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Digger Derrick Usage

Document ID:
  • FO-WI-00195
Department Owner:
Training
Effective Date:
01/09/2026
Revision:
1

I. Purpose & Scope

To safely and effectively provide instruction on the inspection and proper use of Mud Mixer.

II. Definitions

Standard PPE – High Viz Garment, Hard Hat, Z-87.1 Safety Glasses, Gloves, Pants, Work Boots

III. Process

NOTE: Work instruction does not supplement the manual. For specific instructions for the exact model please refer to the owner’s manual.

A. Potential Hazards

  • Pressurized fluid Hazard
  • Burn Hazard
  • Fire and Explosion Hazard
  • Hazardous Atmosphere
  • Rollover Hazard
  • Crushing Hazard

B. PPE

  • Standard PPE
  • Hearing Protection
  • Respiratory protection (Recommended)

C. Inspection

  1. Position the unit on a level surface.
  2. Engage the PTO with the transmission in neutral or park without applying the parking brake. If the PTO engages, the parking brake interlock is not operating properly.
  3. Apply the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
  4. Turn off the engine.
  5. Make sure the vehicle tires are in good condition and properly inflated to the pressure posted on the driver’s side door.
  6. Clean any dirt, mud, or other residue off the top of the riggers stowed, check the oil level in the hydraulic reservoir. The oil level must be between the Add and Full marks on the dipstick. If necessary, add oil to the appropriate level.
  7. Visually inspect the unit for hydraulic leaks. Continue to look for hydraulic leaks while performing the inspection.
  8. Visually inspect the electrical wiring and associated components for signs of excessive deterioration and dirt and moisture accumulation.
  9. Through the inspection pay particular attention for proper operation and any damage, cracks or corrosion, missing or loose fasteners, cracked or broken inspection marks, and excessive wear. Also check for any oil leakage from each of the following:
    • Rotation bearing
    • Rotation gearbox
    • Boom pivot pin
    • Lift cylinder mounting pins
    • Digger gearbox
    • Digger link
    • Auger tube
    • Auger extension shaft
    • Pole guide pivot pins
    • Winch gearbox
    • Winch line keeper and sheaves
  10. Inspect all covers to make sure they are in place, secure, and in good condition.
  11. Check visual and audible safety devices for proper operation. Check operational and instructional placards. Replace missing and/or illegible placards.
  12. Verify the current dielectric test date for the unit.
  13. Start the engine, and engage the PTO.
    • If the temperature outside is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, warm the hydraulic oil before operating the unit or operating the pump with the engine at more than a fast idle.
  14. Test the outrigger interlock system.
    • Move the outriggers and tools/derrick selector to the Derrick position.
    • With all of the outriggers fully raised, move the boom control to the raise position.
    • If boom movements occurs, the outrigger interlock system is not functioning properly.
  15. Test the outriggers.
    • Move the outriggers and tools/derrick selector to the Outriggers and Tools position.
    • Properly set the outriggers. Confirm proper operation and audible motion alarm function.
    • Move the outriggers and tools/derrick selector to the Derrick position.
    • Hold one outrigger control in the Raise position while watching that outrigger for movement. If the outrigger retracts, the cylinder, holding valve, or outriggers and tools/derrick functions selector is not functioning properly.
    • Hold one outrigger control in the Lower position. If the outrigger extends, the outriggers and tools/derrick functions selector is not functioning properly.
    • Repeat steps for each outrigger.
    • Verify the outriggers are properly set, and note how far each outrigger is extended.
  16. Throughout the preoperational test of all until controls, confirm the following items.
    • Controls must operate smoothly and consistently.
    • When controls are released, they must return to neutral without sticking and all motion for that function must stop. If movement continues, a control valve may not be functioning properly.
    • While cylinders are extended and under load, no movement may occur while the controls are in neutral. Any movement could indicate a cylinder or holding valve malfunction.
  17. Test the chassis mounted winch and/or capstan.
    • Engage the emergency stop.
    • Operate each control. If movement occurs, the emergency stop is not functioning properly.
    • Disengage the emergency stop.
    • Operate each control through the full range of motion. Check the gearbox for malfunctioning components and oil leaks during operation.
    • With the controls in neutral, watch for winch drum or capstan movement. If movement occurs, the gearbox or control may not be functioning properly.
  18. Inspect chassis coupling devices (hitches, inserts, and safety chain points) for any damage or condition that may reduce the structural integrity. Inspect pins, latches, and locking devices for proper operation.
  19. Test the electrical portion of the hydraulic overload protection (HOP) system.
    • If the transferable boom flares and pole guide assembly is pinned to the intermediate boom, tilt the pole guide back.
    • Raise the boom approximately 12″.
    • Verify the following functions do not operate with the boom stow switch engaged.
      • Winch raise
      • Digger dig
      • Boom lower
      • Intermediate boom extend
      • Upper boom extend
    • If any of these functions operate, the boom stow switch is not properly actuating the HOP system.
  20. Test the operation of the anti-two-block (ATB) system.
    • Check the yellow low battery indicator light on the ATB monitor in the left hand turntable side cover (as viewed form the boom tip looking toward the turntable).
    • If the yellow light is flashing at four blinks per second, the battery in the ATB switch at the boom tip is low and must be replaced.
    • If the battery is good, raise the boom out of the rest and lower the load hook several inches below the ATB weight.
    • Operate the winch raise function to slowly raise the load hook. Verify that winch raise shuts off when the hook contacts and lifts the ATB weight. If the winch raise function does not shut off when the ATB weight is lifted, the ATB system is not functioning properly.
    • Push and release the ATB override switch, operate the winch raise function again, and confirm that winch raise is operational. Do not allow the load hook to contact the boom tip. If the winch raise function does not restart when the ATB override switch is operated, the ATB system is not functioning properly.
  21. Test the lower controls start/stop function by turning the engine off and back on with the control, and confirm the engine stops and restarts.
  22. Test the lower controls emergency stop.
    • Raise the boom slightly above the boom rest.
    • Engage the emergency stop.
    • Operate each control and observe for movement. If movement occurs, the emergency stop is not functioning properly.
    • Disengage the emergency stop.
  23. Test the lower controls enable pedal.
    • Operate each control without engaging the enable pedal, and observe for movement. If movement occurs, the enable pedal is not functioning properly.
    • Press and release the enable pedal. If the enable pedal does not return immediately to the released position when released, it is not functioning properly.
  24. Test the lower controls.
    • Operate each function through the full range of motion, and observe for proper operation.
    • With the boom raised and extended and the controls in neutral, watch for boom movement. If movement occurs, a cylinder or holding valve may not be functioning properly.
  25. Test the pole guide interlock and operation.
    • Retract the booms and position them where the boom flare and pole guide assembly can be re-pinned.
    • Pin the boom flares and pole guide assembly to the intermediate boom.
    • Tilt the pole guide forward. Verify the upper boom extend function does not operate. Do not allow the upper boom to contact the pole guide. If the upper boom extends, the pole guide interlock is not functioning properly.
    • Operate the pole guide tilt and tong functions through the full range of motion. Then close the tongs and tilt the pole guide back to the fully stowed position.
  26. Inspect the condition of the remote control transmitter, if equipped. Verify there are no holes or cracks in the housing and that joysticks and switches are not damaged.
  27. test the remote control transmitter start/stop function.
    • Place the controls selector in the Radio Controls position.
    • Turn the engine off and back on the with the control, and confirm that it stops and restarts.
  28. Test the remote control transmitter emergency stop.
    • Raise the boom slightly above the boom rest.
    • Engage the emergency stop.
    • Operate each control and observe for movement. If movement occurs, the emergency stop is not functioning properly.
    • Disengage the emergency stop and reset the transmitter.
  29. Test the remote control transmitter tilt sensor.
    • Tilt the transmitter more than 45 degrees for at least 5 seconds.
    • Operate each control and observe for movement. If movement occurs, the tilt sensor is not functioning properly.
    • Return the transmitter to an upright position.
  30. Test the remote control transmitter.
    • Standing on the ground, operate each function through its full range of motion, and observe for proper operation.
    • If the unit is not equipped with lower controls, watch for any boom movement with the remote control transmitter controls in neutral. If movement occurs, a cylinder or its holding valve may not be functioning properly.
  31. Test the operation of the remote control transmitter when it is installed in the docking station (if equipped) for use from the platform as upper controls.
    • Slowly shift each joystick that is labeled Push to Operate out of neutral without pushing down on the joystick, and verify that the functions do not operate.
    • If the transmitter contains controls for digger and pole guide, shift each of these controls out of neutral briefly, and verify that the functions do not operate.
    • Operate each function through its full range of motion, and observe for proper operation.
  32. Inspect the fiberglass upper boom and boom tip and the fiberglass jib for any condition that could reduce the structural integrity and/or the limited dielectric properties including the following items:
    • Dirt, moisture, oil or grease, foreign objects.
    • Damage, including chipped or scratched surfaces or cracks.
  33. Inspect the platform(s), liner(s), and platform attachment(s) for any condition that could reduce the structural integrity and/or the limited dielectric properties. Also inspect the personal fall protection system(s) for any damage or deterioration. Inspection should include the following items:
    • No dirt and foreign objects.
    • No damage to platform or liner surfaces, including chipped or scratched surfaces.
    • No holes in the platform or liner.
    • Platform mounting pin and platform mounting fasteners secure.
    • No moisture, oil, or grease on surfaces.
    • No fraying or damage to the harness straps or lanyard of the personal fall protection system.
    • Connectors at the end of the personal fall protection system lanyard in good condition with properly functioning latches.
  34. Inspect the winch line for good condition, proper reeving at the boom tip, and proper spooling on the winch drum.
  35. Verify the material handling attachment and/or load hook are in good condition and properly secured to the end of the winch line. Confirm that any originally equipped latch on the load hook is in place and working properly.
  36. Inspect the auger windup sling condition. A worn or damaged sling can fail, causing a free-swinging auger.
    • Replace a wire rope auger windup sling immediately if it shows four or more broken wires and/or signs of wear.
    • Replace a synthetic auger windup sling immediately if it has cut strands and/or external wear.
  37. Verify that each outrigger is still extended to the appropriate position. If any retraction has occurred, the outrigger cylinder or its holding valve is not functioning properly.
  38. If the unit is being inspected at the location where it will be used, confirm that the ground conditions are adequate for proper support of the outriggers, and verify that the unit is level within specifications.
  39. If the unit is not being inspected at the location where it will be used, prepare the unit for travel.

D. Use

Mount and Dismount

  1. Always use three-point contract when mounting or dismounting the machine.
  2. Never mount or dismount while carrying tools or objects that prevent three-point contact.
  3. Face the machine when you enter or leave the machine.
  4. Clean shoes and wipe hands. Clean steps and handholds of chemical residue, snow, ice, mud, or oil.
  5. During mounting and dismounting:
    • Use handholds and step plates.
    • Never use steering wheels, joysticks, or controls as handholds.
    • Never jump on or off the machine.
    • Never mount or dismount from a moving machine.
  6. Before starting, completely walk around the machine. Make sure no one is under the machine, on it or close to it. Let others know you are starting up and don’t start until everyone is completely clear of the machine.

Starting the Engine

  1. Sit in the operator’s seat and adjust the seat so you can operate all the controls properly.
  2. Fasten the seat belt/operator restraint.
  3. Familiarize yourself with warning devices, gauges, and operating controls.
  4. Lower the operator seat/restraint bars (if equipped).
  5. Make sure controls are in the neutral/locked position.
  6. Clear the area of all persons.
  7. Sound horn.
  8. Start engine.
  9. After starting engine observe gauges, instruments, and warning lights to assure that they are functioning and their readings are within the operating range.
  10. Run an operating check. Do not use a machine that is not in proper operating condition.
  11. Test controls. Make sure the machine is operating properly by doing the following:
    • With the control levers or joysticks in neutral, test engine speed control.
    • Operate each pedal, lever, or joystick to make sure all lift arm and tilt functions are correct.
    • Operate the travel control lever(s) or joysticks to ensure correct operation in forward and reverse. Test steering to the right and to the left, while moving slowing in a clear, safe area.
    • Ensure all controls are clearly marked and returned to neutral after operation.

Ground Level Controls

  1. The ground level functions/machine selector handle is located on the tailshelf of the unit.
  2. The engine speed control switch is located on the tailshelf near the ground level functions/machine selector handle.
    • Move the switch to the High position to increase the engine speed when operating the outriggers or tools.
    • Move the switch to the Low position when operating the truck.
  3. Controls for the outriggers are located at the tailshelf.
    • Shifting an outrigger control handle to the Lower position lowers the outrigger.
    • Shifting an outrigger control handle to the Raise position raises the outrigger.
    • The control returns to neutral when released.

Setting Outriggers on Level Surface

  1. When the booms stowed, lower the outriggers to a firm footing.
  2. Lower the outriggers as far as possible while allowing the vehicle to be level and with all tire3s maintaining contract with the ground surface.
  3. Lower the outriggers approximately 3″ after reaching ground level.

Setting Outriggers on Sloping Surface

  1. With the booms stowed, lower the low side outriggers to a firm footing.
  2. Lower the high side outriggers only after a firm footing has been reached with the low side outriggers.
  3. Lower the high side outriggers approximately 3″ after reaching ground level.
  4. Extend the low side outrigger to establish a level vehicle. Do not retract the high side outriggers.
  5. Lower the low side outriggers as far as possible while allowing the vehicle to be level. Do not extend the low side outriggers any farther if the vehicle gets to level.
    NOTE: It may not be possible to get the vehicle to 0 degrees (level) even with the low side outriggers at full extension.
  6. All tires on the high side should maintain contract with the ground surface. Tires on the low side of the slope may or may not remain in contact with the ground, depending on how much slope is present.

Lower Controls

  1. The lower controls enable pedal is located below the boom functions control valve at the left or right side of the seat platform.
  2. The foot throttle is located below the boom functions control valve at the right side of the riding seat platform.
  3. The hand throttle is located to the left of the boom functions control valve on the control panel.
  4. The auger release control is used to open the auger latch when stowing and unstowing the auger. The handle of the digger shift/auger release control is mechanically latched in the neutral position.
    • To operate the auger release, grasp the knob and pull up on the sleeve beneath the knob to unlock the handle.
    • Move the handle to the Auger Release position to open the auger latch.
    • Return the handle to the neutral position to return the auger latch to the closed position.
    • An internal spring returns the handle to the neutral position if it is released.
  5. The handle of the digger shift/auger release control is mechanically latched in the neutral position.
    • To operate the differ shift, grasp the knob and pull up on the sleeve beneath the knob to unlock the handle.
    • Move the handle to the Digger High Speed position to shift the digger speed to high. The detent will hold the handle in this position.
    • Move the control handle back to the neutral position to shift the digger speed to low.

Upper Controls

  1. Before operating the upper controls, move the controls selector handle on the lower control station to the Upper Controls position, and move the controls on/off handle to the upper control panel to the On position.
  2. To operate a boom position or winch control, push the slide gate to the left, and then move the control handle for the desired function to produce the desired direction and speed of function operation.
  3. The gate only needs to be pushed and held into the unlocked position during the initial actuation of a boom positioning or winch control. Once the lever is shifted, it will hold the gate in its unlocked position until the lever is returned to the neutral position.
  4. The speed of operation of the winch and the boom positioning functions is proportional to the distance the control handle is moved. More than one function can be operated at the same time.
  5. The transferable upper control panel may be pinned to the lower boom or the boom tip on the upper arm.
  6. Pull out and release the engine speed control to increase engine speed to a preset value to produce proper oil flow for upper control function operation.
  7. Pull out and release the control again to return engine speed to idle.
  8. The upper controls on/off handle should be returned to the Off position when the upper controls and tools are not in use.
  9. To operate the tools move the upper controls on/off handle to the On position, and then move the tools handle to the Tools On position.
  10. To turn the tool circuit off, move the handle to the Tools Off position, and then move the upper controls on/off handle to the Off position.
  11. To operate the engine start/stop function, pull the control out and release it as soon as the engine starts.
  12. To stop the engine, pull the control out and release it.

Lower Boom

  1. As the boom is lowered on a turntable winch unit, pay out the winch line to compensate for the increased rope length required between the winch drum and the boom tip sheave.
  2. Before lifting any load, rotate the booms to the load to prevent the winch line from pulling sideways on the booms.
  3. If the auger begins to corkscrew, shift the digger control handle to the Digger Clean position.
    • Back the auger out of the hole until normal digging can be resumed.
  4. When setting screw anchors, use the boom control handle to follow the anchor as it advances into the ground.
  5. As the boom extends, pay out the winch line to compensate for the increased rope length required between the winch drum and the boom tip sheave.
  6. Tilt the pole guide back and properly pin the transferable upper controls to the upper boom or lower boom, before extending the upper boom with the transferable flares pinned to the intermediate boom.

Boom Stowage

  1. When stowing the booms for transportation, first fully retract the intermediate and upper booms.
    • If a personnel platform is installed on the boom tip and the centered primary boom rest will be used, properly stow the platform and lock the platform brake.
    • If a personnel platform is installed on the boom tip and the off-center secondary boom rest will be used, remove the platform.
    • Position the lower boom carefully in the boom rest.
  2. When stowing the lower boom, lower it into the rest gently. When the system is engaged, it shuts off the boom lower function.

Rotation

  1. The rotation handle is used to rotate the turntable to the right (clockwise) or to the left (counterclockwise).
  2. Avoid rapid starts, stops and reversal of directions to minimize shock loads to the unit.
  3. When the rotation control handle is shifted, pressure begins to build in the rotation motor.
  4. When the control handle is returned to neutral, the hydraulic pressure in the motor decreases to zero.
  5. Before lifting the winch line, rotate the booms to the load.

Winch

  1. Shifting the winch control handle in the Raise position pays in the winch line.
  2. Shifting the winch control handle in the Lower position pays out the winch line.
  3. Meter the winch control handle when starting, stopping or reversing directions to minimize shock loads on the unit.
  4. Keep a minimum of eight (8) wraps of winch line on the winch drum at all times.
  5. When winding the winch drum, apply tension and observe the drum. Verify that consecutive winds lay side-by-side within each layer and that new layers do not cut into the lower layers.
    • If this occurs, the lower layer is too loose and must be rewound.
  6. Check the drum winding prior to loading the jib/winch. If there is any doubt the drum is not would properly, pay out the entire line, and wind it properly before applying a load.
  7. As the booms extend, pay out the winch line to compensate for the increase rope length required between the winch drum and the boom tip sheave.
  8. As the boom is lowered on a turntable winch unit, pay out the winch line to compensate for the increased rope length required between the winch drum and boom tip sheave.
  9. When lifting a load with the winch, operate the winch in a manner that avoids side loading the booms.
  10. Always rotate the booms to the load before lifting it.
  11. Do not use the winch to pull a pole that is firmly set in the ground. Use the pole puller to break the pole loose from the ground before using the winch to pull the pole out of the ground.
  12. Before removing the load hook from a load, always relieve all of the tension on the winch line.

Digger Unstowing

NOTE: All personnel must be clear of the area before stowing or unstowing the auger.

  1. Position the unit on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Engage the PTO and properly set the outriggers.
  2. Raise and rotate the booms high enough so that when the digger is lowered, it will clear the vehicle, obstacles, and all personnel.
  3. Make sure the intermediate boom is fully retracted. If the intermediate boom is not fully retracted, the digger transfer mechanism will not attach the digger hanger bracket to the intermediate boom.
  4. Make sure the digger is in low speed.
  5. On some chassis, it may be necessary to use the foot throttle or engine speed switch to increase the engine speed to maintain pressure to operate the digger and latch at the same time.
  6. Begin to unstow the auger using one of the following choices:
    • Shift the digger hand control slightly in the dig position until the auger rolls up enough to remove any slack in the auger windup sling and provide clearance for the latch to open. Press and hold the auger release switch to open the latch, and immediately return the digger hand control to neutral.
    • Press and hold the auger release switch to pressurize the latch cylinder. Shift the digger hand control slightly in the dig position until the auger rolls up enough to provide clearance for the latch to open. The latch will produce an audible click when it opens. Immediately return the digger hand control to neutral, and continue to hold the auger release switch.
  7. Shift the digger control handle slightly in the Digger Clean position until the auger begins to unroll form the windup sling. When the auger clears the latch, release the auger release control.
  8. Continue operating the digger slowly in the Digger Clean position until the auger windup sling swings free of the auger.

Digger Operation

  1. Jog the boom control handle to the Lower position while operating the digger control handle. Coordinate the boom and digger controls to exert various amounts of force and speed as needed for soil conditions.
  2. If the auger begins to corkscrew, shift the digger control handle to the Digger Clean position. Back the auger out of the hole until normal digging can be resumed.
  3. Use the boom lower, rotation, and intermediate boom extend functions to follow the auger as it advances into the ground.
  4. Never counteract the sideslip by shifting the rotation control handle in the opposite direction of the sideslip.
  5. Use the intermediate boom extend function to maintain alignment between the hole and auger shaft.
    • If alignment is not is not maintained the auger or auger extension shaft could bend. If the auger or auger extension shaft bends, stop the operation of the auger immediately. Aug or auger extension shaft must be straightened or replaced immediately.
    • Use caution when stowing an auger with a bent auger or auger extension shaft. The auger may not enter the stowage bracket during stowing, causing the windup sling or the clevis shear pin to fail.
  6. When the auger flighting is loaded with soil,
    • Raise the auger above the ground with the auger turning slowly.
    • Move the digger control handle back and forth between Digger Dig and Digger Clean to rapidly reverse the direction of motion of the auger.
    • Operator may also move the digger shift control to the Digger High Speed position and use the throttle to increase the auger speed to remove the soil.
  7. Keep hands and fingers clear when positioning the auger on the extension shaft and aligning the holes for the retaining cap screw.
  8. Depth of hole may be increased by repositioning the bolt at the top of the auger tube.
    • Remove the cap screw at the top of the auger tube.
    • Shift the boom control handle in the Boom Raise position, and pull the auger extension shaft up.
    • Replace the cap screw in one of the lower holes in the auger extension shaft.
  9. Always return the auger to its original top position on the auger extension shaft before stowing the auger.

Changing the Auger

NOTE: All personnel must be clear of the area before operating boom functions.

  1. Position the desired auger on the ground, clear of debris and obstructions.
  2. Unstow the current auger.
  3. Use one of the following procedures to remove the current auger.
    • Dig until approximately one-third of the auger is in the ground and it stands freely. Make sure the ground conditions support the weight of the auger. Remove the fasteners, and disconnect the auger from the auger extension shaft. Raise the boom until the auger extension shaft is clear of the auger.
    • Lower the boom until the tip of the auger touches the ground. Hook the loop at the end of the auger windup sling to the lug on the auger. Operate the digger hand control in the Dig position until the auger rolls into a diagonal position. Simultaneously extend and lower the boom until the auger lies horizontally on the ground. When the weight of the auger is fully supported by the ground, unbolt the auger from the auger extension shaft. Extend and raise the boom until the auger extension shaft is clear of the auger.
  4. Use one of the following procedures to install the desired auger.
    • Use a structure or stand to support the auger in a vertical position. Align the auger extension shaft over the auger, and lower the boom to insert the auger extension shaft into the auger. Use the fasteners to secure the auger to the auger extension shaft.
    • Position the auger horizontally on the ground. Wrap a strap around the auger extension shaft and the auger stow latch. Tighten the strap to pull the auger extension shaft into a horizontal position. Alternatively, hook the auger windup sling to the bolt on the auger extension shaft, and use the digger dig function to position the auger extension shaft horizontally. Align the auger extension shaft with the auger. Operate the boom functions to insert the auger extension shaft into the auger. Use the fasteners to secure the auger to the auger extension shaft.

Stowing Digger

  1. Fully retract the intermediate boom. Stowing the digger with the intermediate boom partially extended may cause the auger flighting to hit and damage the auger stow bracket.
  2. Move the digger shift control to the Low position.
  3. Rotate the boom to a position that will allow the boom and auger to clear all obstacles when the digger is stowed.
  4. Shift the boom control handle to lower the point of the auger to the ground.
  5. Hook the loop at the end of the auger windup sling on the lug on the auger.
  6. Operate the digger control handle slightly in the Dig position and raise the booms. Make certain the sling continues to wrap around the auger tube below the cable guide dish.
  7. Continue rolling the auger up slowly using the digger dig control. As the auger approaches the auger stow bracket, it will enter the stow bracket and push the latch open. It is not necessary to use the auger release switch to open the latch.
  8. When the latch closes under the auger, immediately return the digger hand control to neutral. The latch will produce an audible click when it closes. Then shift the digger hand control slightly in the clean direction to unroll the auger until it rests on the latch.

Pole Puller

  1. Do not pull a pole that is not within the unit’s load capacity. It may be necessary to reposition the booms so the load is within the unit’s load capacity.
  2. Before using the pole puller, make sure the booms are not elevated near unprotected energized lines.
  3. Make sure the ground around the pole is level. If the ground is not level, use a shovel to make a level area. If the ground cannot be made level or if it is soft, block up the base of the pole puller, until it is level. Do this by placing suitable material, such as wood or outrigger pads, under the base of the pole puller. The entire base of the pole puller must be firmly supported to prevent bending of the pole puller base.
  4. Position the base of the pole puller on the ground, next to the base of the pole.
  5. Position the pole puller cylinder on the base with the curved bracket at the bottom of the cylinder over the round bar.
  6. Place the D-ring on the pole puller chain over the lug on the rod end of the cylinder.
  7. Wrap the chain tightly around the pole one time. Insert a link from the free end of the chain in the slot of the lug.
  8. Attach the hydraulic tool circuit hoses to the cylinder. Make sure the quick disconnect couplers are firmly attached.
  9. Attach the winch line at the top of the pole. Use the winch line to support the pole once it is pulled loose from the ground by the pole puller.
  10. To use the tool circuit, the ground level functions/machine selector must be in the Ground Level Functions positions. Shift the tools control handle to the Tools On detent position. This will extend the pole puller cylinder. As the cylinder extends, the chain will tighten and start to lift the pole out of the ground.
  11. Fully extend the pole puller cylinder.
    • If the pole is still set in the ground, retract the cylinder.
    • Tighten the winch line.
    • Reposition the cylinder and chain against the pole and fully extend the cylinder.
  12. When the pole is loose from the ground, tighten the winch line. Remove the chain from the pole and move the pole puller away from the pole.
  13. Use the winch raise and boom up functions to lift the pole out of the ground.

Unstowing Personnel Platform

  1. Unlock the platform brake by rotating the handle away from the bottom of the platform.
  2. Lift up on the bottom of the platform to remove its weight from the detent pin.
  3. Locate the T-handle detent pin on the boom side of the platform support bracket. The detent pin is spring loaded. Pull out and rotate the T-handle until the short arm of the T-handle engages the notched tab to hold the pin out.
  4. Carefully lower the platform to the vertical position.

Stowing Personnel Platform

  1. Unlock the platform brake by rotating the handle away from the bottom of the platform.
  2. Locate the T-handle detent pin on the boom side of the platform support bracket. The detent pin is spring loaded. Disengage the detent pin. To do this, pull out the detent pin. Then turn it 90 degrees so the T-handle will clear the notched tab and allow the spring to pull the pin in.
  3. Normally, the stowed platform is positioned with the bottom of the platform toward the pedestal of the unit. However, if the platform is mounted on the same side of the boom as the auger stow bracket, the platform is stowed with the bottom of the platform away from the pedestal. Swing the platform in the appropriate direction and left it up until the detent pin snaps into the hole in the brake disc.
  4. Always lock the platform brake before road travel. Lock the platform brake by rotating the handle toward the platform.
  5. If the off-center secondary boom rest will be used for road travel, remove the platform as described.
    • Remove the platform retaining pin that goes through the mounting socket on the boom tip.
    • Pull the entire assembly out of the platform mounting socket.
    • To aid in reinstalling the platform later, lubricate the inside of the platform mounting socket with anti-seize compound.

E. Maintenance

  1. Periodically wash the fiberglass with mild detergent in warm water. Do not scratch the boom surface.
  2. If the unit is equipped with a platform, do not allow it to contact fixed objects such as poles and trees. Keep the platform clean by periodically washing it with mild detergent in warm water.
  3. Do not allow debris, tools, etc. to accumulate on the unit.
  4. When cleaning with high pressure washers or steam cleaning equipment do not directly spray the electrical components or control panels.

F. Live Line Contact

  1. Immediately stop work.
  2. Treat equipment, attachments and ground as energized.
  3. Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred.
  4. DO NOT exit equipment and stay inside cab while contact or arcing is occurring.
  5. Ensure equipment is barricaded.
  6. If there is an immediate hazard (i.e. fire hazard) that requires the exiting of equipment employee shall jump out of equipment with both feet together, landing on the ground.
  7. Employee shall than shuffle away from equipment, not walk or run, taking small steps and feet together to minimize voltage difference in the ground until they reach a safe location.

IV. Reference Documents

Digger Derrick Manuals

Digger Derrick Maintenance Log

Digger Derrick Logout Tagout 

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