PEAKHANDLEROPERATIONS MANUAL

• 3 METRE NON-BACK LEADUP RAMP

VER 1.1.2

PEAK HILL INDUSTRIES PTY LTDThe Sheep Handling Equipment Specialists

ABN 75 066 093 294 ACN 066 093 294

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CONTENTSIntroduction ............................................................................................ 4 Uses .................................................................................................. 4 Benefits ............................................................................................ 5

Dimensions............................................................................................... 6Requirements........................................................................................... 7 Assembly ................................................................................................. 7

Location ............................................................................................ 7 Leadup .............................................................................................. 7

Recommended Leadup...................................................................... 8 Ramps ............................................................................................... 9

Jump Stop ......................................................................................... 9 Working Height ............................................................................... 10 Air In ............................................................................................... 10Adjustment ........................................................................................... 11

Cradle Pressure ............................................................................... 11 Rotation Pressure ............................................................................ 11 Floor Spring Adjustment ................................................................. 12 Leadup Ramp Adjustment .............................................................. 12 Exit Gate Flipper .............................................................................. 13 Gate Position ................................................................................... 14Cradle Adjustment ................................................................................ 15 Cradle Height .................................................................................. 15

Finger Grabs ................................................................................... 16Headrest ......................................................................................... 16Leg Hooks ....................................................................................... 17Cradle Width ................................................................................... 17

Operation .............................................................................................. 18Clamping ......................................................................................... 18Rotation .......................................................................................... 18Rotation Stop .................................................................................. 19Entry Gate Valve ............................................................................. 19Entry Gate Close ............................................................................. 19Rotation With Sheep ...................................................................... 20

Tips ........................................................................................................ 20 Cleaning ................................................................................................. 21Care & Maintenance ............................................................................. 21Troubleshooting .................................................................................... 22

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Thank you for choosing a PEAKHANDLER developed and manufactured by PEAK HILL INDUSTRIES PTY LTD. We hope your investment, along with hun-dreds of other owners and operators makes your sheep work more productive and enjoyable and provides you with many years of profitable service

Please contact us if you require any further assistance with setting up or operating this machine

Happy Peakhandling,Bill Byrne

PEAKHANDLERAir Operated Sheep Crutching and Handling Machine

The PEAKHANDLER is a multi-purpose machine designed for the easy restraint and handling of sheep. Sheep can be handled and processed fast. The machine is suitable for merinos, cross breds and prime lambs. The PEAKHANDLER has been designed and built for use by graziers or contrac-tors and can be operated easily by an inexperienced personThe use of curved, tubular materials in contact areas, plus the ability to regulate the pressure applied to the body of each sheep results in minimal stress and discomfort to the animals during processing. The rotation speed and power is fully regulated by the operator

• Full Crutch• Wigging• Ringing• Drenching

• Capsule Insertion• Ear Tagging• Foot Trimming and Inspection ..And many more

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BENEFITS

EFFORTLESS Air powered rotation presents a fresh sheep and disposes of the processed sheep automatically, always leaving two sheep in the machine

NO BACK-BENDINGWith the sheep held inverted a full crutch can be performed without any back-bending at all

SUPER-FAST PROCESSWhen crutching, 2-3 sheep per minute can be processed by an experi-enced operator with a helper to keep up the supply of sheep. Sheep inter-change time can be as fast as 1-2 seconds depending on the type of sheep

ADJUSTABLEAdjustable pressure, working height, cradle and gates allow for processing a wide variety of sheep effortlessly

PRACTICAL DESIGN & LOW MAINTENANCEAll components are durable and long wearing. The air system requires no lubrication, filtering or servicing. Storage under cover is desirable

PORTABLEThe PEAKHANDLER will fit in a 6’ x 4’ box trailer or can be easily loaded into a Ute or tray back. 6" rubber wheels are attached with fold down handles for easy movement on a firm surface. Operations can be carried out in the woolshed, permanent yards, mobile yards in remote locations or can be set up on purpose built trailers for larger or contract operations

SAFE AND FRIENDLYThe risk of injuring sheep through breaking legs, bruising, crushing etc is eliminated with the use of the PEAKHANDLER. It is user-friendly and safe; eliminating bending, dragging, lifting and pulling. The risk of being kicked or injured by an unrestrained animal is also eliminated

SAVE MONEY

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PEAKHANDLER DIMENSIONS

3100 mm

1400

mm

1965 mm

1270 mm

FIG.1

FIG.2

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ASSEMBLY1. LOCATIONSelect a location to set up the Peakhandler which will facilitate an easy flow of sheep both in and out of the machine. Allow access and space for other equipment such as your leadup system, holding pens and for the opera-tors. Make sure the Peakhandler is on a firm level surface

REQUIREMENTS• A good location to operate your machine• A good leadup system• Air Compressor *• Power to run your compressor and crutching plant• Air hose from compressor to the Peakhandler. No more than 10 metres inlength for 10mm hose (hoses too long can affect speed of rotation)* Air compressor must be at least 10 cfm. No regulator on compressor orbefore the machine as this slows down air and therefore the speed of rota-tion. Maximum pressure need not exceed 90 psi

2. LEADUPA long narrow leadup race is recommended which will hold at least 10-20 sheep, filled by a small forcing pen which is then attached to a larger hold-ing pen and yards. Sheep approaching the Peakhandler in your leadup system must not be able to turn around. A narrow width single or dual system is required for best results. Curved sections may also be required to fit your system in the space available. A small exit holding pen creating a “draw” for the incoming sheep normally works well

• DO NOT leave the machine un-attended without detaching the air supply• ALWAYS disconnect the airline if you are making any adjustments to the machine• DO NOT place hands near any working mechanical parts during operation• DO NOT attempt to use the machine until you are totally familiar with how tooperate it safely• BE AWARE rotation will turn faster without sheep. Reduce pressure on regulatorRotation will not be balanced with only one sheep in the cradle. Last sheep will spinfaster• Fold handles out to position machine• Avoid heavy lifting• Always bend at the knees and keep your back straight

!CAUTION

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4-10 m

400 mm

400 mm

8-15 m

SINGLE

DUAL

FORCINGPEN

HOLDINGPEN

EXITHOLDING

PEN

EXITHOLDING

PEN

FORCINGPEN

HOLDINGPEN

- Operator Position

RECOMMENDED LEADUP SYSTEMS

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Adjustable legs (Ramp 1)

(c)

Ramp 2 sits over Ramp 1

2

1

PanelAttachments

(a)(b)

Jump Stop

FIG.4

FIG.5

4. JUMP STOPThe jump stops bolt to the rails on the ramps to prevent sheep jumping out or over the one in front. This may extend forward, over the machine to stop sheep from jumping as they enter. A bend/kink can be placed to point the jump stop bar right above the machineLower the jump stop to reduce the gap for smaller sheep

3. RAMPS(a) Extend the adjustable legs on the exit end of ramp 1 and pin to thecorrect height (normally about 3 holes down) then connect securely toyour narrow lead-in race (dual or single) using to panel attachments on theramp (long 10mm or 3/8” pins may be required)(b) Position ramp 2 in line with ramp 1. Lift and securely place the entryend of ramp 2 over the inverted channel at the exit end of ramp 1(c) With the Peakhandler lined up and correctly positioned place the exitend of ramp 2 on the two vertical hooks on the machine so that they aresecure in the slots provided. Rock the ramps to check for stability

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FIG.6

5. WORKING HEIGHTThe working height of the Peakhandler can be adjusted to suit the opera-tors and the job by removing the leg support bolts and selecting another hole. The factory setting is generally suited to crutching by a person of average height. For foot paring or inspection, a lower height setting will normally be required

6. AIR INAttach your air hose (using RYCO 200 Series slide back coupling) to the male nipple located on the exit end of the machine towards the control. If you normally use another brand of fitting you can remove the nipple supplied and replace with your preferred brand, thread size is 1/4 BSP

KEEP HANDS AND LIMBS CLEAR OF ALL WORKING PARTSMACHINE WILL BE OPERATIONAL

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+

-

+

-FIG.7

CRADLEROTATION

ADJUSTMENTCRADLE PRESSURE When your air compressor has reached its peak pressure, adjust cradle pressure regulator (right side) to about 350 kilopascals (55 psi) by pulling the knob out to unlock and rotating it. Clockwise will increase the pressure, anti-clockwise will decrease the pressure then push the knob in to lock it. The pressure you have set directly relates to the force applied to the sheep held in the cradles. This grabbing force will need adjusting according to the size and weight of the sheep

ROTATION PRESSUREThe regulator and gauge on the left of the console adjusts the pressure required to rotate the cradles. To get a feel of the action with no sheep set this to about 15 psiACTIVATION OF THE ROTATION AT HIGHER PRESSURES WITHOUT SHEEP COULD BE DANGEROUS so care needs to be taken. A gentle rotation is required during operation, too much pressure will damage the machine and cause excessive wear

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FIG.9

Reduce Tension

Increase Tension

FIG.8

FLOOR SPRING ADJUSTMENTThe spring on the far side of the machine is attached to the hinged section of the floor. This hinged floor controls the closing of the entry gate. It will need to be tensioned to suit the weight of the sheep being processed e.g. heavier sheep need more tension. Wedge the chain link into the tabbed slot to lock the positionCorrect adjustment will ensure the entry gate closes at the correct time, the gate should close behind sheep as they enter. Use the manual air release if the gate closes too early

LEADUP RAMP ADJUSTMENTThe floor tension on the ramps may need adjusting for the gates to close properly according to the weight of the sheepThe gate should close behind sheep as they enter the ramp and open as soon as their weight is removed from the floor when exiting. Larger sheep will need more tension than smaller sheepIncrease or decrease the tension on the spring using the chain, then lock the new position by inserting the closest chain link into the tabbed slot on the ramp

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FIG.12

(B)(A)

FIG.11

FIG.10

EXIT GATE FLIPPERAt the exit end of the machine a vertical flipper (A) is located at the near side of the sheep exit area. As the sheep leaves it touches and slightly rotates the flipper, this allows the exit gate to close automatically. A lever is provided at the top so you can close the gate manually from the opera-tor position (FIG.11). Operate manually a few times to see how it works. This will need to be manually activated after turning first sheep

A second larger spring loaded adjustable flipper (B) is located on the right hand side of the exit lane. Adjust the angle here by loosening the wing nut, rotate to position then re-tighten (FIG.10). This will deflect the departing sheep to brush on the gate trigger flipper (FIG.12)

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CENTER WEIGHT

ENTRYGATE

ADJUST EXIT GATE

GATE POSITIONFor body length and correct positioning, slide the gates forward or back as required. Loosen the nuts holding the gate to the frame, slide to position and re-tighten

Keep the entry gate in the same position as sheep grow, extending the exit gate forward for sheep length. When the exit gate has no more movement, the entry gate can be adjusted to create more room for larger sheep. Center the sheep with cradles and grabs so they clamp sheep either side of the center of weight

FIG.13

FIG.14

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- +

+

-FIG.15

FIG.16

CRADLE ADJUSTMENTCRADLE HEIGHTMake height adjustments for sheep size for the optimum grab position. Each cradle may be adjusted up or down to suit the height of sheep being processed. To adjust, rotate the crank knob at the top of each cradle clock-wise to raise or counterclockwise to lowerPosition so grabs are closing around the body of the sheep when clamped. The wider the cradle opening, the further it will close around the sheep. See ‘Cradle Width’ pg.17 for adjustment

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HEADRESTThe headrest should be directly underneath the neck and head of the sheep to give full support when inverted. To adjust, loosen the bolts either side and slide to position then retighten

FINGER GRABSPosition grabs so they are either side of the center of the sheep. Loosen bolts, slide the grabs along or adjust length then retighten. Grabs must be set so they don’t clash with the other side when clamped i.e. Offset the position to avoid the opposite grab or shorten the length so they clear

FIG.17

FIG.18

17

1

2 3

FIG.20

FIG.19

CRADLE WIDTHThe cradle opening width can be adjusted for varying sizes of the sheep. This must be set so the grabs close around the sheep when clamped i.e. set the width wider than the sheep so it closes further around the body1. Loosen the two bolts at the top of the cradle2. Remove the three pins holding the position3. Move the cradle out or in as desired, lining up the holes

LEG HOOKSLift the hook up to hold back and restrain the leg of the sheep. Loosening the bolt will allow the leg hook to slide along the cradle for better position-ing or be fully removedIf you are foot trimming, make sure the leg hooks are used to restrain the rear legs of the sheep to prevent kicking and injury to the operatorsRemove legs from leg hooks before rotating for next sheep

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OFFON

FIG.21

FIG.22

Repeat the above a number of times experimenting with pressures to become familiar with the operation

2. ROTATIONPull and release the rotating handle near the cradle trigger valve at the top with your left hand and the cradles will rotate and stop suddenly after 180 degrees. By increasing the pressure the rotation will be more vigorous. Approximately 60 PSI will be required for average sheep, higher for large sheep

OPERATION1. CLAMPINGWith no sheep in the machine, activate the sheep cradle clamping by moving the air valve trigger ON at the top of the rotator with your thumb, the reaction of the clamping is sudden without any sheep in the machine. Make sure you keep clear of moving parts and pinch points. ‘Valve Release Striker’ (bolt head) may later need adjusting so cradle is released when rotated

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ON

OFF

STOPROTATION

FIG.23

FIG.24

5. ENTRY GATE CLOSE TESTKeeping clear of the entry gate, simulate a sheep entering by pressing firmly on the large hinged floor section with your foot then releasing. The entry gate will quickly close

4. ENTRY GATE VALVEThe valve positioned on the frame at the entry end of the Peakhandler must be always ON to allow this gate to close automatically. The valve is used to open the gate manually should the need arise, such as a sheep getting stuck or to reverse out quickly

3. ROTATION STOPThe button located on the console is provided to disengage the air pow-ered rotation. This will be required if the operator inadvertently forgets to clamp a sheep and then activates the rotation. Pushing the button will release the air and allow rotation in the reverse direction so the sheep can be then clamped. Twisting the button clockwise until it releases will allow normal powered rotation to resume

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6. ROTATION WITH SHEEPAfter you are familiar with the operation and procedures, it is now time to try with some sheep When rotating the first sheep the machine will need some help with the rotation as there is no sheep in the other cradle to provide balanceThe air powered rotation is designed to be forgiving so that if something is out of place no damage can occurRefer back to the adjustment section again to set up the machine for the size of sheep currently operating i.e. gate position, entry gate adjustment, exit gate flipper and cradle adjustments

TIPS• When operating the machine make only one or two adjustments at atime; one particular adjustment for a certain function may affect thingsadversely somewhere else. In time you will get to know exactly what isrequired• For crutching, take time to perfect a suitable and efficient technique.Time and energy is reduced using longer blows rather than short "jabby"blows• Keep your body as up-right as possible with an equal amount of weighton each foot to avoid back strain. Try to perfect your technique aroundyour own comfort. A good setup for your plant and a hook for your hand-piece makes things easier and more efficient as well• Have your "grabbers" set up so that pressure is applied to the flank areaof the sheep, this makes it harder for them to kick and stiffens their legs.Correct head support is also crucial• When you feel confident try leaving your handpiece running while rotat-ing for a fresh sheep, this will speed up the process considerably• Try and organise other husbandry jobs to be performed at the sametime, e.g. drenching can be done in the leadup race by a second helperrather than whilst in the machine. This avoids slowing down the overallprocess, the same applies for ear tagging, mouthing etc. The helper canalso clean up the wool and keep a constant flow of sheep in your leadupsystem

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CLEANINGRemove dirt and debris by water blasting the Peakhandler with plain water or with a gentle soap. Avoid areas inside the console box of the machine. Avoid chlorine products

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Lubricate the rotation handle on both cradles, as well as the catching latch to keep the operation smooth. Oil the holes provided to free up the slides inside the rotation coversOil on the cradle height thread will keep it working easilyBushes require no lubrication, keep any debris or buildup clear of moving joints

RAMPSA little oil on gates, hinges and moving parts underneath will assist in the smooth operation of the gates. Refer to ‘Leadup Ramp Adjustment’ pg.12 to adjust the opening and closing action

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TROUBLESHOOTINGSOLUTIONPOSSIBLE CAUSEPROBLEM

Sheep not entering catching area properly.Rear of sheep extend-ing out of cradle too far

• Catching grab may be toolow• Exit gate may be set tooshort (sheep not walking infar enough)

• Raise cradle. pg.15• Slide exit gate towards exit. pg.14

Sheep too far forward in cradle

Exit gate may be set too long (sheep walking in too far)

Slide exit gate towards entry. pg.14

Entry gate not closing after sheep has entered

• Too much tension onfloor spring• Entry gate manual releasevalve not switched on

• Decrease tension on the floorspring. pg.12• Move valve to ON position. pg.19

Entry gate closing too soon preventing sheep from entering fully

Too little tension on floor spring

Increase tension on the floor springpg.12

Exit gate not closing when sheep leave the machine

Exit restrictor not set according to the width of the sheep

Rotate restrictor flap so that the sheep must trigger flipper. pg.13

Sheep slipping out of cradle when rotated

• Cradle pressure too low• Grabs set too short• Inside grabs not closingenough• Cradle too high for thesheep• Problem with aircompressor

• Turn the grab pressure up. pg.11• Lengthen grabbers. pg.16• Reduce cradle width. pg.17• Lower cradle. pg.15• Check air compressor

Cradle not releasing sheep when rotated

Bolt on cradle rotation (Valve release striker) not triggering switch

Loosen lock nuts, screw out air valve release striker (bolt head) so it has more reach, pushing valve further

Sheep not rotating by air power

Air pressure too low Raise rotation pressure. pg.11

Decrease rotation pressure. pg.11Air pressure too highSheep rotating too fast

Forgot to grab sheep and then rotated. Two sheep stuck

Engage rotation stop button. Turn rotation backwards by hand until it latches then grab sheep. Resume rotation. pg.19

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NOTES

PEAK HILLINDUSTRIES

PO Box 82, 176 Caswell Street PEAK HILL NSW 2869Phone: 02 6869 1700 Fax: 02 6869 1492 Mobile: 0428 638 922

Email: billbyrne@peakhillindustries.com.auwww.peakhillindustries.com.au