McConnel Power Arm 44 Sawhead Mk2 Operator’s Manual & Spare Parts Guide (1974)

McConnel Power Arm 44 Sawhead Mk2 – Operator's Instruction & Spare Parts Manual (January 1974)

This comprehensive PDF manual is an essential resource for anyone operating, maintaining, or repairing the McConnel Power Arm 44 with the Sawhead Mk2 attachment. Originally published in January 1974, it provides complete and authoritative information straight from the manufacturer – F.W. McConnel Ltd – on the correct use, fitting, safety, operation, and servicing of this powerful hedge-cutting attachment.

What this manual is for:

This manual covers the McConnel Power Arm 44 Sawhead Mk2, a hydraulically operated sawhead attachment designed for hedge cutting and light tree trimming, particularly when mounted to compatible agricultural tractors. The unit is a specialist extension to McConnel’s hedge cutting range and is designed to operate safely and efficiently from the tractor’s PTO system.

What you’ll learn from this manual:

• Installation Instructions: Detailed steps for fitting the sawhead to a Power Arm 44 frame and tractor, including positioning, linkage bracket requirements, hydraulic hose routing, and PTO pump installation.
• Operating Procedures: Instructions on how to adjust the blade pitch, recommended engine speeds for optimum cutting, safety precautions, geometry alignment, and transport positioning.
• Blade Maintenance: In-depth guidance on keeping the blade sharp, diagnosing cracks using tonal changes, and selecting the right blade for different cutting tasks (Slasher, Saw Tooth, or Scimitar types).
• Safety Guidelines: A full section devoted to operational safety, including dangerous practices to avoid and essential pre-cutting inspections to reduce the risk of injury or machine damage.
• Spare Parts Breakdown: A full illustrated guide to all replaceable parts on the Power Arm 44 Sawhead Mk2, including part numbers, component descriptions, quantities, and exploded diagrams for easy identification and ordering.

Who this manual is for:

This manual is indispensable for:

• Farmers and agricultural contractors using the Power Arm 44 to maintain hedgerows and overgrown boundaries.
• Mechanics and workshop technicians responsible for servicing and repairing McConnel equipment.
• Vintage equipment collectors and restorers looking to maintain operational authenticity.

Accessories, Attachments & Blade Variants Covered:

• Slasher Blade – For light growth up to 3" diameter. Offers a cleaner cut under certain conditions.
• Saw Toothed Blade – Heavy-duty blade for tougher growth, though McConnel advises a chainsaw for material over 6” in diameter.
• Scimitar Blade – Best suited to trimming 1–2 years of hedge growth. Ideal for lighter, more frequent maintenance work.
• Sawhead Control Valve – Installation and routing explained in detail.
• Hydraulic Motor and Gearbox Assembly – Maintenance, component replacements, and torque chain settings.
• Protective Guard and Mounting Bracket – Placement is critical to ensure safety and prevent debris from injuring the operator.

Operating Conditions & Tips:

The manual provides important instructions for working on uneven terrain, with advice such as removing the feet when ground clearance is minimal and only using the extreme right-hand offset position when operating the sawhead to allow for proper guard placement. There are also operator efficiency tips for reducing load on the engine, working with dense growth, and cutting in a safe, methodical manner to avoid overheating or damaging components.

Specific Models & Compatibility:

This manual is specifically intended for the McConnel Power Arm 44 fitted with the Sawhead Mk2. Key compatible components and assemblies are referenced throughout, including:

• Sawhead Arm Assembly with Gearbox
• PTO Gearbox/Pump Assembly
• Hy-Fi Linkage System
• Tractors with live PTO shafts and compatibility with high-offset sawhead mounting

Spare Parts Catalogue (Included):

A detailed spare parts section includes diagrams and full listings for:

• Hydraulic motors and gearbox units
• Blade mounting hardware (including safety spirolox rings, nuts, and bolts)
• Pipes, couplings, and hydraulic connectors
• Guards, brackets, and fittings

The parts list uses McConnel's original dot system to help identify assemblies and sub-assemblies clearly.

Important Maintenance Instructions:

Blade sharpening schedules, weight balancing procedures for paired cutters, angle recommendations for specific tooth profiles, and exact measurements for gulleting and tooth set are all included. This level of detail is crucial for maintaining cutting performance and ensuring the longevity of your equipment.

Why This Manual Matters:

Operating a McConnel Power Arm 44 with a Sawhead Mk2 without the correct setup and safety knowledge can lead to serious injury or equipment damage. This manual ensures that you have the manufacturer’s exact instructions at your fingertips, offering decades-old insight that modern manuals may no longer include. Whether you’re restoring vintage agricultural machinery or still using this reliable tool on your farm, this manual is a non-negotiable asset.

This is a scanned PDF copy of the original manual. It will be delivered instantly by email after purchase. No physical item will be shipped.