What should I watch out for when working under the linkage on a tractor with a kit fitted?
Before working under the linkage, lower the implement to the ground or place a mechanical support, stop the engine, apply the handbrake and keep the ignition key on you. On tractors with a kit fitted, as an additional precaution disconnect the kit's supply, remove the fuse and keep the remote control with you; hydraulic pressure alone is not considered a safety measure.
A raised linkage can always creep down slowly because of internal leakage. That is why no hydraulic system on its own is accepted as a support.
The sequence to follow:
- If possible, lower the implement fully to the ground. If it has to stay up, use a mechanical stand or block of adequate capacity.
- Stop the engine, apply the handbrake, place wheel chocks.
- Remove the ignition key and keep it on you.
- Disconnect the kit's supply or remove its fuse. This way an accidental press of a switch produces no movement.
- If you are using an ELF-812, keep the remote control with you; do not let it fall into someone else's hands.
- Make sure nobody is in the area, and if you are working alone tell someone.
After the work is finished, reconnect the supply and, before removing the mechanical support, confirm that nobody is under the linkage. Always try the first movement by giving the command from a safe distance.
Full coverage of the topic: Converting a tractor hydraulic lever to electronic control