Prinoth BISON Operating instructions

41237353 | REV01
Operating and maintenance
manual for the
BISON
BISON X
snow groomer
Vehicle numbers
908930245 to 908930367

Imprint
PRINOTH Ltd.
1001, J.-A. Bombardier Street
Granby, Quebec, Canada
J2J 1E9
™ and ® are trademarks of PRINOTH Ltd. or its affiliated companies used under license.
© 2018 PRINOTH Ltd. All rights reserved. In the USA, the products are distributed by PRINOTH LLC.
No parts of this manual may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of PRI-
NOTH Ltd.
This manual may be translated into another language. In the event of any discrepancy, the English
version shall prevail.
Important notes about this manual
Keep this manual in the cab of the vehicle as a handy reference for the safe and productive use of the
BISON. Should you re-sell the vehicle, leave this manual with it for the next owner.
This manual is filled with important safety information - read and understand the content as well as all
safety stickers installed on the vehicle.
All products and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective
holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
To re-order this manual, please contact the Parts department:
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.prinoth.com
Original instructions - printed in Canada
Operating and Maintenance Manual Snow groomer BISON
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Table Of Contents
1 Table Of Contents......................................................................................................................5
2 Notes about the documentation.............................................................................................11
2.1 Preface...................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 General......................................................................................................................11
2.3 Explanatory notes about the safety instructions..................................................12
2.4 Pictograms and what they stand for...................................................................... 14
2.4.1 Mandatory signs.........................................................................................................14
2.4.2 Warning signs............................................................................................................ 15
2.4.3 Prohibition signs.........................................................................................................16
2.4.4 Warnings....................................................................................................................17
3 Safety........................................................................................................................................19
3.1 General information.................................................................................................19
3.2 Manufacturer's recommended use.........................................................................19
3.3 Qualification of the personnel................................................................................ 20
3.4 Important notes........................................................................................................21
3.4.1 Before using the vehicle.............................................................................................21
3.4.2 When using the snow groomer.................................................................................. 21
3.4.3 Permissible inclination angle......................................................................................23
3.4.4 Towing the snow groomer..........................................................................................23
3.4.5 When maintaining the vehicle.................................................................................... 23
3.5 Safety equipment in the vehicle............................................................................. 24
3.6 Pictograms and safety instructions on the vehicle.............................................. 26
3.6.1 Snow groomer............................................................................................................26
3.6.2 Attachments............................................................................................................... 27
3.7 Danger Zones........................................................................................................... 28
4 Transport..................................................................................................................................33
4.1 Weights and lifting points....................................................................................... 33
4.2 Securing and transport............................................................................................35
5 Vehicle......................................................................................................................................37
5.1 Identification data for the snow groomer and attachments.................................37
5.2 Vehicle concept........................................................................................................37
5.2.1 Tilting the driver's cab................................................................................................ 40
5.2.2 Lowering the driver's cab........................................................................................... 41
5.2.3 Tilting the rear cover.................................................................................................. 43
5.3 Driver seat.................................................................................................................44
5.3.1 Adjusting the driver seat.............................................................................................45
5.3.2 Slide function (optional)..............................................................................................45
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1

5.4 Passenger seat.........................................................................................................48
5.5 Cabin roof................................................................................................................. 49
5.6 Open and close the glass sunroof......................................................................... 49
5.7 Using the spotlight...................................................................................................50
5.8 Steering console...................................................................................................... 50
5.8.1 Adjusting the steering console................................................................................... 50
5.9 Control console........................................................................................................52
5.9.1 Adjusting the control console..................................................................................... 55
5.9.2 Keyboard 1.................................................................................................................56
5.9.3 Keyboard 2.................................................................................................................59
5.9.4 Joystick...................................................................................................................... 60
5.9.5 Joystick operation...................................................................................................... 60
5.9.6 Adjusting the outside mirror....................................................................................... 64
5.9.7 Window and outside mirror heating............................................................................65
5.9.8 Windscreen wiper heating..........................................................................................65
5.10 Driver's cab heating and ventilation.......................................................................65
5.10.1 Controlling the driver's cab heating and ventilation....................................................66
5.10.2 Activating the defrost function.................................................................................... 66
5.11 Fuses and relays......................................................................................................66
5.11.1 Fuses and relays in the driver's cab...........................................................................66
5.11.2 Fuses and relays in the accessory support................................................................69
5.12 Control units.............................................................................................................71
5.13 Battery disconnect switch.......................................................................................72
5.14 Battery emergency switch.......................................................................................73
5.15 Vehicle lighting.........................................................................................................73
5.16 Warning and signaling equipment......................................................................... 73
5.17 Switching the air filter..............................................................................................74
6 Display......................................................................................................................................75
6.1 Display description..................................................................................................75
6.2 Adjusting the display backlight..............................................................................75
6.3 Navigating in the menu............................................................................................76
6.4 Indicators and controls on the display.................................................................. 77
6.5 Menu structure......................................................................................................... 82
6.5.1 Menu level "Information"............................................................................................ 83
6.5.2 Menu level "Service".................................................................................................. 87
6.5.3 Menu level "Operation".............................................................................................. 93
6.5.4 Menu level "Password level 1"................................................................................... 97
6.5.5 Software messages..................................................................................................104
6.5.6 Inactivity alarm......................................................................................................... 104
7 Daily checks...........................................................................................................................106
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7.1 Checking the snow groomer and attachments for irregularities.......................106
7.2 Check fluid levels...................................................................................................107
7.2.1 Engine coolant level................................................................................................. 107
7.2.2 Engine oil level......................................................................................................... 108
7.2.3 Hydraulic oil level..................................................................................................... 108
7.2.4 Pump drive oil level.................................................................................................. 109
7.2.5 Primary fuel filter/ water separator........................................................................... 110
8 Driving.................................................................................................................................... 111
8.1 Before startup.........................................................................................................111
8.2 Preheating system................................................................................................. 112
8.2.1 Pre-heating...............................................................................................................112
8.3 Parking brake......................................................................................................... 113
8.4 Starting the engine.................................................................................................113
8.5 Shutting down the engine..................................................................................... 115
8.6 Establish snow groomer standby.........................................................................116
8.7 Driving with steering levers.................................................................................. 116
8.7.1 Steering lever operation........................................................................................... 117
8.8 Driving with the engine speed potentiometer..................................................... 118
8.9 Controlling front attachments...............................................................................119
8.10 Controlling rear attachments................................................................................120
9 Attachments...........................................................................................................................122
9.1 Establish operational readiness of the attachments..........................................122
9.2 Front blade..............................................................................................................122
9.2.1 Adjusting the park pusher frame.............................................................................. 122
9.2.2 Mounting the front blade.......................................................................................... 123
9.2.3 Installing and stowing the side cutters..................................................................... 125
9.3 Rear tiller.................................................................................................................126
9.3.1 Mounting the POSIFLEX tiller.................................................................................. 126
9.3.2 Mounting the POWER tiller with an adaptor.............................................................127
9.3.3 Connect hydraulic lines............................................................................................ 129
9.4 Tracks......................................................................................................................130
9.4.1 Mounting the tracks..................................................................................................130
9.4.2 Tension and loosen the tracks................................................................................. 132
10 Engine system....................................................................................................................... 134
10.1 Proper use.............................................................................................................. 134
10.2 Engine operation....................................................................................................134
10.3 Engine warning labels........................................................................................... 135
10.4 Description of engine warning labels.................................................................. 136
10.5 Overview................................................................................................................. 137
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10.6 Aftertreatment and PETU...................................................................................... 139
10.7 Engine identification plates.................................................................................. 140
10.8 PETU and Aftertreatment identification plates....................................................140
10.9 Operating fluids......................................................................................................141
10.9.1 Diesel fuels...............................................................................................................142
10.9.2 AdBlue® / DEF.........................................................................................................143
10.9.3 Engine oils................................................................................................................145
10.9.4 Coolant.....................................................................................................................146
10.10 Engine monitoring system....................................................................................148
11 Maintenance...........................................................................................................................149
11.1 Introduction............................................................................................................ 149
11.2 Safety instructions.................................................................................................151
11.3 Prescribed maintenance work.............................................................................. 153
11.4 Removing a lateral cowling access panel........................................................... 154
11.5 Verification of the cab locking pins......................................................................155
11.6 Lubrication points..................................................................................................155
11.7 Operating fluids......................................................................................................160
11.8 Regeneration.......................................................................................................... 160
11.9 Maintenance plan...................................................................................................162
11.10 Engine maintenance.............................................................................................. 166
11.10.1 Important notes........................................................................................................ 166
11.10.2 Handling used engine oil..........................................................................................168
11.10.3 Engine oil and filter replacement..............................................................................168
11.10.4 Checking the engine oil level................................................................................... 169
11.10.5 Replacing the engine air filter...................................................................................170
11.10.6 Clean the engine......................................................................................................170
11.11 Battery.....................................................................................................................172
11.11.1 Safety instructions....................................................................................................172
11.11.2 Transport, store and maintain the batteries............................................................. 173
11.11.3 Clean the battery......................................................................................................174
11.11.4 Removing battery..................................................................................................... 174
11.11.5 Installing battery.......................................................................................................174
11.11.6 Charging battery.......................................................................................................175
11.11.7 Jump start................................................................................................................ 175
11.11.8 Jump start using the boost lugs............................................................................... 177
11.12 Cooling system...................................................................................................... 177
11.12.1 Checking the coolant level....................................................................................... 177
11.12.2 Replacing the coolant...............................................................................................177
11.12.3 Draining the coolant................................................................................................. 178
11.12.4 Flushing the cooling system.....................................................................................179
11.12.5 Filling coolant........................................................................................................... 180
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11.12.6 Cleaning cooling systems........................................................................................ 180
11.13 Fuel system............................................................................................................ 181
11.13.1 Checking the water separator.................................................................................. 181
11.13.2 Replacing the primary fuel filter................................................................................181
11.13.3 Replacing the secondary fuel filters......................................................................... 182
11.13.4 Priming the fuel system............................................................................................184
11.14 Wheels.....................................................................................................................185
11.14.1 Check tension wheels, running wheels and sprocket wheels.................................. 185
11.14.2 Checking the track guide..........................................................................................186
11.15 Tracks......................................................................................................................186
11.15.1 Torque values for steel track fasteners.................................................................... 186
11.16 Hydraulic components.......................................................................................... 187
11.16.1 Checking the oil level of the tilting mechanism........................................................ 187
11.16.2 Replacing the planetary gearbox oil.........................................................................188
11.16.3 Replacing the oil and filters of the hydraulic tank.....................................................189
11.16.4 Checking the hydraulic oil level................................................................................189
11.16.5 Hydraulic oil change.................................................................................................189
11.16.6 Maintaining the hydraulic hoses...............................................................................190
11.17 Replacing halogen lamps......................................................................................191
11.18 Arc welding.............................................................................................................192
12 Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................... 193
12.1 Malfunction, cause, and remedy...........................................................................193
12.2 General troubleshooting....................................................................................... 193
12.3 Electrical fuses.......................................................................................................196
13 Technical data....................................................................................................................... 197
13.1 Vehicle dimensions................................................................................................197
13.2 Vehicle data............................................................................................................ 197
14 Storing and taking the vehicle out of service.....................................................................199
14.1 Taking the engine out of service.......................................................................... 199
14.2 Disposal of operating fluids..................................................................................200
15 AUTOMATIC Winch............................................................................................................... 203
15.1 General Information...............................................................................................203
15.2 Pictograms and what they stand for.................................................................... 203
15.3 Safety...................................................................................................................... 203
15.3.1 Safety instructions....................................................................................................203
15.3.2 Manufacturer's recommended use...........................................................................204
15.3.3 Pictograms and safety instructions on the AUTOMATIC winch............................... 205
15.3.4 Description of danger zones during use of the AUTOMATIC winch........................ 206
15.3.5 Cable and operating instructions..............................................................................207
15.3.6 Precautions for operating the AUTOMATIC winch...................................................209
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15.4 Transport................................................................................................................ 210
15.4.1 Weights and lifting points......................................................................................... 210
15.4.2 Anchoring points...................................................................................................... 210
15.5 Winch...................................................................................................................... 210
15.5.1 Specifications........................................................................................................... 210
15.5.2 AUTOMATIC winch concept.................................................................................... 211
15.5.3 Tilt and lower the AUTOMATIC winch..................................................................... 212
15.5.4 Tilt and straighten the winch arm............................................................................. 216
15.6 Mounting.................................................................................................................218
15.6.1 Easy mounting and removal.....................................................................................219
15.6.2 Mounting the winch.................................................................................................. 220
15.6.3 Removing the winch.................................................................................................222
15.6.4 Storing the winch......................................................................................................223
15.6.5 Checking the cable...................................................................................................224
15.7 Operation................................................................................................................ 224
15.7.1 Indicators and controls on the display......................................................................224
15.7.2 Keyboard 2...............................................................................................................226
15.7.3 Operation of the AUTOMATIC winch....................................................................... 227
15.7.4 ROLL OUT remote control (optional)....................................................................... 228
15.7.5 Operating the ROLL OUT remote control ............................................................... 229
15.7.6 Winding the cable with the ROLL OUT remote control............................................ 230
15.7.7 Rewind the last few meters of cable........................................................................ 230
15.7.8 Winch operation....................................................................................................... 231
15.7.9 During winch operation............................................................................................ 232
15.7.10 Electronic traction control.........................................................................................233
15.7.11 Using the AUTOMATIC winch when ascending or descending slopes....................234
15.8 Maintenance........................................................................................................... 235
15.8.1 General maintenance instructions............................................................................235
15.8.2 Checking the winch.................................................................................................. 236
15.8.3 AUTOMATIC winch maintenance schedule.............................................................236
15.8.4 Operating fluids........................................................................................................238
15.8.5 Lubrication points.....................................................................................................238
15.8.6 Checking the cable...................................................................................................239
15.8.7 Check the cable guide rollers...................................................................................241
15.8.8 Replacing the cable..................................................................................................242
15.8.9 Check oil level of winch gear....................................................................................242
15.8.10 Change the winch gear oil........................................................................................244
15.8.11 Check the carrier......................................................................................................246
15.8.12 Installing an anchoring hook.................................................................................... 246
15.9 Technical data AUTOMATIC winch...................................................................... 248
15.10 Taking the winch out of operation for longer period..........................................249
16 List of Abbreviations.............................................................................................................250
17 Index....................................................................................................................................... 251
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Notes about the documentation
Preface
To the reader
These operating and maintenance instructions will help you get to know and appreciate the perform-
ance and quality of your snow groomer.
Proper use of the snow groomer and conscientious maintenance are essential to ensure operational
availability.
A hardcover copy of these operating and maintenance instructions is supplied with each snow groom-
er and must always be kept close at hand in the driver's cab behind the driver's seat. It should be con-
sidered an essential part of the snow groomer and its safety equipment.
These operating and maintenance instructions must be read carefully and all technical details under-
stood.
To keep your snow groomer always in serviceable condition, make sure that the necessary mainte-
nance work is carried out regularly at the specified intervals. The servicing dates and intervals as well
as the maintenance instructions as specified by PRINOTH apply. The warranty obligation is immedi-
ately void in the case of damage to or removal of the lead seals on hydraulic valves and control units!
All warranty obligations lapse in the following cases:
■ Failure to carry out the specified maintenance work
■ Missing completed check sheets
■ Damage or faults due to servicing work and/or settings not authorised by PRINOTH
■ Installation of non-approved components or use of third party spare parts
Please note that regular inspection and maintenance work can prevent unexpected and unnecessary
downtime.
Report any problems with the snow groomer or its attachments to Prinoth approved repair and mainte-
nance personnel. If there is a possibility of consequential damage, the snow groomer must be taken
out of service until the fault has been corrected.
The technical details for this snow groomer were up to date as of these operating and maintenance
instructions' copy date. As part of our ongoing development programme, we reserve the right to make
technical changes to our products. PRINOTH will endeavour to always keep the information in these
operating and maintenance instructions up to date.
By following these instructions, you will ensure that your snow groomer has a long service life and re-
mains in proper working condition.
PRINOTH
General
When operating a snow groomer, hazards can occur due to the vehicle itself and to the working envi-
ronment, e.g., vehicle movements, operation of attachments, terrain formations, weather conditions,
and risks of avalanche.
These operating and maintenance instructions advise about possible risks and provide guidelines that
will help prevent injury and damage to property.
These hazards can be minimized by correct and level-headed action on the part of operating per-
sonnel.
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2
2.1
■
2.2

In order to avoid damage, it is essential to read and understand the operating and maintenance
instructions before operating the snow groomer.
Ensure that the snow groomer is in perfect technical condition. This provides the best conditions
for avoiding accidents.
The operating and maintenance instructions are indispensable for the professional operation of
the snow groomer and the attachments and should be close at hand in the driver's cab at all
times.
Explanatory notes about the safety instructions
The safety instructions in this operating and maintenance manual are structured as follows:
Meaning of the signal words
DANGER
Signal word "DANGER"
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
►All safety instructions with the signal word "DANGER" are followed by respective safety meas-
ures.
WARNING
Signal word "WARNING"
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
►All safety instructions with the signal word "WARNING" are followed by respective safety meas-
ures.
CAUTION
Signal word "CAUTION"
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
►All safety instructions with the signal word "CAUTION" are followed by respective safety meas-
ures.
NOTICE
Signal word "NOTICE"
Refers to additional information and dangers that do not relate to personnel injury (e.g. information
relating to property damage)
► All safety instructions with the signal word "NOTICE" are followed by respective safety meas-
ures.
Example for safety instructions
Example 1: CAUTION
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2.3
■
■

CAUTION
Description of the danger
Description of possible consequences
►1. Safety measures for avoiding the danger
► 2. Safety measures for avoiding the danger
► 3. Safety measures for avoiding the danger
CAUTION
Risk of scalding
Since the cooling system is pressurised, hot coolant can spray out when the cooling system is
opened and scald skin and eyes.
► Only open the cooling system when the coolant temperature is below 40 °C.
► Slowly unscrew the cap and release the pressure before opening completely.
► Wear suitable protective gloves, clothing and safety glasses when handling coolants.
Example 2: NOTE
NOTICE
► 1. Information or safety measures
►2. Information or safety measures
NOTICE
► Check the first-aid kit's use-by date regularly and replace the contents as required.
►Replace used dressing material immediately.
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Pictograms and what they stand for
The pictograms on the snow groomer and attachments must always be kept in an undamaged condi-
tion and must remain clearly visible. Damaged pictograms must be replaced immediately. Pictograms
can be obtained from PRINOTH agents and branch offices.
Familiarise yourself with the pictograms and what they stand for before operating the snow groomer
and attachments.
In doing so, there are three different types of pictograms:
■ Mandatory signs
■ Warning signs
■ Prohibition signs
WARNING
Risk of accident and injury
The pictograms on the snow groomer and attachments indicate possible hazards. Ignoring these pic-
tograms can lead to serious or life-threatening injuries.
► The pictograms must be kept in an undamaged condition and must remain clearly visible.
► Replace damaged pictograms immediately.
Mandatory signs
Meaning Symbol
Wear foot protection
Wear protective gloves
Wear eye protection
Wear safety belts
Wear ear protection
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2.4
2.4.1

Warning signs
EU standard ISO 3864
(black-yellow)
US standard ANSI Z.535
(black-white)
Indication of an immediate or potential
risk
Indication of a risk of burning on hot sur-
faces, components or fluids
Indication of a risk of falling
Indication of a risk of crushing
Indication of a risk of severing injuries
Indication of a risk of splintering
Indication of a risk of crushing or sever-
ing limbs due to rotating parts
Indication of a risk of collision: wear safe-
ty belt
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2.4.2

Prohibition signs
Meaning Symbol
Prohibits certain actions or behavior
The removal of safety devices is prohibited!
Transporting persons is prohibited (except for the parts of the vehicle that are
expressly intended for passenger transport)!
Fire, open flame and smoking are prohibited!
Forbidden for persons wearing heart pacemakers
Hoisting by crane forbidden!
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2.4.3

Warnings
Meaning Note
General safety alert
■ In order to avoid injury, it is essential to read and under-
stand the operating and maintenance manual before
putting the snow groomer and attachments into opera-
tion.
Risk of rolling away
■ Never leave the vehicle unattended without applying
the brakes and lowering the attachments to the ground.
■ Consult operating and maintenance manual for further
safety instructions.
Risk of collision
■The brakes are automatically activated if the cab door is
opened.
■ Consult operating and maintenance manual for further
safety instructions.
Risk of scalding
■Hot surface, content under pressure.
■ Do not touch surface.
■ Do not open container.
■ Allow coolant to cool down before carrying out mainte-
nance work.
Risk of falling, risk of crushing and cutting
■ When transporting persons on the loading platform,
there is a risk of falling and being crushed or cut.
Fire hazard
■ When handling inflammable fuels and operating fluids,
there is a risk of fire.
■ Do not smoke.
■ Do not refuel while the engine is running or warm.
■ Avoid direct contact with fuel.
Risk of cutting injuries
■Rotating parts can cause serious injuries.
■ Do not operate if safety devices are missing.
Risk of collision
■ The snow groomer could come to an abrupt halt or run
down a steep slope.
■ Wear safety belt.
Risk of severing injuries
■Moving parts can cause serious injuries.
■ While the engine is running, keep at a safe distance
from front and rear attachments.
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2.4.4

Meaning Note
Crush hazard
■ There is a risk of crushing when working under the driv-
er's cab.
■ Secure the safety bar before working under the driver's
cab.
Risk of projectiles
■Rotating parts can throw off projectiles.
■ Do not operate if safety devices are missing.
Risk of damage to electrical and hydraulic systems
■ Electric cables and hydraulic lines running here can be
damaged.
■ Exercise caution when removing ice and snow.
Risk of cutting injuries and getting trapped
■Rotating parts can cause serious injuries.
■ Keep loose-fitting clothing, hand and other body parts
away from rotating parts.
Risk of scalding
■Hot fluids can cause scalding.
■ Do not touch.
■ Allow for cool-down before carrying out maintenance
work.
Risk of break-in
■The snow groomer is a very heavy vehicle.
■ Do not drive on frozen waterways or lakes.
■ Failure to observe this regulation will lead to a risk of
material damage as well as serious physical injury, and
in the worst cases, death.
Risk of crushing
■ The belly pan is heavy and holds one of the fuel tanks.
Install a support for the belly pan before removing the
bolts.
■ Failure to observe this precaution could cause injuries.
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Safety
General information
When operating the snow groomer and its attachments, follow all the operating instructions and safety
regulations set out by the manufacturer in the operating and maintenance instructions.
In addition to the operating instructions, follow the general legal accident prevention and environmen-
tal protection regulations applying in the country concerned. This also applies to the provision and
wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE).
The operating and maintenance instructions must remain available for the whole service life of the
snow groomer for driver and service personnel reference.
Maintaining an additional vehicle log will help you keep track of the required inspection and mainte-
nance work. This will ensure that the snow groomer is constantly in proper working condition and has
a long service life.
Original spare parts and special accessories have been produced for the BISON snow groomer. The
components of the snow groomer are tested to ensure the reliability, operational safety and functional
reliability of the vehicle.
We would like to emphasize that spare parts and accessories not supplied by PRINOTH have also not
been tested nor approved by us. The installation or use of such products can therefore, under certain
circumstances, have a negative affect on the basic characteristics of the vehicle. This can adversely
affect the snow groomer's operational safety and reliability. Warranty claims will only be accepted if
the manufacturer's original spare parts and accessories are used exclusively.
NOTICE
Ensure for the correct operation of the snow groomer
►Operating and maintenance instructions are to be kept in the driver's cab at all times. There is a
holder behind the driver seat intended for these.
Manufacturer's recommended use
The following country-specific regulations apply for using the snow groomer and its attachments on ski
slopes. The snow groomer is designed mainly for preparing and maintaining ski slopes, and for clear-
ing snow from access roads and connecting paths to the lifts. It is designed for autonomous operation.
The snow groomer and attachments embody the latest technological developments and they are built
in accordance with the applicable safety regulations.
In brief, the vehicle has been designed for the following tasks:
■ Moving and leveling snow using its front blade, ploughing and / or cutting snow
■ Preparation of cross-country trails
■ Transportation of loads of a total weight of up to 1000 kg (2204 lb) on the loading platform, if
equipped
■ Carrying loads on a carrier mounted on the front blade, with a max. payload of 1000 kg (2204 lb);
in this case, the driving method must be adapted to prevent the load from falling off
■ Carrying two passengers in the driver's cabin, in addition to the driver
■ Operation in ambient temperatures between -30 °C (-22 °F) and +25 °C (+77 °F)
■ Operation at an altitude of up to max. 4000 m (13123 ft) above sea level
Using an anchoring hook attached to the front blade or the rear of the snow groomer, a trailer or sled
with a maximum total weight of 2000 kg (4409 lb) can be towed.
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3
3.1
3.2

The snow groomer and its attachments can pose a danger to the operating personnel or others. Only
qualified personnel authorized by the operator may be assigned to drive and operate snow groomers.
The BISON snow groomer is not approved for use in road traffic. When driving on snow-free roads,
the driving style must be adapted in order to prevent damage to the vehicle and the roads.
Snow groomers must only be operated in accordance with the operating and maintenance instruc-
tions. Any use of the snow groomer other than described here requires written consent from the manu-
facturer.
Figure 1: Loading platform position
Pos. Name
L Loading plaform
Qualification of the personnel
Driver
Only qualified personnel authorized by the operator may be assigned to drive and operate snow
groomers.
Drivers must meet the following requirements and provide proof of meeting them:
■ Be at least 18 years of age
■ Possession of a driver's licence valid for motor vehicles or proof of qualification to drive a snow
groomer by courtesy of the operator.
■ Physical and mental fitness to perform the tasks assigned
■ Received training on snow groomers and ability to provide the employer with documentation of
their qualification to drive snow groomers
■ Knowledge of the characteristic properties of snow, the causes and devastating effects of ava-
lanches and, in particular, proper behavior when there is a risk of avalanche
To optimize operating safety, the driver must be familiar with the snow groomer, the ski slope condi-
tions and the current snow conditions:
■ Behavior of the snow groomer in different snow conditions
■ Knowledge of the area of operation, particularly with regard to specific risks of accident (e.g., rock
slide, risk of avalanche, areas prone to crashes)
The driver must also ensure that he has access to a communication system (radio receiver, mobile
telephone) that provides a permanent connection to the outside world in order to be in a position to
receive information about imminent risks or to summon immediate first aid and deal with unexpected
events.
The driver must always be in charge of the vehicle key, and the key must not be copied without their
consent.
Technicians and service personnel
Installation and maintenance work requires the use of in-house service personnel or of service person-
nel trained by the manufacturer.
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3.3
■
■

Service personnel and persons assisting who enter the danger area around the snow groomer must
meet the following requirements:
■Be at least 14 years of age
■ Physical and mental fitness to perform the tasks assigned to them
Technical interventions, such as troubleshooting, diagnosis and repair work (these subjects are not
covered by the operating and maintenance instructions) on mechanical, hydraulic and electrical / elec-
tronic components must only be undertaken by specialized personnel trained by PRINOTH.
The person responsible for the snow groomer must ensure that only authorized specialized personnel
use the snow groomer. Service personnel must be familiar with the dangers and apply the safest
methods.
The snow groomer including accessories must only be scrapped at an authorized and specialized
scrap yard. The snow groomer and accessories must be disposed of in accordance with the relevant
legal regulations.
Important notes
Before using the vehicle
Before starting and driving the snow groomer, the driver must make sure that all the components rele-
vant for safe operation are functioning correctly.
The following guidelines must be observed:
Clear snow and ice from the snow groomer.
Make sure all safety devices are in proper working condition.
Check the lighting system and warning devices.
Check fluid levels (e.g., engine oil, coolant).
On vehicles with pneumatic tires, check the inflation pressure of the running wheels.
Check track tension.
Check the steering, brakes and auxiliary hydraulics.
Before starting the engine, check the accelerator for ease of movement (accelerator must auto-
matically return to neutral position).
Check that attachments and loads are secure.
If safe operation of the vehicle requires the use of radios or mobile telephones, these must be
checked before starting off to ensure that they work correctly and that a good connection can be
established.
Do not operate the snow groomer if warning lamps come on.
When using the snow groomer
The driver must employ a driving style that ensures that they have command of the vehicle at all times
and is able to stop within a safe distance. They must adapt the speed to the snow, ground and visibili-
ty conditions, as well as to the characteristics of the snow groomer, including those of the mounted
attachments.
The following guidelines must be observed:
If required, wear personal protective equipment (e.g., protective goggles, gloves and shoes).
Snow groomer BISON Operating and Maintenance Manual
BISON 908930245 - 30367 3 - Safety 21 (255)
3.4
3.4.1
3.4.2

Use the safety belts and grab handles.
Always switch on the rotating beacons.
Monitor the on-board instruments.
Do not exceed the snow groomer's performance limits.
Raise the attachments when turning the snow groomer on its own axis.
If the tracks start to slip, reduce the track speed and adjust to a driving speed suitable for the
ground conditions.
If a warning lamp comes on or if there are traces of oil behind the snow groomer, immediately
switch off the engine and fix the malfunction.
When using attachments, brake evenly or take corners slowly.
Do not use rear tiller or half-pipe tiller when persons are nearby.
Reduce speed when approaching people or on difficult terrain; ensure that nobody is standing
within the swivel range of the snow groomer.
If people are at risk due to moving attachments or the vehicle itself, give audible and visual warn-
ings.
Make sure that any parking space intended for the snow groomer has sufficient load-bearing ca-
pacity (e.g., garages, bridges, snow-covered car parks).
When parking the vehicle or leaving it unattended, engage the parking brake, lower the attach-
ments to the ground, and remove the ignition key.
Never leave the engine running unattended. Do not drive the snow groomer over ditches, knolls
or scarps. Injuries or mechanical damage can occur as a result.
When driving on steep ski slopes, the snow groomer may skid when braking. Maintain constant
speed or accelerate slightly to regain control of the snow groomer.
If slipping sideways, turn the snow groomer uphill and accelerate to avoid skidding. If slipping
sideways, never turn the snow groomer downhill.
Blind terrain can hide dangerous obstacles; drive slowly and extremely carefully.
Before crossing a frozen lake or waterway with the snow groomer, ensure that the load bearing
capacity of the ice is sufficient.
On steep slopes where it is impossible to stop due to the gradient, the vehicle must be driven
only if the driver is convinced there is no risk to himself or third parties. Otherwise another route
must be chosen.
Operating and Maintenance Manual Snow groomer BISON
22 (255)3 - Safety BISON 908930245 - 30367