When a cow puts her head into The Protector she pushes the door in, which opens a magnetic switch. This starts the electronic board counting down to spray time (4 to 5 seconds). When the count down is complete the electronic board will turn on the 12 volt electric pump for ¾ second and sprays 7 to 10 cc of insecticide on the back of the cow. The Protector will not spray again until the cow backs out and the door closes for 5 seconds. Then it resets itself and is ready for another shot of spray. We built a time delay sequence into the spraying operation so that the cattle will not stand at The Protector and bump the door just to get a cool shot of spray on their backs.
Where to locate The Protector
Put The Protector where the cattle spend most of their time. Hang from a tree limb that is at least 3" in diameter and at least 5' out from truck of the tree. The Protector can also be hung in a barn or loafing shed from any suitable overhead support if it will receive enough light to charge battery. Or The Protector can be hung from a portable stand to allow movement from pasture to pasture. We use one called The Tow Tree that can be moved with an ATV or tractor when we move cattle. (Click Here to see plans for the Tow Tree!)
How to position The Protector
The Protector should be hung so the spray nozzle is 4 to 8 inches higher than the backs of the cattle that are using the feeder. A good way to get the barrel to the right height is to place The Protector in the back of your pick-up truck and back under the limb that will be used. This is a good way to refill your feeders also; turn the switch off, set The Protector on the tailgate and put in the mineral and spray mix.
When to use The Protector
The day that you receive The Protector, turn the switch off and let your cattle use it as a mineral feeder only for 3 to 5 days. This will help them to get used to the swinging mineral feeder. Be sure The Protector is the only source of mineral or salt available for your cattle. Why would they use a new, strange feeder if they had their old familiar feeder available? Fill the 6 quart tank with water and 1 to 2 oz. of fly spray concentrate. Then, turn the switch to the right, which is the ON position and cycle until spray comes out.
Spray Mix
The Protector in made for a Water Mix insecticide in the spray tank. Do not use a diesel or oil mix. It will not be necessary because the cattle will be treated every time they eat mineral. You can use most fly spray concentrates that have the letters E.C. behind their name (E.C. means they will mix with water)..
The Protector spray tank holds 6 quarts. One to two ounces of spray concentrate is usually enough per 6 qts. of water. Follow label mixing directions for high pressure spraying
For Winter Storage
Wait until the mineral/feed is gone and the spray tank is empty. Rinse the tank and spray system a couple of times with clean water. Put in 1 cup of a 50-50 anti-freeze solution and cycle the Pump 5 times, then turn switch off. Use The Protector as a mineral feeder in the winter and the solar panel will keep the battery charged.
DO NOT bring this unit inside during the winter because the battery will completely discharge without sunlight and you will need to purchase a new battery.
To remove the door, take a screwdriver and place it against the head of the hinge pin on the right side of the hinge and drive it out to the right.
Keep all wires tucked or taped back out of the reach of a cow's tongue.
Check the 9/16 nuts on the top and front of the barrel for tightness once in a while.
VERY IMPORTANT!!! You can put just about any fly insecticide in The Protector as long as it mixes with water. They all work, but you need to switch brand names approximately very 6 to 8 weeks. Flies will build up a resistance to even the most effective insecticide over a period of time. After giving your favorite fly spray a rest for 6 to 8 weeks you can put it back in The Protector and be amazed at the "new" effectiveness of your "old" favorite.
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Always approach The Protector Mineral Feeder with Caution! Consider The Protector ARMED and DANGEROUS…a shot of fly spray in the face is not a pleasant experience. Always approach The Protector from the side and reach in and turn the switch off before servicing your feeder.
It is a good idea to hang, in the same tree, a gallon jug of water to flush your eyes with in case of accidental spraying
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More Information Page |
Part Replacement Instructions |
Parts List |
Troubleshooting |
Tow Tree Assembly Instructions
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