Page 35 - DRAGO GT Operators Manual

Section 5 – Operation

5.4 – Starting in the Field

Operate the combine at a low ground speed until familiar with the corn head. After making several rounds,
stop the corn head and shut off the combine engine. Check all bearings for excessive heating. All bolts must be
tight and gathering chains properly tensioned. Make any necessary adjustments. See Section 6.

Danger: Shut off the combine engine, set the parking brake, remove the key and engage
feeder house safety stops before checking the corn head. Failure to do so could result in
serious injury or death.

Drive and Operate Carefully

Drive carefully so the corn head will stay on the rows. Never exceed the corn head or combine capacity.
Overloading may cause breakdowns. Start out in a low gear and increase speed until you find the proper
ground speed at which to operate.

Listen for slipping clutches or other unusual noises. Correct ground speed is primarily determined by crop
condition, yield and the operator’s knowledge and experience.

Important: Matching the corn head speed to ground speed is very important for proper feeding
and minimizing of grain loss. Ideally, in standing corn, the gathering chains should run slightly faster
than the stalks entering the row unit. For best results, the tow shaft on the corn head should be
operated at 630 to 700 rpm. Please note that this rpm range is not the feeder house speed. For
correct drive ratios and recommended feeder house speeds contact your Authorized Drago Dealer.

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