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COMPATIBILITY PRODUCT SPECS AND DURABILITY HOW TO USE USES OF THE GROUNDHOG MAX HOW IT WORKS HOW TO PLOW TROUBLESHOOTING CUSTOMER SERVICE SHOW ALL

Will the plow work on my 2WD ATV/UTV?

The plow will work on most 2x4 ATVs, but you cannot plow as aggressively due to traction loss. Many plow in 2x4 for easier steering.

How well is the GroundHog MAX made?

The product is made with high intensity heavy gauge steel. Each disc has its own high-speed double-sealed, deep groove bearings. The discs are installed with anti-slide bolts and nuts for easy replacement of bearings if necessary. All bearings are the same size. Discs are mounted on a ¾” axle. This axle is then encased in a 1” steel pipe. This creates a closed system that does not require greasing. The GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow does not have ratchets. There are no tires to go flat and dry rot. It is practically maintenance free.

Does the receiver hitch have to be perfectly level and centered?

No. However, get as close to level and centered as possible.

What are the average GroundHog MAX plowing speeds?

According to the food plot layout and its size and shape, GroundHog MAX plowing speeds range from 3-10 mph. These are twice as fast as a pull-behind type plow. Unlike a pull-behind plow, you never have to go to the trouble of adding/strapping on more weight or worrying about the plow tipping over. Pull behinds also put a lot of stress on your machine and it may overheat.

How long does it take to plow a plot?

Time will be determined by the size of the plot and how hard the ground is (roots, rocks, grass systems, wet/dry, and ground clutter). The tougher the conditions, the more passes you have to make (virgin ground verses already been plowed etc). Plow in looping circles and figure eights because a lot of the cut is in turning and maneuverability. Keep in mind that the gap between the middle discs will go away if you plow in this manner. Plowing straight also works If you determine you are not using enough weight, adjust the T-head down a hole.

Why is the plow not wider?

Our tests found this was the optimal size/disc design to cut the ground with heavy grasses, roots, rocks, sticks, and such. It needed to fit between the 2 rear tires for “direct down pressure”. This size setup does not overly affect steering/strain on your machine. Being able to use more weight and having less steel on the ground is what makes it cut and handle so well. With its size your plowing speeds are much faster than with a wider pull-behind type.

Why is my GroundHog MAX not working correctly?

Be advised that this plow does actually work as you see in our videos but some of us do not pay attention to directions and/or we do it our own way. Here are common reasons why the plow does not work as aggressively as you expect. For more information see our Troubleshooting section under Owners.

Please call so we can help you if you are experiencing issues!

#1 Reason – The plow is installed backwards – the chevron (arrowhead) point of the disc assembly should point away from the back of the machine.

Action: If it drags rather than cutting, check this.

#2 Reason- Installed on a hitch that allows the plow to lean backwards instead of the plow standing up straight.

Action: Brace hitch or plow less aggressive.

#3 Reason- Instead of backing up on a 4" ramp/block to get the rear wheels up (this is a good rule of thumb), your buddies pick up the back of the machine while you hook the plow up. NOTE: All this does is stretch out your suspension and shocks and does not get proper weight on the plow.

Action: Back up on 4" ramp/block, let it down until it almost touches the ground, re-pin, then back off block.

#4 Reason - You installed the plow horizontally instead of vertically.

Action: Install properly.

Will the plow work on smaller cc machines that are only air-cooled?

Yes. This is a big benefit really of the plow. Since there is a lot less strain on your ATV/UTV and your are plowing at speeds of 4-7 mph air-cooled machines stay cooler. Remember the normal pull behind plow requires a 400 CC liquid cooled or larger (if you read their fine print). On any machine start off less aggressive the first time you plow.

Will the GroundHog MAX work on both independent rear suspension and straight axle ATVs?

Yes. We have tested it on both.

Can I use the plow if my ATV/UTV has a strong or aftermarket 2 inch receiver?

Yes. The plow is all you need.

Can I use the plow if my ATV/UTV only has a factory utility hole or just has a lightweight 1 ¼” hitch receiver?

Yes. Many make and model ATVs and UTVs can use our receiver hitch kit. There are also receivers that can be ordered specific to vehicles year/make/model.

A) You can buy a strong, square, forward bolted, after-market 2" receiver online to strengthen your existing setup (basically all manufacturer models newer than 2000). There are some exceptions.

There are many links to buy your receiver hitch that are year, make, and model specific for your machine (ie: atvhitchreceivers.com, strongmade.com, leedengineering.com) Once you have one of these hitches…the plow is all you need. It becomes “Plug and Plow.” You would buy the NO KIT included version of the plow.

B) Here is another option for most years, makes, and models of Hondas and Polaris, some Can Am and some Bombardier. The GroundHog MAX is also available with a hitch receiver kit included in the box. This kit allows you to convert and upgrade many existing (utility holes or weak 1 1/4" hitches) over to a strong forward bolted type hitch receiver. This Kit includes both a 21" long and a 5" long collared hitch receiver tube and other hardware.

C) Note: Older than 2000 models may have to do some fabrication to your hitch setup. Our hitch does work on some of these or it can be used for the fabrication.

How do I use the up/down adjustment tube to adjust the weight on the plow?

The adjustment holes are in 1” increments. A good rule of thumb is, if you back your ATV up on a 4” x 4” block (to get your rear wheels up), let the plow come down and touch the ground. Then pull the plow upwards one hole and put your tractor pin in. Back off the 4” x 4” block and plow. You do not have to be too aggressive because a lot of the cutting is in the turns. That’s why we recommend looping circles and figure eights if you can.

How does the GroundHog MAX Work?

Downward Pressue Is The Key.

The Groundhog MAX works by using the weight of the ATV and the driver. This achieves direct down pressure on the plow. The plow is setup of an inner 10-9-8" notched disc with high speed bearings. This allows you to cut hard ground, grass, and ground clutter with ease.

Easy In, Easy Out.

Once you arrive to your location, simply back the ATV up on a 4" ramp, take one tractor pin out, and flip the plow over to the plowing position. Once you have the plow in the correct position you can begin working on creating the perfect food plot.

The Plow is Sold Two Different Ways.

It comes fully assembled either way. Replacement parts are available. The GroundHog MAX works on both independent or straight axle set-ups. It also works on two wheel drive models, but may not be as aggressive. Depending on the ground clearance you need you can adjust the plow in 1" increments

The plow will fit most ATVs, 4-wheelers, Quads, Wheelers, Side-By-Sides, and UTVs.

How do I plow with the GroundHog MAX?

After you have purchased your GroundHog MAX your next step is to find the best place on your land to develop a food plot. There are many factors that should go into the process of deciding exactly where to place your food plot.

First, you need a clear area in order to plant your food. Luckily with the GHM you can get to any remote location that your ATV can reach. As you read the plant it section it goes more in depth regarding what soil levels should be. So first you need to find an open area and check your soils pH levels and also see how much sunlight that area gets. Knowing these types of things will ensure that your plant species can prosper and attract the wildlife you desire.

As well as having good soil, one needs good coverage specifically for deer. Along fence rows and having wood edge is great. This way the animals feel as if they can “take cover” easily and get out of the “open field” area quickly if need to. Therefore, they are more likely to come into the food plot if they feel they have a secure area surrounding them. Most food plots should be around 1/4 of an acre. Also, you will want to stay away from roads and other people’s property lines to avoid other hunters to be tempted to come onto your land and use your food plot.

The last thing you should look at are existing travel patterns of the deer in your area. Not to say that if you do not place your food plot in an area that the deer travel that they won’t come, but if your food plot is in an area that the game you are hunting already travel then even better. The chance of them finding your food plot and utilizing it more quickly is greater.

Now it's time to put the GroundHog MAX ATV plow to work for you!

After you have found the perfect location and have traveled to it with your GHM in "travel mode" on the back of your ATV, you need to put it into "work" mode.

Back your ATV/UTV up on a 4" ramp. This can be on a log or a lower area of ground.
Take the one tractor pin out and flip the plow over in the "plowing position."
Put the pin back in once you have your plow at the desired height.*
Start plowing with your GroundHog MAX!

*Note: A good rule of thumb on plow depth adjustment is to let the plow down to touch the ground, and then move it back up 2 holes before you re-pin. Rembember you only need part of the machine's weight to plow effectively, especially with heavy ATVs and UTVs.

If this is a food plot that you have never plowed before, you may want to round up before using it although this is not necessary. Also, plowing in figure 8 techniques works great. Be aggressive if you have a 4 wheel drive ATV and really get after plowing up the land. Once you have it plowed up you can now begin the planting section.

What are the GroundHog Max specifications?

The product weighs 46 lbs. and is made with high intensity heavy gauge ¼ wall steel. Each disc has its own replaceable high-speed double-sealed, deep grooved bearings. The discs are installed with anti-slide bolts and nuts for easy replacement of bearings if necessary. All bearings are the same size. Discs are mounted on a ¾ inch axle. This axle is then encased in a glove-fit 1 inch steel pipe. This creates a closed system that does not require greasing. The GroundHog MAX ATV / UTV Disc Plow does not have ratchets. There are no tires to dry rot and go flat. It is practically maintenance free.

Shipping Weight - GroundHog MAX (with Hitch Kit) - 69lbs
Shipping Weight - GroundHog MAX (without Hitch Kit) - 46lbs
(2) Outside 8” High Strength 1060 Grade Notched Disc Blades
(2) Middle 9” High Strength 1060 Grade Notched Disc Blades
(2) Inside 10” High Strength 1060 Grade Notched Disc Blades
¾“ Round, Stress Proof
High-Speed (Double Sealed, Deep Groove) Ball Bearing (Bolted on to Disc with Anti-Slide Bolts)
Heavy 2” Steel Tube Adjustable Frame

1. This fully assembled product weighs 46 lbs. and is made with high intensity heavy 10 gauge wall steel.

2. Each disc has its own easy to replace, high-speed, double-sealed, deeply grooved ball bearings with a trash guard.

3. The discs have anti-slide bolts and nuts for easy replacement of bearings.

4. Graduated notched discs sizes are 8”, 9”, or 10” but all bearings are the same size. This assembly was the most

aggressive setup for cutting virgin ground.

5. Discs are mounted on a ¾” steel axle.

6. Between each of the disc blades the axle itself is encased in a glove-fit 1-inch steel pipe. This creates a closed

system that does not require greasing.

7. There are no ratchets to mess with and no tires to dry rot and go flat.

8. Adjustable height control, in 1" increments on the T-Head allows you to use it on machines with either low or high

ground clearance.

9. A 2” square hitch receiver is required. It can be purchased with a hitch kit included in the box (for Honda and

Polaris mostly), or it can be purchased without a hitch kit included at a lower cost. You would then buy an aftermarket

hitch kit for your specific machine.

10. Comes with a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty.

11. The plow is basically maintenance free. After use, wipe off and spray down with WD-40 or similar product.

12. Works with 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive. Works on lower CC "air cooled only" machines. You are plowing 4-7 mph so

a smaller CC machine stays cool. The strain on the machine is far less than with a pull behind plow.

13. Works with independent rear suspension or straight axle setups.

14. Direct, belt, or chain drive machines can work.

15. When new, the disc blades may not turn freely. After some use they will spin properly, but they do not free spin like a

bike wheel.

16. If you want to keep your ball hitch while using the Groundhog receiver tube, buy a Reese-type hitch in 1 ¼” to slide in

the tractor pin. It is a loose fit but as long as it has weight applied it will not rattle and works fine.

Does the receiver hitch assembly have to be level and centered?

No. However, get as close to level and centered as possible.

If I use the receiver hitch assembly can I still use my trailer ball and leave the receiver on permanently?

Yes. After market Reese-type ball adapters are available.

Can I use reverse with the plow engaged?

Yes, but it won’t plow as well going forward. Reverse gives you the maneuverability to plow in tight places like pulpwood roads, firebreaks, and between pine rows. Only use reverse if necessary, as it puts more stress on your hitch.

Does it work on hard, rocky, and / or rough ground?

Yes. If your terrain is “difficult” the plow will work. It just takes more passes. The plow works well on hard, dry, rocky, grassy or any combination terrain. For best results plow in a combination of oblong circles, figure eights, and straight rows back and forth.

Does the plow work in wet bottomland?

Yes. The plow will not bog down like a typical pull behind plow. The ATV controls the plowing depth. Remember the old saying, “Too wet to plow?” Certain soil types may clog the discs when wet. However, if your vehicle can go through it the plow can plow it. If clogged, see our DIY fix under Troubleshooting.

Is the product just for food plots?

No. In addition to food plots the plow is used for landscaping, preparing and maintaining fire breaks and weed control, grooming horse arenas and dirt tracks. If you need to till the ground the plow will do it. In many cases it can be used to replace a tractor, especially for smaller jobs.

Can I leave the plow on my ATV / UTV while driving to my food plot site?

Yes, in most instances. We call this feature “transport mode.” However, every ATV/UTV is a little different. Here are some general guidelines: On some vehicles you simply flip the plow upside down and secure it in position with the tractor pin. On some vehicles flip the plow upside down, and adjust the plow head up or down until it clears the back of the vehicle by removing and replacing the tractor pin. Then simply secure it in position with the tractor pin. On a few machines you may not be able to use transport position due to the design of the rear end.

How do I reach you at GroundHog MAX?

1 Bad Boy Blvd.

Batesville, AR 72501

Toll Free - 800-566-1691

Fax - 870-307-6799

Tech Support - 877-522-3367 or 701-713-0202

Replacement Parts - 877-522-3364

Email - keithf@baddawgaccessories.com

Does the GroundHog MAX have a warranty?

Yes! Here is our warranty.

GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories warrants this product to be free from defect in material and workmanship.

Except as otherwise set forth below, the duration of this Warranty shall be for NINETY (90) DAYS COMMENCING ON THE DATE OF DELIVERY OF THE PRODUCT TO THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER.

Under no circumstances will this warranty apply in the event that the product, in good faith opinion of GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories, has been subjected to improper operation, improper maintenance, misuse, or an accident. This warranty does not apply in the event that the product has been materially modified or repaired by someone other than GroundHog ATV/UTV Disc Plow or Bad Dawg Accessories. The Warranty does not cover normal wear or tear, or normal maintenance items. This warranty also does not cover repairs made with parts other than those obtained through GroundHog ATV/UTV Disc Plow or Bad Dawg Accessories This Warranty is extended solely to the original purchaser of the product. Should the original purchaser sell or otherwise transfer this product to a third party, this Warranty does not transfer to the third party purchaser in any way. There are no third party beneficiaries of this Warranty.

GroundHog ATV/UTV Disc Plow or Bad Dawg Accessories makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect on any parts or accessories not manufactured ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories Warranties for these items, if any, are provided separately by their respective manufacturers. GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories obligation under this Warranty is limited to, at GroundHog ATV/UTV Disc Plow or Bad Dawg Accessories option, the repair or replacement, free of charge, of the product if GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories, in its sole discretion, deems it to be defective or in noncompliance with this Warranty. Such parts shall be provided by the selling dealer to the user during regular working hours.

If requested, the product must be returned to GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories with proof of purchase within thirty (30) days after such defect or noncompliance is discovered or should have been discovered, routed through the dealer and distributor from whom the purchase was made, transportation charges prepaid. GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories shall complete such repair or replacement within a reasonable time after GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories receives the product.

THERE ARE NO OTHER REMEDIES UNDER THIS WARRANTY. THE REMEDY OF REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY UNDER THIS WARRANTY.

GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories shall not be liable for any incident or consequential losses, damages or expenses, arising directly or indirectly from the product, whether such claim is based upon breach of contract, breach of warranty, negligence, strict liability in tort or any other legal theory. GroundHog ATV/UTV Disc Plow or Bad Dawg Accessories obligation under this warranty, to the extent allowed by law, is in lieu of all warranties, implied or expressed for a particular purpose and any liability for incidental and consequential damages with respect to the sale or use of the items warranted. Such incidental and consequential damages shall include but not be limited to: transportation charges other than normal freight charges; loss of crops or any other loss of income; rental of substitute equipment, expenses due to loss, damage, detention or delay in the delivery of equipment or parts resulting from acts beyond the control of GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories.

This Warranty is subject to any existing conditions of supply that may directly affect GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories ability to obtain materials or manufacture replacement parts.

This warranty is subject to the warranty registration being submitted. For warranty services, contact GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories 800-566-1691 or 877-522-3364.

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We also offer a

Warranty for Parts

GroundHog MAX by GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories warrants its parts to be free from defect in material and workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of delivery of the part(s) to the original purchaser.

Replacement or repair parts installed in the equipment covered by warranty are warranted for ninety (90) days from date of purchase of such part or to the expiration of the applicable new equipment warranty period, which- ever occurs later.

Under no circumstances will this warranty apply in the event that the parts, in good faith opinion of GroundHog MAX by GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories, has been subjected to improper operation, improper maintenance, misuse, or an accident. This warranty does not apply in the event that the product has been materially modified or repaired by someone other than GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories. The Warranty does not cover normal wear or tear, or normal maintenance items. This warranty also does not cover repairs made with parts other than those obtained through GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad

Dawg Accessories. This Warranty is extended solely to the original purchaser of the product. Should the original purchaser sell or otherwise transfer this product to a third party, this Warranty does not transfer to a third party purchaser in any way. There are no third party beneficiaries of this Warranty.

Our obligation under this Warranty is limited to, at GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories option, the repair or replacement, free of charge, of the product if GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories, in its sole discretion, deems it to be defective or in noncompliance with this Warranty. The selling dealer shall provide such parts to the user during regular working hours. If requested, the product must be returned to GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories with proof of purchase within thirty (30) days after such defect or noncompliance is discovered or should have been discovered, routed through the dealer and distributor from whom the purchase was made, transportation charges prepaid.

GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories shall complete such repair or replacement within a reasonable time after GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories receives the product. THERE ARE NO OTHER REMEDIES UNDER THIS WARRANTY. THE REMEDY OF REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY UNDER THIS WARRANTY. THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE DESCRIPTION ON THE FACE OF THIS WARRANTY.

GroundHog MAX ATV / UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential losses, damages or expenses, arising directly or indirectly from the product, whether such claim is based upon breach of contract, breach of warranty, negligence, strict liability in tort or any other legal theory. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, GroundHog MAX ATV/UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories specifically disclaims any damages relating to (i) lost profits, business, revenues or goodwill; (ii) loss of crops; (iii) loss because of delay in harvesting; (iv) any expense or loss incurred for labor, supplies, substitute machinery or rental; or (v) any

other type of damage to property or economic loss.

This Warranty is subject to any existing conditions of supply that may directly affect GroundHog MAX ATV / UTV Disc Plow and Bad Dawg Accessories ability to obtain materials or manufacture replacement parts. This warranty is subject to the warranty registration being submitted.

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