How to Use a Box Blade on a Tractor?
Table of Contents:
1. What Is a Box Blade?
2. How to Use a Box Blade?
3. How to Take Care of Your Box Blade?
4. Other Tips for Efficient Box Blade Operation
Leveling lumps, holes, and uneven ground is strenuous manual labor. It’s not only tough but also time-consuming. That is why instead of wasting your energy and time, you should look for a better alternative. And we have prepared the perfect one for you. A good box blade you can use with your tractor is a sound choice if you want to even the ground in no time. Moreover, you can do so without breaking a sweat. What is a box blade, and how to use it? We will answer these questions in today's article.
What Is a Box Blade?
Many landscaping and construction projects require appropriately leveled ground. The box blade's purpose is to help with that task. This rectangular tool has an adjustable box scraper with a rear panel. Box blade attaches to the rear of the tractor, and thanks to its front and rear scraping blades, you can quickly get rid of holes or uneven patches of soil. Moreover, soil, dirt, and gravel scraped by the rear blade are evenly dispersed. It is a bonus while working on construction sites, building driveways, or in various agricultural applications.
How to Use a Box Blade?
Before you purchase and/or start using a box blade, it is crucial to learn how. It is essential not only for greater efficiency but also for your health and safety. Luckily, using a box blade is not complicated. Nevertheless, if you use it inadequately, the operation may result in injuries or damage to the equipment or the tractor. Follow the below simple rules and use the equipment effectively, efficiently, and safely.
Read the Operator's Manual
It may seem time-consuming and unintuitive, but studying your machine's operator's manual is the first step you should take before attempting to operate any tool. It not only gives you the direction of operation but also safety practices and insightful information regarding the machine you use.
All models of tractor attachments Skidsteer.com carries come with easy-to-read manuals that allow for a quick study and swift beginning of the operation. We also offer our assistance should anything become unclear.
Use Protective Equipment
The main rule you should remember while using your box blade is to protect yourself and others. Therefore you should wear appropriate PPE (e.g., helmet, closed-toe shoes, gloves) and make sure no one is in the area you are working in. Pay special attention to the supervision of children.
Making the Top Link Adjustment
The box blade is an adjustable tool and can be set for every individual project. To do that, start by adjusting the top link to make the cutting blades touch the ground. Such a position allows for a basic smoothing action. If the ground is tougher, shorten the top link to angle blades forward. It will allow for a more effective operation in a rough field.
Use the Scarifiers
If during operation your machine encounters bumps or larger humps, use scarifiers to break it up and flatten the area. To do that, set the scarifiers in a locked position and shorten the top link to angle the box blade forward. After breaking up the tougher ground, move the scarifiers to the starting position and level the box blade on both sides.
Smoothen the Area
To smoothen the area, you must place the box blade level on the ground. Then, you should extend the top link, which will position the box blade slightly upwards. Next, position your 3-point (points of contact with the tractor) to 'float.' It will automatically set your box blade in a float position too. If you move forward, the tractor will pull the box blade along, working through the loose material and smoothing the ground.
Fill and Compact the Holes
Run the box blade over the same area several times to ensure the ground is appropriately leveled. If you notice a substantial dip, it is a good idea to bring more soil or gravel to the area and level the ground again so the depression areas disappear.
How to Take Care of Your Box Blade?
Proper maintenance is of as much importance as buying appropriate equipment. That is why we would like to leave a few tips on how to take care of your machine so it can serve you for a long time.
Inspections
Before and after the operation, make sure you inspect your equipment thoroughly. Look for any signs of damage or potential source of future damage (for example, loose parts). Also, ensure that the cutting edge is sharp.
Cleaning
Clean your box blade after every operation. It prevents the tool from rusting or corroding. Remove the dirt with a wire brush or scraper and dry the blade thoroughly.
Lubrication and Storage
Smooth operation is only achievable if the blade is appropriately lubricated. When it comes to storage, choose a dry place and ensure that is covered to protect your equipment from any influence of weather conditions.
Other Tips for Efficient Box Blade Operation
Box blade works great for leveling the ground, however, it’s not the only application for which you can use this versatile piece of equipment. Box blade is also a great alternative to tillers. You can use it to move ground to prepare it for seeding. Other applications include digging a ditch, maintaining gravel, or ripping up dirt. Some operators even use box blades for snow removal in wintertime.
If you still do not own a box blade, it is worth considering its purchase. Its various applications and easy operation make it one of the most valuable pieces of equipment on the market. At skidsteers.com, we offer you various types of tractor blade attachments made by leading American manufacturers, such as Blue Diamond.
Have a browse through our shop, and if you have any questions, our friendly team will be happy to assist you. Email us anytime or use our live chat during business hours to get help with your choice.