Predator P28X User manual

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Safety
Operating & Service
Instructions
Tracked Tree Stump Grinders
Updated 2019 ENGLISH
POWERFUL - COMPACT
This manual relates to the operation and maintenance of the P28X, P28RX, P38X, P38RX

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INTRODUCTION.
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Predator Tree Stump Grinder. If you have any
questions regarding the operation or service of the machine, please contact your supplying
dealer.
PURPOSE OF MACHINE.
The Predator tree stump grinder is designed to grind away tree stumps of any diameter from
above ground level to below ground level.
By the nature of its function the cutter on this machine has been designed to tolerate a certain
amount of contact with soil, vegetation and other natural material that may be found around
the base of a tree. It is not however designed specifically to cut through soil or materials other
than timber. To ensure the maximum life of the cutters and to keep the cutters sharp, contact
with soil, rock, flint brick and other hard materials around the base of the tree stump should be
kept to an absolute minimum.
Our tree stump grinders are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated
according to the instructions.
This manual contains important health and safety information and explains the machine
controls.
Read and understand this manual before operating the tree stump grinder. Take the time to
familiarise yourself with the machine controls before attempting to operate it and slowly build
up to operating the machine at its full capability. Failure to do so could result in personal injury,
death, equipment damage, damage to property, or injury to a member of the general public.
Ensure that all operators are adequately trained for operating this machine especially with safe
working practices.
This manual covers the operation and general maintenance of the machine. All information in
this manual is based on the latest product information available at time of publication.
NOTE - Also supplied with this manual is an engine manual and a separate CE Declaration of
Conformity.
All the information you need to operate the machine safely and effectively is contained within
this manual and the engine manual.
Predator’s policy of constantly improving their products may involve major or minor changes
to the machine and therefore we reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice
and
without incurring any obligation. This policy may result in minor discrepancies between the
actual tree stump grinder and the text in this manual.
NOTE
THIS MANUAL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED A PERMANENT PART OF THE MACHINE AND
SHOULD REMAIN WITH THE MACHINE IF RESOLD.

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RUNNING IN and other important notes and recommendations for the machine.
To achieve long life from your new machine it is important to run it in properly.
During the first few hours of use there is a bedding in period of components. Check all fittings
and hose connections regularly.
Clutch
It is standard that electro magnetic clutches need burnishing in and this is achieved by caus-
ing it to slip momentarily several times for short periods without generating too much heat.
With new machines this is undertaken in the factory. However, gentle use for the first 5 hours
is recommended to prolong the life of the clutch
Belts
New belts will stretch within the first few hours so they will require some tightening or they
will slip too much. Excessive slipping will wear the belts and the pulleys out prematurely.
Please follow the ‘Belt Tightening’ procedures on page ?
Engine
The engine can be run in at full RPM. The first service should be at 25 - 50 hours.
Duty Cycle
The Predator 38 is designed for duty cycles of no more than two hours between breaks. Ex-
tended periods could cause excessive heat to the hydraulic system and clutch. Breaks are
required to allow the machine to cool down. The length of the break depends on the ambient
temperature. Do not allow hydraulic oil temperature to increase above 65ºC ( 150ºF )
The guards and decals are an essential part of the machine. They must always be in place
and in good condition. Replacements are available from your local dealer or from Predator.
The use of genuine parts is very important. Copy parts might be of the same basic specifica-
tion but lack quality of function.

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SPECIFICATIONS.
ENGINE -
P28X and RX - Lombardini 9LD 21kW, air cooled, 2 cyl, electric start, diesel.
P38X and RX - Kohler CH980 26kW, air cooled, 2 cyl, electric start, petrol.
ENGINE OIL - Refer to Engine Manual
FUEL CAPACITY 20 Litres
HYDRAULIC CAPACITY approx. 40 litres = type AF45
CUTTER WHEEL RPM 1900
LENGTH 2350mm
WIDTH (D) 670mm
WIDTH (B) 1000mm
HEIGHT (A) 1300mm
WEIGHT gross 1000 Kg
CUTTING DEPTH 460mm
CUTTING HEIGHT 800mm
SLEW 1370mm
CUTTERS on cutting wheel 6 x 4
CUTTER WHEEL DIA. 500mm.
SERIAL NUMBERS.
Serial numbers relating to the Predator tree stump grinder can be found on the main chassis
on top of the machine.
Serial numbers relating to the engine can be found on the side of the engine.
Under no circumstances should any of these numbers be removed or defaced in any way.
These numbers should be quoted in any correspondence with your supplying dealer.

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NOTICES.
Whenever you see the symbols shown below, heed their instructions!
Always follow safe operating and maintenance practices.
DANGER.
This danger symbol indicates potential danger situations that can
quite probably cause severe injury or death if the danger is not
avoided and can also cause serious damage to machinery.
WARNING.
This warning symbol identifies special instructions or procedures
which, if not correctly followed, could result in severe personnel
injury.
CAUTION.
This caution symbol identifies special instructions or procedures
which, if not strictly observed, could result in damage to, or
destruction of, equipment.
IMPORTANT.
This message is used in situations where failure to take due
measures can shorten the working life of the machine.
NOTE.
This note symbol indicates points of particular interest for more
efficient and convenient operation.
PUTTING INTO SERVICE.
All Predator machines have a full pre-delivery inspection before leaving the factory and are
ready to use. The teeth might show signs of use. This is part of pre delivery tests. Read and
understand the instruction manual and become familiar with the stump grinder controls before
attempting to operate the machine. Ensure that all operators are adequately trained for
operating this machine especially with safe working practices.

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SAFETY INFORMATION.
FUEL.
Fuel can be injurious to the skin and highly flammable - wash off as soon as possible. If taken
internally seek immediate medical attention. Refer to your local fuel supplier for MSDS leaflet
and ensure you have carried out your own COSHH assesment.
Store fuel only in approved containers, in well ventilated, unoccupied buildings away from
naked flames. Do not fill the fuel tank while the engine is running.
EXHAUST FUMES.
Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odourless,
colourless and can cause death if inhaled.
Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes and never run the engine in a closed building or confined area.
HOT PARTS.
Engine components can get extremely hot from operation. To prevent severe burns, do not
touch these areas while the engine is running - or immediately after it is turned off.
Never operate the engine with heat shields or guards removed.
ELECTRICAL SHOCKS.
Never touch electrical wires or components while the engine is running - they can be sources
of electrical shock.
ROTATING CUTTER.
When the engine is turned off the cutter wheel could continue to rotate for a short while.
The teeth are sharp and could cause damage or injury even whilst not in motion.
BATTERIES.
Batteries contain Acid which is corrosive and poisonous.
Handle battery with care - if splashed there is a risk of burns and / or serious damage to eyes.
Wash affected area immediately with lots of clean water and seek medical advice.
Read the battery MSDS sheets as supplied.
EXPLOSIVE GASES.
Explosive gases given off from battery, keep sparks and flames away.

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PERSONAL SAFETY.
The following personal protective equipment (P.P.E.) must be worn by the person operating
this machine and also all personnel within a 20 metre radius of the machine.
Forestry safety helmet to EN 397 fitted with steel mesh visor to EN 166 and full ear protection
to EN 352-3.
Heavy duty gloves to EN 388. And Safety Goggles
Close fitting heavy duty non snag clothing and steel toe protection boots to EN 345.
Dust mask if the ground is very dry.
NOISE.
Noise levels of 114 dB(A) have been recorded at the working position.
VIBRATION
As required by the supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992, this unit has been designed
to reduce the risk from vibration (and noise) to the lowest level.
The nature /variation of working conditions makes definite rms acceleration values
incalculable, but it is understood that the acceleration level over an 8 hour day (A(8)) is lless
than 2.5m/sec ²
In order to reduce the effects of vibration, the following points ought to be adhered to:
Keep hands warm.
Exercise hands and fingers regularly during work.
Minimise the grip strength on the controls
Break up the working periods, if possible
Maintain the equipment – as instructed

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SAFE OPERATION.
MANOEUVRING ON SOFT GROUND.
Avoid driving on very soft or unstable ground. The machine could sink, slide, slew or turn over.
INCLINED SURFACES.
Manoeuvring on inclined surfaces is dangerous. Expand the track base and reduce the
manoeuvring speed in order to avoid the risk of tipping the machine over and skidding.
As far as possible avoid turning on inclined surfaces. When you have to turn on slopes, try to
do it on solid, non slippery sections.
Avoid traversing along steep slopes, since there's always the danger of overturning the
machine.
This machine is rated to climb slopes of up to 20°. Operating on slopes is undertaken at users
risk.
Before trying to go up a slope, make sure that the engine and the hydraulic system has
reached normal operating temperature. This will help prevent stalling.
CLOTHING.
DO NOT wear rings, bracelets, watches, jewellery or any other items that could be caught in
the machine controls. Always wear full protective clothing.
SMOKING.
DO NOT smoke when refueling.
CHILDREN.
DO NOT allow children or anyone who has not received instruction to operate the machine.
CLIMBING.
DO NOT climb on the machine at any time.
SAFETY OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
The Stump Grinder Cutter can eject debris at high speed - always maintain a 20 metre
exclusion zone for the general public. USE SUFFICIENT SCREENING TO PROTECT
AGAINST FLYING DEBRIS

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SAFE AREA.
Maintain the 20 metre exclusion zone as a safe working area around yourself and the stump
grinder. Keep this area clear from debris build up. Mark the area out with hazard tape. Keep
the area clear of animals as well as people.
KEEP CLEAR.
All operatives must keep well away from the cutter when the engine is running.
STARTING.
Always start the engine in the open air and allow to warm before operating.
Never operate the starter key for more than fifteen seconds at one time.
Sync remote or open rear cabinet door for remote control machines to start.
EMERGENCY STOPPING.
Push the RED STOP button and turn the ignition key to the off position.
SAFE USE.
Prior to starting cutter ensure the front control panel is rotated and securely located into its
position for cutter control. Ensure cutter guards are fitted, secure and intact.
With the engine switched off visually inspect the cutter wheel and ensure that there is no
obvious damage to the cutting teeth, that all teeth retaining bolts are tight and that there is no
debris trapped in the cutting teeth. Under no circumstances must the engine be running or the
ignition key be in the ignition switch whilst you carry out this inspection.
ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE CUTTER ARM IS IN THE UP POSITION AND CLEAR OF
ANY OBSTACLES BEFORE TRYING TO DRIVE THE MACHINE OR BEFORE SELECTING
THE CUTTER.
HAZARDOUS BRASH.
Some species of trees and bushes are poisonous and can irritate the skin or give respiratory
problems. DO NOT work in confined areas and if in doubt wear a respiratory mask in addition
to the P.P.E already described. Seek professional advice if you are unsure what you are
dealing with.
DUST
If the ground is very dry, a large amount of airborne dust might occur. In this situation a
respiratory mask should be worn.
P.P.E.

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STOPPING.
Always stop the engine and remove the ignition key before making any adjustments, refueling,
or cleaning.
SAFE CUTTER.
Remove ignition key to avoid accidental starting. Ensure cutter wheel has stopped rotating
before undertaking any maintenance or adjustments to the machine.
SPEED.
When being driven, the stump grinder can move and turn with surprising speed.
Be aware of the size, shape and weight of the stump grinder when operating the track control
levers. This is particularly important to bear in mind if you are driving the unit in a public area.
Always operate the track controls carefully and gently.
Be aware that the stump grinder is a powerful machine and moves with considerable force.
LIGHTING
Operate only in daylight or with sufficient lighting

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TRANSPORTING THE MACHINE.
The stump grinder can be transported to site either on a trailer, in a van or on a low bed truck.
MOVING MOUNTED ON A TRAILER.
When manoeuvring by hand always use the jockey wheel. Do not attempt to support the weight
of the draw bar yourself.
If moving the trailer and stump grinder off of the vehicle draw-bar, ensure the hand brake is on
and (if fitted) the rear jack stand is in the down position and the trailer wheels are chocked prior
to attempting to move the stump grinder from the trailer.
If working on a gradient always ensure trailer wheels are adequately chocked. Failure to do so
may result in the over centre brakes de-activating and allowing the trailer to roll. Turn the trailer
to an appropriate position and chock both wheels.
Do not move the trailer with the stump grinder engine running.
LOADING THE MACHINE.
Always perform the machine loading and unloading operation with the low bed truck, van or
trailer parked on a solid and level surface.
Remember to use a purpose designed ramp or a loading platform for loading and unloading
the
stump grinder. The ramp must be strong enough to support the weight of the machine. Make
sure the slope of the ramp is less than 20°.
Before loading the machine be sure to thoroughly clean the ramp and the bed. Ramps or beds
that are dirty with oil, mud or ice are slippery and dangerous.
SLOPES - under 20º
Avoid steering when going up or down the ramps since this can be extremely dangerous. If it
is absolutely necessary to steer, first drive the machine back down to the ground and off the
ramps or back onto the vehicle / trailer bed and then change the direction of travel and start
back up or down the ramp again.
Never operate any control levers except for the drive control levers when going up or down a
ramp. Actuating other levers can cause the machine to become unbalanced and tip over.
The machine will pivot on its tracks with a see-saw type action as it is driven over the point
where the ramp meets the trailer / vehicle bed. Be careful when going over this point. Drive
slowly on ramps.
Always ascend and desend steep slopes with cutter wheel up hill.
It is not reccomended to work on slopes more than 20º
STRAPS & CHAINS
Fasten retention chains, straps or cables to the machine chassis. Do not put chains, straps or
cables over or against hydraulic hoses. Make sure that chains , straps or cables do not cause
damage to rubber tracks.
Fasten each corner of the machine and fasten the front arm to the trailer / vehicle bed with a
chain / strap or a suitable anchor.

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OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.
Ensure that you have read and understood this manual.
Check engine oil level. Top up if necessary.
Check fuel level and ensure fuel is free of contaminents. Do not use fuel from metal
containers unless adequatly filtered.
Check hydraulic oil level.
Visually check around the machine for fuel, oil, & hydraulic oil leaks.
Ensure the engine cover, cutter guard rubbers and rear access cover are in place and
tightened securely.
Inspect the cutter wheel to ensure no foreign objects or dangerous matter are trapped in the
cutters and that the cutter retention bolts are tight and that the cutters are in generally good
condition.
Refer to Multi-Tip notes and ensure bolts are tightened to 55Nm
Ensure that the cutter wheel bolts are fitted and tight.
Ensure that cutter wheel is not touching or is obstructed by anything and that there are no
operators, personnel, members of the public or animals in close proximity to the machine.
Ensure cutter wheel engage switch is in the ‘Off” position and that the safety cover is in
place.
Observe the condition of the terrain / surface under the machine and on which you (the
operator) are standing and make sure that you are confident that you are going to be able to
maintain full control of the machine on this terrain / surface.
STARTING THE ENGINE.
Ensure red emergency stop button is out. Ensure cutter wheel switch is off. Turn ignition key
one position clockwise.
In the case of radio control machines, depress the sync button until an audible click is heard.
Then turn key further to engage starter motor. Once the engine starts, let go of the key to
allow it to spring back into its normal running position. See Engine Manual for further
information.

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USE OF RUBBER TRACKS
Avoid excessive manoeuvring on hard, stony and uneven surfaces such as rock, gravel, etc.
Avoid keeping the rubber tracks in direct sunlight for more than 3 months.
Avoid excessive steering manoeuvres on asphalt and concrete surfaces since these cause
excess pad wear. Avoid driving on asphalt surfaces when their temperature exceeds 60°C
since this causes both excess pad wear and damage to the asphalt surface.
Manoeuvres with a loose track on an irregular surface can cause the pad to detach and /or
damage to the rubber track.
Rubber tracks are designed only for use on soft terrain, not for hard and abrasive surfaces
such as sand, stone, minerals, etc. Use of rubber tracks on these surfaces can cause
premature wear and deformation hence reducing the useful life of the tracks.
Avoid contact between sharp concrete edges etc. and the rubber track.
Fuels or synthetic oils must never come in contact with the rubber track. If this does happen
then they must immediately be cleaned.
Avoid using rubber tracks in marine and seaside environments since saline air or salt in
general corrode adhesion between rubber and metal inner core.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. (If radio control, refer to next section for controls
operation)
Do not use or attempt to start the stump grinder without the cutter guards, engine covers and
access covers securely in place. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or loss of life.
Start the stump grinder following the correct starting procedure. Check that the engine is
running smoothly. If it is not stop and investigate. Once the engine is warm you are ready to
start tracking. Pull the cutter lift lever backwards to ensure that the
cutter arm is at its highest position.
Use the track control levers at the rear of the machine to drive the stump grinder in the
desired direction.
Pushing both track levers forwards at the same time drives the stump grinder forwards.
Pulling both track levers backwards at the same time drives the stump grinder backwards.
Pushing the right track lever only turns the machine to the left.
Pulling the right track lever only turns the machine to the right.
Pushing the left track lever only turns the machine to the right.
Pulling the left track lever only turns the machine to the left.
With practice a combination of these lever movements can be used to gain accurate
proportional driving and steering control.
Position the stump grinder directly in front of the stump with the cutter directly over the front
edge of the stump.
Before starting the stump grinding operation check the area around the base of the tree
stump is clear of any foreign objects such as cloth, string, plastic, glass, rubber, stones,
bricks, metal, or any other materials that could be picked up and ejected by the cutter.

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Use the variable width lever to fully expand the width of the tracks to their outermost position.
Pushing the lever forwards will expand the track base.
TRACK WIDENING
Take care when widening or narrowing the tracks. Obstacles e.g. stumps, walls etc, could
cause unnecessary wear to the rubber tracks and its mechanism and could also cause a
track to come off. Also take care that no people or obstacles may be caught between the
tracks and the machine or between the tracks and other obstacles.
Make sure the control panel is fully open and locked in position so the control panel cannot
move.
Use the cutter lift / lower lever to lower the cutter down until it is just below the level of the top
edge of the tree stump ready for the first cut. ensure that the cutter wheel is to the side of,
and clear of, the stump.
Pulling the lever backwards will raise the cutter.
Pushing the lever forwards will lower the cutter.
The possible depth of cut will vary based on the type of tree stump and its condition. I
ie. hardwood or softwood, wet or dry, fresh cut or old and decayed. It is recommended that
the first cut is considered a test cut and as such the depth of this cut should be kept to a
minimum, i.e less than 25mm (less than 1”). Based on the performance of the first cut the
depth of the next cut can be increased or reduced. Maximum depth of cut is 460mm See
Figure 1 on page 16 for the start position.
1. Control panel latch
2. Safety key holder
3. Safety key strap
4. Left track lever
5. Right track lever
6. Lift lower lever
7. Variable width lever
8. Slew lever
9. Control panel
10. Fuel filler cap
11. Ignition key
12. Cutter engage switch
13. Emergency stop switch
14. Throttle lever
Use the cutter slew lever to slew the cutter to the left
or the right so that it is clear of, and to the side of, the
stump.
Pushing the lever forwards will slew the cutter to the
left.
Pulling the lever backwards will slew the cutter to
the right.

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Make sure the control panel is locked in place. All guards and screens fitted to the machine
must be in place and intact. Further guards might be required to protect third party property.
Position yourself near the machine at the main control panel and atatch the safety strap as
shown making sure the key is plugged into the holder. Safety helmet, visor and ear
defenders must be worn along with steel toe cap boots, heavy full length trousers and
gloves. When the cord is pulled out accidentally or deliberately the cutter wheel will stop.
Use guards to protect property, vehicles and people from flying debris.
Turn the cutter selection button clockwise one step. The cutter wheel will start rotating. Use
the manual lever to increase the engine revs
Use the cutter slew lever to carefully and slowly slew the cutter across the front of the tree
stump taking the first cut. If the machine becomes excessively noisy or an excess of vibration
or obvious resistance to cutting is experienced stop cutting immediately and back the cutter
away from the tree stump. Turn off the engine and investigate the cause.
The slew speed of the cutter can be adjusted by turning the slew speed control knob.
Turning the knob clockwise will reduce slew speed.
Turning the knob counter clockwise will increase slew speed.
After completion of the first cut, i.e when the cutter
has passed completely across the tree stump and is clear of the opposite side of the stump,
the arm can be lowered a little by pushing the lift/lower lever forward. The machine is now
ready for the return cut in the opposite direction.
Repeat this until the desired depth is achieved. Then lift the arm to a height above the stump,
inch forward using the track levers and start the whole process again.
Move machine away from stump with cutter wheel out of gear
1. Control panel latch
2. Safety key holder
3. Safety key strap
4. Left track lever
5. Right track lever
6. Lift lower lever
7. Variable width lever
8. Slew lever
9. Control panel
10. Fuel filler cap
11. Ignition key
12. Cutter engage switch
13. Emergency stop switch
14. Throttle lever
15. Lifting Eye
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Careful attention should be paid when cutting at ground level to avoid the cutter making
contact with large stones or solid objects that may be unearthed by the grinding process.
When such objects are identified the cutting /grinding process should be stopped, the
machine switched off with the ignition key removed and the objects removed from the cutting
area before the cutting / grinding process is restarted.
To stop the cutter wheel rotating reduce the engine speed and turn the cutter selection
switch counter clockwise.
EMERGENCY STOPPING
Push the RED STOP button. Turn off ignition key.
To release the emergency stop button, twist counter clockwise.
BLOCKAGES.
It is possible that foreign matter such as hard soil, clay, stones or pieces of timber may
become trapped between the cutter wheel and its cowl either slowing or stopping the cutter.
This will be accompanied by the engine starting to labour and excessive noise from the
hydraulic system. If this happens proceed as follows:
Stop the cutter wheel by turning the cutter selection switch.
Stop the engine, remove ignition keys. Ensure cutter wheel has stopped turning.
Carefully try to rotate the cutter wheel backwards by hand to release the trapped object.
Remove any objects trapped between the cutting teeth and /or trapped inside the cutter cowl.
Thoroughly inspect the cutter wheel and make sure that there is no damage to any of the
cutting teeth and that all cutting teeth retention bolts are tight and secure. Replace any
damaged cutting teeth.
Restart engine and proceed carefully with grinding operation.
Use only the lower
front part of the wheel
to cut the stump
Position the machine at
the front of the stump
and remove material to
the depth required before
moving forward.

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4. Cutter switch with safety cover
5. Micro speed selection switch
6. Green LED
7. Emergency stop
8. Red LED
9. On/Signal/Freq shift Sync
10. DANGER
11. Arm lift / lower lever
12. Left track forward / back
14. Variable width
15. Right track forward / back
16. Slew left right
Levers (11, 12, 14, 15, 16) are all proportional and operate in the same way as described earlier in
the manual.
Radio Control (option)
Unauthorized tampering with the radio control system automatically invalidates warranty
The radio control unit is highly sophisticated and offers fine control to the movements of the machine.
Fine tuning of the controls can be made only by a qualified technician or under his instruction.
The manoeuvre levers give fully proportional operation and are sprung loaded to return to zero posi-
tion, i.e. "dead-man's-handle". When the manoeuvre levers are moved from zero position the respec-
tive hydraulic function starts to operate slowly and increases in speed as the lever is moved further
from zero position and vice versa as the lever is moved back towards zero position.
For safety reasons all manoeuvre levers must be in their zero/neutral positions for a start-up to be
made. If any lever is not in its zero/neutral position during start-up, the control unit will blink and beep
the same number of times as the number of the lever to indicate which manoeuvre lever is faulty. The
control unit can be used but the faulty lever will be locked and disengaged. (eg. if it beeps and blinks
five times, it is the 5th lever from the LEFT which is faulty or giving the problem signal).
The micro speed button (5) slows down all the movements. This return sprung switch can be used to
reduce the operating speed.
With impulses from the sprung loaded toggle switch to the left, towards ON ( tortoise), reduces
speed. Movement of the switch to the right, towards OFF (hare), will produce 100% movement once
again. Green LED : Flashing - speed reduction. Not flashing - normal speed .
The large red emergency stop button (7) turns off the radio control unit when pushed in. It also stops
the cutter wheel. IT DOES NOT STOP THE ENGINE ON THE MACHINE. The main emergency stop
switch is located on the machine. Twist the switch (7) clockwise until it springs out, then push the On
button (9) to turn the unit on. The red LED light (8)will show that the unit is on.
Switch (4) is the cutter selection switch. This
must be in the off position to start the machine.

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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Place a newly charged battery in the radio control unit.
Start the grinder at the main ignition on the machine.
Twist out the emergency stop switch on the radio control unit.
Switch (4) is the cutter selection switch. This must be in the off position.
Press ON/SIGNAL/FREQ.-SHIFT (9), and the red LED will light continuously.
The grinder is now ready for operation.
The operator must be aware of all manoeuvre lever and switch functions before operation is started.
The emergency stop on the control unit stops all operations from the unit.
The emergency stop on the machine is the main emergency stop switch which also stops the engine.
The switch (2) on the control unit stops the engine but the control unit must be on and in signal.
The emergency stop on the control unit should always be in the depressed position whenever the unit
is not in use. This applies even for short stoppages, for example, if the operator wishes to move.
Stand at least 3 metres from the machine. With the cutter wheel of the machine is at position
12 on a clock in plan view, the best position to stand is either 10 or 2.
Make sure nobody else is within 20 metres of the machine.
Wear all PPE as described earlier in the manual.
Only engage wheel when it is safe to do so.
Follow operating instruction set out earlier in this manual for grinding.
When finished switch off cutter wheel with button (4) and then switch off engine with button (2). Then
Control Cabinet
Open the control cabinet/cowl door to access the lever control, radio receiver and battery charger.
On the right hand side of the receiver is a switch, plug socket and some LED lights.
The switch should remain in the radio control position at all time, which is towards the door.
The plug (2) is for attachment of the cable for operation if the radio controls fail. It is also used for set-
ting up the controls for fine adjustment.
The battery charger charges the spare battery whilst the machine is running.
1. Spare battery and charger.
2. Radio control on switch.
3. Plug for cable use
4. Manual lift lower lever
5. Manual slew lever left/right
6. Manual variable width lever
7. Manual left track forward/back
8. Manual right track forward/back
9. Cutter engage/disengage switch for use during man-
ual operation. Must be disengaged to start machine.
It is highly recommended that use of the manual controls is
only as a last resort to finish a job if the remote controls
packs up and the controls with the use of the cord also fails.
BATTERY CHARGER AND BATTERY CHARGING.
There are two chargers available with the machine. One is located inside the control cabinet. The oth-
er option is 240V. The battery pack is rechargeable and of Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) type.
The normal charging time for an empty uncharged battery, is approximately 5 - 8 hours.
The battery charger is constructed so that no damage will occur from long continuous charging.
The batteries effective operation time is about 8 hours on one charge.
When the battery is approaching time for charging, the machine will cut out and will need to be
changed. If the battery capacity is too LOW the control unit cannot be activated.
In order to reduce battery loading and for safety reasons, the control unit is turned off automatically,
after the unit has been idle for more than approximately five minutes.

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MAINTENANCE.
Always immobilise engine, let engine cool down and remove ignition keys before undertaking
any maintenance work on the machine.
VIBRATION
Stump grinders are machines that are subject to vibration. Be aware that vibration can work
nuts and bolts loose. Check periodically all fixings for security.
PARTS
Only fit genuine MultiTip cutters and retaining bolts.
Only fit genuine engine spares.
Only fit genuine Predator stump grinder spares. Failure to do so will result in the invalidation
of the warranty and may result in damage to the grinder, personal injury or even loss of life.
SAFETY
When maintaining your engine refer to the appropriate COSHH sheets from your suppliers.
GENERAL CLEANING.
Keep the stump grinder and engine clear from excessive dust, wood chippings and debris
build up especially around the fuel filler cap, hydraulic oil tank fillers, engine bay and battery
area. Cleaning should be done with a stiff brush or cloth. DO NOT USE steam cleaners,
SERVICE SCHEDULE.
DAILY CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
Check engine oil - Top up if necessary.
Refer to MSDS sheets from your oil supplier
and engine manual.
Check hydraulic oil level. - When the stump
grinder is on level ground the oil should show
near the bottom of the gauge.
Check for engine oil / hydraulic oil leaks.
Check fuel level:
To avoid condensation build up in fuel tank, keep
tank full.
Check access covers and guards are securely
fitted.
Check and adjust if necessary belt tightness.