1820 Operator's Manual

1820 - SERVICE 1 1820 - SERVICE 1
SERIAL NUMBER RECORD SERIAL NUMBER RECORD
SERVICE SERVICE
SERIAL NUMBER RECORD SERIAL NUMBER RECORD
Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided.
Serial number plate is mounted on model plate under flaps, as Serial number plate is mounted on model plate under flaps, as
shown. shown.
om1635 om1635
Date of purchase Date of purchase
Serial number Serial number
Engine serial number Engine serial number

2 1820 - SERVICE 2 1820 - SERVICE
SUPPORT PROCEDURE SUPPORT PROCEDURE
SUPPORT PROCEDURE SUPPORT PROCEDURE
Notify your dealer immediately of any malfunction or failure of Notify your dealer immediately of any malfunction or failure of
Ditch Witch equipment. Ditch Witch equipment.
Always give model, serial number, and approximate date of Always give model, serial number, and approximate date of
equipment purchase. This information should be recorded and equipment purchase. This information should be recorded and
placed on file by owner at time of purchase. placed on file by owner at time of purchase.
Return damaged parts to dealer for inspection and warranty Return damaged parts to dealer for inspection and warranty
consideration. consideration.
Order genuine Ditch Witch replacement parts from your Order genuine Ditch Witch replacement parts from your
authorized ditch Witch dealer. Use of another manufacturer’s authorized ditch Witch dealer. Use of another manufacturer’s
parts may void warranty. parts may void warranty.
RESOURCES RESOURCES
Publications Publications
Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for publications and videos Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for publications and videos
covering safety, operation, service, and repair of your equipment. covering safety, operation, service, and repair of your equipment.
Ditch Witch Training Ditch Witch Training

For information about on-site, individualized training, contact your For information about on-site, individualized training, contact your
Ditch Witch dealer. Ditch Witch dealer.
1820 - FOREWORD 3 1820 - FOREWORD 3
FOREWORD FOREWORD
This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides
safety information and operation instructions to help you use and safety information and operation instructions to help you use and
maintain your Ditch Witch equipment. maintain your Ditch Witch equipment.
Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the
equipment at all times for future reference. If you sell your equipment at all times for future reference. If you sell your
equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner. equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer.
If you need assistance in locating a dealer, visit our website at If you need assistance in locating a dealer, visit our website at
www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address: www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address:
The Charles Machine Works, Inc. The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Attn: Marketing Department Attn: Marketing Department
PO Box 66 PO Box 66
Perry, OK 73077-0066 Perry, OK 73077-0066
USA USA
The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to
change. The Charles Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to change. The Charles Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to
improve equipment. Some product improvements may have improve equipment. Some product improvements may have
taken place after this manual was published. For the latest taken place after this manual was published. For the latest
information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your Ditch Witch information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your Ditch Witch
dealer. dealer.
Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment. Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment.
4 1820 - FOREWORD 4 1820 - FOREWORD
Operator's Manual Operator's Manual

1820 1820
Issue Number 5.3/OP-5/09 Issue Number 5.3/OP-5/09
Part Number 054-485 Part Number 054-485
Copyright 1994, 1995, 2003, 2004, 2009 Copyright 1994, 1995, 2003, 2004, 2009
by The Charles Machine Works, Inc., by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.,
Perry, Oklahoma, 73077-0066. Perry, Oklahoma, 73077-0066.
, Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd, , Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd,

Modularmatic, Jet Trac, Roto Witch, Subsite, Fluid Miser, Perma- Modularmatic, Jet Trac, Roto Witch, Subsite, Fluid Miser, Perma-
Soil, Power Pipe, Super Witch, Super Witch II, Pierce Airrow, The Soil, Power Pipe, Super Witch, Super Witch II, Pierce Airrow, The
Underground, and The Underground Authority Worldwide are Underground, and The Underground Authority Worldwide are
registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc. registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
1820 - CONTENTS 5 1820 - CONTENTS 5
CONTENTS CONTENTS
SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Serial Number Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Serial Number Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Support Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Support Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Underground Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Underground Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Safety Alert Classifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Safety Alert Classifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Safety Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Safety Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
TRANSPORTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 TRANSPORTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Lifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Lifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6 1820 - CONTENTS 6 1820 - CONTENTS
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Inspect Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Inspect Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
TRENCHING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 TRENCHING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Operating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Operating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
DRILLING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 DRILLING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Drilling Attachment Control Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . 44 Drilling Attachment Control Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . 44
Prepare Jobsite and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Prepare Jobsite and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Drill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Drill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Add Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Add Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Backream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Backream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Disassemble Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Disassemble Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
LUBRICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 LUBRICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Hydraulic Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Hydraulic Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Pivot Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Pivot Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Trail Wheel Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Trail Wheel Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Cross and Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Cross and Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Reducer Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Reducer Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
1820 - CONTENTS 7 1820 - CONTENTS 7
MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Headshaft Sprocket Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Headshaft Sprocket Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Trenching Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Trenching Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
8 1820 - CONTENTS 8 1820 - CONTENTS
1820 - OVERVIEW 9 1820 - OVERVIEW 9
OVERVIEW OVERVIEW
The Ditch Witch 1820 is a self-propelled, walk-along, The Ditch Witch 1820 is a self-propelled, walk-along,
hydraulically steered, two-wheel drive trencher designed to dig in hydraulically steered, two-wheel drive trencher designed to dig in
a variety of soils and move large volumes of dirt in a short time. a variety of soils and move large volumes of dirt in a short time.
With an optional drilling unit attached, it is also designed to drill With an optional drilling unit attached, it is also designed to drill
short distances. short distances.
om1641x om1641x
A. Control Panel A. Control Panel
B. Restraint Bar B. Restraint Bar
C. Digging Chain/Boom C. Digging Chain/Boom
D. Trail Wheel D. Trail Wheel
E. Drive Wheel E. Drive Wheel

10 1820 - OVERVIEW 10 1820 - OVERVIEW
1820 - CONTROLS 11 1820 - CONTROLS 11
CONSOLE CONSOLE
CONTROLS CONTROLS
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Gasoline Engine Diesel Engine Gasoline Engine Diesel Engine
om1783 om1783a om1783 om1783a
1. Axle lock (blue) 9. Ignition switch 1. Axle lock (blue) 9. Ignition switch
2. Boom control (green) 10. Voltmeter 2. Boom control (green) 10. Voltmeter
3. Oil pressure indicator 11. Hourmeter 3. Oil pressure indicator 11. Hourmeter
4. Operator presence switch 12. Choke (gas only) 4. Operator presence switch 12. Choke (gas only)
(red) (red)
13. Throttle 13. Throttle
5. Speed/Direction control 5. Speed/Direction control
14. Battery disconnect switch 14. Battery disconnect switch
(orange) (orange)
(diesel only) (diesel only)
6. Hydraulic pump control 6. Hydraulic pump control
15. Water temperature gauge 15. Water temperature gauge
(orange) (orange)
7. Roto Witch control 7. Roto Witch control
16. Glow plug indicator (diesel 16. Glow plug indicator (diesel
(optional) (optional)
only) only)
8. Digging chain control 8. Digging chain control
(yellow) (yellow)
12 1820 - CONTROLS 12 1820 - CONTROLS
CONSOLE CONSOLE
DESCRIPTIONS DESCRIPTIONS
Axle Lock (blue) Axle Lock (blue)

This lever locks axle (two-wheel drive) This lever locks axle (two-wheel drive)
or unlocks axle (one-wheel drive). or unlocks axle (one-wheel drive).
• Pull to unlock axle. Use unlocked • Pull to unlock axle. Use unlocked
axle to turn trencher. axle to turn trencher.
• Push to lock axle. Use locked axle • Push to lock axle. Use locked axle
for straight trenching. for straight trenching.
ic1034 ic1034
Boom Control (green) Boom Control (green)

This lever raises or lowers digging This lever raises or lowers digging
boom. Can be used only when engine boom. Can be used only when engine
is running. is running.
• Push to lower. • Push to lower.

• Pull to raise. • Pull to raise.
ic1033 ic1033
Oil Pressure Indicator Oil Pressure Indicator

This light indicates low oil pressure. This light indicates low oil pressure.
Light will come on briefly when engine Light will come on briefly when engine
is started. If light comes on when is started. If light comes on when
engine is running: engine is running:
• Turn engine off. • Turn engine off.

• Check oil level. • Check oil level.
om1008.pcx om1008.pcx
• Check for leaks before starting • Check for leaks before starting
engine. engine.
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Operator Presence Switch Operator Presence Switch

(red) (red)
This button prevents machine from This button prevents machine from
running when digging or driving unless running when digging or driving unless
operator is pressing switch. Operator operator is pressing switch. Operator
presence switch is on top of speed/ presence switch is on top of speed/
direction control. direction control.
Speed/Direction Control Speed/Direction Control

(orange) (orange)
This lever controls unit speed and This lever controls unit speed and
direction. direction.
• Push to move toward digging • Push to move toward digging

boom. boom.
• Pull to move toward operator • Pull to move toward operator
ic0029h ic0029h
position. position.
• To go faster in either direction, • To go faster in either direction,
move control farther from center (neutral) position. move control farther from center (neutral) position.
• To stop, return to neutral position. • To stop, return to neutral position.
• To turn, move control to left or right while it is in forward, • To turn, move control to left or right while it is in forward,
neutral, or reverse position. neutral, or reverse position.
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Hydraulic Pump Control Hydraulic Pump Control

(orange) (orange)
This lever is used to help start cold This lever is used to help start cold
engine. engine.
• Push to engage • Push to engage

• Pull to disengage. • Pull to disengage.
ic1036 ic1036
Roto Witch Control Roto Witch Control

This lever controls optional boring This lever controls optional boring
attachment. Refer to Roto Witch attachment. Refer to Roto Witch
Operator's Manual for additional Operator's Manual for additional
information. information.
• Push to rotate clockwise. • Push to rotate clockwise.

• Pull to rotate counterclockwise. • Pull to rotate counterclockwise.
ic1085b ic1085b
Digging Chain Control (yellow) Digging Chain Control (yellow)

This lever controls digging chain action This lever controls digging chain action
and speed. and speed.
• Push to start digging chain. • Push to start digging chain.

• Pull to stop digging chain. • Pull to stop digging chain.
ic1035a ic1035a
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Ignition Switch Ignition Switch

This switch is used to start engine. This switch is used to start engine.
Gasoline Engines: Gasoline Engines:
• Insert key and turn it clockwise to • Insert key and turn it clockwise to
start position (C). start position (C).
• When engine starts, release key. It • When engine starts, release key. It
ic1084 ic1084
will return to on position (B). will return to on position (B).
• If engine does not start or is killed, turn switch to off position • If engine does not start or is killed, turn switch to off position
(A), then restart. (A), then restart.
Diesel Engines: Diesel Engines:
• Insert key and turn it clockwise to on position (B). Glow plug • Insert key and turn it clockwise to on position (B). Glow plug
indicator will light as engine heats. indicator will light as engine heats.
• When glow plug indicator goes out, turn key to start position • When glow plug indicator goes out, turn key to start position
(C). (C).
• When engine starts, release key. It will return to on position • When engine starts, release key. It will return to on position
(B). (B).
• If engine does not start or is killed, turn switch to off position • If engine does not start or is killed, turn switch to off position
(A), then restart. (A), then restart.
Voltmeter Voltmeter
This gauge measures voltage in This gauge measures voltage in
electric system. Reading should be electric system. Reading should be
between 12 and 15 volts with engine between 12 and 15 volts with engine
running. If not, stop engine and running. If not, stop engine and
investigate. investigate.
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Hourmeter Hourmeter
This gauge records operating time. Use This gauge records operating time. Use
to schedule lubrication and to schedule lubrication and
maintenance. maintenance.
Choke (gas only) Choke (gas only)

This knob helps start cold engine. This knob helps start cold engine.
• Pull Choke before starting. • Pull Choke before starting.

• Push Choke in completely when • Push Choke in completely when
engine has warmed. engine has warmed.
Throttle Throttle
This lever regulates engine speed. This lever regulates engine speed.
• Push toward rabbit to increase • Push toward rabbit to increase

engine speed. engine speed.
• Pull toward turtle to slow engine. • Pull toward turtle to slow engine.
ic1032 ic1032
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Water Temperature Gauge Water Temperature Gauge

This gauge displays temperature of This gauge displays temperature of
water in cooling system. water in cooling system.
Glow Plug Indicator Glow Plug Indicator

This indicator lights when glow plug is This indicator lights when glow plug is
heating. heating.
NOTICE: Do not turn ignition switch to NOTICE: Do not turn ignition switch to
start until glow plug indicator goes out. start until glow plug indicator goes out.
For complete starting instructions, see For complete starting instructions, see
OPERATION. ic0026h OPERATION. ic0026h
CONSOLE CONSOLE
Battery Disconnect Battery Disconnect

Use for shut-off, when servicing, and Use for shut-off, when servicing, and
during long-term storage. during long-term storage.
Battery disconnect is optional on Battery disconnect is optional on

gasoline engines (top illustration) and gasoline engines (top illustration) and
standard on diesel engines (bottom standard on diesel engines (bottom
illustration). illustration).
om1749 om1749
Gasoline engine: Gasoline engine:
• Turn clockwise to connect battery • Turn clockwise to connect battery

power. power.
• Turn counterclockwise to • Turn counterclockwise to
disconnect battery power. disconnect battery power.
Diesel engine: Diesel engine:
• Turn counterclockwise to connect om1486.pcx • Turn counterclockwise to connect om1486.pcx

battery power. battery power.
• Turn clockwise to disconnect • Turn clockwise to disconnect
battery power. battery power.
1820 - SAFETY 19 1820 - SAFETY 19
CONSOLE CONSOLE
SAFETY SAFETY
Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment: Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment:
• Complete proper training and read operator’s manual before • Complete proper training and read operator’s manual before
using equipment. using equipment.
• Contact your local One-Call or utility company. Have all • Contact your local One-Call or utility company. Have all
underground lines and cables located and marked before underground lines and cables located and marked before
operating equipment. If you damage a utility, contact utility operating equipment. If you damage a utility, contact utility
company. company.
• Classify jobsite based on its hazards and use correct • Classify jobsite based on its hazards and use correct
equipment, safety equipment, and work methods for jobsite. equipment, safety equipment, and work methods for jobsite.
• Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away. • Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away.
• Wear personal protective gear. • Wear personal protective gear.
• Review jobsite hazards, safety and emergency procedures, • Review jobsite hazards, safety and emergency procedures,
and individual responsibilities with all personnel before work and individual responsibilities with all personnel before work
begins. begins.
• Replace missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs. • Replace missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs.
• Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate • Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate
anything that does not look or feel right. anything that does not look or feel right.
• Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question • Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question
about operation, maintenance, or equipment use. about operation, maintenance, or equipment use.
When you see this safety alert sign, carefully read When you see this safety alert sign, carefully read
and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT
STAKE. STAKE.
20 1820 - SAFETY 20 1820 - SAFETY
UNDERGROUND HAZARDS UNDERGROUND HAZARDS
UNDERGROUND HAZARDS UNDERGROUND HAZARDS
Striking underground hazards can cause explosion, electrocution, Striking underground hazards can cause explosion, electrocution,
fire, and exposure to hazardous materials. fire, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Hazards include: Hazards include:
• Electric cables • Electric cables

• Natural gas pipes • Natural gas pipes
• Fiber optic cables • Fiber optic cables
• Water lines • Water lines
• Sewer lines • Sewer lines
• Pipes carrying other chemicals, liquids, or gases • Pipes carrying other chemicals, liquids, or gases
• Storage tanks • Storage tanks
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
If an Electric Line is Damaged If an Electric Line is Damaged

If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off
tractor, DO NOT TOUCH TRACTOR. Take the following actions. tractor, DO NOT TOUCH TRACTOR. Take the following actions.
The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation. The order and degree of action will depend upon the situation.
• LEAVE AREA. • LEAVE AREA.

• Contact utility company to shut off power. • Contact utility company to shut off power.
• Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given • Do not return to jobsite or allow anyone into area until given
permission by utility company. permission by utility company.
1820 - SAFETY 21 1820 - SAFETY 21
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
If a Gas Line is Damaged If a Gas Line is Damaged

If you suspect a gas line has been damaged, take the following If you suspect a gas line has been damaged, take the following
actions. The order and degree of action will depend on the actions. The order and degree of action will depend on the
situation. situation.
• Immediately shut off engine(s), if this can be done safely and • Immediately shut off engine(s), if this can be done safely and
quickly. quickly.
• Remove any ignition source(s), if this can be done safely and • Remove any ignition source(s), if this can be done safely and
quickly. quickly.
• Warn others that a gas line has been cut and that they should • Warn others that a gas line has been cut and that they should
leave the area. leave the area.
• Leave jobsite as quickly as possible. • Leave jobsite as quickly as possible.
• Immediately call your local emergency phone number and • Immediately call your local emergency phone number and
utility company. utility company.
• If jobsite is along street, stop traffic from driving near jobsite. • If jobsite is along street, stop traffic from driving near jobsite.
• Do not return to jobsite until given permission by emergency • Do not return to jobsite until given permission by emergency
personnel and utility company. personnel and utility company.
If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged

Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable. Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable.
Vision damage can occur. Vision damage can occur.
If Machine Catches on Fire If Machine Catches on Fire

Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the
following actions. The order and degree of action will depend on following actions. The order and degree of action will depend on
the situation. the situation.
• Immediately move battery disconnect switch (if equipped) to • Immediately move battery disconnect switch (if equipped) to
disconnect position. disconnect position.
• If fire is small and fire extinguisher is available, attempt to • If fire is small and fire extinguisher is available, attempt to
extinguish fire. extinguish fire.
If fire cannot be extinguished, leave area as quickly as possible If fire cannot be extinguished, leave area as quickly as possible
and contact emergency personnel. and contact emergency personnel.
22 1820 - SAFETY 22 1820 - SAFETY
SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS
SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS
You will see the following safety symbols: You will see the following safety symbols:
indicates an imminently hazardous situation indicates an imminently hazardous situation

which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
In this book, you should look for two other words: NOTICE and In this book, you should look for two other words: NOTICE and
IMPORTANT. IMPORTANT.
NOTICE can keep you from doing something that might damage NOTICE can keep you from doing something that might damage
the machine or someone's property. It may also be used to alert the machine or someone's property. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices. against unsafe practices.
IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job
easier in some way. easier in some way.
1820 - SAFETY 23 1820 - SAFETY 23
SAFETY ALERTS SAFETY ALERTS
Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or

presence of gas will cause sickness or death. presence of gas will cause sickness or death.
Provide ventilation. Provide ventilation.
Moving digging teeth will kill you or Moving digging teeth will kill you or
cut off arm or leg. Stay away. cut off arm or leg. Stay away.
NOTICE: Keep everyone at least 6’ (2 m) away from equipment NOTICE: Keep everyone at least 6’ (2 m) away from equipment
while operating. while operating.
Electrical shock. Contacting Electrical shock. Contacting

electrical lines will cause death or serious injury. electrical lines will cause death or serious injury.
Know location of lines and stay away. Know location of lines and stay away.
24 1820 - SAFETY 24 1820 - SAFETY
Turning shaft will kill you or crush Turning shaft will kill you or crush
arm or leg. Stay away. arm or leg. Stay away.
Jobsite hazards Jobsite hazards

could cause death or serious injury. could cause death or serious injury.
Use correct equipment and work Use correct equipment and work
methods. Use and maintain proper methods. Use and maintain proper
safety equipment. safety equipment.
NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Do not bore within 10’ (3 m) of electric cables or gas pipes. • Do not bore within 10’ (3 m) of electric cables or gas pipes.
• Park, unload, and load trailer on level part of jobsite. • Park, unload, and load trailer on level part of jobsite.
• To prevent tipping, connect trailer to tow vehicle before • To prevent tipping, connect trailer to tow vehicle before
loading or unloading. loading or unloading.
• Keep digging boom low when operating on slopes. Drive • Keep digging boom low when operating on slopes. Drive
slowly and cautiously at all times. slowly and cautiously at all times.
1820 - SAFETY 25 1820 - SAFETY 25
Crushing weight could cause Crushing weight could cause

death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and
equipment or stay away. equipment or stay away.
Runaway possible. Machine could Runaway possible. Machine could

run over you or others. Learn how to use all run over you or others. Learn how to use all
controls. Start and operate only from operator's controls. Start and operate only from operator's
position. position.
Improper control function could Improper control function could

cause death or serious injury. If control does not cause death or serious injury. If control does not
work as described in instructions, stop machine work as described in instructions, stop machine
and have it repaired. and have it repaired.
NOTICES: NOTICES:
• If interlock system does not work, contact your Ditch Witch • If interlock system does not work, contact your Ditch Witch
dealer. Improper repair may allow machine to start or operate dealer. Improper repair may allow machine to start or operate
with a control in wrong position. with a control in wrong position.
• Do not wire or tape operator presence switch. • Do not wire or tape operator presence switch.
26 1820 - SAFETY 26 1820 - SAFETY
Incorrect procedures could result Incorrect procedures could result

in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use in death, injury, or property damage. Learn to use
equipment correctly. equipment correctly.
NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Keep attachments low when operating on slope. Drive slowly • Keep attachments low when operating on slope. Drive slowly
and cautiously at all times. and cautiously at all times.
• Machine may move when chain starts to dig. Allow 3’ (1m) • Machine may move when chain starts to dig. Allow 3’ (1m)
between end of chain and obstacle. between end of chain and obstacle.
• Digging chain on top side of boom can catch on root or rock. • Digging chain on top side of boom can catch on root or rock.
Stand back from console and hold controls loosely. Stand back from console and hold controls loosely.
• Unless otherwise instructed, all service should be performed • Unless otherwise instructed, all service should be performed
with engine shut off. with engine shut off.
• Refer to engine manufacturer's manual for engine • Refer to engine manufacturer's manual for engine
maintenance instructions. maintenance instructions.
• Before servicing equipment, lower digging boom to ground. • Before servicing equipment, lower digging boom to ground.
1820 - SAFETY 27 1820 - SAFETY 27
Fluid or air under pressure could Fluid or air under pressure could
pierce skin and cause injury or death. Stay away. pierce skin and cause injury or death. Stay away.
NOTICE: Escaping pressurized fluid can cause injury or pierce NOTICE: Escaping pressurized fluid can cause injury or pierce
skin and poison. skin and poison.
• Before disconnecting lines, turn engine off and operate • Before disconnecting lines, turn engine off and operate
system controls to relieve pressure. system controls to relieve pressure.
• Before using system, check that all connections are tight and • Before using system, check that all connections are tight and
all lines are undamaged. all lines are undamaged.
• Fluid leaks can be hard to detect. Use a piece of cardboard or • Fluid leaks can be hard to detect. Use a piece of cardboard or
wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks. wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks.
• Wear protective clothing and eye protection. • Wear protective clothing and eye protection.
• If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention from a • If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention from a
doctor familiar with this type of injury. doctor familiar with this type of injury.
28 1820 - SAFETY 28 1820 - SAFETY
Battery acid may cause burns. Battery acid may cause burns.
Avoid contact. Avoid contact.
Hot parts may cause burns. Do Hot parts may cause burns. Do
not touch until cool. not touch until cool.
1820 - TRANSPORTATION 29 1820 - TRANSPORTATION 29
LIFTING LIFTING
TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION
LIFTING LIFTING
Lifting Points Lifting Points

Lifting points are identified by lifting decals. Lifting points are identified by lifting decals.
Lifting at any other point is unsafe and can Lifting at any other point is unsafe and can
damage machinery. damage machinery.
Lifting Unit Lifting Unit

Before lifting, check Before lifting, check
SPECIFICATIONS. Use a crane SPECIFICATIONS. Use a crane
capable of supporting the capable of supporting the
equipment’s size and weight. equipment’s size and weight.
Lift trencher by running sling Lift trencher by running sling

through lift points and through trail through lift points and through trail
wheel housing. wheel housing.
Crushing weight could cause Crushing weight could cause

death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and death or serious injury. Use proper procedures and
equipment or stay away. equipment or stay away.
30 1820 - TRANSPORTATION 30 1820 - TRANSPORTATION
HAULING HAULING
HAULING HAULING
Trencher can be hauled by trailer. Before hauling check the Trencher can be hauled by trailer. Before hauling check the
following: following:
• Check that loading ramps will support weight. See • Check that loading ramps will support weight. See
SPECIFICATIONS. SPECIFICATIONS.
• Check that adequate tiedowns are available. • Check that adequate tiedowns are available.

NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Park, unload, and load trailer on level part of jobsite. • Park, unload, and load trailer on level part of jobsite.
• To prevent tipping, connect trailer to tow vehicle before • To prevent tipping, connect trailer to tow vehicle before
loading or unloading. loading or unloading.
LOADING LOADING
LOADING LOADING
Load Machine Load Machine

1. Start machine following instructions in OPERATION. 1. Start machine following instructions in OPERATION.
2. Push boom control (green) to lower boom as far as possible 2. Push boom control (green) to lower boom as far as possible
without hitting ramps. without hitting ramps.
3. Engage axle lock (blue). 3. Engage axle lock (blue).
4. Push throttle (black) to 1/2 open. 4. Push throttle (black) to 1/2 open.
EMERGENCY STOP: Release operator presence switch. EMERGENCY STOP: Release operator presence switch.
5. Move speed/direction control (orange) to forward or reverse 5. Move speed/direction control (orange) to forward or reverse
position. position.
To turn, move speed/direction control left or right. To turn, move speed/direction control left or right.
6. Align trencher with ramps or trailer, boom first. 6. Align trencher with ramps or trailer, boom first.
7. Guide trencher onto trailer. 7. Guide trencher onto trailer.
8. When tie down position is reached, move speed/direction 8. When tie down position is reached, move speed/direction
control (orange) to neutral position. control (orange) to neutral position.
9. Push boom control (green) to lower boom. 9. Push boom control (green) to lower boom.
10. Disengage pump control. 10. Disengage pump control.
11. Pull throttle to turtle. 11. Pull throttle to turtle.
12. Turn key to off position. 12. Turn key to off position.
13. Close fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine. 13. Close fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine.
14. Tiedown trencher to trailer. 14. Tiedown trencher to trailer.
LOADING LOADING
Unload Machine Unload Machine

1. Remove tiedowns from trencher. 1. Remove tiedowns from trencher.
2. Open fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine. 2. Open fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine.
3. Start machine. 3. Start machine.
4. Slowly engage pump control. 4. Slowly engage pump control.
5. Move throttle (black) to 1/2 open. 5. Move throttle (black) to 1/2 open.
6. Engage axle lock (blue). 6. Engage axle lock (blue).
7. Pull boom control (green) to raise boom halfway. 7. Pull boom control (green) to raise boom halfway.
8. Use speed/direction control (orange) to slowly back trencher 8. Use speed/direction control (orange) to slowly back trencher
off trailer or down ramps. off trailer or down ramps.
TOWING TOWING
TOWING TOWING
This trencher is not designed to be towed. If it must be moved This trencher is not designed to be towed. If it must be moved
without its own power, optional Spare Hub Assembly should be without its own power, optional Spare Hub Assembly should be
used. used.
Spare Hub Assembly is designed for temporary use for distances Spare Hub Assembly is designed for temporary use for distances
less than 500’ (150 m) at slow rate of speed. Assembly should less than 500’ (150 m) at slow rate of speed. Assembly should
only be used for towing. only be used for towing.
Spare hub assembly is stored near right drive tire, under guard. Spare hub assembly is stored near right drive tire, under guard.
Optional Spare Hub Assembly Optional Spare Hub Assembly

1. Remove guard covering assembly. 1. Remove guard covering assembly.
2. Remove two mounting bolts and remove assembly from 2. Remove two mounting bolts and remove assembly from
storage position. storage position.
3. Securely block right side of trencher. Right wheel should be 3. Securely block right side of trencher. Right wheel should be
off ground. off ground.
IMPORTANT: On diesel units, right tire and wheel assembly IMPORTANT: On diesel units, right tire and wheel assembly
is filled with tire ballast and weighs approximately 127 lb is filled with tire ballast and weighs approximately 127 lb
(58 kg). (58 kg).
4. Remove right wheel. 4. Remove right wheel.
5. Place assembly on lug bolts and attach with lug nuts. If 5. Place assembly on lug bolts and attach with lug nuts. If
wrench will not fit through access holes, remove snap ring wrench will not fit through access holes, remove snap ring
and outer flange, tighten lug nuts, and replace flange and and outer flange, tighten lug nuts, and replace flange and
snap ring. snap ring.
6. Remove lug nuts from spare hub assembly bolts. 6. Remove lug nuts from spare hub assembly bolts.
7. Place right wheel on assembly. 7. Place right wheel on assembly.
8. Securely fasten wheel with lug nuts. 8. Securely fasten wheel with lug nuts.
9. Lower trencher. 9. Lower trencher.
10. Push axle lock to disengage. Machine will freewheel. 10. Push axle lock to disengage. Machine will freewheel.
11. Slowly tow trencher. 11. Slowly tow trencher.
1820 - OPERATION 35 1820 - OPERATION 35
INSPECT MACHINE INSPECT MACHINE
OPERATION OPERATION
INSPECT MACHINE INSPECT MACHINE
For safe and efficient use of your machine, check the following For safe and efficient use of your machine, check the following
before each day's work. Refer to LUBRICATION and before each day's work. Refer to LUBRICATION and
MAINTENANCE for additional information. MAINTENANCE for additional information.
• General appearance. • General appearance.

• Condition of digging chain, teeth, drive belts, and air filter. • Condition of digging chain, teeth, drive belts, and air filter.
• Fuel lines and fittings for signs of leakage, wear, or other • Fuel lines and fittings for signs of leakage, wear, or other
damage. damage.
• Tire pressure. Use reliable tire pressure gauge. • Tire pressure. Use reliable tire pressure gauge.
• Engine oil level. Keep oil level at highest line on dipstick. • Engine oil level. Keep oil level at highest line on dipstick.
• Hydraulic oil level. Keep oil level between high and low marks • Hydraulic oil level. Keep oil level between high and low marks
on dipstick. on dipstick.
• Fuel level. Fill tank at end of day to reduce condensation. • Fuel level. Fill tank at end of day to reduce condensation.
• Water level in diesel units. Keep overflow bottle 1/4 to 3/4 full. • Water level in diesel units. Keep overflow bottle 1/4 to 3/4 full.
Add antifreeze as needed. Add antifreeze as needed.
• Signs are in place and readable. • Signs are in place and readable.
• Guards and shields are in place. • Guards and shields are in place.
• Nuts and bolts are tight. Tighten as specified in torque tables • Nuts and bolts are tight. Tighten as specified in torque tables
in PARTS MANUAL. in PARTS MANUAL.
36 1820 - OPERATION 36 1820 - OPERATION
START-UP START-UP
START-UP START-UP
Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or

presence of gas will cause sickness or death. presence of gas will cause sickness or death.
Provide ventilation. Provide ventilation.

IMPORTANT: Read engine manufacturer's starting and IMPORTANT: Read engine manufacturer's starting and
operating instructions. Follow directions for new engine break-in. operating instructions. Follow directions for new engine break-in.
1. Disengage pump control (orange). 1. Disengage pump control (orange).

2. Check that speed/direction control (orange) is in neutral 2. Check that speed/direction control (orange) is in neutral
position. position.
3. Check that digging chain control (yellow) is at stop position. 3. Check that digging chain control (yellow) is at stop position.
4. Open fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine. 4. Open fuel shut-off valve on gasoline engine.
1820 - OPERATION 37 1820 - OPERATION 37
START-UP START-UP
6. Start engine. If engine does not start within ten seconds, 6. Start engine. If engine does not start within ten seconds,
release key, allow starter motor to cool, and try to start again. release key, allow starter motor to cool, and try to start again.
If engine does not start after three tries, check machine. If engine does not start after three tries, check machine.
Gasoline Engine: Gasoline Engine:
Choke cold engine. Put key in ignition and turn to start posi- Choke cold engine. Put key in ignition and turn to start posi-
tion. When engine starts, release key. Push choke in. tion. When engine starts, release key. Push choke in.
Diesel Engine: Diesel Engine:
Put key in ignition and turn to on position until glow plug indi- Put key in ignition and turn to on position until glow plug indi-
cator goes out. Turn key to start position. When engine starts, cator goes out. Turn key to start position. When engine starts,
release key. release key.
7. Engage pump control (orange) slowly. 7. Engage pump control (orange) slowly.
8. Idle engine 3-5 minutes before moving. Engine will idle with 8. Idle engine 3-5 minutes before moving. Engine will idle with
digging chain disengaged and speed/direction control in digging chain disengaged and speed/direction control in
neutral position. neutral position.
9. Check controls for correct operation. 9. Check controls for correct operation.

and have it repaired. and have it repaired.
NOTICES: NOTICES:
• If interlock system does not work, contact Ditch Witch dealer. • If interlock system does not work, contact Ditch Witch dealer.
Improper repair may allow machine to start or operate with a Improper repair may allow machine to start or operate with a
control in wrong position. control in wrong position.
• Do not wire or tape operator presence switch. • Do not wire or tape operator presence switch.
38 1820 - OPERATION 38 1820 - OPERATION
DRIVE DRIVE
DRIVE DRIVE

NOTICE: Keep attachments low when operating NOTICE: Keep attachments low when operating
on slope. Drive slowly and cautiously at all times. on slope. Drive slowly and cautiously at all times.

IMPORTANT: Keep hand on operator presence switch or IMPORTANT: Keep hand on operator presence switch or
machine will not run. machine will not run.
1. Raise or lower boom. 1. Raise or lower boom.

• Pull boom control (green) to raise boom. • Pull boom control (green) to raise boom.
• In rough terrain, push boom control (green) to lower • In rough terrain, push boom control (green) to lower
boom for better stability. boom for better stability.
2. Engage or disengage axle lock. 2. Engage or disengage axle lock.
• On level ground, pull axle lock (blue) to disengage. • On level ground, pull axle lock (blue) to disengage.
• In rough terrain, push axle lock (blue) to engage. • In rough terrain, push axle lock (blue) to engage.
4. Depress operator presence switch and move speed/direction 4. Depress operator presence switch and move speed/direction
control (orange) to forward or reverse position. control (orange) to forward or reverse position.
5. To turn move speed/direction control (orange) to left or right. 5. To turn move speed/direction control (orange) to left or right.
1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 39 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 39
DRIVE DRIVE
TRENCHING ATTACHMENT TRENCHING ATTACHMENT
1. Move trencher to starting point. 1. Move trencher to starting point.

2. Move speed/direction control to neutral position. 2. Move speed/direction control to neutral position.
3. Push axle lock (blue) to engage. 3. Push axle lock (blue) to engage.
5. Push boom control (green) until boom is 1” (25 mm) from 5. Push boom control (green) until boom is 1” (25 mm) from
ground. ground.
Moving digging teeth will kill you or Moving digging teeth will kill you or
cut off arm or leg. Stay away. cut off arm or leg. Stay away.
NOTICE: Keep everyone at least 6’ (2 m) away from equipment NOTICE: Keep everyone at least 6’ (2 m) away from equipment
while operating. while operating.
Electrical shock. Contacting Electrical shock. Contacting

electrical lines will cause death or serious injury. electrical lines will cause death or serious injury.
Know location of lines and stay away. Know location of lines and stay away.
40 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 40 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT
DRIVE DRIVE

NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Do not dig within 10’ (3 m) of electric cables or gas pipes. • Do not dig within 10’ (3 m) of electric cables or gas pipes.
6. Push digging chain control to start digging chain. 6. Push digging chain control to start digging chain.
7. Push boom control (green) slowly to lower digging chain to 7. Push boom control (green) slowly to lower digging chain to
trench depth. trench depth.

NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Machine will lurch when chain starts to dig. Allow 3’ (1 m) • Machine will lurch when chain starts to dig. Allow 3’ (1 m)
between end of chain and obstacle. between end of chain and obstacle.
• Digging chain on top side of boom can catch on root or rock. • Digging chain on top side of boom can catch on root or rock.
Stand back from console and hold controls loosely. Stand back from console and hold controls loosely.
1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 41 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 41
DRIVE DRIVE
8. When trench depth is reached, push throttle (black) to 8. When trench depth is reached, push throttle (black) to
increase engine speed. increase engine speed.
9. Pull speed/direction control (orange). Trencher will move 9. Pull speed/direction control (orange). Trencher will move
toward you. toward you.
Trenching movement is toward you. Trenching movement is toward you.
om1642 om1642
10. When trench is finished, move speed/direction control 10. When trench is finished, move speed/direction control
(orange) to neutral position. (orange) to neutral position.
11. Pull throttle (black) to 1/2 open. 11. Pull throttle (black) to 1/2 open.
12. Raise boom (green) to top of trench. 12. Raise boom (green) to top of trench.
13. Pull digging chain control (yellow) to stop position. 13. Pull digging chain control (yellow) to stop position.
14. Raise boom (green) completely. 14. Raise boom (green) completely.
15. Use speed/direction control (orange) to move trencher away 15. Use speed/direction control (orange) to move trencher away
from trench. Let engine idle a few minutes to cool, then turn from trench. Let engine idle a few minutes to cool, then turn
ignition off. ignition off.
42 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT 42 1820 - TRENCHING ATTACHMENT
OPERATING TIPS OPERATING TIPS
• Avoid digging with badly worn digging teeth. When replacing • Avoid digging with badly worn digging teeth. When replacing
old teeth, maintain original tooth pattern. Use Ditch Witch old teeth, maintain original tooth pattern. Use Ditch Witch
replacement teeth for best trenching results. replacement teeth for best trenching results.
• Operate engine at full throttle under load for most productive • Operate engine at full throttle under load for most productive
trenching. If soil conditions permit, operating in this range trenching. If soil conditions permit, operating in this range
gives longer engine life and more efficient use of available gives longer engine life and more efficient use of available
engine horsepower. engine horsepower.
• Use slower digging chain speed in hard soil. Use alligator • Use slower digging chain speed in hard soil. Use alligator
chain in frozen or rocky soil. chain in frozen or rocky soil.
• When beginning trench near a wall or fence, allow enough • When beginning trench near a wall or fence, allow enough
distance between boom and footings, drains, and cables. distance between boom and footings, drains, and cables.
• Use correct digging boom length. Shortest turn may be made • Use correct digging boom length. Shortest turn may be made
with boom fully down. with boom fully down.
• When cutting across asphalt roads, start trench in soil at • When cutting across asphalt roads, start trench in soil at
edge of road and dig with shortest possible boom at full edge of road and dig with shortest possible boom at full
digging depth. digging depth.
• For a clean trench floor, use optional trench cleaner. • For a clean trench floor, use optional trench cleaner.
• When straight trenching across a slope, it can be helpful to • When straight trenching across a slope, it can be helpful to
stake 4x4” wood beam parallel to intended course and just far stake 4x4” wood beam parallel to intended course and just far
enough from trench to guide downslope wheel. enough from trench to guide downslope wheel.
• Trenching a straight line is easier with wheels turned slightly • Trenching a straight line is easier with wheels turned slightly
to auger side of machine. to auger side of machine.
1820 - DRILLING ATTACHMENT 43 1820 - DRILLING ATTACHMENT 43
DRILLING ATTACHMENT DRILLING ATTACHMENT

Turning shaft will kill you or Turning shaft will kill you or
crush arm or leg. Stay away. crush arm or leg. Stay away.
NOTICE: Keep everybody at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill pipe NOTICE: Keep everybody at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill pipe
during operation. Do not straddle trench or drill pipe while during operation. Do not straddle trench or drill pipe while
drilling. drilling.

could cause death or serious could cause death or serious
injury. Use correct equipment injury. Use correct equipment
and work methods. Use and and work methods. Use and
maintain proper safety maintain proper safety
equipment. equipment.
NOTICE: Set up warning barriers and keep people away from NOTICE: Set up warning barriers and keep people away from
equipment and jobsite while drilling. equipment and jobsite while drilling.
Incorrect procedures could Incorrect procedures could

result in death, injury, or property damage. result in death, injury, or property damage.
Learn to use equipment correctly. Learn to use equipment correctly.

and have it serviced. and have it serviced.
NOTICE: Do not tape or tie down switch or lever. NOTICE: Do not tape or tie down switch or lever.
44 1820 - DRILLING ATTACHMENT 44 1820 - DRILLING ATTACHMENT
DRILLING ATTACHMENT CONTROL DESCRIPTION DRILLING ATTACHMENT CONTROL DESCRIPTION
DRILLING ATTACHMENT CONTROL DRILLING ATTACHMENT CONTROL

DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION
Drilling Control Drilling Control

This switch controls drill string This switch controls drill string
rotation. rotation.
• To rotate clockwise, press top. • To rotate clockwise, press top.

• To rotate counterclockwise, • To rotate counterclockwise,
press bottom. press bottom.
IMPORTANT: Always rotate c00ic084a.eps IMPORTANT: Always rotate c00ic084a.eps
clockwise during drilling and clockwise during drilling and

backreaming. Rotate backreaming. Rotate
counterclockwise only to counterclockwise only to
dislodge a dry bore bit or dislodge a dry bore bit or
reamer that has siezed in reamer that has siezed in
the bore hole. the bore hole.
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
• This switch is spring-loaded and will automatically stop the • This switch is spring-loaded and will automatically stop the
drilling attachment when released. drilling attachment when released.
• If using only remote handle, switch will not be mounted on • If using only remote handle, switch will not be mounted on
dash. dash.
PREPARE JOBSITE AND EQUIPMENT PREPARE JOBSITE AND EQUIPMENT

1 1
2 2
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Approach Trench (1) Approach Trench (1)

1. Mark path where you intend to drill. 1. Mark path where you intend to drill.
2. Dig an approach trench (1) along the intended drill path. 2. Dig an approach trench (1) along the intended drill path.
IMPORTANT: The approach trench should be at least: IMPORTANT: The approach trench should be at least:
• deep enough for pipe to lay flat and enter soil • deep enough for pipe to lay flat and enter soil
at correct angle at correct angle
• 20’ (6 m) long • 20’ (6 m) long
• 4" (100 mm) wide • 4" (100 mm) wide
Target Trench (2) Target Trench (2)

1. Select a completion point for the drilling project. 1. Select a completion point for the drilling project.
2. Dig a target trench (2) across the anticipated completion 2. Dig a target trench (2) across the anticipated completion
point. point.
IMPORTANT: The actual length of the target trench IMPORTANT: The actual length of the target trench
depends on soil conditions and length of pipe sections. depends on soil conditions and length of pipe sections.
Make it deep enough for drill bit to enter slightly above Make it deep enough for drill bit to enter slightly above
the trench floor. the trench floor.
Drill Pipe and Equipment Drill Pipe and Equipment
om0540h.eps om0540h.eps
1. Assemble at least 20’ (6 m), but not more than 30’ (9 m), of 1. Assemble at least 20’ (6 m), but not more than 30’ (9 m), of
drill rod. drill rod.
NOTICE: More than 10-15’ (3-4.5 m) of drill rod out of NOTICE: More than 10-15’ (3-4.5 m) of drill rod out of
the trench increases the tendency of drill rod to bend. the trench increases the tendency of drill rod to bend.
2. Install drill bit to the cutting end of the drill string. 2. Install drill bit to the cutting end of the drill string.
3. Put drill string in approach trench. 3. Put drill string in approach trench.
4. Move tractor to the approach trench and align the drilling 4. Move tractor to the approach trench and align the drilling
attachment with the intended bore path. attachment with the intended bore path.
5. Turn off engine. 5. Turn off engine.
6. Attach drill string to drilling attachment. 6. Attach drill string to drilling attachment.
DRILL DRILL
DRILL DRILL
EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN: Release drilling control and turn EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN: Release drilling control and turn
ignition switch to STOP. ignition switch to STOP.
1. Start tractor’s engine and begin clockwise (forward) rotation. 1. Start tractor’s engine and begin clockwise (forward) rotation.
2. Slowly advance tractor while maintaining clockwise rotation. 2. Slowly advance tractor while maintaining clockwise rotation.
NOTICE: NOTICE:
• Drilling too quickly causes bit to drift off course and may • Drilling too quickly causes bit to drift off course and may
bend drill rod. After drill path is established, speed may be bend drill rod. After drill path is established, speed may be
slightly increased. slightly increased.
• If drill rod starts to bend, stop forward movement of unit • If drill rod starts to bend, stop forward movement of unit
and back the unit slightly until rod straightens. Do not drill and back the unit slightly until rod straightens. Do not drill
with bent rod. with bent rod.
• If drill rod hits an obstruction, rotate drill string • If drill rod hits an obstruction, rotate drill string
counterclockwise to back up slightly. counterclockwise to back up slightly.
DRILL DRILL
Using Drill String Guide Using Drill String Guide
Turning shaft will kill you or Turning shaft will kill you or
crush arm or leg. Stay away. crush arm or leg. Stay away.
NOTICE: Keep everybody at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill rod NOTICE: Keep everybody at least 10’ (3 m) away from drill rod
during operation. Do not straddle trench or drill rod while drilling. during operation. Do not straddle trench or drill rod while drilling.
Use drill string guide to align drill Use drill string guide to align drill
string as it enters the soil. When string as it enters the soil. When
using drill string guide, follow these using drill string guide, follow these
guidelines: guidelines:
• Use only approved • Use only approved

Ditch Witch drill string guide (p/n Ditch Witch drill string guide (p/n
179-737). 179-737).
• Stand only on the left side of the • Stand only on the left side of the
approach trench. approach trench.
• Keep drill string guide at least 3’ • Keep drill string guide at least 3’
(1 m) behind bit. om0342c.eps (1 m) behind bit. om0342c.eps
• Use drill string guide to control • Use drill string guide to control
only the first 5’ (1.5 m) of the bore path. only the first 5’ (1.5 m) of the bore path.
• After drilling 5’ (1.5 m), stop unit and remove drill string guide. • After drilling 5’ (1.5 m), stop unit and remove drill string guide.
• Do not use drill string guide during backreaming or any time • Do not use drill string guide during backreaming or any time
the drill string is being pulled back. the drill string is being pulled back.
ADD ROD ADD ROD
ADD ROD ADD ROD

1. Stop drilling attachment. 1. Stop drilling attachment.
2. Back up tractor 6" (150 mm) to loosen drill rod in ground. 2. Back up tractor 6" (150 mm) to loosen drill rod in ground.
3. Disconnect drill rod from drilling attachment. 3. Disconnect drill rod from drilling attachment.
4. Move tractor away from bore. 4. Move tractor away from bore.
5. Add one drill rod to continue bore. 5. Add one drill rod to continue bore.
BACKREAM BACKREAM
After drill bit enters target trench, the bore hole may be enlarged After drill bit enters target trench, the bore hole may be enlarged
by changing the drill bit to a backreamer and drawing it back by changing the drill bit to a backreamer and drawing it back
through the initial bore. through the initial bore.
1. Turn tractor ignition switch to STOP. 1. Turn tractor ignition switch to STOP.
2. Replace drill bit with backreamer. 2. Replace drill bit with backreamer.
3. Start tractor engine and begin clockwise rotation. 3. Start tractor engine and begin clockwise rotation.
IMPORTANT: Always rotate clockwise during IMPORTANT: Always rotate clockwise during
backreaming. Rotate counterclockwise only to dislodge backreaming. Rotate counterclockwise only to dislodge
a dry bore bit or reamer that has siezed in the bore hole. a dry bore bit or reamer that has siezed in the bore hole.
4. Slowly back up tractor while maintaining rotation. 4. Slowly back up tractor while maintaining rotation.
5. When backreamer exits the bore hole, stop rotation 5. When backreamer exits the bore hole, stop rotation
immediately. immediately.
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
• Do not try to increase hole size too much in one pass. • Do not try to increase hole size too much in one pass.
Several passes using successively larger reamers will Several passes using successively larger reamers will
save wear on machine. save wear on machine.
• During backreaming, keep drill string straight. Sharp bends • During backreaming, keep drill string straight. Sharp bends
in the drill rod at the motor coupling can cause rod failure. in the drill rod at the motor coupling can cause rod failure.
DISASSEMBLE JOINTS DISASSEMBLE JOINTS
DISASSEMBLE JOINTS DISASSEMBLE JOINTS
1. Press tab through hole in 1. Press tab through hole in

female side of joint using female side of joint using
special tool or screwdriver. special tool or screwdriver.
2. Pull rods apart. 2. Pull rods apart.
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Drill Rod Drill Rod
Bent or damaged drill rod might break when being pushed. Bent or damaged drill rod might break when being pushed.
Replacement drill rod and connectors are available through your Replacement drill rod and connectors are available through your
Ditch Witch dealer. Ditch Witch dealer.
Bits and Backreamers Bits and Backreamers
Bits and backreamers are available in a variety of sizes and types Bits and backreamers are available in a variety of sizes and types
to match jobsite needs. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for more to match jobsite needs. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for more
information. information.
1820 - LUBRICATION 51 1820 - LUBRICATION 51
LUBRICATION LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication and maintenance protects Ditch Witch Proper lubrication and maintenance protects Ditch Witch
equipment from damage and failure. equipment from damage and failure.
Use only recommended lubricants. Fill to capacities listed in Use only recommended lubricants. Fill to capacities listed in
SPECIFICATIONS. SPECIFICATIONS.
Recommended Lubricants Recommended Lubricants

AGMA-7 Worm gear lubricant matching American Gear Manufacturer’s AGMA-7 Worm gear lubricant matching American Gear Manufacturer’s
Association Compound #7 Association Compound #7
GEO Gasoline Engine Oil meeting API service classification SD GEO Gasoline Engine Oil meeting API service classification SD
DEO Diesel Engine Oil (SAE 10W40) meeting API engine service DEO Diesel Engine Oil (SAE 10W40) meeting API engine service
classification SF/CD or CE classification SF/CD or CE
MPG Multipurpose grease MPG Multipurpose grease
MPL Multipurpose lubricant 80W90 MPL Multipurpose lubricant 80W90

THF Tractor hydraulic fluid, similar to Phillips 66 HG, Mobilfluid 432, THF Tractor hydraulic fluid, similar to Phillips 66 HG, Mobilfluid 432,
Chevron tractor hydraulic fluid, Texaco TDH oil, or equivalent Chevron tractor hydraulic fluid, Texaco TDH oil, or equivalent

NOTICES: NOTICES:
• Refer to engine manufacturer's manual for engine • Refer to engine manufacturer's manual for engine
52 1820 - LUBRICATION 52 1820 - LUBRICATION
LUBRICATION SCHEDULE LUBRICATION SCHEDULE
Gasoline engine oil Gasoline engine oil

Diesel engine oil Diesel engine oil
Multipurpose lubricant (MPL) 80W90 Multipurpose lubricant (MPL) 80W90
Multipurpose lubricant (AGMA-7) Multipurpose lubricant (AGMA-7)
Multipurpose grease Multipurpose grease
Tractor hydraulic fluid (THF) Tractor hydraulic fluid (THF)

Interval Task Page Interval Task Page

10 hours Check engine oil 54 10 hours Check engine oil 54
Check hydraulic oil 55 Check hydraulic oil 55
20 hours Change engine oil (initial) 54 20 hours Change engine oil (initial) 54
50 hours Lube pivot tube 57 50 hours Lube pivot tube 57
Lube trail wheel 57 Lube trail wheel 57
Check axle reducer box oil 58 Check axle reducer box oil 58
Change axle reducer box (initial) 58 Change axle reducer box (initial) 58
Change headshaft reducer box (initial) 59 Change headshaft reducer box (initial) 59
75 hours Change engine oil and filter (diesel) 54 75 hours Change engine oil and filter (diesel) 54
100 hours Change engine oil and filter (gas) 54 100 hours Change engine oil and filter (gas) 54
250 hours Change hydraulic oil and filter 55 250 hours Change hydraulic oil and filter 55
Lube cross and bearings 57 Lube cross and bearings 57
500 hours Change axle reducer box 58 500 hours Change axle reducer box 58
Change headshaft reducer box 59 Change headshaft reducer box 59
ENGINE OIL ENGINE OIL
ENGINE OIL ENGINE OIL
Check Oil Check Oil

Honda engine: Kubota engine: Honda engine: Kubota engine:
om1665a om0046h om1665a om0046h
Check engine oil every 10 hours. Maintain engine oil level at full Check engine oil every 10 hours. Maintain engine oil level at full
mark on dipstick. Use GEO in Kohler or Honda engine; use DEO mark on dipstick. Use GEO in Kohler or Honda engine; use DEO
in Kubota engine. in Kubota engine.
• Check at dipstick (B). • Check at dipstick (B).

• Add oil at fill (A). • Add oil at fill (A).
Change Oil Change Oil

Change engine oil after first 20 hours of operation, then every Change engine oil after first 20 hours of operation, then every
100 hours (gasoline engines) or 75 hours (diesel engine). Drain is 100 hours (gasoline engines) or 75 hours (diesel engine). Drain is
under left fender behind tire. under left fender behind tire.
Change Filter Change Filter

Change engine oil filter each time engine oil is changed. Change engine oil filter each time engine oil is changed.
HYDRAULIC OIL HYDRAULIC OIL
Check Hydraulic Oil Check Hydraulic Oil

Check hydraulic oil every 10 hours. Check hydraulic oil every 10 hours.
• Raise boom fully and turn rear • Raise boom fully and turn rear
wheels to the left (D). wheels to the left (D).
• Clean cap and tube before • Clean cap and tube before
removing dipstick (A). om1033.pcx
removing dipstick (A). om1033.pcx
• Refill to full mark with THF. • Refill to full mark with THF.
Change Hydraulic Oil and Change Hydraulic Oil and

Filter Filter
Change hydraulic oil and filter every Change hydraulic oil and filter every
250 hours. 250 hours.
• Drain at plug (C). • Drain at plug (C).

• Fill with 5.5 gal (21 L) THF at • Fill with 5.5 gal (21 L) THF at
dipstick (A). dipstick (A).
om1670 om1670
• Replace hydraulic oil filter (B). • Replace hydraulic oil filter (B).
Fluid or air under pressure could Fluid or air under pressure could
pierce skin and cause injury or death. Stay away. pierce skin and cause injury or death. Stay away.
NOTICE: Escaping pressurized fluid can cause injury or pierce NOTICE: Escaping pressurized fluid can cause injury or pierce
skin and poison. skin and poison.
• Before disconnecting lines, turn engine off and operate • Before disconnecting lines, turn engine off and operate
system controls to relieve pressure. system controls to relieve pressure.
• Before using system, check that all connections are tight and • Before using system, check that all connections are tight and
all lines are undamaged. all lines are undamaged.
• Fluid leaks can be hard to detect. Use a piece of cardboard or • Fluid leaks can be hard to detect. Use a piece of cardboard or
wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks. wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks.
• Wear protective clothing and eye protection. • Wear protective clothing and eye protection.
PIVOT TUBE PIVOT TUBE
PIVOT TUBE PIVOT TUBE
Lube two pivot tube zerks near base of Lube two pivot tube zerks near base of
digging chain every 50 hours with digging chain every 50 hours with
MPG. MPG.
TRAIL WHEEL BEARING TRAIL WHEEL BEARING
Lube each trail wheel bearing every 50 Lube each trail wheel bearing every 50
hours with MPG. hours with MPG.
CROSS AND BEARINGS CROSS AND BEARINGS
Lube cross and bearing every 250 Lube cross and bearing every 250
hours with MPG. hours with MPG.
om1666 om1666
REDUCER BOXES REDUCER BOXES
Axle Reducer Box Axle Reducer Box

Check axle reducer box oil every 50 hours. Check axle reducer box oil every 50 hours.
Change axle reducer box oil after first 50 hours of operation and Change axle reducer box oil after first 50 hours of operation and
then every 500 hours. then every 500 hours.
• Turn tires fully to left. • Turn tires fully to left.

• Remove fill plug (A) through access hole. • Remove fill plug (A) through access hole.
• Remove drain plug (B). • Remove drain plug (B).
• When drained, clean and replace plug. • When drained, clean and replace plug.
• Refill with 2.5 pints (1.2 L) AGMA-7. • Refill with 2.5 pints (1.2 L) AGMA-7.
Headshaft Reducer Box Headshaft Reducer Box

Check headshaft reducer box oil after every 500 hours. Check headshaft reducer box oil after every 500 hours.
Change headshaft reducer box oil after first 50 hours of operation Change headshaft reducer box oil after first 50 hours of operation
and then every 500 hours. and then every 500 hours.
• Remove gear box fill plug (B) through access hole. Oil should • Remove gear box fill plug (B) through access hole. Oil should
be at bottom of fill opening threads. be at bottom of fill opening threads.
• Drain at plug (A). • Drain at plug (A).
• Refill gear box with 2.5 pint (1.2 L) MPL. • Refill gear box with 2.5 pint (1.2 L) MPL.
• Do not overfill. • Do not overfill.
1820 - MAINTENANCE 61 1820 - MAINTENANCE 61
MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
See ENGINE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE for further See ENGINE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE for further

NOTICES: NOTICES:
62 1820 - MAINTENANCE 62 1820 - MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE SCHEDULE
SCHEDULE SCHEDULE
Gasoline Engine: Gasoline Engine:
om1015 om1015
Diesel Engine: Diesel Engine:
om1015a om1015a
SCHEDULE SCHEDULE
Hours Ref. Task Page Hours Ref. Task Page

10 1 Check tire pressure 72 10 1 Check tire pressure 72
2 Adjust digging chain tension 73 2 Adjust digging chain tension 73
25 3 Wash and oil air filter precleaner 68 25 3 Wash and oil air filter precleaner 68
50 4 Check battery 66 50 4 Check battery 66
5 Check belt tension 71 5 Check belt tension 71
100 6 Replace air filter paper element and 68 100 6 Replace air filter paper element and 68
precleaner (gas only) precleaner (gas only)
7 Check drive wheel end play and lug 72 7 Check drive wheel end play and lug 72
nuts nuts
8 Check fuel filter 65 8 Check fuel filter 65
9 Check cooling fins 70 9 Check cooling fins 70
200 10 Replace fuel filter 65 200 10 Replace fuel filter 65
500 5 Change belts 71 500 5 Change belts 71
2000 9 Change coolant (diesel only) 70 2000 9 Change coolant (diesel only) 70
4 Change battery 67 4 Change battery 67
As 11 Torque headshaft sprocket bolts 71 As 11 Torque headshaft sprocket bolts 71
needed needed
12 Check fuel level 64 12 Check fuel level 64
FUEL FUEL
FUEL FUEL
Level Level
Check fuel level each use. Check fuel level each use.
Gasoline engine: Use high-quality unleaded gasoline only. Gasoline engine: Use high-quality unleaded gasoline only.
om0050h om0050h
Diesel engine: Use number 2 diesel only. Diesel engine: Use number 2 diesel only.
om0045 om0045
FUEL FUEL
Filter Filter
Check fuel filter for blockage every 100 hours. Replace blocked Check fuel filter for blockage every 100 hours. Replace blocked
filters. filters.
Replace fuel filter every 200 hours. Replace fuel filter every 200 hours.
om0049h om0049h
om0041h om0041h
BATTERY BATTERY
BATTERY BATTERY
Battery acid may cause burns. Battery acid may cause burns.
Avoid contact. Avoid contact.
Hot parts may cause burns. Do not Hot parts may cause burns. Do not
touch until cool. touch until cool.
Check Check
Check battery fluid level every 50 hours. Fill cavity with enough Check battery fluid level every 50 hours. Fill cavity with enough
distilled water to cover plates. Do not overfill. distilled water to cover plates. Do not overfill.
Keep battery case and terminals clean. Remove corrosion from Keep battery case and terminals clean. Remove corrosion from
terminals with wire brush. Wash terminals with baking soda and terminals with wire brush. Wash terminals with baking soda and
water solution. Apply coat of grease to cable clamps after water solution. Apply coat of grease to cable clamps after
cleaning. cleaning.
BATTERY BATTERY
Charge Charge
In cold weather, check battery charge frequently. If water is In cold weather, check battery charge frequently. If water is
added during freezing weather, charge battery immediately. added during freezing weather, charge battery immediately.
If battery will not hold charge, replace with one meeting If battery will not hold charge, replace with one meeting
requirements listed in SPECIFICATIONS. requirements listed in SPECIFICATIONS.
Change Change
Replace battery every 2000 hours. Replace battery every 2000 hours.
om0044h om0044h
AIR FILTER AIR FILTER
Gasoline Engine Gasoline Engine

Clean every 25 hours. Clean every 25 hours.
• Clean and oil air filter precleaner. • Clean and oil air filter precleaner.
• Clean paper element. • Clean paper element.
• Clean inside of air filter housing with damp cloth and allow to • Clean inside of air filter housing with damp cloth and allow to
dry. dry.
• Inspect parts and tighten or replace if necessary. • Inspect parts and tighten or replace if necessary.
Replace air filter precleaner and paper element every 100 hours. Replace air filter precleaner and paper element every 100 hours.
1. Foam rubber precleaner 1. Foam rubber precleaner

2. Machine screws 2. Machine screws
3. Rubber gasket 3. Rubber gasket
4. Paper air filter element 4. Paper air filter element
5. Rubber gasket 5. Rubber gasket
6. Cover 6. Cover
7. Wing bolt 7. Wing bolt
Diesel Engine Diesel Engine

Clean every 100 hours. Clean every 100 hours.
• Wipe clean. Use compressed air to clean element. • Wipe clean. Use compressed air to clean element.
• Inspect filter. • Inspect filter.
Replace every 1000 hours or every six cleanings. Replace every 1000 hours or every six cleanings.
1. Housing. 1. Housing.
2. Bottom cup 2. Bottom cup
3. Baffle 3. Baffle
4. Element 4. Element
om0000c om0000c
COOLING SYSTEM COOLING SYSTEM
Cooling Fins Cooling Fins

Clean cooling fins on cylinder head Clean cooling fins on cylinder head
and barrel every 100 hours. On diesel and barrel every 100 hours. On diesel
engines, check radiator for dirt in fins. engines, check radiator for dirt in fins.
Radiator (Diesel engine) Radiator (Diesel engine)

Change coolant every 2000 hours. Change coolant every 2000 hours.
Check at overflow tank (2). Drain at Check at overflow tank (2). Drain at
plug (3). Fill with antifreeze or coolant plug (3). Fill with antifreeze or coolant
at fill (1) until tank is full and overflow at fill (1) until tank is full and overflow
tank to half-full. tank to half-full.
om0042h om0042h
BELTS BELTS
BELTS BELTS
Check belts for wear and proper Check belts for wear and proper
tension every 50 hours. Do not tension every 50 hours. Do not
overtighten. Keep oils, grease, and overtighten. Keep oils, grease, and
fuel off belts. fuel off belts.
Check belts by measuring tension Check belts by measuring tension

springs. With axle lock engaged, springs. With axle lock engaged,
spring A should be 3.2” (8 cm) and om1668 spring A should be 3.2” (8 cm) and om1668
spring B should be 5” (13 cm). Tighten spring B should be 5” (13 cm). Tighten
nuts to adjust springs. nuts to adjust springs.
HEADSHAFT SPROCKET BOLTS HEADSHAFT SPROCKET BOLTS
Torque headshaft sprocket bolts to 50 Torque headshaft sprocket bolts to 50

ft•lb (68 N•m) every 200 hours. ft•lb (68 N•m) every 200 hours.
om1668 om1668
WHEELS AND TIRES WHEELS AND TIRES
WHEELS AND TIRES WHEELS AND TIRES
Tire Pressure Tire Pressure

Check tires with gauge before Check tires with gauge before
operating machine. operating machine.
• Drive tires (A) recommended • Drive tires (A) recommended

maximum pressure is 22 psi maximum pressure is 22 psi
(1.5 bar). (1.5 bar).
• Trail tire (B) recommended • Trail tire (B) recommended
pressure is 32 psi (2.2 bar). pressure is 32 psi (2.2 bar).
Drive Wheels Drive Wheels

Check for loose drive wheels every Check for loose drive wheels every
100 hours. 100 hours.
• Block wheels. • Block wheels.

• Shake drive wheels. • Shake drive wheels.
• If loose, remove roll pin (C) and • If loose, remove roll pin (C) and
tighten castle nut (A). Do not tighten castle nut (A). Do not
overtighten; wheels should turn overtighten; wheels should turn
smoothly. smoothly.
• Replace roll pin (C). • Replace roll pin (C).
• Torque lug nuts (B) to 85 ft•lb • Torque lug nuts (B) to 85 ft•lb
(115 N•m). (115 N•m).
Chain Wear Chain Wear

Replace worn or broken chains. If sidebars are bending or getting Replace worn or broken chains. If sidebars are bending or getting
loose on chain pins, chain spacers should be used to join loose on chain pins, chain spacers should be used to join
sidebars. sidebars.
Digging Chain Digging Chain

Visually check digging chains for wear on rollers and sidebars. Visually check digging chains for wear on rollers and sidebars.
Check pins and bushing wear by measuring distance between Check pins and bushing wear by measuring distance between
chain pins and comparing it to new chain. chain pins and comparing it to new chain.
Replace sprockets when new chain is installed. Replace sprockets when new chain is installed.
To remove digging chain: To remove digging chain:
1. Start unit, following directions in OPERATION section. 1. Start unit, following directions in OPERATION section.
2. Turn digging chain until connector pin is on top of boom. 2. Turn digging chain until connector pin is on top of boom.
3. Lower boom to ground. 3. Lower boom to ground.
4. Stop engine. 4. Stop engine.
5. Secure chain. 5. Secure chain.
Sprocket booms - Lock rear idler sprocket. Sprocket booms - Lock rear idler sprocket.
Roller booms - Clamp links on Roller booms - Clamp links on
either side of connector pin with either side of connector pin with
chain jaws. Squeeze jaws to chain jaws. Squeeze jaws to
reduce pressure on connector pin. reduce pressure on connector pin.
om1752 om1752
6. Loop cable through links nearest 6. Loop cable through links nearest
connector pin. connector pin.
om1744 om1744

in death, injury, or property damage. Learn how to in death, injury, or property damage. Learn how to
use equipment correctly. use equipment correctly.
7. Turn tension bolts counterclockwise to release tension on 7. Turn tension bolts counterclockwise to release tension on
digging chain. digging chain.
8. Stand clear of chain. Do not stand behind boom. Keep feet 8. Stand clear of chain. Do not stand behind boom. Keep feet
from under boom. from under boom.
9. Remove pin from connector pin and drive pin out of link. 9. Remove pin from connector pin and drive pin out of link.
10. Unclamp links (roller boom). Slowly release cable and lower 10. Unclamp links (roller boom). Slowly release cable and lower
chain to ground. chain to ground.
To install digging chain: To install digging chain:
1. Lay digging chain on ground with teeth down and pointed 1. Lay digging chain on ground with teeth down and pointed
toward unit. Loop cable through end links. toward unit. Loop cable through end links.
2. Start unit. 2. Start unit.
3. Back unit up until digging chain extends past headshaft about 3. Back unit up until digging chain extends past headshaft about
one foot. one foot.
4. Lower boom to horizontal position. 4. Lower boom to horizontal position.
5. Stop engine. 5. Stop engine.
6. Secure chain on sprocket booms by locking rear idler 6. Secure chain on sprocket booms by locking rear idler
sprocket. sprocket.
7. Pull rear end of chain over tail sprocket or roller. Pull cable 7. Pull rear end of chain over tail sprocket or roller. Pull cable
until chain is in place on boom. until chain is in place on boom.
8. Attach chain jaws to end links and bring links into place. 8. Attach chain jaws to end links and bring links into place.
9. Install connector pin and lock key. 9. Install connector pin and lock key.
10. Tighten digging chain. 10. Tighten digging chain.

Sprocket Booms Sprocket Booms
Digging chain tension is correct Digging chain tension is correct
when 1-1.5” (25-40 mm) slide and when 1-1.5” (25-40 mm) slide and
stop (C) is exposed. Adjust boom stop (C) is exposed. Adjust boom
tension by tightening or loosening tension by tightening or loosening
adjustment screws (B) and jam adjustment screws (B) and jam
nuts (A). nuts (A).
Roller Booms Roller Booms

With boom horizontal, measure With boom horizontal, measure
distance from bottom of boom to distance from bottom of boom to
chain (C). When properly chain (C). When properly
adjusted, distance should be 1.5- adjusted, distance should be 1.5-
2.0” (38-51 mm). Adjust boom ten- 2.0” (38-51 mm). Adjust boom ten-
sion by tightening or loosening om1017.pcx sion by tightening or loosening om1017.pcx
adjustment screw (A) and jam nut adjustment screw (A) and jam nut
(B). (B).
Digging Teeth Digging Teeth

Digging teeth should be replaced with new Ditch Witch teeth. Digging teeth should be replaced with new Ditch Witch teeth.
When replacing teeth, maintain original tooth pattern. When replacing teeth, maintain original tooth pattern.
Each unit is equipped with a standard tooth configuration. Each unit is equipped with a standard tooth configuration.
Depending on soil conditions and type of chain, a different Depending on soil conditions and type of chain, a different
configuration might produce better results. Contact your configuration might produce better results. Contact your
authorized Ditch Witch dealer for more information about digging authorized Ditch Witch dealer for more information about digging
teeth patterns. teeth patterns.
Alligator chain bits, like teeth, wear out. When tungsten cap or Alligator chain bits, like teeth, wear out. When tungsten cap or
insert is gone, bit will wear quickly. Replace it before bit adapter is insert is gone, bit will wear quickly. Replace it before bit adapter is
damaged. damaged.
Bits must rotate freely in bit holders. Clean chain and check bits Bits must rotate freely in bit holders. Clean chain and check bits
for free rotation after each use. If any bit does not rotate, it will for free rotation after each use. If any bit does not rotate, it will
wear unevenly and quickly. wear unevenly and quickly.
1820 - SPECIFICATIONS 79 1820 - SPECIFICATIONS 79
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Engine Gasoline Engine
om2292 om2292
Diesel Engine Diesel Engine
om0047h.tif om0047h.tif
80 1820 - SPECIFICATIONS 80 1820 - SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS*: U.S. METRIC DIMENSIONS*: U.S. METRIC
A Trench depth 48 in 1.2 m A Trench depth 48 in 1.2 m
B Trench width 3.25-16 in 85-405 mm B Trench width 3.25-16 in 85-405 mm
C Boom travel up 60° 60° C Boom travel up 60° 60°
C' Boom travel down 60° 60° C' Boom travel down 60° 60°
F Headshaft height 11 in 280 mm F Headshaft height 11 in 280 mm
L Length-transport 81 in 2.6 m L Length-transport 81 in 2.6 m
W Width-transport 35.6 in 905 mm W Width-transport 35.6 in 905 mm
H Height-transport** 63 in 1.6 m H Height-transport** 63 in 1.6 m

Kubota 66.5in Kubota 66.5in
W Tread 27 in 685 mm W Tread 27 in 685 mm
A Angle of departure 84° 84° A Angle of departure 84° 84°
L Wheelbase 43 in 1090 mm L Wheelbase 43 in 1090 mm

E Centerline trench to outside edge machine, 16.25 in 415 mm E Centerline trench to outside edge machine, 16.25 in 415 mm
left left
E Centerline trench to outside edge machine, 19.3 in 90 mm E Centerline trench to outside edge machine, 19.3 in 90 mm
right right
A Angle of approach 32° 32° A Angle of approach 32° 32°
A'. Angle of approach w/boring attachment 17° 17° A'. Angle of approach w/boring attachment 17° 17°
Spoil discharge reach 13.2 in 335 mm Spoil discharge reach 13.2 in 335 mm
*Dimensions are based on narrow tread and 8” (203 mm) pivot and gas engine. *Dimensions are based on narrow tread and 8” (203 mm) pivot and gas engine.
**Standard boom: refer to chart for recommended depth/width combinations. **Standard boom: refer to chart for recommended depth/width combinations.
GENERAL: GENERAL:
Ditch Witch Model 1820, self-propelled, non-riding, hydraulically steered, two- Ditch Witch Model 1820, self-propelled, non-riding, hydraulically steered, two-
wheel drive, rigid frame, chain-type trencher. wheel drive, rigid frame, chain-type trencher.
OPERATION: U.S. METRIC OPERATION: U.S. METRIC
Vehicle speeds Vehicle speeds
Maximum transit forward 142 fpm 43 m/min Maximum transit forward 142 fpm 43 m/min
Maximum transit reverse 86 fpm 26 m/min Maximum transit reverse 86 fpm 26 m/min
Digging chain speed @ 207 rpm 290 fpm 88 m/min Digging chain speed @ 207 rpm 290 fpm 88 m/min
Tire steering angle Tire steering angle
Inside tire 28.5° 28.5° Inside tire 28.5° 28.5°
Outside tire 23° 23° Outside tire 23° 23°
Vehicle clearance circle (SAE) 20.7 ft 6.3 m Vehicle clearance circle (SAE) 20.7 ft 6.3 m
Spoil handling Spoil handling
Auger-type Single, open end Auger-type Single, open end
Auger-size 18.75 in OD 476 mm OD x 40 Auger-size 18.75 in OD 476 mm OD x 40

x 1.5 in ID x mm ID x 290 mm x 1.5 in ID x mm ID x 290 mm
11.5 in long long 11.5 in long long
Trench cleaner type Mechanical Trench cleaner type Mechanical
Trench cleaner size 4 - 16 in 100-405 mm Trench cleaner size 4 - 16 in 100-405 mm
Operating weight (based on roller boom and narrow digging chain) Operating weight (based on roller boom and narrow digging chain)
Gasoline engines 1300 lb 590 kg Gasoline engines 1300 lb 590 kg
Diesel engine 1760 lb 798 kg Diesel engine 1760 lb 798 kg
TRENCH SIZES: TRENCH SIZES:
DEPTH WIDTH DEPTH WIDTH
U.S METRIC U.S. METRIC U.S METRIC U.S. METRIC
24 inch 610 mm 16 ** inch 405 mm 24 inch 610 mm 16 ** inch 405 mm

24 inch 610 mm 14 ** inch 355 mm 24 inch 610 mm 14 ** inch 355 mm
30 inch 760 mm 12 * inch 305 mm 30 inch 760 mm 12 * inch 305 mm
36 inch 915 mm 10 * inch 255 mm 36 inch 915 mm 10 * inch 255 mm

48 inch 1220 mm 8 inch 205 mm 48 inch 1220 mm 8 inch 205 mm

48 inch 1220 mm 3.25 inch 85 mm 48 inch 1220 mm 3.25 inch 85 mm
* With 12” pivot option * With 12” pivot option

** With 16” pivot option ** With 16” pivot option
POWER OPTIONS: U.S. METRIC POWER OPTIONS: U.S. METRIC
Engine (Honda GX610) Engine (Honda GX610)
Fuel — Gasoline Fuel — Gasoline
Cooling medium — Air Cooling medium — Air
Number of cylinders — 2 Number of cylinders — 2
Displacement 37.5 in3 614 cm3 Displacement 37.5 in3 614 cm3
Bore 3.03 in 77 mm Bore 3.03 in 77 mm
Stroke 2.60 in 66 mm Stroke 2.60 in 66 mm

Manufacturers net power rating (per 18 hp 13.4 kW Manufacturers net power rating (per 18 hp 13.4 kW
SAE J1349) SAE J1349)
Rated speed 3600 rpm* 3600 rpm* Rated speed 3600 rpm* 3600 rpm*
Maximum torque @ 2500 rpm 31.8 ft•lb 43.1 N•m Maximum torque @ 2500 rpm 31.8 ft•lb 43.1 N•m
Max. tilt angle** All directions 20° 20° Max. tilt angle** All directions 20° 20°
Engine (Kubota D722-E) Engine (Kubota D722-E)

Fuel — Diesel Fuel — Diesel
Cooling medium — Water Cooling medium — Water
Number of cylinders — 3 Number of cylinders — 3

Displacement 43.88 in3 719 cm3 Displacement 43.88 in3 719 cm3
Bore 2.64 in 67 mm Bore 2.64 in 67 mm
Stroke 2.68 in 68 mm Stroke 2.68 in 68 mm

Engine manufacturers gross power 18.8 hp 14.0 kW Engine manufacturers gross power 18.8 hp 14.0 kW
rating @ 3600 rpm rating @ 3600 rpm
Maximum governed speed as 3200 rpm* 3200 rpm* Maximum governed speed as 3200 rpm* 3200 rpm*
installed (no load)* installed (no load)*
Flywheel power @ 3000 rpm (full 17.6 hp 13.1 kW Flywheel power @ 3000 rpm (full 17.6 hp 13.1 kW
load) load)
Fuel consumption @ 3000 rpm 1.0 gph 3.8 L/h Fuel consumption @ 3000 rpm 1.0 gph 3.8 L/h
Max. tilt angle** All directions 20° 20° Max. tilt angle** All directions 20° 20°
*Product support may be void if engine is run above "Maximum governed speed *Product support may be void if engine is run above "Maximum governed speed
as installed (no load)." as installed (no load)."
**Exceeding this operating angle will cause engine damage. This DOES NOT **Exceeding this operating angle will cause engine damage. This DOES NOT
IMPLY machine is stable to maximum angle of engine operation. IMPLY machine is stable to maximum angle of engine operation.
POWER TRAIN: POWER TRAIN:
Ground Drive (Drive and Dig) Infinitely variable from zero to Ground Drive (Drive and Dig) Infinitely variable from zero to
Transmission maximum, enclosed gear box to axle, speed and Transmission maximum, enclosed gear box to axle, speed and
direction controlled with single lever direction controlled with single lever
Clutch Mechanical, hand operated, spring loaded with Clutch Mechanical, hand operated, spring loaded with
tension roller for belt drive tension roller for belt drive
Belt 2 strand 3V "Power Band" Belt 2 strand 3V "Power Band"
Tires - drive 23 x 8.50 - 12 Tires - drive 23 x 8.50 - 12
23 x 10.50 - 12 (option) 23 x 10.50 - 12 (option)
Tire - trail 16 x 6.50 - 8 Tire - trail 16 x 6.50 - 8
Trencher Drive Mechanical - Belt drive to enclosed reduction drive, Trencher Drive Mechanical - Belt drive to enclosed reduction drive,
headshaft headshaft
Belt 3 strand "Power Band" Belt 3 strand "Power Band"
Digging chain 33,000 lb (15000 kg) test Digging chain 33,000 lb (15000 kg) test
Chain drive sprocket Forged and tempered Chain drive sprocket Forged and tempered
Digging tools Bolt-on cup teeth with hard surfaced edge of tungsten Digging tools Bolt-on cup teeth with hard surfaced edge of tungsten
carbide carbide
Spoil Handling Drive Mechanical, attached to and rotates with headshaft Spoil Handling Drive Mechanical, attached to and rotates with headshaft
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM: U.S. METRIC HYDRAULIC SYSTEM: U.S. METRIC
Drive pump capacity @ 3200 rpm 12.6 gpm 48 L/min Drive pump capacity @ 3200 rpm 12.6 gpm 48 L/min
Filtration Return flow, 10 micron nominal Filtration Return flow, 10 micron nominal
Hydraulic motor, drive Hydraulic motor, drive
Torque @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 12.6 gpm 1347 in•lb. 152 N•m Torque @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 12.6 gpm 1347 in•lb. 152 N•m
(48 L/min) (48 L/min)
Speed @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 12.6 gpm 542 rpm 542 rpm Speed @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 12.6 gpm 542 rpm 542 rpm
(48 L/min) (48 L/min)
Displacement/rev 4.9 in3 80 cm3 Displacement/rev 4.9 in3 80 cm3

Pump capacity, drilling @ 3200 rpm 5 gpm 19 L/min Pump capacity, drilling @ 3200 rpm 5 gpm 19 L/min
Hydraulic motor, drilling Hydraulic motor, drilling

Torque @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 5 gpm 3088 in•lb 349 N•m Torque @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 5 gpm 3088 in•lb 349 N•m
(19 L/min) (19 L/min)
Speed @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 5 gpm (19 78 rpm 78 rpm Speed @ 2000 psi (138 bar) and 5 gpm (19 78 rpm 78 rpm
L/min) L/min)
Displacement/rev 11.9 in3 195 cm3 Displacement/rev 11.9 in3 195 cm3
Bidirectional Bidirectional
Hydraulic cylinders: Hydraulic cylinders:

Function Boom lift, steering Function Boom lift, steering
Type Double acting Type Double acting
STEERING: STEERING:
Type — Power on drive axle, lever controlled Type — Power on drive axle, lever controlled
FLUID CAPACITIES: U.S. METRIC FLUID CAPACITIES: U.S. METRIC
Fuel tank Fuel tank
Gasoline 5.4 gal 20.4 L Gasoline 5.4 gal 20.4 L
Diesel 6.5 gal 24.6 L Diesel 6.5 gal 24.6 L
Engine oil: Engine oil:
Honda 1.5 pt 1.4 L Honda 1.5 pt 1.4 L
Kubota 0.84 gal 3.2 L Kubota 0.84 gal 3.2 L
Hydraulic reservoir 5.5 gal 20.8 L Hydraulic reservoir 5.5 gal 20.8 L
Hydraulic system 6.25 gal 23.7 L Hydraulic system 6.25 gal 23.7 L
Headshaft reducer oil 2.5 pt 1.2 L Headshaft reducer oil 2.5 pt 1.2 L
Axle reducer oil 2.5 pt 1.2 L Axle reducer oil 2.5 pt 1.2 L
BATTERY: BATTERY:
Group 26R, 12-volt, top-post; SAE Reserve Capacity 60-80 min.; SAE cold crank Group 26R, 12-volt, top-post; SAE Reserve Capacity 60-80 min.; SAE cold crank
450 amps. 450 amps.
VIBRATION LEVEL VIBRATION LEVEL

Vibration at the operator's hand during normal operation is 3.25 m/s2. Vibration at the operator's hand during normal operation is 3.25 m/s2.
NOISE LEVEL NOISE LEVEL
Operator 89 dBA sound pressure per ISO 6394 Operator 89 dBA sound pressure per ISO 6394
Exterior 100 dBA sound power per ISO 6393 Exterior 100 dBA sound power per ISO 6393
Specifications are called out according to SAE recommended procedures. Specifications are called out according to SAE recommended procedures.
Specifications are general and subject to change without notice. If exact Specifications are general and subject to change without notice. If exact
measurements are required, equipment should be weighed and measured. Due measurements are required, equipment should be weighed and measured. Due
to selected options, delivered equipment may not necessarily match that to selected options, delivered equipment may not necessarily match that
described. described.
1820 - WARRANTY 87 1820 - WARRANTY 87
WARRANTY WARRANTY
Ditch Witch Equipment and Parts Ditch Witch Equipment and Parts
Limited Warranty Policy Limited Warranty Policy
Subject to the limitations and exclusions herein, free replacement parts will be Subject to the limitations and exclusions herein, free replacement parts will be
provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for any Ditch Witch equipment provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for any Ditch Witch equipment
or parts manufactured by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) that fail due to or parts manufactured by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) that fail due to
a defect in material or workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use a defect in material or workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use
(Exception: 2 years for all SK500 attachments). Free labor will be provided at any (Exception: 2 years for all SK500 attachments). Free labor will be provided at any
authorized Ditch Witch dealership for installation of parts under this warranty authorized Ditch Witch dealership for installation of parts under this warranty
during the first year following initial commercial use of the serial-numbered Ditch during the first year following initial commercial use of the serial-numbered Ditch
Witch equipment on which it is installed. Witch equipment on which it is installed.
Exclusions from Product Warranty Exclusions from Product Warranty

• Wear-related failure of parts subject to ground contact including, but not limited • Wear-related failure of parts subject to ground contact including, but not limited
to, digging teeth, digging chains, sprockets, backhoe buckets, plow blades, drill to, digging teeth, digging chains, sprockets, backhoe buckets, plow blades, drill
pipe, drill bits, backreamers, and swivels. pipe, drill bits, backreamers, and swivels.
• All incidental or consequential damages. • All incidental or consequential damages.
• All defects, damages, or injuries caused by misuse, abuse, improper • All defects, damages, or injuries caused by misuse, abuse, improper
installation, alteration, neglect, or uses other than those for which products installation, alteration, neglect, or uses other than those for which products
were intended. were intended.
• All defects, damages, or injuries caused by improper training, operation, or • All defects, damages, or injuries caused by improper training, operation, or
servicing of products in a manner inconsistent with manufacturer’s servicing of products in a manner inconsistent with manufacturer’s
recommendations. recommendations.
• All engines and engine accessories (these are covered by original • All engines and engine accessories (these are covered by original
manufacturer’s warranty). manufacturer’s warranty).
• Tires, belts, and other parts which may be subject to another manufacturer’s • Tires, belts, and other parts which may be subject to another manufacturer’s
warranty (such warranty will be available to purchaser). warranty (such warranty will be available to purchaser).
• All implied warranties not expressly stated herein, including any warranty of • All implied warranties not expressly stated herein, including any warranty of
fitness for a particular purpose and merchantability. fitness for a particular purpose and merchantability.
IF THE PRODUCTS ARE PURCHASED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES AS IF THE PRODUCTS ARE PURCHASED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES AS
DEFINED BY THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE, THEN THERE ARE NO DEFINED BY THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE, THEN THERE ARE NO
WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE FACE HEREOF AND THERE WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE FACE HEREOF AND THERE
ARE NO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHICH EXTEND TO A ARE NO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHICH EXTEND TO A
COMMERCIAL BUYER. ALL OTHER PROVISIONS OF THIS LIMITED COMMERCIAL BUYER. ALL OTHER PROVISIONS OF THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY APPLY INCLUDING THE DUTIES IMPOSED. WARRANTY APPLY INCLUDING THE DUTIES IMPOSED.
88 1820 - WARRANTY 88 1820 - WARRANTY
Ditch Witch products have been tested to deliver acceptable performance in most Ditch Witch products have been tested to deliver acceptable performance in most
conditions. This does not imply they will deliver acceptable performance in all conditions. This does not imply they will deliver acceptable performance in all
conditions. Therefore, to assure suitability, products should be operated under conditions. Therefore, to assure suitability, products should be operated under
anticipated working conditions prior to purchase. anticipated working conditions prior to purchase.
Defects will be determined by an inspection within thirty (30) days of the date of Defects will be determined by an inspection within thirty (30) days of the date of
failure of the product or part by CMW or its authorized dealer. CMW will provide failure of the product or part by CMW or its authorized dealer. CMW will provide
the location of its inspection facilities or its nearest authorized dealer upon inquiry. the location of its inspection facilities or its nearest authorized dealer upon inquiry.
CMW reserves the right to supply remanufactured replacements parts under this CMW reserves the right to supply remanufactured replacements parts under this
warranty as it deems appropriate. warranty as it deems appropriate.
Extended warranties are available upon request from your local Ditch Witch Extended warranties are available upon request from your local Ditch Witch
dealer or CMW. dealer or CMW.
Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so above limitation of exclusion may not apply. Further, some states do damages, so above limitation of exclusion may not apply. Further, some states do
not allow exclusion of or limitation of how long an implied warranty lasts, so the not allow exclusion of or limitation of how long an implied warranty lasts, so the
above limitation may not apply. This limited warranty gives product owner specific above limitation may not apply. This limited warranty gives product owner specific
legal rights and the product owner may also have other rights which vary from legal rights and the product owner may also have other rights which vary from
state to state. state to state.
For information regarding this limited warranty, contact CMW’s Product Support For information regarding this limited warranty, contact CMW’s Product Support
department, P.O. Box 66, Perry, OK 73077-0066, or contact your local Ditch Witch department, P.O. Box 66, Perry, OK 73077-0066, or contact your local Ditch Witch
dealer. dealer.
First version: 1/91; Latest version: 1/03 First version: 1/91; Latest version: 1/03
1820 - 91 1820 - 91

1820 Operator's Manual

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1820 - SERVICE 1 1820 - SERVICE 1

SERIAL NUMBER RECORD SERIAL NUMBER RECORD

SERIAL NUMBER RECORD SERIAL NUMBER RECORD

Date of purchase Date of purchase

Serial number Serial number

Engine serial number Engine serial number

SUPPORT PROCEDURE SUPPORT PROCEDURE

Ditch Witch Training Ditch Witch Training

Operator's Manual Operator's Manual

, Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd, , Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd,

TRENCHING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 TRENCHING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

DRILLING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 DRILLING ATTACHMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

A. Control Panel A. Control Panel

B. Restraint Bar B. Restraint Bar

C. Digging Chain/Boom C. Digging Chain/Boom

D. Trail Wheel D. Trail Wheel

E. Drive Wheel E. Drive Wheel

Gasoline Engine Diesel Engine Gasoline Engine Diesel Engine

om1783 om1783a om1783 om1783a

Axle Lock (blue) Axle Lock (blue)

Boom Control (green) Boom Control (green)

• Push to lower. • Push to lower.

Oil Pressure Indicator Oil Pressure Indicator

• Turn engine off. • Turn engine off.

Operator Presence Switch Operator Presence Switch

Speed/Direction Control Speed/Direction Control

• Push to move toward digging • Push to move toward digging

Hydraulic Pump Control Hydraulic Pump Control

• Push to engage • Push to engage

Roto Witch Control Roto Witch Control

• Push to rotate clockwise. • Push to rotate clockwise.

Digging Chain Control (yellow) Digging Chain Control (yellow)

• Push to start digging chain. • Push to start digging chain.

Ignition Switch Ignition Switch

Gasoline Engines: Gasoline Engines:

Diesel Engines: Diesel Engines:

Choke (gas only) Choke (gas only)

• Pull Choke before starting. • Pull Choke before starting.

• Push toward rabbit to increase • Push toward rabbit to increase

Water Temperature Gauge Water Temperature Gauge

Glow Plug Indicator Glow Plug Indicator

Battery Disconnect Battery Disconnect

Battery disconnect is optional on Battery disconnect is optional on

Gasoline engine: Gasoline engine:

• Turn clockwise to connect battery • Turn clockwise to connect battery

• Turn counterclockwise to connect om1486.pcx • Turn counterclockwise to connect om1486.pcx

UNDERGROUND HAZARDS UNDERGROUND HAZARDS

Hazards include: Hazards include:

• Electric cables • Electric cables

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

If an Electric Line is Damaged If an Electric Line is Damaged

• LEAVE AREA. • LEAVE AREA.

If a Gas Line is Damaged If a Gas Line is Damaged

If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged

If Machine Catches on Fire If Machine Catches on Fire

SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS SAFETY ALERT CLASSIFICATIONS

indicates an imminently hazardous situation indicates an imminently hazardous situation

SAFETY ALERTS SAFETY ALERTS

Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or Deadly gases. Lack of oxygen or

Electrical shock. Contacting Electrical shock. Contacting

Jobsite hazards Jobsite hazards

Crushing weight could cause Crushing weight could cause

Runaway possible. Machine could Runaway possible. Machine could