Location via proxy:   [ UP ]  
[Report a bug]   [Manage cookies]                

Jt20 Manual

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 201

JT20

Operator’s
Manual

Issue 3.0 053-2633


JT20 Operator’s Manual Overview - 1

Overview

Chapter Contents
Serial Number Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Equipment Modification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Unit Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . 5

RF Exposure Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Operator Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6


• Bulleted Lists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
• Numbered Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Overview - 2 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Serial Number Location

Serial Number Location


Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. Drilling unit serial number is located as
shown.

Item

date of manufacture

date of purchase

drilling unit serial number

trailer serial number

engine serial number


JT20 Operator’s Manual Overview - 3
Intended Use

Intended Use
The JT20 is a self-contained horizontal directional drilling unit designed to install buried cable and pipe at
distances to 400’ (122 m) depending on soil conditions and is intended for operation in ambient
temperatures from 0° to 115°F (-18° to 46°C). Use in any other way is considered contrary to the intended
use.

The JT20 can be used with Ditch Witch® drilling fluid units and Subsite® Electronics locating equipment. It
should be operated, serviced, and repaired only by persons familiar with its particular characteristics and
acquainted with the relevant safety procedures.

Equipment Modification
This equipment was designed and built in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
Modification of equipment could mean that it will no longer meet regulations and may not function properly
or in accordance with the operating instructions. Modification of equipment should only be made by
competent personnel possessing knowledge of applicable standards, regulations, equipment design
functionality/requirements and any required specialized testing.
Overview - 4 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Unit Components

Unit Components

1. Operator’s station 6. Pipeloader


2. Spindle 7. Tracks
3. Carriage 8. Vise wrenches
4. Drill frame 9. Anchoring system
5. Stabilizer
JT20 Operator’s Manual Overview - 5
FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter

FCC Statement - Internal Transmitter


U.S.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.

Canada

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est
autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

N 16819

RF Exposure Statement
In order to comply with RF exposure requirements during normal operation, this device must be held in front of the body horizontally.
The antenna must be vertical in line with the body with at least 4” (100 mm) separation distance from the body.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures”{

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Health Canada’s Safety Code. The installer of this device should ensure that RF radiation is not emitted in
http://hc-sc.qc.ca/ewh-sem/pub/radiation/radio_guide-lignes_direct-eng.php
Overview - 6 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Operator Orientation

Operator Orientation
IMPORTANT: Top view of unit is shown.

1. Front of unit
2. Right side of unit
3. Rear of unit
4. Left side of unit

About This Manual


This manual contains information for the proper use of this machine. See the beige Operation Overview
pages for basic operating procedures. Cross references such as “See page 50” will direct you to detailed
procedures.

Bulleted Lists
Bulleted lists provide helpful or important information or contain procedures that do not have to be
performed in a specific order.

Numbered Lists
Numbered lists contain illustration callouts or list steps that must be performed in order.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Foreword - 7

Foreword
This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides safety information and operation
instructions to help you use and maintain your Ditch Witch® equipment.

Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the equipment at all times for future reference.
If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.

If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch dealer. If you need assistance in locating a
dealer, visit our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address:

The Charles Machine Works, Inc.


Attn: Marketing Department
PO Box 66
Perry, OK 73077-0066
USA

The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to change without notice. The Charles
Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to improve equipment. Some product improvements may have
taken place after this manual was published. For the latest information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your
Ditch Witch dealer.

Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment.


Foreword - 8 JT20 Operator’s Manual

JT20
Operator’s Manual

Issue number 3.0/OM-4/16


Part number 053-2633

Copyright 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016


by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.

, Ditch Witch, CMW, Subsite, Jet Trac, Fluid Miser, and Power Pipe are registered
trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.

This product and its use may be covered by one or more patents at http://patents.charlesmachine.works.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Contents - 9

Contents
Overview 1
machine serial number, information about the type of work this machine is designed
to perform, basic machine components, and how to use this manual

Foreword 7
part number, revision level, and publication date of this manual, and factory contact
information

Safety 9
machine safety alerts and emergency procedures

Controls 25
machine controls, gauges, and indicators and how to use them

Operation Overview 11
an overview for completing a job with this machine: planning, setting up, installing
product, and restoring the jobsite; with cross references to detailed procedures

Prepare 59
procedures for inspecting and classifying the jobsite, planning the installation path,
and preparing the jobsite for work

Drive 79
procedures for startup, cold start, driving, and shutdown

Transport 83
procedures for lifting, hauling, and towing

Conduct a Bore 91
procedures for drilling and backreaming

Systems and Equipment 113


downhole tools and drill pipe, anchor, electric strike, DrillLok™/tracker control, and
fluid systems

Complete the Job 155


procedures for restoring the jobsite and rinsing and storing equipment

Service 159
service intervals and instructions for this machine including lubrication, replacement
of wear items, and basic maintenance
Contents - 10 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Specifications 191
machine specifications including weights, measurements, power ratings, and fluid
capacities

Support 195
the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty
consideration and training

Service Record 199


a record of major service performed on the machine
JT20 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 11

Operation Overview

Chapter Contents
Planning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Setting Up at Jobsite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Backreaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Leaving Jobsite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Storing Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Operation Overview - 12 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Planning

Planning
1. Gather information about jobsite. See page 61.
2. Inspect jobsite. See page 62.
3. Classify jobsite. See page 64.
4. Plan bore path. See page 67.
5. Check supplies and prepare equipment. See page 76.
6. Load equipment. See page 84.

Setting Up at Jobsite
1. Prepare jobsite. See page 75.
2. Unload drilling unit from trailer. See page 87.
3. Assemble drill string. See page 97.
4. Position drilling unit and drill frame. See page 93.
5. Assemble strike system. See page 117.
6. Anchor drilling unit. See page 115.
7. Connect fluid system. See page 93.
8. Calibrate tracker with beacon that will be installed in beacon housing. See tracker operator’s manual.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Operation Overview - 13
Drilling

Drilling
1. Start system. See page 94.
2. Engage DrillLok™/tracker control if desired. See page 127.
3. Drill first pipe. See page 99.
4. Record bore path. See page 106.
5. Enable automated pipeloader system. See page 99.
6. Add pipe. See page 100.
7. Drill remaining pipes in pipe box.
• Correct direction. See page 102.
• Engage cruise control. See page 147.
• Shift pipe box. See page 139.
8. Add up to a single column of drill pipe to empty box (see page 139) to complete bore.
9. Surface drill head. See page 106.
Operation Overview - 14 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Backreaming

Backreaming
1. Assemble backream string. See page 108.
2. Start drilling unit and adjust throttle.See page 80.
3. Set drilling fluid flow. Check that fluid flows through all nozzles. See page 123.
4. Remove pipe from bore. See page 109.
5. Remove up to a single column of drill pipe from full box (see page 130) to complete backream.
6. Remove pullback device. See page 111.

Backreaming Tips
• Plan backreaming job before drilling. Plan bore path as straight as possible. Check bend limits of
pullback material. Check that appropriate pullback devices are on hand.
• Keep all bends as gradual as possible.

• Drilling fluid quality is a key factor in backreaming success. Contact your Ditch Witch® dealer for
information on testing water, selecting additives, and mixing drilling fluid.
• Backreaming requires more fluid than drilling. Make sure enough fluid is used.

Leaving Jobsite
1. Remove downhole tools. See page 111.
2. Remove anchors. See page 115.
3. Rinse unit and downhole tools. See page 158.
4. Disassemble strike system and disconnect from fluid system. See page 158.
5. Stow tools. See page 158.
6. Load unit onto trailer. See page 84.

Storing Equipment
1. For cold weather storage, antifreeze drilling unit. See page 156.
2. For long-term storage, disconnect battery disconnect switch.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Safety - 15

Safety

Chapter Contents
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

California Proposition 65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
• Electric Strike Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
• If an Electric Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
• If a Gas Line is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
• If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
• If Machine Catches on Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Safety Alert Classifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Machine Safety Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22


Safety - 16 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Guidelines

Guidelines
Follow these guidelines before operating any jobsite equipment:

• Complete proper training and read operator’s manual before using equipment.
• Mark proposed path with white paint and have underground utilities located before working. In the US
or Canada, call 811 (US) or 888-258-0808 (US and Canada). Also contact any local utilities that do not
participate in the One-Call service. In countries that do not have a One-Call service, contact all local
utility companies to have underground utilities located.
• Classify jobsite based on its hazards and use correct tools and machinery, safety equipment, and work
methods for jobsite.
• Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away.
• Wear personal protective equipment.
• Review jobsite hazards, safety and emergency procedures, and individual responsibilities with all
personnel before work begins. Safety videos are available from your Ditch Witch® dealer or at
www.ditchwitch.com/safe.
• Fully inspect equipment before operating. Repair or replace any worn or damaged parts. Replace
missing or damaged safety shields and safety signs. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for assistance.
• Use equipment carefully. Stop operation and investigate anything that does not look or feel right.
• Do not operate unit where flammable gas may be present.
• Only operate equipment in well-ventilated areas.
• Contact your Ditch Witch dealer if you have any question about operation, maintenance, or equipment
use.
• Complete the equipment checklist located at www.ditchwitch.com/safe.

California Proposition 65 Warning


This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.

• battery posts, terminals and related accessories


• engine exhaust
• ethylene glycol
JT20 Operator’s Manual Safety - 17
Emergency Procedures

Emergency Procedures

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use


correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment.

Before operating any equipment, review emergency procedures and check that all safety precautions have
been taken.

EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN - Turn ignition switch to stop position or push remote engine stop button (if
equipped).

Electric Strike Description

Electric shock. Contacting electric lines will cause death


or serious injury. Know location of lines and stay away.

When working near electric cables, remember the following:

• Electricity follows all paths to ground, not just path of least resistance.
• Pipes, hoses, and cables will conduct electricity back to all equipment.
• Low voltage current can injure or kill. Many work-related electrocutions result from contact with less
than 440 volts.

Most electric strikes are not noticeable, but indications of a strike include:

• power outage
• smoke
• explosion
• popping noises
• arcing electricity

If any of these occur, or if strike alarm sounds or flashes, assume an electric strike has occurred.
Safety - 18 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures

If an Electric Line is Damaged


If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are on drilling unit or bonded equipment, DO
NOT MOVE. Remain on drilling machine and take the following actions. The order and degree of action will
depend on the situation.

• Warn people nearby that an electric strike has occurred.


• Have someone contact electric company.
• Reverse drilling direction and try to break contact. Do not touch drill pipe with hands or hand-held
tools.
• Press electric strike system self test button.
• If alarm sounds again, stay where you are and wait for electric company to shut off power.
• If alarm does not sound and there is no other indication of a strike, wait at least one full minute
before moving away from equipment. Utility might use automatic reclosers which will restart
current flow. If alarm sounds again while waiting, stay where you are until electric company shuts
off power.
• If alarm does not sound but all lights in strike indicator are on, assume strike is continuing and stay
where you are until electric company shuts off power.
• Do not resume drilling or allow anyone into area until given permission by electric company.

If you suspect an electric line has been damaged and you are off drilling unit or bonded equipment, DO
NOT TOUCH ANY EQUIPMENT connected to drilling unit. Take the following actions. The order and
degree of action will depend on the situation.

• Stay where you are unless you are wearing electric insulating boots. If you leave, do not return to area
or allow anyone into area until given permission by electric company.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Safety - 19
Emergency Procedures

If a Gas Line is Damaged

Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause


burns. No smoking, no flame, no spark. 275-419 (2P)

Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.


Follow directions carefully.

If you suspect a gas line has been damaged, take the following actions. The orders and degree of action
will depend on the situation.

• Immediately shut off engine(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
• Remove any ignition source(s), if this can be done safely and quickly.
• Warn others that a gas line has been cut and that they should leave the area.
• Leave jobsite as quickly as possibSSle.
• Immediately call your local emergency phone number and utility company.
• If jobsite is along street, stop traffic from driving near jobsite.
• Do not return to jobsite until given permission by emergency personnel and utility company.
Safety - 20 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Emergency Procedures

If a Fiber Optic Cable is Damaged


Do not look into cut ends of fiber optic or unidentified cable. Vision damage can occur. Contact utility
company.

If Machine Catches on Fire


Perform emergency shutdown procedure and then take the following actions. The order and degree of
action will depend on the situation.

• Immediately move battery disconnect switch (if equipped and accessible) to disconnect position.
• If fire is small and fire extinguisher is available, attempt to extinguish fire.
• If fire cannot be extinguished, leave area as quickly as possible and contact emergency personnel.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Safety - 21
Safety Alert Classifications

Safety Alert Classifications


These classifications and the icons defined on the following pages work together to alert you to situations
which could be harmful to you, jobsite bystanders or your equipment. When you see these words and
icons in the book or on the machine, carefully read and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT
STAKE.

Watch for the three safety alert levels: DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION. Learn what each level
means.

indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This
signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations.

indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

Watch for two other words: NOTICE and IMPORTANT.

NOTICE indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related (e.g., messages relating to
property damage).

IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job easier in some way.
Safety - 22 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Machine Safety Alerts

Machine Safety Alerts

Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury.


Stay away. 270-1506, 275-197
1

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe


wrenches on drill string. 273-278
2

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious


injury. Use correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain
3
proper safety equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P)
JT20 Operator’s Manual Safety - 23
Machine Safety Alerts

Moving parts could cut off hand or foot. Stay away.


275-184, 273-546
4

Read operator’s manual. Follow safety rules and


know how to use all controls. Your safety is at stake. 273-475
5

Do not park machine on slope unless chocked or


6 blocked. 275-383

Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause


severe injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. 270-6035
7

Tiedown location. See Transport chapter for more information.

Electric shock will cause death or serious injury.


Stay away. 274-049
9

Lift point. See Transport chapter for more information. 274-442

10

Crushing weight could cause death or serious


injury. Stay away. 275-326, 701-326
11
Safety - 24 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Machine Safety Alerts

Fire or explosion possible. Do not use starter fluid.


273-459 (2P), 274-206 (2P), 700-206 (2P)
12

Hot parts may cause burns. Do not touch until cool


or wear gloves. 275-355 (2-P), 273-423 (2-P)
13
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 25

Controls

Chapter Contents
Set-Up Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Tethered Ground Drive Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Left Control Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31


• Engine Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
• Pipeloading controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
• Drilling/Operation controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Right Control Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Anchoring System Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Seat/Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Miscellaneous Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
ESID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Controls - 26 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Set-Up Console

Set-Up Console

9
j38om039w.eps

1. DrillLok™/tracker control key 6. Engine shutdown override switch


2. Cold start wait indicator 7. Right stabilizer control
3. Ignition switch 8. Frame tilt control
4. Left track switch 9. Left stabilizer control
5. Right track switch
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 27
Set-Up Console

Item Description Notes

1. DrillLok™/tracker To allow tracker operator to Remove key and keep in tracker


control key stop thrust and rotation, move operator’s possession.
key to enable position (up).

To override DrillLok/tracker
control mode, move key to
disable position (right).

2. Cold start wait indicator Lights when intake air pre-


heater is operating.

Wait until light goes off before


starting engine.

3. Ignition switch To start engine, insert key and Restart engine with ignition switch
turn clockwise. after it has been turned off with
remote engine stop switch.
To stop engine, turn key
counterclockwise. If wrenches are engaged when
engine is stopped with ignition switch,
wrenches will release and then
engage when unit is started.

4. Left track switch To move forward, press top. Use track switches only if tethered
control is inoperable.
To move backward, press
bottom.

c00ic147h.eps
Controls - 28 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Set-Up Console

Item Description Notes

5. Right track switch To move forward, press top. Use track switches only if tethered
control is inoperable.
To move backward, press
bottom.

c00ic148h.eps

6. Engine shutdown If engine shutdown indicator This control allows a temporary


override switch comes on, press to delay override of engine shutdown.
engine shutdown for 30
seconds. NOTICE: After 30 seconds, engine
will again shut down unless fault
condition has been cleared on
diagnostic gauge. See “Electronic
Controlled Engine Overview” on
page 149.
c00ic178h.eps

7. Right stabilizer control To raise, pull up. Lower left and right stabilizers to the
ground to stabilize unit and then
To lower, push down. adjust for side-to-side stability. After
unit is level, adjust for entry angle.

8. Frame tilt control To raise front end of drill


frame, pull up.

To lower front end of drill


frame, push down.

9. Left stabilizer control To raise, pull up. Lower left and right stabilizers to the
ground to stabilize unit and then
To lower, push down. adjust for side-to-side stability. After
unit is level, adjust for entry angle.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 29
Tethered Ground Drive Controller

Tethered Ground Drive Controller

1
5

j10om016h.eps

1. Speed/direction control 4. Operator presence switch


2. Power mode switch 5. Throttle switch
3. Remote engine stop

Item Description Notes

1. Speed/direction control To move forward, push. Operator presence switch must be


pressed and operator seat must be
To move backward, pull. empty for control to work.

To steer, move left or right.

c00ic145h.eps
Controls - 30 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Tethered Ground Drive Controller

Item Description Notes

2. Power mode switch To select normal driving mode


(high), push.

To select loading and


unloading mode (low), pull.

To disable ground drive,


return to center.
c00ic146h.eps

3. Remote engine stop To stop engine, press red To restart engine, turn ignition switch
button. off and then back on.

4. Operator presence To operate ground drive with


switch tethered controller, press.

To disable controller, release.

5. Throttle switch To increase engine speed, Throttle switch at operator’s station


push. must be in center position for this
switch to control speed.
To decrease engine speed,
pull.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 31
Left Control Console

Left Control Console


Engine Display

0 :00 :00 AM/PM


R F

j38om048w.eps

Item Description Notes

Tachometer Displays engine speed.

Fuel gauge Displays amount of fuel See “Approved Fuel” on page 164.
remaining in tank.

c00ic003w.eps
Controls - 32 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

Voltmeter display Shows system voltage. Normal voltage is 13-14V with engine
running.

c00ic008w.eps

Hour meter Displays number of hours


engine has been running.

0.0 H
c00ic020w.eps

Engine temperature Lights when engine coolant Normal coolant temperature is 160-
indicator temperature is too high. 230°F (71-110°C).

c00ic004w.eps

Engine oil pressure gauge Lights when engine oil


pressure is too low.

Day/Night mode key Press from main screen Use soft key directly below icon to
(gauges) to toggle between toggle between day and night mode.
day and night modes.

c00ic010w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 33
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

Sound indicator Indicates if notification alert Use soft key directly below icon to
sound is off or on. toggle sound on or off.

c00ic034w.eps

Main menu icon Use soft key directly below


icon to access main menu.

c00ic031w.eps

Hydraulic fluid temperature Lights when hydraulic fluid


temperature is too high.

c00ic037t.eps

Hydraulic fluid filter Lights when hydraulic filter is


indicator restricted.
Controls - 34 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

Drill / Drive / Carve mode Shows if unit is set to drill


indicator mode, drive mode, or carve
mode.

c00ic033w.eps

Front wrench status If front wrench is closed, light


indicator should be on.

If front wrench is open, light


should be off.

Pipe lift status indicator If pipe lifter is lifted fully and


lift pressure switch is
engaged, light should be on.

If pipe lift pressure switch is


not engaged, light should be
off.

Shuttle home status If shuttle is retracted, light


indicator should be on.

If shuttle is not completely


retracted, light should be off.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 35
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

Carriage home status If carriage is in the home


indicator zone at either end of drill
frame, light should be on.

If carriage is between the


home zones at either end of
drill frame, light should be off.

Rear stop status indicator If carriage is at very back of


drill frame, light should be on.

If carriage is away from very


back of drill frame, light
should be off.

Pipe box status indicator If active pipe column contains Check pipe box status lights to see
pipe, light should be on. when active column of pipe box is
empty. See “Shift Pipe Box” on
If active pipe column does not page 139.
contain pipe, light should be
off. One light on and one light off indicates
R F a jammed pipe. See “Correct
Misaligned or Jammed Pipe” on
c00ic036w.eps
page 140.

Most engine display functions are self-explanatory. For more information about functions, see the
manufacturer’s instructions at www.fwmurphy.com.
Controls - 36 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Engine Display Main Menu

IMPORTANT: Soft key commands change with each menu screen and are displayed next to the key.

Item Description Notes

System settings key Press to select system System settings menu displays
settings menu. information about the system.
Diagnostic information is only
available to dealer technicians.

User settings key Press to select user settings User settings menu allows user to
menu. change the language and unit
settings, and to set the time and date.

Main screen key Press to return to main


screen (gauges).

Engine diagnostics key Press to select engine For dealer technician use only.
diagnostics menu.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 37
Left Control Console

Pipeloading Controls

3
2 4
1
5

10

9
6
7
8
j38om001w.eps

1. Add pipe/manual/remove pipe switch 6. Pipe lift switch


2. Set/Resume switch 7. Pipe shuttle switch
3. Pipe box switch 8. Two-speed rotation switch
4. Resume switch 9. Pipe gripper switch
5. Wrench control 10. Pipe lubricator switch
Controls - 38 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

1. Add pipe/manual/ To select “add pipe” See “Add Pipe” on page 100.
remove pipe switch automated pipeloader
function, press top.

To use manual pipeloader


controls, move to center.

To select “remove pipe” See “Remove Pipe” on page 109.


automated pipeloader
function, press bottom.

2. Set/Resume switch To resume operation or See “Cruise Control” on page 147.


increase operation levels,
RESUME / press top.

To set operating conditions or


reduce operation levels,
press bottom.
SET /
c00ic113h.eps

3. Pipe box switch To shift pipe box toward See “Shift Pipe Box” on page 139.
operator, press left side.

To shift pipe box away from


operator, press right side.

4. Resume switch To resume operation, press. See “Add Pipe” on page 100.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 39
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

5. Wrench control To clamp front wrench, move


to right.

To unclamp front wrench,


move to left.

To clamp and rotate rear


(rotating) wrench, push.

To unclamp rear (rotating)


wrench, pull.

6. Pipe lift switch To raise, press top.

To lower, press bottom.

7. Pipe shuttle switch To move toward pipe box,


press top.

To move toward spindle,


press bottom.

8. Two-speed rotation To rotate at low speed, high


switch torque, press right.

To rotate at high speed, low


torque, press left.
Controls - 40 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

9. Pipe gripper switch To close, press top.

To open, press bottom.

10. Pipe lubricator switch To apply joint compound to


threads, press forward.

c00ic023w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 41
Left Control Console

Drilling/Operation Controls
3 4
2 5
6
1

11

9
10
j38om002 w.eps

1. Engine throttle switch 7. Remote engine start switch


2. Drilling fluid pressure gauge 8. EDT diagnostic port
3. Thrust pressure gauge 9. Console/Work light switch
4. Rotation pressure gauge 10. Fluid pump indicator
5. AutoCarve switch 11. Fluid flow control
6. Carve window control
Controls - 42 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

1. Engine throttle switch To increase speed, press top. Autothrottle mode slows the engine to
Return switch to center when low throttle after 15 seconds of
desired speed is reached. inactivity involving thrust, rotation,
drilling fluid flow, or pipeloader
To enable autothrottle mode, functions. To return to high speed,
press top and leave switch in activate thrust, rotation, drilling fluid,
top position. or an add/remove cycle.

To decrease speed, press


bottom.

To disable autothrottle mode,


return switch to center after
desired speed is reached.

2. Drilling fluid pressure Displays drilling fluid pressure


gauge supplied by drilling fluid
pump.

c00ic157h.eps

3. Thrust pressure gauge Displays hydraulic fluid


pressure to thrust motor
during thrust and pullback.

Estimates thrust and pullback


force on lines outside gauge.

4. Rotation pressure Displays hydraulic fluid


gauge pressure to rotation motor
when spindle is turned
clockwise.

Estimates rotational torque on


lines outside gauge.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 43
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

5. AutoCarve switch To enable autocarve, press Two-speed thrust is not allowed in


top. AutoCarve mode.

To deactivate autocarve,
press bottom.

c00ic608h.eps

6. Carve window control To increase carve window See “Use AutoCarve” on page 104.
range, turn clockwise.

To decrease carve window


range, turn counterclockwise.

c00ic609h.eps

7. Remote engine start To start engine from This button works only when key in
switch operator’s station, push set-up console is on, operator is in
button. seat, and battery disconnect switch is
closed.
Release when engine starts.

c00ic152h.eps

8. EDT Diagnostic report For use only by qualified technicians.

9. Console/Work light To turn on, press top.


switch
To turn off, press bottom.

c00ic151h.eps

10. Fluid pump indicator Lights when fluid pump is on.


Controls - 44 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Left Control Console

Item Description Notes

11. Fluid flow control To increase flow, turn High speed delivers more flow at
clockwise. lower pressure.

To decrease flow, turn Low speed delivers less flow at higher


counterclockwise. pressure.

To stop flow, turn all the way


counterclockwise.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 45
Unit Status Indicators

Unit Status Indicators

j38om003w.eps

1. Diagnostic light (red) 2. Control cycle light (green)

Item Description Notes

1. Diagnostic light (red) Alerts operator that a diagnostic


code has been triggered.

If a non-essential diagnostic code


is recorded, light flashes on and
off for 10 seconds.
See “Diagnostic Codes” on
If an essential diagnostic code is page 149.
recorded, light flashes on for three
seconds and off for half a second.

2. Control cycle light Lights when machine automation


(green) is controlling a cycle.

If system is waiting for an action


before starting cycle, light flashes
on and off.

If control cycle is interrupted, light


should flash twice as fast.
Controls - 46 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Right Control Console

Right Control Console


3 4

j38om004w.eps

1. Drilling fluid pump switch 4. Drilling fluid quick fill switch


2. Dual speed carriage control 5. Remote engine stop switch
3. Carriage control

Item Description Notes

1. Drilling fluid pump To turn on, press once.


switch
To turn off, press once.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 47
Right Control Console

Item Description Notes

2. Dual speed carriage To engage high carriage Use during bore or pullback when no
control travel speed, push and hold. pipe is in spindle to save time.

To return to normal carriage NOTICE: Overriding assisted makeup


speed, release. mode puts pipe threads in jeopardy. If
frequent overriding is necessary, see
To override assisted makeup your Ditch Witch® dealer for
mode, push and hold. pipeloader adjustment.

3. Carriage control To move carriage forward,


push.

To move carriage backward,


pull.

To rotate spindle
counterclockwise (breakout),
move right.

To rotate spindle clockwise


(makeup), move left.

4. Drilling fluid quick fill To override fluid control


switch setting for full pump flow,
press and hold.

To return fluid flow to flow


control setting, release.

5. Remote engine stop To stop engine, press. If this switch is used to stop drilling
switch unit, be sure to turn ignition switch off
To restart engine, press if machine will be left unattended for
remote engine start switch on long periods of time. Battery
console, or turn ignition off discharge can occur.
and then back to start.
If wrenches are engaged when
remote stop is pressed, wrenches will
remain engaged but could gradually
open.
Controls - 48 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Anchoring System Console

Anchoring System Console

j10om015h.eps

1. Left rotation control 3. Right rotation control


2. Left thrust control 4. Right thrust control

Item Description Notes

1. Left rotation control To drive anchor, push down. Stand on platform when operating
anchor controls.
To remove anchor, pull up.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 49
Anchoring System Console

Item Description Notes

2. Left thrust control To move anchor down, push Stand on platform when operating
down. anchor controls.

To move anchor up, pull up.

3. Right rotation control To drive anchor, push down. Stand on platform when operating
anchor controls.
To remove anchor, pull up.

4. Right thrust control To move anchor down, push Stand on platform when operating
down. anchor controls.

To move anchor up, pull up.


Controls - 50 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Seat/Armrest

Seat/Armrest

2
j38om005w.eps

1. Armrest adjustment 3. Seat slide control


2. Seat recline control

Item Description Notes

1. Armrest adjustment To adjust armrest position,


unscrew knob, move armrest
to new position, and screw
knob in.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 51
Seat/Armrest

Item Description Notes

2. Seat recline control To recline or raise seatback,


lift.

To lock seatback in position,


release.

3. Seat slide control To slide forward or backward,


move left.

To lock seat in position, move


right.
Controls - 52 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Battery

Battery

j38om006w.eps

1. Battery disconnect switch

Item Description Notes

1. Battery disconnect To connect, move clockwise.


switch
To disconnect, move
counterclockwise.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 53
Engine Compartment Controls

Engine Compartment Controls


1 2 4 5

j38om007w.eps

1. High/auto fan speed switch 4. Machine controller diagnostic port


2. Throttle switch 5. J1939 CAN diagnostic port, engine
3. Air filter restriction indicator

Item Description Notes

1. High/auto fan speed For high speed, press top. If switch is on high speed, fan will run
switch at full speed all the time.
For automatic speed, press
bottom. If switch is on auto speed, fan speed
will vary in relation to engine
temperature.
Controls - 54 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Engine Compartment Controls

Item Description Notes

2. Throttle switch To increase engine speed, Use this switch only if throttle switch
press top. on console does not work.

To decrease engine speed,


press bottom.

To further increase or
decrease speed, press
c00ic243h.eps
additional times (or hold until
desired speed is reached).

3. Air intake restriction Shows air intake restriction. Replace the air filter elements when
indicator the indicator reaches the red zone.

See “Change Air Filter” on page 184.

4. Diagnostic port, For use only by qualified technicians.


controller

5. J1939 CAN diagnostic For use only by qualified technicians.


port, engine
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 55
Miscellaneous Controls

Miscellaneous Controls

Item Description Notes

Shuttle Lockout Switch To prevent shuttle operation, Use when loading and unloading
press top. extra drill pipe with auxiliary loaders.

To allow shuttle operation,


press bottom.
Controls - 56 JT20 Operator’s Manual
ESID

ESID
2 3

1
4

6
7
8
j07om042h.eps

1. Alphanumeric display 5. Current problem indicator


2. Strike indicator 6. OK indicator
3. Alarm interrupt button 7. Electrical power supply indicator
4. Voltage problem indicator 8. Self test button

Item Description Notes

1. Alphanumeric display Displays amount of current


and voltage being detected
as a percentage of strike
condition.

The line with the “V” shows


voltage reading and the line
with the “A” shows current
reading.

2. Strike indicator Red lights come on as values If system is activated, assume a strike
in display increase. has occurred.

Light in triangle represents NOTICE: The ESID does not indicate


strike warning condition and proximity to electric lines. System will
will trigger alarm(s) and activate only when voltage and/or
strobe(s). amperage detected at the drilling unit
are above threshold minimum limits.
IMPORTANT: System can go
from one or two lights to an
electric strike immediately.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Controls - 57
ESID

Item Description Notes

3. Alarm interrupt button To turn off strike audio alarm


at drilling unit, press.

4. Voltage problem Blinking red light indicates a See “Troubleshoot Strike System” on
indicator voltage sensor problem. page 119.

5. Current problem Blinking red light indicates a See “Troubleshoot Strike System” on
indicator current sensor problem. page 119.

6. OK indicator Green light means system


self test detected no
problems.

Strike system is ready to


operate.
Controls - 58 JT20 Operator’s Manual
ESID

Item Description Notes

7. Electrical power supply Green light means control


indicator box has sufficient electrical
power for operation.

Strike system is ready to


operate if OK indicator is also
on.

8. Self test button To start manual self test, Checks all systems and circuits.
press.

To reset system after a strike NOTICE: See “If an Electric Line is


has been detected, press. Damaged” on page 16.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 59

Prepare

Chapter Contents
Gather Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
• Review Job Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
• Notify One-Call Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
• Examine Pullback Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
• Arrange for Traffic Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
• Plan for Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Inspect Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
• Identify Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
• Select Start and End Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Classify Jobsite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
• Select a Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
• Apply Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Plan Bore Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67


• Recommended Bend Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
• Entry Pitch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
• Minimum Setback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
• Minimum Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
• Bore Path Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Prepare - 60 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Prepare Jobsite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
• Mark Bore Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
• Prepare Entry Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment . . . . . . . 76


• Check Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
• Prepare Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
• Assemble Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 61
Gather Information

Gather Information
A successful job begins before the bore. The first step in planning is reviewing information already
available about the job and jobsite.

Review Job Plan


Review blueprints or other plans and make sure you have taken bore enlargement during backreaming
and pullback into account. Check for information about existing or planned structures, elevations, or
proposed work that may be taking place at the same time.

Notify One-Call Services


Mark proposed path with white paint and have underground utilities located before working.

• In the US or Canada, call 811 (US) or 888-258-0808 (US and Canada). Also contact any local utilities
that do not participate in the One-Call service.
• In countries that do not have a One-Call service, contact all local utility companies to have
underground utilities located.

Examine Pullback Material


Ask for a sample of the material you will be pulling back. Check its weight and stiffness. Contact the
manufacturer for bend radius information. Check that you have appropriate pullback devices.

Arrange for Traffic Control


If working near a road or other traffic area, contact local authorities about safety procedures and
regulations.

Plan for Emergency Services


Have the telephone numbers for local emergency and medical facilities on hand. Check that you will have
access to a telephone.
Prepare - 62 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Inspect Site

Inspect Site
Identify Hazards
Inspect jobsite before transporting equipment. Check for the following:

• overall grade or slope


• changes in elevation such as hills or open trenches
• obstacles such as buildings, railroad crossings, or streams
• signs of utilities on jobsite and perimeter, such as:
– “buried utility” notices
– utility facilities without overhead lines
– gas or water meters
– junction boxes
– drop boxes
– light poles
– manhole covers
– sunken ground
• traffic
• access
• soil type and condition
• water supply
• sources of locator interference (rebar, railroad tracks, etc.)

Have an experienced locating equipment operator sweep area within 20’ (6 m) to each side of bore path to
verify previously marked line and cable locations. Mark location of all buried utilities and obstructions.

Take soil samples from several locations along bore path to determine best bit and backreamer
combinations.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 63
Inspect Site

Select Start and End Points


Select one end to use as a starting point. Consider the following when selecting a starting point:

Slope

Fluid system should be parked on a level site. Consider how slope will affect drilling unit setup, bending
pipe, and fluid flow out of hole.

Traffic

Vehicle and pedestrian traffic must be a safe distance from drilling equipment. Allow at least 10’ (3 m)
buffer zone around equipment.

Space

Check that starting and ending points allow enough space for gradual pipe bending. See “Minimum
Setback” on page 72.

Check that there is enough space to work and to set up electric strike system.

Comfort

Consider shade, wind, fumes, and other site features.

Drill downhill when possible so fluid will flow away from drilling unit.
Prepare - 64 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Classify Jobsite

Classify Jobsite

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use


correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P)

To help avoid injury:

• Wear personal protective equipment including hard hat, safety eye wear, and hearing protection.
• Do not wear jewelry or loose clothing.
• Notify One-Call and companies which do not subscribe to One-Call.
• Comply with all utility notification regulations before digging or drilling.
• Verify location of previously marked underground hazards.
• Mark jobsite clearly and keep spectators away.

Remember, jobsite is classified by hazards in place -- not by line being installed.

Select a Classification
Jobsites are classified according to underground hazards present.

If working... then classify jobsite as...

within 10’ (3 m) of a buried electric line electric

within 10’ (3 m) of a natural gas line natural gas

in concrete, sand, or granite which is capable of producing crystalline silica (quartz) dust
crystalline silica (quartz) dust

within 10’ (3 m) of any other hazard other

NOTICE: If you have any doubt about jobsite classification, or if jobsite might contain unmarked
hazards, take steps outlined previously to identify hazards and classify jobsite before working.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 65
Classify Jobsite

Apply Precautions
Once classified, precautions appropriate for jobsite must be taken. Follow U.S. Department of Labor
regulations on excavating and trenching (Part 1926, Subpart P) and other similar regulations.

Electric Jobsite Precautions

Electric shock will cause death or serious injury. Stay


away. 274-049

In addition to using a directional drilling system with an electric strike system, use one or both of these
methods.

• Expose line by careful hand digging or soft excavation. Use beacon to track bore path. If utility must be
crossed, tracker operator must watch the drill head during drilling and backreaming. The tracker
operator must have communication with the drill operator or DrillLok® system must be enabled with the
DrillLok key in the tracker operator’s possession.
• Have service shut down while work is in progress. Have electric company test lines before returning
them to service.

Natural Gas Jobsite Precautions

Fire or explosion possible. Fumes could ignite and cause


burns. No smoking, no flame, no spark.

In addition to using positioning equipment upwind from gas lines, use one or both of these methods.

• Expose lines by careful hand digging or soft excavation. Use beacon to track bore path.
• Have gas shut off while work is in progress. Have gas company test lines before returning them to
service.
Prepare - 66 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Classify Jobsite

Crystalline Silica (Quartz) Dust Precautions

Breathing crystalline silica dust may cause lung disease.


Cutting, drilling, or working materials such as concrete, sand, or rock
containing quartz may result in exposure to silica dust. Use dust control
methods or appropriate breathing protection when exposed to silica dust.

To help avoid injury:

• Use water spray or other means to control dust.


• Refer to U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines to
learn more about appropriate breathing protection and permissible exposure limits.

Crystalline silica dust is a naturally occurring substance found in soil, sand, concrete, granite, and quartz.
Breathing silica dust particles while cutting, drilling, or working materials may cause lung disease or
cancer.

Other Jobsite Precautions

You may need to use different methods to safely avoid other underground hazards. Talk with those
knowledgeable about hazards present at each site to determine which precautions should be taken or if
job should be attempted.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 67
Plan Bore Path

Plan Bore Path


Plan the bore path, from entry to end, before drilling begins. The Ditch Witch® Trac Management System
Plus is available for planning your bore path. This special software can be run in the field using a laptop
computer equipped with Windows® 95 or higher operating system. See your Ditch Witch dealer for details.

If not using Trac Management System Plus, mark the bore path on the ground with spray paint or flags, or
record it on paper for operator reference.

For complicated bores, consult an engineer. Have the jobsite surveyed and bore path calculated. Be sure
the engineer knows minimum entry pitch, bend limits of drill pipe, bend and tension limits of pullback
material, pipe lengths, and location of all underground utilities.

For less complicated bores, plan the bore based on four measurements:

• recommended bend limit


• entry pitch
• minimum setback
• minimum depth

IMPORTANT: See the following pages for more information about these measurements. If not using
Trac Management System Plus, see “Bore Path Calculator” on page 73 and use these measurements to
help plan your bore.
Prepare - 68 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Plan Bore Path

Recommended Bend Limits

Ditch Witch® drill pipes are designed to bend slightly during operation. Slight bending allows for steering
and correcting direction. Bending beyond recommended limits will cause damage that might not be visible.
This damage adds up and will later lead to sudden drill pipe failure.

IMPORTANT: Consider recommended bend limits during any bend, not just during bore entry.

Pipe Pitch

Ditch Witch drill pipe is tested to bend at a maximum


percent pitch.

Make sure pitch (A) changes no more than 9.4% over


the full length of each Power Pipe® HD pipe, no more
than 9.2% for Ditch Witch Forged HD pipe and no
more than 9.3% for Forged pipe.

NOTICE: Bending drill pipe more sharply than recommended will damage pipe and cause failure over
time. Changes in pitch must be equally distributed over the length of a pipe. Maximum changes in
pitch within 1-2’ (300-600 mm) of pipe create sharp bends that will damage pipe.

Monitor the pitch of each pipe with the remote display on the operator’s console.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 69
Plan Bore Path

Bend Radius

JT20 Power Pipe® HD drill pipes have a tested


minimum bend radius of 107’ (32.6 m). This means that
a 90-degree bend in the bore path:

• has a radius (A) of 107’ (32.6 m)


• requires approximately 168’ (51.2 m) of drill pipe (B).

JT20 Ditch Witch® Forged HD drill pipes have a tested


minimum bend radius of 109’ (33.2 m). This means that
a 90-degree bend in the bore path:

• has a radius (A) of 109’ (33.2 m)


• requires approximately 171’ (52.1 m) of drill pipe (B).

JT20 Forged drill pipes have a tested minimum bend radius of 108’ (32.9 m). This means that a 90-degree
bend in the bore path:

• has a radius (A) of 108’ (32.9 m)


• requires approximately 170’ (51.8 m) of drill pipe (B).

NOTICE: Bending drill pipe more sharply than recommended will damage the pipe and cause failure
over time.

• If bend radius is reduced, drill pipe life is reduced.


• If bend radius is increased, drill pipe life is increased.

IMPORTANT: Use the charts on the next page to keep bends within safe limits.
Prepare - 70 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Plan Bore Path

Pipe-By-Pipe Bend Limits

Power Pipe® HD

Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A) Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A)
(C) (C)
1 10 ft 0 in (3.0 m) 0 ft 5.6 in (0.1 m) 10 86 ft 1 in (26.2 m) 43 ft 5 in (13.2 m)
2 19 ft 11 in (6.1 m) 1 ft 10 in (0.6 m) 11 91 ft 8 in (27.9 m) 51 ft 9 in (15.8 m)
3 29 ft 7 in (9 m) 4 ft 2 in (1.3 m) 12 96 ft 5 in (29.4 m) 60 ft 6 in (18.4 m)
4 39 ft 1 in (11.9 m) 7 ft 5 in (2.2 m) 13 100 ft 4 in (30.6 m) 69 ft 9 in (21.3 m)
5 48 ft 2 in (14.7 m) 11 ft 6 in (3.5 m) 14 103 ft 4 in (31.5 m) 79 ft 3 in (24.2 m)
6 56 ft 11 in (16 m) 16 ft 5 in (5 m) 15 105 ft 6 in (32.1 m) 89 ft 0 in (27.1 m)
7 65 ft 1 in (19.8 m) 22 ft 1 in (6.7 m) 16 106 ft 8 in (32.5 m) 98 ft 11 in (30.2 m)
8 72 ft 9 in (22.2 m) 28 ft 7 in (8.7 m) 17 107 ft 0 in (32.6 m) 107 ft 0 in (32.6 m)
9 79 ft 9 in (24.3 m) 35 ft 8 in (10.9 m)
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 71
Plan Bore Path

Ditch Witch® Forged HD

Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A) Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A)
(C) (C)
1 10 ft 0 in (3.0 m) 0 ft 5.6 in (0.1 m) 10 86 ft 7 in (26.4 m) 42 ft 9 in (13 m)
2 19 ft 11 in (6.1 m) 1 ft 10 in (0.6 m) 11 92 ft 3 in (28.1 m) 50 ft 11 in (15.5 m)
3 29 ft 8 in (9 m) 4 ft 1 in (1.2 m) 12 97 ft 2 in (29.6 m) 59 ft 8 in (18.2 m)
4 39 ft 1 in (11.9 m) 7 ft 3 in (2.2 m) 13 101 ft 4 in (30.9 m) 68 ft 9 in (20.9 m)
5 48 ft 2 in (14.7 m) 11 ft 3 in (3.4 m) 14 104 ft 7 in (31.9 m) 78 ft 3 in (23.8 m)
6 57 ft 0 in (17.4 m) 16 ft 1 in (4.9 m) 15 106 ft 11 in (32.6 m) 87 ft 11 in (26.8 m)
7 65 ft 3 in (19.9 m) 21 ft 9 in (6.6 m) 16 108 ft 5 in (33 m) 97 ft 10 in (29.8 m)
8 73 ft 0 in (22.3 m) 28 ft 1 in (8.6 m) 17 109 ft 0 in (33.2 m) 107 ft 9 in (32.6 m)
9 80 ft 1 in (24.4 m) 35 ft 1 in (10.7 m) 18 109 ft 0 in (33.2 m) 109 ft 0 in (33.2 m)

Forged

Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A) Pipe Forward (B) Deflection (A)
(C) (C)
1 10 ft 0 in (3.0 m) 0 ft 5.6 in (0.1 m) 10 86 ft 4 in (26.3 m) 43 ft 1 in (13.1 m)
2 19 ft 11 in (6.1 m) 1 ft 10 in (0.6 m) 11 91 ft 11 in (28 m) 51 ft 4 in (15.6 m)
3 29 ft 7 in (9 m) 4 ft 2 in (1.3 m) 12 96 ft 10 in (29.5 m) 60 ft 1 in (18.3 m)
4 39 ft 1 in (11.9 m) 7 ft 4 in (2.2 m) 13 100 ft 10 in (30.7 m) 69 ft 3 in (21.1 m)
5 48 ft 3 in (14.7 m) 11 ft 4 in (3.5 m) 14 104 ft 0 in (31.7 m) 78 ft 9 in (24 m)
6 57 ft 0 in (117.4 m) 16 ft 3 in (4.9 m) 15 106 ft 3 in (32.4 m) 88 ft 6 in (27 m)
7 65 ft 2 in (19.9 m) 21 ft 11 in (6.7 m) 16 107 ft 7 in (32.8 m) 98 ft 4 in (30 m)
8 72 ft 11 in (22.2 m) 28 ft 4 in (8.7 m) 17 108 ft 0 in (32.9 m) 108 ft 0 in (32.9 m)
9 79 ft 11 in (24.4 m) 35 ft 5 in (10.8 m)
Prepare - 72 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Plan Bore Path

Entry Pitch
Entry pitch is the slope of the drill frame compared with the slope of the ground. Determine entry pitch one
of two ways:

1. With Pitch Beacon


• Lay pitch beacon on the ground and read pitch.
• Lay pitch beacon on drill frame and read pitch.
• Subtract ground pitch from drilling unit pitch.
2. With Measurements
• Measure from the ground to front end of drill
frame (H1).
• Measure from the ground to back end of frame
(H2).
• Subtract (H1) from (H2). Record this number.
• Measure the distance between front and back
points (C).

• Divide (H2-H1) by (C), then multiply by 100. This


is your pitch.

IMPORTANT: A shallow entry pitch (A1) allows you to


reach horizontal sooner and with less bending.
Increasing entry pitch (A2) makes bore path longer
and deeper.

Minimum Setback
Setback is the distance from the entry point to where
pipe becomes horizontal (B1).

NOTICE: If setback is too small (B2), you will exceed


bend limits and damage the pipe.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 73
Plan Bore Path

Minimum Depth
Because you must bend pipe gradually, entry pitch and
bend limits determine how deep the pipe will be when it
becomes horizontal. This is called the minimum depth.

• To reduce minimum depth (D1), reduce entry


pitch. This also decreases setback.
• To increase minimum depth (D2), increase entry
pitch. This also increases setback.

Bore Path Calculator


Entry pitch, setback, and minimum depth work together with bend limits to determine the bore path. To find
the setback (B) and entry pitch (A) that will take you to the desired minimum depth (D), use the chart
below.

IMPORTANT: Numbers in table based on drill pipe minimum bend radius, beacon housing, EZ-
Connect, connector, transition sub, and 1/3 of first drill pipe (L, totaling 8’ 8” [2.6 m]) in the ground before
steering.

Power Pipe® HD

Minimum depth (D) Entry pitch (A) Setback (B) Depth to begin steering (S)

3 ft 3 in (1 m) -18% 27 ft 6 in (8.4 m) 1 ft 7 in (0.48 m)

3 ft 10 in (1.2 m) -20% 29 ft 6 in (9 m) 1 ft 9 in (0.53 m)

4 ft 5 in (1.3 m) -22% 31 ft 6 in (9.6 m) 1 ft 11 in (0.58 m)

5 ft 0 in (1.5 m) -24% 33 ft 5 in (10.2 m) 2 ft 1 in (0.64 m)

5 ft 8 in (1.7 m) -26% 35 ft 4 in (10.8 m) 2 ft 3 in (0.69 m)


Prepare - 74 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Plan Bore Path

Ditch Witch® Forged HD

Minimum depth (D) Entry pitch (A) Setback (B) Depth to begin steering (S)

3 ft 4 in (1 m) -18% 27 ft 11 in (8.5 m) 1 ft 7 in (0.48 m)

3 ft 10 in (1.2 m) -20% 29 ft 11 in (9.1 m) 1 ft 9 in (0.53 m)

4 ft 5 in (1.3 m) -22% 31 ft 11 in (9.7 m) 1 ft 11 in (0.58 m)

5 ft 1 in (1.5 m) -24% 33 ft 11 in (10.3 m) 2 ft 1 in (0.64 m)

5 ft 9 in (1.8 m) -26% 35 ft 10 in (10.9 m) 2 ft 3 in (0.69 m)

Forged

Minimum depth (D) Entry pitch (A) Setback (B) Depth to begin steering (S)

3 ft 3 in (1 m) -18% 27 ft 8 in (8.4 m) 1 ft 7 in (0.48 m)

3 ft 10 in (1.2 m) -20% 29 ft 8 in (9 m) 1 ft 9 in (0.53 m)

4 ft 5 in (1.3 m) -22% 31 ft 8 in (9.7 m) 1 ft 11 in (0.58 m)

5 ft 0 in (1.5 m) -24% 33 ft 8 in (10.3 m) 2 ft 1 in (0.64 m)

5 ft 8 in (1.7 m) -26% 35 ft 7 in (10.8 m) 2 ft 3 in (0.69 m)


JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 75
Prepare Jobsite

Prepare Jobsite

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use


correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P)

To help avoid injury,

• If jobsite classification is in question or if the possibility of unmarked electric utilities exists, classify
jobsite as electric.
• Expose lines by hand before digging. Cutting high voltage cable can cause electrocution.
• Remove all vegetation near operator’s station. Contact with trees, shrubs, or weeds during electrical
strike could result in electrocution.

Mark Bore Path


Mark your planned bore path and all located utility lines with flags or paint.

Prepare Entry Point


For bore to be successful, first pipe must be straight as
it enters the ground.

To help ensure that the first pipe does not bend, dig a
small starting hole so that the first pipe is drilled into a
vertical surface.

To prevent bending or straining pipe, position drilling


unit for straight entry.
Prepare - 76 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment

Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment


Check Supplies
• tracking system with spare batteries
• beacons with new and spare batteries
• two-way radios with new and spare batteries
• quick wrench (see page 133)
• transition sub
• anchoring equipment and accessories
• bits, screens, nozzles (see page 128)
• adapters, pipe, beacon housings
• marking flags or paint
• water and additional hoses
• fuel
• drilling fluid additives (see page 123)
• spare fuses
• keys
• backreamers, swivels, pulling devices (see page 130)
• wash down hose and spray gun
• duct tape
• spray lubricant
• tool joint compound (see page 163)
• electrically insulating boots and gloves
• personal protective equipment, such as hard hat and safety glasses
• notepad and pencil
JT20 Operator’s Manual Prepare - 77
Check Supplies and Prepare Equipment

Prepare Equipment
Fluid Levels

• fuel
• hydraulic fluid
• engine coolant
• battery charge
• engine oil

Condition and Function

• filters (air, oil, hydraulic)


• fluid pump
• couplers
• tires and tracks
• pumps and motors
• drilling fluid mixer
• hoses and valves
• water tanks

Assemble Accessories
Fire Extinguisher

If required, mount a fire extinguisher near the power unit but away from possible points of ignition. The fire
extinguisher should always be classified for both oil and electric fires. It should meet legal and regulatory
requirements.
Prepare - 78 JT20 Operator’s Manual
JT20 Operator’s Manual Drive - 79

Drive

Chapter Contents
Start Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Steer Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Shut Down Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81


Drive - 80 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Start Unit

Start Unit
1. Insert key.
2. Turn key clockwise. See page 23 for more information.
3. Run engine at low throttle for 5 minutes.

Steer Unit
To steer drilling unit while using tethered ground drive controller, follow instructions
for type of steering desired.

To steer while moving forward, push forward and then move to left or right.
Drilling unit will gradually turn to left or right.

To steer while moving backward, pull back and then move to left or right. Drilling
unit will gradually turn to left or right. c00ic145h.eps

For tight steering in low speed, move control to center position and then to left or right edge. Gradually
move control forward or backward along the edge toward a corner. Tracks will counter-rotate and turn
drilling unit in a tight circle.

Tips to Reduce Track Wear


Rubber tracks are best suited at soil-based job sites with minimal rock and debris. Sharp objects such as
gravel, steel shards, and broken concrete will damage rubber tracks and undercarriage components.
Excessive operation on concrete or asphalt will shorten track life. When storing your machine, keep tracks
away from rain and direct sunlight.

Wash tracks daily to remove foreign objects and abrasive soil from sprockets and idler rollers. Drive slowly
and make wide turns when possible. Regularly check undercarriage components (sprocket, rollers, idler)
for wear and damage. Maintain proper track tension. (See “Check Track Tension and Condition” on
page 183.)

To prevent premature wear, avoid the following:

• Spinning tracks under heavy load.


• Turning on sharp objects such as stones, stumps and debris.
• Quick turns or “spin” turns on asphalt or concrete.
• Driving over curbs, ledges, and sharp objects.
• Driving with sidewall edges pressed against hard walls, curbs or other objects.
• Driving on slopes.
• Operating on corrosive materials such as salt or fertilizer. Wash immediately.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Drive - 81
Shut Down Unit

Shut Down Unit


1. Stop track movement.
2. Lower drill frame and stabilizers to the ground.

IMPORTANT: If frame and stabilizers cannot be lowered, use cylinder locks or other suitable
material to block the tracks and frame. Remove cylinder locks or chocks before driving unit.

3. Run engine at low throttle for 3 minutes to cool.


4. Turn key to the stop position.
5. Remove key.
Drive - 82 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Shut Down Unit
JT20 Operator’s Manual Transport - 83

Transport

Chapter Contents
Lift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Haul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
• Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
• Tie Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
• Unload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Retrieve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Transport - 84 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Lift

Lift
This machine is not configured for lifting. If the machine must be lifted, load machine into a container or
onto a platform appropriate for lifting. See “Specifications” on page 191 for weight of machine.

Haul
Load

Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Stay


away. 275-326

To help avoid injury:

• Attach trailer to vehicle before loading or unloading.


• Verify that trailer wheels are blocked.
• Load and unload trailer on level ground.
• Load trailer correctly to prevent trailer swaying. Place 10-15% of total vehicle weight (equipment
plus trailer) on tongue.

With Tiedown Kit

1. Start drilling unit engine.


2. Using tethered ground drive controller, pull power mode switch into low position.
3. Move drilling unit to rear of trailer and align with ramps.
4. Slowly drive unit onto trailer until track reaches chock.
5. Lower drill frame to drill frame rest.
6. Back unit until front of drill frame is seated in rest.
7. Lower stabilizers to trailer floor.
8. Stop engine.
9. Attach tiedowns at rear of unit where indicated on page 85.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Transport - 85
Haul

Without Tiedown Kit

1. Start drilling unit engine.


2. Using tethered ground drive controller, pull power mode switch into low position.
3. Move drilling unit to rear of trailer and align with ramps.
4. Slowly drive unit onto trailer until track reaches chock.
5. Lower stabilizers to trailer floor.
6. Lower drill frame to trailer floor.
7. Stop engine when unit is safely positioned on trailer bed for proper tongue weight.
8. Attach tiedowns to drilling unit where indicated on page 85.

Tie Down
Points

Tiedown points are identified by tiedown decals. Securing to trailer at other


points is unsafe and can damage machinery.

Procedure

Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all controls.


Your safety is at stake. 273-475

To help avoid injury: Ensure that any downhole tool or pipe in tool joint vises is attached to spindle or
removed before transport. Wrenches can open after engine shutdown.
Transport - 86 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Haul
With Tiedown Kit

Loop tiedowns around rear tiedown points. Make sure tiedowns are tight before transporting.

Without Tiedown Kit

Loop tiedowns around unit at tiedown points. Make sure tiedowns are tight before transporting.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Transport - 87
Haul

Unload

Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Stay


away. 275-326

To help avoid injury:

• Attach trailer to vehicle before loading or unloading.


• Load and unload trailer on level ground.
• Ensure trailer wheels are blocked.

With Tiedown Kit

1. Lower ramps.
2. Remove tiedowns.
3. Start drilling unit engine.
4. Using tethered ground drive controller, pull power mode switch into low position.
5. Raise stabilizers.
6. Move drilling unit forward until track meets chock.
7. Raise drill frame.
8. Slowly back unit down trailer or ramps.

Without Tiedown Kit

1. Lower ramps.
2. Remove tiedowns.
3. Start drilling unit engine.
4. Using tethered ground drive controller, pull power mode switch into low position.
5. Raise stabilizers.
6. Raise drill frame.
7. Slowly back unit down trailer or ramps.
Transport - 88 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Retrieve

Retrieve
Under normal conditions, drilling unit should not be towed. If unit breaks down and retrieval is necessary:

• Attach chains to indicated tow points facing towing vehicle.


• Open bypass valves.
• Open selector valves.
• Tow for short distances at less than 1 mph (1.6 km/h).
• Use maximum towing force of 1.5 times unit weight.

To open bypass valves for towing, back out hex


plugs (shown) three full revolutions.

NOTICE: Unit has no brakes when bypass


valves are opened for towing.

To close bypass valves and return to normal


operation, return hex plugs to their original position
(shown).

j38om041w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Transport - 89
Retrieve
To open selector valves for towing, loosen jam nut and tighten valve screw (shown) until it is fully
threaded.

To close selector valves and return to normal operation, unthread valve screw and tighten jam nut. To
attach chains to tow points, determine which points are facing towing vehicle.

To attach chains to tow points, determine which points are facing towing vehicle.

If back tow points are facing towing vehicle, loop chains through each tow point and bring them together to
a central pull point.

If front tow points are facing towing vehicle, loop chain through tow point and pull straight forward.
Transport - 90 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Retrieve
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 91

Conduct a Bore

Chapter Contents
Position Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Connect Fluid System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Start System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Prime Drilling Fluid Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Operate Carriage Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Clamp Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Assemble Drill String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97


• Prepare Beacon Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
• Attach Beacon Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
• Connect Drill Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Drill First Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99


Enable Automated Pipeloader System . . . . . . . . 99

Add Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Correct Direction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102


• Basic Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
• Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
• Drill Head Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
Conduct a Bore - 92 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Use AutoCarve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Record Bore Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Surface Drill Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Assemble Backream String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Remove Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Remove Pullback Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111


JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 93
Position Equipment

Position Equipment
1. Review bore plan and select drilling unit position and fluid unit position.
2. Move equipment into selected positions.

Connect Fluid System

Electric shock will cause death or serious injury. Stay


away. 274-049

To help avoid injury: Do not connect drilling unit to a public or private (business or home) water supply.
If an electrical strike occurs while drilling unit is connected to a fluid system, the fluid system will also
become electrified.

1. Connect fluid hose from mixing system to drilling


fluid pump. A 1.5” (38 mm) or larger, non-collapsible
hose is required.
2. Install y-strainer between mixing unit and drilling
fluid pump. Position strainer so that drilling fluid
flows in the direction of the arrow. In most cases,
positioning strainer at outlet of mixing unit gives
best results.

IMPORTANT:

• Clean y-strainer regularly.


• Prime the remote drilling fluid pump after
switching to a new tank. See page 94.
Conduct a Bore - 94 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Start System

Start System
1. Start drilling unit and remote fluid unit. Allow both engines to warm up.

IMPORTANT: Ensure that mixture of drilling fluid matches drilling conditions. See “Drilling Fluid”
on page 123.

2. Enable DrillLok™/tracker control mode if desired. See “DrillLok™/Tracker Control” on page 127.
3. Press top of drilling unit throttle switch until engine is at full throttle. If you do not want to use
autothrottle mode, return switch to center position.

Prime Drilling Fluid Pump

Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause


severe injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. 270-6035

To help avoid injury: Always prime the drilling fluid pump. Failure to prime the drilling fluid pump will
cause flow fluctuations, which will make it difficult to control the washwand.

Prime drilling fluid pump each time tank is changed. To prime the pump:

1. Fill drilling fluid hose and connect hose to unit.


2. Operate mixing/transfer pump at full speed for 1 - 3 minutes to discharge air from system.
3. Return mixing/transfer pump to normal operating speed and continue the bore.
4. If drilling fluid pressure surges are observed, repeat step 2.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 95
Operate Carriage Control

Operate Carriage Control


Drilling
During normal drilling operation, the thrust/rotation joystick controls both
operations and allows any combination of the two based on the position of
the joystick:

• Push joystick toward 1A for forward thrust with clockwise rotation.

NOTICE: Counterclockwise rotation can unthread pipe in the ground.

• Push joystick toward 2A for forward thrust with counterclockwise rotation.


• Pull joystick toward 2B for reverse thrust, with counterclockwise rotation.
• Pull joystick toward 1B reverse thrust, with clockwise rotation.

Coordinated Make-up
During pipe change operations when front wrench is closed and carriage is
on front or rear home, the thrust/rotation joystick controls the speed and
direction of rotation. Thrust speed and direction are set by the machine
controller to follow the speed and direction of the rotation. If needed, thrust
speed can be increased or decreased slightly by moving the control toward or
against the direction of thrust travel. If joystick remains in neutral for rotation,
then thrust is controlled normally.

Push joystick toward 1A for clockwise rotation (machine controlled makeup).

Push joystick toward 2B for counterclockwise rotation (machine controlled breakout).

IMPORTANT:

• If the thrust/rotation joystick is moved straight forward or backward so there is no rotation, thrust is
controlled by the operator.
• While rotating the operator can adjust thrust speed slightly with joystick.
Conduct a Bore - 96 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Clamp Pipe

Clamp Pipe

Turning shaft can kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away.

To help avoid injury: Only clamp pipe at reinforced end. Clamping


anywhere else on the pipe will weaken the pipe. Pipe can later break,
even when operating under normal loads.

NOTICE: Wrenches can open after engine shutdown. Ensure that any downhole tool or pipe in tool joint
vises is attached to spindle or removed before transport.

Clamp on pipe when joint is centered between


wrenches (1 and 2). Always clamp on the larger
diameter areas on either side of the tool joint
face.

NOTICE: Clamping pipes on top of female


threads can damage threads. Only clamp
female pipe ends behind the threads.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 97
Assemble Drill String

Assemble Drill String


1. bit
2. beacon housing
3. adapter
4. collar
5. transition sub
6. JT20 drill pipe

Prepare Beacon Housing

1. Select nozzles and bit.

IMPORTANT: A variety of nozzles and bits are available to suit your particular job conditions.
See your Ditch Witch® dealer for more information.

2. Insert nozzle into beacon housing.


3. Attach bit to beacon housing.
4. Install beacon, following beacon instructions for:
• battery replacement
• beacon positioning.
5. Install beacon housing lid.
6. Follow beacon instructions to check beacon operation.
7. Follow tracker instructions to calibrate beacon.

Attach Transition Sub

1. Remove blocks from pipe guides.


2. Pull transition sub into front wrench.
3. Close wrench.
4. Lube joints.
5. Use machine torque to tighten joint fully.
Conduct a Bore - 98 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Assemble Drill String

Attach Beacon Housing

Use machine torque to attach beacon housing.

1. Pull beacon housing into front wrench.


2. Close wrench.
3. Use machine torque to tighten joint fully.

Connect Drill Pipe


1. Start drilling unit engine.
2. Align drill pipe in front wrench.
3. Clamp tool joint in front wrench. See “Clamp Pipe” on page 96.
4. Disconnect from pipe:
• Rotate spindle counterclockwise until threads on pipe segments are disengaged from each other.
Carriage will move backward as pipe rotates counterclockwise.
• Stop rotation and move carriage backward until it stops on the rear stop switch.
5. Load pipe:
• Make sure pipe box is positioned correctly.
• Open grippers or make sure they are open.
• Grippers open as pipe is lowered.
• Close grippers around pipe.
• Lubricate pipe threads at front wrench.
• Move pipe to spindle.
• Raise pipe lifters.
6. Connect pipe:
• Move carriage forward until spindle meets back end of pipe joint. Rotate spindle clockwise until pipe
begins to spin. Relax grippers slightly.
• Move carriage forward until pipe joints meet at front wrench.
• Rotate spindle clockwise. Carriage will move forward as pipe threads tighten.
• Rotate clockwise until spindle stops turning, and joint is fully tightened.
• Open grippers.
• Retract shuttles fully.
• Open front wrench.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 99
Drill First Pipe

Drill First Pipe

Turning shaft can kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away.

To help avoid injury:

• Keep everyone at least 10’ (3 m) away from turning drill string.


• Push rod or pipe slowly. Forcing can bend string. Do not use bent rod or pipe.

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use


correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P)

1. Turn on drilling fluid.


2. Set flow control to desired flow/pressure. See “Start System” on page 94.
3. Turn drill bit to starting position.
4. Slowly move carriage forward. Drill in downhole tools and 1/3 of first pipe before steering.
5. Monitor gauges.

Enable Automated Pipeloader System


Add Pipe Remove Pipe

1. Open front wrench, retract shuttles, and set 1. Open front wrench, retract shuttles, and set
engine at full throttle for add pipe function to engine at full throttle for remove pipe function
work. to work.
2. Press top of add pipe/manual/remove pipe 2. Press bottom of add pipe/manual/remove pipe
switch. Green control cycle light will come on. switch. Green control cycle light will come on.
3. Grippers will open, pipe will be lowered, and 3. Grippers will open, pipe will be lowered and
then green control cycle light will flash. lifted off shuttles, and then green control cycle
light will flash.

IMPORTANT: If you leave the seat during an add or remove pipe cycle, switch to manual control and
finish pipe cycle. Then switch back to add pipe or remove pipe. If you leave the seat between add or
remove pipe cycles, re-enabling system is not needed.
Conduct a Bore - 100 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Add Pipe

Add Pipe
1. Press top of drilling unit throttle switch until engine is at full throttle.
2. Enable automated pipeloader system (automated pipeloader control only). See “Enable Automated
Pipeloader System” on page 99.
3. Break joint at saver sub.

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Clamp pipe joint. • Clamp pipe joint.


• Locate drill head. • Locate drill head.
• Engage front wrench until pipe is clamped • Engage front wrench until pipe is clamped
and pressure develops. and pressure develops.
• Slowly move carriage back until • Slowly move carriage back until
movement stops. movement stops.
• Slowly rotate spindle counterclockwise. • Slowly rotate spindle counterclockwise.
Carriage will move back as threads Carriage will move back as threads
separate. separate.
• After threads are fully separated, stop • After threads are fully separated, stop
rotation and move carriage to back of rotation and move carriage to back of
frame. frame.
• While carriage is moving, green control
cycle light will come on. Grippers will grip
and then green control cycle light will
flash.

4. Load pipe:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Make sure shuttle stop is properly • Make sure shuttle stop is properly
positioned on pipeloader and lift arms are positioned on pipeloader.
completely lowered.
• When carriage is at back of drill frame,
• Close grippers. press RESUME. Green control cycle
indicator lights, pipe is moved to spindle,
• Lube pipe threads.
front threads are lubed, pipe in box is
• Move pipe to spindle. lifted, and then green control cycle light
will flash.
• Raise pipe lifters.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 101
Add Pipe
5. Connect pipe to saver sub:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

IMPORTANT: Always rotate clockwise unless IMPORTANT: Always rotate clockwise unless
breaking pipe joint. Rotating counterclockwise breaking pipe joint. Rotating counterclockwise
will separate joints. will separate joints.

• Move carriage forward until saver sub • Move carriage forward until saver sub
meets pipe. meets pipe.
• Rotate spindle until threads begin to • Rotate spindle until threads begin to
tighten. Carriage will continue to advance. tighten. Carriage will continue to advance.
• Relax grippers. • Press RESUME. Green control cycle light
will come on. Grippers will relax and then
green control cycle light will flash

6. Connect new pipe to drill string:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Stop rotating and slowly move pipe • Stop rotating and slowly move pipe
forward until it contacts pipe in front forward until it contacts pipe in front
wrench. wrench.
• To fully torque joint, slowly rotate pipe until • Press RESUME. Green control cycle light
spindle stops turning. will come on, grippers will open, shuttles
will retract, pipe lifters will lower, and then
• Open wrench.
green control cycle light will flash.
• Open grippers fully.
• While previous sequence is progressing,
• Retract shuttles against shuttle stop. thread pipes together until spindle stops
turning, then fully torque both joints by
• Lower pipe lifters.
moving rotation control briefly to left limit.

7. Press and hold quick fill fluid pump switch until pipe fills and fluid pressure begins to rise.
8. Rotate spindle.
9. Slowly move carriage forward. Adjust rotation speed control according to bit size and soil conditions.
10. Engage and set cruise control as desired. See “Cruise Control” on page 147.
11. Monitor gauges.
12. Locate drill head with tracker at least every half-length of pipe.
Conduct a Bore - 102 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Correct Direction

Correct Direction
Correcting direction is a skill operators gain with experience and knowledge of equipment and soil
conditions. These instructions cover only basic procedures. For information about specific equipment or
jobsites, contact your Ditch Witch® dealer.

To track progress and make corrections, one crew member locates the drill head and sends instructions to
the operator. Corrections are made by tracking the drill head, comparing current position to bore plan, and
steering drill head as needed.

Basic Rules
• Steering ability depends on soil condition; bit, drill head, and nozzle used; roll of drill head; and
distance pushed without outer rotation.
• All corrections should be made as gradually as possible. See “Recommended Bend Limits” on
page 68.
• Over correcting will cause “snaking.” This can damage pipe and will make drilling and pullback more
difficult. Begin to straighten out of each correction as early as possible.
• Do not push an entire piece of drill pipe into ground without rotation. This can exceed bend radius and
cause pipe failure.

Procedure
1. Locate drill head. Take readings available with your beacon and locating equipment such as:
• depth
• pitch
• left/right information
• temperature
• beacon roll
2. Compare position to bore plan. Determine direction drilling should go.
3. Position drill head.
4. Drill in pipe.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 103
Correct Direction

Drill Head Position


The drill head position is determined by reading beacon
roll. Roll is displayed as a clock face position.

1. Read beacon roll.


2. Slowly rotate pipe until locator displays desired
beacon roll.

To change direction:

1. Rotate pipe to clock position you intend to travel.


2. Push pipe into ground.

To move forward without changing direction:

1. Rotate pipe.
2. Push pipe into ground.
Conduct a Bore - 104 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Use AutoCarve

Use AutoCarve
AutoCarve helps the operator change direction when thrust stalls in difficult soil conditions. AutoCarve
rotates the bit clockwise and counterclockwise to grind away soil, clearing a path to improve steering
through tough formations.

Movement Description

alternating clockwise and Enables the downhole tool to carve tough soil formations. Rotation speed
counterclockwise rotation can be adjusted during autocarving.

NOTICE: To reduce the chance of unthreading pipe sections downhole,


rotation pressure is limited during counterclockwise rotation; however, the
operator should monitor carve operation and adjust thrust and rotation to
prevent unthreading.

carve window The range of alternating rotation.

thrust In autocarve mode, initial thrust speed is very slow or fully stopped. Adjust
speed anytime during carving.

pullback Thrust and rotation operate normally when joystick is pulled rearward.
High-speed pullback is not available in AutoCarve mode.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 105
Use AutoCarve

Operation

IMPORTANT:

• 2-speed thrust is not allowed in AutoCarve mode.


• AutoCarve mode is disabled while front wrench is closed.
• Adding or removing pipe does not affect AutoCarve position.

1. Position downhole tool for carving. Rotate the toolhead to the desired position.
2. Turn on AutoCarve mode. Press top of AutoCarve switch.
3. Begin carving. Push joystick fully forward then release to neutral to start alternating rotation. Adjust
thrust and rotation speed as needed during carving.
4. Adjust thrust speed. Press and hold the Resume switch until carriage begins to move forward, then
release switch. Press Resume repeatedly to increase thrust speed to desired setting. To reduce thrust
speed, press Set switch.
5. Set carve window. Use the Carve Window Potentiometer to set the desired range of travel. Adjust as
needed while carving.
6. Adjust rotation speed. Move joystick fully left of neutral. Press the Set/Resume switch to decrease/
increase rotation speed. Adjust as needed while carving.

IMPORTANT: For finer adjustment, press the multi-use button while adjusting thrust or
rotation. Be aware, however, this also activates the reaming function and will change steering
direction unless the tool is stopped at the original position before releasing multi-use button.

7. Pause carving. Pull joystick away from neutral.


8. Resume carving. Push joystick fully forward then release to neutral to start alternating rotation.
9. Ream a newly carved section. After carving a few inches, press and hold the 2-Speed (multi-use)
button and move the joystick fully left for maximum rotation. When tool rotates freely, reduce rotation
speed and stop at desired carve position. Release 2-Speed button and resume carving.

IMPORTANT: If full rotation seems restricted and insufficient to ream the hole, move carriage
back slightly until full rotation is possible, then move carriage forward while rotating.

10. Exit carve mode. Press bottom of AutoCarve switch. Carriage movement and rotation will stop.
Continue normal drilling.

Note: For quicker setup during a long bore, AutoCarve thrust and rotation settings are retained until
the unit is shut down.
Conduct a Bore - 106 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Record Bore Path

Record Bore Path


Locate drill head every half-length of pipe. As the job is completed, record the actual data for each drill
pipe. List pitch and depth of each joint and a brief description of the procedure. In addition, draw a simple
sketch of the site and record depth and rough location of pullback.

The Trac Management System Plus is also available for plotting and tracking your bore path. It utilizes the
Subsite® 750 Tracker, 750 Display, a tracking beacon, and special software. The display can store jobs in
its memory or the system can be run in the field using a laptop computer equipped with the Windows® 95
or higher operating system. See your Ditch Witch® dealer for details.

Surface Drill Head

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe wrenches


on drill string. 273-278

Turning shaft will kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away.

To help avoid injury:

• Tracker operator and drill operator should maintain two-way communication.


• Keep everyone clear of the exposed drill string.
• No one should enter pit until clear communication is given by the drill operator that the drill unit is
shut down. If using DrillLok™/tracker control (See “DrillLok™/Tracker Control” on page 127.), do not
enter pit until DrillLok/tracker control is turned off and green light on drill unit is lit.
• Drill operator should be instructed to discontinue drill string rotation as soon as drill bit exits the
bore. Use thrust only to extend drill string beyond exit hole.

1. Guide drill head to target pit or up through surface. Make all bends gradual.
2. If using DrillLok/tracker control mode, tracker operator turns off tracker to disable drilling unit thrust/
pullback and rotation hydraulics. Tracker operator waits for green light to enter pit and change tools.
If not using DrillLok/tracker control mode, tracker operator signals to drilling unit operator to stop
engine before changing downhole tools.
3. Turn fluid flow control to off position as soon as drill head emerges.
4. Clean drill head especially around threads.
5. Disconnect EZ-Connect joint or use quick wrench to remove drill head. Keep threads clean.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 107
Backream

Backream
Sometimes it is necessary to enlarge the pilot hole to accommodate larger product. As a general rule, the
final hole should be 1.5 times larger than the diameter of the product being installed. The number of
passes needed depends on soil conditions. Do not try to increase hole size too much in one pass. Several
passes using successively larger reamers will save wear on machine.

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe wrenches


on drill string. 273-278

Jobsite hazards could cause death or serious injury. Use


correct equipment and work methods. Use and maintain proper safety
equipment. 274-050; 274-724 (2P)

To help avoid injury, continue to use strike system during backreaming.

Turning shaft will kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away.

To help avoid injury,

• Maintain two-way communication with tracker operator.


• Begin backream only when tracker operator has communicated that everyone is clear of the
exposed backream string or has disabled thrust and rotation hydraulics using DrillLok™/tracker
control.
• Do not allow anyone to stand to the side of the exposed drill string. Drill string and backreamer can
move sideways suddenly if rotated while away from the exit hole.
Conduct a Bore - 108 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Backream

Assemble Backream String

1. Select backreaming devices. See “Backreamers” on page 136.


2. Determine fluid rate requirements and install appropriate nozzles to provide sufficient flow. See
“Backream Fluid Requirements” on page 137 and “Nozzles” on page 134.
3. Attach backreamer to beacon housing if tracking backream.
4. Install beacon, following beacon instructions for:
• battery replacement
• beacon positioning
5. Install beacon housing lid. See page 135.
6. Follow beacon instructions to check beacon operation.
7. Follow tracker instructions to calibrate beacon.
8. Use quick wrenches to attach transition sub to drill pipe string.
9. Use quick wrenches to attach backreamer/beacon housing assembly to transition sub.
10. Attach additional pullback devices or product to end of backreamer/beacon housing assembly.

Begin Backream

1. After backream assembly is attached to pipe, tracker operator should:


• leave pit and stand away from the exposed drill string.
• if using DrillLok™/tracker control, turn on tracker to enable drilling unit thrust/pullback and rotation.
• if not using DrillLok/tracker control, communicate to drill operator that backream string is clear.
2. Turn on drill fluid and pressurize drill pipe. Verify that jets are open.
3. Without rotating, slowly pull back until reamer contacts bore hole opening. Do not lodge reamer in
hole.
4. Begin slow rotation and pullback.
5. Increase drilling fluid flow and rotation as the backream string enters the ground.
6. If tracking backream, tracker operator may continue tracking when the backream string is no longer
visible.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 109
Remove Pipe

Remove Pipe
1. Enable automated pipeloader system (automated pipeloader control only).
2. Stop carriage when pipes are aligned in wrenches.
3. Clamp pipe in front wrench.
4. Break front joint.
• Turn rear wrench counterclockwise to break joint.
• Disengage rear wrench and rotate wrench clockwise.
5. Grip pipe:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Open grippers. • Press RESUME. Green control cycle light


will come on, shuttles will extend, grippers
• Lift pipe off shuttles.
will grip fully and relax open, pipe lifters
• Extend shuttles to spindle position. will lower, and then green control cycle
light will flash.
• Close grippers.
• Lower lifters.

6. Separate front joint.


• Slowly rotate spindle counterclockwise and move carriage back to separate pipe.
• Continue to move carriage back until pipe is properly positioned in rear wrench.
7. Break rear joint:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Engage rear wrench. • Engage rear wrench.


• Slowly rotate spindle counterclockwise • Slowly rotate spindle counterclockwise
and move carriage back until joint is and move carriage back until joint is
loosened. Do not fully separate joint. loosened. Do not fully separate joint.
• Disengage rear wrench. • Disengage rear wrench.
• Move carriage back until front end of pipe • Move carriage back until front end of pipe
is aligned with front end of pipe box or is aligned with front end of pipe box or
alignment pin is even with tab on frame. alignment pin is even with tab on frame.
• Close grippers. • Press RESUME. Green control cycle light
will come on, grippers will close and then
• Rotate spindle counterclockwise until
green control cycle light will flash.
saver sub is separated from pipe.
• Rotate spindle counterclockwise and
• Move carriage to back of frame.
move carriage back until saver sub is
separated from pipe.
• Move carriage to back of frame.

8. Ensure shuttle stop is positioned correctly.


Conduct a Bore - 110 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Remove Pipe
9. Load pipe into pipe box:

Manual Pipeloader Controls Automated Pipeloader Control

• Move shuttle under pipe box to shuttle • Press RESUME. Green control cycle light
stop. will come on.
• Release grippers and raise lift arms to • Shuttles will retract under edge of pipe box
place pipe in box. and then green control cycle light will
flash.
• Lube front threads.
• Move carriage forward until it clears end of
pipe box. Green control cycle light will
come on, shuttles will retract, front threads
will be lubed, grippers will release pipe,
pipe lifters will raise until pipe is off
shuttles, and then green control cycle light
will flash.

10. Attach saver sub to next pipe:


• Move carriage forward until saver sub touches pipe.
• Rotate spindle just enough to allow saver sub to connect to pipe.
• Slowly tighten joint to full machine torque.
11. Disengage front wrench to release pipe.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Conduct a Bore - 111
Remove Pullback Device

Remove Pullback Device


The pullback device can be removed when the last pipe is on the frame. It can also be removed when a
target pit along the bore path has been reached. Remaining pipe is then pulled back and removed.

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe wrenches


on drill string. 273-278

1. Press bottom of drilling unit throttle switch until engine is at low throttle.
2. Turn off drilling fluid.
3. Clean pullback device.
4. Turn drilling unit engine off.
5. Disconnect pullback material.
6. Use quick wrench to remove pullback device.
Conduct a Bore - 112 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Remove Pullback Device
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 113

Systems and Equipment

Chapter Contents
Anchor System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
• Drive Anchors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
• Remove Anchors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116

Electric Strike System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117


• FCC Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
• Assemble Voltage Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
• Test Strike System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
• Troubleshoot Strike System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
• Use Electric Strike Simulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Drilling Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123


• Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123
• Polymer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123
• Bentonite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
• Mixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
• Basic Fluid Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
• Drilling Fluid Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
• Funnel Viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126

DrillLok™/Tracker Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Downhole Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128


• Nozzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128
• Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128
• Beacon Housings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
• Backreamers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130
• Backream Fluid Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
Systems and Equipment - 114 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Quick Wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Drill Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135


• Perform Regular Drill Pipe Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135
• Use Drill Pipe Correctly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137

Pipeloader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
• Shift Pipe Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139
• Correct Dropped Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139
• Correct Misaligned or Jammed Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140
• Rotate Drill Pipe Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140
• Add/Remove Single Pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141

Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147


• Engage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
• Adjust Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
• Override . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148
• Disengage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148
• Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148

Interpret Diagnostic Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149


• Diagnostic Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
• Code Severity Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
• Review Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
• Diagnostic Code Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151
• Diagnostic Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 115
Anchor System

Anchor System

Crushing weight. If load falls or moves, it could kill or


crush you. Use proper procedures and equipment or stay away.

To help avoid injury:

• Drive anchors properly before drilling.


• Stand on platform when operating anchor controls.
• Wear high-top protective boots with legs of pants completely tucked inside.
• Wear protective gloves.
• If you are not driving two anchors to full depth, drive optional ground rod into soil away from drilling
unit and connect ground rod to drilling unit.

Turning shaft can kill you or crush arm or leg. Stay away.

To help avoid injury: Do not replace anchor collar bolt with one longer
than original. Clothing could catch on turning shaft.
Systems and Equipment - 116 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Anchor System

Drive Anchors

IMPORTANT: Carefully time anchor rotation with


anchor movement. Properly driven anchors should
not auger up soil.

1. Use anchor rotation and thrust controls to drive


anchor into ground.

NOTICE: Centering cap MUST be


positioned in centering tube to prevent
damage to anchor.

2. Carefully position centering cap (1) into centering


tube (2) as anchor is being driven into ground.
3. Repeat process for other anchor.

Remove Anchors
1. Use anchor rotation and thrust controls to slowly
remove anchor shaft from ground.
2. Repeat process for other anchor.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 117
Electric Strike System

Electric Strike System


Any time you drill in an electric jobsite, electric strike system must be properly set up, tested, and used.
You must wear protective boots and gloves meeting the following standards:

• Boots must have high tops and meet the electric hazard protection requirements of ASTM F2413 or
ASTM F1117 when tested at 14,000 volts. Tuck legs of pants completely inside boots.
• Gloves must have 17,000 AC maximum use voltage, according to ASTM specification D120.

If working around higher voltage, use gloves and boots with appropriately higher ratings.

NOTICE: The strike system does not prevent electric strikes or detect strikes before they occur. If
alarms are activated, a strike has already occurred and equipment is electrified.

Read and follow “Electric Jobsite Precautions” on page 65. Review safety procedures before each job.

FCC Statement
The Electric Strike System has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, can cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area could cause harmful interference which the user will be required to correct at his own
expense.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved in writing by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. may void
the user's authority to operate this equipment.
Systems and Equipment - 118 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Electric Strike System

Assemble Voltage Detector


1. Drive voltage stake into ground at least 6’ (2 m)
away from any part of system.
2. Clip voltage limiter to voltage stake.

Test Strike System


If system fails any part of this test, see “Troubleshoot Strike System” on page 119 on the following page.
Do not drill until test is completed successfully.

1. Turn on drilling unit.


2. ESID control module will perform internal tests which check everything but alarms and strobe.
3. If green OK indicator and electrical power supply indicator lights remain on, press self test button to
perform total test of strike system. During this test:
• All lights should glow.
• Alphanumeric readout should display numbers.
• Alarms and strobes (shown) on all
connected units should sound.
4. If this test is successful, OK indicator and
electrical power supply indicator lights will
remain on.
5. Use Electric Strike Simulator to test
voltage and current sensors. See
page 121.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 119
Electric Strike System

Troubleshoot Strike System


When strike system detects a problem, an error code will be displayed. Anytime this happens, press self
test button to retest. If error code is still displayed and does not appear in this chart, have control module
checked or replaced.

Other problem situations and their possible causes and solutions are listed in the chart below.

Problem Possible cause Possible solution

No lights or readings Problems in startup Push self test button. If problem goes
showing after drilling unit away, retest strike system
key has been on at least
one minute No power to strike system Check drilling unit electric system
control module
Check that harness from drilling unit
to control module is connected

Check that cable from drilling unit


carries more than 10V

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Screen is blank Strike system is not getting Check drilling unit electric system
adequate power from drilling
unit Check that harness from drilling unit
to control module is connected

Check that harness from drilling unit


carries more than 10V

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Information on screen is LCD contrast is not set properly Contact your Ditch Witch® dealer to
visible during self test but adjust contrast
not after test is complete

OK indicator is on, but Strike system is not getting Check drilling unit electric system
electrical power supply adequate power from drilling
indicator is off unit Check that harness from drilling unit
to control module is connected

Check that harness from drilling unit


carries more than 10V

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Electrical power supply Problem detected during test Check for error code and have control
indicator is on, but OK module checked or replaced
indicator is off
Defective control module Have control module checked or
replaced
Systems and Equipment - 120 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Electric Strike System

Problem Possible cause Possible solution

Strobe light on drilling unit Improper connections with Check connections and wiring
does not work during total control module harness
test
Defective strobe light 1. Disconnect strobe and connect to
external 12V power source.
2. If strobe does not work, replace it.

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Alarm on drilling unit does Improper connections with Check connections and wiring
not work during total test control module harness

Defective alarm 1. Disconnect strobe and connect to


external 12V power source.
2. If strobe does not work, replace it.

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Strobe light and alarm on Improper connections with Check connections and wiring
drilling unit do not work control module harness
during total test
Defective control module Have control module checked or
replaced

EC2 code displays and Improper connections with Check cable connections on control
current problem indicator is control module module and current transformer
on
Defective current transformer 1. Disconnect current transformer.
2. Check for 20-40 ohms from pin 1
to pin 4, 20-40 ohms from pin 1 to
pin 2, and less than 1 ohm from
pin 2 to pin 4.

Defective current transformer 1. Disconnect cable from


cable transformer and control module.
2. Check continuity of cable.
3. If continuity is zero or cable is
damaged, replace.

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

EV1 code displays and Improper connection of voltage Check voltage limiter connection to
voltage problem indicator is limiter to ground stake ground stake and verify that ground
on stake is driven into the ground

Defective voltage limiter Have voltage limiter checked or


replaced

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 121
Electric Strike System

Problem Possible cause Possible solution

EV2 code displays and Improper connections with Check cable connection on control
voltage problem indicator is control module module
on
Defective voltage limiter Have voltage limiter checked or
replaced

Defective control module Have control module checked or


replaced

Use Electric Strike Simulator


Use the Electric Strike Simulator (p/n 259-506) to test voltage and current sensors on ESID. If readings are
less than indicated here, replace 9V battery in simulator and retest.

Current Test

To test for current at normal levels:

1. Thread one lead wire through current transformer.


2. Clip ends of lead wires together to make one loop.
3. Move simulator switch to "current" and press test button.
4. Watch screen and lights above display on strike system.
• Three or four lights should turn on.
• Current "A" should show 30-50% in display.

To test for current at strike levels:

1. Put two or three loops through current transformer.


2. Follow steps above to test.
3. Display should show the following:
• All lights should turn on.
• Alarm and strobe should turn on.
With two loops,
• Current "A" should be 80-110%.
• Strike indication might go on and off.
With three loops,
• Current should be 130-160%.
• Strike indication should be continuous.
Systems and Equipment - 122 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Electric Strike System

Voltage Test

1. Place voltage limiter on something insulated from ground and drilling unit (such as dry board or tire),
but near frame of drilling unit.
2. Clip one lead to frame.
3. Clip other lead to one voltage limiter mount.
4. Move simulator switch to "voltage" and press test button.
5. Watch screen and lights above display on strike system.
• All lights should turn on.
• Alarm and strobe should turn on.
• Voltage "V" should show 90-110%.

It is normal for simulator voltage levels to drift below strike level. When this happens, light in triangle should
go off and alarm and strobe should stop working. If the level drifts above strike level again, light, alarm, and
strobe should be turned on again.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 123
Drilling Fluid

Drilling Fluid

Improper handling or use of chemicals may result in illness, injury, or


equipment damage. Follow instructions on labels and in material safety data sheets
(MSDS).

For productive drilling and equipment protection, use these recommended Baroid® products, available
from your Ditch Witch® dealer.

• Soda ash

• Quik-Gel® dry powder bentonite (p/n 259-804)

• EZ-Mud® liquid polymer (p/n 259-805)


• Liqui-Trol™ liquid polymer suspension (p/n 259-808)

• Quik-Trol® dry powder polymer (p/n 259-809)

• Bore-Gel® drilling fluid (p/n 259-807)

• Con Det® water-soluble cleaning solution (p/n 259-810)

Guidelines
Match drilling fluid to soil type. This chart is meant as a guideline only. See your local Ditch Witch dealer for
soil conditions and drilling fluid recommendations for your area.

Soil type Drilling fluid recommendation

smooth, flowing sand bentonite or Bore-Gel + medium chain polymer

coarse sand or light soil bentonite or Bore-Gel

heavy clay long chain polymer + Con-Det

swelling clay long chain polymer + Con-Det

rock Bore-Gel

Polymer
This drilling fluid additive provides excellent lubrication and increases viscosity in average soils and heavy
clay. In swelling clay, polymer can reduce swelling that traps pipe in the bore.

There are two types of polymer:

• long chain such as Baroid EZ-Mud


• medium chain such as Baroid Quik-Trol
Systems and Equipment - 124 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Drilling Fluid

Bentonite
Bentonite is a dry powder. When properly mixed with water, it forms a thin cake on bore walls, lubricating
the bore, keeping it open, and holding fluid in the bore.

Some things to remember when mixing bentonite:

• Use clean water free of salt, calcium, or excessive chlorine.


• Use water with pH level between 9 and 10.
• Use water with hardness of less than 120 ppm.
• Do not use bentonite containing sand.
• Mix bentonite thoroughly or it will settle in tank.
• Do not mix bentonite to a funnel viscosity of over 50.

For information on measuring funnel viscosity, see “Funnel Viscosity” on page 126.

Mixtures
Bentonite does not mix well in water containing polymer. To use both, mix bentonite first, then add polymer.
When adding other products follow the order listed below.

IMPORTANT:

• If chemicals are added in the wrong order, they will not mix properly and will form clumps.
• If tank contains bentonite/polymer mix and more drilling fluid is needed, completely empty tank and
start with fresh water before mixing another batch.

General mixing order:

1. Soda ash
2. Bentonite
3. Polymer

4. Con Det®

Bore-Gel® contains premixed bentonite, polymer, and soda ash. Use approximately 15 lb/100 gal (7 kg/
380 L) in normal drilling conditions, up to 45 lb/100 gal (21 kg/380 L) in sand or gravel and up to 50 lb/100
gal (23 kg/380 L) in rock.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 125
Drilling Fluid

Basic Fluid Recipes

Soil type Mixture/100 gal (378 L) of water Notes

fine sand 35 lb (16 kg) Bore-Gel®

coarse sand 35 lb (16 kg) Bore-Gel Add .5 lb (225 g) of Quik-Trol® for


.5 lb (225 g) No-Sag® additional filtrate control

fine sand below water 40 lb (18 kg) Bore-Gel Add .5 - 1 gal (2-4 L) of Dinomul® in high
table .75 lb (340 g) Quik-Trol torque situations

coarse sand below 40 lb (18 kg) Bore-Gel Add .5 - 1 gal (2-4 L) of Dinomul in high
water table .75 lb (340 g) Quik-Trol torque situations
.75 lb (340 g) No-Sag

gravel 50 lb (23 kg) Bore-Gel Add .5 lb (225 g) of Barolift® to reduce


.75 lb (340 g) Quik-Trol loss of returns
.75 lb (340 g) No-Sag

cobble 50 lb (23 kg) Bore-Gel Add .5 lb (225 g) of Barolift to reduce loss


.75 lb (340 g) Quik-Trol of returns
.75 lb (340 g) No-Sag

sand, gravel, clay or 35 - 40 lb (16-18 kg) Bore-Gel Vary mixture according to percentage of
shale .5 pt (235 mL) EZ-Mud® sand and clay
.5 gal (2 L) Con-Det

clay .5 lb (225 g) Poly Bore Flow rate should be 3-5 parts fluid to 1
.5 gal (2 L) Con-Det® part soil. May use .25 - .5 gal (1-2 L) of
Penetrol instead of Con-Det

swelling/sticky clay .75 - 1 lb (340-450 g) Poly Bore Flow rate should be 3-5 parts fluid to 1
.5 - 1 gal (2-4 L) Con-Det part soil. May use .25 - .5 gal (1-2 L) of
Penetrol instead of Con-Det

solid rock (shale) 40 lb (18 kg) Bore-Gel Use .5 pt (235 mL) of No Sag for large
diameter or longer bores

solid rock (other than 40 - 50 lb (18-23 kg) Bore-Gel Use .5 pt (235 mL) of EZ-Mud in reactive
shale) shales

rock/clay mixture 40 - 50 lb (18-23 kg) Bore-Gel


.5 pt (235 mL) EZ-Mud

rock/sand mixture 40 - 50 lb (18-23 kg) Bore-Gel Use .5 pt (235 mL) of No Sag for large
diameter or longer bores

fractured rock 50 lb (23 kg) Bore-Gel Use .5 lb (225 g) of Barolift to reduce fluid
.5 - 1lb (225-450 g) No-Sag loss to formation
Systems and Equipment - 126 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Drilling Fluid

Drilling Fluid Requirements


1. Determine drilling conditions and choose appropriate drilling fluid mix.
2. Estimate amount of supplies needed and check availability.
• Drilling fluid
• Water supply. If more water than can be carried with the unit will be needed, arrange to transport
additional water.
• Bentonite and/or polymer
3. Check water quality.
• Use meter or pH test strips to test pH of water. If pH is below 9.0, add 1 lb (454 g) soda ash per
tank. Test and repeat until pH is between 9 and 10.
• Check water hardness using hardness test strips. Treat with soda ash if hardness exceeds 125
ppm.

Funnel Viscosity
Viscosity is the measure of internal resistance of a fluid to flow; the greater the resistance, the higher the
viscosity. Viscosity of drilling fluids must be controlled.

To determine viscosity, you will need a Marsh funnel (p/n 259-267) and a measuring cup, available from
your Ditch Witch® dealer.

IMPORTANT: Make sure Marsh funnel is clean and free of obstruction and that you have a stopwatch
available for timing the viscosity.

1. Using wash hose and a clean container, take a fresh


sample of drilling fluid. The sample must be at least
1.5 qt (1.4 L).
2. With finger over bottom of funnel, fill with fluid from
the container through the screen until fluid reaches
the bottom of the screen.
3. Move funnel over 1 qt (.95 L) container.
4. Remove finger from bottom of funnel and use the
stopwatch to count the number of seconds it takes for
1 qt (.95 L) of fluid to pass through the funnel. The
number of seconds is the viscosity.
5. Thoroughly rinse measuring cup and Marsh funnel.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 127
DrillLok™/Tracker Control

DrillLok™/Tracker Control
Overview

Rotating shaft will cause death or serious injury. Stay


away.

To help avoid injury:

• Use DrillLok/tracker control any time you change downhole tools or during other times when the drill
string is exposed.
• If you are not using DrillLok/tracker control, turn off drilling unit before changing downhole tools.

This mode allows the tracker operator to disable hydraulic power to drilling unit thrust and rotation.

NOTICE: This mode does not disable thrust and rotation immediately. Functions are disabled within 16
seconds.

Troubleshooting Tip: If thrust and rotation are not


enabled check whether the green DrillLok™/tracker
control light (shown), located on drilling unit anchoring
console, is on. If it is, thrust and rotation have been
disabled by DrillLok/tracker control.

NOTICE: Tracker operator cannot disable thrust and


rotation from tracker if DrillLok/tracker control key is
installed in drilling unit and turned to the deactivated
position.

See “DrillLok™/Tracker control key” on page 24.

Operation with Ditch Witch® Tracking Equipment: See tracker manual.

Operation without Ditch Witch® Tracking Equipment: Only available on units with DrillLok™ system.
See DrillLok™ operation sheet.
Systems and Equipment - 128 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Downhole Tools

Downhole Tools
Nozzles
Nozzles control fluid flow from the pipe to the bore. Select nozzles that will supply at least the amount of
fluid per minute needed for the flow and pressure you will be using. A nozzle that will supply more fluid per
minute is recommended. See your Ditch Witch® dealer for nozzle recommendations.

Bits
Selection

These charts are meant as a guideline only. No one bit works well in all conditions. See your Ditch Witch
dealer for soil conditions and bit recommendations for your area.

• 1 = best
• 2 = good
• 3 = fair
• 4 = not recommended

Bit Sandy Soft Soil Medium Hard Rocky Soft Hard


Soil Soil Soil Soil Rock Rock

Sand bit 1 2 4 4 4 4 4

Durabit 2 2 1 1 4 4 4

Tuff bit 2 1 1 1 2 3 4

Steep Taper Tuff bit 4 3 2 1 1 2 4

Barracuda bit 2 1 1 2 3 4 4

Steep Taper bit 4 3 2 1 1 2 4

Hard Surface bit 2 1 2 3 4 4 4

Glacier bit 4 4 4 3 1 2 4

Rhino bit 4 4 3 3 1 1 3

Jetting assembly 4 4 3 2 1 2 3

Rockmaster™ 4 4 3 2 1 1 1

Talon bit 4 3 2 1 1 1 4
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 129
Downhole Tools

Soil Description

sandy soil sugar sand, blow sand, or other soils where sand is the predominant component

soft soil sandy loam

medium soil loams, loamy clays

hard soil packed clays, gumbo, all compacted soils

rocky soil chunk rock, glacial till, cobble, rip rap, gravel

soft rock soft limestone, sandstone, shale, coral, caliche

hard rock granite, schist, marble, hard limestone

Installation

Remove all paint from mating surfaces before attaching any bit to housing. Install screws (p/n 107-277)
and tighten to 120 ft•lb (163 N•m).

Beacon Housings
Lid Installation

1. Clean all threads, bolt holes, and mating surfaces.


2. Use removable thread locker (Loctite® 242 or equivalent), if desired.
3. Tighten bolts to 60-70 ft•lb (81-95 N•m).
4. Repeat tightening sequence.
Systems and Equipment - 130 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Downhole Tools

Backreamers
A backreamer enlarges the hole as pipe is pulled back through the bore. No one backreamer works well in
all conditions. These charts are meant as a guideline only. See your local Ditch Witch® dealer for soil
conditions and backreamer recommendations for your area.

• 1 = best
• 2 = good
• 3 = fair
• 4 = not recommended

Backreamer Sandy Soft Soil Medium Hard Rocky Soft Hard


Soil Soil Soil Soil Rock Rock

Beavertail 3 1 1 1 3 4 4

Three Wing 4 3 3 2 1 1 4

Water Wing 4 3 2 1 2 2 4

Compact Fluted 1 1 2 2 2 3 4

Kodiak 4 3 3 2 1 2 4

Rhino Rock 4 4 4 4 3 2 1

Rockmaster™ 4 4 4 4 3 1 1

Compaction 1 2 3 4 4 4 4
Cone

HC Hard 4 3 2 1 1 4 4
Condition

ST Saw Tooth 2 2 1 2 2 3 4

MX Mixer 2 2 3 4 4 4 4

CT Cutter 3 2 1 2 3 4 4

EX Expander 1 2 3 4 4 4 4

Fluted Cone 1 1 2 2 2 3 4

IMPORTANT: For soil definitions, see the chart on the previous page.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 131
Downhole Tools

Backream Fluid Requirements


Backreaming is only successful when enough fluid reaches the bore. The amount of fluid needed depends
on size of bore and soil condition.

Follow these steps to find the minimum amount of fluid needed in perfect conditions.

IMPORTANT: Use more fluid than recommended or the backream might be dry and unsuccessful.

Instructions Example

1. Find amount of fluid needed for your size of U.S. A 6” backreamer requires at least 1.47
backreamer. See the table on the next page. gal/ft.

Metric A 152-mm backreamer requires at least


18.24 L/m.

2. Multiply this number by distance per minute U.S. 1.5 gal x 2 ft/min = 3 gal for each minute of
you plan to backream. The answer is an backreaming.
estimate of amount of fluid you will need for
each minute of backreaming. Metric 18 L x .5 m/min = 9 L for each minute of
backreaming

IMPORTANT: After you have determined how much fluid you will need, see your Ditch Witch® dealer for
nozzle recommendations.
Systems and Equipment - 132 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Downhole Tools

Backream Fluid Requirements

Backreamer/product Gal/ft L/m Backreamer/product Gal/ft L/m


diameter diameter

.5 in 13 mm 0.01 0.13 13.5 in 343 mm 7.44 92.35

1 in 25 mm 0.04 0.51 14 in 356 mm 8.00 99.31

1.5 in 38 mm 0.09 1.14 14.5 in 368 mm 8.58 106.54

2 in 51 mm 0.16 2.03 15 in 381 mm 9.18 114.01

2.5 in 64 mm 0.25 3.17 15.5 in 394 mm 9.80 121.74

3 in 76 mm 0.37 4.56 16 in 406 mm 10.44 129.72

3.5 in 89 mm 0.5 6.21 16.5 in 419 mm 11.11 137.95

4 in 102 mm 0.65 8.11 17 in 432 mm 11.79 146.44

4.5 in 114 mm 0.83 10.26 17.5 in 445 mm 12.49 155.18

5 in 127 mm 1.02 12.67 18 in 457 mm 13.22 164.17

5.5 in 139 mm 1.23 15.33 18.5 in 470 mm 13.96 173.42

6 in 152 mm 1.47 18.24 19 in 483 mm 14.73 182.92

6.5 in 165 mm 1.72 21.41 19.5 in 495 mm 15.51 192.68

7 in 178 mm 2.00 24.83 20 in 508 mm 16.32 202.68

7.5 in 190 mm 2.29 28.50 20.5 in 521 mm 17.15 212.94

8 in 203 mm 2.61 32.43 21 in 533 mm 17.99 223.46

8.5 in 216 mm 2.95 36.61 21.5 in 546 mm 18.86 234.23

9 in 229 mm 3.30 41.04 22 in 559 mm 19.75 245.25

9.5 in 241 mm 3.68 45.73 22.5 in 572 mm 20.65 256.52

10 in 254 mm 4.08 50.67 23 in 584 mm 21.58 268.05

10.5 in 267 mm 4.50 55.86 23.5 in 597 mm 22.53 279.83

11 in 289 mm 4.94 61.31 24 in 610 mm 23.50 291.86

11.5 in 292 mm 5.40 67.01 24.5 in 622 mm 24.49 304.15

12 in 305 mm 5.88 72.97 25 in 635 mm 25.50 316.69

12.5 in 318 mm 6.37 79.17 25.5 in 648 mm 26.53 329.49

13 in 330 mm 6.90 85.63 26 in 660 mm 27.58 342.53


JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 133
Quick Wrench

Quick Wrench
To attach or remove downhole tools, use quick wrench to join or break the joint.

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe wrenches


on drill string. 273-278

IMPORTANT: Apply TJC to threads and hand-tighten joint before attaching quick wrench components to
tighten joint.

Attach quick wrench in either the join or break position.

Join Break

• Unbolt vise (1) and place jaws around pipe.


• Bolt jaws of vise together.
• Place jaw (2) around pipe.
• Pin handles (3) to wrench jaws. Be sure handles are both up.
• Attach pivot nuts (4) to wrench handles so that screw drive handle (5) is over joint.
Systems and Equipment - 134 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Quick Wrench
To Join

1. Scribe straight line across joint on both sides of


separating line (A).
2. Scribe second line (B) on moveable side of joint in
the opposite direction of tightening action .25” (6
mm) away from first line.
A A
3. Turn handle until second line (B) meets first (A). B B
4. Turn handle opposite direction two turns to relieve
pressure.
5. Remove quick wrench components. A A

To Break j07om071h.eps

To help avoid injury: Ensure that engine is not on or DrillLok™/tracker control has disabled the unit
before breaking joints.

1. Turn handle until joint is broken.


2. Turn handle opposite direction two turns to relieve pressure.
3. Remove quick wrench components.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 135
Drill Pipe

Drill Pipe
Perform Regular Drill Pipe Care
Precondition New Pipe

Repeat this procedure three times for each piece of pipe before it is used the first time:

1. Hand-lubricate entire surface of threads and shoulders of both ends of pipe with copper base tool
joint compound. See page 163 for correct lubricant.
2. Join pipe and tighten joint.
3. Break joint.
4. Move pipe back to box.

NOTICE: Failure to follow this procedure could result in fused joints. Pipe will be damaged or destroyed.

Lubricate Joints Before Each Use

Lubricate threads and shoulders of male joints with copper base tool joint compound. This prevents rust
and reduces wear on shoulders and threads. See page 163 for correct lubricant.

Clean the Threads

Clean the threads as needed with high-pressure water and detergent.

NOTICE: Do not use gasoline or other petroleum-based solvents. This prevents tool joint compound
from sticking to the joints and will reduce thread life.

Replace Worn Saver Sub

Because each pipe comes in contact with the saver sub, check saver sub regularly for wear. Compare
condition of saver sub threads to condition of your drill pipe threads. Replace saver sub any time when its
thread condition is not better than thread condition of your drill pipe. Failing to replace saver sub will result
in damaged drill pipe. See page 185 for replacement procedure.

Precondition a new saver sub the same way you do new pipe. See “Precondition New Pipe” on page 135.

Rotate Pipe Order

Because the lead drill pipe is in the ground longer, it is subjected to higher shock loads and experiences
more wear. To help spread this wear evenly over all pipe, move the lead pipe from the previous job out of
the first position. See “Rotate Drill Pipe Order” on page 140.
Systems and Equipment - 136 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Drill Pipe

Use Caps and Plugs

Before transporting in dusty conditions or prolonged


storage, install caps and plugs to male and female
ends of pipe and to saver sub.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 137
Drill Pipe

Use Drill Pipe Correctly


Align the Joints

Always carefully align the male and female


ends of pipe before connecting them together.
Poor alignment can damage the threads and
destroy the usefulness of the joint.

Clamp Pipe Correctly

Clamp on pipe when joint is centered between


wrenches. Clamp only on the tool joint of the
drill pipe as shown. This portion of the drill pipe
is designed for clamping and is considerably
thicker and stronger than the rest of the pipe.

NOTICE: Clamping anywhere else on the


pipe will weaken the pipe. Pipe can later
break, even when operating under normal
loads.
Systems and Equipment - 138 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Drill Pipe

Make Up and Break Out Joints Correctly

This consists of two steps:

• Make up and break out joints slowly. Do not ram pipes together during makeup or force them
apart during breakout. Carefully time rotation with carriage travel speed, and always connect and
disconnect joints slowly and deliberately. This will help prevent thread crossing, galling, and
shoulder swelling.
• Tighten joints fully. Once the joint is connected and the shoulder faces are touching, tighten to
full machine torque. Improperly tightened joints will damage the shoulder faces and threads, and
will cause joints to leak or break while drilling or backreaming.

Do not Overwork the Pipe

Never exceed the bend radius for your pipe. See “Recommended Bend Limits” on page 68. Do not
oversteer.

NOTICE: Bending pipe more sharply than recommended will damage pipe and cause failure.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 139
Pipeloader

Pipeloader
Shift Pipe Box

IMPORTANT: Lift arms must be fully raised for pipe box to move.

Drilling

1. Shift pipe box when both pipe box status lights are
off.
2. Release pipe box switch when box hits mechanical
stops, then move back to align mechanical pointer
in center of cutout (shown) for new column.

Backreaming

1. Shift pipe box when active column is full (8 pipes).


2. Release pipe box switch when mechanical pointer
is in center of cutout (shown) for new column.

Correct Dropped Pipe


When grippers are not closed before drill pipe automation is enabled, the pipeloader can drop a drill pipe
when automation is turned off. To prevent this, always grip pipe before enabling pipeloader automation.
See “Enable Automated Pipeloader System” on page 99.

To return a dropped pipe to the drill string, turn off engine and manually retrieve pipe. Return it to the pipe
box by one of the following methods:

• To return the pipe to its original position in the drill string, load it as a single piece of pipe.
• To return the pipe to a later position in the drill string, remove two pins over top of pipe box, manually
place the pipe into top of the active column, and install two pins.
Systems and Equipment - 140 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Pipeloader

Correct Misaligned or Jammed Pipe


One pipe box status light on and one light off indicates a misaligned or jammed pipe. Turn off engine and
inspect pipe in active column.

• If one end of a drill pipe is jammed and will not drop correctly from pipe box, inspect pipe box position.
If pipe box appears to be improperly aligned with discharge chute, return to operator’s station and
move pipe box slightly until mechanical pointer is in center of cutout (see page 139) for active column.
• If drill pipe is bent, remove it from pipe box and discard.

NOTICE: If neither of the causes and solutions outlined above correct the misaligned or jammed pipe,
contact your Ditch Witch® dealer for assistance.

Rotate Drill Pipe Order


Rotating the lead pipe to the back of the string is a manual process. Rotate drill pipes in the drill string
weekly.

Guidelines

• Rotate only as many columns as used on the longest bore of the week. For example, if the longest
bore was 320’ (98 m), then only rotate the four columns used.
• Plan to rotate the pipes during the longest bore of the week.
• The lead pipe can only be rotated to the very back of the drill string when a bore requires at least one
pipe from last (inner) column.

Procedure

1. During pullback, move to next column when only seven pipes are in last column from which pipe was
removed during drilling.
2. Follow regular pullback procedure to load pipe into all remaining columns.
3. When lead pipe is in grippers, disconnect from both ends of lead pipe and retract shuttles fully.
4. Follow procedure for removing a single pipe. See page 141.
5. Turn off engine.
6. Remove pins across top of pipe box.
7. Remove lead pipe from auxiliary shuttles and place into vacant slot in pipe box.
8. Install pins over drill pipe.
9. Close both auxiliary pipe loaders.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 141
Pipeloader

Add/Remove Single Pipe


Load a single drill pipe or up to a whole column of drill pipe into an empty column of pipe box to finish bore.

Electric shock will cause death or serious injury. Stay


away. 274-049

To help avoid injury:

• Do not attempt to load and unload pipe while drilling or backreaming. Unprotected worker can be
injured by electric strike.
• On electrical jobsite, load and unload pipe only if loader is wearing electrically insulating boots and
gloves.

Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all controls.


Your safety is at stake. 273-475

To help avoid injury:

• Open or close both auxiliary pipe loaders. Moving shuttles with one auxiliary pipe loader open and
one closed will damage equipment and cause possible injury.
• Carriage must be in full back position to load and unload pipe.
Systems and Equipment - 142 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Pipeloader

Add Single Pipe

1. Press top of shuttle lockout switch (shown)


to prevent shuttle operation.
2. Ensure shuttle guard is lowered.

3. Remove two pins (1) and raise shuttle


cover.
4. Slide tabs out (2) to support shuttle cover.
5. Press bottom of shuttle lockout switch to
allow shuttle operation.
6. Raise pipe lifters.
7. Move shuttles out.
8. Press top of shuttle lockout switch to
prevent shuttle operation.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 143
Pipeloader
9. Pull pin (2) on shuttle, rotate auxiliary pipe
loader down, and install pin.
10. Repeat for other shuttle.
11. Lift pipe stop indicator (3), rotate, and lock
into slot.
Systems and Equipment - 144 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Pipeloader
12. Load pipe into auxiliary pipe loaders with lower end resting against pipe stop indicator.

Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use


proper procedures and equipment or stay away.

To help avoid injury:

• Drill pipe is heavy. Have enough people on hand to manually add or remove single pipe to pipe box.
• Do not attempt to move shuttles until everyone is at least 10 ft (3m) away from machine.

13. Press bottom of shuttle lockout switch to allow shuttle operation.


14. Lower pipe lifters.
15. Move shuttles in fully.
16. Raise pipe into column.
17. Move shuttles out.
18. Repeat steps 8-16 to load more pieces of pipe.
19. Move pipe into pipeloader grippers.
• Raise last pipe.
• Move shuttles out.
• Lower pipe into front grippers.
20. Before operating pipe loader:
• Press top of shuttle lockout switch to prevent shuttle operation.
• Close both auxiliary pipe loaders.
• Remove pipe stop and store it on shuttle guard.
• Slide tabs in on shuttle guard and let shuttle guard cover drop. Replace pins.
• Move at least 10 ft (3 m) away from drill.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 145
Pipeloader

Remove Single Pipe

Unload all drill pipe loaded with auxiliary pipe loaders. Pipe in fifth row of pipe box can be unloaded only
when all other rows are empty.

1. Press top of shuttle lockout switch (shown)


to prevent shuttle operation.
2. Ensure shuttle guard is lowered.

3. Remove two pins (1) and raise shuttle


cover.
4. Slide tabs out (2) to support shuttle cover.
Systems and Equipment - 146 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Pipeloader
5. Pull pin (2) on shuttle, rotate auxiliary pipe
loader down, and install pin.
6. Repeat for other shuttle.
7. Lift pipe stop indicator (3), rotate, and lock
into slot.
8. Press bottom of shuttle lockout switch to
allow shuttle operation.
9. Lower pipe into auxiliary pipe loaders.
10. Move shuttles out.
11. Press top of shuttle lockout switch to
prevent shuttle operation.
12. Remove pipe.

Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use


proper procedures and equipment or stay away.

To help avoid injury:

• Drill pipe is heavy. Have enough people on hand to manually add or remove single pipe to pipe box.
• Do not attempt to move shuttles until everyone is at least 10 ft (3 m) away from machine.

13. Press bottom of shuttle lockout switch to allow shuttle operation.


14. Move shuttles in.
15. Repeat steps 9-12 to unload remaining added drill pipe.
16. After all added drill pipe is unloaded with auxiliary pipe loaders:
• Press top of shuttle lockout switch to prevent shuttle operation.
• Close both auxiliary pipe loaders.
• Remove pipe stop and store it on shuttle guard.
• Slide tabs in on shuttle guard and let shuttle guard cover drop. Replace pins.
17. Press bottom of shuttle lockout switch to allow shuttle operation and move at least 10 ft (3 m) away
from drill.
18. Finish loading remaining drill pipe into row 5 using standard procedure. See “Remove Pipe” on
page 109.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 147
Cruise Control

Cruise Control
During the bore, you can set the desired thrust, pullback, and rotation speeds to match ground conditions.
Cruise control enables the unit to maintain these settings hands-free. You can engage, disengage,
override, and resume these settings at any time.

IMPORTANT: In order for cruise control to function, front wrench must be open and shuttles must be
under pipe box.

Engage

Thrust/Pullback and Rotation Control Thrust/Pullback Control Only

1. Position joystick so that thrust or pullback and 1. Position joystick to desired thrust or pullback
rotation are at desired speeds. setting.
2. Press set. Green control cycle light will come 2. Press set. Green control cycle light will come
on. on.
3. Release joystick. 3. Release joystick.
4. Operator controls rotation with joystick.

NOTICE: Counterclockwise rotation can “break


out” pipe joints downhole and unthread the joint.
Operator should not rotate counterclockwise long
enough to unthread a joint.

Adjust Settings

Setting Instructions

Thrust or Pullback • To increase thrust or pullback speed while joystick is in neutral position,
press resume.
• To decrease thrust or pullback speed while joystick is in neutral position,
press set.

Rotation • To increase rotation speed, move joystick to left and press resume.
• To decrease rotation speed, move joystick to left and press set.
Systems and Equipment - 148 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Cruise Control

Override
• To override thrust settings, move joystick out of neutral and beyond current setting. Unit will increase to
new setting.
• To return to previous setting, release joystick.

Disengage
To disengage cruise control, move joystick out of neutral and in opposite direction of carriage travel. Green
control cycle light will go off.

Resume
RESUME /
1. Position joystick out of neutral in previous direction of travel.
2. Press resume. Green control cycle light will come on.

SET /
c00ic113h.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 149
Diagnostic Codes

Diagnostic Codes
The JT20 is equipped with two diagnostic systems: engine and machine. The engine diagnostic system
detects critical and non-critical errors within the engine operating system and communicates fault codes on
the engine display. The machine diagnostic system detects essential and non-essential errors within the
automated machine control system.

Electronic Controlled Engine Overview


This unit is equipped with a self-diagnostic computer-controlled fuel management system. A variety of
sensors send input data to an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that compares inputs with pre-programed
parameters and sends output voltage to a variety of actuators to adjust and operate the engine within the
specified parameters.

Warning indicators on the engine display tell the operator when critical and non-critical faults develop. Non-
critical faults occur when engine sensors detect moderate trouble with coolant temperature, oil pressure,
charge air temperature, or fuel temperature. Non-critical faults cause the operator alert indicator to light.
Critical faults cause the engine shutdown indicator to light. In both cases, a fault code is stored in the ECU.
If the fault corrects itself, the engine will gradually return to normal power. The alert indicator will continue
to flash until the trouble goes away, but a fault code will remain stored.

Engine shutdown will occur due to critical faults in engine coolant temperature or oil pressure. Before
shutdown, the operator alert indicator will light continuously and the engine will begin a rapid power derate.
If the fault does not improve in 30 seconds the engine will shut down.

Reading Engine Diagnostic Codes


Problems with the engine are indicated by a popup message box on the engine display. The popup
message is presented as either yellow for non-critical faults, or red for critical engine faults.

To hide/show active codes:

Press the soft key on the right next to the Hide icon. The message box will disappear, however the
Warning or Stop message will remain on the screen until the fault is cleared.
Systems and Equipment - 150 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Diagnostic Codes

Reading Machine Diagnostic Codes


Use the red diagnostic light to learn the condition of the diagnostic system. Under normal operating
conditions, the diagnostic light will light steadily for two seconds after ignition is turned on to indicate light is
working. It will then go out and remain out unless a diagnostic code is recorded.

If diagnostic codes are detected, the diagnostic light will either flash on and off for 10 seconds to indicate a
non-essential code or remain on for 3 seconds and off for half a second to indicate an essential code.

Code Severity Levels


Diagnostic codes are given one of two levels of severity.

• A non-essential code affects non-essential functions of the unit. If the system detects a non-essential
problem, a diagnostic code will be recorded and the diagnostic light will flash for 10 seconds and then
go out. Each time ignition is turned on, full operation will be available until the diagnostic system
detects a problem.
• An essential code affects rotation, thrust, drilling fluid, or ground drive. If the system detects an
essential problem, a diagnostic code will be recorded and the diagnostic light will cycle on for three
seconds and off for 1/2 second. Some machine functions may not work until the problem is corrected.
Each time ignition is turned on, full operation will be available until the diagnostic system detects a
problem.

Review Modes

IMPORTANT: Do not turn off ignition. Diagnostic codes are cleared each time ignition is turned off.

View All Codes View Codes Individually

1. Ensure that engine is running and no one is 1. Ensure that engine is running and no one is
sitting in operator’s seat. sitting in operator’s seat.
2. Press and hold the resume button for two 2. Press and hold the set button for two
seconds. seconds.
3. Diagnostic light will flash code 12 three times 3. Diagnostic light will flash code 12 (flash,
to indicate review mode is operational. pause, flash, flash, longer pause) to indicate
review mode is operational.
4. After flashing code 12, all diagnostic codes
detected since the last time the ignition was 4. After code 12 is flashed, press set button to
turned on are flashed three times each. see first code.
5. To save diagnostic codes, continue normal • Press resume to see same code again or
operation. Do not turn ignition off. press set to see next code.
6. Once the problem has been corrected, clear • Continue pressing set until all diagnostic
all codes by turning ignition off. codes detected since the last time the
ignition was turned on are flashed.
5. To save diagnostic codes, continue normal
operation. Do not turn ignition off.
6. Once the problem has been corrected, clear
all codes by turning ignition off.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 151
Diagnostic Codes

Diagnostic Code Interpretation


Diagnostic codes are displayed through a series of light flashes and pauses. Count number of flashes and
pauses to interpret code.

Example: “Flash, flash, flash, pause, flash, flash, longer pause” represents code 32.

Tips for interpreting codes:

• In View All Codes mode, the green control cycle light will come on the first time the red diagnostic light
flashes a code. The green control cycle light will then go off and the red diagnostic light will flash the
code two more times.
• Codes are displayed from lower to higher numbers.
• Code 11 is not used.
• Code 12 signals successful entry into and exit from review mode.
Systems and Equipment - 152 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Diagnostic Codes

Machine Diagnostic Codes


The following table lists the attributes of each diagnostic code. Information presented includes: code
number, condition causing code to be sent, result, and level of severity.

Code Condition Result Severity

12 normal review mode entry code is not stored n/a

13 no 12V power to controller drill and drive are blocked essential

14 no 5V power from controller drill and drive are blocked essential

15 unknown output driver continuity code is stored non-


problem essential

32 no continuity to shuttle extend add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-


solenoid and code is stored essential

33 no continuity to shuttle retract add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-


solenoid and code is stored essential

34 no continuity to pipe lift solenoid add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-
and code is stored essential

35 no continuity to pipe lower solenoid add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-
and code is aborted essential

42 no continuity to pipe release solenoid add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-
and code is stored essential

44 no continuity to lube front solenoid add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-
and code is stored essential

45 no continuity to carriage two speed code is stored non-


solenoid essential

51 no continuity to rotation cw solenoid cruise control is blocked essential

52 no continuity to rotation ccw solenoid cruise control is blocked essential

53 no continuity to thrust forward cruise control is blocked essential


solenoid

54 no continuity to thrust backward cruise control is blocked essential


solenoid

55 no continuity to left track forward drive is blocked essential


solenoid

61 no continuity to pipe box in solenoid code is stored non-


essential

62 no continuity to pipe box out solenoid code is stored non-


essential

63 no continuity to auxiliary dump valve add pipe or remove pipe aborted and non-
code is stored essential
JT20 Operator’s Manual Systems and Equipment - 153
Diagnostic Codes

Code Condition Result Severity

65 no continuity to thrust/right track cruise control is blocked essential


neutral valve

71 no continuity to drive selector valve drive is blocked essential

111 no continuity to left track reverse drive is blocked essential


solenoid

112 no continuity to right track forward drive is blocked essential


solenoid

113 no continuity to right track reverse drive is blocked essential


solenoid

114 no continuity to drilling fluid pump code is stored essential


solenoid

131 no continuity to thrust rear home add pipe and remove pipe are non-
switch blocked essential

132 no continuity to thrust front home add pipe and remove pipe are non-
switch blocked essential

133 no continuity to shuttle home switch add pipe and remove pipe are non-
blocked essential

134 no continuity to front wrench switch add pipe and remove pipe are non-
blocked essential

144 drive joystick left/right out of range drive is blocked essential

145 drive joystick forward/backward out of drive is blocked essential


range

151 drill joystick left/right out of range rotation and cruise control are blocked essential

152 drill joystick forward/backward out of rotation and cruise control are blocked essential
range

154 drilling fluid potentiometer out of code is stored essential


range

161 no continuity to front pipe box switch code is stored non-


essential

162 no continuity to rear pipe box switch code is stored non-


essential

163 no continuity to pipe up switch pipe box movement is blocked and non-
code is stored essential

164 no continuity to DrillLok™/tracker code is stored non-


control input essential

166 no continuity to thrust rear stop switch code is stored non-


essential
Systems and Equipment - 154 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Diagnostic Codes

Code Condition Result Severity

221 system voltage is below 12.5V code is stored non-


essential

233 drill and drive inputs both on drill and drive are blocked essential

235 front home and rear home inputs both add pipe and remove pipe are non-
on blocked essential

241 shuttles not responding correctly add pipe or remove pipe is aborted non-
and code is stored essential

254 error reading setup table information add pipe and remove pipe are essential
blocked

255 undefinable diagnostic code reported code is stored non-


essential
JT20 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 155

Complete the Job

Chapter Contents
Antifreeze Drilling Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
• Add Antifreeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .156
• Reclaim Antifreeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157

Rinse Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Disconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Stow Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158


Complete the Job - 156 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Antifreeze Drilling Unit

Antifreeze Drilling Unit


Your drilling unit can be left overnight in freezing conditions by circulating a polypropylene-based antifreeze
(p/n 265-644) through optional antifreeze system before shutdown.

Add Antifreeze
1. Fill antifreeze tank with 3 gal (11 L) of approved
antifreeze.
2. Move carriage to front of drill frame.
3. Position 3-gal (11-L) bucket under spindle.
4. Install plug at quick coupler for drilling fluid pump
(shown).
5. Open valve between antifreeze tank and head of
drilling fluid pump.
6. Turn drilling fluid potentiometer counterclockwise to
zero position.
7. Start unit and set throttle to slow position.
8. Slowly turn drilling fluid potentiometer clockwise
until indicator light comes on. If light does not come
on, press drilling fluid pump switch.
9. Run drilling fluid pump until antifreeze comes out of spindle.
10. Turn drilling fluid potentiometer counterclockwise to zero position.
11. Open valve below operator’s console (shown).
12. Slowly turn drilling fluid potentiometer clockwise
until indicator light comes on.
13. Close valve below console when antifreeze runs
out of valve below console.
14. Turn drilling fluid potentiometer counterclockwise
to zero position.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Complete the Job - 157
Antifreeze Drilling Unit

Reclaim Antifreeze
1. Connect remote fluid system. See page 93.
2. Turn on remote fluid system engine.
3. Start drilling unit and run at low throttle.
4. Move carriage to front of drill frame.
5. Position 3-gal (11-L) bucket under spindle.
6. Turn drilling fluid pump on low speed.
7. Turn drilling fluid pump off when drilling fluid comes out of spindle.
8. Open hood and pour antifreeze into tank.

IMPORTANT: Antifreeze can be removed from antifreeze tank and disposed of properly or it can be
reused until it is too diluted with drilling fluid to protect against freezing.
Complete the Job - 158 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Rinse Equipment

Rinse Equipment
Using Washwand

Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause


severe injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. 270-6035

To help avoid injury:

• Never use high flow when using washwand.


• Prime the drilling fluid pump before operating washwand. Failure to prime the drilling fluid pump will
cause flow fluctuations, which will make it difficult to control the washwand. For instructions, see
“Prime Drilling Fluid Pump” on page 94.

NOTICE: Do not spray water onto operator’s console. Electrical components could be damaged. Wipe
down instead.

1. Connect the washwand at quick connect (1) at rear


of unit. Open valve (2) to start water flow. Close
valve to stop water flow.
2. Spray water onto equipment to remove dirt and
mud. Some pressure might be needed to remove
dried mud from wrench area.

Disconnect
Disconnect and store the following hoses and cables (if
used):

• electric strike system voltage stake


• fluid hose

Stow Tools
Make sure all quick wrenches, bits, pullback devices, and other tools are loaded and properly secured on
trailer or truck.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 159

Service

Chapter Contents
Service Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
• Welding Precaution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
• Washing Precaution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
• Working Under Drilling Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161

Recommended Lubricants/Service Key . . . . . . . 163


• Approved Fuel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164
• Approved Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164

10 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
25 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

50 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

250 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176


500 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

750 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

1000 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

2000 Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

As Needed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Service - 160 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Service Precautions

Service Precautions

Read operator’s manual. Know how to use all controls.


Your safety is at stake. 273-475

To help avoid injury:

• Unless otherwise instructed, all service should be performed with engine off.
• Refer to engine manufacturer’s manual for engine maintenance instructions.

Welding Precaution

Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.


Follow directions carefully.

To help avoid injury:

• Disconnect battery to prevent damage to battery. Do not turn off battery disconnect switch with
engine running, or alternator and other electronic devices may be damaged.
• Connect welder ground clamp close to welding point and make sure no electronic components are
in the ground path.
• Always disconnect the electronic control module (ECM) ground connection from the frame, harness
connections to the ECM, and other electronic components prior to welding on machine or
attachments.

Washing Precaution

NOTICE: Water can damage electronics. When cleaning equipment, do not spray electrical components
with water.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 161
Service Precautions

Working Under Drilling Unit

Crushing weight could cause death or serious injury. Use


proper procedures and equipment or stay away.

Before working under area of drilling unit supported by a stabilizer, make sure drilling unit is parked on
hard surface.

1. Remove cylinder locks from storage at rear of pipe box and place over extended cylinder rods (shown)
with curved ends toward stabilizer shoes.
2. Raise stabilizers to lower unit until load is supported by cylinder locks.

If working under raised drill frame, support front and back of drill frame with jack stands or equivalent
brace capable of supporting the weight of the unit.
Service - 162 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Service Precautions

Opening/Closing Front Hood


To open:

1. Unlock hood at handles (1, 2) if hood is locked.


2. Unlatch handles (1) and rotate handle (2)
counterclockwise.
3. Grasp upper and lower (2, 4) handles.
4. Lift hood upward and outward.
5. Continue lifting hood and push inward until up-latch
(5, below) engages.

To close:

1. Disengage the up-latch (5) by holding it up as the


hood is pulled outward using the lower handle (4).
2. Pull outward on the hood until it begins to move
downward.
3. Place other hand on top outer surface of hood (1)
and firmly push downward until hood is in place.
4. Latch handles (1) and rotate handle (2) to secure
hood.
5. Lock hood at handle (1,2), if desired.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 163
Recommended Lubricants/Service Key

Recommended Lubricants/Service Key


Item Description

DEO Diesel engine oil meeting or exceeding Deutz specification DQC III- LA.
(Tier 4
Units) NOTICE: This unit is shipped from the factory with API CJ-4 DEO meeting Deutz
specification DQC II-LA. Change oil initially at 250 hours.

• Engine must use low sulfated ash, phosphorous, and sulfur (low (SAPS) oil.
• See viscosity chart.
• If oils meeting only API CJ-4 or ACEA E6/E9 are used, service interval is reduced to
250 hours.

DEO Diesel engine oil meeting or exceeding Deutz® specification DQC III.
(Tier 4i
Units) NOTICE: Shipped from factory with API CJ-4 DEO meeting Deutz specification DQC II-
LA. Change oil initially at 100 hours if fuel sulfur level content exceeds 500 ppm (500
mb/kg). Otherwise initial oil change should be at 250 hours.

• See viscosity chart.


• If oils meeting only API CJ-4 or ACEA E7 are used, service interval is reduced to
250 hours.

NDO SAE 30 Non-detergent oil

MPG Multipurpose grease. Use polyurea based NLGI GC-LB Grade 1.5 or lithium based NLGI
GC-LB Grade 2.

EPG Open gear extreme pressure lubricant (p/n 256-666)

EPS Open gear extreme pressure lubricant, spray (p/n 256-034)

MPL Multipurpose gear oil meeting API service classification GL-5 (SAE 80W90)

THF Tractor hydraulic fluid, similar to Phillips 66® HG, Mobilfluid® 424, Chevron® Tractor
Hydraulic Fluid, Texaco® TDH Oil, or equivalent

TJC Tool joint compound: Ditch Witch® standard (p/n 259-858), environmentally friendly
(257-1005), or summer grade (p/n 256-031)

DEAC Low silicate, nitrite free, fully formulated diesel engine antifreeze/coolant meeting Deutz
specification DQC CB-14. See “Approved Coolant” on page 164.

Check level of fluid or lubricant Check condition

Filter Change, replace, adjust, service or


test
Service - 164 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Recommended Lubricants/Service Key

Proper lubrication and maintenance protects Ditch Witch® equipment from damage and failure. Service
intervals listed are for minimum requirements. In extreme conditions, service machine more frequently.
Use only genuine Ditch Witch parts, filters, approved lubricants, TJC, and approved coolants to maintain
warranty. Fill to capacities listed in “Specifications” on page 191.

For more information on engine lubrication and maintenance, see your engine manual.

IMPORTANT: Use the “Service Record” on page 199 to record all required service to your machine.

Approved Fuel
This engine is designed to run on diesel fuel. Use only high quality fuel meeting ASTM D975 No. 2D,
EN590, or equivalent. At temperatures below 32° F (0° C) winter fuel blends are acceptable. See the
engine operation manual for more information.

IMPORTANT: Fuel sulfur content should be less than 5000 ppm (0.5%). Worldwide, fuel sulfur
regulations vary widely. Fuel used should always comply with local regulations. If using lube oil meeting
API CJ-4, (or other low SAPS equivalent) and fuel with sulfur content above 15 ppm (0.0015%), ULSD
in the U.S.), reduce oil change interval to 125 hours.

Biodiesel blends up to 5% (B5) are approved for use in this unit. The fuel used must meet the
specifications for diesel fuel shown above. In certain markets, higher blends may be used if certain steps
are taken. Extra attention is needed when using biodiesel, especially when operating in cold weather or
storing fuel. Contact your Ditch Witch dealer or the engine manufacturer for more information.

Approved Coolant

Beginning April 4, 2016, this unit was filled with red coolant meeting Deutz® DQC CB-14 before shipment
from factory. Add or replace only with coolant meeting this specification. This coolant is available, pre-
diluted, from your Ditch Witch dealer as part number 255-1053. Contact your Deutz service partner for a
full list of approved coolants meeting DQC CB-14. In an emergency, non-Deutz approved, heavy duty
diesel engine coolant meeting ASTM D6210 may be used. Change to DQC CB-14 coolant as soon as
practical.

Prior to April 4, 2016, this unit was filled with yellow John Deere® Cool-Gard® coolant before shipment
from factory. Add only John Deere Cool-Gard (p/n 255-006) or any fully-formulated, ethylene glycol based,
low-silicate, heavy-duty diesel engine coolant meeting ASTM specification D6210. Switch to the new
approved red coolant described above at the next change interval.

NOTICE:

• Use only pre-diluted or concentrated coolant mixed with distilled water. Do not use tap water.
• Do not use water or high-silicate automotive-type coolant. This will lead to engine damage or
premature engine failure.
• Do not mix heavy-duty diesel engine coolant and automotive-type coolant. This will lead to coolant
breakdown and engine damage.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 165
Startup/10 Hour

Startup/10 Hour
Task Notes

Check fuel filter water separator

Check air filter indicator and clean dust trap

Check engine oil level DEO

Check engine coolant level DEAC

Check hydraulic hoses

Check hydraulic fluid level THF

Check fluid pump oil level NDO

Test control switches

Check pipe lube applicator

Check pipe auto lubricator spray nozzle

Check pipe auto lubricator TJC level TJC

Check drilling fluid y-strainer

Check Fuel Filter Water Separator

Check fuel filter water separators before startup


and every 10 hours of operation. Drain water at
plug (shown) as needed.

j38om008w.eps
Service - 166 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Startup/10 Hour

Check Air Filter Indicator and Clean


Dust Trap

Check air filter indicator (1) and inspect dust trap


(2) for cracks every 10 hours. Change filter
elements when indicator reaches the red zone.
See “Change Air Filter” on page 184. 1

NOTICE: Only open the air filter canister


when air restriction is indicated. Change the
elements, do not attempt to clean them.

• Compressed air or water may damage 2


filter elements.
j38om009w.eps
• Tapping filter elements to loosen dirt may
damage filter seals.

Check Engine Oil Level

Check engine oil at dipstick before startup and


every 10 hours of operation. Check with unit on
level surface and at least 15 minutes after
stopping engine. Add DEO at fill as necessary to
keep oil level at highest line on dipstick.

j38om010w.eps

Check Engine Coolant Level

Check coolant level, with engine cool, at


expansion tank before startup and every 10
hours of operation. Maintain coolant level at
halfway point on sight glass. If low, add pre-
diluted coolant to maintain proper freeze
protection.

IMPORTANT: See “Approved Coolant” on


page 164 for information on approved
coolants.

j38om011w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 167
Startup/10 Hour

Check Hydraulic Hoses

Pressurized fluid or air could pierce skin and cause severe


injury. Refer to operator’s manual for proper use. 270-6035

To help avoid injury:

• Before disconnecting a hydraulic line, turn engine off and operate all controls to relieve pressure.
Lower, block, or support any raised component with a hoist. Cover connection with heavy cloth and
loosen connector nut slightly to relieve residual pressure. Catch all fluid in a container.
• Before using system, check that all connections are tight and all lines are undamaged.
• Use a piece of cardboard or wood, rather than hands, to search for leaks.
• Wear protective clothing, including gloves and eye protection.
• If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention from a doctor familiar with this type of injury.

Check hydraulic hoses for leaks before startup and


every 10 hours of operation.
Service - 168 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Startup/10 Hour

Check Hydraulic Fluid Level


1
Check hydraulic fluid level before startup and
every 10 hours of operation. Maintain fluid level
at halfway point on sight glass (2), when engine
is off and fluid is cool. Refill with THF at hydraulic 2
fluid fill (1).

j38om012w.eps

Check Fluid Pump Oil Level

Check fluid pump oil level at fill plug (1) before


startup and every 10 hours of operation. Maintain 1
fluid level at fill plug. Add NDO at fill plug (1) as
needed.

j38om013w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 169
Startup/10 Hour

Test Control Switches

Check control proximity switches before startup


and every 10 hours of operation and clean or
replace as needed.

1. front pipe box switch


2. rear pipe box switch
3. rear stop switch
4. rear home switch
5. shuttle position switch 1 2
6. front home switch 6 5 43
j38om014w.eps

To test:

1. Turn ignition switch to the on position. Do not start engine.


2. Place metal object above target on each switch.
3. If yellow LED on switch lights, switch sensor is working.

Check Pipe Auto Lubricator Spray


Nozzle

Check pipe auto lubricator spray nozzle before


startup and every 10 hours of operation. Ensure
that nozzle is free of obstructions and operates
properly. Clean as needed.

NOTICE: Ditch Witch® tool joint compound is


specially formulated to work with Ditch Witch
pipe lubrication system. Use of other tool joint
compounds will clog system. See
“Recommended Lubricants/Service Key” on
page 163 for more information.
j38om015w.eps

To clean:

1. Rotate handle to the upward, or cleanout, position (A).


2. Operate pump until obstruction is flushed.
3. Rotate handle to the downward, or spray, position (B).
4. Clean nozzle guard. If necessary, pull handle/nozzle insert out of housing to clean with fine wire or
solvent.
Service - 170 JT20 Operator’s Manual
Startup/10 Hour

Check Pipe Auto Lubricator TJC Level

Check pipe auto lubricator TJC level before


startup and every 10 hours of operation. Change
pail as needed. See “Change Auto Lubricator
TJC Pail” on page 181 for procedure.

NOTICE: Ditch Witch tool joint compound is


specially formulated to work with Ditch Witch
pipe lubrication system. Use of other tool joint
compounds will clog system. See
“Recommended Lubricants/Service Key” on
page 163 for more information.

j38om016w.eps

Clean Drilling Fluid Y-Strainer

Clean drilling fluid y-strainer before startup and


every 10 hours of operation. Ensure that strainer
is free of debris.

j38om017w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 171
50 Hour

50 Hour
Task Notes

Change fluid pump oil Initial service, NDO

Check radiator

Change hydraulic filter Initial service

Check ground drive gearbox oil level 2 gearboxes, MPL

Check rotation gearbox oil level MPL

Lube rotation gearbox sliding output shaft EPS

Inspect thrust rollers

Change Fluid Pump Oil (Initial Service)

Change fluid pump oil after first 50 hours and


every 1000 hours thereafter. Drain at plug (2) and 1
add NDO engine oil at plug (1). Maintain fluid level
at fill plug.

j38om018w.eps
Service - 172 JT20 Operator’s Manual
50 Hour

Check Radiator

Check radiator for dirt, grass, and other debris


every 50 hours. Check more often if operating in
dusty or grassy conditions. Clean as needed.

To clean:

• Clean fins with compressed air or spray


wash.
• Open rear hood and spray through radiator
toward engine.
• If grease and oil are present on radiator,
spray with solvent and allow to soak
j38om019w.eps
overnight.

IMPORTANT: Be careful not to damage fins


with high pressure air or water.

Change Hydraulic Filters


(Initial Service)

Change hydraulic main and charge filters after


first 50 hours. Replace filter every 500 hours
thereafter. Change filter more often if indicated by
filter indicator. See “Specifications” on page 191.

j38om020w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 173
50 Hour

Check Ground Drive Gearbox Oil Level

Check oil level in both ground drive gearboxes


every 50 hours.

To check:

Open check plug (2). If oil does not come out,


open fill plug (1) and add MPL until level with
check plug (2).

IMPORTANT:

• Drilling unit must be on level ground for


accurate reading. j38om021w.eps

• Use helper to assist in positioning gearbox


plugs for checking and adding oil.
• Do not overfill.

Check Rotation Gearbox Oil Level

Check rotation gearbox oil level every 50 hours.


Add MPL through plug (1) as needed.

IMPORTANT: Drill frame must be level for


accurate reading.

j38om022w.eps
Service - 174 JT20 Operator’s Manual
50 Hour

Lube Rotation Gearbox Sliding Output


Shaft

Lube rotation gearbox sliding output shaft with


EPS every 50 hours.

To lube:

• Stop engine and turn battery disconnect


switch to the OFF position.
• Clean exposed portion of sliding output shaft
with pressure washer to remove grime.
• Blow dry with compressed air.
• Apply EPS spray lube to all exposed shaft j38om025w.eps

surfaces while manually moving the shaft in


and out.
• Turn battery disconnect switch to the ON position.

Inspect Thrust Rollers

Inspect thrust rollers (at each end of carriage)


every 50 hours. Clean or replace if they do not
turn freely.

j38om023w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 175
100 Hour

100 Hour
Initial Engine Oil and Filter Change
(Tier 4i units)
Initial engine oil and filter change is 100 hours if 2 1
fuel sulfur content is above 500 PPM. Otherwise
initial oil change should be at 250 hours. See
“Recommended Lubricants” for more information
about DEO specifications.
3
To change:
4
1. Extend drain tray (4).
2. While oil is warm, remove drain plug (3).
Drain oil, replace plug, and slide drain tray
j38om044w.eps
(4) into original location.
3. Remove filter (1) and replace with new filter each time oil is changed. Add DEO at fill neck (2).
Service - 176 JT20 Operator’s Manual
250 Hour

250 Hour
Task Notes

Change engine oil and filter (Tier 4 final units)

Inspect air intake system

Engine Oil and Filter Change


(Tier 4 final units)
Regular engine oil and filter change is 250 hours 2 1
See “Recommended Lubricants” for more
information about DEO specifications.

To change:
3
1. Extend drain tray (4).
4
2. While oil is warm, remove drain plug (3).
Drain oil, replace plug, and slide drain tray (4)
into original location.
3. Remove filter (1) and replace with new filter j38om044w.eps

each time oil is changed. Add DEO at fill neck


(2).

Inspect Air Intake System

Inspect intake piping for cracked hoses, loose


clamps, or punctures. Tighten or replace parts as
necessary.

j38om024w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 177
500 Hour

500 Hour
Task Notes

Change hydraulic fluid and filter Normal conditions

Change fuel filter

Change Hydraulic Fluid and Filter


(Normal Conditions)

Change hydraulic main and charge filters every


500 hours. Change filter more often if indicated
by filter indicator.

j38om020w.eps

Change Fuel Filters

Replace fuel filters every 500 hours. See parts


manual or contact your Ditch Witch® dealer for
correct replacement filter.

j38om026w.eps
Service - 178 JT20 Operator’s Manual
750 Hour

750 Hour
Change Fluid Pump Oil

Change fluid pump oil after first 50 hours and


every 750 hours thereafter. Drain at plug (2) and 1
add NDO engine oil at plug (1). Maintain fluid
level at fill plug. Capacity for pump is 1 qt (0.9 L).

j38om028w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 179
1000 Hour

1000 Hour
Task Notes

Change ground drive gearbox oil 2 gearboxes, MPL

Change rotation gearbox oil MPL

Lube rotation gearbox inner splines EPG

Change Ground Drive Gearbox Oil

Change oil in both ground drive gearboxes every


1000 hours.

To change:

Drain MPL at plug (3). Add MPL at plug (1) until


level with check plug (2).

j38om029w.eps

Change Rotation Gearbox Oil

IMPORTANT:

• Drill unit must be parked on level surface


for accurate reading.
• Use helper to assist in positioning gearbox
plugs for checking and adding oil.
• Do not overfill.

Drain oil at gearbox oil drain (2) every 1000


hours. Replace drain plug. Add MPL at fill plug
(1). Replace fill plug.
j38om030w.eps

IMPORTANT: Drill frame must be level for


accurate reading.
Service - 180 JT20 Operator’s Manual
2000 Hour

Lube Rotation Gearbox Internal


Splines

Lube rotation gearbox internal splines with EPG


every 1000 hours.

To lube:

• Turn battery disconnect switch to the OFF


position.
• Clean rotation gearbox area to remove grime.
• Disconnect hose and remove water swivel.
• Using special socket, remove thrust locknut,
tang lock washer, and nut. j38om046w.eps

• Remove sliding shaft from front side of gearbox. Clean and dry all components.
• Coat internal splines in gearbox with EPG.
• Reinstall shaft and components in reverse order of removal.
• Apply EPS spray lube to sliding shaft surfaces. See page 174.
• Turn battery disconnect switch to the ON position.

2000 Hour
Drain Cooling System

Drain cooling system at drain (2) every two years


1
or 2000 hours. Add approved coolant at fill (1).

t37om042w.eps
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 181
As Needed

As Needed
Task Notes

Change pipe auto lubricator pail TJC

Change hydraulic filter Any time system is opened

Check pipeloader pads

Check front pipe guide inserts

Check fluid pump ball valve

Check track tension and condition

Change/Adjust engine drive belt

Change air filter

Check saver sub

Replace SaverLok® body

Check battery

Charge battery

Change Auto Lubricator TJC Pail

Check pipe auto lubricator TJC level and change


pail as needed.

To change pail:

1. Remove wingnuts and bolts attaching base


ring (4) to pail cover (1).
2. Rotate base ring slightly to clear hooks on
cover and remove pail from cover.
3. Remove follower plate (3) from empty pail
and install into new pail. Press firmly on
follower plate until TJC comes up in center
j38om016w.eps
opening.
4. Remove base ring from empty pail and install onto new pail.
5. Install pail into place over pump dip tube. Use hooks on cover to support base ring.
6. Install bolts and wingnuts.
7. Remove cap (2) from discharge tee on pump. Operate pump until discharged TJC is free of air
pockets. Replace cap.

NOTICE: Use only genuine Ditch Witch® tool joint compound to maintain warranty. See “Recommended
Lubricants/Service Key” on page 163 for more information.
Service - 182 JT20 Operator’s Manual
As Needed

Change Hydraulic Filters (Anytime


System Opened)

Change hydraulic filters anytime system is opened


for repair. Change filter and add THF at hydraulic
oil fill.

j38om020w.eps

Check Pipeloader Inserts

Check pipeloader inserts at indicated areas for


wear. Flip gripper inserts for longer wear, or
replace as needed. See your Ditch Witch® dealer
for replacement parts.

1. wear pad
2. shuttle wear pad
3. shuttle gripper pad
4. gripper pad

j38om032w.eps
IMPORTANT: Ensure bolts are tightened
evenly to enable inserts to slide freely and
wear evenly.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 183
As Needed

Check Front Pipe Guide Inserts

Check front pipe guide inserts (3) for wear.


Rotate inserts for longer wear, or replace as
needed. See your Ditch Witch® dealer for
replacement parts.

To replace:

1. Remove lynch pins (1, one on each side).


2. Remove guide inserts (3).
3. Remove pin (2) and open pipe guide.
4. Remove guide inserts (3).
j38om033w.eps
5. Replace in reverse order.

Check Fluid Pump Ball Valve

Check ball valve for leaks. Tighten stem packing


as needed. See your Ditch Witch dealer for
replacement packing.

j38om034w.eps

Check Track Tension and Condition

Check track tension and condition, and adjust or


replace as needed. See your Ditch Witch dealer
for replacement parts.

To adjust:

1. Pump MPG into fitting (A) until dimension (B)


is 21 7/8” (555 mm).
2. Drive straight forward one machine length
and check tension again.

j38om035w.eps
Service - 184 JT20 Operator’s Manual
As Needed

Change/Adjust Drive Belt

Change or adjust engine drive belt as needed.

To adjust:

1. Turn off engine and remove key.


2. Apply moderate thumb pressure to belt
between pulleys, as shown.
3. Belt is properly tensioned when deflection is
about 3/8” (10 mm).
4. If needed, loosen alternator bolts and pull
alternator out until correct tension is reached.
j38om043w.eps
5. Tighten alternator bolts.

Change Air Filter


5
Change air filter when red band on air filter
service indicator pops up.

To change:
3
2
1. Disengage clasps (1) and remove end cup.
2. Remove primary element (3).
1
3. Remove secondary element (2), if dirty.
4. Wipe inside of housing and wash end cup 4
(4).
5. Install new element(s).
j38om036w.eps

6. Install end cup and engage clasps.


7. Reset air filter service indicator (5).
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 185
As Needed

Check Saver Sub

Check saver sub and replace as needed. See your


Ditch Witch® dealer for replacement parts.

To replace:

1. Remove eight bolts that attach saver sub to


spindle. Do not remove indexing dowels from
spindle.
2. Remove and replace o-ring, if necessary.
3. Install in reverse order and tighten eight bolts
in a cross pattern to 47 ft•lb (64 N•m). Apply
Loctite® 242 to bolts before installation. j38om049w.eps

Replace SaverLok® Body


1
Replace SaverLok body (2) as needed. See your 2
Ditch Witch® dealer for replacement parts.
3
To remove: 4
1. Slide tool (4) over collar (3).
2. Start unit and position carriage so the
SaverLok tool can be clamped in rear wrench.
3. Close front wrench or clamp front wrench on
drill pipe tool joint if pipe is present.

j38om047w.eps
NOTICE: Clamping front wrench on
SaverLok nose will damage the threads and
impede disassembly.

4. Clamp rear wrench on SaverLok tool.

IMPORTANT: Unit may not build enough torque to break out the SaverLok body unless both
wrenches are closed.

5. Rotate spindle counterclockwise to unthread collar.


6. Turn off engine.
7. Remove collar from system and set aside for later use.
8. Remove SaverLok body from SaverLok connection (1).
Service - 186 JT20 Operator’s Manual
As Needed
To install:
1
1. Coat SaverLok connection (1) threads with
clean TJC. 2
2. Coat SaverLok (2) shoulder and SaverLok 3
collar (3) threads and shoulder with clean TJC.
4
3. Apply grease or lubricant to the SaverLok body
o-ring and insert SaverLok body into SaverLok
connection. The connection will not lock fully
into place.
4. Thread SaverLok body into connection until o-
ring is fully engaged using one of the following
methods:
• Slide SaverLok collar over SaverLok body j38om047w.eps
and engage threads by hand. Once the SaverLok collar is hand tight (bottomed out), remove
collar.
• Tap the SaverLok body nose with a rubber mallet until the o-ring is fully engaged.
5. Slide SaverLok collar over SaverLok body and hand-tighten the threads (typically 3-4 turns).
6. Slide SaverLok tool (4) over the collar until it is fully engaged.
7. Close front wrench, or if drill pipe is present, clamp front wrench on drill pipe tool joint to build pressure
in wrenches.

NOTICE: Clamping front wrench on SaverLok nose will damage threads or impede
disassembly.

8. Start unit and position carriage so that the small end of the tool can be clamped in the rear wrenches
with the tool’s handle still accessible.

Moving tools will kill or injure. Never use pipe


wrenches on drill string. 273-278

To help avoid injury: Do not start rotation until the tool is


clamped in the wrenches.

9. Clamp SaverLok tool and tighten until rotation pressure gauge reading is between 3800-4300 psi.
10. Immediately loosen the collar and repeat the tighten/loosen process five times to break in the contact
surfaces.
11. Finally, tighten collar, unclamp SaverLok tool, and move carriage to allow access to the SaverLok tool.
12. Remove tool and place it in storage location.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 187
As Needed

Check Battery

Check battery as needed. Keep batteries clean


and terminals free of corrosion.

To clean:

1. Turn battery disconnect switch to the off


position.
2. Ensure that no ignition sources are near
batteries.
3. Loosen and remove battery cable clamps
carefully, negative (-) cable first.
4. Clean cable clamps and terminals with wire j38om027w.eps
brush or battery cleaning tool to remove dull
glaze.
5. Check for signs of internal corrosion in cables.
6. Connect battery cable clamps, positive (+) cable first.
7. Tighten any loose connections.
8. Ensure that battery tiedowns are secure.
9. Turn battery disconnect switch to the on position.

Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.


Follow directions carefully.

To help avoid injury, do not create sparks and do not short across battery terminals for any reason.
Service - 188 JT20 Operator’s Manual
As Needed

Charge Battery

Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.


Follow directions carefully.

To help avoid injury:

• Use a single 12V maximum source for charging. Do not connect to rapid chargers or dual batteries.
• Use caution and wear personal protective equipment such as safety eyewear, when charging or
cleaning battery.
• Keep sparks, flames, and any ignition source away from batteries at all times. Internal contents are
extremely hazardous. Leaking fluid is corrosive. Battery may be explosive at higher temperatures.
• NEVER lean over battery when making connections.
• Do not allow vehicles to touch when charging.
• Do not attempt to charge a battery that is leaking, bulging, heavily corroded, frozen, or otherwise
damaged.
• NEVER short-circuit battery terminals for any reason or strike battery posts or cable terminals.
• Refer to MSDS for additional information regarding this battery.

Before You Start

Electronic components can be easily damaged by electrical surges. Jump starting can damage electronics
and electrical systems, and is not recommended. Try to charge the battery instead. Use quality large
diameter jumper cables capable of carrying high currents (400 amps or more). Cheap cables may not allow
enough current flow to charge a dead/discharged battery.

Read all steps thoroughly and review illustration before performing procedure.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Service - 189
As Needed
Charging Procedure (Engine Off)

1. Park service vehicle close to disabled equipment but do not allow vehicles to touch. Engage parking
brake in both vehicles.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position in both vehicles, and turn off all electrical loads. Disconnect
the machine controller.

3. Inspect battery in disabled vehicle (B) for signs of cracking, bulging, leaking, or other damage.
Connect red positive (+) jumper cable clamp to positive (+) post (2) of battery in disabled vehicle first.

IMPORTANT: Some equipment may have a positive jumper cable terminal (1) located externally.
If so equipped, connect red positive (+) jumper cable clamp to terminal.

4. Connect the other red positive (+) jumper cable clamp to positive (+) post of battery (A) in the service
vehicle.
5. Connect black negative (-) cable clamp to negative (-) post of battery (A) in service vehicle.
6. Connect the other black negative (-) cable clamp to the engine or frame ground on the disabled
vehicle, at least 12” (305 mm) from the failed battery, as shown.
7. Operate service vehicle engine at 1500-2000 rpm for a few minutes to build an electrical charge in the
failed battery.
8. Stop engine in service vehicle.
9. Remove jumper cables from the service vehicle, black negative (-) clamp first. Do not allow clamps to
touch.
10. Remove black negative (-) cable clamp from the disabled engine or frame ground first.
11. Remove red positive (+) cable clamp from the disabled vehicle positive (+) battery post last.
12. Reconnect machine controller and try to start disabled vehicle.

If the disabled vehicle did not start, check for loose or corroded battery cable connections. Poor
connections will prevent current from charging the failed battery. Clean terminals and posts if necessary
and repeat steps above.
Service - 190 JT20 Operator’s Manual
As Needed
JT20 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 191

Specifications

W L

j38om038w.eps

Dimensions U.S. Metric

L, overall machine length (per SAE J2022) 207 in 5.26 m

W, overall machine width (per SAE J2022) 51.5 in 1.31 m

H, overall machine height (per SAE J2022) 90 in 2.29 m

Entry angle (per SAE J2022) 10-14° 10-14°

Entry angle 18-24% 18-24%

Angle of approach 18° 18°

Angle of departure 18° 18°

Operating weight (per SAE J2022) 11,890 lb 5393 kg

Power Pipe® HD U.S. Metric

Length (per SAE J2022), nominal 120 in 3.05 m

Joint diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.63 in 67 mm

Tubing diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.06 in 52 mm

Minimum bend radius 107 ft 32 m

Weight (per SAE J2022), lined 67 lb 30.4 kg


Specifications - 192 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Ditch Witch® Forged HD U.S. Metric

Length (per SAE J2022), nominal 120 in 3.05 m

Joint diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.50 in 63 mm

Tubing diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.1 in 53 mm

Minimum bend radius 109 ft 33.2 m

Weight (per SAE J2022) 64 lb 29 kg

Forged U.S. Metric

Length (per SAE J2022), nominal 120 in 3.05 m

Joint diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.63 in 67 mm

Tubing diameter (per SAE J2022) 2.06 in 52 mm

Minimum bend radius 108 ft 32.9 m

Weight (per SAE J2022) 73 lb 33.1 kg

Operational U.S. Metric

Maximum spindle speed (per SAE J2022) 210 rpm 210 rpm

Maximum spindle torque (per SAE J2022) 2200 ft•lb 2980 N•m

Thrust force (per SAE J2022) 17,000 lb 75.6 kN

Pullback force (per SAE J2022) 20,000 lb 89 kN

Thrust travel speed (per SAE J2022) 140 fpm 43 m/min

Pullback travel speed (per SAE J2022) 140 fpm 43 m/min

Minimum bore diameter 4 in 102 mm

Backream diameter (soil dependent) variable variable

Ground travel speed

forward (per SAE J2022) 0-3.2 mph 0-5.2 km/h

reverse (per SAE J2022) 0-3.2 mph 0-5.2 km/h

Ground bearing pressure (per SAE J2022) 7.9 psi 0.56 kg/cm2
JT20 Operator’s Manual Specifications - 193

Power U.S. Metric

T4 engine: Deutz® TD2.9 EPA Tier 4, EU Stage IIIB


T4i engine: Deutz® TD2.9 EPA Tier 4i, EU Stage IIIA

Fuel: diesel

Cooling medium: liquid

Injection: direct

Aspiration: turbo and charge air cooled

Cylinders: 4

Displacement 177 in3 2.9 L

Bore 3.62 in 92 mm

Stroke 4.33 in 110 mm

Power

manufacturer’s gross power rating (per SAE J1995) 74 hp 55 kW

rated speed 2600 rpm 2600 rpm

Drilling Fluid System (Onboard) U.S. Metric

Maximum drilling fluid flow (per SAE J2022) 25 gpm 94 L/min

Maximum drilling fluid pressure (per SAE J2022) 1000 psi 69 bar

Fluid Capacities U.S. Metric

Fuel tank * 30 gal 114 L

Hydraulic reservoir 19 gal 72 L

Engine oil, including filter 8.5 qt 8L

Cooling system 4.6 gal 17 L


* Under normal operating conditions, a full tank of fuel will last 10 hours.
Specifications - 194 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Battery

SAE reserve capacity 195 min, 12V, negative ground, SAE cold crank @ 0°F (-18°C), 950 amps.

Vibration Level

Vibration transmitted to the operator’s hand and whole body during normal operation does not exceed
2.5 m/s2 and 0.5 m/s2 respectively.

Operator seat complies with ISO 7096.

Noise Levels

Operator ear sound pressure level is 82 dBA sound pressure per ISO 6396

Exterior sound power level is 99 dBA per ISO 6395

Specifications are called out according to SAE recommended practices where indicated. Specifications are general and subject to
change without notice. If exact measurements are required, equipment should be weighed and measured. Due to selected options,
delivered equipment may not necessarily match that shown.
JT20 Operator’s Manual Support - 195
Procedure

Support

Procedure
Notify your dealer immediately of any malfunction or failure of Ditch Witch® equipment.

Always give model, serial number, and approximate date of your equipment purchase. This information
should be recorded and placed on file by the owner at the time of purchase.

Return damaged parts to dealer for inspection and warranty consideration if in warranty time frame.

Order genuine Ditch Witch replacement or repair parts from your authorized Ditch Witch dealer. Use of
another manufacturer's parts may void warranty consideration.

Resources
Publications
Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for publications and videos covering safety, operation, service, and repair
of your equipment.

Ditch Witch Training


For information about on-site, individualized training, contact your Ditch Witch dealer.
Warranty - 196 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Warranty
Ditch Witch® Equipment and Replacement Parts
Limited Warranty Policy

Subject to the limitation and exclusions herein, free replacement parts will be provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for
any Ditch Witch equipment or parts manufactured by The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) that fail due to a defect in material or
workmanship within one (1) year of first commercial use. Free labor will be provided at any authorized Ditch Witch dealership for
installation of parts under this warranty during the first year following “initial commercial” use of the serial-numbered Ditch Witch
equipment on which it is installed. The customer is responsible for transporting their equipment to an authorized Ditch Witch
dealership for all warranty work.

Exclusions from Product Warranty


• All incidental or consequential damages.
• All defects, damages, or injuries caused by misuse, abuse, improper installation, alteration, neglect, or uses other than those for
which products were intended.
• All defects, damages, or injuries caused by improper training, operation, or servicing of products in a manner inconsistent with
manufacturer’s recommendations.
• All engines and engine accessories (these are covered by original manufacturer’s warranty).
• Tires, belts, and other parts which may be subject to another manufacturer’s warranty (such warranty will be available to
purchaser).
• ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES NOT EXPRESSLY STATED HEREIN, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND MERCHANTABILITY.

IF THE PRODUCTS ARE PURCHASED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES, AS DEFINED BY THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL
CODE, THEN THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE FACE HEREOF AND THERE ARE NO IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHICH EXTEND TO A COMMERCIAL BUYER. ALL OTHER PROVISIONS OF THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY APPLY INCLUDING THE DUTIES IMPOSED.

Ditch Witch products have been tested to deliver acceptable performance in most conditions. This does not imply they will deliver
acceptable performance in all conditions. Therefore, to assure suitability, products should be operated under anticipated working
conditions prior to purchase.

Defects will be determined by an inspection within thirty (30) days of the date of failure of the product or part by CMW or its authorized
dealer. CMW will provide the location of its inspection facilities or its nearest authorized dealer upon inquiry. CMW reserves the right
to supply remanufactured replacements parts under this warranty as it deems appropriate.

Extended warranties are available upon request from your local Ditch Witch dealer or CMW.

Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so above limitation of exclusion may not
apply. Further, some states do not allow exclusion of or limitation of how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may
not apply. This limited warranty gives product owner specific legal rights and the product owner may also have other rights which vary
from state to state.

For information regarding this limited warranty, contact CMW’s Product Support department, P.O. Box 66, Perry, OK 73077-0066, or
contact your local dealer.

First version: 1/91; Latest version: 11/11


JT20 Operator’s Manual Service Record - 199

Service Record
Service Performed Date Hours
Service Record - 200 JT20 Operator’s Manual

Service Performed Date Hours

You might also like