TM 5-3820-245-14&P
3-6
DIGGING (Continued)
K.
When returning into the hole, do not hold the auger bar control valve open after the auger hits bottom. This
will raise the truck and may shift the digger off the hole.
L.
Do not attempt to dig too fast or overload the auger for a period of time. The unit is new and requires a
certain amount of break-in. This period is important since it allows the operator to become familiar with the
new digger at the same time.
M.
When digging with extra-depth diggers, dig the first three to five feet slowly; then continue at normal speed.
This helps stabilize the auger and bar, thus eliminating bar slap inside the barrel.
N.
In the event the auger gets overloaded and it cannot be lifted with the auger bar control, disengage clutch,
shift the transmission into reverse, re-engage clutch; this will back the auger out of the hole. Use the auger
bar control to pull up at the same time. When the auger is clear, disengage the clutch and shift the
transmission back forward and continue digging.
O.
If for some reason the hydraulic system should fail while the auger is in the hole, place the transmission in
reverse, shovel dirt into the hole, pull control marked auger bar, engage clutch and the auger will back itself
out. When the auger reaches the top of the hole, push the elevating cylinder control, move the truck
forward slowly, and the barrel will lower. By using the control valve, lower the barrel to travel position.
P.
For efficient digging, the bit point and cutting teeth should be kept sharp at all times. If hard digging is
encountered, such as sandstone, limestone, frozen ground, etc., the auger speed should be reduced and a
slight down pressure put on the auger to allow the auger to cut its way. Excessive speeds and down
pressure cause undue wear on auger teeth and may damage the drive train if the auger should hang.
Q.
Tight rock formations and friable materials can easily be handled by the auger equipped with rock boring
head and Tungsten Carbide cutting points. This combination will handle any digging that can be considered
"DIGGER" material. Rock drilling can also be assisted by adding water to the cut for lubrication and
cooling.
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