Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/138965
WORLD FENCE NEWS • JULY 2013 • The centrifugal clutch on mechanical earth augers will automatically slip to protect the operator from serious injury if the unit encounters an object beneath the surface. Carefully ensure points and blades are tight and secure. Misalignment could cause the auger to vibrate excessively during use. First, identify all instruction and warning labels and be sure they're properly affixed to the unit. Anyone operating the machine must understand and be able to easily recognize these labels, which should be outlined and explained in the owner's manual. Be sure all kill switches and wires are undamaged, properly connected and functioning. To ensure the throttle is working properly, start the engine and let it run for a few seconds before releasing the throttle. If the engine is functioning correctly, it will return to idle. Always call the national one-call line at 811 at least 48 hours prior to digging to have underground utilities marked. No exceptions, no excuses! Next, check gearboxes and tighten loose bolts. Inspect both the leg pad and handle grips for tears, and replace them if necessary. Be sure there are no cracks or other damage to handles or the gearbox housing. Misalignment of the point and blades might cause the auger to vibrate excessively or "walk" during use, so make sure they are tight and secure. Be aware of the sharp edges so you don't get cut. If you're installing these for the first time, follow the instructions outlined in the owner's manual. If the engine has a torque tube, a safety feature that protects the operator by absorbing dangerous kickbacks, properly connect and secure it. The procedure might vary slightly from one model to another, so follow the steps as outlined in the owner's manual. On models that have an engine mounted on a separate, wheeled chassis, it's important to check the tire pressure. If there's a tire blowout or the unit isn't level during transport, it can tip over. That's both a safety and environmental hazard you want to avoid. Finally, check all the machine's fluids and change or refill if necessary. Remember that trying to change or refill fluids when the machine is hot could result in serious injuries from accidentally touching a hot engine or hydraulic power deck. It's best to change or refill fluids before you even start a job. If you have to do it mid-project, let the auger cool completely first. With the pre-operation checklist addressed, safety is now in the operator's or owner's hands. Do it right Now that you've gone through all the machine and operator safety precautions, it's important to also remember the safety of others. Always ensure bystanders are at least 10 feet away before starting the auger. Once the auger is running, position it perpendicular to the ground for the best possible control and optimal results. For even greater control, adjust the downward pressure based on the soil conditions. If the soil is soft, ease up slightly. If the ground is harder, apply a little more pressure, but not so much that rotation slows or stops. The most important tip to remember when using an earth auger is a variation of the common saying, "Lift with your legs, not with your back." With an earth auger, all the power should come from the legs to avoid serious back strain and injury. Once you've reached the desired depth, there's a proper procedure for safely removing the auger from the ground. Because it spins at such a high speed, never remove an auger from the ground completely while it's still running. The force from the revolution can easily cause loss of control, even for an experienced operator. When retracting the auger, release the throttle control and allow the auger to come to a complete stop. Once the auger has stopped turning, it can safely be removed from the hole. If the auger hits a tree root or unusually hard piece of earth and gets stuck, turn off the machine and disconnect the handle from the auger. Turn the auger counterclockwise to free the unit. In tougher soils, it might be necessary to use a pipe wrench and, if you still can't dislodge it, you might have to dig the auger out. Certain applications call for a greater depth than the auger can reach, so many manufacturers offer continued on page 70 2x THE RANGE. 1,000 Remote Capacity for Commercial and Parking Applications. The simple-to-program STAR receiver with Security+ 2.0™ technology delivers twice the range of traditional radio controls. That means less wait time at the gate and more satisfied customers. Contact your LiftMaster Sales Representative at 800-282-6225. STAR1000 Receiver LiftMaster.com/accessradio1 41