RAMROD 905 User manual

MINI SKID LOADER
MODELS 905, 915
____________________________________________
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
____________________________________________
RAMROD Equipment
(A Division of Leon’s Mfg. Company Inc.)
Canada
P.O. Box 5002
135 York Road East
Yorkton, Saskatchewan
S3N 3Z4
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ramrodequip.com
Rev. September 2018

INTRODUCTION
TO OUR CUSTOMER:
RAMROD EQUIPMENT is pleased that you have chosen a RAMROD MINI-SKID.
This loader is a simple, compact power source designed and manufactured to give you
years of dependable service.
Read this Manual carefully before operating the Mini-Skid. It contains the necessary
information for safe and proper operating, routine servicing and preventive maintenance.
We also recommend that you carefully read the Engine Manufacturer’s Manual before
operating the Mini-Skid. Do not neglect the maintenance that is recommended. All
engine notations in the manual are generic, the manufacturer’s manual takes precedence
in case of any differences.
The reference to right-hand and left-hand used throughout this Manual refers to the
position when operating the machine, facing forward.
For any additional information required, please refer to your RAMROD Dealer.
©2005, 2008 Copyright, Ramrod Equipment Corporation
All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and
retrieval system, without written permission of Ramrod Equipment Corporation.
January 2008
Printed in Canada
RAMROD EQUIPMENT
(A Division Of Leon’s Mfg. Company Inc.)
CANADA
Box 5002 –135 York Road East
Yorkton, Saskatchewan
S3N 3Z4
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.ramrodequip.com

RAMROD WARRANTY
The RAMROD EQUIPMENT warrants each new RAMROD Mini-Skid to be free from
proven defects in material and workmanship under normal use and maintenance for a
period of twelve (12) months, commencing with delivery to the original buyer. Under
conditions of this warranty, the Mini-Skid must be operated according to manufacturer’s
instructions, and by a competent and careful operator.
This warranty shall not apply to the Mini-Skid on any part thereof, which has been
subject to misuse, negligence, alteration, accident, or used in any way, which, in the
manufacturer’s option, adversely affects its performance.
It is the responsibility of the Buyer, at his expense, to transport the Mini-Skid or any part
thereof in fulfilling this warranty to a designated service shop.
In no event shall the Buyer be entitled to recover for incidental or consequential damages
such as, but not limited to, rental of replacement equipment, loss of profits, and loss of
Mini-Skid fluids and lubricants.
This warranty does not extend to Mini-Skid components such as, but not limited to,
engine, tires, batteries, hydraulic/hydrostatic components which are manufactured by
others, and which carry separate warranties of their respective manufacturer’s.
This warranty is in lieu of all other warranty expressed or implied, and there are no
warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
No representative of the manufacturer, nor the selling dealer has authority to change this
warranty in any manner whatsoever.
Printed in Canada
NOTE: In order for warranty to be in effect, the following warranty
registration forms must be completed and one copy sent to Ramrod
Equipment at time of sale.

Leon's Mfg. Company Inc.
“Home of Quality Leon & Ramrod Products”
RAMROD MINI-SKID LOADER
DEALER PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION & SERVICE REPORT
Owner: Dealer:
Address: Address:
Model: Serial No: Date:
Engine Serial No: Hour Meter Reading:
Item Remarks
( ) Check engine oil level
( ) Check hydraulic oil level
( ) Check radiator coolant level (if applicable)
( ) Check battery fluid level
( ) Check engine belt tension
( ) Check air cleaner hoses & connections
( ) Grease/lubricate all pivot points
( ) Check all nuts/bolts for tightness (wheel
bolts 90 ft-lbs)
( ) Check tire pressure
( ) Check drive chain adjustment
( ) Check for loose or missing bolts, nuts,
cotter pins etc.
( ) Check lift cylinder adjustment
Leon's Mfg. Company Inc.
PO Box 5002, 135 York Road East, Yorkton, SK S3N 3Z4 Canada
Ph: 306.786.2600 Fx: 306.782.1884
www.leonsmfg.com www.ramrodequip.com www.lrattachments.com

RAMROD EQUIPMENT
NEW MINI-SKID WARRANTY REGISTRATION FORM
_____________________ __________________ _____________________
Mini-Skid Serial Number Model Number Engine Serial
Number
________________________________ _______________________________
Name of Owner Name of Dealer
________________________________
Owner’s Type of Business
________________________________ _______________________________
Owners Address Dealers Address
________________________________ _______________________________
Date Mini-Skid Sold Date Mini-Skid Delivered
OPTIONS & ACCESSORIES
TIRES:
18 x 8.5 x 8 Turf Tire
20 x 8 x 10 Skid Steer Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Turf Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Chevron Tire
18 x 9.5 x 8 Chevron Tire
Deep Lug Tracks
Turf Tracks
Other ______________
BUCKETS:
31 inch ( 787 mm)
36 inch ( 914 mm)
42 inch (1067 mm)
44 inch (1118 mm)
Other __________
RAMROD COPY
Please forward to:
RAMROD EQUIPMENT
P.O. Box 5002, 135 York Road East
Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada
S3N 3Z4
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

P.O. Box 5002, 135 York Road East
Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada
S3N 3Z4
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
RAMROD EQUIPMENT
NEW MINI-SKID WARRANTY REGISTRATION FORM
_____________________ __________________ _____________________
Mini-Skid Serial Number Model Number Engine Serial
Number
________________________________ _______________________________
Name of Owner Name of Dealer
________________________________
Owner’s Type of Business
________________________________ _______________________________
Owners Address Dealers Address
________________________________ _______________________________
Date Mini-Skid Sold Date Mini-Skid Delivered
OPTIONS & ACCESSORIES
TIRES:
18 x 8.5 x 8 Turf Tire
20 x 8 x 10 Skid Steer Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Turf Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Chevron Tire
18 x 9.5 x 8 Chevron Tire
Deep Lug Tracks
Turf Tracks
Other ______________
BUCKETS:
31 inch ( 787 mm)
36 inch ( 914 mm)
42 inch (1067 mm)
44 inch (1118 mm)
Other __________
DEALER COPY

7
P.O. Box 5002, 135 York Road East
Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada
S3N 3Z4
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
RAMROD EQUIPMENT
NEW MINI-SKID WARRANTY REGISTRATION FORM
_____________________ __________________ _____________________
Mini-Skid Serial Number Model Number Engine Serial
Number
________________________________ _______________________________
Name of Owner Name of Dealer
________________________________
Owner’s Type of Business
________________________________ _______________________________
Owners Address Dealers Address
________________________________ _______________________________
Date Mini-Skid Sold Date Mini-Skid Delivered
OPTIONS & ACCESSORIES
TIRES: TIRES:
18 x 8.5 x 8 Turf Tire
20 x 8 x 10 Skid Steer Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Turf Tire
18 x 6 x 8 Chevron Tire
18 x 9.5 x 8 Chevron Tire
Deep Lug Tracks
Turf Tracks
Other ______________
BUCKETS:
31 inch ( 787 mm)
36 inch ( 914 mm)
42 inch (1067 mm)
44 inch (1118 mm)
Other __________
CUSTOMER COPY

TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. SAFETY....................................................................................................................... 1
Safety Precautions............................................................................................................. 1
II CONTROL.................................................................................................................... 3
Engine Controls –Kawasaki 23hp Gas ............................................................................ 3
Control Panel .................................................................................................................... 4
Attachment Lock Pins....................................................................................................... 6
III OPERATION............................................................................................................... 7
Pre-Starting Inspection and Preparation ........................................................................... 7
Starting Procedures........................................................................................................... 7
Shut-off Procedures .......................................................................................................... 8
Mounting Attachments...................................................................................................... 9
Operational Procedures................................................................................................... 10
Lift Arm Support Device................................................................................................ 13
Lifting The Mini-Skid..................................................................................................... 13
IV. MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................... 14
Engine Maintenance –Kawasaki Engine .......................................................................14
Battery and Hydraulic Oil Filter Maintenance................................................................ 15
Fuels, Lubricants and Capacities .................................................................................... 16
Hydraulic System Maintenance...................................................................................... 17
Final Drive Maintenance................................................................................................. 18
Chain Lubrication ........................................................................................................... 19
Periodic Greasing Details ............................................................................................... 20
Periodic Maintenance and Service Schedule.................................................................. 21
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................. 22

1
I. SAFETY
OPERATE MINI-SKID SAFELY
IMPROPER OPERATION OF THIS MINI-SKID MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
BEFORE OPERATING THIS MINI-SKID, OPERATORS MUST HAVE PROPER
INSTRUCTIONS, BE FAMILIAR WITH THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, AND HAVE READ
THIS AND THE ENGINE MANUFACTURER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY.
THIS SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
POINTS OUT IMPORTANT
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
OPERATORS MUST UNDERSTAND CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE EQUIPMENT,
WITH RESPECT TO SPEED, BRAKING, STEERING, STABILITY AND LOAD CHARACTERISTICS
BEFORE STARTING TO OPERATE.
NEW OPERATORS MUST CHECK ALL CONTROLS IN A SAFE, OPEN AREA BEFORE STARTING
WORK.
WARNING
This Decal Advised Of Actions or
Danger Which Can Cause
Personal Injury.
Wear Ear Protection
When Engine is Running.
The Sound Pressure
level Is: 102 dB for A
Weighted Level & 88 dB
for C Weighted Level
IMPORTANT
This Decal Identifies Procedures
Which Must Be Followed to
Prevent Damage To The
Mini-Skid
Do Not Use The Mini-Skid
During A Thunderstorm
Or When There Is A
Chance Of A Lightning
Strike.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
READ YOUR OWNERS’S MANUAL AND ALL SUPPLEMENTS BEFORE OPERATING YOUR MINI-SKID.
WHEN LEARNING TO OPERATE, SET THE FLOW DIVIDER TO LOW GROUND SPEED AND PROCEED
SLOWLY AND CAREFULLY.
DO NOT PLACE FEET UNDER THE PLATFORM.
DO NOT OPERATE ANY OF THE CONTROL LEVERS INCLUDING AUXILIARY POWER TAKE-0FF
UNLESS YOU ARE STANDING WITH BOTH FEET ON THE PLATFORM AND FIRMLY HOLDING THE
GRIP HANDLES.
DO NOT JERK THE CONTROL LEVERS, USE A STEADY EVEN MOTION.

2
SAFETY
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS –CONTINUED
KEEP HANDS, FEET AND CLOTHING AWAY FROM ALL MOVING PARTS AND CYLINDERS.
DO NOT RIDE IN BUCKET.
DO NOT ALLOW MORE THAN ONE PERSON ON THE MINI-SKID AT ANY TIME.
DO NOT ALLOW ANY OTHER PERSON OR ANIMAL CLOSE TO THE MINI-SKID WHILE IN OPERATION.
WATCH FOR OTHER PEOPLE AND EQUIPMENT.
KEEP THE BUCKET LOW WHEN TRAVELLING, TURNING OR CHANGING SPEED.
TRAVEL SLOWLY OVER ROUGH TERRAIN.
BEWARE OF TRENCHES, HOLES AND SIDE SLOPES
DO NOT DRIVE THE MINI-SKID ACROSS STEEP SLOPES.
LOAD, UNLOAD AND TURN AROUND ON FLAT, LEVEL GROUND ONLY.
ENSURE ADEQUATE VENTILATION WHEN USING THE MACHINE IN CONFINED SPACES.
DO NOT CARRY LOAD WITH ARMS IN A RAISED POSITION. ALWAYS CARRY LOADS CLOSE TO THE
GROUND. DO NOT STEP OFF PLATFORM WITH THE LOAD RAISED.
TO AVOID FREE-FALL OF LOAD WHEN LOWERING LIFT ARMS, DO NOT PUSH LIFT ARM LEVER
FULLY FORWARD.
DO NOT EXCEED RATED LOAD CAPACITY.
ALWAYS LOWER THE BUCKET AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE BEFORE LEAVING THE MACHINE.
AVOID PARKING ON A SLOPE. IF IT IS NECESSARY, PARK ACROSS THE GRADE, GROUND THE
BUCKET AND BLOCK THE WHEELS.
WHEN HOOKING UP ATTACHMENTS TO THE MACHINE, CHECK TO BE SURE LOCK PINS ARE FULLY
ENGAGED.
DO NOT PLACE ANY PART OF THE OPERATOR’S BODY OR ALLOW ANYONE UNDER MINI-SKID ARMS
OR ATTACHMENTS.
DO NOT LUBRICATE, ADJUST OR REPAIR THE MACHINE WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING.
NEVER FUEL A HOT MACHINE.
DO NOT SMOKE WHEN FUELING OR OPERATING THE MACHINE.
ALWAYS READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL FOR PROCEDURES FOR SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE OF
THE MINI-SKID.
REMEMBER, SAFETY FIRST.

3
II CONTROL
It is necessary to become familiar with the location and purpose of each control before
operating the Mini-Skid.
ENGINE CONTROLS –KAWASAKI 23 HP AIR-COOLED ENGINE
Choke Control
Throttle Control
Dipstick Access
Figure 1: Instrument Panel –Kawasaki Air Cooled Engine
Choke Control –Pull the choke control
out to start a cold engine. As the engine
warms up push choke control in
gradually.
Throttle Control –When the throttle
control lever is set down the engine is at
idle speed. Pushing the control up
increases engine speed.
Ignition Switch –The ignition switch is
a three-position switch. Clockwise from
the OFF position are the ON and
START positions.
Dipstick Access –The oval hole in the
dash panel allows easy access to the
dipstick to check engine oil level.
Tach/Hourmeter –The tach/hourmeter
shows engine hours when the machine is
turned off and engine rpm while the
machine is running. Note that for the
first 60 minutes run time is recorded in
minutes.
IMPORTANT
Be Sure Ignition Key Is In Off Position,
or Even Removed, When the Engine Is
Not Running
IMPORTANT
For Maximum Power While Working,
the Engine Should Be Running At Full
Throttle
Tach/Hourmeter
Ignition Switch

4
4
5
3
1
2
2
7
CONTROL PANEL Figure 3: Control Panel
PRIMARY CONTROLS
1. Lift Arm Lever
2. Tilt Lever
3. Auxiliary Lever
4. Left Hand Drive Lever
5. Right Hand Drive Lever
6. Grip Handle
7. Flow Divider
DRIVE LEVERS, Items 4 & 5 Figure 3
The left hand drive lever controls the
wheels (track) on the left hand side and the
right hand drive lever controls the wheels
(track) on the right hand side.
Engage the drive levers slowly because
even a small movement of the levers will
cause motion. All lever movements
should be smooth and gradual. To drive
the Mini-Skid straightforward, move both
control levers forward the same amount.
To drive the Mini-Skid Straight backward,
move control levers back the same
amount.
The Mini-Skid is steered by moving one
lever further forward than the other. To
turn left, move the right lever further
ahead than the left lever; to turn right,
move the left lever further ahead than the
right lever. For the Mini-skid to perform a
spin-turn, or “Skid Steer”, move one lever
forward and the other backward the same
amount.
The “TASKMASTER” features single-
handed steering. For normal operation,
the most comfortable hand position is to
operate the two steering levers with the
Figure 4: Single Hand Steering
palm of the right hand, with the fingers
gripping the grip handle. Flexing the
fingers will allow forward travel, and
simply rotating the palm will allow
normal steering. To reverse, slip the
palm back to the rear of the grip handle,
and use the tips of the fingers to pull the
steering levers backwards.
This will allow for more precise control
of the unit. The left hand should grip the
grip handle for operator stability, but can
also be used to operate the tilt and dump
functions as required.
NOTE: Be sure to slowly move the
levers to the center (neutral) position
when stopping. The Mini-Skid will stop
INSTANTLY if the operator releases the
drive levers.
Warning
Do Not Move Any Of The Control Levers
Unless Standing With Both Feet On The
Platform And Holding The Grip Handles

5
Warning
Keep BOTH HANDS On The Grip
Handle At All Times When Operating
The Machine.
Warning
Use Extreme Caution When Stopping. If
The Bucket Or Attachments Is Raised,
The Machine Can Tip.
Keep All Movements Smooth. All New
Operators Must Work The Machine In A
Safe Open Area To Become Familiar
With Its Operating Characteristics.
LIFT CONTROL LEVER –Item 1,
Figure 3
The outside control lever located on the
left hand side controls the lift. Pushing
the lever forward lowers the lift arm and
pulling the lever back raises the lift arm.
In these two positions, the lever is spring
centered to neutral upon release of the
lever.
TILT CONTROL LEVER –Item 2,
Figure 3
The inside control lever located on the
left hand side controls the tilting action
of attachments such as buckets, forks,
etc. Pulling the lever back tilts the
attachments back. Pushing forward on
the lever tilts forward or “dumps” the
attachment. The lever is spring centered
to neutral upon release.
IMPORTANT
Ensure That The Auxiliary Lever Is Kept
In Neutral When Not In Use To Avoid
Wasting Power. Engine Is Difficult To
Start If Lever Is Engaged. Hydraulic Oil
May Also Overheat.
FLOW DIVIDER –Item 7, Figure 3
The 905/915 Taskmasters feature a
variable flow divider which splits
available oil flow between the auxiliary
circuit and the loader functions. This
allows the operator to select the speed of
the attachment and machine.
With the flow divider rotated all the way
counter clockwise full flow is available
for the drives, but no flow is available
for the attachment. This enables the
operator to set the machine speed and
attachment flow to match the conditions
of any given job.
For applications like trenching and
tilling almost all flow should be diverted
to the attachment, leaving only enough
to crawl the machine along. Other
applications such as grapple buckets will
require a more balanced flow.
Even when the auxiliary circuit is not in
use, the flow control can be used to vary
machine speed. For work in close
quarters, and while learning to drive set
machine speed to slow. To cover ground
rapidly set the flow control to high
machine output.
Be aware that the flow control will also
change the speed of various machine
functions such as lift and tilt. With full
flow to drives these will operate quickly.
AUXILIARY LEVER –Item 3,
Figure 3
Direction of auxiliary flow and “on-off”
control of attachments is provided by
this lever. Pushing this lever forward
will operate the attachment in one
direction, while pulling it back will
operate the attachment in the opposite
direction. This lever locks in each
position and must be returned to the
center (off) position manually. Ensure
the lever is set to off when not in use.

6
ATTACHMENT LOCK PINS
The “Taskmaster” tool bar design allows
changing from one attachment to another
quickly and easily, without having to
remove pins.
Attachments are secured on the unit with
two spring-loaded pins. Rotating the
handles on the pins one half of a turn
moves the pins from the locked to the
unlocked position.
To unlock attachments, rotate both pins
so that their handles are both pointing to
the outside of the tool bar (as shown in
Figure 5).
To lock attachments, rotate both pins
inwards so that both handles are pointing
towards the center of the machine (as
shown in Figure 6). This will allow the
springs to push the pins downwards
through the mounting holes in the
attachment and secure it to the unit.
WARNING
The design of the quick attach system is
such that attachments can be lifted and
carried without the lock pins being
engaged. Before using any attachment,
check to be sure that the lock pins are
fully engaged and properly in place.
The attachment will fall off when
dumped if the lock pins are not engaged,
resulting in possible damage or injury.
Figure 5 (Lock Pins Disengaged)
Figure 6 (Lock Pins Engaged)
WARNING
After Hook-Up To Attachment, Check To
Be Sure Lock Pins Are Fully Engaged,
And Locked Into Position.

7
III OPERATION
You can take full advantage of all the features of your RAMROD Mini-Skid by
following the operating information presented here. The Mini-Skid has been designed to
do a lot of work with a minimum of operating fatigue.
Note: For more information regarding engine starting and operation, refer to your engine
“Owner’s Manual”.
PRE-STARTING INSPECTION AND PREPARATION
Before you start the Mini-Skid for the first time each day, perform the following checks and
service:
1. Check engine crankcase oil level.
2. Check engine fuel and open fuel
shut-off valve(s) if closed.
3. Check Hydraulic fluid level in
tank.
4. Check for fuel, engine oil or
hydraulic leaks. –WARNING-
Never check for hydraulic leaks
with your bare hand. High-
pressure fluid could penetrate
your skin and cause severe
injury.
5. Visually inspect all hoses, lines,
fittings, tires, pivot points,
mounting pins, nuts and bolts,
safety shields and decals for
possible failure or looseness.
6. Check that all controls are in the
neutral position.
WARNING
Do Not Move Any Of The Control Levers
Unless Standing With Both Feet On The
Platform And Holding The Grip Handles
STARTING PROCEDURE
1. Push the throttle lever down
slightly
2. Engage choke
3. Turn the ignition switch to “ON”
and then through to the “START
position. (If the engine fails to
start by cranking for 10 seconds,
wait 5 seconds before trying
again.
4. As the engine warms up, push
back the choke control gradually.
5. Set the throttle lever for idling
speed. Avoid excessive engine
speed during warm-up.
6. To restart a warm engine –move
throttle control slightly and turn
ignition key to “START”.
IMPORTANT
Do Not Crank Engine With Starter For More
Than 10 Seconds At A Time, As This Will
Overheat The Starter.
IMPORTANT
Ensure The Auxiliary Lever is In Neutral When
Not Being Used To Avoid Wasting Power.
Engine is Difficult To Start If Lever Is Engaged.
Hydraulic Oil May Also Overheat
IMPORTANT
Do Not Put Mini-Skid Under Full Load
Condition Until It Has Warmed Up.

8
SHUT-OFF PROCEDURE
1. Park the Mini-Skid on level ground.
If it is necessary to park on a slope,
park across the grade and block the
wheels.
2. Lower the lift arms and ground the
bucket.
3. Return throttle control to “idle”
position, and allow engine to idle for
a short time.
4. Ensure Auxiliary & Control levers
are in neutral position.
5. Turn ignition key off, and remove
key.
IMPORTANT
Be Sure Ignition Key Is In OFF Position
Or Removed When The Engine Is Not
Running.

9
MOUNTING ATTACHMENTS
INSTALLATION OF ATTACHMENT
1. Rotate Lock Pins to the unlock
position (handle pointing outwards).
2. Tilt the attachment frame forward as
show in Figure 7, so that the top
round edge of the attachment frame
will fit under the lip of the
attachment.
3. Drive into the attachment, raising the
arms so that the top of the
attachment frame slips under the lip
on the attachment, and attachment
lifts slightly.
4. Using the tilt cylinder, roll back the
attachment so it drops into place, as
shown in Figure 8
5. Rotate the lock pins to the locked
position (handles facing inwards),
and check that the lock pins are fully
inserted through the lock holes in the
attachment.
6. Connect attachment hydraulic hoses
(if required) to the quick couplers
shown in Figure 9.
WARNING
After Hook-Up To Attachment, Check To
be Sure Lock Pins Are Fully Engaged
and Locked Into Position
REMOVAL OF ATTACHMENT
1. Lower lift arms and tilt forward on
the attachment so that the attachment
is resting on the ground.
2. If attachment is hydraulically
equipped, stop the engine, relieve
hydraulic pressure in the attachment
lines by shifting the auxiliary lever
back and forth, and disconnect the
attachment.
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
3. Rotate the lock pins to the unlocked
(handles pointing outwards) position.
4. Start engine, tilt the attachment
mount frame clears that lip on the
attachment, and back the Mini-Skid
away from the attachment.
5. Attach the two attachment quick
couplers together to avoid getting
dirt in the attachment hydraulics.

10
OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE
Mini-Skid operational procedure and suggestions in this manual are based on the use of a bucket.
Procedures and suggestions may vary with different attachments. See your attachment manual or
contact your local dealer for more information.
OPERATING SUGGESTIONS
1. Install an attachment (bucket). Set the
machine flow divider to half power to
the machine or less. Drive carefully to a
clean and level area and practice
operating the Mini-Skid at a slow rate
until familiar with the operation of all
controls.
2. Hydraulic power transmission is
instantaneous. When using the drive
levers, sudden movement will result in
acceleration to full speed and a very
jerky ride. Use smooth and gradual
movements when using the drive levers.
3. For efficient operation of the Mini-Skid,
Keep the work area small, and as level
as possible.
4. Decrease cycle time by “SKID” turning
rather than backing up, using a slow
turn, then going forward.
5. When driving on slopes keep the
heaviest end of the Mini-Skid upward.
When driving on a slope with an empty
bucket, back up the slope in reverse, and
drive down a slope forward as in Figure
10. When driving on a slope with a
load, drive up the slope forward and
back down the slope in reverse as in
Figure 11.
6. Fill the bucket to rated capacity.
Turning is easier with a full load than
with a partial load.
7. To increase machine life, let the engine
warm completely before starting
operations each day. Avoid “over-
loading” or “lugging” the Mini-Skid.
WARNING
Always Carry The Bucket Low While Moving. Drive
Directly Up And Down Instead of Across A Slope
Figure 10 –Empty Bucket
Figure 11 –Full Bucket
Figure 12
WARNING
If Operating Mini-Skid Indoors, Make Sure
Building Is Well Ventilated.

11
FILLING AND DUMPING A BUCKET
1. Approach the pile with the lift arms fully
down and bucket cutting edge just
skimming the top of the ground as in
Figure 12.
2. As soon as the bucket is full, tilt the
bucket back and back away from the
pile, as shown in Figure 13 and 14.
3. When dumping, raise bucket high
enough to clear stockpile or sides of
container being loaded.
4. Drive slowly forward until bucket is
over dumping area and tilt bucket
forward until it completely empties.
5. Tilt bucket, back up if necessary to clear
container side, and back away.
WARNING
Use Extreme Caution When Stopping. If
The Bucket Or Attachment Is Raised The
Machine Can Tip. Keep All Movements
Smooth and Gradual When Maneuvering
With Lift Arms Raised. Do Not Cross
Obstructions With Arms Raised. All New
Operators Must Work The Machine In A
Safe Open Area To Become Familiar With
Its Operating Characteristics.
WARNING
Never Step Off The Operator Platform With
The Load Raised
DIGGING WITH A BUCKET
1. Lower lift arms fully and tilt bucket
forward until cutting edge is on the
ground.
2. Drive Machine forward slowly and
continue to tilt bucket forward until it
enters the ground to desired depth and
then tilt it back a small amount to keep
an even depth, as show in Figure 15.
3. Continue driving forward until bucket is
full and then tilt bucket fully back while
driving slowly forward or
stopping the machine.
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16
LEVELLING
1. To spread material on uneven
ground, raise lift arms and tilt
bucket forward while driving
slowly forward, as shown in
Figure 16.

12
1. To level a filled area, tilt bucket
forward and drive machine
backwards to drag bucket and spread
material, as shown in Figure 17.
2. Another method of leveling is to
travel forward with bucket down and
level, full of material and pushing
excess into low areas. Depth is
controlled by tilting the bucket
slightly up or down, as in Figure 18.
Figure 17
Figure 18
Figure 19
BACKFILLING
1. When filling a trench or a hole, drive
up to the hole with bucket low or
push material up to edge, as in
Figure 19.
2. Tilt bucket forward as soon as it
reaches the edge of the hole and
when necessary raise the arms to
empty the bucket.
TRANSPORTING THE MINI-SKID
Important
Never Tow The Mini-Skid Damage May
Result.
When the machine is transported on a
truck or trailer, proper ramps must be
used for loading.
A Mini-Skid with an empty bucket, or
no attachment should be driven
backwards up a ramp onto the trailer or
forward down a ramp, as shown in
Figure 20.
After the Mini-Skid is driven onto the
transporting vehicle, lower any
attachments, and install chains to hold
Mini-Skid from moving during sudden
stops or when traveling up and down
grades.
Close the fuel valve when the Mini-Skid
is to be transported. Vibration during
transport could cause the carburetor to
flood.
Figure 20
WARNING
When Transporting On A Road Or
Highway, Be Sure That The Trailer Is
Equipped With Lights And Signs As
Required By Law.