TRX-250 and TRX-300 Trencher

Before starting the machine each day, perform the Each Use/Daily procedures listed in .

1. Move the throttle lever midway between the SLOW and FAST positions (Figure 16).

   

   Figure 16

   1. Choke lever (Toro engines only)
   2. Throttle lever
   3. Key

2. For Toro engines, do the following:

   1. Move the choke lever to the ON position (Figure 16).

      Note: A warm or hot engine may not require choking.

   2. Turn the key to the ON position (Figure 16). When the engine starts, release the key.

   3. Gradually move the choke lever to the OFF position (Figure 16). If the engine stalls or hesitates, engage the choke again until the engine warms up.

3. For Kohler engines, turn the key to the ON position (Figure 16). When the engine starts, release the key.

4. Move the throttle lever to the desired setting (Figure 16).

   Important: Running the engine at high speeds when the hydraulic system is cold (i.e., when the air temperature is at or below freezing) could damage the hydraulic system. When starting the engine in cold conditions, allow it to run in the middle throttle position for 2 to 5 minutes before moving the throttle to the FAST position.

   Note: If the outdoor temperature is below freezing, store the machine in a garage to keep it warmer and aid in starting.

Use the traction controls to move the machine. The farther you move the traction controls in any direction, the faster the machine moves in that direction. Release the traction controls to stop the machine.

The throttle control regulates the engine speed as measured in rpm (revolutions per minute). Place the throttle lever in the FAST position for best performance. You can, however, use the throttle position to operate at slower speeds.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Move the throttle lever to the SLOW position (Figure 16).

3. If the engine has been working hard or is hot, let it idle for a minute before turning the key switch to the OFF position.

   Note: This helps to cool the engine before you shut it off. In an emergency, you can shut off the engine immediately.

4. Turn the key switch to the OFF position and remove the key.

   Caution

   A child or untrained bystander could attempt to operate the machine and be injured.

   Remove the key from the switch when leaving the machine, even if just for a few seconds.

1. Start the engine, raise the boom, move the throttle lever to the FAST position, and move the machine over the area to be trenched.

   Important: Allow the machine to warm up for several minutes before digging.

2. Pull the trencher control lever to the reference bar to engage the trencher.

3. Without moving the traction controls, slowly lower the boom and chain into the ground to the desired depth.

4. Once the trencher boom is in the ground at a 45° to 60° angle, slowly move the machine rearward to extend the trench.

   Note: While trenching, the drive speed automatically decreases.

5. When finished, raise the boom out of the trench, then stop the trencher.

• Clean the area of trash, branches, and rocks before trenching to prevent damaging the machine.

• Always begin trenching with the slowest ground speed possible. Increase speed if conditions permit. If the chain speed slows down, reduce the ground speed to keep the chain moving at its fastest rate. Do not spin the tracks while trenching.

• Always use full throttle (maximum engine speed) when trenching.

• Always trench backward (i.e., in reverse).

• Trench with the chain at a 45° to 60° angle for best results.

• You will be able to dig a trench faster by controlling the depth with periodic adjustments of the boom.

• If the trencher binds in the soil, reverse the chain direction. Once the chain is loose, change chain directions and continue trenching.

• If you need the finished trench to be cleaner than what is possible with the trencher, you can purchase a crumber from your dealer. The crumber mounts onto the trencher head and scrapes the trench clean as you dig.

• To improve the quality of trenches less than 61 cm (24 inches) deep, use a 61 cm (24 inch) boom.

• Use the correct chain for the ground conditions, as listed in the following table:

  Soil Type	Recommended Chain Type
  Sandy	Soil chain (configure with extra teeth for a faster digging speed; refer to your Authorized Service Dealer)
  Sandy Loam/Loam/Loamy Clay	Soil chain
  Wet, sticky clay	Soil chain
  Hard soils: dry clay and compacted soils	Combination chain
  Rocky soil/gravel	Rock chain

Important: Do not operate or drive the machine on roadways. Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Secure the machine to a trailer with chains or straps using the tie-down/lift loops at the front and rear of the machine (Figure 17 and Figure 18). Refer to your local ordinances for trailer and tie-down requirements.

   

   Figure 17

   1. Front tie-down loop
   

   Figure 18

   1. Rear tie-down loops

Important: Use a spreader bar when lifting to avoid damage to the machine.

You can lift the machine using the tie-down/lift loops as lift points (Figure 17 and Figure 18).

Figure 19

1. Spreader bar

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

   Warning

   There is a rotating shaft under the cover that is moving when the machine is running and can catch fingers, hands, loose hair, and clothing, causing serious injury, amputation, or death.

   Always shut off the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop before removing the cover.

3. Loosen the 3 bolts securing the cover plate to the frame sequentially until the cover is loose (Figure 20).

   

   Figure 20

   1. Bolt (3)
   2. Cover plate

4. Slide the cover plate toward the right side of the machine, then pull it off over the bolts and off the machine.

5. To install the cover plate before operating the machine, slide the plate into place and tighten the 3 bolts you loosened previously (Figure 20).

Note: The fasteners on the covers of this machine are designed to remain on the cover after removal. Loosen all fasteners on each cover a few turns so that the cover is loose but still attached, then go back and loosen them until the cover comes free. This prevents you from accidentally stripping the bolts free of the retainers.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Loosen the 2 bolts securing the bottom shield sequentially until the shield is free (Figure 21).

   

   Figure 21

   1. Bottom shield
   2. Bolts

4. Pull the shield back and out of the machine.

5. To install the shield before operating the machine, slide the bottom shield into the machine so that it rests on all 4 tabs and secure it with the 2 bolts you loosened previously.

   Note: You may need to lift up on the bottom shield to ensure that it rests on the front tabs.

   

   Figure 22

   1. Front tab (2)
   2. Rear tab (2)

Grease Type: General-purpose grease.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Clean the grease fittings with a rag.

4. Connect a grease gun to each fitting (Figure 23 through Figure 25).

5. Pump grease into the fittings until grease begins to ooze out of the bearings (approximately 3 pumps).

6. Wipe up any excess grease.

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Grease Type: General-purpose grease.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Clean the trencher housing grease fitting with a rag and connect a grease gun to it (Figure 26).

   

   Figure 26

4. Pump grease into the fitting until grease comes out of the grease valve located next to the fitting.

5. Wipe up any excess grease.

Use the following graphic to identify the engine you have and proceed to the section listed below for service (Figure 27).

Figure 27

1. Kohler engine
2. Toro engine

• For Kohler engine maintenance, refer to Servicing a Kohler® Engine.

• For Toro engine maintenance, refer to Servicing a Toro Engine.

Close the fuel-shutoff valve for transport, maintenance, and storage. Ensure that the fuel-shutoff valve is open when starting the engine.

Figure 48

1. Location for Kohler engines
2. Location for Toro engines
3. Open position
4. Hose clamp (2)
5. Closed position

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Turn the fuel-shutoff valve to the closed position (Figure 48).

4. Squeeze the ends of the hose clamp on the engine side of the valve together and slide it up the fuel line away from the valve (Figure 48).

5. Pull the fuel line off the valve (Figure 48).

6. Open the fuel-shutoff valve and allow the fuel to drain into a fuel can or drain pan.

   Note: If desired, you can replace the fuel filter at this time; refer to Replacing the Fuel Filter.

7. Install the fuel line onto the fuel-shutoff valve. Slide the hose clamp close to the valve to secure the fuel line.

8. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

Never install a dirty filter if it is removed from the fuel line.

Note: Note how the fuel filter is installed in order to install the new filter correctly.

Note: Wipe up any spilled fuel.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the closed position (Figure 48).

4. Replace the fuel filter (Figure 49).

   

   Figure 49

   Filter for Toro engine shown

5. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the open position (Figure 48).

6. Check for fuel leaks and repair if needed.

7. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

Voltage: 12 V with 350 A (cold cranking) at -18°C (0ºF).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Remove the bolt and access panel on the right side of the machine (Figure 53).

   

   Figure 53

   1. Bolt
   2. Access panel

4. Replace any blown fuses (Figure 54).

   

   Figure 54

   1. Fan— (15 A, Model 22984 only)
   2. Fan— (15 A)
   3. Accessory—(10 A)
   4. Main power (10 A)

5. Install the access panel and secure it with the bolt (Figure 53).

1. Engage the parking-brake; refer to Parking-Brake Lever.

2. Start the engine.

3. Slowly attempt to drive the machine forward or rearward.

4. If the machine moves, contact your Authorized Service Dealer for service.

Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 23 L (6 US gallons)

Use only 1 of the following fluids in the hydraulic system:

• Toro Premium Transmission/Hydraulic Tractor Fluid (refer to your Authorized Service Dealer for more information)

• Toro PX Extended Life Hydraulic Fluid (refer to your Authorized Service Dealer for more information)

• If either of the above Toro fluids are not available, you may use another Universal Tractor Hydraulic Fluid (UTHF), but they must be only conventional, petroleum-based products. The specifications must fall within the listed range for all the following material properties and the fluid should meet the listed industry standards. Check with your hydraulic fluid supplier to determine if the fluid meets these specifications.

  Note: Toro will not assume responsibility for damage caused by improper substitutions, so use only products from reputable manufacturers who will stand behind their recommendations.

  Material Properties
  Viscosity, ASTM D445	cSt at 40°C: 55 to 62
  	cSt at 100°C: 9.1 to 9.8
  Viscosity index, ASTM D2270	140 to 152
  Pour Point, ASTM D97	-37 to -43°C (-35 to -46°F)
  Industry Standards
  API GL-4, AGCO Powerfluid 821 XL, Ford New Holland FNHA-2-C-201.00, Kubota UDT, John Deere J20C, Vickers 35VQ25 and Volvo WB-101/BM

  Note: Many hydraulic fluids are almost colorless, making it difficult to spot leaks. A red dye additive for the hydraulic system fluid is available in 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) bottles. One bottle is sufficient for 15 to 22 L (4 to 6 US gallons) of hydraulic fluid. Order Part No. 44-2500 from your Authorized Service Dealer.

Refer to Hydraulic Fluid Specifications.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Look into the glass bubble on the right side of the machine. If you cannot see hydraulic fluid in the bubble, continue this procedure to add fluid.

   

   Figure 61

   1. Hydraulic-fluid check bubble

4. Remove the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

5. Clean the area around the filler neck of the hydraulic tank and remove the cap and filter from the filler neck using a socket (Figure 62).

   

   Figure 62

   1. Filler-neck cap
   2. Hydraulic-fluid filter

6. If the level is low, add fluid until it is visible in the glass bubble.

7. Install the cap and filter on the filler neck and torque bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

8. Install the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Remove the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

4. Remove and discard the old filter (Figure 63).

   

   Figure 63

   1. Filler cap
   2. Hydraulic filter

5. Install the replacement hydraulic filter and filler cap (Figure 63) and torque the bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

6. Clean up any spilled fluid.

7. Install the top cover.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Allow the machine to cool completely.

4. Raise the machine and support it using jackstands rated for the machine.

5. Remove the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

6. Remove the bottom shield; refer to Removing the Bottom Shield.

7. Remove the hydraulic-tank filler cap and filter (Figure 63).

8. Place a drain pan capable of holding 37.8 L (10 US Gallons) under the drain plug.

9. Remove the drain plug and allow the hydraulic fluid to drain into the pan (Figure 64).

   

   Figure 64

   1. Drain plug

10. When finished, install the drain plug.

    Note: Dispose of the used oil at a certified recycling center.

11. Fill the hydraulic tank with hydraulic fluid; refer to Hydraulic Fluid Specifications.

12. Install the hydraulic filter and filler cap (Figure 63) and torque the bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

13. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.

14. Shut off the engine.

15. Check the hydraulic-fluid level and top it off if necessary; refer to Checking the Hydraulic-Fluid Level.

16. Clean up any spilled fluid.

17. Install the top cover and bottom shield.

18. Lower the machine.

Due to the high amount of wear placed on the digging teeth, you will need to replace them periodically.

To replace a single tooth, remove the bolts securing the tooth to remove it, then install a new tooth in the same position. Torque the bolts securing the teeth to 37 to 45 N∙m (27 to 33 ft-lb).

• Check each link in the chain for excessive wear, such as links that can no longer hold teeth.

• Inspect the bottom of the boom for wear.

• With the trencher boom parallel to the ground, ensure that there are 3.8 to 6.3 cm (1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches) between the bottom of the boom and the top of the bottom chain span. If not, adjust the chain tension.

  Important: Do not overtighten the chain. Excessive chain tension may damage drive components.

To replace a worn chain, flip or replace a worn boom, or adjust the chain tension, use the following procedure:

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. If you are replacing the chain or flipping or replacing the boom, complete the following:

   1. Remove the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm (Figure 64).

      

      Figure 65

      1. Bolts
      2. Jam nut
      3. Adjusting bolt

   2. Loosen the jam nut on the adjusting bolt in the boom.

   3. Loosen the adjusting bolt until you can remove the chain from the boom.

   4. Remove the chain from the drive sprocket.

   5. If the chain needs replacing, remove the bolt and nut securing the spoils auger and remove the auger and chain.

   6. Remove the boom, flip it over so the bottom becomes the top (or if you have already flipped it once, replace it), and install the boom again.

   7. Replace the nuts, bolts, and washers to secure the boom.

   8. If you are installing a new chain, connect the links by pressing or hammering the clevis pin supplied with the chain through the links, then secure the clevis pin with the cotter pin supplied with the chain.

      Important: To avoid bending the chain links, place blocks under and between the links when hammering the clevis pin through.

   9. Install the chain over the drive sprocket and front roller.

   10. If you removed the spoils auger, install it using the bolt and nut you removed previously. Torque the bolt and nut to 102 N∙m (75 ft-lb).

   11. Skip to step 6 to complete the adjustment.

4. Loosen the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm

5. Loosen the jam nut securing the adjustment bolt.

6. Turn the adjustment bolt in or out as needed to achieve the desired tension.

7. Tighten the jam nut.

8. Torque the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to 183 to 223 N∙m (135 to 165 ft-lb).

Over time, the drive sprocket wears, especially when it is used in sandy or clay soils. When this happens, the digging chain begins to slip. If the chain slips, replace the drive sprocket as follows:

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake

2. Raise the trencher a few inches above the ground.

3. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

4. Remove the spoils auger (Figure 66).

   

   Figure 66

   1. Spoils auger
   2. Bolts
   3. Drive sprocket
   4. Sprocket mounting surface

5. Loosen the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm.

6. Loosen the jam nut on the adjusting bolt in the boom.

7. Loosen the adjusting bolt until you can remove the chain from the boom.

8. Remove the chain from the drive sprocket.

9. Remove the 6 bolts securing the drive sprocket (Figure 66).

10. Remove and discard the drive sprocket (Figure 66).

11. Clean the sprocket mounting surface on the trencher (Figure 66).

12. Slide the new sprocket onto the shaft (Figure 66).

    Important: The arrow on the sprocket face should be visible from the right side of the trench and should point in a clockwise direction; if not, turn the sprocket around.

13. Thread the 6 bolts into the sprocket finger tight (Figure 66).

14. Slowly begin tightening the bolts progressing around the sprocket until all bolts are torqued to 129 to 155 N∙m (95 to 115 ft-lb).

    Important: Tighten each bolt only halfway first, working your way around the 6 bolts, then return to each bolt in turn and torque them

15. Loop the chain over the auger drive shaft and onto the drive sprocket, ensuring that the teeth point forward on the upper span.

16. Set the upper span of the chain into place on the trencher boom, then wrap the chain around the roller at the end of the boom.

17. Thread the adjustment bolt into the boom and turn it in until there is 3.8 to 6.3 cm (1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches) of slack in the chain on the bottom span.

18. Thread the jam nut down the adjusting bolt and tighten it securely against the boom.

19. Torque the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to 183 to 223 N∙m (135 to 165 ft-lb).

20. Install the spoils auger using the bolt and nut you removed previously.

    Note: Torque the bolt and nut to 102 N∙m (75 ft-lb).

Important: Use care when using a high-pressure washer, because it can damage decals, the engine, and electrical and hydraulic systems, and it can deplete grease. Ensure that the fuel-tank cap and oil cap/dipstick are secure to avoid getting water in the engine. Keep water away from electrical items and hydraulic valves.

Important: Operating the engine with blocked screens, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed will result in engine damage from overheating.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the boom.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for the engine to cool.

3. Wipe away debris from the air cleaner.

4. Clean any debris buildup on the engine and muffler with a brush or blower.

   Important: It is preferable to blow dirt out, rather than washing it out. If you use water, keep it away from electrical items and hydraulic valves. Do not use a high-pressure washer on the engine.

5. Clean debris from the oil cooler.