American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit Instruction Manual

Introduction

The American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit is designed to provide a reliable and efficient solution for managing game feeding schedules. This kit features a durable steel control box, an industrial-grade motor, and a digital timer for precise control over feed distribution. This manual will guide you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your feeder kit, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

An image showing the main components of the American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit, including the black feeder unit and its separate digital timer control panel.

Safety Information

For safe and effective use of the American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit, please adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Use only appropriate food types for the target species.
• Secure the feeder to prevent access by larger animals or predators.

Product Features and Components

The American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit is engineered with several key features to enhance its performance and user experience:

• XDE Feeder Kit: Designed for precise control over feeding schedules to support deer populations.
• Best Function: Compatible with twist-lock or flat-mount hoppers, featuring a metal spin plate and an industrial-grade motor resistant to jamming.
• Digital Timer: An intuitive and easy-to-read digital timer allows for custom time settings (1-16), run times (0-60 seconds), optional day-of-the-week settings, and reverse polarity protection.
• Rail Mount: Includes a rail-mount system for quick attachment of optional accessories like feeder meters and solar panels (not included).
• Ultimate Deer Feeder: Supports the health and viability of your deer herd by providing consistent nutrient and foodstuff distribution.

The American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit shown in an outdoor setting, demonstrating its compact design and how it blends into the environment.

A detailed view of the digital timer for the XDE Feeder Kit, highlighting its display and control buttons. The screen shows current time, set time, day, and duration settings.

An image of the XDE Feeder Kit with text overlays pointing out its main attributes: compatibility with twist-lock or flat mounting, an upgraded industrial-grade motor, a rail mount for accessories, and options for solar panels and remote activators.

Setup and Installation

Before operating your American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit, proper setup and installation are crucial for optimal performance and reliability.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Verify that all parts listed in the 'Included Components' section are present.
2. Battery Installation: The feeder kit requires a 6V or 12V battery (not included). Open the battery compartment and connect the battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity. Some users have found that adding a small piece of foam rubber or a spacer behind the battery can improve contact reliability.
3. Mounting: The XDE Feeder Kit is compatible with twist-lock or flat-mount hoppers. Securely attach the feeder kit to your chosen hopper. The integrated rail-mount system allows for easy attachment to various feeder setups.
4. Initial Power-Up: Once the battery is connected and the unit is mounted, the digital timer should power on. If it does not, check battery connections and charge level.

For detailed assembly instructions specific to your hopper type, refer to the hopper's manual.

Operating Instructions

The digital timer allows for precise control over your feeding schedule. Familiarize yourself with the timer's interface for effective programming.

Digital Timer Programming

The XDE Feeder Kit's digital timer offers up to 16 custom time settings and run times from 0 to 60 seconds. It also includes two preconfigured settings for quick setup.

1. Accessing Program Mode: Press the 'PROG' button to enter the programming menu.
2. Setting Current Time: Use the arrow buttons to adjust the current time (hour and minute). Press 'ENTER' to confirm.
3. Setting Feed Times: Navigate to the desired feed time slot (e.g., 'SET 1'). Adjust the start time and duration (0-60 seconds) for each feeding event. You can set up to 16 distinct feeding times.
4. Selecting Days of the Week: For each feed time, you can select specific days of the week for it to activate. Use the arrow buttons to toggle days on or off.
5. Saving Settings: After configuring your desired settings, ensure they are saved according to the timer's instructions, typically by pressing 'ENTER' or 'PROG' again to exit the menu.
6. Test Function: Use the 'TEST' button to manually activate the feeder for a short duration to verify functionality.

Note: The timer features reverse polarity protection to prevent damage from incorrect battery connection.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit.

• Cleaning: Periodically clean the metal spin plate and the motor housing to prevent buildup of feed residue, which can lead to jamming. Use a dry cloth or soft brush.
• Battery Check: Monitor battery levels regularly. Replace or recharge batteries as needed to ensure consistent operation. A low battery can affect the feeder's performance and timer accuracy.
• Inspection: Routinely inspect all components for wear and tear, especially the motor, wiring, and mounting points. Address any loose connections or damaged parts promptly.
• Storage: If storing the feeder for an extended period, remove the battery and clean the unit thoroughly. Store in a dry, protected area.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your XDE Feeder Kit and provides potential solutions.

If issues persist after attempting these solutions, contact American Hunter customer support for further assistance.

Product Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit:

Warranty and Legal Information

Warranty

The American Hunter XDE Feeder Kit comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For warranty claims or detailed terms, please contact American Hunter customer service.

Legal Disclaimer

Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.