Tar River PTS-100 User manual

Rev. 12/21
Pull Type Fertilizer Spreader
PTS-100, PTS-160
Operator’s Manual

2
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
TO THE DEALER:
Assembly and proper installation of this product is the responsibility of the Tar River dealer. Read manual in-
structions and safety rules. Make sure all items on the Dealer’s Pre-Delivery and Delivery Check Lists in the
Owner’s/Operator’s Manual are completed before releasing equipment to the owner.
TO THE OWNER:
Read this manual before operating your Tar River equipment. The information presented will prepare you to
do a better and safer job. Keep this manual handy for ready reference. Require all operators to read this manual
carefully and become acquainted with all the adjustment and operating procedures before attempting to oper-
ate. Replacement manuals can be obtained from your selling dealer. The equipment you have purchased has
been carefully engineered and manufactured to provide dependable and satisfactory use. Like all mechanical
products, it will require cleaning and upkeep. Lubricate the unit as specified. Observe all safety information in
this manual and safety decals on the equipment. For service, your authorized Tar River dealer has trained me-
chanics, genuine Tar River service parts, and the necessary tools and equipment to handle all your needs. Use
only genuine Tar River service parts. Substitute parts will void the warranty and may not meet standards re-
quired for safe and satisfactory operation.
Record your implement model and serial number in the space provide below. Your dealer will need this infor-
mation to give you prompt, efficient service.
Model Number: ______________________________________
Serial Number: _______________________________________
Date Purchased: ______________________________________

4
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Table of Contents
Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Technical Specifications ……………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Safety …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6
Safety Signal Words ……………………………………………………………………………………. 6
General Safety Guidelines ……………………………………………………………………………… 7
Safety Decal Care ………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
Before Operation ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
During Operation ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
Highway And Transport Operations …………………………………………………………………… 10-11
Assembly Instructions…………………………………………………………………………………... 12-13
Swath Spreading Chart………………………………………………………………………………….. 14
Operating Instructions.………………………………………………………………………………….. 15-18
Maintenance……………………………………..……………………………………………………… 19-20
Torque Chart…..………………………………………………………………………………………... 21
Parts Breakdown………………………………………………………………………………………... 24-29
Warranty ………………………………………………………………………………………………... 30

5
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your Tar River Fertilizer Spreader. The PTS Series is a ground driven fertilizer
spreader with steel gears engineered for everyday use. The adjustable tow bar allows the spreader to be used
on multiple hitch height configurations. High floatation tires on a wide base gives greater stability over many
types of terrain.
Technical Specifications
• Gearbox is equipped with steel gears
• Adjustable towing hitch
• High floatation tires
• Powder coated frame and hopper or Poly hopper
• Left - center - right spread pattern
PTS-100 PTS-100P PTS-106 PTS-106P
Weight 75 lbs. 70 lbs. 82 lbs. 76 lbs.
Capacity 225 lbs. 225 lbs. 360 lbs. 360 lbs.
Spread swath 20’ 20’ 20’ 20’
Hopper Steel Poly Steel Poly
Hopper height 40” 40” 44” 44”
Tires 13” x 6” 13” x 6” 16-1/2” x 8” 16-1/2” x 8”

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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
Safety
It is important that you read the entire manual and to become familiar with this product before you begin using
it. This product is designed for certain applications only. The manufacturer cannot be responsible for issues
arising from modification. We strongly recommend this product not be modified and /or used for any applica-
tion other than that for which it is designed. If you have any questions relative to a particular application, DO
NOT use the product until you have first contacted us to determine if it can or should be performed on the
product.
Read and understand this manual and all safety signs before operating and maintaining . Review the safety in-
structions and precautions annually.
Safety Signal Words
TAKE NOTE! This safety alert symbol found though out this manual is used to call you attention to in-
structions involving you personal safety and the safety of others. Failure to follow these instructions can
result in injury or death.
This symbol means:
Attention!
Become alert!
Your safety is involved!
Note the use of the signal words, DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION with the safety messages.
The appropriate signal word for each has been selected using the following guidelines:
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations typically for machine
components which, for functional purposes, cannot be guarded.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury, and includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed. It may also be used
to alert against unsafe practices.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
General Safety Guidelines
Safety of the operator is one of the main concerns in designing and developing a new piece of equipment. De-
signers and manufacturers build in as many safety features as possible. However, every year many accidents
occur which could have been avoided by a few seconds of thought and a more careful approach to handling
equipment. You, the operator, can avoid many accidents by observing the following precautions in this section.
To avoid personal injury, study the following precautions and insist those working with you, or for you, follow
them.
Replace any DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION or instruction safety decal that is not readable or is missing.
Location of such decals are indicated in this manual. Do not attempt to operate this equipment under the influ-
ence of drugs or alcohol.
Review the safety instructions with all users annually.
This equipment is dangerous to children and persons unfamiliar with its operation. The operator should be a
responsible adult familiar with farm machinery and trained in this equipment’s operations. Do not allow per-
sons to operate or assemble this unit until they have read this manual and have developed a thorough
understanding of the safety precautions and of how it works.
To prevent injury of death, use a tractor equipped with a Roll Over Protection System (ROPS). Do not paint
over, remove or deface any signs or warning decals on your equipment. Observe all safety signs and practice
the instructions on them.
Never exceed the limits of a piece of machinery. If its ability to do a job, or to do so safely, is in question -
Don’t try it!
• Keep safety signs clean and legible at all times.
• Replace safety signs that are missing or have become illegible.
• Replaced parts that displayed a safety sign should also display the current safety sign
• Safety signs are available from your Distributor or Dealer Parts Department or the factory.
Safety Decal Care

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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
How to install Safety Signs:
• Be sure that the installation area is clean and dry.
• Decide on the exact position before you remove the backing paper.
• Remove the smallest portion of the split backing paper.
• Align the decal over the specified area and carefully press the small portion with the exposed sticky back-
ing in place.
• Slowly peel back the remaining paper and carefully smooth the remaining portion of the decal in place.
• Small air pockets can be pierced with a pin and smoothed out using the piece of decal backing paper.
• Carefully study and understand this manual.
• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, which may catch in moving parts.
• Always wear protective clothing and substantial shoes.
• Assure that all tires are inflated evenly.
• Give the unit a visual inspection for any loose bolts, worn parts or cracked welds, and make necessary re-
pairs. Follow the maintenance safety instructions included with this manual.
• Be sure that there are no tools lying on or in the equipment.
• Do not use the unit until you are sure that the area is clear, especially of children and animals.
• Don’t hurry the learning process or take the unit for granted. Ease into it and become familiar with your
new equipment.
• Practice operation of your equipment and its attachments. Completely familiarize yourself and other opera-
tors with its operation before using.
• Use a tractor equipped with a Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) and fasten your seat belt prior to start-
ing engine.
• The manufacturer does not recommend usage of tractor with ROPS removed.
• Move tractor wheels to the widest recommended settings to increase stability.
• Securely attach to towing unit. Use a high strength, appropriately sized hitch pin with a mechanical retainer
and attach safety chain.
• Do not allow anyone to stand between the tongue or hitch and the towing vehicle when backing up to the
equipment.
• Do not use the unit until you are sure that the area is clear, especially of children and animals.
Before Operation

9
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
• Children should not be allowed on the product.
• Clear the area of small children and bystanders before moving the feeder.
• If using a towing unit, securely attach feeder by using a hardened 3/4” pin, a metal retainer, and safety
chains if required. Shift towing unit to a lower gear before going down steep downgrades, thus using the
engine as a retarding force. Keep towing vehicle in gear at all times. Slow down for corners and rough ter-
rain.
• Make sure you are in compliance with all local and state regulations regarding transporting equipment on
public roads and highways. Lights and slow moving signs must be clean and visible by overtaking or on-
coming traffic when feeder in transported.
• Beware of bystanders, particularly children! Always look around to make sure that it is safe to start the
engine of the towing vehicle or move the unit. This is particularly important with higher noise levels and
quiet cabs, as you may not hear people shouting.
• NO PASSENGERS ALLOWED! Do not carry passengers anywhere on, or in, the tractor or equipment,
except as required for operation.
• Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts.
• Do not clean, lubricate or adjust your equipment while it is moving.
• When halting operation, even periodically, set the tractor or towing vehicle brakes, disengage the PTO,
shut off the engine and remove the ignition key.
• Be especially observant of the operating area and terrain. Watch for holes, rocks or hidden hazards. Always
inspect the area prior to operation.
• DO NOT operate near the edge of drop-offs or banks.
• DO NOT operate on steep slopes as overturns may result.
• Operate up and down (not across) intermediate slopes. Avoid sudden starts and stops.
During Operation

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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
• Adopt safe driving practices.
• Keep the brake pedals latched together at all times. Never use independent braking with machine in tow
as loss of control and/or upset of unit can result.
• Always drive at a safe speed relative to local conditions and ensure that your speed is low enough for an
emergency stop to be safe and secure. Keep speed at a minimum.
• Reduce speed prior to turns to avoid the risk of overturning.
• Avoid sudden uphill turns on steep slopes.
• Always keep the tractor or towing vehicle in gear to provide engine braking when going downhill. Do not
coast.
• Do not drink and drive!
• Comply with state and local laws governing highway safety and movement of farm machinery on public
roads.
• Use approved accessory lighting flags and necessary warning devices to protect operators of other vehicles
on the highway during daylight and nighttime transport. Various safety lights and devices are available
from your dealer.
• The use of flashing amber lights is acceptable in most localities. However, some localities prohibit their
use. Local laws should be checked for all highway and marking requirements.
• When driving the tractor and equipment on the road or highway under 40 kph (20 mph) at night or during
the day, use the amber warning lights and a slow moving vehicle (SMV) identification emblem.
• Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic.
• Be a safe and courteous driver. Always yield to oncoming traffic in all situations, including narrow bridg-
es, intersections, etc.
• Be observant of bridge loading ratings. Do not cross bridges rated at lower than the gross weight at which
you are operating.
• Watch for obstructions overhead and to the side while transporting.
• Always operate in a position to provide maximum visibility at all times. Make allowances for increased
length and weight of the equipment when making turns, stopping the unit, etc.
• Pick the most level route when transporting across fields. Avoid the edges of ditches or gullies and steep
hillsides.
• Be extra careful when working in inclines.
Highway and Transport Operations

11
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Important Safety Information
• Maneuver the tractor or towing vehicle at safe speeds.
• Avoid overhead wires or other obstacles. Contact with overhead lines could cause serious injury or death.
• Avoid loose fill, rocks and holes, they can be dangerous for equipment operation or movement.
• Allow for unit length when making turns,
• Operate the towing vehicle from the operator’s seat only.
• Never stand alongside of unit with engine running or attempt to start engine and/or operate machine while
standing alongside of unit.
• Never leave running equipment and attachments unattended.
• As a precaution, always recheck the hardware on equipment following every 100 hours of operation. Cor-
rect all problems. Follow the maintenance safety procedures.
Highway and Transport Operations

12
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Assembly Instructions
Assembly
(See Fig. 1)
1. Begin assembly by sliding the threaded bushing (#6) through the bottom center hole of the hopper. Fasten
the mobile shutter (#44) to it with the nut (#43). Make sure the slots in the mobile shutter are facing away
from the bottom of the hopper. Tighten the nut securely.
2. Bolt the guard (#11) to the frame (#10) with the M8 x 16 (#12) bolts, M8 washers (#8) and M8 hex nuts
(#9).
3. Slide the Spinner disc (#42) and the hopper with mobile shutter attached, over the gearbox shaft. Secure
the spinner disc in place with the ‘R’ pin (#39) and secure the rear of the hopper to the square tubing sec-
tion of the frame (#10) using the M8 x 40 carriage bolt (#7), M8 washer (#8) and M8 hex nut (#9).
4. Secure the agitator (#3) to the output shaft using the M6 x 30 bolt (#4) , M6 flat washer (#25) M6 lock nut
(#5).
5. Place the distributor shield (#2) inside the hopper (#1) and fasten with the two M8 x 20 carriage bolts
(#46), M8 washers (#8) and M8 hex nuts (#9) that connect the sides of the frame to the hopper.
6. Slide the flow control assembly (#16) into the slot of the mobile shutter #(44) and fasten to the guard (#11)
with the adjustment knob (#17) and M6 washer (#5).
7. The wheel hubs are offset and are mounted on the shaft (#24) with the long end (the end with the hole) to
the inside. Slide one of the wheels over the left side, a washer #(27) and secure it in place with the ’R’ clip
pin (#41). Slide on the right wheel, and then hold it in place with the bolt (#23) sliding through the hole in
the hub and the hole in the shaft. Secure it in place with the nut (#5). Place the washer (#27) and the ’R’
clip (#41) on the outside of the right wheel.
8. Attach the drawbar tongue (#47) to the square tubing of the frame utilizing the right plate (#14) and left
plate (#15) and the M8 x 40 bolts (#12), M8 washers (#8) and M8 nuts (#9). Select the hole in plate (#14)
that allows the spreader to run parallel to the ground. The correct hole will depend on the hitch height of
the towing unit. Repeat for other side. Attach plates (#18 & #19) by sliding the round stock ends of these
two plates through the tubes that are welded to the ends of the tongue. Bolt the outer end to the frame (the
two plated should be angled upwards with the stock ends pointed inwards after they are bolted.
9. Tighten all hardware to proper torque specifications. Refer to “Torque Specification Chart” on page 21.

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Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Assembly Instructions
Fig. 1

14
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Swath Spreading Chart
Swath Spreading Patterns (lbs./1000 sq. ft.)
Lever Position Spreading width 6.5 feet Spreading width 13 feet
2 mph 4 mph 2 mph 4 mph
16432
212 663
319.5 10 10 5
428 14 14 7
537 18 19 9
646.5 23 23 11.5
756 28 28 14
865.5 33 33 16.5
977 39 38.5 19.5
10 - 44 - 22

15
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Operating Instructions
Operation
It is important that each operator of the Tar River Fertilizer Spreader read and understand the operational pro-
cedures and all related safety precautions outlined in this section. The following checklist is provided for the
operator. It is important for both the personal safety and maintaining good mechanical condition that this check
list is followed.
Prior to operating the Fertilizer Spreader:
 Make sure that the spreader is properly lubricated.
 Check for damaged or missing parts.
 Check that all hardware is tightened according to specifications.
 Check air pressure in tires and adjust according to tire manufacturers specifications.
 Remove any foreign objects from hopper.
 Make sure guards are in place before operating spreader.
 Clear the area of obstacles that can damage the spreader or cause uneven distribution of 

 Clear the area of bystanders, especially small children and animals.
Caution: Never load hopper with material without first securing the spreader
to the tractor. Adding material to the hopper without first attaching it to the
tractor can cause the spreader to flip over causing serious injury or death.
Warning: Take necessary precautions when handling any type of chemicals.
Chemicals can cause eye/skin irritation and or respiratory complications. Al-
ways wear PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) gloves, eye protection, face
mask, respirator when filling the hopper. Refer to the chemical manufactur-
er's label for all safety recommendations.
Warning: If a tractor with a cab is used it must be equipped with proper fil-
tration system or operator must wear a respirator cable of filtering toxic parti-
cles to prevent inhalation. Chemical dust can be harmful and possibly deadly.

16
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Operating Instructions
Attaching to the tractor
 Slide the spreader hitch over the tractor drawbar and secure with a pin.
 The spreader disc must be horizontal to spread material uniformly. Tilt
is adjusted by removing the hardware connecting the side supports to the
hitch and either raising or lowering the hitch (See Fig. 2). Tighten all
hardware to proper torque specs. (See Torque chart on page 21).
Spreading Operation
Consider the following factors when determining material quantity distributed per acre:
1. Operating speed is determined by ground conditions. Faster speeds can be obtained on dry, even, cleared
land. Slower speeds are required for uneven ground. Making a practice run will help determine the correct
setting for spreading as conditions vary.
2. Type or material distributed, density, moisture content, etc.
3. Width of spreading area.
4. Spreader lever position.
Spreading Adjustment
Spreading can be adjusted three ways.
1. Spread pattern.
2. Amount of material distributed.
3. Spreading width.
Spread Pattern
The spread pattern can be regulated by sliding the Adjustment Lever Left, Right, or Center. (See Fig. 3)
RH
LH
Fig. 3
Fig. 2

17
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Operating Instructions
Loosen the Adjustment Knob (See Fig. 4) and slide the Adjustment Handle to the desired position
and re-tighten. In the Center position, the spread pattern is approximately 180 degrees. In the LH
most position, the spread pattern will be mostly 90 degrees to the right side of the spreader. In the
RH most position, the spread pattern will be mostly 90 degrees to the left side of the spreader.
Amount of material spread.
 Loosen the knob located on the Adjustment Handle rod (See Fig. 5). Slide the Adjustment
Handle in towards the hopper to spread less material, out away from the hopper to spread more
material. Sliding the handle all the way in will close the gate and no material is spread.
RH Spread Pattern Center Spread Pattern LH Spread Pattern
Close
Open
Adjustment knob
Adjustment knob
Fig. 5
Fig. 4

18
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Operating Instructions
Spreading Width.

-


Operating on uneven ground.
Take the following precautions when operating on uneven ground:
1. If the terrain is extremely uneven, use tractor rear wheel weights, front tractor wheel weights, and or tire
ballast to improve stability.
2. Consider the work area conditions to determine the best and safest procedure for spreading.
3. If there is a question of traction or stability issues, make a test run over the terrain.
4. Only operate the tractor and spreader up and down inclines, never across. Driving across an incline only
increases the possibility of tip over.
5. When encountering a deep or sharp dip, drive across diagonally to prevent tractor or spreader from drag-
ging the ground possibly causing damage to the spreader.
6. Slow the tractor when making sharp turns to prevent tipping over or losing control of the tractor.
7. Be observant of land conditions, holes, ditches, rocks, roots and other hidden objects. Do not operate near
ditch banks, stream banks or gully edge.
Slower ground speed Faster ground speed
Caution: There is a possibility of roll-over when operating tractor and spread-
er over uneven ground.
Fig. 6

19
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Maintenance
• Proper maintenance is the responsibility of the owner/operator. Poor maintenance is an invitation to trouble.
• Operate the spreader in an area with adequate ventilation. Never operate the engine of
the towing vehicle in a closed building. Exhaust fumes may cause asphyxiation
(suffocation) leading to serious injury or death.
•
maintenance.
• Always use the proper tools or equipment for the job at hand. Maintenance area should be clean and dry.
Electrical outlets and tools are to be properly grounded.
• Use extreme caution when making adjustments. Securely block equipment before servicing.
• After servicing, be sure all tools, parts and service equipment are removed.
• Use personal protection equipment (PPE) such as eye, hand, hearing and proper mask to filter any chemi-
cals used.
• Check tightness of all hardware periodically, including; bolts, nuts, screws, pins. See page 21 For torque
specifications.
• Inspect tires for damage, wear and tear, and pressure. Add the proper amount of air according to the tire
manufacturers specifications. Pressure specifications can be found on the tire.
• Use caution when inflating or servicing tires. Tires can be extremely dangerous if mishandled. Call on
trained professions to service the tires if necessary.
• Where replacement parts are necessary for periodic maintenance and servicing, genuine factory replace-
ment parts must be used to restore your equipment to original specifications. The manufacturer will not
claim responsibility for use of unapproved parts and/or accessories and other damages as a result of their
use.
• liability
for injury or warranty.
Service
Before operating spreader:
• Grease all exposed moving parts.
• Check air pressure in tires.
• Check all hardware for tightness.
• Replace worn or damaged parts.
Danger: Never attempt to perform maintenance on the machine without first stop-
ping the towing vehicle’s engine, setting the parking brake and removing the key
from the ignition. Always wear the proper protection (PPE) when performing ser-
vice. Refer to the chemical manufacturer for proper safety recommendations.

20
Fertilizer Spreader PTS-100, PTS-160 Series
Maintenance
After operating spreader:
• Wash the spreader thoroughly. This is extremely important especially after spreading corrosive materials
such as fertilizer or salt. These materials are highly corrosive and will eat away at metal parts.
• Dry the machine after washing to remove any remaining water. Moisture will cause rust to form and cor-
rode metal parts.
• Exposed parts should be coated with a thick layer of grease for lubrication and protection.
End of season or prolonged storage:
• Spreader should be washed and dried thoroughly.
• Examine the spreader for any damaged or worn parts. Replace only with OEM parts to prevent voiding
warranty.
• Check for corrosion on painted parts. It is advisable to remove any loose rust, prime and paint these parts
to avoid further corrosion.
• All exposed moving parts should be coated with grease.
• Store the spreader in a clean and dry location. If shelter is not possible, the spreader should be covered
from the elements.