This article provides some basic information on pre-season and daily checks needed to keep deep rippers in optimal working conditions. The information assumes the plough is using the #9 Shank Assembly, however, the basic information is applicable to all ploughs in the Agrowplow range. More detailed information is available in the plough operators manual.
Refer to your parts manual for part numbers if you are using a plough with a different assembly.
Visually check the swing arms and shank carriers for cracks.
As part of a daily pre-start check or after hitting a rock reef
Order replacement parts:
Visually inspect the blades and shinguards for signs of wear. Check that all the tungsten teeth are still present, that the tungsten grit has not worn down or off the top, sides, and undersides, and that the blade and shinguard body has not been worn down.
As part of a daily pre-start check or pending conditions.
Re-apply tungsten grit if the blade or shinguard body is not yet worn. Otherwise, order replacement parts:
Fully lift and lower the wheel arms, then hold on relief for 2 to 3 seconds. Repeat this process 3 times to phase all the wheel lift cylinders.
Lift the plough to the maximum height at the end of each row.
As part of a daily pre-start check and a full lift at the end of each row.
Use a socket wrench to check the bolts are properly secured.
Once per week or when any bolt is replaced.
Tighten the bolts with a 30mm socket wrench. See Agrowplow Torque Guide for more information.
How to checkLower the hydraulic pre-charge to 0PSI and lean with your body weight on the shanks. The shanks should be tight and not break back when you apply your weight.
As part of a daily pre-start check and periodically though the day as the pressure will change significantly with ambient temperature.
See: how to purge air from the hydraulics
Visually inspect the cylinder gland caps to make sure the tack weld on the cap is present and secures the cap.
As part of the daily pre-start check.
Visually inspect the pressure gauge to ensure the pressure is within acceptable limits.
Note: the following values are for the #9 Hydraulics Shank working in a reasonably clean country. See Hydraulic Shank Operational Limits in the operator's manual for more information.
| Accumulator pre-charge | Minimum pressure | Maximum pressure |
| 115 bar (1660psi) | 125 bar (1800psi) | 150 bar (2200psi) |
| 140 bar (2030psi) | 145 bar (2100 psi) | 165 bar (2400psi) |
Periodically throughout the day.
Pre-charge the hydraulic system to above the pre-charge pressure in the accumulator. Then slowly release pressure from the system and watch the gauge for when it changes speed.
See Accumulator Pre-Charge Pressure and Testing in the operators manual for more information.
As part of the pre-season check.
Use a nitrogen charge kit to recharge the bottles. The recommended charge is 120-140 bar.
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