LOGIC GDS200/250 GROUND DRIVE MULTI-SPREADER
USER MANUAL
Model: WM2-GDS200
1 Introduction
With the purchase of your LOGIC GROUND DRIVE MULTI – SPREADER, you have made an excellent choice. This machine is designed to provide first-class service for a long time if used correctly and maintained as described in this manual. The flexibility of ground drive allows a wide choice of towing vehicles and spreading width variation to suit many situations. Its design and construction are of high quality, with anti-corrosive components used throughout. Various options such as wheels, mudguards, couplings, flashing beacon, and road lights are available to complete any required specification.
If you have any queries after reading this manual, please contact Logic Manufacturing.
NORTH & EXPORT
LOGIC MANUFACTURING LTD
Foundry Industrial Estate
Bridge End, Hexham
Northumberland NE46 4JL
Tel: 01434 606661
Fax: 01434 608143
E-mail: sales@LogicToday.co.uk
www.LogicToday.co.uk
SOUTH
LOGIC MH LTD - New Whiteway Works,
Fossecross Industrial Estate
Chedworth. Cheltenham
Gloucestershire GL54 4NW
Tel: 01285 720930
Fax: 01285 720840
E-mail: sales@LogicToday.co.uk
www.LogicToday.co.uk
2 Safety Information
The following sections provide essential safety information. Please read carefully.
2.1 In the Interest of Safety: DO NOT
- DO NOT operate the spreader unless you have read this entire manual.
- DO NOT operate the spreader if any parts are defective; replace any defective parts before use.
- DO NOT touch moving parts.
- DO NOT exceed sensible towing speeds. (Max 30mph)
2.2 In the Interest of Safety: DO
- DO follow all manufacturer's guidelines.
- DO attach the spreader to a suitable towing vehicle.
- DO follow all manufacturer's service instructions.
- DO be aware of travelling conditions – do not exceed sensible speeds.
- DO follow all safety instructions in this manual.
- DO make sure all persons are a safe distance when operating the spreader, especially when operating in areas used by the public.
- DO make sure all nuts, bolts, and fittings are secure before using and check at regular intervals during operation.
- DO avoid excessively steep slopes or adverse ground conditions.
3 Instructions / Warning Decals
The following decals are important for safe operation and should be located on your spreader. If any decals are missing or damaged, contact Logic for replacements before use.
- LOGIC Logo Decal: Identifies the manufacturer.
- Read Operators Manual Decal: A symbol of an open book with an exclamation mark, indicating the need to read the operator's manual before use.
- CE Mark and Technical Data Plate: Shows CE conformity and provides technical details like Model/Type, Maximum Gross Mass, Unladen Mass, and Year.
- Design Right Decal: Indicates the product is protected by Design Right.
- Wheel Nuts Tight Decal: Reminds users to keep wheel nuts tight and check daily, and to refer to the operator's manual for correct tyre inflation pressure and towing vehicle limits.
- Spreader Setting Scale Decal: A numbered scale (0-10) likely indicating a setting for material flow or spread width.
- Warning Symbol Decal: A yellow triangle with a black exclamation mark, indicating a general warning.
- DANGER Decal: A yellow warning sign with black text stating "Keep clear of rotating blades until all motion has stopped." accompanied by a graphic showing hands near rotating blades.
4 Lifting Points
The GDS has three clearly marked lifting point positions. Always lift from these points.
- Use lifting slings; never lifting chains.
- Ensure safe lifting by using slings that comply with BS EN1492-1.
- Never lift the GDS200/250 when the hopper is loaded.
- Always check lifting load limits before lifting.
- Follow lifting equipment manufacturer's guidelines at all times.
- Position lifting slings where the symbol (a yellow tag with a black outline of a sling) is shown.
- Ensure pedestrians are clear from danger.
- Protect paintwork to prevent strap damage.
NB: Refer to the manufacturer's weight plate on the spreader for unladen lifting weight.
5 Operating Instructions and Adjustments
The spreader is designed for safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions and intended use. Read and understand this manual before operating the unit, as failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
5.1 Initial Check
Make sure that all nuts, bolts, and fittings are securely fixed, and that all packaging materials (e.g., wire bands, tape) have been removed.
5.2 Attaching to the Towing Vehicle
The Logic Multi-Spreader can be towed by a wide range of suitable vehicles, from ATVs to tractors, vans, and 4x4s. Standard coupling is by swivel ball hitch, though options include clevis or ring for tractor hitches.
The Multi-Spreader should be as level as possible during operation. The coupling housing can be positioned above or below the drawbar to achieve this. For other measures, contact the Logic office.
Attach the wire cable (secondary coupling, for statutory safeguard) to a point on the towing bracket. A suggested position is over the ball. Then, attach the swivel coupling to the ball. Ensure the coupling is properly seated and check for any obstructions that may affect full movement.
5.3 Operating Principles
- Before loading, check that the belt drive is disengaged and the feed gate is closed.
- It is essential to consider the towing vehicle's weight restrictions. (See manufacturer's plate on GDS for loading limits).
- Never overload the hopper and take particular note of the tyres for signs of wear or deflation. Check tyre pressure regularly: lug tread tyres should be 26 psi, road tyres should be 45 psi.
- The hopper should be filled through the loading screen to prevent foreign bodies entering the discharge mechanism. Filling by hand is quick; filling with a mechanical shovel requires caution to prevent pushing the agitator bar sideways. Fill the hopper slowly and from a central position.
- Check the drive is still disengaged, then drive carefully to the operation area at a maximum speed of 30 mph.
- Set the discharge feed gate to the required opening for the appropriate application rate. Refer to the calibration section. NOTE: If the load has consolidated after a long journey, attach the hand lever to the agitator beam, shake vigorously, open the feed gate to maximum for 5-10 seconds, then re-set the feed gate to the appropriate setting.
- Check that the offset vanes on the drop chute are set correctly. Refer to the calibration guide.
- Move the engagement lever to the 'drive' position. Variations of the engagement lever handle are available for ease of use.
- Move off with the towing vehicle to reach the operating speed as quickly and safely as possible.
- Maintain the correct forward speed. Speeding up creates a wider spread width; slowing down reduces it. Fluctuations in speed may be necessary for junctions, traffic lights, and hazards. The unit is small and manoeuvrable enough to cover the treatment area again to fill in missed pieces.
- When treating highways with salt, travel on the nearside of the road with the offset adjustment set to cover the centre area of both carriageways. Dry salt bounces further, and traffic will disperse salt particles on the road margins. When spreading on snow-covered roads, there is no bounce effect, so a wider spreading width may be required. Increase material feed to the spinner to increase the application rate per square metre.
⚠️ WHEN SPREADING IS COMPLETE OR WHEN THE HOPPER IS EMPTY, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE ENGAGEMENT LEVER IS MOVED TO DISENGAGE. FAILURE TO DO THIS, ESPECIALLY WHEN TRAVELLING DISTANCES OR AT HIGHER SPEEDS, CAN RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE DISC AND AGITATOR DRIVE SYSTEM.
5.4 Calibration
The Logic Multi-Spreader can spread a wide range of flow-able products, most commonly salt, sand, and grit. Calibration principles are generally the same, with one mechanical adjustment for application rate. Material properties (density, moisture) will vary.
The following steps are a guide; test runs are recommended before setting out to check quantity and pattern.
Forward speed controls spreading width; feed gate setting controls material flow and application rate (grams per square metre). The feed gate slide opens from 0 to 6.5 (65mm).
Recommended Speeds:
- Minimum forward speed: 5 mph (8 kph) for confined spaces or minimum width (approx. 5' / 1.5m spread).
- Maximum speed: 15 mph (24 kph) for roads/car parks (approx. 32' / 10m spread).
CALIBRATION STAGES
- Decide the required spread width in relation to a safe working speed.
| Forward Speed | Standard Gearbox (g/b) | Fast Gearbox (f g/b) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mph | 1.5m | 3m |
| 10 mph | 6m | 10m |
| 15 mph | 10m | 14m |
- Select the feed gate setting to achieve the desired application rate. This depends on trials with the specific material.
| Feed Gate Setting (cm) | Forward Speed (mph) | Standard Gearbox (s g/b) (gr/sq m) | Fast Gearbox (f g/b) (gr/sq m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5 | 25 | 12 |
| 2 | 10 | 5 | 3 |
| 4 | 5 | 50 | 25 |
| 4 | 10 | 10 | 6 |
| 6 | 5 | 80 | 40 |
| 6 | 10 | 20 | 12 |
| 6 | 15 | 12 | 7 |
- To check accuracy, perform trial runs on a clean surface at the correct forward speed. Check spread width (may vary with dry material bounce). Check application rate by sweeping up 1 sq metre and weighing the contents, or use a 1m x 1m paper to collect material over several passes for an average result.
- Write down results for future reference.
5.5 Spreader Pattern Adjustment
The drop chute directs material onto the spinning disc. Two deflector vanes can be adjusted to:
- Symmetrical Spreading: Material deflected to the centre of the disc for an even spread pattern.
- Asymmetrical Use: Material deflected to either side of the disc for pavements or roads.
The optimum gap between vanes is 60-100mm, depending on material dryness. Wetter material may require a larger gap.
VANE SETTINGS GUIDE Diagrams Description:
- The diagrams show the spreader disc from above and below.
- Top View Diagrams: Illustrate symmetrical and asymmetrical settings. Symmetrical shows vanes directing material towards the center. Asymmetrical settings show vanes directing material towards the right or left edge of the disc, labeled "MAX SETTING TO RIGHT" and "MAX SETTING TO LEFT".
- Bottom View Diagrams: Show the resulting spread pattern from the disc. Symmetrical shows a 50%/50% split. Asymmetrical "MAX TO RIGHT" shows a 10% spread to the left and 90% to the right. Asymmetrical "MAX TO LEFT" shows a 90% spread to the left and 10% to the right.
5.6 Spreader Settings Chart
This chart provides example settings for different materials and conditions.
| MATERIAL | TOWING VEHICLE | OPERATING SPEED (mph) | SPREAD WIDTH (m) | FEED GATE SETTING | APPLICATION RATE (gms/sqm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (EXAMPLE) SAND (wet) | Kubota Tractor | 10 | 6 | 4 | 10 |
5.7 Spreader Tyre Pressures
Correct tyre pressure is critical for performance and safety.
| TYRE | SIZE/MAKE | RECOMMENDED PRESSURE |
|---|---|---|
| WT950L | 7-14 Fieldmax | 26 psi |
| WT950R | 7-14 Fieldmax | 26 psi |
| WT750 | 195/60R14 Camac | 45 psi |
| WT750 | 195/60R14 Hankook | 45 psi |
6 Maintenance / Service
Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation. Always empty the hopper before any routine work.
6.1 Daily Checks
- Check tyre condition and pressure: lug-tread tyres – 26 psi, road tyres – 45 psi.
- Check wheel nuts are tight – 65 lbs ft torque.
- Check the belt cleaner is not worn and is in contact with the belt. Remove any build-up of salt and debris. Check the pressure strip below the belt cleaner is operating properly; replace if worn.
- Check the drop chute plate is operating correctly. If necessary, remove contact springs and clean under the plate to ensure good contact with the floor belt; replace springs after cleaning.
- Check and clean the hopper mesh. Inspect inside the hopper for debris (e.g., stones) that could cause problems on the next load.
- Empty any remaining salt products from the hopper if they are not going to be used within 24 hours.
- If the spreader has been used for salt products and will stand idle for more than 24 hours, wash it out with a pressure washer, preferably using warm water.
6.2 Weekly Checks
- Remove the transmission cover and check the condition of all belts.
- Check the idling pulley on the main drive belt for dust build-up and signs of wear. Ensure the lower belt stop on the drive axle is not fouled by foreign objects or dirt. The gap between the stop and the belt pulley should be approximately 6mm (A). Adjust if necessary by removing the stop from the axle and carefully bending it.
- Check the belt trap at the gearbox end of the drive belt surrounding the outer part of the 3-belt pulley for signs of misalignment or dirt. Re-adjust if necessary.
- Check the link belt stud heads are at 90° to the direction of travel.
- Check the plygene flap on the disc deflector plate surrounding the spreading disc for signs of wear. Replace if necessary.
- Grease the axle bearings: 2-3 pumps of a grease gun should be sufficient.
- Check the feed gate adjustment knob for lubrication. Use a metal-free, anti-seize compound.
- Pressure wash the machine, especially around the conveyor belt area, using warm water if possible.
- Check and lubricate the jack and drawbar coupling with an aerosol penetrating oil.
6.3 End of Season Checks
- Check the cam housing on the gearbox drive of the agitator. Remove the 4 bolts, dismantle, clean, and check for wear. Replace the lubricating agent with Grease-Super lube part no MLU-020 from Logic. Check other agitation system parts.
- Thoroughly clean the inside of the transmission housing, including all belts and the belt trap on the main drive belt.
- Release the tension on the floor belt and thoroughly check the condition of the belt (top and bottom) and rollers for damage or wear. The drive roller has a nylon bearing on each side. The idling roller is made of bearing material. Check for play on both rollers. When re-tensioning the floor belt at the start of a season, approximately 10-12mm of thread should show from the locknut on the tensioning bolts (factory setting). DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN. Insufficient tension causes slippage; over-tightening can cause belt damage and excessive bearing wear. Tighten 1mm at a time to overcome slippage.
- Check the main drive axle and bearings for signs of wear and replace any suspect bearings.
- Grease all sliding parts, including the feed gate, engagement levers, and linkages.
- Check the gearbox output shafts for signs of wear. NOTE: Both gearboxes are maintenance-free and should not be tampered with unless authorised by Logic.
- Slacken the bolts securing the drop chute vanes to allow free movement during the lay-off period.
- Check for damage to paintwork and repair.
- Pressure wash thoroughly inside and out using warm water.
- Store in a dry place if possible.
6.4 Drive Belt Replacement Procedure
6.4.1 Main Drive 'V' Belt
- Disengage the drive mechanism and remove the transmission cover.
- Jack up the drive side (nearside) of the axle. NOTE: Place a sturdy piece of wood across the bottom of the chassis cross member for the jack and support the rest of the spreader for complete stability.
- Remove the nearside drive wheel from the axle.
- Remove the nylon idle pulley (C) from the drive engagement linkage.
- Remove the drive belt stop bracket (D).
- Remove the belt trap (A) from the transmission guard.
- Remove the drive belt (B) from the main drive pulley and axle pulley.
- Remove the two bolts securing the drive wheel axle bearing. Allow the axle to drop just enough to remove the drive belt.
- Replace the old belt with a genuine Logic replacement belt.
- Re-assemble the drive belt system in reverse order of disassembly. NOTE: When replacing the belt trap around the main drive pulley, adjust the securing bolts to ensure it just clears the pulley and belt.
- No further tensioning is required, as this is built into the engagement linkage.
6.4.2 Spinner Drive Link Belt
- Remove the transmission cover.
- Remove the belt trap surrounding the outer groove of the main drive pulley.
- Remove the main drive 'V' belt (D) from the pulley.
- Place a suitable cloth around the link belt (E) to safely pull it sideways while rotating the main drive pulley. This should enable movement of the belt from grooves on both pulleys until it is free.
- Replace the link belt with a genuine pre-stretched Logic part. NOTE: The direction of travel is important when fitting the new belt; ensure the tails are leading.
- Place the belt in the outer groove of the smaller pulley, then push it into the outer groove of the larger pulley using a suitable implement (e.g., a hammer shank) while turning the main drive pulley to wind on the belt. Revolve the spinning disc to turn the pulley, thus pulling the belt into the groove.
- Use this method to move the belt sideways from groove to groove on each pulley.
- Replace the 'V' belt on the main drive pulley.
- Replace the belt trap around the outer groove of the main drive pulley. NOTE: Position the belt trap to ensure it just clears the pulley and belt before fully tightening the mounting bolts.
- Replace the transmission cover.
6.4.3 Tonneau Cover Kit (Part No. GDS108)
The optional tonneau cover fits over a support stay that slots into the centre of the hopper mesh. It is secured using an elasticated rope attached to bobbins on the hopper sides. To attach the bobbins, drill 8 holes (5.5mm diameter) at the points shown 'A' in the diagram. Secure with an M5 setscrew, and on the inside, a washer and M5 nyloc nut. NOTE: Smear the hole with grease before fitting the bobbin to prevent corrosion.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the top view of the hopper with attachment points marked 'A' for the tonneau cover bobbins. Dimensions are provided: 460mm, 260mm, and 80mm.
7 Specifications
Key specifications for the Logic GDS200/250 spreader.
| Road Specification | Off-Road Specification | |
|---|---|---|
| Hopper Capacity | 465 litres | 465 litres |
| Carrying Capacity | Approx 500kg dry salt | Approx 500kg dry salt |
| Wheel Size | 195/60 R14 | 27 x 7-14 Lug Tread |
| Offset Spreading | Yes - Left and Right | Yes - Left and Right |
| Hopper Metal Thickness | 2mm | 2mm |
| Drive Engagement | Hand Lever | Hand Lever |
| Towing Hitch | 50mm Swivel Coupling | 50mm Swivel Coupling |
| Mudguards | Standard | N/A |
| Lights | Standard | N/A |
| Unladen Weight (Stainless) | 298kg | 279kg |
| Unladen Weight (Painted) | 306kg | 287kg |
Options
- Standard Gearbox: 1.5 - 10m Spread width (Based on dry rock salt)
- High Speed Gearbox: 3 - 14m Spread width (Based on dry rock salt)
- Flashing Beacon
- Tonneau Cover c/w Support
- WT811: 25 x 10-12 Flotation Wheels
- Towing Clevis/ Jaw: 45mm Clevis to take a 16mm pin
- Towing Ring: 30, 40, 50mm ID Rings available
Diagram Description: The diagram shows a top-down and side view of the spreader with overall dimensions indicated: 3020mm length, 1480mm width (main body), 1080mm drawbar length, 1130mm height, 1300mm width (including wheels). Dimensions are based on road specification models.
8 Parts Information
This section provides an overview of the parts list and diagrams. For a complete list, refer to the original document.
Diagram Description: An exploded view diagram shows the various components of the spreader, with numerical labels corresponding to parts in the list. Major assemblies include the hopper, chassis, drive system, conveyor, and wheel components.
Parts List (Sample)
| Item | Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 001 | GDS200-001A | Hopper |
| 001 | GDS250-001A | Hopper Stainless Steel |
| 002 | GDS200-179 | Hopper Deflector strip |
| 003 | GDS200-118 | Hopper Front Deflector Strip |
| 004 | GDS200-007LA | Conveyor Nearside Panel |
| 005 | GDS200-007RA | Conveyor Offside panel |
| 006 | GDS200-017A | Conveyor Bed |
| 007 | GDS200-109 | Drive Roller Bearing |
| 008 | GDS200-108 | Drive Roller |
| 009 | GDS200-126 | Idle Pulley Seal |
| 010 | GDS200-110 | Conveyor Belt Idle Roller |
| 011 | GDS200-049 | Idle Roller Shaft |
| 012 | GDS200-119 | Conveyor Belt Cleaner |
| 013 | GDS200-008A | Chassis |
| 014 | GDS200-163A | Axle |
| 015 | GDS200-105 | Axle Drive Pulley |
| 016 | GDS200-125 | Axle Pulley seal |
| 017 | GDS200-127 | Bearing Pillow Block |
| 018 | GDS200-164 | Wheel Drive-Hub |
| 019 | GDS200-038 | Wheel Hub Washer |
| 020 | WT950 L/R / WT750 | Wheel & Tyre Off Road/On Road |
| 021 | SA200-1010 | End Cap 52 mm |
| 022 | SA900H | Hub Heavy Duty |
| 023 | S201-30 | Handle Grip |
| 025 | GDS200-032A | Drive Engagement Handle |
| 026 | GDS200-030A | Handle Centre Link |
| 027 | GDS200-053 | Handle Link Pivot Pin |
| 028 | FCG04074SS | Clip R 4 x 74 |
| 029 | GDS200-114 | Handle Linkage Spring |
| 030 | GDS200-046A | Handle Bottom Link |
| 030 | GDS250-046A | Handle Bottom Link Stainless Steel |
| 031 | GDS200-016A | Drive Engagement Lever |
| 032 | GDS200-115 | Engagement Lever Return Spring |
| 033 | GDS200-099A | Idle Pulley Bush |
| 034 | GDS200-098 | Idle Pulley |
| 035 | GDS200-103 | Spur Reduction Gearbox |
| 036 | GDS200-009A | Transmission Guard |
| 036 | GDS250-009A | Transmission Guard Stainless Steel |
| 037 | GDS200-106 | Spur Gearbox Pulley |
| 038 | GDS200-113 | Rear Drive Belt |
| 039 | GDS200-112 | Main Drive Belt |
9 Logic Manufacturing Products Owner (Guarantee)
This Logic Manufacturing product is guaranteed against faulty workmanship and materials for a period of 6 months from the date of purchase. On engine-powered equipment, the engine manufacturer's guarantee will apply, subject to their terms and conditions.
All claims must be made in writing within 28 days of the alleged failure and must be made through the dealer who originally supplied the machine. Any defective parts must be kept for inspection and, if requested, sent to the factory or dealer. The customer must bring equipment for repair to the dealer.
This guarantee becomes void if unauthorised modifications have been made, or if parts not manufactured, supplied, or approved by Logic Manufacturing have been fitted to the machine.
Logic accepts no liability for normal wear and tear, misuse, abuse, or where recommended maintenance has not been carried out. All guarantee work must be authorised by Logic Manufacturing prior to any work being done. Work carried out without their consent may not be reimbursed.
10 Declaration of Conformity
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY 93 / 44 EEC
LOGIC MANUFACTURING LTD
Foundry Industrial Estate
Bridge End
HEXHAM
Northumberland
Product Type: GDS200/250—GROUND DRIVE SPREADER RANGE
Covered By Technical File Number: CE – GDS200
Serial Number: [Not Specified]
Standards and Regulations Used:
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992
HSE Guide Lines on ATV Equipment (Agric Sheet No. 33)
Place of Issue: United Kingdom
Name of Authorised Representative: S A WEIR
Position of Authorised Representative: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Declaration: I declare that as the authorised representative, the above information in relation to the supply / manufacture of this product, is in conformity with the stated standards and other related documents following the provisions of 93/68EEC directives.
Signature of Authorised Representative: [Signature Placeholder]
Date: 05/07/2010
Appendix: HSE Information Sheet on Safe Use of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
This information sheet provides advice on the safe use of ATVs, covering two main types used in off-road working: Sit-astride ATVs (e.g., quad bikes) and Side-by-side ATVs (e.g., UTVs/RTVs). ATVs are often fitted with tow hitches and can tow loads.
Hazards
ATVs can become unstable if used outside their safe operating parameters. Main causes of injury include:
- Being thrown off during overturns or loss of control.
- Collisions with structures, trees, or other vehicles.
- Being trapped/asphyxiated under an overturned machine.
- Pedestrians being struck or run over.
Contributory factors include:
- Lack of training/experience.
- Incorrect/lack of head protection.
- Excessive speed.
- Operator age.
- Carrying passengers on sit-astride ATVs.
- Unbalanced loads or overloading.
- Tipping on banks or ditches.
- Loss of control on slopes.
- Towing excessive loads with unbraked equipment.
- Poor maintenance (brakes, tyre pressures).
Control Measures for Sit-astride ATVs
Training
Employers must provide adequate training for employees using ATVs. Only trained employees should ride them. Training courses are available from franchised dealers, manufacturers' websites, EASI, BORDA, and colleges.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Head Protection: Essential. Use motorcycle, equestrian, specialist ATV, or cycle helmets tested to relevant standards. Ensure a chinstrap and suitable eye protection. Forestry helmets and industrial hard hats are not acceptable.
- Clothing: Wear strong clothing covering arms and legs. Gloves are useful. Wear sturdy, ankle-covering footwear with good wet grip.
- Eye Protection: Use a visor or goggles to protect from insects and branches.
Passengers: The long seat on sit-astride ATVs is for operator weight shifting, not for passengers. Carrying passengers is illegal and reduces control.
Route Planning and Stability: Assess routes for hazards. Walk new routes if necessary. Allow for ground conditions and load effects. Avoid steep ground and destabilising loads.
Safety Checks and Maintenance
Perform pre-ride safety checks:
- Tyre Pressures: Critical (typically 2-7 psi). Use a gauge designed for low pressures.
- Brakes and Throttle: Check for safe stopping and smooth throttle operation. Brakes require frequent cleaning and adjustment.
Safe Riding Methods
- Rider positioning is vital and must adapt to terrain. Move and balance using body weight.
- ATVs without differentials do not handle like other machines; they tend to go straight. Correct body position is needed for cornering.
- Understand transmission system effects on engine braking.
- On slopes, keep weight on the uphill side.
- Downhill: slide weight backward, use low gear and engine braking.
- Uphill: move weight forward, maintain steady speed, stand up and lean forward if necessary, keeping feet on footrests.
- Avoid sudden speed increases.
- Never put a foot down to stabilize an ATV; shift weight away from the imbalance.
- Always read the owner's manual.
Trailed Equipment and Loads
- Ensure riders know towing capacity and drawbar loading limits.
- Ability to control the ATV is reduced when carrying loads or towing.
- When selecting trailed equipment, look for: over-run brakes, swivel hitch, bead lock rims, low centre of gravity, wide wheel track, long drawbar, and secure attachment points.
- Check the weight ratio between ATV and load. For braked equipment on level ground, max load is 4x unladen ATV weight. For unbraked, max is 2x. Reduce loads on slopes or uneven ground.
- Weight transfer is important; approx. 10% of loaded trailer weight should be on the ATV's drawbar (not exceeding drawbar limit).
- Mounted equipment must be within weight limits, have a low centre of gravity, and safe controls. Add ballast if equipment is at one end.
- Secure loads on racks with ratchet straps, balanced front/rear.
- Only tow from the hitch point.
- Do not use ropes or chains to drag loads.
Using Sprayers
- Use rear-mounted spray booms or equipment reducing pesticide exposure risk.
- Do not hold a spraying lance while riding; use two hands for control.
- When buying a sprayer, look for a low centre of gravity and internal baffles.
Accessories
Use only manufacturer-supplied/approved accessories. Avoid homemade items. Added weight above the centre of gravity decreases stability.
Children
- Never carry a child as a passenger.
- Children under 13 are prohibited from using ATVs for work. Over-13s need formal training on appropriate-sized ATVs.
- Children under 16 are prohibited from using most adult-sized machines. Check manufacturer's age recommendations.
- A child's weight relative to the ATV is significant for handling. A child may be crushed by an adult-sized ATV in an overturn.
Roll-over Protective Structures (ROPS)
HSE advises against ROPS for sit-astride ATVs as they may increase injury risk by preventing operator separation or striking the operator. Lap straps/seat restraints should not be fitted. Weather cabs restrict escape and can be dangerous.
Side-by-side ATVs
These vehicles are used for similar purposes as tractors and designed for difficult terrain. They have conventional sit-in seats and steering wheel/pedal controls. The driver does not need to use weight transfer for steering or stability, but correct weight distribution is important. Loads on the cargo bed must not exceed recommendations and should be secured.
Training
Legal requirements for training are the same as for sit-astride ATVs.
ROPS and Seat Belts
Side-by-side vehicles require ROPS and lap belts/seat restraints for safety during rollovers. The compartment is usually open, but some have windscreens/doors. Driver and passengers should be protected by ROPS and wear lap belts.
For amphibious use in deep water, seat restraints and ROPS could increase risk; assess risk and do not use restraints on water.
Parking
If parking on a slope, park across it unless too steep. Accidents occur due to poor brake maintenance or application when loading/unloading.
Useful Contacts
- EASI® (European All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute): Provides safety training courses for ATV riders. Offers free/subsidised training for buyers of new/used ATVs from authorised dealers. Visit www.quadsafety.org/ for details.
- British Off Road Driving Association (BORDA): Offers training. Visit www.borda.org.uk for details.
Further Information
For health and safety information or to report inconsistencies, visit www.hse.gov.uk/. HSE guidance can be viewed and ordered online.
This guidance is issued by the Health and Safety Executive. Following it is not compulsory unless stated, but compliance is generally met by following the guidance.
This leaflet is available at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ais33.htm.
© Crown copyright. For reuse information, visit www.hse.gov.uk/copyright.htm. First published 05/99.