 | |
| Illustration 1 | g00353152 |
The turning radius and the large amount of contact area that is under the belts may cause the machine to displace more soil than a wheel type machine when you turn the machine. Several techniques can be used in order to minimize the amount of the soil that is disturbed while you turn the machine.
Maintain a distribution of weight that is even under the belts. A machine that is excessively unbalanced may disturb the soil while you turn the machine. The soil that is disturbed is a result of higher ground pressure at the heavier end of the machine. See Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Counterweight-Adjusting Machine Balance" for more information on maintaining a distribution of weight that is even.
Reduce speed while you turn the machine. The differential steering of this machine offers quick steering. Soft soil and crop debris will tend to be disturbed more by turns that are quick. Try using the programmable down shift of the transmission in order to reduce speed while you turn the machine. Quickly return to the previous gear after the turn is complete. See Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Transmission Control" for more information on the programmable downshift.
Observe the turning radius. This machine is capable of performing a spot left turn and a spot right turn. Many operators take advantage of this capability in order to significantly reduce turning time at the ends of the field. Turning time can be reduced particularly with implements that are mounted on the three-point hitch. The amount of soil that is displaced increases as the turning radius decreases. The trade for increased productivity can be more soil that is disturbed. Increasing the turning radius can help minimize the objectionable amount of soil that is disturbed. The operator may also keep the turning radius tight for increased productivity. In order to remove the ridges, complete the ends of the field last.
Install wider belts. Wider belts will reduce ground pressure. The wider belts will skim the ground while you are turning the machine. Also, special application belts can be used in order to minimize the amount of soil that is disturbed when you turn. See Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Belts" for more information.