The opener assembly is heavy and contains multiple pinch, crush and entanglement hazards.
Aricks Australia recommends that opener removal is completed by competent personnel using appropriate lifting equipment and safe work practices.
We strongly recommend this is performed as a two-person task.
Park the machine on level, stable ground.
Set up the machine on firm, stable ground suitable for carrying out maintenance work. Avoid rocky, uneven, heavily rutted or chopped-up surfaces wherever possible.
Fully unfold and stabilise the machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Lower the openers until they are resting on the ground. Do not leave the openers fully retracted during the removal process.
Shut down the tractor and isolate all energy sources where applicable.
Ensure the work area is clear of bystanders and obstructions.
Wear appropriate PPE, including safety boots, gloves and eye protection.
Using the appropriate tools (commonly a driver with 24 mm socket and 24 mm spanner), remove the main pin bolt, nut and washer securing the opener assembly.
Take care during this process, as there is a potential pinch point between the spanner, surrounding components and the machine frame.
Keep hands and fingers clear of all moving parts while loosening and removing fasteners.
Once the bolt, nut and washer have been removed, use a hammer and punch to drive out the main pivot pin. Pliers may be required to grip and extract the pin if it becomes tight.
As the main pin is removed, the opener assembly may swing, shift or rotate unexpectedly.
Ensure the opener is adequately supported and controlled throughout the removal process.
Aricks Australia strongly recommends that one person supports and monitors the opener while the second person removes the pin.
Using a hammer and punch, remove the roll pin securing the upper downforce spring pin.
Once the roll pin has been removed, withdraw the spring pin.
Prior to removing the final retaining pin, ensure the opener is adequately supported by suitable lifting equipment and/or competent personnel.
At this point the opener assembly is effectively free from the toolbar and may fall if not adequately supported.
The opener assembly weighs approximately 80 kg and presents a significant crush hazard.
Where lifting equipment is used, only use appropriately rated lifting straps and lifting equipment suitable for the load being handled.
If removing the opener with the rockshaft anchor still attached, it is recommended that paint markers are used to identify the anchor location before removal. Mark both sides of the rockshaft anchor on the toolbar to clearly indicate its original position and assist with correct reinstallation.
Once supported, carefully remove and lower the opener assembly clear of the machine.
The opener contains multiple moving components and potential pinch points.
Due to its weight and moving parts, the opener can be difficult to stabilise and may swing, rotate, roll or fall unexpectedly if not controlled correctly.
Keep all personnel clear of suspended loads and potential crush zones at all times.
This document is intended as general guidance only and does not replace the manufacturer’s operating instructions, workplace safety requirements, risk assessments, or applicable legislation.
It is the responsibility of the owner, operator and/or employer to ensure the work is completed safely using suitable equipment, competent personnel and appropriate risk controls.
Aricks Australia accepts no responsibility for injury, damage or loss arising from the removal, handling, transport or installation of opener assemblies.
If you are unsure about any part of this process, please contact Aricks Australia before proceeding.