MEYER 3245 (01) PDF Document

Before operating the MEYER 3245 spreader, it is crucial to understand and follow these safety precautions:

• Require anyone who will operate this spreader to read and completely understand the Owner’s Manual.

• Do not allow minors (children) or inexperienced persons to operate this spreader.

• If the spreader becomes clogged, shut off the tractor engine and allow all mechanisms to stop. Disconnect the PTO shaft and hydraulic hoses (relieve hydraulic pressure) before cleaning or working on the spreader.

• Always shut off power, disconnect the PTO drive shaft, and unhook hydraulic hoses before working on the machine to prevent accidental startup.

• Do not clean, adjust, or lubricate while the spreader is in motion.

• Ensure all hydraulic fittings are tight and hoses are in good condition. Never investigate for hydraulic leaks by using a part of the body to feel for escaping fluid.

• Inspect the spreader regularly to ensure all connections and bolts are tight and secure.

• Do not operate until all shields, covers, and guards are in place.

• Make certain everyone is clear of the spreader before applying power.

• Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from moving parts. Do not wear loose or floppy clothing.

• Stay well clear of the spreader’s rear discharge spinners while operating.

• Do not step on any part of the spreader at any time. Do not use the PTO guard as a step.

• Stay clear of the power take-off (PTO) shaft at all times.

• Keep PTO shaft shields turning freely and replace any that are missing or damaged.

• Never operate the PTO above the normal 540 RPM rating, unless the spreader is equipped with a 1000 RPM optional kit.

• Do not tow at speeds in excess of 20 MPH.

• Observe all applicable traffic laws when transporting on public roadways. Check local laws for highway lighting and marking requirements.

• Always install a Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem on the spreader for transport and keep it clean and bright.

• When towing on public roads, use a safety chain of sufficient strength to support the gross weight of the spreader.

Follow these steps for pre-operation setup of the MEYER 3245:

1. **Drawbar Adjustment:** The spreader should be operated with a 540 RPM PTO unless equipped for 1000 RPM. Adjust the tractor drawbar to be 13 to 17 inches above the ground. The horizontal distance from the end of the tractor PTO shaft to the center of the hitch pin hole should be 14 inches. Secure the drawbar so the hitch pin hole is directly below the PTO drive line.

2. **Hitching:** Fasten the spreader hitch to the tractor drawbar with a 1″ diameter hitch pin that cannot bounce out.

3. **Jack Storage:** Remove the weight from the jack. Remove the jack from its square mount tube and move it to the transport storage tube on the left front side of the frame channel, storing it in a horizontal position. The jack is not to be used when the spreader is loaded.

4. **PTO Connection:** Connect the PTO drive shaft to the tractor. Slide the spring-loaded locking collar on the PTO yoke rearward and slide the yoke onto the tractor PTO shaft. Release the collar and ensure the pins fall into the groove of the tractor PTO shaft and the collar snaps forward into the locking position.

5. **Hydraulic Hoses:** Route hydraulic hoses through the hose support rod on the hitch frame. Connect the hydraulic hoses for the flow control rear gate to the tractor’s double-acting valve hydraulic system. Check for proper gate operation and reverse hose connections at the tractor if it operates in the opposite direction.

6. **Initial Run:** Before loading, slowly engage the tractor PTO and operate the machine at idle speed for several minutes to ensure it is lubricated and operating properly.

The minimum tractor weight required for towing the MEYER 3245 at speeds up to 20 MPH is 2/3 of the spreader’s gross weight. The spreader empty weight is 7,640 lbs. Calculate the total gross weight (GW) by adding the load weight to the spreader’s empty weight.

Example: 7,640 lbs (empty weight) + Load Weight = Gross Weight (GW). Minimum Tractor Weight = 2/3 of GW.

For reference, here is a table of estimated material weights:

The maximum load weights for the MEYER 3245 model are as follows:

**Struck capacity; heaped loads have significantly higher capacities.

A safety chain must be installed to retain the connection between the tractor and the MEYER 3245 spreader when traveling on public roads. This is to prevent separation in case the hitch connection fails.

The chain must be strong enough to hold the weight of the loaded spreader. The length should be no longer than necessary to turn without interference. If using a grab hook at the end(s) to secure the chain to itself, a hook latch must be installed. Do not use the intermediate support as the attaching point.

If any chain links or attachment hardware are broken or stretched, repair them before use. Store the chain so it does not corrode or become damaged.

For freezing weather operation, follow these steps:

1. Allow the spreader to completely empty the last of the manure and then disengage the tractor PTO.

2. Shut off the tractor, remove the ignition key, and allow all movement to stop before cleaning.

3. Manually open the trip pan doors at the rear of the spreader and scrape clean any remaining manure from inside. Clean all manure from the rear trip pan doors, ends of augers, flow control rear gate, and spinners.

4. Manually close the trip pan doors.

5. Slowly engage the PTO and operate the spreader for several minutes to clean manure scrapings and allow any remaining manure and the spreader to freeze dry.

6. Hydraulically run the flow control rear gate up and down to clean the gate slide guides.

7. Park the spreader with the flow control rear gate approximately halfway open.

Before loading in freezing weather, manually open and close the trip pan doors to ensure augers and spinners are free to rotate and that the flow control rear gate moves freely.

Follow these steps to safely load the MEYER 3245:

1. Before loading, especially in freezing weather, ensure the augers and spinners are free to rotate and the flow control rear gate moves freely up and down.

2. Manually latch the trip pan doors at the rear of the spreader closed.

3. Check that the flow control rear gate is completely closed before loading.

4. When parked for loading, shift the tractor to neutral or park and set the brakes.

5. The moisture content of the manure will determine how full the spreader can be loaded without spilling. Solid manure can typically be loaded at least level with the top of the box. Semi-liquid and liquid manure will need to be less than full to prevent splashing or leaking onto public roads, which is unlawful.

CAUTION: To prevent damage, foreign objects such as stones, concrete, timber, metal, or large frozen chunks of manure should never be loaded into the spreader.

To unload the MEYER 3245, follow these instructions:

1. When you are ready to begin spreading, open the hydraulic flow control rear gate and slowly engage the tractor PTO clutch. This can be done while traveling forward to avoid a heavier application at the edge of the field.

2. For liquid and semi-liquid manure, control the application rate by adjusting how much the flow control rear gate is opened. The gate indicator bar provides a reference for the opening amount.

3. For solid manure (dry, pen-packed, or manure with long straw), the flow control rear gate MUST be completely open as this material is not free-flowing.

4. The rear spinners are designed for a uniform spread pattern of about 15 ft. wide for most materials. Plan your spreading patterns accordingly, using caution on slopes or wet ground where traction may be poor.

5. For optimum performance, operate at or near the engine’s PTO speed. You can further control the application rate by adjusting the relationship between tractor engine speed and ground speed (transmission gear selection).

6. When the spreader is empty, idle the tractor, stop the PTO, and close the flow control rear gate.

If the shear bolts on the main auger drive sprockets break, follow this recommended procedure. The design includes an extra set of holes to install new shear bolts without turning over the machine.

1. **Safety First:** Shut the tractor off, remove the key, and disconnect the drive line before performing any service.

2. **Single Auger Shear:** If only one auger shears, unload the opposite side of the spreader first. Then, remove the obstruction from the sheared side of the machine. After removing the obstruction, install new shear bolts in the sheared auger and unload the remaining material.

3. **Both Augers Shear:** If both sides shear, install only one set of auger shear bolts and unload one side at a time. After the first side is unloaded, install bolts in the opposite side and unload the remainder.

4. **Second Shear:** If a second shear occurs without an obstruction, install the next larger size shear bolt (9/16″). Note that increasing the shear bolt size decreases the machine’s protection against damage.

5. **Correct Installation:** When installing new bolts, ensure they drive off the head of the bolt, not the nut. Be sure to install the proper size bolt into the correct size hole (1/2″ or 9/16″). Incorrect assembly can lead to shear or sprocket failure.

Before storing your MEYER 3245 for an extended period, perform the following maintenance:

1. Allow the spreader to completely clean out the last load.

2. Thoroughly hose off all manure from the outside of the spreader and the inside of the box. Pay special attention to cleaning the flow control rear gate mechanism.

3. After cleaning, completely lubricate the entire spreader to exclude moisture from bearings and prevent condensation from forming during storage.

4. Apply oil to the roller chain drives.

5. Inspect all adjustments and check for parts that need repair or replacement. Performing these tasks now will ensure the spreader is ready for use at the beginning of the next season.

Follow these steps for PTO drive line attachment and lubrication:

Drive Line Attachment:

The cutout clutch end of the PTO drive line must always be attached to the spreader. Remove the M17 hexagon bolt from the splined hub and slide the PTO onto the implement’s splined input shaft. Install the hexagon bolt through the hub, ensuring the bolt falls into the groove on the splined shaft. Torque the bolt to 75 ft. lbs. using a metric size M17 6-point socket. A 6-point socket is required to prevent rounding the bolt head. Attach the shield safety chain to the implement’s PTO steel shield.

Lubrication (using a high-quality Lithium Base Grease):

Prior to Use:

1. With the drive line as straight as possible, use the CV Zerk (Key #2) to place 20 pumps of grease into the CV center housing.

2. Slowly articulate the double joint through its maximum angle several times.

3. Return the CV joint to a straight position and add more grease until it is evident around the housing and center sliding disk.

Normal Operation (every 8 hours, or 4 hours in demanding conditions):

1. **Cross and bearings (Key #1):** Add grease until it is purged around the seals.

2. **CV center housing (Key #2):** Add grease until it is evident around the center sliding disk.

3. **Telescoping members (Key #3):** Add grease until it adequately covers the sliding members.

4. **Shield bearings (Key #4):** Add 2-3 pumps.

Regularly inspect and adjust the two spinner material guides to maintain a 1/8″ to 3/8″ clearance between the material guides and the spinner teeth. This ensures the maximum spreading pattern and prevents manure build-up or lodging of foreign objects.

To adjust the clearance, tighten or loosen the 1″ nut on the material guide spring linkage shaft assembly. Tighten the nut to increase clearance and loosen it to decrease clearance. After achieving the recommended clearance, turn the spinners over by hand in their normal direction of rotation to check the clearance. Do not turn them in the opposite direction, as this could damage the front chain tightener.

For models with 08 serial numbers and later, if a foreign object enters the spinner area, a rear pivot bolt on the shear arm is designed to shear. Replacement 3/8-16×3″ grade 5 machine bolts are stored under the rear shield. To replace, install the bolt with a 3/8″ flat washer on the top and bottom of the block and tighten the nylon locknut firmly.

There are five roller chain drives at the front of the MEYER 3245. Proper roller chain tension is when 1/4″ to 1/2″ of deflection occurs on the slack side of the chain. Keep all roller chains tight at all times.

• Primary Chain Drive (PTO input to large RH top sprocket): This chain is automatically tensioned by a spring-loaded idler nylon roller. The extension spring should extend 2″ from its neutral 5″ total length. Manual adjustment is located at the left rear of the spreader’s front bearing mounting plate.

• Transfer Chain Drive (Large RH top sprocket to large LH top sprocket): This chain is also automatically tensioned by a spring-loaded idler nylon roller. The extension spring should extend 2″ from its neutral 5″ total length. Manual adjustment is at the front center of the front bearing mounting plate.

• RH Auger Chain Drive: This chain is automatically tensioned by a spring-loaded idler NYLON roller. The extension spring should extend 3/4″ from its neutral 4″ total length. Manual adjustment is located at the right front lower corner of the spreader tank.

• LH Auger Chain Drive: This chain is automatically tensioned by a spring-loaded heavy compression spring and tracking yoke/idler assembly. The compression spring should be compressed to 3-1/2″ to 4″ in length. Manual adjustment is located at the left front corner of the spreader tank.

• Side Shaft Chain Drive (PTO input to side line shaft): This chain is tensioned by a spring-loaded idler NYLON roller. The extension spring should extend 2″ from its neutral 5″ total length. Manual adjustment is at the right front of the front bearing mounting plate.

DAILY LUBRICATION (every 8-12 loads)

• (L1) Grease (2) rear spinner lower bearings (grease line fitted to LR frame channel).

• (L2) Oil (5) roller chain drives at the front with light weight machine oil.

• (L3) Grease PTO Drive line (9 places) with Lithium grease every 8 hours.

• (L4) Grease (4) bearings supporting the two large jack shaft reduction sprocket weldments.

• (L5) Grease (2) auger shaft bushings (grease line fitted to RF shield). Grease daily, minimum of 10 pumps.

WEEKLY LUBRICATION (every 25-30 loads)

• (L6) Grease (2) PTO input shaft bearings (grease line fitted to RF shield).

• (L7) Grease bearings on the RH side line shaft.

• (L8) Grease (4) tandem wing pivots. Jacking up the spreader helps relieve pressure for effective greasing.

• (L9) Grease (2) flow control rear gate and lifting arm pivot points. Apply grease to the slot in the gate lift arm.

• (L10) Grease (2) flow control rear gate slide guides. In freezing weather, use motor oil on slide guides as needed.

• (L11) Grease (1) integral overrunning clutch at the rear of the PTO drive line (zerk on the yoke).

MONTHLY LUBRICATION

• (L12) Keep the (3) gearboxes 1/2 full of “Semi-Fluid, EP Lithium Base, Gear Grease” (approx. 30 oz. capacity). Check regularly for leakage.

• (L13) Clean and repack the wheel hubs with axle grease annually. Grease hub through zerk in hub monthly. Be careful not to over-grease.

The automatic chain oiler lubricates the roller chains each time the rear gate’s hydraulic cylinder is activated.

• **Oil:** Use new 30 weight oil. In cold weather, use SAE 10 or a mixture of two parts 30 weight oil to one part diesel fuel. The system does not use oil from the tractor’s hydraulic system.

• **Filling:** If the reservoir tank runs dry, pour about 1/2 cup of clean 30 weight oil into the tank. Allow 30-60 minutes for the oil to run down into the pump and for air to escape, then finish filling the tank.

• **Priming:** To prime the pump, run the tractor’s hydraulics and cycle the spreader’s rear gate open and closed several times until oil is seen in all lines leading to the brushes. If you have trouble priming, you may need to bleed air from the hydraulic hose where it connects to the pump by cracking the fitting until oil comes out, then re-tightening.

• **Brush Replacement:** When replacing brushes, use regular 1/2″-20 nuts. Initially, tighten the nuts finger-tight. Adjust the brush holders so the brushes are pushed down into the roller chain approximately 1/2″. Carefully tighten the nuts, but do not over-tighten, as this can damage the plastic threads of the brush.

• **Oil Line Removal:** To remove the 5/32″ oil line tubing from a brush, push in on the red plastic ring and pull the tubing out while holding the ring down.

• **Oil Amount Adjustment:** The pump is factory-set for maximum oil delivery. To reduce the amount, loosen the jam nut on the bottom of the pump and screw in the adjusting shaft 1/4″ (approx. 5 turns). It is not recommended to screw the shaft in more than 15 turns.

The following table lists the wheel torque specifications for the MEYER 3245.

The following table lists the recommended tire inflation pressures (PSI) for tires used on the MEYER 3245.

If the augers shake or chatter, check for the following problems and apply the corresponding solution:

• **Problem:** Stiff or dry roller chains.

**Solution:** Lubricate the roller chains.

• **Problem:** Loose roller chains.

**Solution:** Tighten the roller chains.

• **Problem:** Worn sprockets or chains.

**Solution:** Replace the worn sprockets and/or chains.

• **Problem:** Dry auger trough.

**Solution:** Load the auger trough with manure to provide lubrication.

If the augers are wobbling or lifting, the potential issues are:

• **Problem:** Worn auger shaft bushings.

**Solution:** Replace the auger shaft bushings.

• **Problem:** Worn auger hold down nylon bearings.

**Solution:** Replace the auger hold down nylon bearings.

If the flow control gate fails to lift, investigate these causes:

• **Problem:** No hydraulic supply.

**Solution:** Ensure hydraulic power is being supplied from the tractor.

• **Problem:** The gate is frozen tight.

**Solution:** Thaw the frozen build-up around the gate.

If the flow control gate is not closing/sealing or is sticking, check for these issues:

• **Problem:** Lodged foreign object or dirt.

**Solution:** Remove the foreign object or clean the area.

• **Problem:** Dirty or dry slide guides.

**Solution:** Clean and lubricate the slide guides.

• **Problem:** Worn slide guides or worn out poly-slick on the slide guide.

**Solution:** Replace the worn slide guides or the slide guide poly-slick.

For gearbox issues on your MEYER 3245, consider the following:

• **Symptom: Clunking sounds.**

**Problem:** Gears/bearings are wearing due to a low level of liquid grease.

**Solution:** Replace worn gears/bearings and fill with semi-fluid, EP lithium base, gear grease.

• **Symptom: Excessive oil use.**

**Problem:** Worn out oil seals, or dry manure and twine are wrapping around the seal area.

**Solution:** Replace the oil seals. Clean and remove any build-up at the seal areas.

• **Symptom: Gear damage.**

**Problem:** High speed/full load start-up or worn-out gears.

**Solution:** Use a slow start-up procedure. Fill with oil. Replace damaged gears.

If you are experiencing issues with the material guides and spreading performance, check the following:

• **Symptom: Poor spreading pattern.**

**Problem:** Material guides are out of adjustment.

**Solution:** Adjust the guides according to the manual specifications.

• **Symptom: Dirty/build-up.**

**Problem:** Spinner RPM is too slow.

**Solution:** Operate the spreader at the recommended 540 RPM.

• **Symptom: Bending/breakage.**

**Problem:** Lodging foreign objects or multiple damaged paddles.

**Solution:** Avoid loading foreign objects. Replace damaged paddles.

For PTO shaft issues, use this guide:

• **Symptom: Whips/shakes.**

**Problem:** The PTO is overextended or bent.

**Solution:** Adjust the tractor drawbar length as specified. Straighten or replace the PTO shaft.

• **Symptom: Vibrates up & down.**

**Problem:** The spreader center shaft is bent.

**Solution:** Replace the center shaft.

• **Symptom: Worn Universal Joints.**

**Problem:** Lack of lubrication or the joint is used.

**Solution:** Lubricate the joints daily. Replace the joint if it is worn out.

• **Symptom: Excessive chain wear.**

**Problem:** Lack of lubrication or the chain is out of alignment/loose.

**Solution:** Lubricate, align, and/or tighten the chain.

• **Symptom: Roller chain breakage.**

**Problem:** The roller chain is loose or the sprockets are worn.

**Solution:** Tighten the roller chain and replace worn sprockets.

• **Symptom: Sprocket teeth are tipped over.**

**Problem:** The roller chain or roller bearings are worn.

**Solution:** Replace the worn roller chain and/or bearings.

If you are having problems with the spinners, refer to this troubleshooting guide:

• **Symptom: Spinners turn hard/squeak.**

**Problem:** Bad lower spinner bearings.

**Solution:** Replace the lower spinner bearings.

• **Symptom: Shake at high RPM’s (excessive vibration).**

**Problem:** Spinner is bent or out of balance, or the lower spinner sleeve/shaft is worn out.

**Solution:** Straighten, balance, or replace the spinner. Replace the lower spinner sleeve/shaft and reweld.

• **Symptom: Excessive paddle damage.**

**Problem:** Spinner RPM is too slow, manure is lodging, or you are spreading foreign objects.

**Solution:** Operate the spreader at the recommended 540 RPM, adjust material guides, straighten/replace paddles, keep paddles sharpened, and avoid loading foreign objects.

For issues with the trip pan doors:

• **Symptom: Will not latch (close).**

**Problem:** The doors are dirty, the Poly Slick is loose, or the doors are bent.

**Solution:** Clean the doors, refasten or replace the Poly Slick, and straighten or replace the doors.

• **Symptom: Will not unlatch (open).**

**Problem:** The mechanism is locked, frozen tight, or rusted.

**Solution:** Unlatch the lever manually. Thaw any frozen build-up and oil the shaft.