Meyer's VB440 User manual

Manufactured in DORCHESTER, WISCONSIN by
MEYER’S EQUIPMENT
Mfg. Corp.
INSTRUCTION AND PARTS BOOK - Rev. K2
HEAVY DUTY MANURE SPREADERS
MODEL: VB440
DO NOT –Operate This Spreader Until You Have
Completely Read This Book!
NEVER –Repair or Clean This Spreader While PTO
is Engaged!

MODEL: VB440
Page 2
MODEL SPECIFICATIONS
Single Axle
Tandem Axle
Width of Box Inside
80”
Overall Width (Standard)
126”
136”
Length of Box Inside
205”
Depth
32”
Overall Length
26’
Overall Height (Front)
106”
Ground Clearance
15”
App. Capacity (Bushel)
440
App. Capacity (Struck Cu. Ft.)
316
App. Weight (lbs.)
9580
Loading Height
68-1/2”
Apron Chain
Twin #67P11
Beaters
Twin Ø39” Vertical Beaters
w/ 10MM Thick Spiral Flighting
Spindle Diameter
3-3/8”
3”
Spindle/Hub Load Rating - Each
15,000 lbs. (x2)
8,000 lbs. (x4)
Tire Size (Standard)
1600-R20
425-65R x 22.5
Tire Size (Optional)
600/55 x 26.5
Flotation Tires
19L x 16.1 10 Ply
Flotation Tires
PTO Speed
Optional 540 RPM or 1000 RPM
Min. Tractor Horsepower
135 HP
Min. Hydraulic Flow
10 GPM

Page 3
MODEL: VB440
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]

MODEL: VB440
Page 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................3
SAFETY..................................................................................................................................................6
SAFETY SIGNS........................................................................................................................................8
SAFETY SIGNS........................................................................................................................................9
MANURE SPREADER SAFETY .................................................................................................................10
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE ...................................................................................11
PRE-OPERATION ..........................................................................................................................................12
GENERAL.......................................................................................................................................................... 12
TRACTOR HITCH AND PTO REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................... 12
TRACTOR SIZE REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 13
HYDRAULICSYSTEM ......................................................................................................................................... 13
TRANSPORTING ............................................................................................................................................... 15
OPERATION .................................................................................................................................................16
TRACTOR HOOKUP........................................................................................................................................... 16
LOADING.......................................................................................................................................................... 16
UNLOADING..................................................................................................................................................... 17
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE.................................................................................... 17
MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENTS & LUBRICATION...........................................................................................18
WHEEL AND TIRE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR............................................................................................... 18
LOCK RING RIM ................................................................................................................................................ 18
REAR-AUTOMATIC OVER RUNNING CLUTCH................................................................................................... 18
MANDATORY SAFETY SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE................................................................................... 18
ADJUSTMENTS................................................................................................................................................. 19
LUBRICATION................................................................................................................................................... 19
CLEANING AND STORAGE................................................................................................................................ 21

Page 5
MODEL: VB440
REPAIR PARTS..............................................................................................................................................22
MAIN FRAME &BOX PARTS ................................................................................................................................. 22
HYDRAULIC END GATE &RELATED PARTS ........................................................................................................... 24
JACK ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................................... 26
AXLES, WHEELS, SPINDLES AND RELATED PARTS –SINGLE AXLE......................................................................... 28
AXLES, WHEELS, SPINDLES AND RELATED PARTS –TANDEM AXLE...................................................................... 30
DRIVE TRAIN, VERTICAL BEATERS ........................................................................................................................ 32
APRON AND RELATED PARTS, STANDARD 67P11 ................................................................................................ 34
LUBE BANK, APRON SHAFT .................................................................................................................................. 36
VERTICAL BEATER HEAD ASSEMBLY..................................................................................................................... 38
VERTICAL BEATER GEARBOX &RELATED PARTS.................................................................................................. 40
VERTICAL BEATER LUBRICATION KIT.................................................................................................................... 42
APRON DRIVE GEARBOX ...................................................................................................................................... 44
REMOVABLECVTELESCOPINGUNIVERSALJOINTASSEMBLYWITHGUARD, TRAILER TO TRACTOR................................ 46
35EUNIVERSALJOINT,TELESCOPINGASSEMBLYW/GUARD-REARWITH OVER-RUNNINGCLUTCH......................... 47
YOKE &CLUTCH HUB ASSEMBLY ......................................................................................................................... 48
OVER-RUNNING CLUTCH ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................... 48
STANDARD HIGHWAY LIGHTING ......................................................................................................................... 50
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, END GATE ...................................................................................................................... 52
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, STANDARD ....................................................................................................... 54
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, ELECTRIC FLOW CONTROL ............................................................................... 56
HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY, APRON, MANUAL FLOW CONTROL ............................................................................... 58
LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT.................................................................................................................60

MODEL: VB440
Page 6
SAFETY
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.
DECALS ARE ILLUSTRATED ON PAGES 6 & 7.
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.

Page 7
MODEL: VB440
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.

MODEL: VB440
Page 8
SAFETY SIGNS
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.

Page 9
MODEL: VB440
SAFETY SIGNS
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.

MODEL: VB440
Page 10
MANURE SPREADER SAFETY
CAUTION
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 Traffic 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
CAUTION
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

Page 11
MODEL: VB440
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.
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 many thousand serious injuries each year.
That rule is “NEVER ATTEMPT TO CLEAN, OIL,
OR ADJUST A MACHINE WHILE IN MOTION”.
-NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL
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!!

MODEL: VB440
Page 12
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 INJURY 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 dam-
aged 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
The spreader is designed to be operated by a 1000
RPM PTO tractor output (Standard).
The PTO drive shaft assembly is designed to operate
with tractors conforming to the industry standard
shown on figure 1 for 1000 RPM PTO output.
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 pre-
vent 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
TRACTOR ELEMENT INPUT
MASTER SHIELD DRIVELINE (IID) IMPLEMENT
INPUT
CONNECTION
SHIELD (IIC)
WRONG
TRACTOR
MASTER SHIELD ELEMENT INPUT
DRIVELINE (IID)
WRONG
FIGURE 2. PTO ALIGNMENT

Page 13
MODEL: VB440
TRACTOR 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 con-
sider that for your conditions. The loaded weight
capacities as specified bythe spreader manufacturer
are as follows:
Tractor Towing Size Requirements
Use the following chart for calculating the minimum
tractor weight.
HYDRAULICSYSTEM
General
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, one set for the hydraulic apron drive and one
set for the hydraulic end gate.
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” which 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. See Figure 3.
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.
SOURCE: ASAE
NOTE: HEAPED LOADS HAVE SIGNIFICANTLY
HIGHER CAPACITIES RESULTING IN INCREASED
WEIGHT AND HIGHER CENTER OF GRAVITY,
REQUIRING EXTRA PRECAUTION DURING
OPERATION.
FIGURE 3. MANUAL APRON CHAIN FLOW
CONTROL
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. See
Figure 4.
3. The Standard system utilizes tractor lever flow
control. This system requires that the tractor have
an adjustable flow control lever (rabbit/turtle)
operated valve, there is no adjustable flow
control valve on the spreader.
MODEL
(struck
level)
SPREADER EMPTY
WEIGHT + LOAD = GW
MINIMUM
TRACTOR
WEIGHT UP
TO 20 MPH
VB440
(317 ft3)
9580+ = _
2/3 of
spreader
gross weight

MODEL: VB440
Page 14
FIGURE 4. OPTIONAL ELECTRIC FLOW VALVE
CONTROLLER
Set Up for Open Or Closed Center Hydraulic
Systems
1. 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.
2. Spreaders with manual or electric control are
shipped from the factory, set up for open center
tractors. To convert for a closed center, close the
ball valve by rotating the handle perpendicular to
the valve as illustrated on Figure 5.
3. Spreaders with tractor lever operated flow control
(no 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 6.
NOTICE! For tractors with 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.
FIGURE 5. APRON FLOW CONTROL (OPTIONAL
ELECTRICILLUSTRATED)
FIGURE 6. CONVERTING TRACTOR LEVER
OPERATED FLOW CONTROL TO OPEN CENTER

Page 15
MODEL: VB440
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. FAIL-
URE TO HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PER-
SONAL 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 SERI-
OUS 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 slip-
pery 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 le-
gal 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
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 AT-
TACHMENT IS ILLUSTRATED.
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 23.
Use of Lights
Highway lights are standard for your spreader. Lights
are recommended for any spreader operated on public
roads and may be required by law.
If equipped with lights, plug the electric plug into the
tractor trailer electrical receptacle when hooking
spreader to tractor.
INTERMEDIATE SUPPORT
GRAB HOOK W/LATCH
SUGGESTED SAFETY CHAIN INSTALLATION

MODEL: VB440
Page 16
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.
TRACTOR HOOKUP
FIGURE 7. SPREADER HOOK UP
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.
1. Hook the spreader hitch to the tractor drawbar
with 1 3/8” secured hitch pin.
2. Raise the jack off the ground. Remove the jack
hub pin and rotate the jack to horizontal storage
position and secure with the pin, figure 7.
3. Connect the PTO drive shaft to the tractor PTO
output shaft and be sure it is locked to the tractor
shaft.
4. Connect the hydraulic hoses from the
spreader to remote ports on the tractor.
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.
5. If you have an optional on board flow control with
electric control system, plug the twist lock
connectors together. See figure 5.
LOADING
1. Check that the end gate is closed, figure 8. When
the spreader is parked for loading, shift the tractor
to neutral or park and set the brakes. The moisture
content of the manure will determine how full the
spreader can be loaded so that no manure spills
out.
2. You will probably be able to load solid manure 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.
NOTICE! It is unlawful to allow slurry to splash or leak
onto public roads.
FIGURE 8. HYDRAULIC END GATE,
VIEW FROM REAR

Page 17
MODEL: VB440
UNLOADING
DANGER
KEEP AWAY AND KEEP OTHERS CLEAR OF RO-
TATING BEATERS AT REAR OF SPREADER. SERI-
OUS INJURY OR AMPUTATION COULD RESULT.
WARNING
MAKE CERTAIN EVERYONE IS CLEAR OF EQUIP-
MENT BEFORE APPLYING POWER. FAILURE TO
HEED MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL IN-
JURY OR DEATH.
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 uni-
form 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.
CAUTION
DO NOT OPERATE APRON CHAIN WITHOUT
RAISING END GATE FIRST. FAILURE TO HEED
MAY RESULT IN EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
1. When you are ready to begin spreading
application on the field, slowly engage the tractor
PTO clutch and then increase PTO to operating
speed.
2. Open the hydraulic end gate, figure 8, 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 Fully Open and the
PTO is up to speed, engage the apron.
4. For standard non flow control systems, regulate
the apron speed with the tractor hydraulic system
adjustable flow control lever (rabbit/turtle icons).
5. For electric flow control, turn the electric controlto
“ON”. Turn the knob CW to increase or CCW to
decrease application rate. Return switch to “OFF”
when spreading is completed, figure 4.
6. For solid manure, start the apron at a slow rate of
speed.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. When the spreader is empty, stop the PTO.
10. Stop the apron chain so there is no chain slat under
the hydraulic end gate, Figure 8. Then close the end
gate.
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.

MODEL: VB440
Page 18
MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENTS & LUBRICATION
WARNING
DISCONNECT PTO DRIVESHAFT AND HYDRAULIC
HOSES BEFORE CLEANING, ADJUSTING OR SER-
VICING THIS MACHINE. FAILURE TO HEED MAY RE-
SULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURYOR DEATH.
WHEEL AND TIRE MAINTENANCE AND
REPAIR
WHEELS: Check periodically. The wheel studs should
be torqued to 297 foot pounds.
TIRE PRESSURE:
1600-R20 Recommended Pressure –75 PSI
600/55 X 26.5 Recommended Pressure –52 PSI
425-65R Recommended Pressure –65 PSI
LOCK RING RIM
WARNING
NEVER INFLATE BEYOND RIM OR TIRE MANU-
FACTURER’S APPROVED PSI RATING. WHILE IN-
FLATING, 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.
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.
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
(See figure 9)
1. If the PTO drive becomes over loaded, the clutch
will disengage, causing an audible clattering
noise.
FIGURE 9. AUTOMATIC OVER RUNNING CLUTCH
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. 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.
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.

Page 19
MODEL: VB440
A1
ADJUSTMENTS
Apron Chain
FIGURE 10. ADJUST APRON CHAIN FIGURE 11.
The apron chain is adjusted by (4) adjuster bolts
located on the front of the box frame, figure 13. Adjust
the 1-1/8” bolts so the chain is elevated above the
plastic slide rails for 20” as illustrated on figure 10.
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 readjust the apron chain
NOTICE! Chain must run centered on the front nylon
rollers.
LUBRICATION
Grease bearings on top of Vertical Beater one pump
every 8 hours, both sides by grease lines. Figures 11 and
12.
Maintain oil level in apron drive reducer at check
level plug, accessible at right, rear side. It holds 6 Qts.
When required, refill with SAE 85-140 Moly Fortified
gear lube or Synthetic SAE 75-90 gear lube. Figure 11.
Grease 3 bearings on the drive shaft under spreader
box, one pump every8 hours. These bearings are
accessed by grease lines, 3 places on RH side of
machine. Figures 11 and 14.
Grease the bearing at the front of the driveline
connecting to the PTO shaft. Grease bearing one
pump every 8 hours. Figure 13.
Grease Pivot Hitch 2 pumps every 8 hours, each
grease zerk. Figure 13.
FIGURE 12.
FIGURE 13.
L1
SIGHT GLASS
L6
REMOVE
SHIELD
L3
L7
L6
L8
SIGHT GLASS
L1
L7
L12
L11
A1
A1
A1
L5
L4 UNDERNEATH

MODEL: VB440
Page 20
L5
L3
Grease the apron drive shafts, both sides of the
spreader by the grease lines, 5 pumps every 8 hours.
Figures 11 and 12.
Grease the axle at both sides of the spreader by
the grease lines, 10 pumps every 8 hours. Figures 11
and 12.
Maintain oil level in vertical beater gearbox to site
gauge level. It holds 12 Qts. When required, refill with
SAE 85-140 Moly Fortified gear lube or Synthetic SAE
75-90 gear lube. Figure 12.
Grease cross bearings on yoke (both ends of
PTO shaft) 1 pump every 8 hrs. Grease telescoping
shaft through slot in center of guard, 4-5 pumps every
8 hrs. Figure 15.
Specialattentionshouldbe paidto lubricatingthe
constantvelocityPTOdriveshaftassembly.Seefigure15.
L9
L9
L10
CV CENTER HOUSING,
4 PUMPS EVERY 24
HRS. OF OPERATION
L10
CV BALL & SOCKET, 1-2
PUMPS EVERY 8 HRS.
FIGURE 15. PTO LUBRICATION
FIGURE 14.
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.