So I randomely received a box of parts from DR for my chipper. I think it is a weird way to handle a recall but it was easy to do and still way better than the last brand I tried.
They changed the way the hammer rods are held to the machine. Rather than a retaining ring, they now use a collar/clamp with a bolt through the shaft. I completely understand the change and feel much safer using the machine.
If by some chance you find this before you do your re call, here are some tips.
1. Read the instructions all the way through at least once before starting.
2. You will not be reusing the retaining clamps so it does not matter how you remove them. You will need a .023 tip for removers with a fairly wide opening. I had the .023 but they did not open wide enough. I ended up getting a large screwdriver in there and forcing it out.
3. You do not need to remove the top plate all the way, just one bolt removed and swing it up out of the way.
4. Be sure you reposition the access window cover and retighten it before closing the screen and top panels. You can reach it with a wrench though the screen but definitely not with the top panel closed.
5. Double check that you have tightened all of your bolts before finishing up! Also be careful you do not strip out the lock nuts if you are using power tools. (did not happen to me)
The only concern I have is that the new bolts on the shafts become gunk'd up or marred making it hard to remove them when I need to do maintenance to the hammers to in the future.
Here are some before and after pics along with pictures of the new parts. It takes very little mechanical ability to do this recall so relax, take your time, and get it done.
Replaced all 4 shafts in no time at all. Put it back together and chipped up some brush. Worked great!
