Spearhead R130 Product manual

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
1
Spearhead
Compact Flail Mowers
R130 & R150
Handbook & Parts
Manual
Please ensure that this manual is handed to the operator before using the
machine for the first time. The operator must fully understand the contents
of this manual before using this machine.
(
If the machine is resold the Manual must be
g
iven to the new owner.
)
Spearhead Machinery
Green View
Salford Priors
Evesham
Worcestershire
WR11 8SW
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.spearheadmachinery.com
[email protected]
Important Note
The information contained in this manual is correct at the time of
publication. However, in the course of constant development, changes in
specification are inevitable. Should you find the information given in this
book different to the machine it relates to please contact the “After Sales
Department” for advice.
Part No: 8999046 – REV A

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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EC Declaration of Conformity,
Conforming to EEC Directive
89/392/EEC, 98/37/EC & 98/38/EC
We, Spearhead Machinery Ltd, Green View, Salford Priors, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 8SW declare under our
sole responsibility that the :
Product ……………………………………………………………
Product Code ……………………………………………………………
Serial No ……………………………………………………………
Flail Head Serial No ……………………………………………………………
Type ……………………………………………………………
Manufactured by the above company complies with the required provisions
of the directive 89/392/EEC, 98/37/EC and 98/38/EC and AMD
91/368/EEC, AMD 93/44/EEC, AMD 93/68/EEC and conforms with
European norm. BSEN 292; Part 1: 1991 Safety of Machinery – Technical,
Methodology; Part 2: 1991 Safety of Machinery - Technical Specifications
and other national standards associated with its design and construction
as listed in the Technical File.
Signed………………………………………………………………………………………..
(On behalf of Spearhead Machinery Ltd)
Status General Manager
Date.....................................

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Contents
Operator Section
General Information 3
Machine Description & Purpose of Use 4
Machine Identification 4
Technical Data 5
Technical Specifications 5
Safety Features 6
Safety Information 7
Safety Decals 9
Vehicle/Tractor Preparation 10
Machine Attachment 12
PTO Shaft 14
Setting Up and Adjustment 15
Flails 16
Drive Belts 17
Pre-Operational Checks 18
Operation 19
Detachment and Storage 20
Maintenance 21
Troubleshooting 23
Warranty 24
Parts
Mower Assembly 27

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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General Information
Always read this manual before fitting or operating the machine – whenever
any doubt exists contact your dealer or the Spearhead Service Department for
advice and assistance.
Use only Spearhead Genuine Service Parts on Spearhead Equipment &
Machines
DEFINITIONS –The following definitions apply throughout this manual:
WARNING
An operating procedure, technique etc., which –
can result in personal injury or loss of life if not observed carefully.
CAUTION
An operating procedure, technique etc., which –
can result in damage to either machine or equipment if not observed carefully.
NOTE
An operating procedure, technique etc., which –
is considered essential to emphasis.
LEFT & RIGHT HAND
This term is applicable to the machine when attached to the tractor and is
viewed
from the rear – this also applies to tractor references.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Machine Description & Purpose of Use
The Compact R130 & R150 series of machines are ‘3-point linkage’ tractor
mounted flail mowers designed primarily for the mulching of grasses,
brambles, small bushes, branches, vines, and general crop residues. Their
tough construction and working widths of 1.3 and 1.5m make them ideal for
general maintenance use on compact tractors in green areas, vineyards,
orchards, verges, and all areas where operating space is at a premium.
These machines should only be used to perform tasks for which they were
designed – use of the machine for any other function may be both dangerous
to persons and damaging to components and is therefore not advisable.
Machine Identification
Each machine is fitted with an identification plate with the following information:
1. Machine (Part Number)
2. Machine Serial No.
3. Machine Weight
When ordering spares or replacement parts from your local dealer it is important to
quote both Part Number and Serial Number as stated on the identification plate so
the machine and model can be quickly and correctly identified.

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Technical Data
Component Identification
1. Frame
2. Gearbox
3. Belt Drive
4. 3-Point Linkage
5. Rear Roller
6. Skid
Technical Specifications
SPECIFICATION COMPACT
R130
COMPACT
R150
Working Width (mm) 1290mm 1450mm
Tractor Power Requirement (kW / HP) 23-27 / 30-35 27-30 / 35-40
PTO Speed (RPM) 540 540
Hammer Blades (No.) 18 20
Y-Blades (No.) 36 40
Machine Weight (kg) 183 205
Offset Capability (mm) 150 150
Linkage (Type) 3-Point (Cat. I) 3-Point (Cat. I)
Machine Width (mm) 1450 1600
Machine Length (mm) 800 800
Machine Height (mm) 800 800
Optional Equipment
The following options are available on these machines:
Front Linkage
Hammer Flails
Y-Blade Flails
The cutting capability of the each particular type of flail will be dependant on
the sort and hardness of the material being cut, but in general the following
cutting thicknesses apply:
Y-Blade Flails – for materials up to a maximum of 30mm diameter.
Hammer Flails – for materials up to a maximum of 45mm diameter.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Noise Level
The sound level of this machine, as measured at the operator’s ear, is within
the range of 70 to 90 dB when the rear window of the tractor is open. We
recommend that ear protectors are worn and the tractor windows kept closed
at all times when operating this machine.
Safety Features
Location Of Machine Safety Features
1. PTO Shaft Shield
2. Drive Belt Guard
3. Safety Decals
4. Protection Flaps
5. Side Skids

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Safety Information
General safety rules:
▲Always read and follow the instructions for the use and maintenance of the
machine before carrying out any work operations or servicing tasks.
▲Improper use of the machine is both highly dangerous to persons and
damaging to the machine components – only use the machine for its
designated task.
▲Both operators and maintenance engineers should be familiar with the
machine and fully aware of dangers surrounding improper use or incorrect
repairs.
▲Before starting, checks to both tractor and machine must be carried out as
regards: functionality, road safety, accident prevention rules.
▲Even when using the machine correctly, stones or other objects may be
thrown a long distance. Therefore nobody must stand within the danger
area. Special attention must be paid when working near roads or buildings.
▲Use tractor’s fitted with safety cabs.
▲The condition of flails and of machine guards must be checked before
beginning the daily work - they must be replaced if damaged or missing
before you use the machine.
▲During checks or repairs, make sure nobody could start the machine by
mistake.
▲Never wear loose or fluttering clothes.
▲Never carry passengers on the tractor.
▲Never carry passengers on the machine.
▲Never connect the power takeoff with the engine running.
▲Never approach the machine until the rotor has completely stopped.
▲Do not enter the working zone of the PTO shaft. It is dangerous to
approach the rotating parts of a machine.
▲Keep the PTO shaft guard in good condition.
▲Before starting, check the surrounding area for the likely presence of
children and/or animals.
▲Do not stand near the machine when it is operating.
▲The PTO shaft must be assembled and disassembled only with the engine
stopped and the starting key removed.
▲Before connecting the power takeoff, check that the speed and the
rotational direction correspond to those of the machine.
▲Immediately replace missing or damaged safety decals.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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▲Before leaving the tractor with the machine attached, proceed as follows:
1. Disconnect the power takeoff.
2. Put the machine steadily on the ground using the tractor’s hydraulic lift.
3. Apply the hand brake and, if the ground is steeply sloping, wedge the
tractor.
4. Remove the starting key.
Transportation Safety
▲In transport, reduce speed, especially on bumpy roads, the weight of the
machine may render driving difficult and damage the machine itself.
▲Ensure the levers that operate the hydraulic lift are locked, to avoid the
lowering of the machine during transport.
▲When driving on public roads, respect all road rules in force.
▲Never transport the machine with the rotor running, even for short
distances.
Operating Safety
▲Pay special attention when working with the machine not to contact fixed
objects such as road drain, walls, shafts, kerbs, guard rails, tracks etc.
This could cause the breakage of the flails, which would be thrown out of
the machine at very high speed.
▲If wires, ropes or chains should become entangled in the rotor stop
immediately to prevent damage or dangerous situations; stop the rotor and
the tractor, take out the starting key. Put working gloves on; clear the rotor
with the aid of pliers or shears. Do not try to disentangle by inverting the
rotational direction of the rotor.
▲Do not use the machine when excessive vibration is experienced, as this
may cause breakage and serious damage - find the cause of the vibration
and eliminate it before using the machine again.
Although the information given here covers a wide range of safety subjects, it is
impossible to predict every eventuality that can occur under differing circumstances
whilst operating this machine. No advice given here can replace ‘good common sense’
and ‘total awareness’ at all times, but will go a long way towards the safe use of your
Spearhead machine.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Safety Decals
1. Always switch machine off, remove starting key and read instruction
manual before performing service or maintenance work on the
machine.
2. Keep a safe distance from the machine at all times - risk from
projection of objects.
3. Risk of hand injury – always ensure all guard are fitted and in place
when machine is operating.
4. Risk of feet injury – keep at a safe distance from the machine when it is
operating.
5. Never stand or ride on the machine.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Vehicle / Tractor Preparation
We recommend vehicles are fitted with
cabs using ‘safety glass’ windows and
protective guarding when used with our
machines.
Fit Operator Guard (part no. OPT0603)
using the hooks provided. Shape the mesh
to cover all vulnerable areas.
Remember the driver must be looking
through mesh and/or polycarbonate glazing
when viewing the machine in all positions - unless the vehicle/ cab
manufacturer can demonstrate that the penetration resistance is equivalent to,
or higher than, that provided by mesh/polycarbonate glazing. If the tractor has
a roll bar only, a frame must be made to carry both mesh and polycarbonate
glazing. The operator should also use personal protective equipment to
reduce the risk of serious injury such as; eye protection (mesh visor to
EN1731 or safety glasses to EN166), hearing protection to EN352, safety
helmet to EN297, gloves, filter mask and high visibility clothing.
Vehicle Ballast
It is imperative when attaching ‘third-party’ equipment to a vehicle that the
maximum possible stability of the machine and vehicle combination is
achieved – this can be accomplished by the utilisation of ‘ballast’ in order to
counter-balance the additional equipment added.
Front weights may be required for rear mounted machines to place 15% of
total outfit weight on the front axle for stable transport on the road and to
reduce ‘crabbing’ due to the drag of the cutting unit when working on the
ground.
Where a machine works to the side of the tractor rear weights may be
required to maintain a reasonable amount of rear axle load on the opposing
wheel.
All factors must be addressed in order to match the type and nature of the
equipment added to the circumstances under which it will be used - factors
that effect stability are:
Centre of gravity of the tractor/machine combination.
Geometric conditions, e.g. position of the cutting head and ballast.
Weight, track width and wheelbase of the tractor.
Acceleration, braking, turning and the relative position of the cutting unit
during these operations.
Ground conditions, e.g. slope, grip, load capability of the soil/surface.
Rigidity of implement mounting.

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Suggestions to increase stability:
Increasing rear wheel track - a vehicle with a wider wheel track is more
stable.
Ballasting the wheel; it is preferable to use external weights but liquid can
be added to around 75% of the tyre volume – water with anti-freeze or the
heavier Calcium Chloride alternative can be used.
Addition of weights – care should be taken in selecting the location of the
weights to ensure they are added to a position that offers the greatest
advantage.
Front axle locking, check with tractor manufacturer.
The advice above is offered as a guide for stability only and is not a guide to vehicle
strength. It is therefore recommended that you consult your vehicle manufacturer or
local dealer to obtain specific advice on this subject, additionally advice should be
sought from a tyre specialist with regard to tyre pressures and ratings suitable for the
type and nature of the machine you intend to fit.

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Machine attachment points ►
Attaching The Machine To The Tractor
Attachment of the machine to the tractor should always be performed on a
firm level site.
Before attachment always ensure:
The machine is in good condition.
All safety guards are in good working condition and correctly fitted.
All flails are correctly fitted and undamaged.
Lubrication points are well greased and the gearbox oil level is correct.
Drive belts are tensioned correctly.
The tractor PTO rpm and direction of rotation correspond to that of the
machine.
Attachment Of The Mower
Drive the tractor ‘squarely’ up to the machine.
Position the tractors lower linkage at a height where it is approximately in line
with the lower linkage points (A) on the machine – refer to photo below.
Drive tractor slowly towards the machine until the lower linkage points
correspond.
Fit linkage pins and secure with spring
clips.
Fit top link to upper linkage point (B).
Raise the machine slightly on the tractors
hydraulics – adjust top link to bring the
machine into the perpendicular position.
Fit check chains and/or stabilisers to
tractor lower links to centralise and
secure the machine in position.
Fit PTO Shaft and attach torque chains –
refer to following page for details of shaft
measurement.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Top linkage working positions ►
Top Linkage
The machines top linkage point (B) has two working modes; floating and fixed
– refer to photo below.
Floating position (B1) should always be used when
working on hilly or uneven terrain to protect the machine
and linkage from damage.
Fixed position (B2) may be used when working on even
level terrain such as playing fields and other similar areas
that present a lower degree of stress on the linkage.
WARNING:
Always use top linkage floating position (B1) when working on hilly, sloping or
undulating terrain.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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PTO Shaft
PTO Shaft Measurement
Measure the PTO shaft and cut to the
dimension shown – the finished length of the
PTO shaft should be 75mm (3”) less than the
measured distance ‘A’ - between tractor
shaft and gearbox stub shaft - to enable
fitting.
NOTE: For subsequent use with different
tractors measure again, there must be a
minimum shaft overlap of 150mm (6”).
Fit PTO in position and attach the torque
chains to a convenient location to prevent
the shaft guards from rotating.
PTO Shaft Length Adjustment
1. Shorten outer plastic tube to 40mm
less than the shortest envisaged shaft
length.
2. Remove the marked tube.
3. Remove same length from inner
plastic tube and metal shaft profiles
(inner and outer).
4. De-burr all edges and remove ‘swarf’
to ensure smooth operation.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Approximate overlap length of PTO shaft with machine lowered to the ground ▲
Approximate gap length of PTO protection tube with machine in working position ▲
Fit torque chains to shaft guards to prevent rotation ►
Setting Up & Adjustment
The height of cut is dependent on working
conditions and volume of material. The cutting
height can be regulated with the hydraulic
system on the tractor and/or rear roller
adjustment – see photo opposite.
The minimum height of cut should be between
1 – 3cm.
NOTE: The machine must always
run on the rear roller not the side
skids – side skids are a
protection feature and in normal
working conditions remain clear
of the ground.
Do not allow the rotor flails to
contact the ground - set roller height to allow a minimum flail to ground clearance of 1
to 3cm.

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Hammer Flails Y-Blade Flails
Flails
As standard, the machine is equipped with Hammer type flails, but as an
option can be fitted with Y-blade flails. The hammer type flails are more suited
to harder working with the ability to cut materials up to 45mm (1¾”) diameter.
Y-blade flails can cut up to 30mm (1¼”) diameter material – these figures are
under normal use and may differ depending on the type and nature of the
material being cut.
The design of the mower is such that during work the rotor unit cuts the
material and projects it upwards into the frame, as the material falls back into
the rotor it is cut again several times until it is small enough to be discharged
from the rear of the machine.
The rotor unit should be inspected on a daily basis prior to work to check for
damaged or missing flails – always replace damaged or missing flails
immediately. Flail bolts should be checked for tightness on a regular basis and
re-tightened as required before attempting to use the machine.
WARNING: Checking of rotor components should only be carried out
with tractors engine switched off, starting key removed and the PTO
shaft disconnected. Always ‘prop up’ the machine using suitable
supports before attempting to inspect or work on components
underneath it.

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Belt tension and adjuster location
Refit belt guarding before running the machine ►
Drive Belts
Belt Tension
It is important for both optimal machine performance and
long lasting belt life that the belts are correctly tensioned
at all times. Tension is correct when a force of 10 kg
exerted on the belts at their mid-point between the upper
and lower pulleys deviates the belts by 15mm.
After an initial first 2 hours of work check belt tension and
taper locks (indicated 1 & 2 in the photo opposite) and tighten
if required.
If the belts require tensioning follow the procedure
stated below.
Belt Adjustment
Adjustment of the belt tension is performed by
loosening the adjuster locking nut and turning the
adjuster bolt to increase or decrease the pressure of the
tensioner pulley on the belts until belt deviation matches
the required measurement – see photo opposite. Belt
tensioning should be performed when the belts are cold.
No other adjustment or maintenance is required on the
belt tensioning system other than routine inspection and
general cleaning of components when inspecting belt
wear.
WARNING: Checking of belts and drive components should
only be carried out with tractors engine switched off, starting
key removed and the PTO shaft disconnected. Never attempt to
run the machine with the belt guard removed.
A – Adjuster locknut B – Adjuster bolt

Spearhead Compact Flail Mowers R130 & R150
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Pre-Operational Checks
Before commencing work with the machine the following checks should be
performed:
Make a visual inspection of the machine to ensure it is in good operational
condition.
Check all safety guarding is in position and in full working order.
Check rotor for missing or damaged flails and replace if required.
Check all greasing points are well lubricated.
Check gearbox oil level.
Check belt tension and adjust if required.
Check PTO speed and direction match that of the machine.

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Optimal forward working speed 3-8 km/h Raise the machine before turning or reversing
Operation
Ensure that the operator is suitably qualified to use a machine of this nature and that
they have fully read and understood this manual - they should be aware of all safety
aspects relating to the safe use of the machine. It is advisable that all ‘first time’
operators practice using the machine in a clear safe area prior to work in order to
familiarise themselves with its operation.
After the initial first 1 hour of work with a new machine, nuts and bolts should
be checked for tightness and the drive belts inspected and re-tensioned if
required – refer to belt section for details.
Prior to starting work the area should be checked for dangerous objects such as
large stones, wood, wire, glass etc. – hazardous objects should be removed from the
area prior to operation with the machine. The location of unmovable or natural
hazards should be noted, or if necessary ‘marked’, to indicate to the operator that the
area should either be avoided or additional caution adopted whilst working around
the hazard.
Starting Work
With the machine switched off, lower it into a position approximately 10cm above the
ground, start the machine and allow it to build up to the correct working speed before
gently lowering the it onto the ground - the machine is now in its work position and
forward travel can begin.
Forward Speed
The forward working speed will depend on the working conditions and nature of the
material being cut. Optimal speed will be in the region of 3-8 km/h (2-5 mph).
Reversing & Turning
When reversing or turning the unit the machine must always be lifted clear of the
ground to avoid damage.
Transport
The following must be observed at all times when transporting the machine:
Machine must always be switched off.
Machine must be raised.
Speed must be kept to a minimum especially on bumpy roads or terrain.
Always abide with local laws and road regulations.
Be aware of the machines width.