third coast equipment RA12 User manual

Revision 042122
www.thirdcoastequipment.com
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
VIBRATORY ROLLER
RA12

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To reduce the risk of injury, all operator and maintenance personnel must read and understand
these instructions before operating, changing accessories, or performing maintenance on Third
Coast Equipment rollers. All possible situations cannot be covered in these instructions. Care
must be exercised by everyone using, maintaining, or working near this equipment.

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1. FOREWORD 4
2. SAFETY INFORMATION 4
2.1. Operator Safety 5
2.2. Operator Safety While Using Internal Combustion Engines 6
2.3. Service Safety 6
2.4. Safety Labels 7
3. TECHNICAL DATA 8
3.1. Lubrication 9
4. OPERATION
4.1. Application 9
4.2. Recommended Fuel 9
4.3. Before Starting 9
4.4. Explanation of Operation Controls 10
4.5. To Start 11
4.6. Direction and Travel Speed 11
4.7. Vibration 11
4.8. Adjusting Water Sprinkler System 12
4.9. Articulation Joint Lock Arm 12
4.10. Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) 12
4.11. To Shut Down 12
4.12. Operation on Slopes 13
5. MAINTENANCE
5.1. Engine Maintenance 13
5.2. Maintenance Schedules 14
5.3. Fuel Filter 14
5.4. Engine Oil Drain 14
5.5. Engine Oil 14
5.6. Folding Scraper Bars 15
5.7. Grease Fittings 15
5.8. Hydraulic System Cleanliness 15
5.9. Hydraulic Oil Requirements 16
5.10. Hydraulic Oil Level 16
5.11. Hydraulic Oil Suction Filter 16
5.12. Changing Hydraulic Oil & Filter 16
5.13. Bleeding the Hydraulic System 17
5.14. Lifting Roller 17
5.15. Transporting Roller 17
5.16. Storage 17
5.17. Towing 18
5.18. Electrical Schematic 18
Table of Contents

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1. FOREWORD
This manual provides information and procedures associated with safe operation and
maintenance for this model. For your own safety and protection from injury, carefully read and
understand the safety instruction described in this manual.
Always keep this manual or a copy of it with the roller. This roller is built with user safety in mind;
however, it can present hazards if improperly operated and serviced. Follow operating instruction
carefully. If you have questions about operating or servicing this equipment, please contact your
local Third Coast Equipment Dealer. The information contained in this manual is based on the
roller in production at the time of publication. Third Coast Equipment reserves the right to change
any portion of this information without notice. All rights, especially copying and distribution rights
are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without written permission from Third Coast
Equipment. Any type of reproduction or distribution not authorized by Third Coast Equipment
represents an infringement of valid copyrights and will be prosecuted. We reserve the right to
make changes to our products and their technical modifications without notice.
2. SAFETY INFORMATION
This manual contains NOTE, DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION callouts which must be
followed to reduce the possibility of personal injury, damage to the equipment, or improper
service.
NOTE is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury
hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or
death.
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation, which if not avoided, DANGER will result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation, which if not avoided, WARNING could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation, which if not avoided, CAUTION could
result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION: Used without the safety alert symbol, CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result in roller or property damage.
Note: Contains additional information important to a procedure

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2.1 Operator Safety
Familiarity and proper training are required for the safe operation of equipment.
Equipment operated improperly or by untrained personnel can be dangerous. Read
the operating instructions contained in both this manual and the engine manual and
familiarize yourself with the location and proper use of all controls.
2.1.1 ALWAYS disengage and stow the locking bar for the articulated steering joint before
operating the roller. The roller cannot be steered when the locking bar is engaged.
2.1.2 ALWAYS check that all controls are functioning property immediately after start-up.
DO NOT operate the roller unless all controls function properly.
2.1.3 ALWAYS remain aware of changing positions and the movement of other equipment and
personnel on the job site.
2.1.4 ALWAYS remain seated with the seat belt fastened while operating the roller.
2.1.5 ALWAYS remain aware of changing surface conditions and use extra care when operating
over uneven ground, on hills, or over soft or coarse material. The roller could shift or slide
unexpectedly.
2.1.6 ALWAYS use caution when operating near the edges of pits, trenches, or platforms. Check
to be sure that the ground surface is stable enough to support the weight of the roller with the
operator and that there is no danger of the roller sliding, falling, or tipping.
2.1.7 ALWAYS wear protective clothing appropriate to the job site when operating equipment.
Goggles or safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety shoes.
2.1.8 ALWAYS keep hands, feet, and loose clothing away from moving parts of the roller.
2.1.9 ALWAYS read, understand, and follow procedures in the Operator’s Manual before
attempting to operate the equipment.
2.1.10 ALWAYS store the equipment properly when it is not being used. Equipment should be
stored in a clean, dry location out of the reach of children.
2.1.11 ALWAYS operate the roller with all safety devices and guards in place and in working
order.
2.1.12 NEVER allow anyone to operate this equipment without proper training. Individuals
operating equipment must be familiar with the manual and safety functions of this roller.
2.1.13 NEVER touch the engine or muffler while the engine is on or immediately after it has been
turned off. These areas get hot and may cause burns.

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2.1.14 NEVER use accessories or attachments that are not recommended by Third Coast
Equipment. Damage to equipment and injury to the user may result.
2.1.15 NEVER leave roller running unattended.
2.1.16 NEVER operate the roller with the fuel cap loose or missing.
2.2 Operator Safety While Using Internal Combustion Engines
DANGER
Internal combustion engines present special hazards during operation and fueling.
Read and follow the warning instructions in the engine owner’s manual and the
safety guidelines below. Failure to follow the warnings and safety guidelines could
result in severe injury or death.
2.2.1 DO NOT smoke while operating the roller.
2.2.2 DO NOT smoke while refueling the roller or during any other fuel handling operation.
2.2.3 DO NOT refuel a hot or running engine.
2.2.4 Do NOT refuel the engine near an open flame.
2.2.5 DO NOT spill fuel when refueling the engine. If fuel is spilled during refueling, clean the
surface immediately. Do not operate the roller if fuel or oil leaks exist.
2.2.6 DO NOT run the engine near open flames
2.2.7 DO NOT run the roller indoors or in an enclosed area such as deep trench unless adequate
ventilation is provided. Exhaust gas from the engine contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas;
exposure to carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and may lead to death.
2.2.8 ALWAYS refill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area.
2.2.9 ALWAYS replace the fuel tank cap after refueling.
2.2.10 ALWAYS keep the area around the muffler free of debris such as leaves, paper, etc. to
reduce risk of an accidental fire.
2.3 Service Safety
WARNING
Poorly maintained equipment can become a safety hazard! For the equipment to
operate safely and properly over a long period of time, periodic maintenance and
occasional repairs are necessary.
2.3.1 DO NOT attempt to clean or service the roller while it is running. Rotating parts can cause
severe injury.

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2.3.2 DO NOT use gasoline or other types of fuels or flammable solvents to clean parts,
especially in enclosed areas. Fumes from fuels and solvents can become explosive.
2.3.3 DO NOT modify the equipment without the express written approval of the manufacturer.
2.3.4 ALWAYS check all external fasteners at regular intervals.
2.3.5 ALWAYS keep the area around the muffler free of debris such as leaves, paper, cartons,
etc. A hot muffler could ignite the debris and start a fire.
2.3.6 ALWAYS replace worn or damaged components with spare parts recommended by Third
Coast Equipment.
2.3.7 ALWAYS keep the roller clean and all labels legible. Replace any missing or damaged
labels immediately and prior to operation. Labels provide important operating instructions and
warn of dangers and hazards.
2.3.8 ALWAYS switch off the power supply at the battery disconnect before adjusting or
maintaining the electrical equipment.
2.3.9 ALWAYS do Periodic Maintenance as recommended in the Operator’s Manual.
2.4 Safety Labels
Third Coast Equipment rollers use international pictorial labels where needed.
These labels are described below:
Ref.
Label
Meaning
A Roller Tie Down
B
Lifting Point
C
Hydraulic Tank
D
Hydraulic Oil Drain
E
Hydraulic Oil Reservoir Level
F Start / Ignition Switch Operation Label

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3. TECHNICAL DATA
RA12 Technical Specifications
Weight
RA12
Operating Weight
2740 lb
Performance Data
Drum Thickness
0.5 in
Vibration Frequency
4000 vpm
Centrifugal Force (front drum)
3825 lbf
Travel Speed with Vibration
4 mph
Gradeability Maximum
30%
Water Tank Capacity
18 gal
Engine
Engine Manufacturer
Honda
Vanguard
Engine Model
GX390
400
Cooling
air-cooled
air -cooled
Number of Cylinders
1
1
Output Power
13 hp
14 HP
Operating Speed
3600 rpm
3600 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
4.5 gal
4.5 gal
Dimensions
Overall Length
A
74.5 in
Overall Height
B
83.25 in
(89.5 in with beacon strobe)
Overall Width
C
37 in
Drum Width
D
31.5 in
Height ROPS Folded
E
57.5 in
Drum Diameter
F
22 in
Curb Clearance (Right)
14 in
Curb Clearance (Left)
15 in
Turning Radius (Outer)
124 in

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3.1 Lubrication
RA12
Engine Lubrication type
SAE 10W 30 Class SG, SF or SE rated
Hydraulic System type
Premium grade, anti-wear Hydraulic fluid 10W30
Vibration / Exciter
Alvania #2 or equivalent
Front and Rear Drum Drive
Alvania #2 or equivalent
Frame Articulation
Alvania #2 or equivalent
4. OPERATION
4.1 Application
This roller is designed as a lightweight roller to be used in the compaction of sublayer and finish
layers of asphalt on roads, driveways, parking lots, and other types of asphalt-covered surfaces.
Do not use this roller for any other purpose.
4.2 Recommended Fuel
Consult engine Owner’s Manual for complete fuel specifications.
4.3 Before Starting
Before starting the roller, check the following:
oEngine oil level. Hydraulic fluid level. Fuel level.
oFuel lines for leaks or cracks and replace if necessary.
oCondition of air cleaner / filter.
oProper function of all roller controls
oScraper bars - clean and properly adjusted
oEnsure the roller’s travel lever is placed in the neutral position
NOTE:
All fluid levels should be checked with the roller on a level surface.
Ensure that regular maintenance has been carried out.
Ensure that the driver’s platform is clean and dry. Operator’s platform can become slippery when
wet and may result in a fall or injury to the operator.
Always use the steps and handrails when climbing on and off the roller.

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4.4 Explanation of Operation Controls
Voltage
The voltage of roller is 12V. If the voltage display is less than 12V, check for proper function of
the battery and circuits.
Water On/Off Switch
Controls the start and stop of water sprinkler pump.
NOTE: Always stop the water sprinkler when roller is not in motion by moving the
Water On/Off Switch to the “Off” position. DO NOT operate the water sprinkler
pump dry as damage to the pump may occur.
Working Lights Switch
Controls the On/Off function of the working lights.
Parking Brake
Holds the roller in place during loading, transportation, or when parked on sloped surfaces. To
engage the parking brake, pull up on the parking brake lever. To release the parking brake, lower
the parking brake lever.
NOTE: It is recommended to always engage the parking brake when the machine is parked or
whenever there is not an operator present in the seat. Always release the parking brake prior to
attempting to move the roller. Failure to do so can result in damage to the brake system or
hydraulic component.
Travel Lever
Controls the forward / reverse travel direction and speed of the roller. Push forward to make the
roller travel forward. Pull the travel lever backward to make the roller travel in a reverse direction.
Vibration Control Button
The button located on the travel lever activates the roller’s vibration
frequency. Toggle the switch on or off to start and stop vibration.
NOTE: ALWAYS turn off the vibration prior to shutting down the machine.
Vibration may resume upon the roller start up if the vibration was not
turned off when last shut down.

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4.5 To Start
oSet the travel lever to the neutral position.
Note: The roller will not start unless the forward/reverse control is in the neutral position.
oIf starting the engine from cold, set the choke to the "CLOSED" position
•(If restarting a warm engine, the choke is usually not required.)
oSet the throttle lever to the first detent or “Starting” position
oTurn the ignition key past the “ON” position to engage the engine electric starter. Once the
engine fires, return the ignition key to the “ON” position
•NOTE: Do not crank the engine starter for more than 15 seconds at one time.
Longer cranking cycles could lead to engine starter damage.
oAs the engine warms, return the choke lever to the full-open position.
oAllow the engine to warm up for 3-5 minutes before operating the roller.
oAlways operate the roller at full engine throttle. Failure to do so may result in damage to the
roller hydraulic components.
4.6 Direction and Travel Speed
The forward / reverse lever controls the roller direction and travel speed. Prior to operating,
check the roller travel for drift (any movement of the roller while forward / reverse lever is in the
NEUTRAL position) and adjust as needed.
Roller travel speed is controlled by increasing or decreasing the distance the forward / reverse
lever is moved in the desired direction.
To ensure optimum roller performance, best possible compaction, and to avoid damage to roller
hydraulic components, always operate the roller at full engine throttle by moving the Throttle
Lever to the “FAST” position.
To stop roller travel, return the forward / reverse lever to the neutral position. If the roller
continues to drift, shift the forward / reverse lever slightly in the opposite direction to stop
movement, then return the lever to the neutral position. If roller drifting persists, the forward /
reverse lever may need to be adjusted. Set the parking brake by pulling up on the brake lever.
4.7 Vibration
To activate the roller vibration, toggle the Vibration Control Button “ON”. Toggle the Vibration
Control Button again to deactivate the roller vibration.
CAUTION: ALWAYS turn off roller vibration prior to shutting down the roller. If the roller has been
turned off with the vibration on, the vibration will resume once the roller is restarted.

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4.8 Adjusting Water Sprinkler System
The sprinkler adjustment control is located in the steering column housing. The
sprinkler system works intermittently (ON and OFF). The top dial adjusts the
sprinkler “ON” duration from 0.6 to 6 seconds. The bottom dial adjusts the sprinkler
“OFF” duration from 0.6 to 6 seconds.
4.9 Articulation Joint Lock Arm
A lock arm is provided above the articulation joint to prevent unsafe articulation when lifting or
transporting the roller. Once the lock arm is secured, the lock arm prevents the two halves from
swinging together.
WARNING
To avoid being pinched by roller halves, ALWAYS set the lock arm before lifting,
transporting, or conducting repairs to the roller. To set the lock arm, unpin it from the
holder and swing it out from its stored position. Place the forward end of the arm into the hole
provided in the front frame of the roller. Secure it in the position using the cotter pin provided.
4.10 Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS)
The roller is fitted with a Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) to protect the operator when the
roller is used on sloped surfaces.
The roller is typically delivered to the customer with the ROPS folded to facilitate transport.
WARNING: Before operating the roller, ALWAYS position the ROPS in the full
upright position.
Do not use the ROPS to lift the roller. Before each use, ensure the ROPS are
securely positioned in the full upright position. Monthly, inspect all ROPS hardware,
tighten any lose hardware, and replace any missing hardware. Ensure the ROPS frame is not
rusted, cracked, or damaged in any way. Repair any damage prior to operating the roller. If the
ROPS has been removed from the roller, it must be reinstalled before the roller is used
4.11 To Shut Down
oEnsure the roller vibration and water spray are turned OFF.
oPlace the Travel Lever into the Neutral position.
oEngage the Parking Brake
oSet the engine throttle to the Idle position and allow the engine to run for 2 to 3 minutes.
oTurn the Ignition Key to the “OFF” position.
CAUTION: Avoid parking the roller on a hill or an incline. If the roller must be parked on a hill,
engage the parking brake, and chock the drums to prevent the roller from moving.

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4.12 Operation on Slopes
WARNING
When operating on slopes or hills, special care must be taken to reduce the risk of
personal injury or damage to the equipment in the event of a roll over. Always
operate the roller up and down hills rather than from side to side. For safe operation and for
protection of the engine, continuous duty use should be restricted to front/rear slopes of 17
degree (30% grade) or less.
WARNING
NEVER operate roller on side slopes. The machine could roll over and cause
severe bodily harm or death, and extensive damage to the roller.
5. MAINTENANCE
5.1 Engine Maintenance
The chart below lists basic engine maintenance. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Operation
Manual for additional information on engine maintenance.
Honda
Daily before
starting
After first 20
hrs
Every 50 hrs
Every 100
hrs
Every 300
hrs
Check fuel level
●
Check engine oil level
●
Inspect air filter.
(Clean or Replace as
needed)
●*
Change engine oil and
filter
●●
Clean air cleaner
●*
Replace fuel filter
●**
*Service more frequently in dusty conditions.
** These items should be serviced by a certified engine dealer.
Vanguard
Daily before
starting
After first
20hrs
Every 50 hrs
Every 100
hrs
Every 300
hrs
Check fuel level
●
Check engine oil level
●
Change engine oil
●
●
Change oil filter
●
Clean air cleaner
●
Replace fuel filter
●

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5.2 Maintenance Schedules
RA12
Daily before
starting
Every 100 hrs
Every 600 hrs
Every 1200 hrs
Check external hardware
●
Check level of hydraulic fluid
●
Grease articulation joint
●
Grease rear drum drive
bearing
●
Change hydraulic system
return line filter
●
Check and adjust scraper
bars ●
Clean battery terminals
●
Change hydraulic oil
●
Periodically:
•Check for leaks around hydraulic hoses and connections
•Clean engine exterior, cooling fins, and blower housing
•Check electrical wiring and connections
New rollers:
•Change the engine oil per engine maintenance schedule
•Replace the hydraulic system filter after the first month or 100 hours of operation
5.3 Fuel Filter
Change the in-line fuel filter once per year. Check the fuel lines and fittings daily for cracks or
leaks. Replace as needed.
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Turn the engine off and allow the engine to cool before
replacing the fuel filter.
5.4 Engine Oil Drain
There is a convenience engine oil drain line located in the engine compartment basin for easy
and clean oil drainage.
5.5 Engine Oil
Change the engine oil per the engine service manual’s recommended maintenance schedule.
5.5.1 Drain the oil while the engine is still warm. To drain the oil:
Remove the oil drain line cap screw, and washer. Drain the oil into a suitable container.
Note: In the interests of environmental protection, place a plastic sheet and a container under the
roller to collect any liquid which drains off. Dispose of this liquid and drained engine oil in

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accordance with environmental protection legislation.
5.5.2 Re-insert the drain screw and washer and tighten the screw securely.
5.5.3 Fill the engine with the recommended oil to the upper limit mark on the dipstick. See engine
service manual for correct oil type and amount.
CAUTION
Burn hazard! Allow engine to cool prior to removing engine oil drain plug. Hot oil may
spurt out of the oil tank and can severely scald persons in the vicinity.
The muffler becomes hot during operation. Always allow engine exhaust manifold and
muffler to cool prior to servicing equipment. Do not touch the muffler while it is hot.
5.6 Folding Scraper Bars
Folding Scraper Bars, located in front of and behind each drum, are used to prevent dirt and
asphalt from sticking to and accumulating on the drum surface. These bars are spring applied
and will self-adjust as they wear.
5.7 Grease Fittings
Articulation Joint:
The articulated joint is equipped with grease fittings for lubrication.
To avoid being pinched by the roller halves, set the lock arm before greasing the
articulation joint.
5.8 Hydraulic System Cleanliness
Keeping the hydraulic oil clean is critical to the service life and longevity of the hydraulic system
and its components. Oil in the hydraulic system is used to lubricate hydraulic components as well
as transfer power. Premature component wear and failure can be avoided by keeping the
hydraulic system clean.
Typical contributors of hydraulic system contamination include:
•Usage of non-recommended or poor-quality hydraulic oil
•Hydraulic oil which has not been stored properly or contaminated during handling
•Hydraulic line or fitting leaks
•Introduction of dirt particles during system maintenance
•Mechanical component contaminants expelled in the system during operation

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To minimize hydraulic oil contamination:
•Clean hydraulic filler cap and hydraulic connections before removing or opening the lines
•Avoid opening the pumps, motors, or hose connections unless necessary
•Plug or cap all open hydraulic connections while servicing the system
•Clean containers, funnels, and spouts used to store and transfer the hydraulic oil
•Change the hydraulic filters and oils at the recommended service intervals
5.9 Hydraulic Oil Requirements
A quality petroleum-based, anti-wear hydraulic oil is recommended in the hydraulic system of this
roller. Quality anti-wear hydraulic oils contain special additives to reduce oxidation, prevent
foaming, and provide for good water separation. When selecting hydraulic oil for your roller, be
sure to specify anti-wear properties.
Avoid mixing different brands and grades of hydraulic oils.
When selecting a hydraulic oil be sure it matches the specified SAE viscosity rating and is
intended to be used as a hydraulic oil. See Technical Data-Lubrication.
5.10 Hydraulic Oil Level
A hydraulic oil right sight glass is located near the bottom left side of the roller below the engine
compartment.
Check that the hydraulic oil level is visible in the sight glass. If necessary, add oil through the filler
port inside the engine compartment. Use only clean hydraulic oil.
Clean the filler cap before removing it from the tank. Care should be taken to prevent smaller dirt
particles from entering the system.
If hydraulic oil continually needs to be added, inspect the hoses and connections for possible
leaks.
5.11 Hydraulic Oil Suction Filter
A hydraulic oil filter is located in the hydraulic tank and should be replaced every 1000 hours.
5.12 Changing Hydraulic Oil & Filter
All oils eventually thin out with use, reducing their lubricating ability. It is important to change the
hydraulic oil at specified intervals.
See Maintenance Schedule.
Remove the filter cap from the top of the hydraulic tank.
Remove the drain plug and allow the hydraulic fluid to drain.
Note: Dispose of all oil in and environmentally friendly manner.

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5.13 Bleeding the Hydraulic System (to remove air trapped in the system after maintenance)
Fill the hydraulic system with clean, unused hydraulic oil until visible in the sight glass. Run the
machine for several minutes including travel and vibration.
Check the hydraulic oil level and add oil as required. Repeat steps as necessary.
Note: If the drive pump chatters or operation is noisy, turn the roller off and check for air leaks in
the inlet line of the charge pump.
5.14 Lifting Roller
Lock the front and rear roller halves using the lock arm at the articulation joint.
Place one sling or chain to each of the (4) lifting eyes, specified by the pictured
symbol. Use slings or chains with a minimum length of 2 meters (6 feet) on each
leg connected to a central lifting device. Ensure that all lifting devices have
sufficient weight-bearing capacity.
WARNING: To avoid being pinched by the roller halves, set the lock arm before lifting
the roller for transport or repairs. Never use anything but the lifting eyes provided to
lift the roller, as severe damage to the roller can result.
5.15 Transporting Roller
WARNING: Never use anything but the designated tie down
points, specified by the pictured symbol, to tie down the roller as
severe damage can result.
Ensure tie downs are properly rated for towing the roller. Ensure tie downs are
secured to the transporting vehicle. Always engage the parking brake during transportation.
5.16 Storage
If the roller is to be stored for more than 30 days:
Drain the fuel tank and the water tank
Open the water valves and drain the water from the sprinkling system
Change the engine oil
Clean the entire roller and engine compartment
Remove any dirt from the cooling fins on the engine cylinders and on the blower housing
Set the articulation lock arm to secure the roller halves together
Remove the battery from the roller and charge it periodically
Cover the entire roller and store it in a dry, protected area

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5.17 Towing
Towing the roller should be avoided if possible and limited to emergency use. If towing is
necessary, do not tow the roller long distances or at speeds greater than 3-5 km/h (2-3 mph) as
damage to the drive motors may occur.
5.18 Electrical Schematic
1
Engine switch
6
Battery
11
Vibration Switch
16
Water Valve
2
Rectifier
7
Relay
12
Clutch
17
Voltmeter
3
Fuse
8
Oil transfer pump
13
Light switch
18
Timer
4
Starter Relay
9
Abrupt Stop Switch
14
Light
19
Charging Line
5
Starter
10
Fuel Solenoid Valve
15
Water Valve Switch
20
Relay Contact