Nordco CX User manual

24-Volt Spiker/Hammer
w/Programmable Logic
Replacement
Operation and
Maintenance
Manual
Applies to S/N 410950 - 411171
All Tier 3 Engines
Reorder Part: SEE NEXT PAGE
Last Revision: Rev. -
JANUARY 2020
Read and fully understand the precautions contained in this manual before operating
or servicing this machine. Refer to Section 1 for important safety information.

Release/Revisions
Release/Rev
Date
Change Location/Description
Rev. -
January
2020
Re-Write of all existing CX Hammer Operation
Manuals. Combines All Tier 3 Operation manuals into
one replacement manual.
Re-Order Information
OPERATION MANUAL ONLY:
PART NUMBER
S/N RANGE
DESCRIPTION
OM410004
S/N 410950-411171
Operation Manual Only Tier 3 Engines
ENTIRE OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL:
PART NUMBER
S/N RANGE
DESCRIPTION
49454112
S/N410950-411499
Operation and Parts – John Deere Tier 3
49454114
C-CX Upgrade 2012-2016
Operation and Parts
49454117
S/N 410986-411499
Operation and Parts – Cummins Tier 3
49454118
C-CX Upgrade SN 410325RDV
Operation and Parts
49454119
Upgrade to Airboss Lewis Bolt
Operation and Parts
49454120
C-CX Upgrade 2017-2018
Operation and Parts

This manual is a guide for the operation and routine maintenance of a NORDCO Railroad Maintenance
Machine. It covers product technical information, basic operating and maintenance procedures, and
safety information and is provided for use by the qualified personnel who will supervise, operate or service
the equipment described herein.
Measurements in this manual are given in both metric and customary U.S. unit equivalents.
Personnel responsible for the operation and maintenance of this equipment should
thoroughly study the manual before commencing operation or maintenance
procedures.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of your machine and should
remain with the machine at all times.
Additional copies of this manual are available either as a part (Operation Manual
only) or a whole (operation and parts manual), at a nominal cost, through our Part
Sales Department. Additional service information, parts, and application information is available through
these Nordco product support resources:
NORDCO Sales: Oak Creek, Wisconsin
[phone]
[email protected]
NORDCO Parts: Oak Creek, Wisconsin
1-800-647-1724
[email protected]
NORDCO Service: 1-800-445-9258
[email protected]
We ask that if you have any comments or suggestions about this manual, let us hear from you. We are
here to be of service to you, our customers. Direct your comments and inquiries to:
Technical Documentation Department
NORDCO Inc.
245 W. Forest Hill Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL DATA
In an effort to provide information necessary for your employee safety training program and to meet the
requirements of OSHA Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200, we have OSHA Form 20 Safety Data
Sheets available that cover the material contained in this machine.
If you are interested in receiving this information, please refer to the Name, model, and Serial Number of
your machine when calling or writing, and direct your inquiries to:
Production/Facilities Manager
NORDCO Inc.
245 W. Forest Hill Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Phone: [phone]

CX Hammer with PLC CONTENTS
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) i Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE
SAFETY ........................................................................................................................................................................1-1
Understanding Key Safety Alert Words...................................................................................................................1-1
General Safety Tips.................................................................................................................................................1-2
Safety During Work ............................................................................................................................................1-2
Safety During Travel...........................................................................................................................................1-3
Safety During Maintenance................................................................................................................................1-3
Safety Alerts............................................................................................................................................................1-4
Lockout/Tagout Requirements................................................................................................................................1-5
Safety Decals on this Machine................................................................................................................................1-8
GENERAL INFORMATION...........................................................................................................................................1-9
Machine Specifications..........................................................................................................................................1-10
Section 2: PRE-OPERATION
BEFORE OPERATION .................................................................................................................................................2-1
Operator’s Station ...................................................................................................................................................2-1
Carriage...................................................................................................................................................................2-2
Carriage Guide Wheel.............................................................................................................................................2-2
Workhead................................................................................................................................................................2-2
Manifolds.................................................................................................................................................................2-2
Propulsion/Drive System.........................................................................................................................................2-2
Boom/Winch............................................................................................................................................................2-2
Logic Box Control Panel..........................................................................................................................................2-2
Bulk Loader (optional) .............................................................................................................................................2-2
Gager (optional) ......................................................................................................................................................2-2
Nipper Assembly (optional).....................................................................................................................................2-3
Main Control Box.....................................................................................................................................................2-4
Gauges................................................................................................................................................................2-4
Engine Diagnostics..............................................................................................................................................2-6
Engine and Starting.............................................................................................................................................2-9
Travel Controls..................................................................................................................................................2-10
Work Controls....................................................................................................................................................2-12
Gager Controls..................................................................................................................................................2-13
Miscellaneous Controls .....................................................................................................................................2-14
Remote Operator Control Box...............................................................................................................................2-16
Brake and Foot Pedals..........................................................................................................................................2-17
Hand Controllers ...................................................................................................................................................2-18
Preparing the Machine for Work............................................................................................................................2-20
Pre-Operational Checklist .....................................................................................................................................2-21
Engine Operation ..................................................................................................................................................2-22
START-UP CHECKS ..................................................................................................................................................2-23
LOCK-UP Devices.......................................................................................................................................................2-24
PROPELLING AND BRAKING...................................................................................................................................2-30
Section 3: SETUP
MACHINE SET-UP........................................................................................................................................................3-1
Jaw Depth/Rail Height Adjustment......................................................................................................................3-1
Workhead Ready Adjustment..................................................................................................................................3-2
Workhead Spike Pattern Adjustment .....................................................................................................................3-3
Gager Setup/Adjustments.......................................................................................................................................3-4
Using the Optional Bulkbin Walkway.......................................................................................................................3-7
Continued on Next Page

CONTENTS CX Hammer with PLC
Contents ii JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)
Section 4: OPERATION
MACHINE OPERATION................................................................................................................................................4-1
Work Operation.......................................................................................................................................................4-1
Spike Driving (without Nippers)...............................................................................................................................4-2
Spike Driving (with Nippers in Automatic Mode).....................................................................................................4-2
Spike Driving (with Nippers in Manual Mode) .........................................................................................................4-2
Spike Driving While Gaging Rail .............................................................................................................................4-3
Winch Operation......................................................................................................................................................4-4
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES.....................................................................................................................................4-5
Section 5: SHUTDOWN
SHUTDOWN..................................................................................................................................................................5-1
Parking or Locating Machine...................................................................................................................................5-1
Rotating Machine ....................................................................................................................................................5-2
Towing.....................................................................................................................................................................5-3
Section 6: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
GENERAL .....................................................................................................................................................................6-1
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE CHARTS..........................................................................................................6-2
Daily Tasks..............................................................................................................................................................6-2
Weekly Tasks..........................................................................................................................................................6-7
Monthly Tasks.......................................................................................................................................................6-11
Quarterly Tasks.....................................................................................................................................................6-12
Yearly Tasks..........................................................................................................................................................6-13

CX Hammer with PLC SAFETY
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) Section 1-1
SAFETY
Please read and comply with all of the
safety precautions in this manual BEFORE
operating this machine.
GENERAL
DO NOT use this machine for machine
operations other than for which it was
intended.
NORDCO is not responsible for any
modifications made without authorization or
written approval. Replace all NORDCO
and OEM parts with genuine NORDCO or
OEM parts. Use of non-OEM parts could
compromise the safety of your machine.
FRA regulations require that a copy of this
Operation Manual be kept on the machine
at all times. Additional copies of the
Operation Manual only can be ordered
from Nordco Parts Sales at 1-800-647-
1724.
FOLLOW SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Carefully read all safety messages in this
manual. Learn how to operate the
machine and how to use controls properly.
Do not let anyone operate this machine
without instruction. Failure to understand
the contents of this manual could result in
serious personal injury or death.
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOLS!
These are the safety-alert symbols.
These symbols means pay
attention! Your safety is at risk!
DANGER is used to indicate a definite
hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
WILL result in severe bodily harm or even
death.
WARNING indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
COULD result in severe bodily harm or
even death.
CAUTION indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
MAY result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION without the safety “!” means that
failure to follow the alert may result in
machine damage.
SAFETY means that the following points
are instructions for safely operating the
machine or the specific component of the
machine.

SAFETY CX Hammer with PLC
Section 1-2 JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)
GENERAL SAFETY TIPS
Only trained and authorized personnel
should be allowed to operate this machine.
In addition, all personnel at the worksite
(gang) should be aware of the safety
concerns and their individual
responsibilities prior to working this
machine.
1. Handle fuel safely. It is highly
flammable and prolonged
breathing of fumes may cause
bodily harm.
2. Prepare for emergencies. Keep a
first aid kit and fire extinguisher
handy.
3. Protect against flying pieces of
metal and debris by wearing safety
glasses or goggles.
4. Wear good-fitting pants and shirt,
no baggy or loose clothing.
5. Protect your head and eyes from
flying debris by wearing a hard hat
and safety goggles/glasses.
6. Wear leather gloves to protect your
hands from vibration or flying metal
particles.
7. Use safety-toed work boots.
SAFETY PRIOR TO WORKING
All personnel at the worksite (gang) should
be aware of the safety concerns and their
individual responsibilities prior to working
this machine:
•Review the operating instructions if
you are unsure of anything.
•Use the “pre-operational checklist”
to check the machine for obvious
faults. Repair or replace as
necessary PRIOR to operating the
machine.
•Before climbing onto the machine,
make certain the area around and
under the machine is clear of
obstructions and personnel.
•Use care when climbing onto the
machine. Always use the steps
and handrails provided. (If an area
does not have tread grips,
walkways, or other methods to
access the area, then DO NOT
attempt to access that area.)
•Make seat and control adjustments
PRIOR to starting the machine.
ALWAYS wear a seatbelt.
•Know the weather forecast and
plan your work speeds accordingly.
•There are guards on this machine.
These are to be removed ONLY
when service or maintenance is
being performed on that area of
the machine. Make certain they
have been re-installed PRIOR to
starting the machine.
•Check and service the fire
extinguisher (if so provided) at
regular intervals. Make certain all
personnel are trained in its use.
Note - Non-use of fire extinguisher
still requires that it be recharged at
the interval stated on its last
inspection notice.
•Keep the stairs, cab entry platform
and cab interior free and clear of
ice, tools and personal items. Use
the accessories provided on the
machine (tool box, cup holder, coat
hook, etc.) to properly store your
gear.
•Never climb onto the machine
while it is in motion.
•There are lockups on this machine
that are used for both work and
travel. These should be kept clear
and free of debris, grease, etc.
See Lockup section for
instructions on their use.
•Inspect safety decals and replace
when they become unreadable or
are damaged. (See “Safety
Decals”at the end of this Safety
section).

CX Hammer with PLC SAFETY
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) Section 1-3
SAFETY WHILE STARTING THE
MACHINE
NORDCO recommends the use of a
Command position. This means that the
machine is never running unless someone
is at or near the main control panel. To
prevent injury to personnel or damage to
the machine, it is highly recommended to:
1. Only start and operate the machine
from the operator’s seat.
2. Use the “STARTUP Checklist” to
check the machine controls and
gauges to make certain all systems
are operating correctly.
SAFETY WHILE
OPERATING/TRAVELING
1. Never allow more riders than seats and
seatbelts allow. This machine was
designed to be operated by two
people.
2. The machine is to be operated from
the Operator’s seats only. Do NOT
stand and operate this machine.
3. Press the EMERGENCY STOP
pushbutton on the center control
console in emergencies and potentially
dangerous situations.
4. If personnel or bystanders are near the
machine during operation, give a
warning signal using the air horn. If
they fail to respond to this warning,
stop operation immediately.
5. Slow down the work cycle and use
slower travel speeds in congested or
populated areas.
6. Halt work if visibility is poor. Strong
rains, fog, and extremely dusty
conditions can affect visibility in your
work area. Wait for the weather to
improve before continuing work.
SAFETY WHILE PARKED
When leaving a machine engine running,
make certain that the parking brake is
applied and the electrical interlock button
has been activated.
NEVER stop and park this machine on an
incline unless the machine wheels have
been chocked.
SAFETY DURING MAINTENANCE
The following guidelines are suggested
when performing maintenance:
1. Always chock the wheels
2. Alert others in the area that service
or maintenance is being performed
on this machine.
3. Become familiar with, and use,
your company’s lockout/tagout
procedures when performing
maintenance on this machine. See
LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
REQUIREMENTS later in this
Safety Section for a chart on
energy sources located on this
machine.
4. Do not start the engine if repairs or
work is being performed alone.
You should always have at least
two people working together if the
engine must be run during service.
One person needs to remain in
the command position (at the
controls), ready to stop the
machine and shut off engine if the
need arises.
5. Collect oils and fuels and dispose
of them properly. There is a
danger of scalding when working
with engine oils.
6. Use only Nordco supplied repair
parts for this machine. Use of non-
OEM designed parts could
comprise the integrity of this
machine.
7. There are welding cautions on this
machine. Pay attention to them
PRIOR to welding.
8. Kits supplied by Nordco have
welding instructions included.
Welding of any components NOT
of Nordco’s manufacture or failure
to follow these instructions may
affect the stability of this machine.

SAFETY CX Hammer with PLC
Section 1-4 JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)
MACHINE SAFETY
ALERTS
DANGER ALERTS
Improper use of this machine for
any type of operation can cause
serious injury or death.
To avoid serious injury or death,
make certain that the area around
and under the machine is clear of
all personnel and obstructions
BEFORE travelling or working.
Serious injury or death can result
from reaching into working
components while machine is
running. Make all observations
from a distance and SHUT OFF
machine while making adjustments.
Shut off engine when checking
battery electrolyte level. Do not
check or fill battery in presence of
open flame, sparks, or when
smoking. Battery fumes are
flammable and/or explosive and if
ignited will result in severe bodily
injury or death.
Do not ride on tow bar between the
machine and the towing vehicle.
Falling from a moving vehicle may
cause serious injury or death.
MACHINE SAFETY
ALERTS
WARNING ALERTS
Failure to engage all lockup devices
before propelling at travel speed
can result in injury to personnel
and/or extensive damage to the
machine.
Remove hoses/fittings only when
system is not pressurized. High
pressure leaks can cause personal
injury. If equipped with
accumulator, isolate using ball
valve.
Always turn off machine when
performing maintenance, making
adjustments, or whenever
unintended movement of machine
could occur; unless directed
otherwise. Failure to comply could
result in personal injury and/or
damage to the machine.
Exhaust emissions caused by the
use of the engine on this machine
may cause cancer, birth defects, or
other reproductive harm if inhaled.
Disconnect the battery before
servicing this machine. Failure to
do so could result in personal injury
from accidental engine startup.

CX Hammer with PLC SAFETY
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) Section 1-5
LOCKOUT-TAGOUT PROCEDURES
NORDCO has provided the means to lockout this machine. NORDCO cannot be held
responsible for injury caused by failure to comply with your company’s Lockout/Tagout
Procedures.
The following procedures are designed to lead the operator through the steps required to shut the machine
down and prepare it for performing mechanical maintenance work. These procedures are intended to release
potentially dangerous stored energy forms and make the machine safe to begin repairs. It is your company’s
responsibility to Lockout/Tagout Procedures based on this list, train you in their proper and safe use, and to
periodically inspect your work area to verify that you are complying with the procedures. Lockout/Tagout
Procedures must be followed!
SAFETY PROCEDURES
LOCKOUT/TAGOUT
1. If you have not already done so, determine which components are to
have maintenance. Place all machine mechanical systems or workheads
in the full up and locked positions.
2. When mechanical locking up of equipment is not feasible for
maintenance lower the component to the ground prior to working on the
equipment.
3. Apply the Electrical Interlock/Warmup.
4. Chock wheels to prevent accidental rolling of machine on grade.
5. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. This turns off the power to
the control circuits on the machine. Place a TAGOUT card in close
proximity to the ignition switch.
6. Turn the battery disconnect switch (BDS) to the OFF position.
a. For machines with the BDS on the left side of the center (front)
control console: Place a TAGOUT card on the switch after you
have switched it to the OFF position.
b. For machines with a remotely located BDS (usually next to the
battery box itself): Close the cover to the disconnect switch and
place a LOCKOUT lock on the box after you have switched it to
the OFF position.
7. Bleed off hydraulic pressure. If equipped with accumulator, isolate it by
using ball valve.
8. Follow all of your company’s lockout/tagout rules before proceeding.
Note: When working on machine components, be aware that moving
components during repairs may create energy (ie., moving a hydraulic
cylinder). Proper precautions should be taken.

SAFETY CX Hammer with PLC
Section 1-6 JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)
HAZARD DECALS ON THIS MACHINE
Hazard decals and plaques that have been placed on this machine are to be kept clean and legible.
Replace any decals or plaques that have become illegible or are missing.
When repairing or replacing components that had hazard decals on them, it is your responsibility to
replace the decals. Refer to Figure 6-4 in the Mechanical Section for a list of all decals and plaques on
this machine.

CX Hammer with PLC GENERAL
JANUARY/2020 (OM410003) Section 1-9
GENERAL
This manual contains information for the CX Hammer machine manufactured by NORDCO INC., Oak Creek,
Wisconsin. Information is provided in this manual for operation and maintenance of the machine.
Become familiar with all safety instructions, controls and instruments before operating this machine. Follow all
instructions carefully.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This manual has been broken down into sections which have been separated by index tabs:
Mechanical has individual parts breakdown drawings and lists for each assembly
Hydraulic includes adjustment instructions and troubleshooting for the hydraulic system; and all
piping and functional drawings for a standard machine and optional equipment
Electrical, includes electrical schematics, distribution and control boxes, and cabling drawings for the
machine; as well as troubleshooting instructions
ABOUT THIS OPERATION MANUAL
This manual has been updated to be all-inclusive for S/N’s 410500 and Above. See the 2nd page of this
manual for the part number to order for your particular serial number.

GENERAL CX Hammer with PLC
Section 1-10 JANUARY/2020 (OM410003)
SPECIFICATIONS 
GENERAL
Gross Weight............................................................................................................................30,350 lbs (13,766 kg)*
Length.....................................................................................................................................................25’-8” (7.82 m)
Width.........................................................................................................................................................8’-6” (2.60 m)
Height...........................................................................................................................................................9’-10” (3 m)
Travel Speed......................................................................................................................25 mph maximum (40 km/h)
Rated Draw Bar Pull .........................................................................................................................1,650 lbs. (750 kg)
Turntable....................................................................................................................................Hydraulically Operated
Wheel Base.......................................................................................................................163 inches (4.1 m/4100 mm)
Towing Speed....................................................................................................................20 mph maximum (32 km/h)
Spiking Down Force.........................................................................................................................2,200 lbs. (9820 N)
CAPACITIES
Fuel Tank: .................................................................................................................................120 gallons (454 liters)
Hydraulic Oil Tank......................................................................................................................110 gallons (416 liters)
Oil Cooler.......................................................................................................................................100 gpm (378 L/mn)
ENGINE
Make/Model (S/N 410950-411499)....................................................................................John Deere, 4045TF, Tier 3
Type............................................................................................................................................... 4-Cylinder, 4-Stroke
Idle Speed.......................................................................................................................................................1100 rpm
Continuous BHP .....................................................................................................................99 @2200 rpm - full load
Make/Model (S/N 410950-411499 with ASF Option).........................................................John Deere, 4045TF, Tier 3
Type............................................................................................................................................... 4-Cylinder, 4-Stroke
Idle Speed.......................................................................................................................................................1100 rpm
Continuous BHP ...................................................................................................................140 @2200 rpm - full load
Make/Model (With PVM098 Pump) ........................................................................................ Cummins QSB4.5 Tier 3
Type............................................................................................................................................... 4-Cylinder, 4-Stroke
Idle Speed.......................................................................................................................................................1150 rpm
Continuous BHP ...................................................................................................................110 @2200 rpm - full load
Make/Model (With PVM131 Pump) ........................................................................................ Cummins QSB4.5 Tier 3
Type............................................................................................................................................... 4-Cylinder, 4-Stroke
Idle Speed.......................................................................................................................................................1100 rpm
Continuous BHP ...................................................................................................................148 @2200 rpm - full load
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Pressure Settings:
Relief Valve - Main Pump ...........................................................................................................3,000 psi (200 bar)
Compensator - Main Pump........................................................................................................2, 250 psi (172 bar)
Main Pump Make............................................................................................................................Vickers PVH Series
Control Valves..................................................................................................................................Vickers Manifolded
- Continued on next Page -
Items or capacities may vary according to options on your machine.
* Approximate weight. Actual weight may vary according to options on your machine. Actual weight of
your machine is as stenciled.

CX Hammer with PLC GENERAL
JANUARY/2020 (OM410003) Section 1-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery...............................................................................24 Vdc (Dual 12V dc Batteries), 1150 Cold Cranking Amps
Ground.............................................................................................................................................................Negative
DRIVE SYSTEM
Drive Type........................................................................................................................... Single and Dual Axle Drive
Propulsion Motor Type.................................................................................................................................... Hydraulic
AXLE/WHEELS
Front Axle Size.....................................................................................................................................3-inch, Standard
Rear Axle Size.....................................................................................................................................3-inch, Standard
3-7/16 inch on machines equipped
with bulk loader
Wheel Type....................................................................................................................................................Cast Steel
Wheel Size......................................................................................................................... 16 inch ( 406 mm) diameter
Brake Type..........................................................Four wheel shoe type, spring actuated, hydraulic release - standard
Air brakes - Optional
All rights reserved. In view of the constant improvements to our equipment, the specification data and
other technical information included in this manual are subject to change. No part of this manual may be
reproduced in any form or by any means without our written permission.

GENERAL CX Hammer with PLC
Section 1-12 JANUARY/2020 (OM410003)
This Page Intentionally Left Blank

CX Hammer with PLC PRE-OPERATION
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) Section 2-1
Before operating this machine, read and
understand the Safety Section of this
Manual.
BEFORE OPERATION
Improper use of this machine for any type
of operation can cause serious injury or
death.
It is always good practice to become totally
familiar with the machines you are going to
operate.
OPERATOR'S STATION
Almost all the controls for running this
machine are located in the Operator’s
Station. This includes but is not limited to
the logic box, remote operator control
boxes, propulsion and braking foot
switches.
There are three seats on the machine. The
two facing the workheads are for the
operators, the third - facing the operators -
is for the loader, if used.
Located next to each Operator’s seat is a
Remote Operator Control Box. See
Figure 1. These are used during work
operations and, depending on the options
installed on your machine, allow the
operators to set the workhead pattern
using electric actuators, lower the guide
roller, sound horns, select method of
braking (deadman or service) and mode of
travel (work or travel), and stop the
machine in the event of an emergency.
Status of the brakes and travel mode
selections can be seen by illuminated
diodes on the box.
Each operator is responsible for a
particular workhead on the machine. Each
workhead consists of two gun assemblies
(left and right). Each operator has two
hand controllers that control the function
of the guns in front of them. See Figure 2.
The left operator controls guns 1 and 2, the
right operator controls guns 3 and 4.
Carriage movement is controlled by the
right hand controller at each operator seat.
Moving the hand controller forward and
back, and left and right, allows you to
center the carriage manually.
Foot switches are located on the flooring in
front of both the left and right operators.
The use of a toggle switch on the main
control panel allows only one operator at a
time to control the movement of the
machine. This is done to prevent
unintentional movement of the machine.
You must select either right operator
control or left operator control of the foot
pedals.
Always use your seat belt when
sitting in the operator’s seats.
Always use the handrails and steps
provided to climb on to and off of
the machine.

PRE-OPERATION CX Hammer with PLC
Section 2-2 JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)
WORKHEAD COMPONENTS
CARRIAGE
The position (forward/backward - left/right)
is controlled by the right hand controller at
each operator station. Hand controller
movement (forward/backward - left/right)
controls two hydraulic cylinders (one
attached to the top of the carriage and the
other attached to the Carriage Guide
Wheel Assembly) which provide movement
on the carriage guide shafts.
CARRIAGE GUIDE WHEEL
Located between the outer and inner
carriages is the guide wheel. This guide
roller functions as a workhead stabilizer
and is controlled by a hydraulic cylinder
(up and down movement of guide roller)
and a second hydraulic cylinder controls
the left/right movement of the carriage
assembly.
WORKHEAD
The workhead assembly includes the
driving cylinder, the hammer, and spike
feeding and drive assembly. Hole pattern
adjustments for workhead spacing are
made using the pattern adjust switch
located on the Operator Control Box.
The up/down/ready condition of the
workhead is controlled through a series of
proximity switches mounted to the side of
the carriage frame. The prox switch
controls the ready position of the
workhead. This controls the distance the
workhead travels before actually driving in
the spike. This switch is adjustable. See
WORKHEAD ADJUSTMENTS later in this
section.
MANIFOLDS
The Model CX hydraulic system uses a
series of manifolds. More detailed
information regarding the hydraulic system
and manifolds is located behind the tab
marked “HYDRAULICS”. This includes a
layout of the machine and the locations of
all hydraulic components.
PROPULSION/DRIVE SYSTEM
The machine is propelled with both axles
with a chain drive. There are two hydraulic
motors; one located directly below the
propulsion manifold on the engine end of
the frame - the other located below the
right operator on the operator end of the
machine.
BOOM/WINCH (OPTIONAL)
The boom/winch system is in place to allow
the operator to easily lift kegs of spikes
onto the rear storage deck. The winch is
capable of lifting loads up to 300 lbs. It is
not designed or intended to be used for
towing. The boom and winch should be
locked up for travel or when not being
used. See lockup requirements in the
Lockup section of this manual.
Boom/Winch is not supplied on a
machine equipped with the optional
Bulk Spike Loader System.
LOGIC BOX CONTROL PANEL
The control panel contains nearly all of the
operator selectable items on the machine,
with the exception of the remote operator
control boxes. The control panel drawing
on the next page is representative of a
standard machine with gager. Due to
constant improvements and
remanufacturing, your box may not be as
shown, but the controls are similar. Refer
to the following pages and become familiar
with the controls on this machine!
BULK LOADER (OPTIONAL)
The bulk loader is hydraulically driven
spike loader that is designed to “feed”
spikes into the spike bin located between
the two operators. Spikes are carried to
the spike bin using a “push style” ram
driven by a hydraulic cylinder.

CX Hammer with PLC PRE-OPERATION
JANUARY/2020 (OM410004) Section 2-3
GAGER (OPTIONAL)
The gager assembly is a series of 4
hydraulic cylinders and lever arms that are
designed to position the rails into the
proper gage prior to spiking operations.
Used with the gager buggy, which sends
an electrical signal to the digital meter on
the logic box control panel, proper gage is
determined and a signal sent back to the
valves located on the gager manifold that
begin the process of gaging. Valves open
or close as necessary to move the lever
arms in/out to position the rail into place.
The gager levers must be locked up for
travel. See lockup requirements in the
LOCKUP section of this manual.
NIPPER ASSEMBLY
Located in the center of the machine,
between the workheads is the nipper
assembly (See Figure to right). It is used
to pull the tie up to the rail to secure the tie
plate to the tie during spiking operations. A
large hydraulic cylinder controls the
up/down position of the nipper assembly,
while a second and smaller hydraulic
cylinder controls the open close position of
the nipper tie hooks themselves. The
nipper housing is supported by guide
blocks, which are used to guide the nipper
housing up and down. This assembly
must be locked up for travel. See lockup
requirements in the LOCKUP section of
this manual.

PRE-OPERATION CX Hammer with PLC
Section 2-4 JANUARY/2020 (OM410004)