Bush Hog Lawn Mower ATH 720 User Manual

®
BUSH HOG  
ATH/FTH  
Air Tunnel & Flat Deck  
Finishing Mowers  
Operator’s Manual  
Model ATH 720  
Air Tunnel  
Model FTH 600  
Flat Tunnel  
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ASSEMBLY OPERATION MAINTENANCE  
04/09 Rev.1  
$4.00  
90898  
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ATH / FTH FINISHING MOWER  
Operator’s Manual  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
SECTION/PARA  
PAGE  
SECTION/PARA  
PAGE  
IV MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10  
4-1 Maintenance Check List . . . . . . . . . .10  
4-2 Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10  
4-3 Belt Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11  
4-4 Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11  
4-5 Blade Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12  
4-6 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12  
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2  
Dealer Preparation Check List . . . . . . . . .3  
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4  
Federal Laws and Regulations . . . . . . . . .5  
INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION . .6  
1-1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6  
1-2 Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6  
I
II PREPARATION FOR USE . . . . . . . . . . . .7  
2-1 Attaching to Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7  
III OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . .9  
3-1 General Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9  
3-2 Cutting Height Adjustment . . . . . . . . . .9  
3-3 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9  
3-4 Transporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9  
V DEALER ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13  
5-1 Base Unit Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13  
Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15  
Torque Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16  
RETAIL CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY  
UNDER THE BUSH HOG WARRANTY  
It is the Retail Customer and/or Operator’s responsibility to read the Operator’s  
Manual, to operate, lubricate, maintain and store the product in accordance with all  
instructions and safety procedures. Failure of the operator to read the Operator’s  
Manual is a misuse of this equipment.  
It is the Retail Customer and/or Operator’s responsibility to inspect the product and to  
have any part(s) repaired or replaced when continued operation would cause damage  
or excessive wear to other parts or cause a safety hazard.  
It is the Retail Customer’s responsibility to deliver the product to the authorized Bush  
Hog Dealer, from whom he purchased it, for service or replacement of defective parts  
which are covered by warranty. Repairs to be submitted for warranty consideration  
must be made within forty-five (45) days of failure.  
It is the Retail Customer’s responsibility for any cost incurred by the Dealer for travel-  
ing to or hauling of the product for the purpose of performing a warranty obligation or  
inspection.  
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LIMITED WARRANTY  
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO  
Bush Hog warrants to the original purchaser of any new Bush Hog equipment, purchased from an  
authorized Bush Hog dealer, that the equipment be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period  
of one (1) year for non-commercial, state and municipalities’ use and ninety (90) days for commercial use from  
date of retail sale. Models ATH & FTH gearboxes are covered by a five (5) year limited warranty period. The  
obligation of Bush Hog to the purchaser under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of defective  
parts.  
Replacement or repair parts installed in the equipment covered by this limited warranty are warranted  
for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase of such part or to the expiration of the applicable new equip-  
ment warranty period, whichever occurs later. Warranted parts shall be provided at no cost to the user at an  
authorized Bush Hog dealer during regular working hours. Bush Hog reserves the right to inspect any equip-  
ment or parts which are claimed to have been defective in material or workmanship.  
DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES & CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES  
Bush Hog’s obligation under this limited warranty, to the extent allowed by law, is in lieu of all war-  
ranties, implied or expressed, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS  
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE and any liability for incidental and consequential damages with respect to  
the sale or use of the items warranted. Such incidental and consequential damages shall include but not be  
limited to: transportation charges other than normal freight charges; cost of installation other than cost  
approved by Bush Hog; duty; taxes; charges for normal service or adjustment; loss of crops or any other loss of  
income; rental of substitute equipment, expenses due to loss, damage, detention or delay in the delivery of  
equipment or parts resulting from acts beyond the control of Bush Hog.  
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL NOT APPLY:  
1. To vendor items which carry their own warranties, such as engines, tires, and tubes.  
2. If the unit has been subjected to misapplication, abuse, misuse, negligence, fire or other accident.  
3. If parts not made or supplied by Bush Hog have been used in connection with the unit, if, in the sole judge-  
ment of Bush Hog such use affects its performance, stability or reliability.  
4. If the unit has been altered or repaired outside of an authorized Bush Hog dealership in a manner  
which, in the sole judgement of Bush Hog, affects its performance, stability or reliability.  
5. To normal maintenance service and normal replacement items such as gearbox lubricant, hydraulic fluid,  
worn blades, or to normal deterioration of such things as belts and exterior finish due to use or  
exposure.  
6. To expendable or wear items such as teeth, chains, sprockets, belts, springs and any other items that in the  
company’s sole judgement is a wear item.  
NO EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE OF BUSH HOG IS AUTHORIZED TO CHANGE THIS LIMITED  
WARRANTY IN ANY WAY OR GRANT ANY OTHER WARRANTY UNLESS SUCH CHANGE IS MADE I  
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WRITING AND SIGNED BY BUSH HOG’S SERVICE MANAGER, 2501 GRIFFIN AVE., SELMA, ALABAMA  
36703.  
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO  
Record the model number, serial number and date  
purchased. This information will be helpful to your  
dealer if parts or service are required.  
MODEL NUMBER  
SERIAL NUMBER  
MAKE CERTAIN THE WARRANTY INFORMATION  
HAS BEEN FILED ONLINE WITH BUSH HOG  
SELMA, ALABAMA  
DATE OF RETAIL SALE  
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DEALER PREPARATION CHECK LIST  
ATH / FTH FINISHING MOWERS  
BEFORE DELIVERING MACHINE — The following check list should be completed.  
Use the Operator’s Manual as a guide.  
o 1. Assembly completed.  
o 2. Gearboxes filled with oil.  
o 3. All fittings lubricated.  
o 4. All shields in place and in good condition.  
o 5. All fasteners torqued to specifications given in Torque Chart  
r 6. All decals in place and readable. (See decal page.)  
o 7. Overall condition good (i.e. paint, welds)  
o 8. Operators manual has been delivered to owner and he has been instructed  
on the safe and proper use of the cutter.  
o 9. Warranty information has been filed online with Bush Hog.  
Dealer’s  
Signature  
THIS CHECKLIST TO REMAIN IN OWNER’S MANUAL  
It is the responsibility of the dealer to complete the procedures listed  
above before delivery of this implement to the customer.  
3
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IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
This symbol is used to call attention to safety  
precautions that should be followed by the  
operator to avoid accidents. When you see this  
symbol, carefully read the message that fol-  
lows and heed its advice. Failure to comply  
with safety precautions could result in death or  
serious bodily injury.  
In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are depen-  
dent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of personnel in the operation, transport,  
maintenance and storage of equipment. Lack of attention to safety can result in accident, personal injury,  
reduction of efficiency and worst of all—loss of life. Watch for safety hazards and correct deficiencies  
promptly. Use the following safety precautions as a general guide to safe operations when using this  
machine. Additional safety precautions are used throughout this manual for specific operating and mainte-  
nance procedures. Read this manual and review the safety precautions often until you know the limitations.  
1. Read the Operator’s Manual. Failure to read the Operator’s Manual is considered a misuse of this  
equipment.  
2. Become familiar with all the machine’s controls and all the caution, warning and danger decals affixed  
to the machine before attempting to start or operate.  
3. Before starting or operating the machine, make a walk around inspection and check for obvious  
defects such as loose mounting bolts and damaged components. Correct any deficiency before  
starting.  
4. Do not allow children to operate the cutter. Do not allow adults to operate it without proper instruction.  
5. Do not carry passengers.  
6. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets. The operator  
should cease mowing whenever anyone comes within the operating area.  
7. Clear the work area of objects which might be picked up and thrown.  
8. Use a piece of cardboard or wood rather than hands to search for hydraulic leaks. Escaping hydraulic  
oil under pressure can penetrate skin. If fluid is injected into the skin, it must be surgically removed  
within a few hours by a doctor familiar with this form of injury or gangrene may result.  
9. Do not operate without all guards and shields in place and in good condition.  
10. Lower implement to ground, stop tractor engine, apply parking brake, and allow blades to completely  
stop before leaving the tractor.  
11. Keep hands and feet away from blades.  
12. This cutter is not to be operated along highways or in any area where people may be present unless  
all sides of the unit are enclosed by permanent bands, safety chains or other factory approved safety  
shields that are in good repair.  
13. Wear personal protective equipment such as, but not limited to, protection for eyes, ears, feet, hands  
and head when operating or repairing the equipment. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that may  
catch on equipment moving parts.  
14. When performing adjustments or maintenance on the cutter, first lower it to the ground or block it  
securely at a workable height.  
15. Never stand between tractor and cutter while tractor is being backed to the cutter hitch.  
16. Reduce speed when transporting cutter to avoid bouncing and momentary loss of steering.  
17. Use tractor flashing warning lights, day or night, when transporting cutter on road or highways unless  
prohibited by law.  
18. It is recommended that tractor be equipped with Rollover Protective System (ROPS) and seat belt be  
used in all mowing operations.  
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IMPORTANT FEDERAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS* CONCERNING  
EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES AND OPERATIONS.  
*(This section is intended to explain in broad terms the concept and effect of the following federal laws and  
regulations. It is not intended as a legal interpretation of the laws and should not be considered as such).  
U.S. Public Law 91-596 (The Williams-Steiger Occupational and Health Act of 1970) OSHA  
This Act Seeks:  
“...to assure so far as possible every working man and woman in the nation safe and healthful working  
conditions and to preserve our human resources...”  
DUTIES  
Sec. 5 (a) Each employer—  
(1) shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment  
which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause  
death or serious physical harm to his employees;  
(2) shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under  
this Act.  
(b) Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards  
and all rules, regulations and orders issued pursuant to this Act which are  
applicable to his own actions and conduct.  
OSHA Regulations  
Current OSHA regulations state in part: “At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter, the  
employer shall instruct every employee in the safe operation and servicing of all equipment with which the  
employee is, or will be involved.” These will include (but are not limited to) instructions to:  
Keep all guards in place when the machine is in operation;  
Permit no riders on equipment;  
Stop engine, disconnect the power source, and wait for all machine movement to stop before  
servicing, adjusting, cleaning or unclogging the equipment, except where the machine must be  
running to be properly serviced or maintained, in which case the employer shall instruct employees  
as to all steps and procedures which are necessary to safely service or maintain the equipment.  
Make sure everyone is clear of machinery before starting the engine, engaging power, or operating  
the machine.  
Child Labor Under 16 Years Old  
Some regulations specify that no one under the age of 16 may operate power machinery. It is your  
responsibility to know what these regulations are in your own area or situation. (Refer to U.S. Dept. of  
Labor, Employment Standard Administration, Wage & Home Division, Child Labor Bulletin #102.)  
EMPLOYEE TRACTOR OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS:  
1. Securely fasten your seat belt if the tractor has a  
ROPS.  
5. Watch where you are going, especially at row  
ends, on roads, and around trees.  
2. Where possible, avoid operating the tractor near  
ditches, embankments, and holes.  
6. Do not permit others to ride.  
7. Operate the tractor smoothly - no jerky turns,  
starts, or stops.  
3. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes, and  
on rough, slick, or muddy surfaces.  
8. Hitch only to the drawbar and hitch points recom-  
mended by tractor manufacturers.  
4. Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.  
9. When tractor is stopped, set brakes securely and  
use park lock if available.  
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SECTION I  
INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION  
Parallel uplift blades form a suction during operation  
1-1 INTRODUCTION  
to lift the grass before cutting it. The four caster  
wheel arrangement, along with the floating lift link-  
age and optional front mounted roller, all work  
together to give an even cut and minimize scalping.  
We are pleased to have you as a Bush Hog cus-  
tomer. Your ATH/FTH Series Rotary Cutter has  
been carefully designed to give maximum service  
with minimum down time.This manual is provided to  
give you the necessary operating and maintenance  
instructions for keeping your rotary cutter in top  
operating condition. Please read this manual thor-  
oughly. Understand what each control is for and how  
to use it. Observe all safety precautions decaled on  
the machine and noted throughout the manual for  
safe operation of implement. If any assistance or  
additional information is needed, contact your autho-  
rized Bush Hog dealer.  
Power from the tractor is transmitted through a trian-  
gular, telescoping driveline to the 90 degree gear-  
box. It is then passed to the spindle housings and  
blades by a single, B-section, Kevlar reinforced belt.  
Drivetrain protection is provided by belt slippage.  
Table 1-1 Specifications  
ATH 600 ATH 720  
FTH 480 FTH 600 FTH 720  
NOTE  
Cutting Width (in.)  
48  
60  
72  
All references made to right, left, top,  
bottom, front or rear are as viewed  
facing the direction of travel with  
implement properly attached to trac-  
tor.  
Cutting Height (in.)  
Horsepower Range  
Blade Tip Speed (fpm)  
Weight (lbs.)  
1 to 6  
15-35  
15,613  
11-30  
494  
20-40  
570  
560  
610  
588  
1-2 DESCRIPTION  
The ATH/FTH cutters (Figure 1-1) are intended for  
cutting lawns, golf courses, or any maintained area  
where a clean, uniform finish is desired.  
Figure 1-1 ATH 720  
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SECTION II  
PREPARATION FOR USE  
NOTE  
2-1 ATTACHING TO TRACTOR  
Due to the many variations in trac-  
tor/implement hitch points and corre-  
sponding differences in distances between  
tractor PTO shafts and implement input  
shafts, drivelines may need to be short-  
ened as described in the following steps:  
WARNING  
NEVER STAND BETWEEN TRACTOR  
AND CUTTER WHILE TRACTOR IS  
BEING BACKED TO HITCH.  
WARNING  
B. Raise and lower cutter to determine position  
with shortest distance between the tractor PTO shaft  
and gearbox input shaft. Shut down tractor leaving  
cutter in position of shortest distance. SECURELY  
BLOCK CUTTER IN POSITION.  
C. Pull driveline apart. Attach outer (female) sec-  
tion to tractor PTO shaft. Pull on driveline section to  
be sure yoke locks into place.  
D. Hold driveline sections parallel to each other to  
determine if too long. Each section should end  
approximately 3 inches (76mm) short of reaching  
universal joint shield on opposite section. If too long,  
measure 3 inches (76mm) back from universal joint  
shield and mark opposite section. (Figure 2-1). Do  
this for both sections.  
ADDITIONAL  
TRACTOR  
FRONT  
BALLAST MAY BE NEEDED FOR  
STABLE OPERATION AND TRANSPORT  
OF CUTTER. SEE TRACTOR OPERA-  
TOR’S MANUAL FOR RECOMMENDED  
WEIGHTS. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT  
TRACTOR BE EQUIPPED WITH  
ROLLOVER PROTECTIVE SYSTEM  
(ROPS) AND SEAT BELTS.  
A. Attach to tractor Cat. I three point hitch as  
described in tractor operator’s manual.  
E. Raise and lower cutter to determine position  
with greatest distance between PTO shaft and gear-  
box input shaft. Shut down tractor leaving cutter in  
position of greatest distance. SECURELYBLOCK  
CUTTER IN POSITION.  
F. Hold down driveline sections parallel to each  
other and check for minimum 6 inches (152mm)  
overlap. (Figure 2-2) If driveline has been marked for  
cutting, overlap will be the distance between two  
marks. If driveline has less than minimum overlap,  
DO NOT USE. Contact authorized Bush Hog dealer.  
NOTE  
If driveline is correct length, omit the fol-  
lowing steps “G” through “J” and proceed  
to step “K”.  
Figure 2-1  
Figure 2-2  
Minimum  
Overlap  
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G. Clamp end of driveline in a vice. Cut off shield  
where marked. (Figure 2-3).  
Figure 2-5  
Figure 2-3  
DANGER  
MAKE CERTAIN DRIVELINE YOKES  
ARE SECURELY FASTENED. FAILURE  
TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS  
INJURY.  
H. Using cut off section of shield as a guide, cut  
shaft the same amount. (Figure 2-4)  
Figure 2-4  
L. Raise cutter off ground and adjust lower lift  
arms to level cutter right to left. Refer to tractor oper-  
ator’s manual.  
M. Lower cutter to work position. Adjust tractor  
top link to position cutter top flex link as shown in  
Figure 2-6. This allows cutter to “float” during opera-  
tion. Also lower the tractor lift arms so that lower  
links can also “float”.  
N. Adjust tractor sway chains, stabilizer bar or  
equivalent to prevent side sway.  
Figure 2-6 Flex-Link  
Tractor  
Top Link  
I. Repeat steps “G” and “H” to other driveline sec-  
tion.  
J. Deburr ends of driveline sections and clean  
away all chips and filings. (Figure 2-5)  
Tractor  
Lower Lift Arm  
K. Apply multi-purpose grease to outside of male  
driveline section. Assemble driveline and install on  
tractor and cutter. Pull on each driveline section to  
be sure yokes lock into place. Make certain driveline  
shielding is in place and in good condition.  
Lower Link  
8
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SECTION III  
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
3-1 GENERAL SAFETY  
Figure 3-1  
Only qualified people familiar with this operator’s  
manual and tractor operator’s manual should oper-  
ate this machine. Operator should wear hard hat,  
safety glasses and safety shoes. The operator  
should read, understand and practice all safety mes-  
sages shown on the caution, warning and danger  
decals affixed to the cutter to avoid serious injury or  
death. It is recommended that tractor be equipped  
with Rollover Protective System (ROPS) and a seat  
belt be used. Before beginning operation, clear work  
area of any objects that may be picked up and  
thrown. Check for ditches, stumps, holes or other  
obstacles that could upset tractor or damage cutter.  
Always lower cutter to ground and allow blades to  
come to a complete stop, set parking brake and turn  
off tractor engine before leaving tractor operator’s  
seat.  
Pin  
Spacers  
Caster  
Wheel  
DANGER  
STAY CLEAR OF ROTATING DRIVELINE. DO  
NOT OPERATE WITHOUT DRIVELINE SHIELDS  
IN PLACE AND IN GOOD CONDITION. FAILURE  
TO HEED THESE WARNINGS MAY RESULT IN  
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.  
3-2 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT  
The cutter should be operated at the highest position  
that will give desired cutting results. This will help pre-  
vent blades from striking the ground, reducing blade  
wear and undue strain on the machine. Cutting too  
much material will leave excess clippings on the lawn  
surface. The more frequently the lawn is mowed, the  
better the effect will be. Adjust as follows:  
DANGER  
STAND CLEAR OF ROTATING CUTTER  
BLADES UNTIL ALL MOTION HAS STOPPED.  
TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL FALL AND POSSIBLE  
INJURY FROM CUTTER,IT IS RECOMMENDED  
THAT TRACTOR BE EQUIPPED WITH  
ROLLOVER PROTECTIVE SYSTEM AND THAT  
A SEAT BELT BE USED FOR ALL OPERA-  
TIONS.  
A. Raise cutter off ground using tractor 3-point  
lift. SECURELY BLOCK CUTTER IN POSITION.  
C. With tractor at idle speed, engage PTO drive.  
Advance throttle to 540 PTO rpm.  
D. Place tractor in low gear and begin cutting.  
Tractor forward speed should be controlled by gear  
selection, not engine speed. For maximum cutting  
efficiency, forward speed should allow cutter to  
maintain a constant maximum blade speed.  
WARNING  
THE CUTTER CAN FALL FROM  
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FAILURE. TO  
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,  
SECURELY SUPPORT CUTTER BEFORE  
WORKING UNDERNEATH  
Cutting height should not put undue strain on tractor  
and implement drivetrain. If tractor engine or cutter  
stalls, do not slip tractor clutch to allow engine to  
retain speed as this will exert undue strain on the  
implement drivetrain. When stalling occurs, disen-  
gage PTO drive, move to a cut area, set tractor  
throttle to idle, then re-engage PTO drive.  
B. Remove pin securing caster wheel to bracket.  
(Figure 3-1) Remove caster wheel from arm.  
C. Place amount of spacers on caster wheel to  
give desired cutting height. With no spacers on the  
bottom, a 1” or slightly lower cutting height is given.  
D. Reinstall caster wheel into caster arm. Place  
remaining spacers on caster wheel and install pin to  
retain.  
Always cut up and down the face of slopes, never  
across.  
E. Repeat operation for all caster wheels. Make  
certain all wheels are adjusted to the same height.  
Check belt tension after first 8 hours. Adjust per-  
paragraph 4-3 if needed.  
3-3 OPERATION  
3-4 TRANSPORTING  
Turn off PTO drive and fully raise tractor 3-point lift  
before transporting. When implement is transported  
on road or highway, day or night, use tractor flashing  
warning lights unless prohibited by law. A slow mov-  
ing vehicle (SMV) sign on the tractor must be visible  
from the rear by approaching vehicles.  
A. Perform BEFORE EACH USE maintenance  
list in paragraph 4-1.  
B. Start tractor. Lower cutter until it is supported  
by caster wheels. Position tractor lower lift arms as  
shown in Figure 2-6, page 9. This will allow cutter  
to”float” during operation.  
9
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SECTION IV  
MAINTENANCE  
8.During operation, listen for abnormal sounds  
4-1 MAINTENANCE CHECK LIST  
which might indicate loose parts, damaged bearings,  
or other damage. Correct any deficiency before con-  
tinuing operation.  
Perform scheduled maintenance as outlined below.  
Lower implement to ground, turn off tractor, and set  
parking brake before doing maintenance inspections  
or work. Some checks may require raising machine  
off ground and supporting with blocks. All bolts  
should be torqued as indicated in torque chart  
unless otherwise indicated.  
AFTER EACH USE  
1. Clean all debris from machine especially under-  
side of deck, underneath belt shield and off safety  
decals. Replace any missing or illegible decals.  
2. Inspect cutter for worn or damaged compo-  
nents. Repair or replace before next use. Any  
replacement components installed during repair shall  
include the components’ current safety decals speci-  
fied by the manufacturer to be affixed to the compo-  
nent.  
WARNING  
THE CUTTER CAN FALL FROM  
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FAILURE. TO  
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,  
SECURELY SUPPORT CUTTER BEFORE  
WORKING UNDERNEATH.  
3. Store cutter in a dry place.  
40 HOURS  
BEFORE EACH USE.  
1. Check belt for proper tension. Refer to para-  
graph 4-3.  
1. Check tractor tire air pressure. Refer to tractor  
operator’s manual. Check mower tire pressure (if  
pneumatic tires). Tire pressure should be 30 psi.  
2. Check blades and spindles to be sure that  
no foreign objects such as wire or steel strapping  
bands are wrapped around them.  
4-2 LUBRICATION (Figures 4-1A, & B)  
NOTE  
The multi-purpose grease referenced in this  
secftion is an NLGI Grade 2 type grease.  
3. Check blade bolts for tightness. Tighten  
blade bolts to 76 ft./lbs.  
4. Inspect blades for wear. Replace if necessary  
per paragraph 4-5. Use only genuine Bush Hog  
replacement parts. If it is necessary to sharpen the  
blades, remove the blades from the spindles before  
sharpening. DO NOT sharpen blades while still  
attached to mower.  
5. Make certain all shields are in place and in  
good condition. Repair or replace any missing or  
damaged shields.  
6. Inspect wheel(s) for wear, damage or foreign  
objects. Repair or replace if necessary.  
7. Perform BEFORE EACH USE lubrication per  
paragraph 4-2.  
BEFORE EACH USE  
1. Driveline Universal Joints - Apply multi-purpose  
grease with grease gun.  
2. Driveline Guard - Apply 2-3 shots of multi-pur-  
pose grease with grease gun to plastic fitting.  
3. Wheels - Apply multi-purpose grease wiith  
grease gun.  
4. Caster Pivot - Apply multi-purpose grease with  
grease gun.  
40 HOURS  
5. Input Gearbox - Add EP80W-90 gear oil, if nec-  
essary, to bring oil level to check plug.  
20 HOURS  
6. Driveline - Disconnect PTO driveline, pull the  
two sections apart, thoroughly clean old grease from  
tubes and apply thin coat of multi-purpose grease to  
outside of inner (male) section. Reassemble sec-  
tions and install. Pull each section to be sure drive-  
line and shields are securely connected. Make cer-  
tain PTO shielding is in good condition.  
Figure 4-1A  
(5) Before Each Use  
(6) 20 Hours  
Figure 4-1B  
(2) Before Each Use  
(1) Before Each Use  
(3) Before Each Use  
(4) Before Each Use  
10  
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40 HOURS  
4-4 BELT REPLACEMENT  
7. Spindle Assembly - Apply multi-purpose grease  
with grease gun until grease purges out relief  
hole. Grease fittings for spindles should be  
accessed by removing the plastic plugs in the  
shields. After completing lubrication, replace  
plastic plugs..  
Use only genuine Bush Hog replacement parts.  
A. Remove right and left side shields.  
B. Relieve spring tension by loosening the two  
3/8” hex nuts on the spring adjustment rod.  
(Figure 4-1C)  
C. Remove old belt.  
D. Install new belt, referring to the diagrams below.  
(Also refer to the decal on the mower deck) Be  
sure that the belt is properly positioned in all  
sheave grooves.  
Figure 4-1C  
(7) 40 Hours  
E. Adjust tension on the belt by adjusting the length  
of the spring on the moveable idler. The correct  
spring lengths are 7116”, 658”, and 778” for the 48”,  
60” and 72” mowers respectively.  
F. Replace right and left side shields.  
FTH 480 BELT DIAGRAM  
FRONT  
3/8” Hex Nuts - Spring Length Adjustment  
4-3 BELT ADJUSTMENT  
BELT INSTALLATION GUIDE  
Belt tension should be checked every 40 hours to  
get maximum life from drive belt and best perfor-  
mance from cutter. Belt tension is adjusted by  
increasing or decreasing the length of the spring on  
the moveable idler. For proper belt tension on the  
48” mower, the spring length should be set at 7-1/16”.  
For proper belt tension on the 60” mowers, the  
spring length should be set at 6-5/8”. For proper belt  
tension on the 72” mowers, the spring length should  
be set at 7-7/8”. (Figure 4-1C). To adjust the spring  
length, loosen or tighten the 3/8” hex nuts on the  
spring adjustment rod until the correct spring length  
is reached.  
ATH/FTH 600,720 BELT DIAGRAM  
FRONT  
BELT INSTALLATION GUIDE  
11  
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Figure 4-2 Blade Placement  
Spindle Assembly  
4-5 BLADE REPLACEMENT  
CAUTION  
WEAR HEAVY WORK GLOVES TO PRO-  
TECT HANDS FROM SHARP EDGES.  
A. Raise cutter using tractor 3-point lift and  
SECURELY BLOCK INTO POSITION.  
B. Turn off tractor, set parking brake and remove key.  
C. Remove bolt and cup washer securing blade to  
spindle. Remove blade.  
D. Install new blade as shown in Figure 4-2 with con-  
cave side of cup washer against blade. Be sure that  
blades are installed with offset in proper direction. Tighten  
retaining bolt to 76 ft./lbs.  
Blade  
Cup Washer  
Retaining Bolt  
4-6 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Troubleshooting procedures are listed in Table 4-1 below. If the problem cannot be solved or replacement parts  
are necessary, contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer. Please have ready your machine name, model num-  
ber, serial number, purchase date and exact cause or description of problem.  
Table 4-1 Troubleshooting  
PROBLEM  
PROBABLE CAUSE  
REMEDY  
Uneven Cut  
Cutter not level  
side to side or  
front to rear.  
See SECTION III.  
Belt slipping.  
Adjust belt per  
paragraph 4-3.  
Worn or bent blade(s).  
Replace blade(s).  
Streaking or Windrowing  
Possible build-up  
of material under  
cutter.  
Clean cutter.  
Cutter not level.  
Worn blades.  
Belt slipping.  
See SECTION III.  
Replace blades.  
Adjust belt per  
paragraph 4-3.  
Noisy Cutter  
Loose components.  
Check all bolts for  
tightness.  
Low oil in gearbox.  
Check oil per paragraph 4-2.  
Rapid Blade Wear  
(cutting edge)  
Blade contacting  
ground.  
Adjust cutting height to  
eliminate ground contact.  
Cutter Vibrating  
Cutter not being  
operated at rated  
PTO speed.  
Set tractor throttle for  
proper PTO speed.  
Blade(s) bent.  
Replace blades.  
Remove object.  
Foreign object wrapped  
around spindle or blade.  
12  
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SECTION V  
DEALER ASSEMBLY  
10. If the assembly calls for welding or cutting, be  
CAUTION  
sure that there are no flammable materials close at  
hand and that bystanders have taken necessary  
precautions.  
THE FOLLOWING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY UNDERSTOOD  
BEFORE ATTEMPTING MACHINE ASSEMBLY.  
AFTER COMPLETING ANY ASSEMBLY STEP,  
THOROUGHLY READ THE NEXT STEP IN THE  
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE PRO-  
CEEDING WITH THAT STEP.  
1. Wear personal protective equipment such as,  
but not limited to, protection for eyes, ears, feet,  
hands, lungs and head when assembling the equip-  
ment. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that may  
catch on equipment moving parts.  
2. Do not lift heavy parts or assemblies. Use  
crane, jack, tackle, fork trucks or other mechanical  
devices.  
3. Select an area for assembly that is clean and  
free of any debris which might cause persons work-  
ing on the assembly to trip.  
4. Arrange parts to be assembled neatly in the  
work area and have tools or other mechanical assist-  
ing devices in easy reach.  
5. Inspect all parts and assemblies thoroughly and  
remove any sharp edges, grease, oil or dirt which-  
might cause pieces to slip when handling.  
6. Preview the assembly instructions in your oper-  
ator’s manual before proceeding further.  
7. If the assembly instructions call for parts or  
assemblies to be blocked up, use only blocking  
material that is in good condition and is capable of  
handling the weight of the assembly to be blocked.  
Also, insure that the blocking material is on a clean,  
dry surface.  
11. After completing assembly, thoroughly inspect  
the machine to be sure that all nuts, bolts, hydraulic  
fittings or any other fastened assemblies have been  
thoroughly tightened.  
12. After completing assembly, be sure that all  
safety locking devices or guards are in place.  
13. Before operating the machine, thoroughly  
read the operation section of this manual.  
14. Before operating the machine, read the main-  
tenance section of this manual to be sure that any  
parts requiring lubrication such as gearboxes are full  
to avoid any possible damage.  
BEFORE OPERATING THE EQUIPMENT, IF YOU  
HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE  
PROPER ASSEMBLY OR OPERATION, CON-  
TACT YOUR AUTHORIZED BUSH HOG DEALER  
OR REPRESENTATIVE.  
5-1 BASE UNIT ASSEMBLY  
8. Never put hands or any other part of body  
under blocked up assemblies if at all possible.  
9. Always wear goggles or safety glasses when  
hammering, grinding, or drilling metal parts.  
A. Attach lower lift links to deck assembly using  
1/2 x 2” bolts, pivot bushings, flatwashers, lockwash-  
ers, and hex nuts. (Figure 5-1)  
B. Install lift pins onto lower links, securing with  
7/8” lockwashers and hex nuts.  
C. Attach mast halves to deck assembly using  
1/2” x 1-1/2” bolts, lockwashers and hex nuts.  
Figure 5-1  
Flex Link  
Gearbox  
Mast  
Support  
Caster Arm  
Mast Half  
Spacers  
Lower Lift Link  
13  
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D. Loosely attach two caster arms to the front of  
the mower deck using 5/8 x 3-1/2” bolts, lockwash-  
ers and hex nuts. Install reinforcement plates  
between bolt heads and caster arms. Loosely attach  
the remaining two caster arms to the rear of the  
mower deck using 5/8 x 3-1/2” bolts, lockwashers  
and hex nuts in each caster arm. Attach mast sup-  
ports to the rear of the mower deck at rearholes of  
caster arms using 5/8” x 4” bolts, lockwashers and  
hex nuts. (Figure 5-1) Fasteners will be tightened  
after caster wheels are installed.  
G. If front roller is purchased, (ATH MODELS)  
Install by securing the right and left roller mounts to  
the deck in the holes provided by using 3/8 x 1-1/4”  
carriage bolts, flatwashers, lockwashers and hex  
nuts. Install bolts with heads to inside of deck.  
(Figure 5-2) Assemble roller, roller shaft, retainer  
and roll pin as shown in Figure 5-2.  
If front roller is purchased, (FTH MODELS)  
Install by securing the right and left roller mounts to  
the deck in the holes provided by using 3/8 x 1-1/4”  
carriage bolts, flatwashers, lockwashers and hex  
nuts. Install bolts with heads to inside of deck.  
(Figure 5-2A) Assemble roller, roller sleeve, 1/2” x 6-  
1/2” capscrew, 3/4” flatwashers and 1/2” locknut as  
shown in Figure 5-2A.  
E. Fasten mast supports and upper flex link to  
mast halves using 1/2 x 5” capscrew, pivot tube and  
locknut..  
F. Place two long spacers on the caster stems  
and insert into caster arms. Place two long spacers  
and two short spacers on the caster stem above the  
caster arms. This arrangement will give a cutting  
height of approximately three inches. Secure with  
lynch pin retainers. With weight of cutter resting on  
all four wheels, ensure that cutter is level. Tighten all  
bolts on mounting brackets.  
H. Fill gearbox with EP80W-90 gear oil until oil  
level is at check plug on side of gearbox housing.  
(Capacity is 1 quart) Replace solid fill plug with  
breather plug supplied in operator’s manual pack-  
age.  
Figure 5-2  
(ATH MODELS)  
3/8” x 1 14” Carriage Bolts  
3/8” Flatwashers  
3/8” Lockwashers  
3/8” Hex Nuts  
Retainer  
Roller Shaft  
Roller  
Roller Mount L.H.  
Roller Mount R.H.  
Roll Pin  
3/8” x 1 14” Carriage Bolts  
3/8” Flatwashers  
3/8” Lockwashers  
3/8” Hex Nuts  
Figure 5-2A  
(FTH MODELS)  
Roller Mount R.H.  
3/4” Flatwashers.  
Roller Mount L.H.  
1/2” x 6 12” Capscrew  
1/2” Lock Nut  
Roller  
Roller Sleeve  
14  
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SAFETY DECALS  
To promote safe operation, Bush Hog supplies safety decals on all products manufactured. Because damage  
can occur to safety decals either through shipment, use or reconditioning, Bush Hog will, upon request, provide  
safety decals for any of our products in the field at no charge. Contact your authorized Bush Hog dealer for  
more information.  
50042283  
50042285  
50042282  
50012616  
78608  
78786  
83056  
IMPLEMENT CAN FALL FROM HYDRAULIC  
SYSTEM RELEASE. TO AVOID SERIOUS  
INJURY OR DEATH:  
ROTATING DRIVE PARTS  
BENEATH  
SHUT OFF TRACTOR ENGINE, REMOVE KEY, SECURE  
TRACTOR PARKING BRAKE AND BLOCK UP OR SECURELY  
SUPPORT IMPLEMENT BEFORE WORKING UNDERNEATH.  
ENTANGLEMENT WITH ROTATING  
DRIVE PARTS CAN CAUSE INJURY OR  
DEATH.  
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT THIS  
AND ALL OTHER SHIELDS IN PLACE  
STAND CLEAR IF LOWERING OR RAISING IMPLEMENT.  
AND IN GOOD CONDITION.  
50042284  
50012615  
50042284  
50012615  
50042281  
15  
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TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS  
Proper toque for American fasteners used on Bush Hog equipment.  
Recommended Torque in Foot Pounds (Newton Meters).*  
AMERICAN  
BOLT DIAMETER  
Bolt Head Markings  
WRENCH  
(IN.) “B” AND  
THREAD SIZE  
SAE  
SAE  
SAE  
SIZE (IN.) “A”  
GRADE 2  
GRADE 5  
GRADE 8  
7/16  
7/16  
1/4 - 2O UNC  
1/4 - 28 UNF  
5/16 - 18 UNC  
5/16 - 24 UNF  
3/8 - 16 UNC  
3/8 - 24 UNF  
7/16 - 14 UNC  
7/16 - 20 UNF  
1/2 - 13 UNC  
1/2 - 20 UNF  
9/16 - 12 UNC  
9/16 - 18 UNF  
5/8 - 11 UNC  
5/8 - 18 UNF  
3/4 - 10 UNC  
3/4 - 16 UNF  
7/8 - 9 UNC  
6 (7)  
8 (11)  
10 (13)  
12 (16)  
14 (18)  
6 (8)  
1/2  
11 (15)  
17 (23)  
25 (33)  
SAE Grade 2  
(No Dashes)  
1/2  
13 (17)  
19 (26)  
27 (37)  
9/16  
20 (27)  
31 (42)  
44 (60)  
9/16  
23 (31)  
35 (47)  
49 (66)  
5/8  
32 (43)  
49 (66)  
70 (95)  
5/8  
36 (49)  
55 (75)  
78 (106)  
3/4  
49 (66)  
76 (103)  
106 (144)  
120 (163)  
153 (207)  
172 (233)  
212 (287)  
240 (325)  
376 (509)  
420 (569)  
606 (821)  
668 (905)  
909 (1232)  
995 (1348)  
1019 (1381)  
1288(1745)  
1444 (1957)  
1817 (2462)  
2013 (2728)  
2382 (3228)  
2712 (3675)  
3161 (4283)  
3557 (4820)  
3/4  
55 (75)  
85 (115)  
7/8  
70 (95)  
109 (148)  
122 (165)  
150 (203)  
170 (230)  
266 (360)  
297 (402)  
430 (583)  
474 (642)  
644 (873)  
705 (955)  
721 (977)  
795 (1077)  
890 (1206)  
1120 (1518)  
1241 (1682)  
1470 (1992)  
1672 (2266)  
1950 (2642)  
2194 (2973)  
7/8  
79 (107)  
97 (131)  
110 (149)  
144 (195)  
192 (260)  
166 (225)  
184 (249)  
250 (339)  
274 (371)  
280 (379)  
354 (480)  
397 (538)  
500 (678)  
553 (749)  
655 (887)  
746 (1011)  
870 (1179)  
979 (1327)  
SAE Grade 5  
(3 Dashes)  
15/16  
15/16  
1-1/8  
1-1/8  
1-5/16  
1-5/16  
1-1/2  
1-1/2  
1-1/2  
1-11/16  
1-11/16  
1-7/8  
1-7/8  
2-1/16  
2-1/16  
2-1/4  
2-1/4  
7/8 - 14 UNF  
1 - 8 UNC  
1 - 12 UNF  
Wrench  
Size “A”  
1 - 14 UNF  
SAE Grade 8  
(6 Dashes)  
1-1/8 - 7 UNC  
1-1/8 - 12 UNF  
1-1/4 - 7 UNC  
1-1/4 - 12 UNF  
1-3/8 - 6 UNC  
1-3/8 - 12 UNF  
1-1/2 - 6 UNC  
1-1/2 - 12 UNF  
Proper torque for metric fasteners used on Bush Hog equipment.  
Recommended torque in foot pounds (newton Meters).*  
METRIC  
WRENCH  
BOLT  
DIA.  
SIZE  
(mm) “A”  
ASTM  
4.6  
ASTM  
8.8  
ASTM  
9.8  
ASTM  
10.9  
(mm) “B”  
8
5
1.8 (2.4)  
3 (4)  
5.1 (6.9)  
8.7 (12)  
21.1 (29)  
42 (57)  
6.5 (8.8)  
11.1 (15)  
27 (37)  
10  
13  
16  
18  
21  
24  
30  
33  
36  
41  
46  
6
8
7.3 (10)  
14.5 (20)  
25 (34)  
40 (54)  
62 (84)  
122 (165)  
Wrench  
Size “A”  
10  
12  
14  
16  
20  
22  
24  
27  
30  
53 (72)  
8.8  
74 (100)  
118 (160)  
167 (226)  
325 (440)  
443 (600)  
563 (763)  
821 (1112)  
1119 (1516)  
73 (99)  
93 (126)  
116 (157)  
181 (245)  
148 (201)  
230 (312)  
449 (608)  
611 (828)  
778 (1054)  
1138 (1542)  
1547 (2096)  
Numbers appearing on bolt heads  
indicate ASTM class.  
*Use 75% of the specified torque value for plated  
fasteners. Use 85% of the specified torque values  
for lubricated fasteners.  
211 (286)  
418 (566)  
16  
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l
2501 Griffin Ave. Selma, AL 36703  
l
Telephone (334) 874-2700 www.bushhog.com  
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