Venture Products Ventrac HE302 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Power Bucket
VENTRAC.COM
Revised 04/12/23
09.10067 Rev. 05
Original Operator’s Manual
HE302 / HE482

2
To the Owner

If you need to contact an authorized Ventrac dealer for information on servicing your product, al-
ways provide the product model and serial numbers.
Please ll in the following information for future reference. See the picture(s) below to nd the loca-
tion of the identication numbers. Record them in the spaces provided.
Date of Purchase:
Dealer:
Dealer Address:
Dealer Phone Number:
Dealer Fax Number:
Model # (A): __________________________________
Serial # (B):____________________________________
Venture Products Inc. reserves the right to make chang-
es in design or specications without obligation to make
like changes on previously manufactured products.
500 Venture Drive
Orrville, OH 44667
www.ventrac.com
View all manuals
Visit ventrac.com/manuals for the
latest version of this operator’s
manual.
A downloadable parts manual is also
available.
A
B

TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
 
Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Using Your Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Manual Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
 
General Safety Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Training Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Operation Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Keep Riders O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Operating On Slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Roadway Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Truck Or Trailer Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Fuel Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Hydraulic Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
 
Primary SDLA Control Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Secondary SDLA Control Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Dual Front Hydraulic Auxiliary Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
 
Daily Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Attaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Detaching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Moving Loose or Soft Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Smoothing and Leveling Loose Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Brush and Log Removal with the Optional Grapple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
 
Cleaning and General Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Lubrication Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Optional Power Bucket Teeth Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Removing the Power Bucket Teeth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Optional Grapple Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Removal and Storage of the Grapple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Maintenance Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
 
HE302 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
HE482 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Power Bucket Angle and Ground Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Introduction - 4
INTRODUCTION
Accessories
Item Description Part Number
Power Bucket Teeth Kit (HE302 / HE482) 70.8124
Power Bucket Grapple Kit* (HE482 only) 70.8123
Power Bucket Extension Kit* (HE482 only) 70.8159
*The bucket extension kit and the grapple kit cannot be installed on the bucket at the same time.
Product Description
The Ventrac power bucket is designed solely for the purposes of digging, scooping, and transporting materials
such as soil, mulch, sand, and gravel.
The power bucket is hydraulically controlled, allowing for smooth, eortless operation. The power bucket is
designed to sit upright after detachment, with the lift arms in the proper position for reattachment.
If the power bucket is used on a power unit equipped with weight transfer, increasing the weight transfer set-
ting on the power unit will increase the lifting capacity of the power bucket.
Optional teeth can be mounted on the power bucket’s cutting edge to help break up and loosen compacted soil.
An optional extension kit can be mounted on the power bucket to increase the bucket capacity (volume) when
using for lighter materials such as mulch.
An optional grapple kit^can be mounted on the power bucket to allow the power bucket to pinch and carry
logs, brush, or debris.
^The optional grapple kit requires the power unit to be equipped with dual hydraulic auxiliary couplers.
Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual?
This manual has been created to help you gain the important knowledge of what is needed to safely operate and
maintain your machine, and to avoid injury and product damage. It is divided into chapters for convenient refer-
ence of the appropriate information.
You must read and understand the operator’s manual for each piece of Ventrac equipment you own. Read-
ing the operator’s manual will help you become familiar with each specic piece of equipment. If this manual
becomes damaged or unreadable, it should be replaced immediately. Contact your local Ventrac dealer for a
replacement.
When using a Ventrac attachment, be sure to read and follow the safety and operating instructions of both the
power unit and the attachment being used to ensure the safest operation possible.
The information in this manual provides the operator with the safest procedures to operate the machine while
getting the maximum use out of the unit. Failure to follow the safety precautions listed in this manual may
result in personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.
Venture Products Inc. is pleased to provide you with your new
Ventrac power bucket! We hope that Ventrac equipment will pro-
vide you with a ONE Tractor Solution.
Please visit our website, or contact your authorized Ventrac
dealer for a complete list of items available for your new power
bucket.

INTRODUCTION
Introduction - 5
Using Your Manual
This manual identies potential hazards and safety
concerns to help you, as well as others, avoid person-
al injury and/or damage to the equipment.
Safety should always be the rst priority when work-
ing on or operating equipment. Accidents are more
likely to occur when proper operating procedures are
not followed or inexperienced operators are involved.
SYMBOL DEFINITIONS
This symbol identies potential health and
safety hazards. It marks safety precau-
tions. Your safety and the safety of others is
involved.
There are three signal words that describe the level of
safety concern: Danger, Warning, and Caution.
SIGNAL WORD DEFINITIONS
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This
signal word is limited to the most extreme cases.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury
and/or property damage. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
This manual also uses two words to highlight informa-
tion. ATTENTION calls attention to special mechanical
information to prevent equipment damage and/or best
practices for equipment service and care.
NOTE emphasizes general information that is worthy
of special attention.
Note: Right-Hand and Left-Hand orientations may be
referred to at dierent places throughout this manual.
Right-Hand and Left-Hand is determined as if facing
forward from the operator station.
Manual Glossary
Power Unit A Ventrac tractor or other Ventrac engine powered device that may be operated by itself or with
an attachment or accessory.
Attachment A piece of Ventrac equipment that requires a Power Unit for operation.
Accessory A device that attaches to a Power Unit or Attachment to extend its capabilities.
Machine Describes any “Attachment” or “Accessory” that is used in conjunction with a power unit.

Safety - 6
SAFETY
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
Training Required
• The owner of this machine is solely responsible for properly training the operators.
• The owner/operator is solely responsible for the operation of this machine and for the prevention of ac-
cidents or injuries occurring to him/herself, other people, or property.
• Do not allow operation or service by children or untrained personnel. Local regulations may restrict the
age of the operator.
• Before operating this machine, read the operator’s manual and understand its contents.
• If the operator of the machine cannot understand this manual, then it is the responsibility of this machine’s
owner to fully explain the material within this manual to the operator.
• Learn and understand the use of all the controls.
• Know how to stop the power unit and the attachments quickly in the event of an emergency.
Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• The owner is responsible for ensuring that all the operators use the proper PPE while operating the ma-
chine. Whenever you use the machine, use the following PPE:
• Certied eye protection and hearing protection.
• Closed toe, slip resistant footwear.
• Long pants or trousers.
• A dust mask for dusty conditions.
• Additional PPE may be required. Refer to the product safety procedures for any additional requirements.
Operation Safety
• Secure long hair and loose clothing. Do not wear jewelry.
• Inspect the machine before operation. Repair or replace any damaged, worn, or missing parts. Be sure the
guards and shields are in proper working condition and are secured in place. Make any necessary adjust-
ments before operating the machine.
• Some pictures in this manual may show shields or covers opened or removed in order to clearly illustrate the
instructions. Under no circumstance should the machine be operated without these devices in place.
• Alterations or modications to this machine can reduce safety and could cause damage to the machine. Do
not alter the safety devices or operate with the shields or covers removed.
• Before each use, verify that all the controls function properly and inspect all the safety devices. Do not op-
erate if the controls or safety devices are not in proper working condition.
• Check the parking brake function before operating. Repair or adjust the parking brake if necessary.
• Observe and follow all of the safety decals.
• All the controls are to be operated from the operator’s station only.
• Always wear a seat belt if the machine has a roll cage/bar installed and in the upright position.

SAFETY
Safety - 7
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Ensure the attachment or accessory is locked or fastened securely to the power unit before operating.
• Ensure that all bystanders are clear of the power unit and the attachment before operating. Stop the ma-
chine if someone enters your work area.
• Always be alert to what is happening around you, but do not lose focus on the task you are performing.
Always look in the direction the machine is moving.
• Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a clear path.
• If you hit an object, stop and inspect the machine. Make any necessary repairs before operating the ma-
chine again.
• Stop operation immediately at any sign of equipment failure. An unusual noise can be a warning of equipment
failure or a sign that maintenance is required. Make any necessary repairs before operating the machine again.
• If equipped with a high/low range feature, never shift between high and low range while on a slope. Always
move the machine to level ground and engage the parking brake before shifting range.
• Do not leave the machine unattended while it is running.
• Always park the machine on level ground.
• Always shut o the engine when connecting the attachment drive belt to the power unit.
• Never leave the operator’s station without lowering the attachment to the ground, engaging the parking
brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to a
complete stop before dismounting.
• Never leave the machine unattended without lowering the attachment to the ground, engaging the park-
ing brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key.
• Only operate in well-lit conditions.
• Do not operate when there is a risk of lightning.
• Never direct the discharge of any attachment in the direction of people, buildings, animals, vehicles, or
other objects of value.
• Never discharge material against a wall or obstruction. The material may ricochet back toward the operator.
• Use extra caution when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vi-
sion.
• Do not run the engine in a building without adequate ventilation.
• Do not touch the engine or the muer while the engine is running or immediately after stopping the en-
gine. These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speeds may increase the hazard of personal injury.
• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass, leaves,
excessive grease, and other ammable materials.
• Clear the working area of objects that might be hit or thrown from the machine.

SAFETY
Safety - 8
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Keep people and pets out of the working area.
• Know the work area well before operation. Do not operate where traction or stability is questionable.
• Reduce speed when you are operating over rough ground.
• Equipment can cause serious injury and/or death when improperly used. Before operating, know and un-
derstand the operation and safety of the power unit and the attachment being used.
• Do not operate the machine if you are not in good physical and mental health, if you will be distracted by
personal devices, or if you are under the inuence of any substance which might impair your decisions,
dexterity, or judgment.
• Children are attracted to machine activity. Be aware of children and do not allow them in the work area.
Turn o the machine if a child enters the work area.

• Only allow the operator on the power unit. Keep riders o.
• Never allow riders on any attachment or accessory.
Operating On Slopes
• Slopes can cause loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Be familiar
with the emergency parking brake, along with the power unit controls and their functions.
• If the power unit is equipped with a fold down roll bar, it must be locked in the upright position when operating
on any slope.
• Use low range (if equipped) when operating on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
• Do not stop or start suddenly when operating on slopes.
• Never shift between high and low range while on a slope. Always move the power unit to level ground and
engage the parking brake before shifting range or placing the power unit in neutral.
• Variables such as wet surfaces and loose ground will reduce the degree of safety. Do not drive where the
machine could lose traction or tip over.
• Keep alert for hidden hazards in the terrain.
• Stay away from drop-os, ditches, and embankments.
• Sharp turns should be avoided when operating on slopes.
• Pulling loads on hills decreases safety. It is the responsibility of the owner/operator to determine loads that
can safely be controlled on slopes.
• Transport the machine with the attachment lowered or close to the ground to improve stability.
• While operating on slopes, drive in an up and down direction whenever possible. If turning is necessary
while driving across slopes, reduce your speed and turn slowly in the downhill direction.
• Ensure a sucient supply of fuel for continuous operation. A minimum of one-half tank of fuel is recommended.

SAFETY
Safety - 9
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
Roadway Safety
• Operate with safety lights when operating on or near roadways.
• Obey all state and local laws concerning operation on roadways.
• Slow down and be careful of trac when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop before crossing roads
or sidewalks. Use care when approaching areas or objects that may obscure vision.
• If there is any doubt of safety conditions, discontinue the machine operation until a time when the opera-
tion can be performed safely.
• When operating near or on roadways, have a Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem clearly displayed.
Truck Or Trailer Transport
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a truck or trailer.
• Use full width ramps for loading the machine into a truck or trailer.
• The parking brake is not sucient to lock the machine during transport. Always secure the power unit and/
or attachment to the transporting vehicle securely using straps, chains, cables, or ropes. Both the front and
rear straps should be directed down and outward from the machine.
• Shut o the fuel supply to the power unit during transport on a truck or trailer.
• If equipped, turn the battery disconnect switch to the O position to shut o electrical power.
Maintenance
• Keep the safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from the safety decals and instructional labels.
• If any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.
• When new components are installed, be sure that the current safety decals are axed to the replacement
components.
• If any component requires replacement, use only original Ventrac replacement parts.
• Always turn the battery disconnect to the O position or disconnect the battery before performing any re-
pairs. Disconnect the negative terminal rst and the positive terminal last. Reconnect the positive terminal
rst and the negative terminal last.
• Keep all bolts, nuts, screws, and other fasteners properly tightened.
• Always lower the attachment to the ground, engage the parking brake, shut o the engine, and remove the
ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop before cleaning, inspecting, adjust-
ing, or repairing.
• If the power unit, attachment, or accessory requires repairs or adjustments not instructed in the operator’s
manual, the power unit, attachment, or accessory must be taken to an authorized Ventrac dealer for service.
• Never perform maintenance on the power unit and/or attachment if someone is in the operator’s station.
• Always use protective glasses when handling the battery.

SAFETY
Safety - 10
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Check the fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.
• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass, leaves,
and excess grease.
• Do not touch the engine, the muer, or other exhaust components while the engine is running or immedi-
ately after stopping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing and do not store near an open ame.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating engine at excessive
speeds may increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Springs may contain stored energy. Use caution when disengaging or removing springs and/or spring
loaded components.
• An obstruction or blockage in a drive system or moving/rotating parts may cause a buildup of stored en-
ergy. When the obstruction or blockage is removed, the drive system or moving/rotating parts may move
suddenly. Do not attempt to remove an obstruction or blockage with your hands. Keep your hands, feet,
and clothing away from all power-driven parts.
Fuel Safety
• To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
ammable and the vapors are explosive.
• Do not refuel the machine while smoking or at a location near ames or sparks.
• Always refuel the machine outdoors.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container indoors where the fumes or fuel can reach an open ame,
spark, or pilot light.
• Only store fuel in an approved container. Keep out of the reach of children.
• Never ll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the containers
on the ground away from your vehicle before lling.
• Remove the machine from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, refuel the
machine using a portable container, rather than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.
• Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
• Never remove the fuel cap while on a slope. Only remove the fuel cap when parked on a level surface.
• Replace the fuel tank cap and the container cap securely.
• Do not overll the fuel tank. Only ll to the bottom of the fuel neck, do not ll the fuel neck full. Overlling
of the fuel tank could result in engine ooding, fuel leakage from the tank, and/or damage to the emissions
control system.
• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the power unit away from the fuel spill and avoid
creating any source of ignition until the fuel vapors have dissipated.

SAFETY
Safety - 11
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained outdoors into an approved container.
• Check the fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.
• The fuel system is equipped with a shut-o valve. Shut o the fuel when transporting the machine to and
from the job, when parking the machine indoors, or when servicing the fuel system.
Hydraulic Safety
• Make sure the hydraulic connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and tubes are in good condition. Re-
pair any leaks and replace any damaged or deteriorated hoses or tubes before starting the machine.
• Hydraulic leaks can occur under high pressure. Hydraulic leaks require special care and attention.
• Use a piece of cardboard and a magnifying glass to locate suspected hydraulic leaks.
• Keep your body and hands away from pinhole leaks or nozzles that eject high pressure hydraulic uid. Hy-
draulic uid escaping under high pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury, leading to severe
complications and/or secondary infections if left untreated. If hydraulic uid is injected into the skin, seek
immediate medical attention no matter how minor the injury appears.
• The hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs on the hydrau-
lic system, remove any attachments, engage the parking brake, disengage the weight transfer system (if
equipped), shut o the engine, and remove the ignition key. To relieve pressure on the auxiliary hydraulic
system, shut o the power unit engine and move the hydraulic control lever left and right before disconnect-
ing the auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers.

SAFETY
Safety - 12
HE302 / HE482 Safety Procedures
• The attachment hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs
on the hydraulic system, the attachment’s auxiliary hydraulic hoses must be disconnected from the power
unit. Lower the attachment to the ground, shut o power unit engine, move the secondary SDLA lever left
and right to relieve auxiliary hydraulic pressure, and disconnect the auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers.
• Use very slow ground speeds when digging or moving materials. If the power bucket engages a lodged
rock or other object with the machine moving at a fast speed, a sudden deceleration of the machine could
cause injury to the operator and/or damage to the equipment.
• To balance the power unit and keep all the wheels securely on the ground while using the power bucket,
adequate rear ballast or an appropriate implement mounted on a 3-point hitch is necessary. If you are us-
ing the power bucket on an optional 3n1 attachment for the rear 3-point hitch, adequate front ballast or an
appropriate attachment mounted on the front hitch is necessary.

SAFETY
Safety - 13
Safety Decals
The following safety decals must be maintained on your attachment.
Keep all safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from safety decals and instructional labels. If
any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.
When new components are installed, be sure that current safety decals are axed to the replacement compo-
nents.
Decal Description Part Number Quantity
A Pinching or Crushing Hazard 00.0620 1
B High Pressure Fluid Hazard 00.0621 1
C Read Operator’s Manual 00.0619 1
1. Pinching or crushing hazard.
1
A
1. High pressure uid hazard - keep your body and
hands away from suspected hydraulic leaks.
2. Wear eye protection when inspecting the hydrau-
lic system for leaks.
1
B
2
1. Warning - Read the operator’s manual.
1
C
A BC

Operation - 14
Primary SDLA Control Lever
The primary SDLA control lever* controls the rais-
ing and lowering of the power bucket. Pull the
control lever to the left to raise the power bucket.
Push the control lever to the right to lower the
power bucket. To place the bucket in oat, push
the control lever to the right until the oat detent
locks the control lever in place.
Secondary SDLA Control Lever
The secondary SDLA control lever* controls the
rotation of the bucket. Pull the control lever to
the left to roll the bucket back for carrying mate-
rial. Push the control lever to the right to tip the
bucket forward and dump the load of material.
Dual Front Hydraulic Auxiliary Switch
The optional dual front hydraulic auxiliary
switch^ is used to select the function of the
secondary SDLA control lever when the power
bucket is equipped with an optional grapple kit.
The secondary SDLA control lever controls the
normal bucket functions until the dual front hy-
draulic auxiliary switch is depressed.
Press the dual front hydraulic auxiliary switch
and push the secondary SDLA control lever to
the right to open the grapple jaws. Press the
dual front hydraulic auxiliary switch and pull the
secondary SDLA control lever to the left to close
the grapple jaws. Release the button to return to
normal operation.
OPERATIONAL CONTROLS
*Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of power unit controls.
^The dual front hydraulic auxiliary switch is required to operate a power
bucket that is equipped with an optional grapple kit.

Operation - 15
GENERAL OPERATION
Daily Inspection
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake, shut o the pow-
er unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure
that all moving parts have come to a complete stop
before inspecting the components, or attempting
any repair or adjustment.
1. Park the machine on a level surface, with the en-
gine shut o and all uids cold.
2. Perform a visual inspection of both the power
unit and the attachment. Look for loose or miss-
ing hardware, damaged components, or signs of
wear.
3. Inspect the hydraulic hoses and the hydraulic t-
tings to ensure tight, leak free connections.
Attaching
1. Drive the power unit slowly forward into the hitch
arms of the attachment. Align the lift arms of the
power unit with the attachment hitch arms by
raising or lowering the front hitch and complete
the engagement.
A
B
2. Once completely
engaged, move the
front hitch latch
lever* to the locked
position. The latch
(A) must lock over
the attachment’s
hitch arm pin (B).
3. Engage the parking
brake* and shut o
the engine.
4. Wipe the hose ends clean and connect to the power
unit’s hydraulic quick couplers. If equipped, connect
the hoses and the quick couplers so the colored
indicators are paired together (red to red, etc.).
5. Add ballast to the rear of the power unit to ensure
proper balance and stability with a loaded bucket.
4000 Series: Install four Ventrac weights on the rear
hitch weight bar or three Ventrac weights on the rear
3-point hitch (if equipped).
3000 Series: Install two Ventrac weights onto the option-
al rear weight bracket. Rear weight brackets are avail-
able for all 3000 series power units.
Detaching
1. Park the power unit on a level surface and engage
the parking brake.*
2. Disengage the power unit’s weight transfer.
3. Lower the attachment to the ground.
4. Shut o the power unit engine.
5. Disconnect the hydraulic quick couplers from the
power unit and store the hoses looped over the
bucket. The optional grapple kit has hose end
storage holes in the right mounting bracket.
6. Disengage the front hitch locking lever.*
7. Restart the power unit and slowly back away from
the attachment. A side to side movement of the
steering wheel may aid in disengagement.
8. 3000 series: remove the rear weights from the
rear weight brackets.
Moving Loose or Soft Materials
If the power unit is equipped with 2-speed transaxles,
shift the power unit into low range.
Lower the front hitch and rotate the bucket to posi-
tion the cutting edge at the desired level (usually
near the ground). If scooping material directly o the
ground, you may want to start with the primary SDLA
lever in the oat position to allow the bucket to follow
the surface contour. NOTE: in order for the bucket to
oat properly, weight transfer must be disengaged.
Tilt the front of the bucket downward very slightly to
keep the heel of the bucket from dragging the ground.
Drive forward slowly into the material. Do not use
high speed to ram a pile of material.
WARNING
Sudden deceleration caused by large amounts of
material or hidden objects may cause injury to the
operator and/or damage to the machine.
Do not use high speed to ram the material.
*Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of power unit controls.

GENERAL OPERATION
Operation - 16
For scraping a hard surface, use a bit of down pres-
sure on the cutting edge by taking the primary SDLA
lever out of the oat position and slightly lowering
the bucket. NOTE: this will take some weight o the
power unit’s front axle, reducing the power unit’s
steering ability.
WARNING
Lifting the front tires o the ground will cause the
steering ability to be lost or greatly reduced.
Do not lift the front tires o the ground when apply-
ing down pressure.
Continue to ll the bucket by driving forward slowly
while beginning to raise the bucket. To complete the
ll, roll the bucket back and lift the bucket.
If your forward motion stalls while attempting to take
a large scoop of material, stop or slightly reverse the
power unit to reduce penetration force on the bucket,
then take a smaller scoop of material.
The power unit’s weight transfer system (if equipped)
can be engaged to increase the lifting and digging ca-
pacity when required. NOTE: the oat capability of the
front hitch will not work in this mode.
While hauling the loaded material to another location,
use speeds that are safe for the terrain and surface
conditions.
Optional teeth can be installed on the cutting edge.
The teeth can help penetrate and break up hard or
compacted material.
Smoothing and Leveling Loose Materials
For smoothing or leveling while moving forward, tilt
the front of the bucket down 0-15 degrees.
For smoothing or leveling while moving in reverse, tilt
the bucket down 30-45 degrees. The best smoothing
results are usually obtained when pulling a relatively
small amount of material in reverse.
Brush and Log Removal with the Optional
Grapple
WARNING
Overloading the bucket and grapple can compro-
mise the machine stability or operator safety.
If the load aects the machine stability, reduce the
size of the load before continuing operation.
Open the grapple jaws, lower and/or tilt the bucket
until the cutting edge is below the log or brush, and
drive forward slowly. When the log or brush is posi-
tioned in the bucket, close the grapple jaws, pull the
secondary SDLA lever to the left while cycling the
button to alternately roll the bucket back and apply
additional clamping force on the load, and lift the
bucket. The grapple jaws will hold the log or brush in
place while transporting to another location.
While hauling the loaded material to another location,
use speeds that are safe for the terrain and surface
conditions. Be aware of the width of the log or brush
you are transporting and make sure your travel path is
wide enough to accommodate your load.
When you reach the desired location, tip the bucket
forward and open the grapple jaws to release the log
or brush.

Service - 17
SERVICE
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake, shut o the pow-
er unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure
that all moving parts have come to a complete stop
before inspecting the components, or attempting
any repair or adjustment.
ATTENTION
If any component requires replacement, use only
original Ventrac replacement parts.
Cleaning and General Maintenance
For best results, and to maintain the nish of the power
bucket, clean or wash the power bucket after each use
to remove dirt, mud, stones, mulch, or other debris.
Lubrication Locations
Lubrication is required at the following locations using
a lithium complex NLGI #2 grease.
Wipe the grease ttings clean before applying grease
to the grease ttings.
Refer to the maintenance schedule for service inter-
vals and the amount of grease.
Cylinder Ends & Bucket Pivot (Right & Left Sides)
Cylinder Ends & Bushings (Optional Grapple)
Storage
Preparing the Attachment for Storage
1. Clean the attachment to remove accumulated dirt,
mud, stones, mulch, or other debris.
2. Inspect for loose or missing hardware, damaged
components, or signs of wear. Repair or replace
any damaged or worn components.
3. Inspect the hydraulic hoses and ttings to ensure
tight, leak free connections.
4. Inspect the safety decals. Replace any decals that
are faded, illegible, or missing.
5. Apply grease to all grease points and wipe o any
excess grease.
6. Inspect the painted components for chips,
scratches, or rust. Clean and touch up the sur-
faces as needed.
Removing the Attachment from Storage
1. Clean the attachment to remove any accumulated
dust or debris.
2. Inspect the attachment as instructed in the Daily
Inspection section of this manual.
3. Test the attachment to ensure that all the compo-
nents are working properly.

SERVICE
Service - 18
Optional Power Bucket Teeth Installation
1. Park the power unit and power bucket on a level
surface and raise the power bucket high enough
to place blocks underneath.
2. Place 10 cm (4 inch) blocks or other supports un-
der the power bucket and lower the bucket until it
is resting on the blocks.
3. Engage the parking brake, shut o the engine,
and remove the ignition key.
4. Starting at one side of the power bucket, install
the sets of teeth (A) onto the front cutting edge of
the power bucket.
5.
A
Secure each set of teeth to the power bucket us-
ing two 3/8 x 1-1/4 inch carriage bolts inserted up
through the tooth and bucket. Secure with two
ange nuts and torque to 42 Nm (31 ft-lbs).
Removing the Power Bucket Teeth
1. Park the power unit and power bucket on a level
surface and raise the power bucket high enough
to place blocks underneath.
2. Place 10 cm (4 inch) blocks or other supports un-
der the power bucket and lower the bucket until it
is resting on the blocks.
3. Engage the parking brake, shut o the engine,
and remove the ignition key.
4. Remove the carriage bolts and ange nuts and
remove the teeth from the front edge of the
power bucket.
Optional Grapple Installation
1. Place the power bucket on a level surface.
2. With the help of an assistant, lift the grapple as-
sembly into place with the grapple frame brackets
(highlighted green) inside the right and left sides
of the bucket.
3. Install two 1/2 x 1-1/2 inch carriage bolts through
both the right and left grapple frame brackets and
the bucket sides and fasten with 1/2 inch nylon
locking ange nuts. Torque to 102 Nm (75 ft-lbs).

SERVICE
Service - 19
4. Install the hose/clamp mount bracket (highlighted
blue) onto the right hose clamp plate on the
power bucket frame. Match up the tabs and slots
on the brackets and lower into place. Install the
1/4 inch safety snap pin (highlighted green)
through the hole in the tab to secure the hose/
clamp mount bracket.
Removal and Storage of the Grapple
1. Clean the attachment to remove accumulated dirt,
mud, stones, mulch, or other debris.
2. Inspect for loose or missing hardware, damaged
components, or signs of wear. Repair or replace
any damaged or worn components.
3. Inspect the hydraulic hoses and ttings to ensure
tight, leak free connections.
4. Apply grease to all grease points and wipe o any
excess grease.
5. Remove the 1/4 inch safety snap pin from the hose/
clamp mount bracket and remove the hose/clamp
mount bracket from the power bucket frame.
A
B
6. Place the hydraulic
hose ends in the
storage holes (A) in
the right grapple
mounting bracket.
7. Remove the four 1/2
inch carriage bolts
and lock nuts that
fasten the grapple to
the bucket ends.
8. Place the bolts in the
storage holes (B) in
the right and left mounting brackets and secure
with the nuts.
9. Remove the grapple from the bucket and store in
a clean, dry location.

SERVICE
Service - 20
Maintenance Schedule
# of locations # of pumps As Needed Daily At 50 hours At 100 hours At 150 hours At 200 hours At 250 hours At 300 hours At 350 hours At 400 hours At 450 hours At 500 hours At 550 hours At 600 hours At 650 hours At 700 hours At 750 hours At 800 hours At 850 hours At 900 hours At 950 hours At 1,000 hours Yearly
Grease and Lubrication: See Lubrication Section
Cylinder End 4 ^ ** üüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüü
Bucket Pivot 2 ^ ** üüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüü
Cylinder End (Optional Grapple) 2 ^ ** üüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüü
Grapple Bushings (Spray Lube) 4 ** üüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüüü
Inspection
Inspect for Loose, Missing, or Worn Components ü
Inspect the Hydraulic Hoses and Fittings ü
Inspect the Safety Decals ü
^Grease until fresh grease is visible.
**Operation in severe conditions may require more frequent service intervals.
Maintenance Checklist
# of locations # of pumps As Needed Daily At 50 hours At 100 hours At 150 hours At 200 hours At 250 hours At 300 hours At 350 hours At 400 hours At 450 hours At 500 hours At 550 hours At 600 hours At 650 hours At 700 hours At 750 hours At 800 hours At 850 hours At 900 hours At 950 hours At 1,000 hours Yearly
Grease and Lubrication: See Lubrication Section
Cylinder End 4 ^ **
Bucket Pivot 2 ^ **
Cylinder End (Optional Grapple) 2 ^ **
Grapple Bushings (Spray Lube) 4 **
Inspection
Inspect for Loose, Missing, or Worn Components
Inspect the Hydraulic Hoses and Fittings
Inspect the Safety Decals
^Grease until fresh grease is visible.
**Operation in severe conditions may require more frequent service intervals.