................................................... 32
VERTICAL BEATER GEARBOX &RELATED PARTS.................................................................................................. 34
VERTICAL BEATER LUBRICATION KIT.................................................................................................................... 36
APRON DRIVE GEARBOX ...................................................................................................................................... 38
PTO DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY, TRAILER TO TRACTOR .......................................................................................... 40
PTO DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY, REAR W/OVER-RUNNING CLUTCH....................................................................... 41
YOKE &CLUTCH HUB ASSEMBLY ......................................................................................................................... 42
OVER-RUNNING CLUTCH ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................... 43
STANDARD HIGHWAY LIGHTING .............................................................................ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, END GATE ...................................................................................................................... 45
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, STANDARD ....................................................................................................... 48
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, MANUAL FLOW CONTROL ............................................................................... 50
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, ELECTRIC FLOW CONTROL ............................................................................... 52
LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT.................................................................................................................54

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MODEL: VB185
SAFETY SYMBOLS
A brief definition of signal words that may be used in this manual:
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in
serious injury or death.
WARNING: 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.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
SAFETY SIGN LOCATIONS
SEE SAFETY SIGNS ON PAGES 8 & 9

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MODEL: VB185
CAUTION
IF ANY SAFETY SIGN BECOMES UNREADABLE FOR ANY REASON, THE SIGN MUST BE REPLACED
WITH A NEW SIGN. IF THE SPREADER IS REPAINTED, ALL SAFETY SIGNS MUST BE REPLACED.
CONTACT YOUR DEALER OR MEYER’S EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CORP. IF YOU REQUIRE
ANY SHIELD OR SIGNS FOR REPLACEMENT.

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MODEL: VB185
SAFETY SIGNS & DECALS

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MODEL: VB185

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MODEL: VB185
MANURE SPREADER SAFETY
THERE ARE INHERENT HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH THE OPERATION OF A MANURE SPREADER.
FOR YOUR SAFETY:
•Never Enter Spreader Box While In Operation For Any Reason.
•Only Properly Instructed People Should Operate The Spreader. Do Not Allow Children Or Inexperienced
Persons To Operate Spreader.
•Keep All Guards and Shields In Place. Moving Parts Can Crush And Dismember.
•Clear The Area Before Equipment Start Up.
•Keep Hands, Feet, and Loose Clothing Away From Moving Parts.
•Do Not Go Near The Spreader Beaters While Machine Is Operating.
•Make Sure The PTO Is Securely Locked To Both The Tractor And Spreader Before Operating The Unit.
•Do Not Operate The PTO At Speeds Higher Than The Manufacturers Recommendations.
•Highway Speed Is Not To Exceed 20 Mph. The Tires Supplied Are For Farm Use Only And Are Not
Designed For Use Above This Speed Unless Equipped With High Speed Highway/Off-Road Farm Tires.
•Use Adequate Safety Chains When Towing The Spreader.
•The Use of a Slow moving Vehicle Sign Is Required on All Public Roads Unless Equipped with Flashing
Hazard Lights. Obey All Applicable Highway Safety Laws And Rules.
•Always Use A Tractor Large Enough To Provide Sufficient Braking Assistance When Towing A Loaded
Spreader.
•Use Caution When Traveling Over Uneven Terrain And When Approaching Stops.
•Do Not Load The Spreader Unless It Is Hitched To The Tractor.
•Do Not Unhitch A Loaded Spreader From The Tractor, Leaving It Supported By Only The Jack.
•Park Your Spreader on Level Ground and Place Blocks Ahead Of and Behind The Wheels Before
Unhooking From Tractor To Avoid Unexpected Rolling When Separated From The Tractor.
•Do Not Allow Riders on Spreader.
FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH
THERE ARE ADDITIONAL HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITHTHE SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE OF YOUR
SPREADER.
FOR YOUR SAFETY:
•Inspect When First Delivered And Regularly Thereafter; That All Connections And Bolts Are Tight And
Secure Before Operating.
•Retighten All Wheel Bolts After The First Hour Of Towing. Check Periodically Thereafter. See Maintenance,
Wheels.
•Maintain Proper Tire Air Pressure At All Times. See Maintenance, Tires.
•Always Wear Eye Protection When Operating Or Servicing Spreader.
•Be Sure All Movement Has Stopped, The PTO Is Disconnected, The Tractor Is Shut Off And The Ignition
Key Is Removed Before Servicing The Spreader Or Components.
•Escaping Hydraulic Fluid Under Pressure Can Penetrate The Skin And Cause Serious Injury. Relieve All
Pressure From The Hydraulic System Before Connecting Or Disconnecting The Lines Or Making Repairs.
Check All Hoses and Fittings Before Start-up and Periodically During Operation.
•Never Make Any Alterations Or Modifications To This Equipment.
FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH

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MODEL: VB185
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE
BEFORE unclogging, cleaning, adjusting, lubricating or servicing the unit:
1. Disengage the tractor PTO.
2. Shut off the tractor engine, remove the ignition key and take it with you.
3. Wait for all movement to stop.
4. Remove the Telescoping PTO Drive and ALL power connections from the tractor.
ONLY when you have taken these precautions can you be sure it is safe to proceed. Failure to follow the
above procedure could lead to death or serious bodily injury.
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE YOUR NEW SPREADER BE SURE TO READ THIS OWNERS
MANUAL AND FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE MACHINE!! OBSERVE THE PRECAUTIONS IN THIS
MANUAL FOR SAFE OPERATION OF THIS MACHINE!!
Most farm accidents, like industrial, home and highway accidents, are caused by the failure
of some individuals to observe simple and fundamental safety rules or precautions. For this
reason farm accidents, just as other types of accidents, can be prevented by recognizing the
causes of accidents and doing something about them before an accident occurs.
Regardless of the care used in the design and construction of farm equipment, there are
many points that cannot be completely safe-guarded without interfering with accessibility
and efficient operation.
A careful operator is the best insurance against an accident.
The complete observance of one simple rule would prevent thousands of serious injuries
each year. That rule is:
“NEVER ATTEMPT TO CLEAN, OIL, OR ADJUST A MACHINE WHILE IN MOTION”.
-NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL

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MODEL: VB185
PRE-OPERATION
GENERAL
Read the entire Owner’s Manual before attempting to operate this manure spreader. Before attempting any
maintenance or repairs; always be sure all rotating parts have stopped and that the tractor is shut off, disconnect
the PTO, relieve all hydraulic pressure and disconnect hydraulic hoses.
WARNING
NEVER OPERATE SPREADER WITH ANY GUARDS OR SHIELDS REMOVED.
FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL UNJURY OR DEATH.
1. Completely lubricate the unit as described in the LUBRICATION Section.
2. Check and tighten the wheel lug nuts if required.
3. Check and maintain the tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
4. Check the entire unit for loose bolts, damaged or loose hydraulic fittings and hoses or other damaged parts.
5. The tractor half of the PTO drive shaft assembly must be locked securely to the tractor output shaft.
TRACTOR HITCH AND PTO REQUIREMENTS
This spreader, with STANDARD equipment, is designed to be operated by a 1000 RPM PTO Output.
The PTO drive shaft assembly is designed to operate with tractors conforming to the industry standard
shown on Figure 1.
ADMA Recommendations:
A tractor drawbar equipped with a clevis hitch (hammer-strap) can cause interference with the PTO driveline
IID (implement input driveline). This interference can cause serious damage to the IID or the IID telescoping
members. The clevis hitch on the tractor must be removed.
If the implement (figure 2, top view) is attached to a tractor with a clevis hitch (hammer-strap) style drawbar, the
hammer-strap must be removed to prevent damage to the IID guarding or the IID telescoping members.
If the implement (figure 2, lower view) is attached to a tractor with an offset in the drawbar, be certain it is
in the down position to prevent damage to the IID guarding or the IID telescoping members.
FIGURE 1. TRACTOR DRAWBAR & PTO
SPECIFICATION
FIGURE 2. PTO ALIGNMENT

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MODEL: VB185
TRACTOR TOWING SIZE REQUIREMENTS
The spreader does not have brakes. Towing the spreader must be done safely. The ASAE (American Society of
Agricultural Engineers) specifies that the towing vehicle should weigh at least 2/3 as much as the loaded
implement to be reasonably safe towing at speeds up to 20 mph. This (20 mph) is also the maximum
recommended towing speed for the spreader.
The loaded weight of your spreader will naturally vary with the moisture of the manure and you must consider that
for your conditions. The loaded weight as specified by the spreader manufacturer is as follows:
Use the following charts for calculating minimum tractor weight:
NOTE: HEAPED LOADS HAVE SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER CAPACITIES RESULTING IN INCREASED WEIGHT
AND HIGHER CENTER OF GRAVITY, REQUIRING EXTRA PRECAUTION DURING OPERATION.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
There are two hydraulic circuits on the spreader:
1. One circuit powers the hydraulic end gate.
2. The second circuit powers the hydraulic apron drive. A check valve is installed in this circuit to prevent
operating the apron in reverse.
Therefore, the tractor requires two sets of remote ports with a minimum recommended flow of 10 GPM.
Hydraulic System Options
Three types of hydraulic operating systems are available for the apron drive on the spreader.
1. The Manual Flow Control system has an adjustable flow control valve on the spreader which is manually
controlled bytwisting a “control hose.” The hose is connected to the flow control valve on the spreader and the
opposite end of the hose is fitted with a handle to operate from the tractor seat.
2. An Electric Flow Control system is available to replace the “control hose” described above. This system has a
motorized flow control valve on the spreader and an electric control box placed on the tractor is used to control
this valve.
3. The Standard system utilizes tractor-equipped flow control. This system requires that the tractor have an
adjustable flow control (rabbit / turtle) valve. There is no adjustable flow control valve on the spreader when
this option is purchased.
Material Estimated Weight Per Cubic Foot
Material
lbs / Cu. Ft.
Lime Sludge
110-115 LBS.
DryFeedlot Manure
63-65 LBS.
Chicken Litter
63-65 LBS.
Cake Sludge
62-65 LBS.
Semi-Solid Manure
58-60 LBS.
Pen Packed Manure
30-35 LBS.
Liquid Manure
63-65 LBS.
MODEL
(struck
level)
SPREADER EMPTY
WEIGHT + LOAD = GW
MINIMUM
TRACTOR
WEIGHT UP
TO 20 MPH
VB185
(185 ft3)
7200 + = ______
2/3 of spreader
gross weight

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MODEL: VB185
Setup for Open or Closed Center Hydraulic Systems
•Most late model tractors use a closed center hydraulic system which only pumps oil as required. Some other
tractors may have an open center system which pumps oil continuously, in which case provision must be
made to allow excess flow back to the tractor reservoir. If you are not sure of your system, contact your tractor
dealer.
•Spreaders equipped with themanual or electric flow control options are shipped from the factory set up for open
center tractors. To convert for a closed center, close the ball valve byrotating the handle perpendicular to the
valve as illustrated on Figure 3.
•Spreaders with standardflow control (no adjustable flow control valve or ball valve on spreader) are shipped
from the factory set up for closed center. If you require Open Center, then a conversion must be made as
illustrated on Figure 4.
NOTICE! For tractors with a closed center system and load sensing that has a priority flow circuit that is
manually adjustable, the ball Valve must be open. This is not a tractor lever operated system.
Electric Control Installation for Optional On-Board Flow Control System
1. Locate the controller on the tractor where it is easily accessible to operate.
2. Connect the electrical leads to the tractor’s 12VDC power source.
3. When hooking up the spreader, connect the controller to the motorized control valve at the “twist-lock”
connector.
4. See Figure 4.
FIGURE 4. APRON FLOW CONTROL
(ELECTRIC CONTROL ILLUSTRATED)
FIGURE 5. CONVERTING TRACTOR LEVER
OPERATED FLOW CONTROL TO OPEN CENTER

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MODEL: VB185
TRANSPORTING
General
Check for traffic constantly. Be sure you can see that no one is attempting to pass you and that all traffic is
sufficiently clear from you before making any turns.
WARNING
BE SURE THE SLOW MOVING VEHICLE SIGN IS INSTALLED ON THE REAR OF THE SPREADER FOR
TRANSPORTING ON ROADWAYS. KEEP THIS SIGN AND ALL REFLECTIVE DECALS CLEAN. FAILURE
TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
CAUTION
REGULARLY CLEAN OFF THE REFLECTIVE TAPE
AT THE REAR AND SIDES OF THE SPREADER
WHEN TRANSPORTING IT ON THE HIGHWAY.
WARNING
DO NOT TOW AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 20
MPH. FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
Operating speed is dictated by the terrain over which you are traveling. Always use caution. Avoid traveling on
slopes or hills that are unsafe. Also beware of slippery conditions such as traveling over areas previously spread
with manure. If possible, avoid spreading over areas where manure has been previously applied.
If you will travel on public roadways and it is legal to do so, you must know all rules governing such operation.
This will include lighting and brake requirements in addition to traffic rules. You may also be required to install a
safety chain on the spreader.
Safety Chain Use
The chain must be strong enough to hold the weight of the loaded spreader. If using a grab hook at the end(s) of
the chain to secure the chain to itself, a hook latch must be installed.
The length of the safety chain is not to be any longer than necessary to turn without interference. If any chain
links or attachment hardware are broken or stretched, repair before using. Store chain so it does not corrode or
become damaged. Do not use this chain for other implements because the strength and length of chain may
not be adequate. Identify this chain for use on this particular spreader.
Safety chain designed for this spreader can be ordered on Page 22-23.
CAUTION
A SAFETY CHAIN SHOULD BE INSTALLED
TO RETAIN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN
TRACTOR (OR OTHER TOWING VEHICLE)
AND SPREADER WHENEVER TRAVELING
ON PUBLIC ROADS. A SUGGESTED
ATTACHMENT IS ILLUSTRATED.
Use of Lights
Highway lights are a standard option for your spreader. Lights are recommended for any spreader operated on
public roadways and may be required by law. Be sure to plug the electrical plug into the tractor receptacle when
hooking up the spreader. Clean lights as needed to maintain visibility!

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MODEL: VB185
OPERATION
DANGER
NEVER ENTER THE SPREADER BOX FOR ANY
REASON WITHOUT FIRST DISCONNECTING
PTO SHAFT FROM TRACTOR. DO NOT ALLOW
OTHERS IN THE BOX. ROTATING BEATER
CAN DISMEMBER OR KILL.
CAUTION
DO NOT USE JACK EXCEPT WHEN SPREADER
IS EMPTY. JACK WILL NOT SUPPORT ADDED
WEIGHT FROM LOAD. UNBALANCED WEIGHT
MAY RESULT IN UNEXPECTED “TIP UP” OF
THE SPREADER.
TRACTOR HOOKUP
1. SLOWLY back up tractor to spreader and line up draw pin holes.
2. Shift tractor to neutral or park and set the brakes.
3. Hook the spreader hitch to the tractor drawbar with 1 3/8” secured hitch pin.
4. Raise the jack off the ground. Remove the jack hub pin and rotate the jack to horizontal storage position and
secure with the pin.
5. Connect the PTO drive shaft to the tractor PTO output shaft and be sure it is locked to the tractor shaft.
6. Connect the hydraulic hoses from the spreader to paired remote ports on the tractor.
Apron Drive –(2x) 8M3K Ø1/2” ID Hoses Hydraulic Gate –(2x) 6M3K Ø3/8”ID Hoses
NOTICE! The spreader apron circuit has a check valve in it so that the apron may not be operated in the
wrong direction. If the hoses are reversed, the apron will not operate and the hoses should be switched.
FIGURE 6. SPREADER HOOKUP FIGURE 7. HYDRAULIC END GATE
LOADING
1. Check that the end gate is closed, Figure 7.
2. Park spreader for loading, shift the tractor to neutral or park and set the brakes.
3. Load manure into spreader EVENLY. Loading manure unevenly may cause tip-up or excessive hitch weight.
NOTICE! Solid manure may be loaded at least level with the top of the box while semi liquid and liquid slurries will
have to be less than full in the spreader box. It is unlawful to allow slurry or splash to leak onto public roads!
END GATE - DO NOT CLOSE ON CHAIN SLAT
JACK
HUB PIN
HYDRAULIC
HOSES
HOSE
PTO
SHAFT

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MODEL: VB185
UNLOADING
The rear beaters have been designed and tested to provide the best spread pattern for most liquids and semi-solid
manure. However, the pattern will vary for each specific condition. The factors that contribute most to differing
patterns will be moisture content and the amount and length of bedding material. For most typical conditions, the
spread pattern should be uniform and about 30 feet wide or more for cattle manure and about 20 feet wide for
poultry manure. Plan your spreading patterns so you do not have to travel over previously spread manure which
will be slippery, resulting in poor traction. Traction on wet grass is also poor. When the resulting pattern may require
that you overlap during spreading, use precautions on slopes and hills where you will experience a loss of traction
by traveling over ground with previously spread manure.
DANGER
KEEP AWAY AND KEEP OTHERS CLEAR OF
ROTATING BEATERS AT REAR OF SPREADER.
SERIOUS INJURY OR AMPUTATION COULD
RESULT.
WARNING
MAKE CERTAIN EVERYONE IS CLEAR OF
EQUIPMENT BEFORE APPLYING POWER.
FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
CAUTION
DO NOT OPERATE APRON CHAIN WITHOUT RAISING END GATE FIRST. FAILURE TO
HEED MAY RESULT IN EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
When you are ready to begin spreading application on the field:
1. Slowly engage the tractor PTO clutch and increase RPM to proper PTO operating speed.
2. Open the hydraulic end gate, Figure 7, by applying the tractor hydraulic lever. This can be done while
traveling forward to avoid a heavier application at the edge of the field than desired.
3. Once the end gate is open and the PTO is up to speed, engage the hydraulic apron.
•For standard non flow control systems, regulate apron speed with the tractor hydraulic system adjustable
flow control (rabbit/turtle icons).
•For manual flow control systems, regulate apron speed using the “twist hose” control. Turn handle CW to
increase apron speed or CCW to decrease.
•For electric flow control systems, regulate apron speed using the controller box. Turn the electric control
to “ON”. Turn the knob CW to increase or CCW to decrease apron speed. Return switch to “OFF” when
spreading is completed.
4. For solid manure, start the apron at a slow rate of speed.
5. Start application onto the field. Increase the speed of apron chain for a heavier application.
NOTICE! Do not feed frozen manure at a rate too fast. The apron drive can feed faster than the beaters can
expel the material. When frozen chunks are present, reduce apron speed to approximately 1/3, to allow the
beaters time to grind the chunks into small pieces.
6. Further control of the application rate is possible by the relationship of tractor engine speed to ground speed
(transmission gear selection). For optimum trouble free performance it is recommended to operate at or near
engine PTO speed.
7. When the spreader is empty, stop the PTO.
8. Stop the apron chain so there is no chain slat under the hydraulic end gate, Figure 7. Then close the end gate.

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MODEL: VB185
MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENTS, & LUBRICATION
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE
BEFORE unclogging, cleaning, adjusting, lubricating or servicing the unit:
1. Disengage the tractor PTO.
2. Shut off the tractor engine, remove the ignition key and take it with you.
3. Wait for all movement to stop.
4. Remove the Telescoping PTO Drive and ALL power connections from the tractor.
ONLY when you have taken these precautions can you be sure it is safe to proceed.
Failure to follow the above procedure could lead to death or serious bodily injury.
WHEEL & TIRE MAINTENANCE
WHEELS: Check after first hour of towing and periodically thereafter. The wheel studs should be torqued to 170
foot pounds in a crisscross pattern.
TIRE PRESSURE: 425-65R Recommended Pressure: 45 - 90 PSI MAX
Lock Ring Rim
Removing, replacing and repairing industrial tires and rims with lock rings can be dangerous without proper tools,
equipment and training to perform this service. It is recommended that this work be performed only by a qualified
tire repair shop.
WARNING
NEVER INFLATE BEYOND RIM OR TIRE
MANUFACTURER’S APPROVED PSI RATING.
WHILE INFLATING, STAY OUT OF THE
TRAJECTORY & STAND CLEAR OF TIRE/WHEEL
ASSEMBLY. A TIRE BLOW OUT OR RIM/WHEEL
FAILURE CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH.
DANGER
IF THE LOCK RING SHOULD BLOW OFF, IT AND
OTHER PARTS COULD FLY OFF WITH ENOUGH
FORCE TO INJURE OR KILL A PERSON. NEVER
STAND IN THE POTENTIAL BLOW OUT AREA AND
KEEP OTHERS AWAY.
REAR AUTOMATIC OVER-RUNNING CLUTCH
1. If the PTO drive becomes over loaded, the clutch will disengage, causing an audible clattering noise.
2. If the clutch disengages, stop tractor hydraulic flow. Disengage the PTO and allow it to coast down. The clutch
will re-engage at slow speed if the over load has subsided.
3. At slow speed, re-engage the PTO and allow the beaters to run freely. Restart the hydraulic flow and resume
operation.
4. If the clutch will not re-engage, then the beaters are still over loaded or plugged. PERFORM SAFETY
SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE. It will be necessary to manually unplug the beaters to remove the clog. A foreign
object such as a rock may be found to be the cause of over load.
5. When the clog has been cleared, restart the tractor and at idle speed, engage the PTO until the beaters fun
freely. Increase the PTO speed and then engage the hydraulic flow to operate the apron drive and resume
operation.

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MODEL: VB185
WARNING
DISCONNECT PTO DRIVE SHAFT AND HYDRAULIC HOSES BEFORE CLEANING,
ADJUSTING, OR SERVICING THIS MACHINE. FAILURE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
CLEANING AND STORAGE
Before storing this spreader for an extended period of time, perform the following:
1. Allow the spreader to completely clean out the last load.
2. Thoroughly hose off all manure from the outside of the spreader and the inside of the box, particularly getting
the end gate mechanism clean. The water can be drained into your manure storage pit or if the gate is left
closed, the water can be taken to the field and spread.
3. If pressure washing spreader, be careful not to wash directly on or too close to any bearing seals. The high
pressure can destroy the seal and force water into the bearing causing it to rust and fail. Avoid pressure
washing painted areas of the spreader too closely as the pressure can strip paint on scratched areas.
4. Manure is very acidic and should not be left on painted areas for a long period of time because it will lift paint
from the metal. Unpainted metal will corrode causing holes to rust through metal guards or even fall off the
machine. If this should happen, guards must be replaced immediately
WARNING
DO NOT OPERATE SPREADER WITH ANY GUARD OPEN OR MISSING.
ROTATING PARTS CAN DISMEMBER OR KILL.
5. After cleaning, lube the spreader to exclude moisture from bearings and prevent condensation from forming
during storage.
6. Inspect all elements and check for parts that need repair or replacement. Performing these tasks now will
guarantee that the spreader is ready for use at the beginning of the next season.

20 | P a g e
MODEL: VB185
ADJUSTMENTS
A1 –The apron chain is adjusted by 2 adjuster bolts
located on the front of the box frame. Adjust the bolts
so the chain is elevated above the plastic slide rails for
20” as illustrated on Figure 8. When there is no more
adjustment left on the adjuster screws, loosen the nuts
on the bolts and push the bolts in as far as they will go,
then remove a link from each chain and retighten.
NOTICE! Bolts must be adjusted evenly to keep apron
centered when in operation. If apron is running to one
side, tighten that side until apron runs centered.
LUBRICATION
L1 - Grease bearings on top of Vertical Beaters, both sides by
greaselines located on each side of the Vertical Beater
Head Assembly. One pump every 8 hours
L2 - Maintain oil level in apron drive gear reducer. Check level
at sight glass, located at right, rear side. It holds 6 quarts.
When required, refill with SAE 85-140 Moly Fortified gear
lube or Synthetic SAE 75-90 gear lube.
L3 - Grease drive shaft bearings locatedunder spreader box.
These bearings are accessed by 2 grease lines located
on RH side of spreader. One pump every 8 hours.
L4 - Grease the front drive shaft bearing, located under the
front PTO guard. One pump every 8 hours.
L5 - Grease the apron drive shaft bearings, both sides of the spreader by grease lines, 5 pumps every 8 hours.
L6 - Maintain oil level in vertical beater gearbox. Check level at sight glass. It holds 7.4 quarts. When required,
refill with SAE 85-140 Moly Fortified gear lube or Synthetic SAE 75-90 gear lube.
L7 –Grease the gate arm mounts. Both sides by zerk located on end of pin / bolt. 2 pumps every 8 hours.
L8 - Grease cross bearings on yokes (both ends of PTO shaft) 1 pump every 8 hours. Grease telescoping shaft
through slot in center of guard, 4-5 pumps every 8 hours.
L9 - Special attention should be paidtolubricating the CV PTO drive shaft assembly.
See Instructions on page 21.
L10 - Grease the over-running clutch, located on rear PTO driveshaft assembly. 3-4 pumps every 8 hours
L11 - Remove the wheels and hubs annually. Clean out old grease and repack bearing cones with quality EP
grease. Put a ¼” film of grease on the bearing cups and reassemble. If your hubs have grease zerks, do not lube
them. Grease builds up in the hub and will eventually damage the seal when expansion from heat occurs.
FIGURE 8. APRON CHAIN
NOTICE!
SPREADER MUST BE SITTING LEVEL
FOR AN ACCURATE OIL CHECK.
TO CHECK OIL LEVELS, PARK
SPREADER ON LEVEL GROUND, AND
USE JACK TO RAISE / LOWER THE
SPREADER BODY UNTIL IT IS
COMPLETELY LEVEL.