Maintenance & Technical

The life of the PHANTOM will depend on the care it receives throughout its life. It is the operator's responsibility to ensure that the machine is correctly operated and that the maintenance operations outlined in this manual are carried out regularly after the specified hours of operation are reached. If you are unsure of how to carry out any of the maintenance operations please do not hesitate to enlist the help of either your dealer or T.J. Frazier Ltd.

Please remember that the PHANTOM is unlike a tractor in many ways and the standard of maintenance needs to be much higher. It is designed primarily as a light weight machine and so consequently the components used in its construction have to be lightweight and are often of automotive origin. These parts will generally last just as long as heavy duty components providing they are inspected, serviced and maintained regularly. The PHANTOM is fitted with suspension and a rubber mounted engine so consequently not only are the drive line components more open to the elements but there are more moving parts which are also more subject to wear and tear. Engine hoses, cables and wiring looms are also more susceptible to wear and tear and also need regular inspection. Finally the machine is much more susceptible to general corrosion, seizure of components and electrical problems than a tractor due to the mounting position of the sprayer and fertiliser spreaders - right on top of it!

When carrying out your weekly service it is well worth spending a little time looking over (and under!) the machine and checking the condition of hoses, wear on drive shafts and for any signs of chafing or things coming loose. Also take the opportunity to go round with the oil can and lubricate anything that moves - particularly when working with fertilisers. An hour a week can save expensive down-time later on.

All nuts and bolts should be checked for tightness after the first days operation, especially axle u-bolts, wheel nuts, steering joints and track rod ends and propeller shaft bolts. Check engine and hoses for fluid leaks regularly during the first few days of operation.

Engine oil

Checking oil

Check oil level daily ensuring that the PHANTOM is stood on level ground. Use only Ford/Motocraft Super engine oil SAE 10W/30 or a high quality 15W/40 oil meeting specification API-SG/CD. The use of a universal tractor oil is generally not recommended. Do not fill above ‘Max’ mark on dipstick.

Changing oil and filter

1. Warm engine to normal operating temperature.
2. Make sure machine is stood on level ground and stop engine.
3. Remove oil filler cap from rocker cover, place suitable draining tray under engine and remove drain plug from oil pan.
4. Using a suitable strap wrench, unscrew the oil filter canister one complete turn.