JOB RELATED

The efficiency of any machine depends on the efficiency of each of its parts. In the case of digging systems, one defective part—a stripped bolt, worn tooth or inferior sprocket—can mean the failure of the entire system.

The Ditch Witch organization manufactures the most efficient, most durable digging systems on the market today. High-quality chains, forged head shaft sprockets, and superior digging teeth are designed to work together as a system to provide unparalleled trenching performance.

Teeth: Too hard can be too brittle.

Ditch Witch digging teeth are made from a high-grade steel manufactured exclusively for The Charles Machine Works, Inc. After evenly applying tungsten carbide across the tooth face—we apply more tungsten carbide than any of our competitors—we then heat-treat the tooth with a special three-step process which makes the tooth harder without making it brittle. Independent tests show that Ditch Witch digging teeth last 29% longer than those of other manufacturers.

Chains: Can they handle the stress?

All digging chain is made from sidebars, pins and rollers. But the way Ditch Witch components are put together is what separates these chains from all others on the market. Ditch Witch chains are engineered with the proper tolerance to handle the stresses created by the toughest digging conditions.

The Ditch Witch Shark Chain II is the latest major innovation in digging design. The Shark Chain II is effective in most soils, from dirt to chunk rock, and is up to 35% more efficient in cleaning the trench than the original Shark Chain. The patented new design also creates a curved trench bottom to cradle the pipe or other service in the trench. Shark Chain II can be used on nearly every brand of pedestrian trencher.

Sprockets: The little things make the difference.

Excessive shock is a key factor in sprocket, teeth, and chain wear. Ditch Witch sprockets are unique in that they are hammer-forged and induction heat-treated, creating a harder surface that lasts longer and a softer core that better absorbs shock. The Ditch Witch manufacturing process is superior to that of many competitors, who cast their sprockets. This creates the possibility of impurities or air holes forming inside the sprocket, which can cause it to fail.

Ditch Witch sprockets also have longer teeth and are more tapered to fit the roller better, which helps both components last longer.

Maintenance: The three cardinal rules.
Your Ditch Witch dealer also offers ProLine digging systems designed specifically for more than 65 trencher models produced by other manufacturers such as Case,^® Vermeer,^® Bobcat,^® and Burkeen^®. But no matter what brand you use, always remember the three cardinal rules for digging systems:

1. Replace sprockets and digging chains at the same time—replacing one without the other will cause premature aging of both parts.
   
   
2. Replace worn digging teeth.
   
   
3. Maintain the proper tension on the digging chain—refer to your operator's manual for the correct tension.

Your local Ditch Witch dealer can help you determine the right digging chain and teeth configuration for your application. Whether it's a cup chain, Shark Chain, or an alligator chain, your dealer has the experience to help you determine what tool works best for you.

For a better understanding of the unique Ditch Witch manufacturing process, ask your dealer for a copy of a DVD on building superior-quality digging teeth, chains, and sprockets.

Published in the Spring 2006 issue of The Underground.