Opico SWARD SLITTER Operator's manual

OPERATION MANUAL & SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SWARD SLITTER
GB, GBL & GBW
Version: 15 04 Sward slitter PV
OPICO LIMITED
Cherry Holt Road
Bourne
Lincolnshire PE10 9LA
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.opico.co.uk

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 2
INDEX
GLOSSARY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. .... 3
INTRODUCTION ....……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4
1. PURPOSE OF THE SWARD SLITTER……………………………………………………………………………………...... 5
2. LIABILITY AND WARRANTY………………………………………………………………………………………………. ..... 5
3. DANGER AND SAFETY DECALS…………………………………………………………………………………………....... 6
4. THE LOCATION OF THE DECALS………………………………………………………………………………………........ 9
5. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. .. 11
5.1 GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................... 11
5.2 ROAD TRANSPORT AND USE ............................................................................................................ 11
5.3 MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING...................................................................................................... 12
5.4 MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................. 12
5.5 HYDRAULIC SYSTEM....................................................................................................................... 13
5.6 TYRES ......................................................................................................................................... 14
6. MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING ............................................................................................. 15
6.1 MOUNTING ................................................................................................................................. 15
6.2 DISMOUNTING AND STORING.......................................................................................................... 16
7. ADJUSTING GRASSLAND AERATOR........................................................................................... 17
7.1 ADJUSTING THE WORKING DEPTH .................................................................................................... 17
8. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE ........................................................................................................... 18
8.1 INSTRUCTIONS FOR WEIGHT SPINDLES............................................................................................... 18
9. MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................................................... 19
9.1 GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................... 19
9.2 LUBRICATION ............................................................................................................................... 20
10. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS..................................................................................................... 21
11. ORDERING PARTS ..................................................................................................................... 22
12. EC CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY ............................................................................................ 23
APPENDIX I:................................................................................................................................................
PARTS LIST ................................................................................................................................ 24
I.1 BLADES AND ROLLER: .................................................................................................................... 24
I.2 BLADES AND ROLLER: .................................................................................................................... 25
I.3 GENERAL-PURPOSE : ..................................................................................................................... 26
I.4 WEIGHT SPINDLES (OLD) ................................................................................................................ 27
I.5 CONCRETE SLITTER WEIGHTS (NEW)................................................................................................. 29
I.6 IDENTIFICATION PLATE,PATENT PLATE AND SAFETY DECALS: ................................................................. 30

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 3
GLOSSARY
NOTE
All figures, dimensions and weights are free of engagement.
References to direction in the text, such as "left", "right", "front" and "rear", are always meant to be
seen from the forward travel direction of the tractor.
The same applies to the directions clockwise and counter clockwise.
If you come across this symbol and heading, there is a direct
hazard to life and health of man and animal!
This heading refers to possible risks of damage to machine(s),
crops, buildings, etc. But also to possible financial and/or legal
problems (warranty, liability, and the like)!
This indicates a tip to make work easier, better and safer.

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 4
INTRODUCTION
Dear user,
This is the operation manual for the GB, GBL and GBW Sward Slitter.
In order to use the Sward Slitter as safely as possible, you should be well aware of all
recommendations and instructions in this manual. Damage and accidents caused by non-
observance of these recommendations and instructions are your responsibility.
Please ensure that this operation manual is kept in a safe place for future reference.
If you have any more questions after reading this manual, please contact your dealer.
EVERS AGRO B.V.
Almelo, February 17
Read the operation manual carefully before starting to work with
the machine and observe all instructions!
Pass on all safety instructions to other (fellow) users!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 5
1. PURPOSE OF THE SWARD SLITTER
Field of application
The Sward Slitter is solely for use in regular arable farming. The Sward Slitter is designed to
relieve the surface compaction in our grassland. This compaction in the top layer of
grassland is caused by rainfall, livestock damage and traffic with heavy machines.
Important features of the Sward Slitter are:
* Higher yields with more quality.
* Better absorption of water, oxygen and plant food elements.
* Less change for unwanted grass species to grow.
2. LIABILITY AND WARRANTY
Anyone operating the machine, or carrying out adjustments or maintenance should read this
manual carefully and observe the instructions to prevent danger.
That also means:
1. That work may only be carried out within the functional limits (e.g. max. speed), as
laid down in the instructions for operation, maintenance and repair.
2. That locally applying regulation for accident prevention, safety, traffic and transport
are to be observed.
3. That exclusively original or equivalent parts and lubricants must be used and
mounted according to the instructions. A part and/or lubricant is considered
equivalent when it has been approved by the manufacturer or when it can be
demonstrated that it has the properties required for the function(s) in question.
4. That any changes / modifications on the machine that have not been approved in
writing by the manufacturer, exclude all liability of the manufacturer for any damage.
Any deviating use is considered not matching the intended
purpose. The user bears the risk of any damage and/or accidents.
The above does not apply if in advance written approval has been
obtained from the manufacturer!
Non-observance of the above rules shall be considered negligence.
It will rule out any liability of the manufacturer for all possible
damage and/or consequences.
The user is fully en solely responsible for any risk!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 6
3. DANGER AND SAFETY DECALS
There are a number of safety decals on the machine. The ones used and there place on this machine
are shown on the next page.
They have the following meaning:
Working safely also means that you take proper notice of the
various decals on the machine. You must know what they warn
you for!
Danger:
Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition when
working on the machine!
Attention:
Carefully read the operating manual before taking the machine
into operation!
Danger:
There is a risk of flying objects and / or clods!
Keep clear!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 7
Danger:
Keep away from the fold-down parts when the locking pins with
inserted retaining clip are not mounted!
Keep clear!
Danger:
There is a risk of parts folding down!
Fix the locking pins with inserted retaining clip!
Danger:
Never stand between the tractor and the machine when the
power lift is being operated!
Danger:
Risk of injection at a leaking hydraulic system!
Liquid under pressure easily penetrates through skin and clothing
this can cause heavy injuries!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 8
Danger:
In operating position the top link must be higher on the machine side than on the tractor
side!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 9
4. THE LOCATION OF THE DECALS
If decals are loose, have become illegible or are no longer on the
machine, these must be replaced as well!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 10
If decals are loose, have become illegible or are no longer on the
machine, these must be replaced as well!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 11
5. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 General
The machine must only be used, operated and maintained by people who are familiar
with the machine and who are aware of the risks!
The operator should familiarize him-/herself with all controls and their functions
before starting work. During work could be too late!
In addition to the specific instructions of this manual, you should also study the
general regulations for safety and accidents prevention in your country!
5.2 Road transport and use
Always observe the road traffic regulations when using public roads!
Check the safety of the machine and tractor before use as regards work and traffic!
Observe the maximum permissible axle load, total weight and transport dimensions!
Prior to road transport, check and mount transport accessories such as lighting,
warning signs and any protective parts!
Put the machine in the position intended for road transport and lock it according to
the instructions!
Always make sure that the machine has sufficient lateral stability in transport
position!
In case of road transport with the machine in lifted position, the control lever of the
power lift must be locked to prevent lowering!
Look around the machine and the tractor before driving off or starting to work. Make
sure you have sufficient view. Look out for children!
It is strictly prohibited to be on the machine during work or transport!
The driver's seat must at all-time be occupied during driving!
Handling, maneuverability and brake performance are influenced by mounted
machines and front weights. Therefore, make sure you work with an adequate
steering and breaking installation.
Always adapt the forward speed to the condition of the terrain!
When making turns, take into account the length/width (turning circle) and/or
swinging out, due to the large mass of the machine!
Only work with machines with the protective provisions complete, intact and in the
functional position!
Read and understand these instructions before working with the
machine!
If these safety instructions aren’t observed, all liability of the
manufacturer for any damage is excluded!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 12
There must be nobody within the operating and danger range (including turning and
swinging circle) of the machine. At the rear of the machine clods or other objects
may be flung away!
There must be nobody between the tractor and the machine, until the vehicle is
prevented from moving by means of the parking brake and/or wheels chocks!
When leaving the tractor, put the machine on the ground, switch off the tractor
engine and remove the ignition key!
The warning decals on the machine give important instructions for safe use;
observing them is for your own safety!
The user must wear closely fitting clothes. Avoid loose clothing!
Always mount weights on the tractor according to the instructions on the fixation
points intended for that purpose!
5.3 Mounting and dismounting
Mount machines and accessories according to the instructions and mount the
machine and/or parts/accessories only to the provisions intended for that purpose.
Make sure they are locked effectively!
Special care must be taken when mounting or dismounting the machine on or off the
tractor
When mounting or dismounting the machine on or off the three-point linkage, put
the power lift control in a position in which inadvertently lifting or lowering is not
possible!
For a three-point linkage the linkage category of the machine must always match
with that of the tractor!
The three-point linkage system constitutes a risk of accidents by getting caught and
jack-knifing. The same risk exists with the cylinders (if mounted) and the linkage arms
and lifts rods!
The control for the three-point power lift outside the tractor cab must be operated
without getting between the tractor and the machine!
The release ropes for quick coupler should hang freely and in the lowered position
must not release the quick coupler by themselves!
5.4 Maintenance
Repair, maintenance and cleaning activities, as well as repairing malfunctions, must
only be carried out with the tractor engine switched off. Remove the ignition key!
When the machine is in the lifted position for repair, cleaning or maintenance,
support legs must be used. Only work on a firm surface!
Regularly check to ensure all bolts and nuts are tight. Tighten if necessary!
Parts must at least satisfy the technical specifications prescribed by the
manufacturer!
Always check whether replaced and/or dismounted parts are mounted correctly

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 13
before using the machine again!
Ensure that any damage is repaired at once before using the machine again!
When conducting electrical welding operations on the tractor or on the mounted
implement remove cable from the generator and the battery!
Before working on the electric gear disconnect battery cables!
When replacing cutting edges, always use the suitable tools and gloves!
Dispose of old oils and grease as prescribed by law.
After using the machine and/or cleaning, grease the rams of the cylinders to prevent
corrosion.
5.5 Hydraulic system
The hydraulic system carries a high pressure!
When connecting hydraulic cylinders the instructions for connecting hydraulic hoses
must be observed!
Hoses from the cylinders must be routed in such manner that under all transport and
operating conditions they cannot cause undesirable situations and/or cannot hinder
any functions!
Never try to locate or shut off a leak in the hydraulic system with your hands. Fluid
under high pressure can easily penetrate skin and clothing and it can cause severe
injuries. When injured see a doctor immediately! Danger of infection!
Ensure that the hydraulic system of the tractor and that of the machine are pressure
less when connecting or disconnecting the hose!
The hydraulically operated parts may only be operated when there is nobody within
the danger zone (turning circle) of these parts!
When hydraulically folding frame sections are in the transport position (folded up)
the lock pins with inserted retaining clip must be placed in the holes intended for
that purpose!
For hydraulic connectors between tractor and machine the couplings and plugs must
be marked. When connections are interchanged, the function reverses (e.g.
lifting/lowering) - Risk of accidents!
Check the hydraulic hoses, pipes and all connections regularly and replace them in
case of deterioration and damage. New hoses must satisfy the technical
specifications prescribed by the manufacturer!
Before carrying out work on the hydraulic system, the machine must be lowered to
the ground and the hydraulic system must be made pressure less (move the lever of
the control valve a few times back and forth with the engine switched off)!
In transport position the control valve of the hydraulic functions must be in the
neutral position!
After using the machine and/or after cleaning the machine with
water, grease the rams of the cylinders to prevent corrosion!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 14
Always lay down a disconnected hydraulic hose in such a manner that the plug stays
clean!
5.6 Tyres
Fitting tyres requires knowledge and special tools!
When working on the tyres, make sure that the machine has been placed on the
ground safely and that it is secured by chocks against unintentional rolling!
Repair work on tyres may only be conducted by trained staff and with suitable tools!
Check the tyres regularly and replace them in case of deterioration and damage. New
tyres must satisfy the technical specifications prescribed by the manufacturer!
Check the pressure of the tyres regularly and adhere to the advised air pressure. (See
table).
In case of doubt, contact your dealer or see a tyre tension table.
Tyre
Max.
speed
Min. pressure in
Bar
Best pressure in
Bar
Max. Pressure in
Bar
195 65/15
30 km/h
2
2,5
3
10.0/75 - 15,3
14pr
40km/h
3.5
5.5
7

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 15
6. MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING
The standard version is based on a three-point linkage: Category II three-point linkage. ( = lift
pins 28 mm, top link pin 25 mm and retaining clips 11 mm and 8 mm).
This machine can also be fitted with a Category III three-point linkage (= lift pins 36,5 mm,
top link pin 31,5 mm and retaining clips 11 mm).
Do not use pins with a smaller diameter!
Make sure that the three point linkage has enough stabilisation to the side! The machine
should not be able to move more than 5 cm sideways.
During mounting, dismounting and transport of the machine, the power lift of the tractor
must be in position control, and must be protected against accidental lowering!
6.1 Mounting
There are two mounting options for the top link pin, 2 round holes, A and B. In operating
position the top link must be higher on the machine side than on the tractor side! Only in
this position is it possible for the machine to move up in cases where the soil is not
completely flat. The lift pins can be placed in the holes C.
Fig 6.1 The top link must be higher on the machine side than on the tractor side!
When the machine is in working position, the tractors power lift must be in the position that
is half automatic draft control and half position control, in this way there will be enough
Always place the supplied pins and retaining clips and check
whether they are locked securely!
A
B
C

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 16
pressure on the rear tyres of the tractor to get enough grip and the working depth does not
change when suddenly encountering a hard subsoil. .( see the manual of the tractor). Only
connect the hydraulic hoses when the hydraulic system of the tractor and that of the
Grassland Aerator are pressure less. Also see to it that the connections are made according
to the function. Put the machine in lifted position and remove the support legs. Adjust the
check rods or chains of the tractor correctly to prevent lateral sway.
6.2 Dismounting and storing
Make sure that the tractor hydraulic is set to position control.
It is important to thoroughly clean the machine with water.
The bearings and joints should also be greased as prescribed in chapter 9
Maintenance.
Dispose of old oils and grease as prescribed by law.
When the machine is in lifted position, place the support legs under the machine.
Let the machine rest on a flat soil.
Only disconnect the hydraulic hoses when the hydraulic system of the tractor and
that of the Grassland Aerator are pressure less
Make sure the machine has enough stability.
Dismount the machine from the tractor.
Grease the rams of the cylinders to prevent corrosion.

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 17
7. ADJUSTING GRASSLAND AERATOR.
NOTE
7.1 Adjusting the working depth
The working depth of the grassland aerator with the blades is controlled by the hydraulics of
the tractor (please consult your tractor manual for this)
The machine is also adjustable to vary the aggressiveness of the blades in order to prevent
damage to the sod.
Important:
Make sure that the machine is completely horizontal, if this is not the case it can be adjusted
with the top link.
The mounting height depends on the tyre size of the tractor. It is
recommended to have the lower links as level as possible, while
the top link is mounted higher to the machine than to the tractor.
Adjustable rotor angle

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 18
8. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
It is forbidden to make tight turns with the machine in working position.
The GBL version is only owned for light types of soil.
It is not advisable to use the Sward slitter on ground where there are a lot of heavy
stones (stones >15cm)
It is not advisable to use the GBL-3 Sward slitter one ground where are stones in it.
The machine can only work properly when travelling forward.
Set the rate of drop of the power lift in such a manner that when lowering into the
soil or putting down, the machine does not bump on the ground, so as to prevent
damage to shares, axle and bearings.
When lifting the machine out of the soil, this is best achieved whilst moving the
tractor slightly backwards.
It is not allowed to exert additional pressure/weight on the machine by means of the
3-point linkage of the tractor for all types of grassland slitters.
8.1 instructions for weight spindles
Weights 3 and 6 mtr. machines mounting dimensions in MM (Steel/concrete weigth)

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 19
9. MAINTENANCE
9.1 General
Regularly check whether all bolts and nuts are tight.
Also check the bearings of the roller regularly.
After maintenance always check that the bearings are remounted correctly.
Check the hydraulic hoses, pipes and all connections regularly and replace them if
there is any deterioration or damage.
Clean the machine with water after every use.
When the machine has been in contact with manure, the bearings of the roller must
be filled with grease, to counteract the aggressive influence of ammonia.
It is important to thoroughly clean the machine with water. It is recommended to grease the
rams of the cylinders to prevent corrosion!
See chapter 5 “SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” sub 5.5 “Maintenance”
When the machine is in lifted position for repair, cleaning and
maintenance activities, support legs must be placed under the
machine and it must rest on them.
Switch off the engine and remove the ignition key!
After using the machine and/or after cleaning the machine with
water, grease the rams of the cylinders to prevent corrosion!
The disc blades are sharp. Avoid wrenches slipping when working
near the disc blades. Avoid climbing on machine above the disc
gangs where there is possibility of slipping or falling. Serious injury
could occur!

GB & GBW
SWARD SLITTER 20
9.2 Lubrication
Grease nipples are installed in the following places.
a) The bearings of the share axle.
b) The bushes of hydraulic cylinders.
c) The bushes/pins of the hinged joints
a) Every 20 working hours
The bearings must be topped up with grease every 20 working hours, after cleaning the
grease nipples, with a properly working manual grease gun, until pressure is clearly felt.
Usually two strokes of the gun will suffice. Directly after greasing, the disc must be turned at
least one revolution. Never use a compressor gun. Too high pressure can damage the grease
sealing ring, causing fine soil particles to enter the bearing housing. When the machine is
not to be used for any length of time, it is recommended that coat of grease or oil is applied,
particularly when the machine has been in contact with manure. Dispose of old oils and
grease as prescribed by law.
b) Twice a year
c) Twice a year