Attachments
Attachments tests matching, fitting and using blades, rippers and towed equipment safely.
Fit and check
- Use only approved attachments; check pins, retaining devices, quick hitch, hoses and guards.
- Support the attachment, isolate hydraulics and release pressure before coupling or changing parts.
- Confirm load, slope and ballast limits after fitting.
Use
- Ripper for compacted ground; blade for cut and carry; winch for controlled towing.
- Do not use attachments as cranes, man-lifts or improvised anchors unless the manufacturer permits it.
Worked example: A ripper shank is being changed. Reasoning: lower the ripper to ground, isolate, chock it, release hydraulic pressure and use the correct pins and torque. Verify the retaining device before use; a released shank can fall or eject.
Traps: mismatched pins, trapped hydraulic pressure, and using a dozer blade to lift people or suspended loads.
Key points
- Use approved attachments matched to the machine.
- Check pins, quick hitch, hoses and guards.
- Isolate and release pressure before fitting.
- Confirm load and slope limits after fitting.
- Never use attachments as cranes or man-lifts.