Vitax Supaturf TXE 353 Standard User manual

TXE 353 & 606 OPERATOR MANUAL
Incorporating the TXE and TXE Pro.

2
VITAX LTD
Vitax Limited
Owen Street
Coalville
LE67 3DE
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Description of machine: TXE 606/353 LINE MARKER
Serial number: As per the invoice
Date of supply: As per invoice date
Relevant EC Council Directives: Machinery Directive 89/392/EEC and
Subsequent amendments.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive
89/336/EEC and subsequent amendments.
Issued by Andy Gurney on behalf of Vitax Ltd.
Signed Andy Gurney
Position of signatory Purchasing & Production Manager
Herewith we declare that the machinery described below is in accordance with the
relevant health and safety requirements of the EC Council Directives concerned with
the Machinery and Electromagnetic Compatibility. No alterations are to be made to the
machine without the prior consultation and approval of Vitax Limited otherwise this
Declaration may become invalid. This equipment must be commissioned, used and
maintained strictly in accordance with the operating and maintenance instructions
issued with the machine. Operators must be trained in accordance with the
recommendations given in the operating and maintenance instructions issued with the
machine.

3
INTRODUCTION
IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE USE
This is essential if you are to learn how to operate this equipment correctly. Failure to do so could result
in personal injury or equipment damage.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the equipment and should remain with the
machinery if sold on.
INTENDED USE/DISCLAIMER
The TXE is designed for use as a line marker. The intended use is for line marking of sports fields or
applying turf dyes using the spray boom accessory. Use in any other way is considered as contrary to the
intended use. The manufacturer accepts no liability for damage or injury resulting from misuse and these
risks must be borne solely by the user.
The TXE should only be operated, serviced and repaired by persons familiar with its characteristics and
acquainted with the relevant safety features (accident prevention).
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT LIST FOR TXE LINE MARKERS
Marking Liquids:
Supa Stadia AF, Supa Stadia ECO, Supa Stadia, Stadia, Stadia Colours, Sport, Briteline Plus, Supaturf
RTU and Greenit.
Cleaning Liquids:
SupaFLUSH and clean water.
Material Safety Data Sheets for all of the above products are available on request.

4
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCING THE TXE LINE MARKERS
Thank you for choosing the TXE battery operated spray line marking machine.
Your machine is the culmination of years of research and field trials. It provides a no compromise, build
quality, combined with a rugged but simple design that ensures ease of maintenance and ultimate
usability. All Supaturf machines are manufactured in England to a high, professional grade quality.
There are currently two models in the TXE range, both of which are available as either a Standard or Pro
specification.
The TXE 353 & 606 Standard
With all the controls mounted on the handlebars these robust, lightweight machines are exceptionally easy
to use and are capable of marking multiple pitches in one tank fill. The TXE machine is recognised as the
industry standard, and is an ideal choice for venues with multiple playing surfaces. The TXE has many
advantages:
Exceptionally easy to use with all controls mounted on the handlebars.
Has no engine noise or pollution.
Able to mark line widths from ½ inch to 5 inches (1.5cm to 13cm).
Has fold over handlebars for easy transportation and storage.
Simple and straightforward to maintain.
The TXE 353 & 606 Pro
In addition to the Standard specification, the TXE Pro has a factory fitted 2.5 litre flush tank, for easy
cleaning of the filter, pump, pipes and spray head for use between sites or jobs, and is operated using a
simple ‘on-off’ tap situated under the main tank. The advantages of this are:
No need to empty the tank between sites or jobs.
No danger of cross contamination into clean water.
Helps prevent the build-up of marking liquid residue.
Prolongs the working life of the machine.
Along with the flush tank the TXE Pro comes with a return to tank system, enabling the pressure at the
spray nozzle to be adjusted to suit the marking conditions or surfaces. This system also has the added
benefit of agitating the liquid in the main tank.
The TXE models
The TXE 353 is capable of operating for up to 2 hours (approx. 6 pitches) on a single overnight charge of
its battery. The TXE 606 offers an enhanced specification and will operate for up to 5 hours (approx. 15
pitches) from a single charge of the battery. Please note that these timings have been measured under test
conditions in our research and development facility using equipment operating at optimum performance.
With proper maintenance and operation you can expect to achieve these results throughout the life of your
battery.

5
SECTION 2 - MACHINE SET UP
Please refer to the back of this manual to see the illustrations of the TXE, and consult this when reading
this manual.
Your machine is supplied fully assembled and tested in its transit packaging. First it is advisable to check
that you have everything you need to start spraying. You should have received:
TXE machine (353 or 606 model)
Battery charger unit
Mixing bucket
Mixing paddle
100ml bottle of SupaFLUSH cleaner (in the basket filter of the tank)
Envelope containing this manual, and quality control check sheet
To remove the TXE from the box, two people are required to lift the machine from its packaging. All you
need to do to start spraying is to unfold the handlebars and secure them at the height required. There are
3 fixing positions available. Select the required position and tighten the hand wheel fastener. There is a
tank stop fitted to the handle bar that is secured with tape, the tape needs to be removed before operation.
There may well still be some charge in your battery, but it is advisable to charge the unit overnight before
proceeding. To do this, firstly re-connect the battery terminal to the battery, and then connect the charger
plug lead to the charging point at the back of the switch found on the machine handlebars.
Charge point located here
Your machine may have been supplied with crocodile clips with the charging unit. If this is the case then
the crocodile clips can be connected directly to the battery, taking care to connect the correct colour
crocodile clip to the corresponding colour terminal on the battery.
Ensure the connection is secure and plug the charger into a convenient mains socket. Turn on the mains
power and leave to charge, see the instructions supplied with the charger for further information on the
use of the charger. When the unit is fully charged, disconnect the charge unit from both the mains and the
handlebar plug. Activate the on/off switch located on the handlebar, and you should hear the pump
working.
WARNING:
Always charge the battery in a well-ventilated area. Never charge the battery in a closed container
(see battery care section on page 11 for further information).

6
SECTION 3 - USING THE TXE
Note: SECTION 9 gives training checklist for new operatives.
Once the machine has been set up as detailed in SECTION 2 you can mark out your pitch without delay.
First you will need to choose which marking liquid you wish to use (see SECTION 6). Dilute the liquid
to the desired concentration and thoroughly mix the marking liquid with the water using the bucket and
mixing paddle provided. Dilution rates are recommended for each product - please stay within these
guidelines.
WARNING:
To avoid splashing of line marking liquid into eyes, eye protection and gloves should be used whilst
handling and pouring line marking materials. In the event of spillage, refer to the Material Safety
Data Sheet for the line marking material being used.
Filling the Tank
Unscrew the tank cap; the pre-mixed marking liquid can then be poured into the tank to the desired level.
It is important to always fill the tank through the basket filter found in the top of the tank to stop any large
particles or foreign matter, such as grass from entering the spray system. The markings on the side of the
tank are a useful guide to estimate how much liquid is contained within the tank. The maximum capacity
of the tank is 25 litres.
As a guide, a typical football pitch with a 700 metre linear line would require approximately 7-8 litres of
diluted liquid for a single pass, walking at an average speed of 2 mph.
It may be necessary to purge any trapped air through the system.
This can be done in the following way: Once the tank has been
filled with the required amount of diluted marking liquid, switch
the machine on for 10 to 20 seconds (ensuring a suitable container
is available to capture the spray liquid if necessary). After this
time the spray should become solid with no air in the system and
the spray pattern should be steady with no ‘fluttering’ evident.
If not then there is still air in the system that will need to be purged
via the separation point on the 6mm tube, located near the spray arm.
(see image on the right).

7
Hold the connector between your fingers with one hand and push the tube into the connector with the
other, whilst holding the blue spring loaded plastic end back, pulling on the 6mm pipe at the same time.
This will disconnect the pump outlet tube from the spray arm. Switch on the machine and allow the liquid
to run out of the outlet tube. Again a suitable container should be used to catch the liquid. Once the air
has been exhausted (allow 15 to 20 seconds to ensure that all air has been expelled) switch off the
machine. Reconnect the pump outlet tube to the in-line 6mm connector. This is done by pushing the pipe
back into the connector.
Line Width Adjustment
The width of the line is adjusted by raising or lowering the spray arm until the desired width is obtained.
This is adjusted by unscrewing the hand wheel on the spray arm clamp and adjusting the height and spray
nozzle position as required.
It is recommended that the optimum marking position of the spray head is exactly between the front
wheels, and with the improved chassis arrangement on the TXE this is now achievable. It is also possible
to mark between a set of marking discs, for a sharper, more professional finish.

8
Marking your First Lines
IMPORTANT
Before commencing marking always ensure the tank lock found on the handle (shown in the diagrams
below) is in the lock position thus preventing accidental tipping of the tank. To familiarise yourself with
the operation of the machine it is worthwhile to use a suitable area where the operation can be rehearsed.
Tank lock in open position Tank lock in the closed position
WARNING:
If the tank lock is not used there is potential for the tank to tip whilst in use, causing possible harm
to the user and the contamination of the ground.
The spray nozzle is connected to an instant shut-off valve, which is activated by the pressure generated as
soon as the pump starts working. As soon as the switch is switched to the on position, a fan of liquid will
come from the spray nozzle and as soon as the switch is switched to the off position the fan will stop
instantly without drips.

9
The pitch to be lined out should be planned and possibly stringed out in advance and the TXE should be
adjusted to your satisfaction prior to use. When spraying, you should walk at a consistent pace and ensure
that you do not step on the line after it is sprayed, as this may result in a series of white footprints. This
might require a bit of practice.
Marking circles
The wheels of the TXE are configured so the front wheels are inset by about a half wheel width compared
to the back wheels, and with the simple addition of an in-line eyelet on the front wheel, marking centre
circles has been made easier.
When spraying lines at 90 degrees to recently sprayed lines it is advisable to stop the machine when its
wheels are just in front of the existing line and “walk” the wheels over the line to avoid the wheels
becoming contaminated with marking liquid that hasn’t dried. As a guide you could expect Supaturf line
marking liquids to dry within 15 to 20 minutes in direct hot sunshine but this could take considerably
longer subject to prevailing weather conditions. It is best to be cautious.
Note: When the machine is on site and not in use, do not leave the machine unattended. Ensure the
machine is not left on a slope, as it is not fitted with a parking brake.
WARNING:
If the machine is going to be lifted onto a vehicle after line marking for use at another site, the tank
should be emptied and the machine lifted by two people. To empty the tank, place the mixing
bucket provided at the rear of the machine and remove the tank lid. Tip the tank over backward
on its pivot point ensuring the marking liquid is emptied into the provided mixing bucket. The
mixed marking liquid can then be stored and re-used. Alternatively loading ramps may be used to
the ensure the operator's safety.

10
SECTION 4 - MAINTAINING YOUR TXE
It is vitally important that your TXE is thoroughly cleaned after every usage to ensure the long life of the
spraying components of the machine. It is recommended that Supaflush be used to further aid the cleaning
of the machine.
Always clean the TXE after use and follow these simple steps to ensure your machine is as clean as
possible.
1. Empty leftover product out of the tank.
2. Add approximately 4 litres of clean water into the tank.
3. Agitate the water in the tank by moving the tank up and down on its pivot.
4. Empty out the waste water.
5. Repeat steps 2, 3 and 4 with a further 4 litres of clean water.
6. If using Supaflush - Repeat step 2, this time using 2 litres of water and adding 50mls of Supaflush
to the water. Turn on the machine. This allows the Supaflush cleaner to wash through the pump
and spray nozzle assembly.
Note: In the event of a frost, do not leave water/marking fluid in the tank and pump. Always use
eye protection and gloves when using Supaflush cleaner. In the event of spillage, refer to the
Supaflush Material Safety Data Sheet. Dispose of waste water through the appropriate channels.
WARNING:
Solvent based material should never be used to wash the machine or tank, as this has the potential
to create an explosive environment.
Replacement of spray nozzle and/or filter
Spray nozzles and filters are consumable items and need to be cleaned or replaced on a regular basis. The
timing of this depends upon the amount of usage, but as a general guide, we would expect the average
user to clean the filter every month, or as necessary, and replace it every 3-6 months. Replace the spray
nozzle when the spray pattern is damaged. Spray nozzles should be replaced at least once every 3-6
months.
Replacement is a simple process. Look at the exploded picture below. The filter is the item marked F
and the spray nozzle is the item marked G. To access the nozzle, turn the nozzle cap (Hin the inset
picture) one half turn anti-clockwise. The filter, sealing washer and nozzle can now be removed and
replaced if required. Re-assembly is a simple reversal of this process.
Part code - 00350
F
G
H

11
Replacement of the in-line blade fuse
If, for whatever reason the pump draws too much power,
the in-line fuse will blow at 5 amps to protect the wiring
loom. The fuse is located in the wiring loom, attached to
the plastic shroud. Open the fuse cover and pull out the
fuse. Replace if necessary.
WARNING:
Always replace the fuse with the same rated 5-amp blade fuse ( part code –00251 ) . Check wiring
loom for signs of wiring insulation damage.
Battery Care
GENERAL BATTERY SAFETY MEASURES
Always charge the battery in a well-ventilated area. Never charge the battery in a closed container. Do not
attempt to open the battery casing. In the unlikely event of the battery leaking and sulphuric acid
electrolyte coming into contact with skin or clothing, wash off immediately with water.
Should the electrode come into contact with skin or clothing, wash off immediately with copious amounts
of water and consult a doctor. The battery should be regularly checked for cracks/damage to the casing
and if any damage is found, always replace the battery. Always dispose of used batteries through
appropriate collection or recycling channels.
The batteries on both the 353 and 606 are 12 volt batteries with the 606 machine using an 18 amp/hour
battery and the 353 using a 7.2 amp/hour battery ( see pg 20 for part codes ). This notation relates to the
amount of power the battery can store on a single charge, and the longer the battery will last when in use.
These batteries are kept at peak condition if they are recharged before they are fully discharged. It is not
a problem if fully discharged occasionally, but it should not be the norm if you want to gain the longest
life possible from the battery.
Note: Charge the battery at least every 3 months, even when not in use.
The TXE 353 and 606 battery units have an operational life of approximately 200 to 500 charge cycles.
Depending on your rate of usage, you will be able to approximate the life of your battery. Always put
your battery on charge until the charge complete light has lit on the charger unit, regardless of the level of
charge required.
Pump Care
The pump unit used on the TXE is exclusive to Supaturf machines and has been specifically designed for
this application. They will not require any internal maintenance as long as the machine is properly
cleaned after every use. The pumps are self-priming and will not be damaged by short periods of dry
running.
If you experience any problems with the pump, it is recommended that you return the unit to the factory
for inspection.

12
SECTION 5 - ACCESSORIES
The TXE has a range of accessories which include:
The Athletics marker
Part code - 02018
This attachment allows three lines to be
marked in one pass, making athletics tracks
a lot quicker and easier to mark out.
The Spray Boom
Part code - 02017
A 3-nozzle spray boom attachment for
spraying turf dyes, or line marking paint.
NOTE
WHEN PURCHASING EITHER OF THE ABOVE ITEMS A TXE 353/606 ATTACHMENT KIT
IS NEEDED FOR FITTING TO THE LINE MARKING MACHINE.
The TXE 353/606 attachment kit
Part code - 14500
This attachment kit is needed for
fitting either the spray boom or
athletics marker to a TXE 353 or
606.

13
Marking Disc attachment
Part code - 02066
This attachment can be adjusted for
width of line and creates extra sharp
edges to the applied line, a must
when trying to achieve the highest
quality line.
The TXE Pro kit
Part code - 14600
The TXE Pro kit is a 2.5 litre flush
tank, for easy cleaning of the filter,
pump, pipes and spray head for use
between sites or jobs, and is operated
using a simple ‘on-off’ tap that is sited
under the main tank.
Also contains a return to tank system,
enabling the pressure at the spray
nozzle to be adjusted to suit the
marking conditions or surfaces. This
system also has the added benefit of
agitating the liquid in the main tank.
Spare Parts
A full range of spares are available for the TXE. These are listed on page 20 and 21. When ordering,
please use the order code stated in the table. These order codes are illustrated on the pictures at the back
of this manual.

14
SECTION 6 –LINE MARKING LIQUIDS
Supaturf line marking liquids have been specially formulated to be applied through spray markers,
helping the end user to produce the longest lasting sports line there is to date.
The particle size of the suspended solids within marking liquids is critical to the effective running of the
pump and spray parts on TXE machines. For this reason it is recommended that only Supaturf line
marking liquids are used as they have been specially formulated to provide optimum performance.
Supaturf white spray marking liquids come in 7 grades:
Supastadia AF
Supastadia ECO
Supastadia
Stadia
Sport
Briteline Plus
Supaturf RTU
All liquids can be diluted to achieve the desired quality of line and for example, the Supastadia can be
diluted up to 8:1 with water, although a 4:1 rate is more typically used, whilst our super concentrated
Supastadia ECO can be diluted up to 20:1 for over marking.
Note: For best results when mixing, always add the line marking liquid to water.

15
SECTION 7 - TXE STORAGE
Before long-term storage of a TXE, the machine should be thoroughly cleaned both internally and
externally (for cleaning see SECTION 4, page 10 - Maintaining your TXE). After cleaning, the machine
should be checked for any frame damage or rusting. Any damaged part/s should be replaced. When your
TXE is not being used and is in storage over winter or summer, the battery must be fully charged before
storage. After every period of 3 months in storage, the battery should be fully charged again. This will
ensure maximum battery life.
Note: Always store your TXE in a dry damp-free environment.
SECTION 8 - TXE SPECIFICATIONS
Weights and dimensions
TXE 353
TXE 606
Standard
Specification
26 kg
28 kg
Pro Specification
33 kg
35 kg
Box dimensions 100cm x 60cm x 58cm.
Statistics
Tank capacity
25 litres
Pump specification
Shurflo SUK 0105
Electrical system
12 volt
TXE 606 battery
12 volt 18 amp hour cyclic use battery
TXE 353 battery
12 volt 7.2 amp hour cyclic use battery
Charger rated at
1.5 amp output
Chassis - tubing
Reinforced, triple galvanised (flo-coat)
tube
Machine length
80cm
Machine width
59cm
Machine height (handlebar upright)
104cm
Fuse rating
5 amp blade fuse

16
SECTION 9 –OPERATOR’S TRAINING CHECK LIST
Before using a TXE machine, refer to the section below to ensure the machine performance is optimised
and to check the user is competent with the machine.
Familiarisation
Working of the machine controls (section 3)
Understanding of the Material Safety Data Sheets for recommended products used with the TXE.
Operator's safety and caution information contained in this manual is understood.
Operational features (section 3).
How to switch the machine on and off.
How to raise and lower the spray nozzle assembly for desired line width.
How to safely mix line marking liquids (section 3).
How to mark your first lines.
How to fill and empty the tank - including lifting on and off a transport vehicle.
Cleaning procedures after use (section 4).
Recommended PPE that should be worn when cleaning a machine after use (section 4).
How to clean nozzles and filters after use.
Routine maintenance.
Battery condition check (see battery care section and safety instructions for battery handling).
Frame condition check.
For use with TXE Pro specification only
Understanding the use and operation of the flush tank.
Understanding the use and operation of the return to tank.

17

18
Trouble Shooting Guide Pictures
Figure 1
Figure 1 shows how to determine if the Shurflo pump motor is operational.
Disconnect the bullet connectors from the positive (red) terminal and the black wire to the negative
(black) terminal as per figure 1.
Figure 2
Figure 2 shows the location of the 5-amp blade fuse with the fuse cover
on. The 5-amp blade fuse is translucent and can be easily checked to
confirm whether the fuse has been damaged.
Figure 3
Figure 3 shows the TXE switch bracket removed and exposed bullet connectors.

19
Figure 4
Figure 4 shows the location of the bullet connectors leading from the handlebar to the wiring loom.
The bullet connectors have been sealed with heat shrink to prevent damage and corrosion from moisture.
Figure 5
Figure 5 shows the bullet connectors leading to the pump. These may be tucked under the pump.
The black wire goes to the blue wire on the loom, and the red wire goes to the green/yellow wire
on the loom.
Figure 6
Figure 6 shows the in-line 6mm tube connector used to disconnect the pump outlet pipe from the spray
arm assembly,

20