D10x15III Navigator®

Horizontal Directional Drill

Operator’s Manual

EN_o1_11_original instructions
Publish date 2024-07-31
Serial no. 96–99, 101 -
Order no. 105400DD4
Cabled assembly no. 296404083
Introduction
This manual explains the proper operation of your machine. Study and understand these instructions thoroughly before operating or
maintaining the machine. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage. Consult your Vermeer dealer if you
do not understand the instructions in this manual or need additional information.
The instructions, illustrations, and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at time of publication.
Your machine may have product improvements and features not yet contained in this manual.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice or obligation.
Operation instructions are included in the two Operator’s Manuals provided with the machine. The tethered (cabled)
manual must remain attached to the machine for ready reference. Store it in the manual storage box when not in use.
Lubrication and maintenance procedures are in the Maintenance Manual provided with the machine. Refer to it for all
lubrication and maintenance procedures.
Additional copies of the manuals and operations and safety video are available from your dealer. Use the reorder numbers listed on
the front covers of the manuals and on the video.
Copies of this manual and the operations and safety video are available in Spanish from your dealer. Other languages may also be
available.
Su distribuidor dispone de ejemplares en español de este manual y del vídeo de operaciones y seguridad.

Notice to Owner
Replacement manuals are free of charge by registering your used Vermeer machine. Your machine’s Operator’s, Maintenance, and
Parts Manuals may be available online at www.myvermeer.com. For questions about online or printed manuals, or to register a used
machine, contact the data analytics department by telephone: 800-829-0051 or 641-628-3141; email: [email protected];
internet: www.vermeer.com or www.myvermeer.com; or, letter: Data analytics department, Vermeer Corporation, P.O. Box 200, Pella,
IA 50219 USA.

Introduction D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Front

Rear

Orientation: Right and left sides of the machine are determined by facing the vises while seated at the controls.

Trademarks
Vermeer, the Vermeer logo, Equipped to Do More, Navigator, Armor, and QuickFire are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in
the U.S. and/or other countries.
Digitrak and Aurora are trademarks of Digital Controls, Inc.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Introduction

Vermeer new industrial equipment limited warranty
Effective November 1, 2021 Warranty period: 12 months / 1000 hours
Vermeer Corporation (hereinafter "Vermeer") warrants each new Industrial product of Vermeer's manufacture to be free from defects
in material and workmanship, under normal use and service for one (1) full year after initial purchase/retail sale or 1000 operating
hours, whichever occurs first. This Limited Warranty shall apply only to complete machines of Vermeer's manufacture, parts are
covered by a separate Limited Warranty. EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES NOT OF VERMEER'S MANUFACTURE ARE
WARRANTED ONLY TO THE EXTENT OF THE ORIGINAL MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY AND SUBJECT TO
THEIR ALLOWANCE TO VERMEER ONLY IF FOUND DEFECTIVE BY SUCH MANUFACTURER.
EXTENDED WARRANTY OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE
WARRANTY TERMS During the Limited Warranty period specified above, any defect in material or workmanship in any
warranted item of Vermeer Industrial Equipment not excluded below shall be repaired or replaced at Vermeer’s option without
charge by any authorized independent Vermeer dealer. The warranty repair or replacement must be made by a Vermeer independent
authorized dealer at the dealer’s location. Vermeer will pay for replacement parts and such authorized dealer’s labor in accordance
with Vermeer’s labor reimbursement policy. Vermeer reserves the right to supply remanufactured replacement parts as it deems
appropriate.
RETAIL PURCHASER RESPONSIBILITY: This Limited Warranty requires proper maintenance and periodic inspections of the
Industrial Equipment as indicated in the Operator’s/Maintenance Manual furnished with each new Industrial Equipment. The cost
of routine or required maintenance and services is the responsibility of the retail purchaser. The retail purchaser is required to keep
documented evidence that these services were performed. This Vermeer New Industrial Equipment Limited Warranty may be
subject to cancellation if the above requirements are not performed. Vermeer Industrial Equipment with known failed or defective
parts must be immediately removed from service.

Introduction D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Exclusions and limitations
The warranties contained herein shall NOT APPLY TO:
(1) Any defect which was caused (in Vermeer’s sole judgment) by other than normal use and service of the Industrial Equipment,
or by any of the following; (i) accident (ii) misuse or negligence (iii) overloading (iv) lack of reasonable and proper maintenance
(v) improper repair or installation (vi) unsuitable storage (vii) non-Vermeer approved alteration or modification (viii) natural
calamities (ix) vandalism (x) parts or accessories installed on Industrial Equipment which were not manufactured or installed
by Vermeer authorized dealers (xi) the elements (xii) collision or other accident.
(2) Any Industrial Equipment whose identification numbers or marks have been altered or removed or whose hour meter has
been altered or tampered with.
(3) Any Industrial Equipment which any of the required or recommended periodic inspection or services have been performed
using parts not manufactured or supplied by Vermeer or meeting Vermeer Specifications including, but without limitation,
engine tune-up parts, engine oil filters, air filters, hydraulic oil filters, and fuel filters.
(4) New Industrial Equipment delivered to the retail purchaser in which the equipment/warranty registration has not been
completed and returned to Vermeer within ten (10) days from the date of purchase.
(5) Any defect which was caused (in Vermeer’s sole judgment) by operation of the Industrial Equipment not abiding by standard
operating procedures outlined in the Operator’s Manual.
(6) Engine, battery, and tire Limited Warranties and support are the responsibility of the respective product’s manufacturer.
(7) Transportation costs, if any, of transporting to the Vermeer dealer. Freight costs, if any, of transporting replacement parts to
the Vermeer dealer.
(8) The travel time of the Vermeer dealer’s service personnel to make a repair on the retail purchaser’s site or other location.
(9) In no event shall Vermeer’s liability exceed the purchase price of the product,
(10) Vermeer shall not be liable to any person under any circumstances for any incidental or consequential damages (including but
not limited to, loss of profits, out of service time) occurring for any reason at any time.
(11) Diagnostic and overtime labor premiums are not covered under this Limited Warranty Policy. Oils and fluids are not covered
under this Limited Warranty.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Introduction

 (12) Depreciation damage caused by normal wear, lack of reasonable and proper maintenance, failure to follow operating
instructions, misuse, lack of proper protection during storage.
(13) Accessory systems and electronics not of Vermeer’s manufacture are warranted only to the extent of such manufacturer’s
respective Limited Warranty if any.
(14) Down hole toolage is not covered under this warranty.
(15) Wear items which are listed below:
Antenna, augers, base plates, bearing seals, bearings, belts, brake pads, brushes, bolts/torqued parts, boom wear items, booms, brake
pads, bushings, buckets, cable fingers, chain, clamping vise parts, clutches, clutch components, conveyor belts, cups, curtains, cutter
wheels, dies, digging chain, digging rims, discharge conveyor belts, drive chuck, drums, earth stakes, end idler, end rollers, fan belts,
flails, flashings, hammers, hoses, infeed conveyor belts, infeed conveyor chains, jaws, knives, leaf chain, lights, lights on light kits,
liners, outer drum bearings, packing assemblies, pins and bushings, pins and pivot points, piston cups, pivot rings, plastic wear
strips, plow blades, plungers, pockets, rods, rollers, rod loader parts, rooter bands, rotor plates, rubber grouser bars, rubber or plastic
items, rubber tracks, rubber track bands, rubber shielding, scraper knives, screens, seals, service items, shear bar/bedknife, skid
shoes, sprockets, teeth, tips, tip mounts, tires, thrust wheels, tooling, track chain, track guides, track idlers, track pads, track rollers,
track sprockets, trench cleaner (crumber), trip cleaners, trommel brushes, trommel screen panels, trunnion and pivot points, valves,
valve seats, water hoses, water swivels, wear bars, wear blocks, wear plates, wear strips, wheels, winch cable, windshield wiper
parts.
Parts warranty:
Parts replaced in the warranty period will receive the balance of the first year New Industrial Equipment Limited Warranty, during
the first (12) months or 1000 hours, whichever comes first. Replacement parts after the original machine warranty, are warranted to
be free from defects of material for ninety (90) days or the part will be repaired or replaced, without labor coverage for removal and
reinstallation.

Introduction D10x15III Operator’s Manual

EXCLUSIONS OF WARRANTIES: EXCEPT FOR THE WARRANTIES EXPRESSLY AND SPECIFICALLY MADE
HEREIN, VERMEER MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, AND ANY POSSIBLE LIABILITY OF VERMEER
HEREINUNDER IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
VERMEER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, ALTER AND IMPROVE ANY PRODUCT WITHOUT INCURRING ANY
OBLIGATION TO REPLACE ANY PRODUCT PREVIOUSLY SOLD WITH SUCH MODIFICATION. NO PERSON IS
AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY OTHER WARRANTY, OR TO ASSUME ANY ADDITIONAL OBLIGATION on VERMEER’S
BEHALF.
NO DEALER WARRANTY. The selling dealer makes no warranty of its own and the dealer has no authority to make any
representation or promise on behalf of Vermeer or to modify the terms or limitations of this warranty in any way.
ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES. Each of the parties hereto expressly agrees to conduct transactions by electronic means. Accord-
ingly, the parties agree and intend that all electronic transmissions including, without limitation, electronic signatures, shall be
considered equivalent to an original writing as provided under Iowa law, as it may be amended from time to time.

Manufactured by:
Vermeer Corporation
1210 Vermeer Road East, P.O. Box 200
Pella, Iowa 50219-0200 USA

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Introduction

Vermeer equipment limited warranty rider
RACK GEARS AND PINION GEARS
(Parts only coverage during extended term)
Vermeer Corporation (hereinafter “Vermeer”) agrees to extend only the parts coverage of the applicable Vermeer Industrial New
Equipment Limited Warranty (the “Standard Limited Warranty”) for the covered components of the specified models of new Vermeer
industrial equipment for the lifetime* of the equipment provided that such equipment is operated and maintained in accordance
with the directions and instructions set forth in the operator's and maintenance manuals. All conditions, exclusions, and limitations
of the Standard Limited Warranty apply.
Specified Models . . . . . . . . . . . Serial Numbers of Included Units
D7x11 Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464 and above D36x50 Series II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 and above
D8x12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D36x50DR Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D9x13 Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D40x55 Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D9x13 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D40x55DR Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D10x15 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D60x90 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D16x20 Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D60x90 Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D16x20 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D80x100 Series II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 and above
D20x22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 and above D100x120 Series II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 and above
D20x22 Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D100x140 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D20x22 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D100x140 Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above
D20x22FX Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D200x300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 and above
D23x30 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D220x300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 and above
D23x30DR Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D220x300 Series III . . . . . . . . . . . . 1001 and above
D24x40 Series II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281 and above D300x500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 and above
D24x40 Series III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above D330x500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 and above

Covered Equipment: . . . . All rack gears and pinion gears. (Excludes carriage, carriage rollers, and guide rollers)
Extended Term*: . . . . . . . Lifetime of equipment. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser only. It is not transferable.
EXCEPT FOR THE STANDARD LIMITED WARRANTY AND THIS RIDER, VERMEER MAKES NO OTHER
WARRANTIES, AND ANY POSSIBLE LIABILITY OF VERMEER HEREUNDER IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABLILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Introduction D10x15III Operator’s Manual
Telematics equipment notice and consent
This machine may be equipped with Vermeer GPS tracking equipment that collects and transmits data about the machine’s
performance and location. This data is collected by Vermeer and held, used and shared consistently with the terms of the Vermeer
Privacy Policy and any applicable provisions of the End User License Agreement (“EULA”) which may be found at: http://
www2.vermeer.com/vermeer/NA/en/N/privacy and http://telematics.vermeer.com.
Machine owner and designated representatives (“subscribers”) may access the data through a subscription based website called
Vermeer Telematics (formerly known as Vermeer Fleet/Fleet Edge). Use of Vermeer Telematics is subject to the subscriber’s
acceptance of the terms and conditions of use and payment of any applicable subscription or license fees. If you are a current
subscriber, you may obtain a copy of the currently effective terms and conditions through your login or by contacting
[email protected].
More information about Vermeer Telematics may be found at: http://store.vermeer.com.
Machine owner may opt-out of the telematics service and collection of data by Vermeer Telematics at any time by contacting your
Vermeer dealer or [email protected].

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Introduction

EC Declaration of Conformity
Vermeer machines manufactured to comply with European Union directive 2006/42/EC include a complete EC Declaration of
Conformity. Refer to it for details of all applicable directives. The following information is from an EC Declaration of Conformity and
only applies to machines that were originally marked CE and have not been modified.
We, Vermeer Manufacturing Company, declare under our sole responsibility that the product to which this declaration relates is
in conformity with all relevant provisions of Directives 2000/14/EC, 2002/44/EC, 2014/30/EU, 2006/42/EC and EU 2016/1628.
Machine Type: Horizontal Directional Drill
Model: D10X15III
Net Installed Power: 45 kW
Representative Measured Sound Power Level: 104 dB(A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 105 dB(A)

A technical file is maintained by the manufacturer at: The person authorized to compile the technical file and who is located
Vermeer Manufacturing Company within the community is:
P.O. Box 200 Managing Director
Pella, Iowa 50219 USA Vermeer International B.V.
Phone: (641) 628-3141, ext. 5595 Nijverheidsstraat 20
(800) 829-0051 4458 AV ‘s-Heer Arendskerke
The Netherlands
Phone +31 113-272700

Place of Issue: Vermeer Manufacturing Company, Pella, Iowa USA

UKCA Declaration of Conformity
Vermeer machines manufactured to comply with UK Regulations include a complete UKCA Declaration of Conformity. Refer to it for
details of all applicable regulations. The following information is from an UKCA Declaration of Conformity.
We, Vermeer Manufacturing Company, declare under our sole responsibility that the product to which this declaration relates is
in conformity with all relevant provisions of regulations 2008 No. 1597, 2016 No. 1091, 2005 No. 1093, 2001 No. 1701, and 2017
No. 1206.
Machine Type: Horizontal Directional Drill
Model: D10x15III
Net Installed Power: 45 kW
Representative Measured Sound Power Level: 104 dB(A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 105 dB(A)

A technical file is maintained by the manufacturer at: The person authorized to compile the technical file and who is located
Vermeer Manufacturing Company within the community is:
P.O. Box 200 General Manager
Pella, Iowa 50219 USA Vermeer UK Ltd.
Phone: (641) 628-3141, ext. 5595 45-51 Rixon Road
(800) 829-0051 Wellingborough, Northampton, NN8 4BA
United Kingdom
Phone 01933274400
Place of Issue: Vermeer Manufacturing Company, Pella, Iowa USA

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Introduction

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Receiving and Delivery Report
Dealer Prep
___ Check for shipping damage or shortage.
___ Check that safety cones are supplied with the machine.
___ Check for loose bolts.
___ Check installation and condition of all shields.
___ Check condition of all safety signs.
___ Check tracks for correct tension. Refer to Maintenance Manual for procedure.
___ Check oil level in rotation gearbox. Refer to Maintenance Manual for procedure.
___ Check Strike Alert system. Refer to page 50-12.
___ Check neutral start interlock system. Refer to Maintenance Manual for procedure.
___ Check operator presence system. Refer to Maintenance Manual for procedure.
___ Check Remote Lockout system. Refer to page 30-8.
___ Check operation of drilling fluid systems. Refer to page 20-21.
___ Check operation of locator system, if supplied.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Receiving and Delivery Report i

Engine
___ Check oil level in engine.
___ Check condition of air cleaner.
___ Check battery charge and electrolyte level.
___ Check air intake clamps.
___ Check radiator hose clamps.
___ Check belts for correct tension.
___ Check coolant level and antifreeze concentration.
___ Check operation of engine.

Hydraulics
___ Check hydraulic fluid level.
___ Check all hydraulic components for leaks or damage.
___ Check controls for correct operation. Refer to page 20-1.
___ Check operation of stakedown units. Refer to page 20-15.
___ Check operation of vise cylinders. Refer to page 20-17.
___ Check vise cylinder pressure. Refer to Section 70: Specifications in Maintenance Manual.
___ Check maximum thrust/pullback pressure. Refer to Section 70: Specifications in Maintenance Manual.
___ Check maximum rotation pressure. Refer to Section 70: Specifications in Maintenance Manual.

ii Receiving and Delivery Report D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Delivery
Check and perform these with the customer:
___ Review contents of the HDD resource library.
___ Review the USB on horizontal directional drilling
___ Review all sections of the Operator’s Manual.
___ Ensure second operator’s manual is tethered to machine.
___ Grease or oil all lubrication points.
Review and demonstrate with the customer:
___ Overall explanation of how the machine works
___ Directional drilling safety
___ Preparing the Navigator HDD for operation (Refer to page 40-1.)

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Receiving and Delivery Report iii

Dealer/Owner Information

dealer owner

address address

city city

state/province state/province

zip/postal code zip/postal code

country country

phone number phone number

email address email address

iv Receiving and Delivery Report D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Machine Identification Number - Record
Model number

Serial number

Machine Identification Decal

This decal provides model identification and 17-digit identification number. The
barcode contains the machine’s VIN number and can be scanned with any barcode
reading device.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Receiving and Delivery Report v

Engine Identification Number - Record
Engine model number

Engine serial number

PBD11500 Portable Breakout Device Identification

Number - Record
Model number

Serial number

vi Receiving and Delivery Report D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Identification Number - Record
Remote model number

Remote serial number

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Receiving and Delivery Report vii

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Table of Contents
Receiving and Delivery Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i Machine Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-1
Dealer Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i Strike Alert Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-1
Engine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Remote Lockout Transmitter Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-4
Hydraulics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Transmitter Indicator Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-5
Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii Remote Lockout Machine Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-6
Dealer/Owner Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv Remote Lockout Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-6
Machine Identification Number - Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v Remote Lockout Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-7
Machine Identification Decal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v Remote Lockout Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-8
Engine Identification Number - Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi Engine Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-9
PBD11500 Portable Breakout Device Identification Number - Throttle Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-11
Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi Transport Station Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-12
Remote Identification Number - Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .vii Transport Controls - Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-13
Straight Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-14
Safety Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1 Setup Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-15
Safety Symbol Explanation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1 Vise Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-17
Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5 Drilling Controls - Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-18
Drilling Controls - Thrust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-19
Diesel Fuel Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Greaser (Option) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-20
Diesel Fuel Sulfur Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Rod Joint Position Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-20
Drilling Fluid Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21
Operator Presence/Seat Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23
Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-1
Auxiliary Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23
Fuses and Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-24
Vermeer Productivity Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-1 Engine Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-25
Vermeer GPS Tracking Equipment (Telematics) . . . . . . . . . 16-1 Wireless Remote Control (Option) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-26
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-28
Emissions Quick Reference Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-1 Connection State (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-28
Status of Remote and Connection (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-28

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Table of Contents vii

 Current Channel (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-29 Optional Digitrak Aurora Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-1
Battery Status (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-29
Menu Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-30 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-1
Remote Control Operating Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-32
Remote Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-33 Remote Lockout Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-1
Remote Control Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-34 Remote Lockout System Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-1
Remote Lockout System Component Identification . . . . . . .30-3
Electronic Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-1 Remote Lockout Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-3
Main Menu Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-1 Warning Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-3
Engine Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-2 Power Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-4
Drill Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-4 Run Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-4
Emissions Indicator Lockout Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-5
(Tier 4 Final/Stage V Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-6 Remote Lockout Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-6
Drill Setup Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-10 Fault Check/Processing Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-6
Drilling Fluid Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-10 Hydraulic Disable or Engine Shutdown Option . . . . . . . . . . .30-7
Carriage Slowdown Setup Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-11 Auxiliary Engine Shutdown for Hydraulic Disable . . . . . . 30-7
Rod Makeup Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-12 Remote Lockout Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-8
Rod Counter (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-13 Hydraulic Disable Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-8
Vise Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-14 Engine Shutdown Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-9
Rod Count Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-15 Remote Lockout Transmitter Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-10
Rod Count Audible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-15 Loss of Remote Lockout Transmitter Signal . . . . . . . . . . . .30-11
Tooling Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-16 Battery Condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-12
Remote Registration Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-17 Low Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-12
Straight Tracking Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-18 Discharged Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-12
Rear Joystick Tracking Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-19 Recharge Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-12
Screen Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-19 Remote Lockout System - Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-13
Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-20 Remote Lockout System - Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-13
Software Information Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-20 Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout . . . . . . . . . . .30-14
Machine/Engine Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-21 Resuming Operation After Remote Lockout . . . . . . . . . 30-16
Active Codes Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-21 Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System . . .30-17
Resuming Operation After Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-17

viii Table of Contents D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Drill Rod and Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-18 Vise Operating Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-38
Drill Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-18
Drilling Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-39
Drill Tool Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-19
Drilling Fluid Pump Output Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-39
Threaded Connections - Hex and QuickFire® Connection
Adding Antifreeze to Drilling Fluid System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-39
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-19
Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-19
Disconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-19 Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-1
Drill Tool Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-20 Preparing Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-1
Drilling Head Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-20 Operator Qualifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-1
Armor® Drill Housing Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-22 Safety Conscious Operators and Workers . . . . . . . . . . . 40-1
Armor Multi-tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-24 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-2
Rotary Tooth Installation/extraction - Gauntlet Bit . . . 30-25 Safety Signs and Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-2
PVC Pipe Pulling (Option) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-26 Radio Communication Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-3
Reamer Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-27 Radio Communication to Stop Drilling Operation. . . . . . 40-4
Swivel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-27 Radio Communication to Resume Drilling Operation. . . 40-4
Reamer Carrier - Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-27 Personal Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-5
Reamer Carrier Styles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-28 Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage IV) 40-6
Reamer Carrier Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-28 Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage V) 40-7
Reamer Carrier - Install/Remove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-29 Call Your One-Call System First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-8
Reamer Carrier - Lift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-29 Electrical Shock Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-9
Turnbuckle - Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-30 Electrocution Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-10
Reamer - Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Electrically Insulated Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-11
Threaded Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Electrically Insulated Gloves - Inspect. . . . . . . . . . . . 40-12
Manually Threaded Joint And Collar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-32 Electrically Insulated Boots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-13
Reamer Carrier Wear Pads - Replace . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-32 Strike Alert System Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-14
Rod Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-33 Soil Conductivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-14
Rod Box - Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-33 Preparing The Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-15
Drill Rods - Add to Drill String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-34 Operator Presence System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-15
Drill Rods - Remove From Drill String. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-36 Remote Lockout System Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-15
Locator System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-37 Remote Transmitter - Prepare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-15

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Table of Contents ix

 Remote Lockout System - Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-16 Strike Alert - Indicators and Controls on Display. . . . . . 50-14
Machine - Anchor with Stakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-15
Preparing the Work Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-17
Locating Equipment - Prepare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-15
Jobsite - Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-17
Rod Wiper - Install . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-16
Safety Cones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-17
Entrance and Exit Sites - Prepare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-16
Power Line Locator System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-17
Safety Cones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-17
Laws and Regulations - Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-18
Planning the Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-18 Pilot Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-18
Read Overview Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-18
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-1 Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-18
Utility Line Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-19
Starting Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-1 Electrical Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-19
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-1 After utility company has shut off the power . . . . . . . 50-20
Cold Weather Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-3 Gas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-21
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-3 Fiber Optic Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-21
Hydraulic Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-3 Drill Head - Connect to Starter Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-21
Shutdown Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-4 Before the Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-22
Drill Rod - Flush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-23
Transporting the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-5 Drill Rod - Lubricate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-24
Driving the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-5 Starting the Bore - First Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-24
Driving the Machine with Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-5 While Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-25
Safe Operating Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-6 Gauges - Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-25
Preparing for Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-7 Obstructions - Investigate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-25
Trailering the Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-8 Plugged Drill Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-26
Loading/Unloading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-8
Towing/Retrieving Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-10 Exiting the Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-26
Lifting Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-11 Changing Tools at Remote Exit Pit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-27
Communication Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-28
Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-11 Swivel Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-28
Bore Path - Walk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-11 Pullback Tool - Install . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-29
Drill Unit Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-11 Resuming Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-30
Strike Alert System - Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-12

x Table of Contents D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Pullback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-31 Welding Precautions - Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-6
Pullback - Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-31
Breaking Rod Joint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-32 Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-1
Trailing Rod While Pre-reaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-33 Safety Signs Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-1
Swivel Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-33 Maintenance Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-2
Short-string Method of Adding Hourmeter - Check for Maintenance Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-2
Drill Rod for Pre-reaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-33 Machine - Grease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-2
Resuming Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-34 Recommended Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-3
Pulling Back with Trailing Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-35 Hydraulic Fluid Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-3
Push-Through Method of Adding Engine Maintenance Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-3
Drill Rod for Pre-reaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-36 Welding Precautions - Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-3
Resuming Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-37 Maintenance Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-4
Gauges - Monitor During Pullback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-38
After Each Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-39
Vises - Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-39
Drill Rods - Clean and Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-40
Flushing Bentonite/Polymers from
Drilling Fluid System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-40
Machine - Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-41

Supplemental Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1

Jump-Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1
Battery Explosion - Prevent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1
Battery Burns - Prevent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-2
Jump-Starting Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-2
Pbd11500 Portable Breakout Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-4
Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-4
Replacing Broken Drill Rod Underground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-5

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Table of Contents xi

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Section 10: Safety Messages
General safety messages appear in this section. Specific safety messages are located in appropriate sections of
the manual where a potential hazard may occur if the instructions or procedures are not followed.
A signal word DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION is used with the safety alert symbol.
Safety signs with signal word DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION are located near specific hazards.

DANGER Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related.

Safety Symbol Explanation

This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol is used in combination with an exclamation mark or
other symbols to alert you to the potential for death or serious injury.

This symbol indicates that at least one part of the machine is not operating correctly.
Shutting down the machine may not be necessary, but some maintenance may be required.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Safety Messages 10-1

 WARNING: Read operator’s manual and safety signs, and watch the operations and safety
video, before operating machine.

WARNING: Check machine before operating. Machine must be in good operating condition
and all safety equipment installed and functioning correctly.

WARNING: Wear personal protective equipment. Wear close-fitting clothing and confine
long hair. Refer to “Personal protection,” page 40-5, for additional personal protection
requirements.

WARNING: Keep spectators away.

WARNING: Engine exhaust can asphyxiate. Operate only outdoors.

10-2 Safety Messages D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 WARNING: Failure to use Shutdown Procedure can result in unexpected hazard(s). Death or
serious injury could result due to entanglement, crushing, cutting, or other hazardous
contact. Follow Shutdown Procedure after operating, before performing any service or
maintenance, and before transporting. Follow Shutdown Procedure, page 50-4.

WARNING: Pressurized fluid can penetrate body tissue and result in death or serious
injury. Leaks can be invisible. Keep away from any suspected leak. Relieve pressure in the
hydraulic system before searching for leaks, disconnecting hoses, or performing any other
work on the system. If you must pressurize the system to find a suspected leak, use an object
such as a piece of wood or cardboard rather than your hands. When loosening a fitting where
some residual pressure may exist, slowly loosen the fitting until oil begins to leak. Wait for
leaking to stop before disconnecting the fitting. Fluid injected under the skin must be
removed immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury.

WARNING: Fuel and fumes can explode and burn.

Shut off engine before refueling. No flame. No smoking.

WARNING: Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from power-driven parts. Keep shields in
place and correctly secured.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Safety Messages 10-3

 WARNING: Hot fluid under pressure can scald.

Allow engine to cool before opening radiator cap.

WARNING: When Engine Emissions Temperature Indicator is displayed, the exhaust gas
temperature could exceed 1100°F (600°C) during filter cleaning. High temperature may
result in fire, burn, or explosion hazards, which may result in death or personal injury. Do
not expose flammable material or explosive atmospheres to exhaust gas or to exhaust
system components during filter cleaning.

WARNING: To prevent fires, routinely clear all combustible material from the engine
exhaust system. Tier 4 Final/Stage IV emission compliant exhaust systems use extreme
high temperature that can ignite combustible material.

WARNING: Make no modifications to your equipment unless specifically recommended or requested by

Vermeer Corporation.

WARNING: Be sure that all safety devices, including shields, are installed and functioning properly after
servicing the machine.

10-4 Safety Messages D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 WARNING: Failure to follow any of the preceding safety instructions or those that follow within this
manual, could result in death or serious injury. This machine is to be used only for those purposes for
which it was intended as explained in this Operator’s Manual.

Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher (not supplied with machine) can be mounted on the hose carrier mount (1). 1
Check and maintain according to extinguisher manufacturer’s instructions.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Safety Messages 10-5

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Section 12: Diesel Fuel Recommendations
Diesel Fuel Sulfur Content
Tier 4 Final/Stage IV and Stage V engines require Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel,
with sulfur content less than 15 ppm (15 mg/kg). Use of fuels other than what is specified in
the engine manual will impact engine performance, damage engine emissions systems, and
may result in engine and exhaust system warranty being voided.

S 15 mg/kg

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Diesel Fuel Recommendations 12-1

This page intentionally left blank.
Section 15: Intended Use
The Vermeer D10x15III Navigator Horizontal Directional Drill is designed solely for use in creating horizontal
bores through the earth. Utilities are typically installed in these underground bores during pullback.
Always use the machines in accordance with the instructions contained in this operator’s manual, safety signs
on the machine, and other material provided by Vermeer Corporation.
Correct maintenance and repair is essential for safety and for efficient operation of the machine. Do not use the
machine if it is not in suitable operating condition.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Intended Use 15-1

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Section 16: Vermeer Productivity Tools
Vermeer GPS Tracking Equipment (Telematics)
• Serial numbers 96 – 99, 101 – 2000 may be equipped with Vermeer GPS tracking equipment.
• Serial numbers 2001 and up are equipped with Vermeer GPS tracking equipment.
Vermeer uses GPS tracking equipment to collect data about the machine’s performance and location. When
activated, the telematics control unit (TCU) transmits the data to a subscription-based website called Vermeer
Telematics (formerly known as Vermeer Fleet/Fleet Edge). Subscribers can access the data through a computer
or mobile device.
Each subscription is valid for a current registered owner’s specific machine. The subscription cannot be
transferred to another machine or to a new machine owner.
• After subscribing, go to http://telematics.vermeer.com and refer to the bulletin for instructions on accessing
the user’s guides.
• Subscriptions can be canceled at any time by contacting your local Vermeer dealer or emailing
[email protected].
• Subscribers must notify [email protected] to cancel a subscription when selling a machine.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Vermeer Productivity Tools 16-1

 There are two levels of data access, as well as a third option which turns off the system.
• Full implementation - The subscription owner, Vermeer, and authorized dealers can all access the data. A new
machine, manufactured by Vermeer Corporation and equipped with telematics, automatically begins
transmitting data to Vermeer and its authorized dealer. The owner must activate the subscription to access the
data. For more information on subscribing, contact your Vermeer dealer or email [email protected].
• Partial implementation - Only the registered owner and Vermeer Corporation can access the data. To select this
option, contact your dealer or email [email protected].
• Shut system off - To discontinue data collection and turn off the system, email [email protected].
Used machines - To activate machine telematics after purchasing a used machine:
Step 1: View the compatible machine list online at http://store.vermeer.com, or contact your local Vermeer dealer
or email [email protected] to determine if machine telematics is available for installation.
Step 2: Contact your dealer or email [email protected] to ensure that any previous subscription related to
your machine has been canceled.
For more information, contact your Vermeer dealer or email [email protected].

16-2 Vermeer Productivity Tools D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 18: Emissions Quick Reference Guides
DEUTZ TD2.9 Tier 4/Stage IIIa
Engine oil Low ash oil only. See Operator’s Manual for more information.
Fuel Low sulfur diesel only (S < 500 mg/kg).
Starting and Refer to starting procedure in the Operator’s Manual.
cold weather DO NOT use ether or cold start aid products unless supplied by Vermeer. ECU controls cold start aids.
Wait to start until preheat light goes off.
Engine DO NOT operate at high idle when engine is cold.
warmup Engine may automatically limit or vary idle speed as it warms up.
Operation To prevent carbon build up and cylinder glazing, limit low idle time.
To avoid permanent damage, fix all errors as they occur.
Shutdown Except for emergency, run at low idle one minute before shutdown.
Refer to machine and engine operator’s manuals for more information, failure to follow instructions may void engine warranty.
Icon symbol What it means What you should know, do or not do

Engine warning Discover fault and fix before continuing operation.

Engine shutdown Stop engine and resolve faults immediately.

Document part number: 296522568 Cabled assembly part number: 296522569

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Emissions Quick Reference Guides 18-1

DEUTZ TD2.9 Tier 4/Stage IV
Engine oil Low ash oil only. See Operator’s Manual for more information.
Diesel fuel Ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) only (S < 15 mg/kg).
Starting and Refer to starting procedure in the Operator’s Manual.
cold weather DO NOT use ether or cold start aid products unless supplied by Vermeer. ECU controls cold start aids.
Wait to start until preheat light goes off.
Engine DO NOT operate at high idle when engine is cold.
warmup Engine may automatically limit or vary idle speed as it warms up.
Operation To prevent carbon build up and cylinder glazing, limit low idle time.
To avoid permanent damage, fix all errors as they occur.
Shutdown Except for emergency, run at low idle one minute before shutdown.
Refer to machine and engine operator’s manuals for information. Failure to follow instructions will void engine warranty.
Icon symbol What it means What you should know, do or not do

Engine warning Discover fault and fix before continuing operation.

Engine shutdown Stop engine and resolve faults immediately.

Document part number: 296522571 Cabled assembly part number: 296522572

18-2 Emissions Quick Reference Guides D10x15III Operator’s Manual

DEUTZ TD2.9 Tier 4/Stage V
Engine oil Low ash oil only. See operator’s manual for more information.
Fuel Ultra Low Sulfur Fuel (ULSD) only (S < 15 mg/kg).
Starting and Refer to Starting procedure in the operator’s manual.
cold weather DO NOT use ether or cold start aid products unless supplied by Vermeer. ECU controls cold start aids.
Wait to start until preheat light goes off.
Engine DO NOT operate at high idle when engine is cold.
warmup Engine may vary sound and idle speed as it warms up.
Operation To prevent carbon build up and cylinder glazing, limit low idle time.
To prevent permanent damage, fix all errors as they occur.
Shutdown Except for an emergency, operate engine with no load for one minute before shutdown.
Except during an emergency, DO NOT shut down while exhaust system cleaning is active icon is on.
Refer to machine and engine operator’s manuals for more information. Failure to follow instructions may void engine warranty.
Icon symbol What it means What you should know, do or not do

Engine warning Discover fault and fix before continuing operation.

Engine shutdown Stop engine and resolve faults immediately.

Document part number: 296522574 Cabled assembly part number: 296522575

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Emissions Quick Reference Guides 18-3

ISO symbol What It Means What You Should Know, do or not do
High exhaust system If exhaust system cleaning is not interrupted, this symbol will come and go off automatically.
temperature indicator High exhaust temperatures possible.
Repeatedly shutting off engine during exhaust system cleaning will affect warranty.
Exhaust system Yellow: Exhaust system tampering detected. Stays on for 3 hours and 45 minutes before turning red.
malfunction Check/repair exhaust system equipment.
Red: Exhaust system tampering not repaired. Engine torque decreased. Check/repair exhaust system.
Yellow Flashing: Exhaust system hardware failure. Repair before engine loses power in 10 minutes.
Message tells what component to repair.
Red Flashing: Engine speed limited to low idle. Repair exhaust system equipment. Service technician
required.
If tampering is detected again within 40 operating hours, a warning message is displayed for 30 minutes
before final derating.
Refer to your engine operator’s manual or contact your engine servicing dealer for assistance.
Exhaust system Yellow: Perform exhaust system cleaning withing 40 hours.
cleaning indicator Yellow Flashing: Perform exhaust system cleaning within 20 hours.
Red: Exhaust system cleaning has not been requested within allotted time. Service technician required.
Engine speed limited to low idle. Icon shuts off when exhaust system cleaning is complete.
Engine Exhaust Cleaning Controls Display view

Press for three

seconds. Key
turns green for
20 seconds
with pressed

Exhaust system cleaning indicator HEST lamp Exhaust system malfunction

18-4 Emissions Quick Reference Guides D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 20: Machine Controls
Strike Alert Controls 1

(1) Press to test voltage and current-sensing circuits and alarm operation.

Alarm on drill unit must sound when Strike Alert test key is pressed
and held.

If alarm does not sound when the Strike Alert test key is pressed and
held, the system is not functioning. Call your Vermeer dealer.

If the alarm sounds when the key is pressed and held, it means the
system is working correctly. However, it does not guarantee that a
strike will be detected. Follow the procedures if an electrical strike is
suspected. Refer to “Electrical Shock Protection,” page 40-9.

Test Strike Alert system with the voltage stake fully inserted into the
ground. Do not test with stake in its storage cradle, lying on the
machine or lying on the ground.

If machine is on a dry hard surface, insert stakedowns into ground.

Moisten area where the rack contacts ground and stake insertion
area. This will increase electrical conductivity between machine and
ground.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-1

 (2) Alarm cancel key
Press to silence Strike Alert alarm. Strike Alert alarm sounds when
Strike Alert test key is pressed and held, or contact with an electrical
source has been detected by the system.
2
If cancel key does not shut off alarm, do not move off machine until
cause has been identified. Refer to “Electrical Shock Protection,” page
40-9.

Refer to “Strike Alert System - Test,” page 50-12.

20-2 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 (3) Strike Alert indicator symbol
Red . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . strike is occurring

Yellow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sensor failure, 3

ground stake not in ground, or ground stake wiring issue

Green . . . . . . . . .Strike Alert system test passed, condition normal

When no Strike Alert module is connected, indicator on the display

disappears and a “Strike Alert Offline” fault is generated.

Refer to “Strike Alert - Indicators and Controls on Display,” page 50-14.

Refer to “Uility Line Contact,” page 50-19.

(4) Strike Alert horn

When alarm sounds, the drill may have contacted an electrical line.
Alarm will also sound when the Strike Alert test key is pressed and
held. 4

If cancel key does not shut off alarm, do not move off machine until
cause has been identified. Refer to “Electrical Shock Protection,” page
40-9.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-3

Remote Lockout Transmitter Controls 1
For the remote transmitter to function, machine ignition key must be on and operator must be 3
seated.
2
(1) Power button (black)
Press and hold until yellow light flashes, then green light is on solid . . . . . . . on
Press and hold until all lights are off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . off

Remote shuts off automatically if there is no communication with machine after

20 minutes.
(2) Run button (green)
With transmitter on:
Press and hold until yellow light flashes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . run mode requested
When green light comes on, Remote Lockout system is in run mode.

With transmitter off:

Press and hold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . test mode
Starts testing of transmitter buzzer, vibrator, and indicator lights
(3) Lockout button (red)
With transmitter on:
Momentarily press and release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . lockout mode requested
When lockout is complete, red light will come on (takes approximately two to five
seconds).

With transmitter off:

Press and hold until yellow light flashes. . . . . . . . . . turns transmitter on and
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . requests lockout mode
When lockout is complete, red light comes on (takes approximately two to five
seconds).

20-4 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Transmitter Indicator Lights
Flashing or steady lights indicate various operating conditions.
(1) Lockout mode light
Red steady. . . . .drill rotation, thrust/pullback, and fluid locked out
3
(2) Run mode light
Green steady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . drill control returned to operator 2
Green flashing . . . . . . .lockout requested, waiting for confirmation

(3) Processing light

Yellow flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . machine state unknown;
4
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . attempting to establish radio communication
Double flashing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . registration mode 1

(4) Low battery light

Blue flashing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . battery power less than 10%

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-5

Remote Lockout Machine Controls
(1) Alarm cancel key
1
Press to cancel continuously sounding alarm when radio
communication is not established.

(2) Alarm
Sounds with a series of beeps or continuous tone to indicate different
operating and Remote Lockout system conditions.

Remote Lockout Symbols

Flashing or steady symbols (3) in different colors indicate different operating
conditions.
Run mode light 2
Green steady. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . drill control returned to operator
Green flashing . . . . . . . lockout requested, waiting for confirmation

Lockout mode
Red steady . . . .drill rotation, thrust/pullback, and fluid locked out

Processing light
Yellow flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . machine state unknown;
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . attempting to establish radio communication
3
Double flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . registration mode

20-6 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Lockout Indicators
Transmitter indicators Indication Function/Status
Green run light Steady Run mode. Machine not locked out.
Flashing Lockout requested; waiting for confirmation.
Red lockout light Steady Lockout mode. Machine is locked out.
Yellow light Flashing No radio communication between transmitter and machine.
Double flashing Remote is in registration mode.
Blue light Flashing Battery low.
Sound Two seconds Run mode. Machine not locked out.
3+3+3 beeps Lockout mode. Machine is locked out.
60 seconds Lockout denied. Attempt to lock out machine has failed.
Vibration 60 seconds Lockout denied. Attempt to lock out machine has failed.

Machine indicators Indication Function/Status

Green run light Steady Run mode. Machine not locked out.
Flashing Lockout requested; waiting for confirmation.
Red lockout light Steady Lockout mode. Machine is locked out.
Yellow light Flashing No radio communication between transmitter and machine.
Double flashing Registration mode.
Sound Two seconds Run mode. Machine not locked out.
3+3+3 beeps Lockout mode. Machine is locked out.
60 seconds Lockout denied. Attempt to lock out machine has failed.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-7

Remote Lockout Battery Charger
(1) Battery charger
2
Recharges transmitter battery. Insert battery into charger (located in the cabinet
next to the operator seat). An amber light flashes when battery is fully charged. A 1
green light indicates charger is receiving power. 3

(2) Battery charger outlet

Insert charger plug fully into outlet.
(3) Remote Lockout transmitter storage

20-8 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Engine Controls
(1) Keyswitch - transport control station 1

Vertical position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . engine stop

1st position clockwise . . . . . . . engine run/electrical system on

2nd position clockwise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . engine start

(2) Engine shutoff switch

2

Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to shut off engine

Pull out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . before restarting the engine 3

(3) Start button

Press to start engine.
Keyswitch (1) at transport control station must be turned to on
position.
Engine can be started either at transport control station or at operator
station.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-9

 (4) Engine stop key-remote control
Press. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . stop engine

(5) Hydraulic enable key

After starting, sit in seat and press key to enable drill functions.

(6) Battery disconnect switch

6
Rotate switch counterclockwise. . . . . . . . . . . . disconnect ground

Rotate switch clockwise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . connect ground

20-10 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Throttle Controls
Transport station
(1) Throttle switch 1
Press up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase rpm

Press down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease rpm

Rotation joystick - left

(2) Throttle increase button
Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase rpm
2
(3) Throttle decrease button 3
Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease rpm

Transport remote
4
(4) Throttle increase key
Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase rpm

5
(5) Throttle decrease key
Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease rpm

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-11

Transport Station Controls 2
1
(1) Left track lever
Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . move forward

Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . move backward

Push one lever ahead and pull other lever back to counter-rotate
tracks. The levers self-center when released.

(2) Right track lever

Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . move forward

Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . move backward

The ground drive controls do not function with an operator in the

seat.

If the controller is reprogrammed or if defaults are changed with a service tool, the rear joysticks will be
disabled. Calibrate the joysticks to enable tracking. Refer to “Rear Joystick Tracking Calibration,” page 21-19.

20-12 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Transport Controls - Remote Control
Rear transport joysticks override remote commands.
(1) Left track joystick

Push. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . left track forward

1 2

Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . left track reverse

(2) Right track joystick

Push. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . right track forward

Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . right track reverse

Push both joysticks forward to drive machine forward. Pull both joysticks back to drive machine in reverse.
Steer machine by moving one joystick farther forward or back than the other.
To counter-rotate, push one joystick forward and pull the other joystick back.
Joysticks self-center when released.
Radio remote control is disabled if an operator is in the seat or any machine keypad key or joystick button is pressed.
Tracking is adjustable. Refer to “Straight Tracking,” page 20-14.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-13

Straight Tracking
Step 1: Press and hold straight tracking key (1) for five seconds. Display on the
remote will show “STR TRK ENABLED.”
Step 2: Adjust left and right tracks by using uppermost trim buttons, left side (2) 1
for left track, right side (3) for right track.
Step 3: To reset defaults, press and hold buttons (2) and (3).

2 3

2 3

20-14 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Setup Controls
(1) Stakedown selector 2
Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . left stake
Press . . . . . . . . . . . switch to right stake, right light comes on
Press again . . . . . . . . . . . back to left stake, left light comes on
3
(2) Stakedown remove key 1
Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . remove stake from the ground
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . stake turns counterclockwise

(3) Stakedown drive in key

Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . drive stake into the ground
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . stake turns clockwise

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-15

 (4) Rack angle/rear stabilizer switch - transport control station
Press top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase rack angle 4

Press bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease rack angle

(5) Rack angle/rear stabilizer key - remote control

Press top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase rack angle

Press bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease rack angle

To park machine, tilt rack, then lower stabilizer to the ground.

5
Lower rack until vise plate is secure when parking the machine
or leaving it unattended.

20-16 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Vise Controls
(1) Rear vise switch 1

2
Push up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . clamp rear drill rod

Push down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . release rear drill rod

(2) Front vise switch

Push up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . clamp front drill rod

Machine is equipped with vise lockout. Refer to “Vise Lockout,” page

Right joystick
21-14.

Push down. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . release front drill rod

(3) Vise rotation button

Press once. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vise will rotate to next position
. . . . . (returns to home position after breaking lower joint)

Press again . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . rotate vise to home position

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-17

Drilling Controls - Rotation
(1) Drill rotation joystick (left)
Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . rotate counterclockwise
Use for uncoupling threaded drill rod.
Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . rotate clockwise
Use for drilling forward or backreaming.
1
Joystick automatically returns to the stop position when released.

Never rotate drill rod counterclockwise while drilling, pulling back or

backreaming. The threaded rod will come apart.
2
(2) Drill rotation pressure gauge
Displays rotation hydraulic circuit pressure.

20-18 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Drilling Controls - Thrust
(1) Thrust/pullback joystick (right)
Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .thrust drill forward

Pull. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pullback (retract) drill 1

Left/right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . no function

Joystick automatically returns to the stop position when released.

(2) Drill thrust/pullback pressure gauge

Displays thrust hydraulic circuit pressure 2

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-19

Greaser (Option)
The machine may have a greaser bucket (1) for lubricating
drill rod threads. Press grease button (2) on left joystick to
release grease.
The amount of grease released is determined by how long
2
grease button is pressed.
Refill or replace bucket as needed. Refer to the maintenance
manual for procedures.

Rod Joint Position Indicator

When pointer (1) aligns with mark on rod box (2), the rod joint is positioned between
front and rear vises. The power vises can then clamp the drill rods and loosen the
joint. 2

20-20 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Drilling Fluid Controls 1
(1) Fluid system on/off switch
Push up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fluid system on, variable flow 2

Pull down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fluid system off

(2) Full flow button

Press and hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . full flow Left joystick
Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . full flow off
Control defaults to variable flow setting when button is released.

(3) Drilling fluid pump flow rate

Displays fluid flow at water pump outlet 3
0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . no flow 4
0 – 20 gpm @ 2,300 rpm . . . . . . . . . . drilling fluid flow set point

(4) Drilling fluid pressure gauge

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-21

 (5) Drill/wash wand key
Toggle between drill and wash wand. Operator must be out of seat
and front vise must be closed to enable wash wand.

Lights at top of key:

Left on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . drilling fluid mode 5
Right on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . wash wand mode

Fluid flow defaults to 10 gpm (38 L/min) when mode is switched

from drill to wash wand.

(6) Wash wand

Squeeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . spray wand on
Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . spray wand off 6

Plug wand into the quick coupler (A), then turn water on using fluid
on/off switch (1) (shown on previous page).
(7) Dump valve

(8) Connects to 25 gal (95 L) tank

7 8
A

20-22 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Operator Presence/Seat Controls
(1) Operator presence switch
The machine has an operator presence switch in the seat. The operator must sit
in the seat for drill rotation, drill thrust, and auxiliary controls to function. 2
1
This system is intended for your safety and must be maintained in good
functional condition.
(2) Seat rotation lever
Lift lever to rotate seat to desired position. Release lever to lock.

Auxiliary Outlet
(1) 12-volt auxiliary outlet 1
Use outlet to operate 12-volt 150-watt electrical accessories. A
15-amp breaker protects the circuit.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-23

Fuses and Relays
Fuses protect electrical circuits and are located in engine bay near battery F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8
disconnect switch. When replacing them, use fuses with the correct rating to
prevent damaging electrical system.

Fuse number Relay number System controlled F9 F10

F1 K1 Operator console K1 K2 K3
F2 K4 Unused
F3 K7 Sensors F11 F12

F4 K2 Pump controller K4 K5 K6
F5 K8 Accessory port
F13 F14
F6 K6 Drilling fluid ball valve
F7 K3 Unused K7 K8 K9

F8 Ignition switch
F9 Unswitched accessory
F10 K5 Radio base and Remote Lockout controller
F11 Unused
F13 K9 Torque limiter
F14 Deutz ECU

20-24 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Engine Access
(1) Hood latch
To open hood, pull safety pin (A),
release latch and pull up on front of
hood.
(2) Hood release knob
A 3
1 2
To close hood, push lever down into
machine while lifting on bar (3).

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-25

Wireless Remote Control (Option)
Remote control is disabled if operator is seated at controls or if any
machine control key or button is pressed.
(1) Passcode key 1
(2) Passcode key 2
(3) Passcode key 3 4 5
To enable remote and hydraulics, press power button (4), then passcode
keys (1), (2) and (3) in sequence. Horn will sound. Remote is disabled after
30 seconds of inactivity.

(4) Power key

Press for three seconds . . . . . to turn remote control on and off
“REMOTE ON” message appears on display screen.

Release button; display shows message “CONNECTING...” and

broken antenna symbol.

Remote turns off if there is no communication with base unit for 20 1 2 3

minutes. Control of the machine functions returns to operator
station.

(5) Horn key

Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sound horn

20-26 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 (6) Display screen 6
Displays “NOT ENABLED ENTER CODE” when remote control is
first turned on. When passcode keys have been pressed, displays
“ENABLED TRACKING.” Fuel level and engine rpm are also
displayed across bottom of screen.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-27

Display
When not displaying graphics from a base or a menu selected by the user, the
display provides information about the remote-control connection state (1), 2 1
status (2), current channel (3), and battery status (4).

Connection State (1)

The antenna symbol indicates the connection state

3
Connected - Remote is receiving signal from a registered base unit.

Disconnected - Remote is not receiving signal from registered base unit.

4
Status of Remote and Connection (2)
The status of the remote is displayed in the top left corner. The remote may be
in one of six states:
• REMOTE ON - Initial power on, power key not yet released. In this stage, the remote serial number and
software revision will also be displayed.
• RF INIT - The RF system is initializing; this state should exit after a few seconds. The radio module type
will also be displayed.
• CONNECTING - Looking for a registered base; in this state the logical RF channel will also be displayed.
• REGISTERING - Broadcasting a registration sequence and looking for a response.
• REGISTERED - Base found and registration sequence complete.
• TURNING OFF - Remote powering down.

20-28 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Current Channel (3)
Shows current channel pattern used by the remote to transfer information. Channel can be changed to minimize
interference if it is experienced during machine operation.

Battery Status (4)

The battery symbol indicates remaining battery life.

Battery is fully charged (over 90% capacity)

Battery is partially charged (between 90 and 10% of capacity).

Battery is discharged (less than 10% capacity).

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-29

Menu Options

3 6
2 7
1 4

5
7

Step 1: Press menu key (1) and power key (2) at the same time to enter setup
menu. Display (3) shows options of versions, backlight, register, scan
channels, and next channel.
Step 2: Use plus/up key (4) or minus/down key (5) to scroll through options.
Later options shown are “FIELD STRENGTH”, “CONTRAST +”, 5
1 4 7
“CONTRAST -”, “SELF TEST”, “SET DEFAULT” (6), and “EXIT” (7).

20-30 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 3: Press enter key (7) to select an option.
Versions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hardware and software versions of remote
Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . turn on or off
Scan channels (“SCAN CHNLS”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . register remote
7
• Screen 1: Turn machine key off, then press enter on remote.
• Screen 2: Channel scanning with progress bar.
• Screen 3: Best channel reported value. Turn machine key on and press enter key
on remote. Remote syncs with base unit and registers on that channel.

Next channel (“NEXT CHAN”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . change channels

Field strength (“FIELD STR”) . . . .provides a strength rating on link between
remote and machine
Contrast (+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . increase screen contrast
Contrast (-) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . decrease screen contrast
Self test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . remote checks itself for function
Set default. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reset all settings to defaults
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . leave menu screen

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-31

Remote Control Operating Range
These operating ranges are accurate if the remote control system, including transmitter, batteries, and receiver
are in correct operating condition.
Normal range: within 100 ft (30 m)
Maximum recommended range: up to 300 ft (91 m)
• Check range before operating machine.
• Do not exceed usable operating range.
• Recharge or replace battery if range is less than 100 ft (30 m).
• Range may exceed 300 ft (91 m).
When remote is out of range, display shows “NOT ENABLED ENTER CODE.” No functions on the remote work
if remote is out of range.

20-32 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Registration
1
7
3
4 6
2 5

8 9

Register remote once, when used the first time. After that, register only if pairing becomes disconnected, or if a
new remote is used.
Step 1: Turn on keyswitch. Engine need not be operating.
Step 2: On the machine display, press lower left key to select main menu.
Step 3: Select “DRILL SETUP” (1).
Step 4: On first setup screen, press right arrow (2) until registration screen appears.
Step 5: Use up or down arrows (3) to select register radio remote (“REGISTER REMOTE”) (4) then press +.
Step 6: Turn on transport remote.
a. Press power key (5).
b. Press passcode keys (6) in sequence.
Step 7: Press power key (5) and menu key (7) at same time to access remote menu. Press down key (8) to scroll
to registration. Press enter key (9).

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Machine Controls 20-33

 Step 8: Registration may take up to two minutes to complete. “REGISTERED” briefly appears, then “RF INIT.”
Several seconds later, remote should communicate with base.
If remote does not register in three minutes, “REG. FAILED” appears and previous registration information
remains intact. Turn off remote or begin a new registration process.

Remote Control Storage

Release latch (1) and open cover (2) to store remote control.

20-34 Machine Controls D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 21: Electronic Controller
The system displays gauges and diagnostic indicators using a liquid crystal display (LCD). A menu provides
choices from which the operator may choose.
Eight keys on either side of the display correspond to different functions on different screens. Press the lower left
button from any screen to reach the main menu screen. Engine screen is the first displayed at startup. Drill
screen appears when operator is in seat and hydraulics are enabled.
Read the controls section for information on controls and lights within each function. Refer to page 20-1.

Main Menu Screen 1

(1) Drill screen, page 21-4 2
(2) Drill setup, page 21-10
(3) Screen brightness, page 21-19
(4) Software information, page 21-20
(5) Straight tracking, page 21-18
(6) Units, page 21-20
3 5

4 6

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-1

Engine Screen 4
1
This is the default screen displayed at startup. 7
2
3
Measurement units can be in metric or U.S.
Refer to “Units,” page 21-20.

(1) Engine oil pressure (PSI) 5

8
(2) Engine speed (rpm) 6

(3) Engine hours

(4) Engine coolant temperature

(5) System voltage (Vdc)

(6) Fuel level

(7) To hydraulic tank temperature

(8) To engine load percentage

21-2 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 (9) Engine load percentage 9
10
% 13

(10) Hydraulic temperature gauge

11
(11) To drill screen
(12) To main menu screen
16 15 17 18 14
(13) To engine coolant temperature gauge 12

(14) To engine oil pressure gauge

(15) Strike Alert status
Green: Test passed, system ready
Yellow: Stake not in ground, current sensor
failure, or stake wiring issue
Red: Strike is occurring
Refer to “Strike Alert Controls,” page 20-1
(16) Remote Lockout
Colors, lights, and flash sequences are explained
in the Machine controls section. Refer to “Remote
Lockout Indicators,” page 20-7.
(17) Fuel level indicator
Appears when less than 10% fuel tank capacity
remains.

(18) Preheat light

Wait to start until icon disappears.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-3

Drill Screen 1
(1) Rotation gauge 7

Torque in ft-lb/Nm or
Pressure in psi/bar/MPa 2

(2) Thrust/pullback gauge

8
Force in lbs/kN/tonne or 3 4
Pressure in psi/bar/MPa
5
(3) Drilling fluid flow
Yellow triangle shows set point.
10
Dark blue bar shows actual flow. 6 9
Light blue lines above and below gauge indicate
value can be adjusted.
(4) Drilling fluid pressure
Yellow triangle shows current value.
(5) To engine screen
(6) To main menu
(7) Increase drilling fluid flow
(8) Decrease drilling fluid flow
(9) To next screen
(10) Vise lockout engaged
Refer to “Tooling Length,” page 21-16.

21-4 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 (11) Rod count (if equipped) page 21-13. Shows number
of rods when rod count feature is enabled. Display
is hidden when rod count feature is disabled.
11 14
(12) Red arc - parameter limit 13

(13) Rotation high/low speed

Press to switch between H (high speed) and L (low 12
speed)
(14) Red arc - thrust parameter limit

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-5

Emissions Indicator
(Tier 4 Final/Stage V Only)
(1) Regeneration request key
Press for three seconds to request regeneration. 1
Indicator turns green for 20 seconds.
regeneration, it will cancel the regeneration
request.
2
If pressed when light (2) is not on, regeneration
will not occur and this message will be displayed:
“PARKED REGEN NOT REQUIRED AT THIS
TIME.”
(2) Standstill regeneration required
Yellow: Regeneration required. Do a regeneration
within 40 hours from first occurrence. Symbol stays on until regeneration occurs.
Yellow flashing: Regeneration required. Engine derates. Do a regeneration within 20 hours. Engine derates 25%.
Red: Regeneration required. Regeneration has not been requested within allotted time. Service technician required.
Engine is locked at idle.

NOTICE: To regeneration, move machine to a safe location. Engine speed will be limited to 1,800 rpm and hydraulics will
be disabled. Tracking will be enabled, but do not put heavy loads on machine during regeneration. Regeneration takes 45 –
60 minutes. After regeneration, engine speed returns to previous level.

21-6 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 (3) Aftertreatment error
Yellow: Malfunction detected.
Red: First warning not remedied for three hours
45 minutes. Engine derates.
Yellow flashing: Hardware failure detected.
Message tells which component has failed. Repair
before engine loses power in 10 minutes.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-7

 (4) High exhaust temperature lamp
Red flashing: hardware failure continued for 10
minutes after detection. Engine limited to low
idle. Message tells which component has failed.
Service technician required.
If malfunction is detected again within 40
operating hours, a warning message is displayed
for 30 minutes before final derating.
4

21-8 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Manual/Parked filter cleaning
The filter is self-cleaning and usually requires no operator action. Automatic
cleaning is the standard mode.
However, if the exhaust filter indicator (1) is yellow, a manual/parked cleaning
may be required.
Refer to the engine operation manual for complete information.
NOTICE: Failure to follow procedures specified in the engine operation manual 3
may violate U.S. federal, state, and local hazardous waste laws. Not following
engine operation manual procedures may damage the DPF resulting in
potential denial of the diesel exhaust filter emissions warranty. If this results
in premature failure of exhaust system components, an engine service
technician will be required to perform a service filter cleaning.
Step 1: Park machine in a location so exhaust is not directed at a surface or
material that may become hazardous. 1 2
Step 2: Press request manual/parked cleaning key (3). The high exhaust
system temperature indicator (2) will come on, engine rpm may
increase, and the sound of the turbocharger may change.
Step 3: Monitor machine and surrounding area for unsafe conditions. If necessary, shut off machine.
When exhaust filter cleaning is complete, the engine returns to normal idle speed and high exhaust system
temperature indicator shuts off. Exhaust temperatures remain elevated for approximately 20 – 50 minutes.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-9

Drill Setup Screens
5
Drilling Fluid Setup Screen 1 6

(1) Move active selection up 8

(2) Return to previous screen 2

(3) Move active selection down

(4) Return to main menu screen 3

(5) Drilling fluid setup active 9

(6) Mud pressure limit current value 4 7
(7) Wash wand pressure limit current value
(8) Move to next screen
(9) Not used

21-10 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Carriage Slowdown Setup Screen 5
(1) Move active selection up 1

(2) Return to previous screen

(3) Move active selection down 2

(4) Return to main menu screen

(5) Carriage slowdown setup active 7
3
(6) Slowdown speed
6
(7) Move to next screen
4 8
(8) Increase/Decrease value of settings

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-11

Rod Makeup Setup Screen 1 5
11
(1) Move active selection up
(2) Return to previous screen 8
2
(3) Move active selection down
(4) Return to main menu screen
(5) Rod makeup setup active 3
(6) Rotation makeup pressure
(7) Thrust makeup pressure
4
(8) Move to next screen 10
(9) Vise lockout
7
(10) Press plus (+) button to enable vise lockout, press
minus (–) button to disable vise lockout
(11) Rod size 6

21-12 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Rod Counter (Optional)
When enabled, this feature calculates the number of rods
drilled out/pulled back, which helps to track the bore and 1
5
pullback. Contact your authorized independent Vermeer
dealer to install this option. 2
6
(1) Move active selection up
(2) Return to previous screen 3
8
(3) Move active selection down
(4) Return to main menu screen 4

(5) Rod counter enable/disable 9

(6) Rod count adjust increase/decrease

7
(7) Rod count audible enable/disable
(8) Move to next screen
(9) Press plus (+) button to enable rod counter, increase rod count, or enable rod count audible. Press minus (–)
button to disable rod counter, decrease rod count or disable rod count audible
When rod counter is enabled, the number of rods will be shown on main drill screen. Refer to “Drill Screen,”
page 21-4.
Rod count adjust allows the operator to change the counter manually when adding/removing any external drill
rods. Press and hold plus (+) or minus (–) button for three seconds to adjust rod count.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-13

Vise Lockout
Must be enabled to enable rod counter. Vise lockout makes the rod count reliable. 1
Use display keys to select vise lockout (1). Press the plus (+) button once to enable
vise lockout. Clamp front vise and when a breakout is detected, the lockout icon will
appear on main drill screen as seen on page 21-4. Vise unclamp will not work until
rod joint makeup torque (2) is reached.
An advisory (3) will briefly display when vise lockout is enabled.
Press minus (–) button to disable vise lockout. Rod counter feature and associated
adjustments will be disabled if vise lockout is disabled. An advisory (3) will briefly
display when vise lockout is disabled. The vise lockout disabled advisory will also
appear briefly each time the drill is started with the vise lock already disabled.

21-14 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Rod Count Adjust
Rod adjust (4) allows the operator to manually change the counter when adding/
removing any external drill rods. Press and hold plus (+) or minus (–) button for
three seconds to adjust rod count.
4
Rod Count Audible
An alarm (beep) will sound when rod count audible (5) is enabled and a drill rod
has been added or removed. Rod count audible can be disabled without affecting
rod count feature.
5

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-15

Tooling Length
Tooling length refers to the attachment at the front of drill
rod and is used to calculate total drill string length. Tooling 1
length is measured from joint shoulder to the middle of the
sonde. This setting is found at main menu – drill setup – 6
settings. 2
(1) Move active selection up 8
(2) Return to previous screen
3
(3) Move active selection down
(4) Return to main menu screen
(5) Tooling length 4
7
(6) Move to next screen 5

(7) Press plus (+) button to increase tool length, press

minus (–) button to decrease tool length
(8) Ground engagement is not an active feature.

21-16 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Registration Setup Screen 5
1
(1) Move active selection up
(2) Return to previous screen
(3) Move active selection down 2
6
(4) Return to main menu screen
(5) Remote registration setup active 3 7
11
(6) Register Remote Lockout
(7) Switch between hydraulic disable and engine 8
4
disable 12

(8) Register radio remote

(9) Restore parameters
(10) Ground engagement length
(11) Move to next screen
(12) Change setting
9

10

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-17

Straight Tracking Screen
When tracking is not straight, use this 2
procedure while tracking.
1
Step 1: From the main menu, select 3
straight tracking.
Step 2: Press and hold right arrow
key (1) to enable straight
tracking adjustments.
Step 3: Press key (2) to enable forward tracking.
4
Press key (3) to enable reverse tracking.
Green arrow (4) indicates direction of tracking.
5 6
Step 4: If the machine is veering to the right, press key
(5) to slow the left track.
If the machine is veering to the left, press key
(6) to slow down the right track.
Green bars (7) indicate left to right track
adjustments. 7 8
Step 5: Press and hold key (8) to restore default
settings.
If left and right bars are less than maximum, the machine will track more slowly than maximum speed.

21-18 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Rear Joystick Tracking Calibration
If the controller is reprogrammed or if defaults are changed with a service tool, the
rear joysticks will be disabled. Calibrate the joysticks to enable tracking.
Two diagnostic messages, one for each joystick, will appear.
Step 1: Turn keyswitch to on. Engine should not be running.
Step 2: Hold rear joysticks full forward for five seconds.
Step 3: Hold rear joysticks in neutral position for five seconds.
Step 4: Hold rear joysticks backwards for five seconds.
Step 5: Return rear joysticks to neutral position.
This calibrates the maximum and minimum voltages for the tracking
joysticks.
Step 6: Turn keyswitch to off.

Screen Brightness
From main menu screen, select “BRIGHTNESS.”
Press plus (+) or minus (-) keys (1) to change percent (2) of total screen brightness.

1
2

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-19

Units
Use up and down arrows keys (1) to select a parameter. Use plus (+) and minus (-)
keys (2) to choose a different unit of measure. Press lower left key (3) to return to
main menu. 1
• Rotation gauge: torque or pressure
• Rotation torque: ft-bs or Nm
• Rotation pressure: psi, bar, or MPa
• Thrust gauge: force or pressure
• Thrust force: lbs, Kn, or tonne
• Thrust pressure: psi, bar, or MPa
• Flow rate: gpm, lpm (L/min)
• Velocity: not used 2

• Length: not used

• Temperature: Fahrenheit, Celsius
3

Software Information Screen 1

(1) Machine model name
2
(2) Machine serial number 3
(3) Cab display information 4
(4) Pump control unit information

21-20 Electronic Controller D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Machine/Engine Diagnostics
Active Codes Screen
When a machine fault occurs, a descriptive message (1)
appears at the bottom of the screen.
7
When an engine fault appears, the message box may contain
only numbered codes. Refer to engine operation manual.
6
Press hide key (2) to remove message from screen.

The message box states when more than one fault is active (3).
Press left or right arrows (4) to cycle through other faults.
3
Caution faults may appear with a yellow border (5) on 4 1 4
message box. Stop messages have a red border (6).
When a stop message appears, move the machine to a safe
location as soon as possible and stop the machine. If the
message is an engine fault, the engine will eventually shut 2
down automatically.
When the fault has been resolved, the message box border
5
turns green and the hide key changes to recall (7) to display
messages again.

For active faults or stop warnings, consult your Vermeer

dealer. 3

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Electronic Controller 21-21

This page intentionally left blank.
Section 22: Optional Digitrak Aurora Display
The DigiTrak Aurora display accepts telemetry signals from all
DigiTrak receivers except the LT.
Refer to the Aurora Operator’s Manual and quick start guide
included with the machine’s reference library or at
www.DigiTrak.com, under Service and Support > Downloads.
For more information:
• U.S.:
• 425.251.0559 / 800.288.3610
• 253.395.2800 fax
• [email protected]
• [email protected] +61.7.5531.4283
• [email protected]+86.21.6432.5186
• [email protected]+49.9391.810.6100
• [email protected] +91.11.4507.0444
• [email protected]+7.499.281.8177

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Optional Digitrak Aurora Display 22-1

This page intentionally left blank.
Section 30: Overview
Remote Lockout Overview
The Remote Lockout system is not intended to replace good verbal radio communication. Radio communication
is important to the Remote Lockout system process. Refer to “Radio Communication Requirements,” page 40-3.

Remote Lockout System Intended Use

The Remote Lockout system is a communication and control tool that allows a worker along the bore path or at
exit site to directly lock out:
• Drill rod rotation
• Thrust
• Pullback
• Integrated fluid flow controls
The Remote Lockout system will not shut down the power units on stand-alone drilling fluid systems or air
compressors. These external power units must be shut off manually.
Although the system can stop these functions while drilling, the purpose is to prevent these functions from
being started.
Lights, sound, and vibration indicate different modes. The indicators tell the machine operator and remote user
that the system is operating correctly and whether drilling functions are locked out.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-1

 In transport mode, the machine does not respond to Remote Lockout system commands until it goes back to drill
mode.
Do not rely on the Remote Lockout system as an emergency stop. It is unlikely that disabling thrust
and rotation could be done quickly enough to prevent death or serious injury.
Use Remote Lockout system to lock out machine before working on or near drill string. Examples include:
• Before approaching drill head
• Before changing tools or attaching product to be pulled in
• Before applying tools to drill string
• Before manually adding or removing drill rod from drill string
• Before entering an exit pit

30-2 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Lockout System Component Identification
Refer to “Remote Lockout Transmitter Controls,” page 20-4.

Remote Lockout Transmitter

The Remote Lockout transmitter (1) clips onto the user’s belt and
has a range of up to 3,300 ft (1 km). The range depends on weather 1 2
and environmental conditions and on whether it is used in urban
or rural areas. 3

The user can select either run or lockout mode, indicated by lights
and audible alarm.
The compartment behind the right control console contains a
storage bracket (2) and a battery charger (3).

Warning Alarm
If machine is not locked out and if radio communication is not
established within 10 seconds of entering drill mode, a steady
4
warning alarm sounds at the machine.
If machine is locked out, the audible lockout alarm sounds and red
lockout light (4) is on.
Refer to “Loss of Remote Lockout Transmitter Signal,” page 30-11.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-3

Power Button
1
Turn on the Remote Lockout transmitter in one of two ways: 2
• Pressing power button (1) and holding for two seconds. 3
• Pressing lockout button (2).
To shut off transmitter power, press power button (1) and hold for two seconds.
When the remote transmitter power is on, at least one light should be on. If no lights are lit
on the remote, it means:
• The power is off.
• The battery is dead.
• The remote is not functioning.

Run Button
Turn drill unit keyswitch on before turning on the Remote Lockout transmitter. If you do not, the transmitter
will indicate a loss of radio signal. Refer to “Loss of Remote Lockout Transmitter Signal,” page 30-11.
When transmitter is on:
Press green run button (3) and hold for two seconds to transfer control of drilling functions to the machine
operator. Green lights on transmitter and machine come on and buzzers at each location sound for two seconds.
When transmitter is off:
Press green run button (3) and hold for two seconds to test the remote transmitter buzzer, vibrator and indicator
lights.

30-4 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Lockout Button
When transmitter is on: 2
Press and release the red lockout button (2) to send a lockout command to stop drill string
rotation, thrust, and pullback and fluid flow.
When transmitter is off:
Press and hold lockout button until the yellow light flashes. This turns on the remote
transmitter, then sends a lockout command.
When the machine has confirmed successful lockout, the red light comes on, followed by
three short beeps (beep, beep, beep, pause) repeated three times (nine beeps total).
The Remote Lockout system can take up to five seconds to process the lockout. During this
time, the green lights flash. The lockout is not complete until the nine beeps occur and the
red light is on.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-5

Remote Lockout Indicators
Refer to “Remote Lockout Indicators,” page 20-7.

Fault Check/Processing Lights

When green and/or yellow lights flash and buzzers do not sound, the system is processing a transition from one
mode to another.
When only green lights flash on remote transmitter and machine console, the system is processing a lockout
request that has not yet been confirmed.
When the yellow light flashes on the transmitter and the alarm sounds continuously at the operator station, one
of two conditions is present:
• The transmitter is out of range.
Or
• No radio communication is occurring between the transmitter and the machine.
No communication means the transmitter is:
• Not turned on
Or
• Not functioning
If the remote transmitter is damaged and cannot be turned on, press the alarm cancel key. The yellow light
continues to flash, a reminder that the Remote Lockout system is not functioning or communicating. Contact
your Vermeer dealer for repair of the Remote Lockout system.
Refer to Troubleshooting section in the maintenance manual for more information.

30-6 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Hydraulic Disable or Engine Shutdown Option
1
The Remote Lockout system can operate as either a hydraulic disable (default) or an
engine shutdown system.
To switch between hydraulic disable and engine shutdown:
Step 1: From main menu screen, select drill setup.
Step 2: Press right arrow key until registration screen appears. 2

Step 3: On registration screen, select “RLO MODE” (1).

Step 4: Press plus (+) or minus (-) key (2) to choose option.

Auxiliary Engine Shutdown for Hydraulic Disable

To keep machine locked out during a confirmed hydraulic disable, the system monitors rotation and thrust
hydraulic pressures. If either hydraulic pressure increases to more than 500 psi (35 bar), or if the drilling fluid
system is turned on, engine will shut down. The engine cannot restart until run button on the remote
transmitter is pressed.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-7

Remote Lockout Tests
Perform Remote Lockout tests before drilling each day.

Hydraulic Disable Test

1
Step 1: Start machine and remain in operator’s seat. 2
Step 2: Press and hold black power button (1) for two seconds. 3
Step 3: Press and hold green run button (3) for two seconds. Green light comes on.
Machine is now in drill mode.
Step 4: Test thrust and rotation controls. They should work.
Step 5: Press and release red lockout button (2). Red light comes on.
Machine is now in lockout mode.
Step 6: Test lockout of thrust and rotation by moving thrust and rotation levers out of
neutral. Thrust and rotation must not function. If thrust or rotation moves, contact
your Vermeer dealer immediately.
Step 7: After successful lockout test, press and hold the green run button (3) for two
seconds to return to drill mode.

30-8 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Engine Shutdown Test
1
Step 1: Start machine and remain in operator’s seat. 2
Step 2: Press and hold black power button (1) for two seconds. 3
Step 3: Press and hold green run button (3) for two seconds. Green light comes on.
Machine is now in drill mode.
Step 4: Test thrust and rotation controls. They should work.
Step 5: Press and release red lockout button (2). Red light comes on and engine shuts
down.
Machine is now in lockout mode. Engine must shut down. If engine does not shut
down, or if the engine can be restarted with Remote Lockout system still in lockout
mode, contact your Vermeer dealer immediately.
Step 6: After successful lockout test, press and hold the green run button (3) for two
seconds to return to drill mode.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-9

Remote Lockout Transmitter Registration 1
Step 1: Turn on keyswitch. Engine need not be operating.
Step 2: On the machine display, select main menu.
Step 3: Select drill setup (1).
Step 4: On first setup screen, press right arrow key (2) until registration screen
appears.
Step 5: Select “REGISTER RLO” (3).
Step 6: Press lower left key (4) to exit.
Step 7: Turn remote transmitter on by holding black power button (5) until yellow
processing light (6) comes on. 3

Step 8: To put transmitter into registration mode, simultaneously press and hold
black power button (5) and red lockout button (7). Hold until green run
light (8) comes on and the yellow light goes off. 4 2

Step 9: Release buttons; the green light will go off and the yellow light will come
back on and quickly flash.
After 15 – 30 seconds more, the red lockout mode light (9) will come on. If the red
light fails to come on after two minutes, turn the remote transmitter off and start
over at Step 2. 5
6
8
Registration is now complete, and the machine is locked out. Standard Remote
Lockout procedures now apply. Press green run button (10) to run. 10

7
9

30-10 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Loss of Remote Lockout Transmitter Signal
Loss of signal indicates that the remote transmitter and machine are not
communicating with each other. Reasons for a loss of signal:
• Remote transmitter is too far from the machine [farther than 3,300 ft 1
(1 km)].
• Remote transmitter signal is blocked by an obstruction between the
transmitter and machine.
• Transmitter battery is fully discharged.
• Remote transmitter was turned on while machine was off.
• System is not operating correctly.
Range of signal can be significantly affected by obstructions, such as buildings or equipment located between the
remote transmitter and machine.
When a loss of signal occurs in lockout mode and the run button is pressed, icon (1) turns yellow and flashes and
the system remains in lockout mode.
When a loss of signal occurs in run mode, the yellow light flashes and the system continues to allow drill
operation. If lockout button is pressed, “failure to lock out” signal is given.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-11

Battery Condition
Low Battery
Low battery is only shown on the remote transmitter.
When approximately 10% of battery power is left, blue light (1) flashes. 1

Discharged Battery
If battery discharges and a loss of signal occurs in run mode, drilling continues
uninterrupted. If battery discharges in lockout mode, install a new battery and select run
mode before drilling can continue.

Recharge Battery
Install battery into charger (2) (located in the console next to the operator seat) and plug
charger cord into auxiliary outlet. Battery will recharge even when machine has been
shut down. A spare rechargeable battery may be kept in the charger for use in the event of
battery failure.
• Amber light on underside of charger is solid when battery is charging. 2
• Amber flashes slowly when battery is present but not charging.
• Amber light flashes quickly when battery is fully charged.
• Green light is solid if charger has power.
More chargers are available from your Vermeer dealer for charging the battery in another
vehicle.

30-12 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Remote Lockout System - Start
Step 1: Remove battery from charger and install in remote transmitter.
Step 2: Sit in the operator’s seat and turn keyswitch to run.
Step 3: Turn remote transmitter on by pressing power button and holding for two seconds.
Step 4: Press and hold run button for two seconds to select run mode.
Step 5: Follow Starting Procedure, page 50-1.

Remote Lockout System - Shutdown

If the machine is shut down in lockout mode, the remote transmitter must be available when machine starts up
to cancel lockout mode and enter run mode.
Step 1: Shut off machine and remove key.
Step 2: Press power button and hold for two seconds to shut off remote transmitter.
Step 3: Remove battery pack from remote transmitter and install in charger.
Step 4: Put remote transmitter in docking station.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-13

Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Unexpected startup possible.

Lock out before working on drill string.

Lock out the machine before entering an exit pit, changing tools, repairing drill rod, manually adding or
removing drill rod, or performing other work on the drill string or tools.
The Remote Lockout system will not shut down the power units on stand-alone drilling fluid systems or air
compressors. These external power units must be shut off manually.
The remote transmitter operator must use this lockout procedure.
Step 1: By radio, tell the machine operator that you intend to lock out the machine.
Step 2: Tell the machine operator to reduce engine speed to idle.

30-14 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 3: Press red lockout button (1) on remote transmitter. Wait for nine beeps to sound
and red lockout light to come on, which indicates lockout is successful. 1
Confirmation could take up to five seconds.
To ensure maximum communication range of the transmitter, lock out machine
before entering an exit pit.
Step 4: If lockout is not successful, a warning buzzer sounds, and transmitter vibrates for
60 seconds. The green light flashes until lockout is achieved or until lockout
command is canceled.
Never approach drill string or apply a tool to drill string until after:
• Remote Lockout is confirmed by the nine beeps.
• Red lockout light is on.
• Remote transmitter operator and machine operator have confirmed the lockout by radio.
Step 5: If lockout is unsuccessful with Remote Lockout system, use “Lockout procedure - without Remote
Lockout system.” Refer to page 30-17.
If a Remote Lockout command is not successful, ensure:
• Machine is running.
• Machine is in drill mode (operator seated at controls).
• Transmitter is within range.
If issue remains, contact your Vermeer dealer to determine the source of the issue.
The Remote Lockout system is not operational when the machine is in transport mode.
Step 6: When machine is successfully locked out, complete whatever work is required to change tools or repair
and replace drill rod or tooling.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-15

Resuming Operation After Remote Lockout
Step 1: Verify that drill rod and cutting tools are ready for operation.
Step 2: Warn everyone who may be exposed to drill string or cutting tools that operation 2
will resume.
Step 3: Confirm that everyone has evacuated the exit pit and is away from drill string and
cutting tools and that no wrenches or breakout tools are attached to drill string or
cutting tools.
Step 4: Press run button (2) on transmitter and hold for two seconds to return control of
drilling functions to the machine operator.
If run command is not successful and the Remote Lockout transmitter is within range,
communicate with the machine operator to find the cause. Remote Lockout system must be
repaired before the machine can resume drilling.
Step 5: By radio, tell machine operator that normal operation can start again.

30-16 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Unexpected startup possible.

Lock out before working on drill string.

Lock out the machine before entering an exit pit, changing tools, repairing drill rod, manually adding or
removing drill rod, or performing other work on the drill string or tools.
Step 1: Shut off machine and remove key.
Step 2: Take key to the exit location where work will be performed on drill string or cutting tools. The key
must remain at this location until startup is permitted.

Resuming Operation After Lockout

Step 1: Verify that drill string and cutting tools are ready for operation.
Step 2: Confirm that everyone has evacuated the exit pit and is away from drill string and cutting tools and
that no wrenches, tongs, or breakout devices are attached to drill string or cutting tools.
Step 3: Warn everyone who may be exposed to the drill string or cutting tools that operation will resume.
Step 4: Return key to the machine.
Step 5: Follow “Radio communication requirements” before startup. Refer to page 40-3.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-17

Drill Rod and Tools
Drill Rod
DANGER: Rotating drill string or cutters can kill.

Stay away from rotating drill string and cutting tool.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury will
result.

Use only drill rods, drilling tools and breakout device described in this manual or
approved by Vermeer Corporation.

Best practices when using drill rod and tools:

• Before using a new drill rod, tap drill rod against a hard surface, such as a wood block, to dislodge scale and
rust inside. Hard pounding of the rod ends on steel or rock will damage threads.
• Protect rod interiors. Install rod box cover when shutting down for the day and during transport.
• Clean rods before use. Refer to “Drill Rods - Clean and Store,” page 50-40.
• Refer to the fundamentals of horizontal directional drilling user’s guide for tool selection guides.

30-18 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Drill Tool Connections
Drill tools that must be removed to attach a backreamer to the drill string must have a manually threaded joint
with collar. Such tools are not torqued and do not require breakout tools to uncouple the joint.

Threaded Connections - Hex and QuickFire® Connection System

Connect
6
Step 1: Clean all connecting surfaces. 1
5 2 3
Step 2: Apply small amount of grease to threads (1).
Step 3: Slide hex coupler (2) completely onto starter
rod (3).
Step 4: Turn tool (5) into starter rod (3) hand-tight.
Step 5: Align flats and slide hex coupler (2) back over 4
hole and onto tool (5).
Step 6: Install and tighten cap screw (6) in tapped hole (4) to hold hex coupler in place.

Disconnect
Step 1: Remove cap screw (6).
Step 2: Tap hex coupler (2) with hammer to loosen. Apply heat, if necessary, to loosen coupler.
Step 3: Unthread tool (5).

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-19

Drill Tool Assemblies 3
4 5
Refer to fundamentals of horizontal directional 5
drilling manual for tool selection guidelines. 5 1

Drilling Head Assembly

Step 1: Choose a bill (1) to match soil
conditions, preferred hole size, and
type of service.
Step 2: Attach bill to drill head (2) using 2
mounting bolts (3). Torque bolts to
35 ft-lb (47 Nm) (5 bolt pattern).
Torque bolts to 80 ft-lb (108 Nm) (6
bolt pattern).
Step 3: Follow instructions for transmitter (4) battery installation and check function of transmitter. A
variety of transmitters will fit inside drill head cavity.
Step 4: Protect the transmitter from side load shock in one of two ways:
• Install three O-rings (5) or
• Wrap electrical tape at each end and in center of transmitter to protect it from side load shock
Step 5: Install transmitter in drill head cavity.

30-20 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 WARNING: Eye protection must be worn when removing and installing roll pins.
Serious eye injury can occur if struck by steel chips from the hammer, punch, or roll
pin.

Step 6: Install drill head cover (6) and

8
secure with retaining pins (7) and
6 8
roll pins (8).

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-21

Armor® Drill Housing Assembly
Step 1: Attach housing (1) to drill string starter rod. Refer to
“Threaded Connections - Hex and QuickFire® Connection
System,” page 30-19.
3
Step 2: Use instructions of transmitter for battery installation and
check function of transmitter. A variety of transmitters fit
inside the drill head cavity.
5 4
Step 3: Install front (2) and rear (3) isolators over ends of
transmitter. Isolator (3) with larger notch goes in rear.
Step 4: Place transmitter into transmitter cavity, ensuring 2
clocking key (4) engages slot in the front of transmitter.
Step 5: Install screw (5).

30-22 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 6: Install cover (6) and roll pin (7).
Step 7: Install O-ring (8), then bit (9) onto housing. Insert solid
cross pin (10) chamfer first. Hammer only on the rounded
side of the pin.
Step 8: Install socket head cap screws (11). 6

The Armor system housing assembly with all its components can be
assembled and disassembled using multi-tool and a hammer. Refer
to the next page.

11

10
9

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-23

Armor Multi-tool
Remove end cap (1) from handle of multi-tool and remove
components.
• Screwdriver (2) - Used to scrape debris from holes in housing
and bit.
1

• Hex shaft (3) - Used to install and remove socket head cap
screw that secures lid and bit cross pin. Slides into hexed hole 3
(4). Use handle and wedge section for leverage to turn hex 4 6
shaft. 2

• 3/8 in drive pin (5) - Used to insert and extract bit cross pin and
push out rotary teeth on Gauntlet bit. Slides into countersunk
hole (6).

• 1/2 in drive pin (7) - Used to insert and extract 1/2 in roll pin
used to secure lid. Slides into countersunk hole (6).
5

30-24 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Rotary Tooth Installation/extraction - Gauntlet Bit
Installation
6
Align tooth shaft with mounting hole on bit. Place countersunk
hole (6) over tooth. Hammer on back side of multi-tool, seating
tooth fully.
Extraction
Using the 3/8 in drive pin (5), push teeth out from the bit, fully
exposing groove on tooth. Slide u-shaped open end (8) of multi-tool 10
onto tooth groove. Hammer on back of multi-tool.
Front attachment removal
Step 1: Remove socket head cap screw and solid cross pin from 5
bit.
Step 2: Rotate drill housing assembly so transmitter cavity is 8
9
facing down.
Step 3: Place wedge (9) between housing and bit and hammer
on flat (10) above wedge.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-25

PVC Pipe Pulling (Option)
The PVC puller assembly is used to pull PVC pipe back through the bored hole. Three different sizes of PVC pipe can
be pulled by using the respective size pulling kits for 2 in, 3 in or 4 in PVC pipe.

8
2 1 6 4
4 5 7

Step 1: Assemble pipe lengths (if more than one) with the PVC puller (1).
Step 2: Pass pull chain (5) through pipe.
Step 3: Assemble PVC puller to backreamer with a clevis pin (2) and cotter pin (3).
Step 4: Connect pull chain to PVC puller with a quick link (4).
Step 5: Pull chain tight between the puller and tensioner (6) with nylon strap (7) and ratchet (8).
Step 6: Connect tensioner anchor chain to pull chain with a quick link (4).
NOTICE: Over tensioning could buckle or break the pipe.
Step 7: Release ratchet.
Step 8: Pull pipe into the bore.
Step 9: After backreaming is complete, release tension on quick link with the ratchet. If ratchet will not release
tension, cut the link with a saw or bolt cutter.

30-26 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Reamer Installation
Swivel
The reamer must have a swivel to prevent trailed rod from turning while reaming. If reamer does not have a
built-in swivel, install an external swivel. The operation section contains information on swivel installation and
Safety. Refer to page 50-33.

Reamer Carrier - Intended Use

Vermeer reamer carriers are used to lift heavier reamers weighing more than 50 lb (23 kg). The carrier enables
installing or removing reamers at the exit site while the machine is locked out. The carrier holds the reamer,
which then can be turned by hand without rotating the drill string.

DANGER: Death or serious injury will result if you are struck by a wrench or entangled in
the drill string or reamer. Never rotate drill string while installing or removing a reamer.
Heavy reamers must be lifted using the Vermeer reamer carrier or similar device and
turned by hand while the machine is locked out.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-27

Reamer Carrier Styles
Vermeer part no. Weight limit Vermeer part no. Weight limit

296255-490 450 kg 296260-037 1100 kg

1000 lb 2400 lb

Reamer Carrier Components

1
The reamer carrier has a sliding frame (1) for adjustment to fit different size
reamers and drill tools. Remove hairpin and pin (2) to adjust slide. 2 4

The pin end (3) of reamer carrier, located at bottom of sliding frame, connects to
the reamer. Remove pin (4) to install other connectors for different reamer types.
These include swivel and several threaded connections.
At the opposite end of carrier, the reamer connector rests in a cradle with
replaceable wear pads (5).
3
Ensure reamer carrier connector is correct for reamer being used.

30-28 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Reamer Carrier - Install/Remove
Using the reamer carrier requires two persons, one to attach and guide reamer carrier 3
and one to operate the lifting device. Vermeer recommends that two persons work
together to install the reamer carrier onto the reamer.
To install reamer carrier:
1
Step 1: Remove hairpin (1) and pin. Remove sliding frame from end of reamer
carrier.
Step 2: Remove pin (2). Attach back side (often swivel end) of reamer to connector
and reinsert pin.
2
Step 3: Slide frame bar into sliding frame, inserting cradle underneath reamer as
shown.
Step 4: When cradle is positioned securely beneath connector end of reamer, install pin and hairpin (1).

Reamer Carrier - Lift

Step 1: Lock out drill.
Step 2: Attach chain to lift points (3) on reamer carrier.
Step 3: Securely attach chain to hook on a suitable lifting device, such as an excavator.
Step 4: Carefully lift reamer carrier and align reamer with drill string.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-29

Turnbuckle - Adjust 1
A turnbuckle (1) may be used for angular adjustment of reamer to drill string. Use
appropriate-sized chain and turnbuckle for reamer and reamer carrier weight.

WARNING: Do not lift a reamer that exceeds the weight limit of the carrier.

WARNING: Falling load can injure you.

Do not work under raised load.

30-30 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Reamer - Connect
Threaded Connection
Step 1: Lock out drill.
Step 2: Clean components.
Step 3: Lubricate threaded end of reamer.
Step 4: Align reamer with drill string and manually turn reamer until reamer is threaded onto drill string.
Step 5: Remove reamer carrier.
Step 6: Use portable breakout system to tighten connection. Refer to “Pbd11500 Portable Breakout Device,”
page 60-4. Refer to this chart for makeup torque.
NOTICE: If using an API crossover connector (1), correct makeup torque of the crossover
sub to the reamer is important. Failure to torque API joints to these minimum
specifications can result in joint separation or other failures of tooling. In some cases, a
Portable breakout system is required for correct torque.

API connection size Minimum makeup torque Suggested maximum

operating torque

2-3/8 in API Regular 1,560 ft-lb (2 115 Nm) 2,600 ft-lb (3 525 Nm)

2-7/8 in API Regular 3,000 ft-lb (4 070 Nm) 5,000 ft-lb (6 780 Nm) 1

3-1/2 in API Regular 7,200 ft-lb (9 765 Nm) 12,000 ft-lb (16 270 Nm)

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-31

Manually Threaded Joint And Collar
Step 1: Lock out drill.
Step 2: Clean components.
Step 3: Lubricate threaded end of reamer.
Step 4: Align reamer with drill string and
manually turn reamer to begin
threading reamer into rod.
Step 5: Continue manually threading 1
reamer onto rod until shoulders
touch. Then back off to align to the
nearest flat (1).
Step 6: Slide hex collar over the connection,
then install cap screw. Torque to 35 ft-lb (47.5 Nm).

Reamer Carrier Wear Pads - Replace

Replace wear pads (1) when worn.
Step 1: Remove four bolts and worn pad.
Step 2: Install new pad.
Step 3: Install bolts; torque to 10 ft-lb (13.6 Nm).

30-32 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Rod Loading
Rod Box - Load

1
2

Remove pins (1) and open rod box cover (2) to manually remove or return rods to rod box.
Load rods with male threads to the front.
Close rod box cover and secure with pins to contain rods in box during transport.
Inspect rods before use to verify they do not contain rust or debris, which could plug the drill head.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-33

Drill Rods - Add to Drill String

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury will
result. Always use the power vise to make or break joints at the machine.

Step 1: Drive drill rod fully into ground. Stop rotation.

Step 2: Engage front vise. Drilling fluid turns off automatically.
Step 3: Use thrust joystick to move carriage rearward 1.75 in (4.4 cm) to
let gearbox float back as rod unthreads.
Step 4: Rotate drive chuck in reverse to unthread drill rod.
Step 5: Move carriage back to align threads with auto greaser nozzle or
within reach for hand greasing. Grease drive chuck threads.
Step 6: Move drive head fully back.
1
Step 7: Retrieve a drill rod from rod box and bring into drilling position.
Place front of rod in rear vise and rear of rod in cradle (1).
Step 8: Clean drill rod joints with a spray wand to remove any dirt or
debris.

30-34 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 9: Lubricate threads of drill rod pin to be added. Refer to lubricants section in maintenance manual.
NOTICE: Keep electrically insulated gloves from touching thread lube. Petroleum-based products will
chemically damage the rubber insulating gloves.
Step 10: Slowly thread drive chuck into rod. Gearbox will move forward as joint tightens.

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Do not hold drill rod by hand when
rotating drive chuck to thread rod joints.

Step 11: With minimum thrust, full rotation and with front vise clamped on downhole rod, thread upper rod
into lower rod, and tighten joint to 3,500 psi (241 bar) reading on display (automatically limited).
Step 12: Release front vise. Drilling fluid will turn on automatically.
Step 13: Drill rod into ground.
Step 14: Repeat procedure to add additional rod.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-35

Drill Rods - Remove From Drill String

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Do not hold drill rod by hand when
rotating drive chuck to thread rod joints.

The floating gearbox will move back as

1
joints unthread.
2
Step 1: Move gearbox back until
front rod joint is centered
between front (1) and rear
(2) drill rod vises [pointer (3)
on gearbox aligns with
indicator (4)].
Step 2: Engage front vise. Drilling 3
fluid turns off automatically. 4
Step 3: Push rear vise switch (5) up.
Press vise rotation button (6), then push rear vise switch down to disengage
and rotate vise back to home position.
5

30-36 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 4: With drive chuck in reverse, unthread rod.
Step 5: Move gearbox back until rod is clear of front vise.
Step 6: Engage rear vise.
Step 7: Use thrust joystick to move carriage rearward 1.75 in (4.4 cm) to let gearbox float back as rod
unthreads.
Step 8: Rotate drive chuck in reverse to unthread drill rod.
Step 9: Release rear vise. Return rod to rod box.
Step 10: Move gearbox forward until drive chuck threads are aligned with auto greaser nozzle or with reach to
hand grease. Grease drive chuck threads.
Step 11: Thread drive chuck into next rod.
Step 12: Release front vise.
Step 13: Retract drill rod.
Step 14: Repeat steps to remove additional rods from drill string and return rods to rod box.

Locator System
The ability to locate the drill head is important. Failure to use correct locating techniques can result in the drill
head becoming lost, coming out in the wrong location or missing the intended target altogether. Refer to the
Fundamentals of Horizontal Directional Drilling User’s Guide for information on locator systems.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-37

Vise Operating Guidelines

WARNING: Pinch points in vise can crush.

Keep hands away.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury will
result. Always use the power vise to make or break joints at the machine.

• Inspect vise jaws and grips and replace worn or damaged components before drilling.
• Stake drill unit down securely. If rack shifts during drilling, the rod will become misaligned between the
jaws. Check alignment to prevent jaw or rod damage.
• Do not rotate a clamped rod.
• Do not thrust a rod through a closed vise.
• Keep rod centered between guide rollers. Do not continue the bore unless rod is centered between rollers.

30-38 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Drilling Fluid 1
Drilling fluid increases drilling efficiency in several ways.
Refer to Fundamentals of Horizontal Directional Drilling
User’s Guide for drilling fluid and drilling fluid system 4
information. 2 3

Drilling Fluid Pump Output Flow

Push drilling fluid on/off switch (1) up to turn on fluid flow.
Press and hold full flow button (2) for full flow. The screen
displays drilling fluid pressure (3) and flow rate (4).

Adding Antifreeze to Drilling Fluid System

Store RV-type antifreeze in tank. It can be reused as necessary. Replace antifreeze
when it is too diluted to protect system.
Step 1: Drain and flush drilling fluid tank and pump. Refer to “Flushing
Bentonite/Polymers from Drilling Fluid System,” page 50-40. 1

Step 2: Fill tank with RV-type antifreeze. Use at full strength; it will become
diluted as it is used.
Step 3: Open dump valve (1).
Step 4: Operate pump until antifreeze comes out of drive chuck.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Overview 30-39

 Step 5: Connect wash wand to quick coupler (2). Wash wand is enabled when
operator is out of the seat and wash wand mode has been selected with
drill/wash wand key (3). Flow then defaults to 10 gpm (38 L/min).

WARNING: High pressure water can penetrate skin.

Serious injury possible.
Fluid injected under the skin must be removed 2
immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury.

Keep nozzles away from body.

Step 6: Spray fluid into tank until antifreeze is visible in the spray from wand.
Step 7: Close valve.
Step 8: Follow Shutdown Procedure, page 50-4.
Step 9: Point wash wand away from people and squeeze handle to release pressure
remaining in wand.
Step 10: Remove wash wand from drilling fluid pump quick coupler and store wash
wand. 3

30-40 Overview D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 40: Preparation
Preparing Personnel
Operator Qualifications

WARNING: Read operator’s manual and safety signs, and watch the operations and
safety video, before operating machine.

Allow only responsible, correctly instructed individuals to operate machine.

Become familiar with the controls, operation, and use of the machine under the supervision of a trained and
experienced operator.
The operator must be familiar with the workplace’s safety rules and regulations and must be mentally and
physically capable of operating the machine safely.

Safety Conscious Operators and Workers

Operators and workers must use reasonable accident-prevention measures. This includes correctly locating all
underground utilities.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-1

Training
Before operating the drill unit, train the operator and crew in the operation of horizontal directional drills.
Conduct initial training at a site free of underground utilities and cover:
• All sections of this manual and the fundamentals of horizontal directional drilling user’s guide
• Processes and procedures used to locate underground utilities
• Jobsite safety, including safety barriers and protective clothing, as well as operating and emergency
procedures
• Machine lockout procedure and Remote Lockout system
• Two-way radio communication
• Transportation of drill unit
• Setup of drill unit
• Drilling and backreaming, including selection and installation of tools

Safety Signs and Operating Instructions

Safety signs and operating instructions provide information on potential safety hazards and safe operating
instructions.

40-2 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Radio Communication Requirements
The Remote Lockout system is not intended to replace good verbal radio communication. Radio communication
is essential to the Remote Lockout system process.

WARNING: Proper communication is essential to prevent unplanned startup of

the drill string and/or tool. Death or serious injury could result. Always follow
communication requirements as explained below.

Use good quality two-way radios with sufficient range to provide clearly understood communication. Test radios
at the site so that communications can be heard above background noise.
Assign the radio at the exit location to one designated person. This person will always communicate with the
machine operator.
When sending a message, identify yourself and the receiver by name. This prevents confusion if more than one
machine is operating on a worksite.
The receiver must confirm all radio messages. Confirmation from the receiver must acknowledge that the
message was received and correctly understood. Demonstrate correct understanding by repeating the original
message back to the sender. The sender must always require confirmation of the message.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-3

Radio Communication to Stop Drilling Operation
When the crew at the location of the exposed drill string or tool requests the operator to stop operation:
Step 1: The crew must communicate a stop command to the operator.
Step 2: When stop command is received, the operator must immediately stop the machine. After machine has
stopped, the operator must return a message confirming that the message was received and
understood.

Radio Communication to Resume Drilling Operation

If startup is requested by the machine operator:
Step 1: The operator must request authorization from the crew at the location of the exposed rod or tool to
resume rotation or thrust.
Step 2: The crew at the location of the exposed rod or tool must respond as appropriate, but must not give
authorization to resume until everyone is away from the rod or cutting tool and everyone has been
informed that startup will occur.
Step 3: If authorization to resume has been received by the machine operator, the operator must require
confirmation for startup from the crew at the exit location.
Step 4: When confirmation is received, the operator may resume operation.
If startup is requested by the crew at the location of the exposed rod or tool:
Step 1: After checking that everyone at the location of the exposed rod or tool is away from the cutting tool and
everyone has been informed that startup will occur, a startup command may be sent to the operator.
Step 2: When the startup command is received, the operator must return a message confirming that the
message was received and understood.
Step 3: The crew at the location of the exposed rod or tool must respond by providing confirmation of the
machine operator's intention to start up.
Step 4: When confirmation is received, the operator may resume operation.

40-4 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Personal Protection

WARNING: Wear personal protective equipment. To reduce the risk of being caught
and entangled in moving components, wear close-fitting clothing and confine long
hair. Avoid jewelry, such as rings, wristwatches, necklaces or bracelets.

Operating the machine requires you to wear protective equipment. Always wear a hard hat, wraparound eye
protection, or goggles and electrically insulated boots. If working near traffic, you may need to wear reflective
clothing.
Anyone working on the ground around the machine is required to wear electrically insulated boots. If you are on
the ground and in contact with the machine, then you are required to also wear electrically insulated gloves.
This includes crew members loading or unloading drill rod.
The operator is not required to wear electrically insulated gloves while seated on the machine. However, the
operator must always wear electrically insulated boots to provide protection against electrical shock in case of
inadvertently stepping off the machine during an electrical strike.
The operator must wear hearing protection. Other crew members may need to wear hearing protection when
working close to the machine and/or support equipment. Anyone helping drill operator who touches the machine
while drilling must wear electrically insulated gloves and boots.
Other workers in the immediate area must also wear a hard hat, eye protection, and electrically insulated boots.
The drilling tool locator must wear electrically insulated boots. The ground may become electrically charged if a
strike occurs.
Wear close-fitting clothing and confine long hair.
Do not wear jewelry, such as rings, wristwatches, necklaces or bracelets.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-5

Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage IV)

The stated sound levels are representative for a given operating condition. Operating conditions may
vary at each worksite. The actual sound levels for your application and operating conditions may be
different.
Equivalent continuous a-weighted sound pressure as specified by ISO 6394:
At operator’s ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 dB(A)
Guaranteed sound power level as determined by directive 2000/14/EC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 dB(A)
Hand/Arm vibration level as determined by ISO 5349
Left hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 2.5 m/s2
Right hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 2.5 m/s2
Whole body vibration level as determined by ISO 2631-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 0.5 m/s2

40-6 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage V)

The stated sound levels are representative for a given operating condition. Operating conditions may
vary at each worksite. The actual sound levels for your application and operating conditions may be
different.
Equivalent continuous a-weighted sound pressure as specified by ISO 6394:
At operator’s ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 dB(A)
Guaranteed sound power level as determined by directive 2000/14/EC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 dB(A)
Hand/Arm vibration level as determined by ISO 5349
Left hand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 2.5 m/s2
Right hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 2.5 m/s2
Whole body vibration level as determined by ISO 2631-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . less than 0.5 m/s2

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-7

Call Your One-Call System First
WARNING: Striking an electrical line can cause electrocution. Striking gas line can
cause an explosion. Cutting a fiber optic cable could result in eye damage caused by
laser light. Death or serious injury possible.

Locate utilities before digging. Call 811, 1-888-258-0808, or access www.call811.com,

(U.S. only); or contact local utility companies or national regulating authority.

Before you start any digging project, contact the local One-Call system in your area and any utility company
that does not subscribe to the One-Call system. For areas not represented by One-Call Systems International,
contact the appropriate utility companies or national regulating authority to locate and mark underground
installations. If all utilities are not properly located, you may have an accident or suffer injuries; cause
interruption of services; damage the environment; or experience job delays.
The One-Call representative will notify participating utility companies of your proposed digging activities.
Utilities will then mark their underground facilities by using the following international marking codes:
Red Electric Green/Brown Sewer
Yellow Gas, oil, or petroleum White Proposed excavation
Orange Communication, telephone, TV Pink Surveying
Blue Potable water

OSHA CFR 29 1926.651 requires that the estimated location of underground utilities be determined before
beginning excavation or underground drilling operation. When actual excavation or bore approaches an
estimated utility location, the exact location of the underground installation must be determined by a safe,
acceptable, and dependable method. If utility cannot be precisely located, it must be shut off by the utility
company.

40-8 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Electrical Shock Protection

DANGER: Electric shock can kill.

If strike occurs, do not step down. Keep feet on platform while operating.

DANGER: Contact with the drilling machine while standing on the ground could result
in electrocution if an electrical strike occurs. Do not touch the drill unit or remote fluid
mixing system while drilling or after an electrical strike occurs. See other portions of
this manual regarding procedures and personal protection equipment to avoid
electrocution.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-9

Electrocution Prevention
Electrocution is possible. Death or serious injury may result if the drilling tool strikes an energized power line.
Refer to the operating instructions and take these precautions to prevent electrocution:
• Call your One-Call system and any utility company that does not subscribe to the One-Call system, before
the start of your drilling project. Locate underground utilities by qualified persons.
• When drilling operation approaches the estimated location of a utility, determine the exact location of the
underground installation by safe and acceptable means.
• Always wear the necessary electrically insulated gloves and boots that are required for each job function.
Refer to Electrically insulated gloves and Electrically insulated boots on the following pages.
• Never stand on the ground and touch metal parts on drilling unit or water truck when operating.
• If a strike occurs, do not step off or onto machine.
• Always test Strike Alert system before the start of every bore. Refer to “Strike Alert System - Test,” page 50-12.
Never operate if Strike Alert system is not in operation and tested.
• Disconnect from public water supply before drilling where electrical cables may be buried.
If a strike occurs while you are touching the ground, you could be electrocuted when your body becomes a direct
current path to the ground. Keep feet on the foot platform.
Anyone assisting the operator while standing on the ground during the bore must wear electrically insulated
gloves and boots.
The drilling tool locator must wear electrically insulated boots. The ground may become electrically charged if a
strike occurs.

40-10 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Electrically Insulated Gloves
If electrically insulated gloves are not available locally, they can be obtained through Vermeer Corporation.
Rubber electrically insulated gloves, when in good condition and correctly used, help protect the wearer from
serious injury, death, and electrical burns. Gloves must be at least Class 2, with a voltage rating of 17,000 volts
or more. Wear leather protectors over gloves. They protect the gloves, but do not protect against serious injury,
death or other potential dangers from electric shocks or burns.
The operator is not required to wear electrically insulated gloves while seated on this self-contained directional
drill unit. Anyone helping install rack anchor stakes or helping the operator during drilling must wear
electrically insulated gloves and boots.
Correct care of gloves is important to wearer safety.
• Visually inspect gloves and leather protectors prior to each use (see the following instructions).
• Do not fold gloves. Folding causes dangerous cracking damage. Store gloves in glove bag when not in use.
• Do not store gloves inside out. This causes damage from ozone and severely strains the rubber.
• Keep gloves clean. The gloves will be more comfortable to wear and any damage will be more visible.
• Prevent snags. Do not wear rings, watches, jewelry, or other sharp objects on hands or arms when wearing
gloves.
• Prevent contact with wood or metal splinters or other sharp objects, which may damage gloves.
• Prevent contact with chemicals, which can damage gloves. If contact is made, wipe gloves off immediately.
Clean gloves with a mild soap, then rinse with clear water and let them air dry.
The ASTM In-Service specifications call for an electrical retest of gloves at a test lab every six months. This test
is to recertify the nonconductivity of the gloves. Contact your Vermeer dealer for the location of the test lab in
your area or a listing of the test labs.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-11

Electrically Insulated Gloves - Inspect
Visually inspect insulated gloves and leather protectors before each use.
• Check for signs of physical damage or chemical deterioration such as swelling, softness, hardening,
stickiness, ozone, deterioration or sun-checking from prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Check whether red or yellow inner layer shows through black outer layer, indicating gloves have been cut or
snagged. If damaged at all, do not use them.
• Check leather protectors. Look for metal particles, embedded wire, abrasive materials, or other substances
that could cause puncture, abrasion, contamination, or deterioration. Maintain adequate flashover distance
of 2 in (5 cm) between the top of protector and the bead of rubber glove. Minimum uncovered distance must
be 1 in (2.5 cm) above the protector cuff top for each 10,000 volts.
• Check insides of each glove and air test for pinholes:
Step 1: Place glove on your hand and pull cuff up over your fingers, turning glove inside out.
Step 2: Holding glove downward, grasp cuff and twirl it upward toward your body to close the cuff.
Step 3: Squeeze rolled cuff into a U shape to trap air inside glove. Hold cuff with one hand and squeeze glove
with your other hand. Hold glove near your ear and listen and feel for air escaping through a hole. Pop
out glove fingers by squeezing inflated glove and check for damage.
Step 4: Turn glove right side out.
Step 5: Repeat with other glove.

40-12 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Electrically Insulated Boots
If electrically insulated boots are not available locally, they can be obtained through Vermeer Corporation. A
two-pair purchase voucher is supplied with the machine.
Rubber electrically insulated boots, when in good condition and correctly used, also protect the wearer from
serious injury, death, and electrical burns. The boots must meet or exceed electrical hazard protection
requirements when tested at 14,000 volts.
Inspect boots before each use. Check for cracking, holes, and unusual wear on the sole. If damaged, discard
boots. Damaged boots will not provide adequate electrical protection.
After each use, rinse boots with water to remove mud, chemicals, and debris. Because of the natural rubber in
the boots, it is important to use a rubber protectant or furniture polish to keep rubber soft and help prevent
pinholes, stress cracks, dry rotting, and ozone deterioration.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-13

Strike Alert System Functions
The Strike Alert system is only a warning device, not a protective device.
The Strike Alert system detects voltage on the machine and/or current running through the drill string in the
event of drill striking an underground power line. An alarm sounds alerting operator and other personnel of a
potentially dangerous situation.
The Strike Alert system will not be set off by coming near a power source. If the Strike Alert system horn
sounds, the drill may have contacted an energized electrical line. Other indications of an electrical strike are
electrical arcing, explosion, smoke, or popping noises.
When an electrical strike occurs, large voltage differences may exist on the ground surface near machine and
along drill string. Standing or walking in these areas may cause electrical shock from the difference in voltage
between your feet. Anyone in the work area, including the locator, must wear electrically insulated boots. Keep
all other personnel away from work area.

Soil Conductivity
For the system to function correctly, voltage stake must be fully inserted in soil through which a current can
pass. If the machine is on asphalt or concrete, a hole may need to be cut for the stake and moisten the soil
around the stake.
To improve the conductivity of dry and loose sand or dry soil:
• Ensure voltage stake is fully inserted into the ground and soak soil around stake with water.
• Wet soil around rack where it contacts ground.
• If machine is equipped with stakedowns, insert stakes into ground.

40-14 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Preparing The Machine
Operator Presence System
The machine is equipped with an operator presence system. The track drive will not function if the operator is
seated at the controls. Thrust and rotation controls will not function if operator is not in the seat. This system is
intended for your safety and must be maintained in good functional condition.

Remote Lockout System Preparation

Remote Transmitter - Prepare
Step 1: Use a fully charged battery at the beginning of each day. Approximate operational time for the battery
is 30 hours.
Step 2: Press power button to turn remote transmitter on.
Step 3: Test Remote Lockout system at the machine (refer to the next page).
Step 4: Clip remote transmitter onto user’s belt. Keep the transmitter on throughout the bore.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-15

Remote Lockout System - Test
Test Remote Lockout system at least once daily and at the start of every bore.
Machine operator must be seated for machine to be in drill mode. The Remote Lockout system is not operational
when machine is in transport mode.
Complete these steps with transmitter located near the machine.
Step 1: Start engine and turn on remote transmitter.
Step 2: Press lockout button on remote transmitter. The red light must come on and buzzer must sound nine beeps
to indicate that the machine is locked out.
Step 3: Machine operator must attempt to begin drilling. Drilling functions should remain stopped (locked out).
Step 4: Press run button and hold for two seconds. Green light comes on and buzzer sounds for two seconds.
Operator will be able to resume drilling.
If test is not successful, ensure transmitter is within range, and that machine is running and is in drill mode (operator
seated at controls). If an issue still exists, contact your Vermeer dealer to determine source and use the Lockout
procedure - without Remote Lockout system until the Remote Lockout system is repaired. Refer to page 30-17.

40-16 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Preparing the Work Area
Jobsite - Check
The operator or job supervisor should inspect the worksite for:
• Notices of underground placements
• Inspection hatch covers
• Drop boxes
• Recent trenching activity
• Evidence of possible underground placements
• Obstructions
Examine work area for conditions or situations, which may impair machine operation or create a safety hazard.
Use information in this manual and your own good judgment to identify and prevent these hazards.

Safety Cones
Check that safety cones with warning safety signs are available for placement around the drill unit work area.
Four safety cones are provided. Refer to “Safety Cones,” page 50-17.

Power Line Locator System

A locator system to locate underground power lines is not included with the system but may be purchased from
Vermeer dealerships.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Preparation 40-17

Laws and Regulations - Check
Know and obey all national, state, and local laws and regulations that apply to your work situation.

Planning the Bore

Carefully plan the bore before drilling. Refer to fundamentals of horizontal directional drilling user’s guide for
information on bore planning.

40-18 Preparation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 50: Operation
Starting Procedure

WARNING: Read operator’s manual and safety signs, and watch the operations and
safety video, before operating machine.

Starting the Engine

Step 1: Shut off drilling fluid pump.
Step 2: Put rotation and thrust/pullback joysticks in neutral.
Step 3: Turn key to on. Wait for preheat light to disappear before starting engine.
Step 4: Turn key to start or press start button until engine starts, or until the ECU locks the start function.
The ECU locks out the start function after two minutes.
A fault code flashes if fuel or oil pressure is too low. The engine will not turn over
if the fuel pressure is low.
Step 5: If the ECU locks out starting, turn key to off for two minutes, then try again.
Step 6: Adjust throttle to get an even idle speed and allow engine to warm up for three – five minutes.
NOTICE: When engine reaches operating temperature, do not idle engine for more than five minutes. Low
combustion chamber temperatures may not burn fuel completely. This can dilute crankcase oil and permits
formation of gummy deposits on valves, pistons and piston rings.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-1

 Step 7: Turn remote transmitter on.
The Remote Lockout system self-tests upon startup, indicated by two short beeps and then enters whatever
mode it was in when the machine was shut down.
Step 8: If machine was shut down in lockout mode, press run button and hold for two seconds to select run mode.
Step 9: Press hydraulic enable button.

WARNING: Pressing hydraulic enable button will result in vise movement if the vise control switch positions
were changed while the engine was off. Crushing injury may result. Keep everyone clear of machine.

NOTICE: Only operate engine with hood fully closed. A partially open hood may allow hot exhaust gases to come in
contact with the hood insulation, resulting in damage.

50-2 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Cold Weather Starting
Engine
Before operating in cold weather, refer to the engine operation manual for
recommended engine oil, fuel, and starting procedures.
On a cold engine, turn keyswitch to start for approximately five seconds to activate 1
glow plugs. Preheat light (1) will come on. Wait to start until icon disappears.

Hydraulic Fluid
Refer to “Hydraulic Fluid Requirements,” page 70-3.
When using ISO 68 hydraulic fluid below +23°F (-5°C) or ISO 100 hydraulic fluid below +41°F (+5°C):
• Warm up engine.
• Gradually increase engine rpm for up to 30 minutes to allow hydraulic oil to warm up.
• After engine and fluid are warm, slowly move control levers back and forth to help warm the hydrostatic
system. Slow down engine if hydraulic pump makes a high-pitched noise because it does not get enough oil.
For frequent starts below 10°F (-12°C), consult your Vermeer dealer.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-3

Shutdown Procedure
Step 1: Shut off drilling fluid pump.
Step 2: Reduce engine speed to idle.
Step 3: Wait one minute to shut off engine when shutting down after operating at full power.
Step 4: Shut off engine and remove key.
For your safety and the safety of others, use shutdown procedure before servicing, cleaning, unplugging, or
inspecting the machine.
If working on the drill string or drill tools at a remote location away from the machine, use correct lockout
procedure:
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Vary this procedure if instructed within this manual or if an emergency requires it.

50-4 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Transporting the Machine
Driving the Machine

WARNING: Rollover possible. Be alert and use extreme caution when you drive the
machine on hillsides, or near ditches, gullies, holes, or obstructions where rollover
could occur. Death or serious injury can result if you are crushed under the
machine. Do not allow anyone to be on the downhill side of the machine while
driving. Do not allow riders.

Drive the machine at a speed suitable for the terrain. Do not operate machine faster than you can comfortably
walk. Keep feet clear of the track when driving in reverse. Do not stop, start, or turn suddenly unless it is
necessary. Do not drive machine with rack elevated.

Driving the Machine with Remote Control

WARNING: Rollover can crush.

Stay uphill. No riding.

• Inspect area around machine before driving.

• Maintain clear visual contact with the machine and the direction of travel.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-5

 • Stay a safe distance away while driving and loading or unloading on a trailer.
• Always transport machine with carriage at back of machine.

Safe Operating Slope

Safe operating slope depends on:
• Machine weight distribution, including front loading or absence of load
• Height of load
• Even or rough ground conditions
• Potential for ground giving way, causing unplanned forward, reverse, or sideways tilt
• Nearness of ditches, ruts, stumps, or other obstructions and sudden changes in slope
• Speed
• Turning
• Braking performance
• Skill of operator
These factors make it impractical to specify a maximum safe operating angle in this manual. It is therefore
important for the operator to be aware of these conditions and adjust operation accordingly. Maximum engine
angle and braking performance are two absolute limits, which must never be exceeded. These maximum design
limits are stated below. These angles are not operating limits and therefore must never be used alone to
establish safe operating angles for your varying conditions.
• Maximum engine lubrication angle – 30°
• Service brake retarding force – equal to traction of both tracks
• Secondary brake – equal to traction of one track
• Park brake holding force – equal to traction of both tracks

50-6 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Preparing for Transport
• Store cable and voltage stake (2) in storage bracket (1) on drill unit.
• Install rod retainers in top of rod box to prevent drill rods from coming out of rod
box during trailering.
• Move carriage to rear of rack.
• Rotate operator console fully toward drill rack. 1

• Tilt seat up for transport position.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-7

Trailering the Machine
Loading/Unloading
Before transporting machine on a trailer, read trailer manual for safety precautions and information. Remove
unwanted material from trailer bed and ramps that could interfere with the loading process.

WARNING: Machine may slide down loading ramps or off trailer deck. Death or
serious injury can result if struck or crushed by machine. Do not load onto slick
trailer surface.

Make sure gross weight of machine is within gross weight limits of trailer and towing vehicle. Load and unload
machine with trailer on a level surface and with trailer attached to towing vehicle.
Step 1: Align centerline of machine with centerline of trailer to minimize steering while loading.

WARNING: Do not attempt to steer machine while its weight is balanced on the
end of the trailer. Slight steering changes may cause the machine to turn abruptly
and slide off the loading ramps. Death or serious injury can occur if crushed under
the machine.

Step 2: Set engine throttle at idle.

Step 3: Slowly drive machine squarely onto trailer.
When loading using the manual control levers, adjust the rack angle to keep levers at a comfortable
height and within reach.

50-8 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 4: Stop machine when tie-down position is reached. This position
distributes weight on the trailer as recommended by trailer
manufacturer.
Step 5: Lower rear stabilizer and drill rack frame.
Step 6: Follow Shutdown Procedure, page 50-4.

Step 7: Use tie-down points on the track frames (1) and at front of machine (2)
to secure drill unit to the trailer with chains and binders.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-9

Towing/Retrieving Machine
Never tow a disabled machine farther than is required. Tow to move the machine a
short distance to locate the machine out of traffic and to where repairs can be
performed safely.

WARNING: Death or serious injury could result when retrieving or towing 1

a disabled machine incorrectly.

NOTICE: Do not tow machine more than 500 ft (150 m) and do not exceed 1 mph (1.5 km/h).
Ground drive pumps must be bypassed before towing machine. Contact your local Vermeer dealer for assistance
in bypassing ground drive pumps.
• Attach towing cables to tie-down/towing lug (1) at front of machine.
• Limit towing angle to 10° or less.
• Use a towing machine with sufficient power, weight, and braking capacity to maintain control of the
disabled machine. The towing machine should be at least as large as the disabled machine.
• If retrieving on a downhill grade, use a second machine on the opposite end of the disabled machine to
prevent the disabled machine from overrunning the towing machine.
• Provide barriers to prevent injury to machine operators if cable fails. Keep anyone on the ground at least
two times the length of the cable away.
• Never try to jerk the disabled machine to get the machine to move. Sudden cable overload may cause
damage to the cable or the machine.
• Use only wire rope cable with sufficient strength. Inspect cable for fraying and wear. Do not use if frayed or
worn.
• The strength of the towing cable must be at least 150% of the pulling capacity of the towing machine.

50-10 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Lifting Machine
No provisions are made for lifting the machine. If transport requires that machine be lifted, it must be loaded
onto an appropriate skid.

Setup
Bore Path - Walk
Walk the bore path to look for signs of utility lines, potential causes of locator interference and general
assessment. Look for these signs that could indicate presence of utility lines:
• Ditch lines or depressions where the ground has settled from previous excavation
• Buildings that have lights but no overhead wires; the power lines may be buried in the bore path
• Patch repairs in the street, which could indicate digging to bury or repair a utility line
• Poles with wires extending into the ground, which might power traffic-sensing loops or traffic lights
• Inspection hatches, which can be used for utility line connections, not only for sewer connections
• Water and gas shutoff valves, likely indicators of utility lines in the area

Drill Unit Setup

Step 1: Move drill unit to site and position it for drilling.
Step 2: Completely lower rack.
Step 3: Lower rear stabilizers until rack is at desired angle.
Step 4: Inspect vise jaws and grips. Replace worn or damaged components before drilling. Refer to
Maintenance - as Required section in the Maintenance Manual.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-11

Strike Alert System - Test 1
Test the Strike Alert system before operating the drill unit. Do not
operate drill unless the Strike Alert test confirms the system is
operational.
Step 1: Ensure current sensing coil (1) and coil connectors are not
damaged.
2
Step 2: Unwind voltage stake cable. Ensure cable and connections
are clean and undamaged.
Step 3: Insert voltage stake (2) into the ground at least 6 ft (2 m)
away from machine. Do not route stake cable over the drill
string.
For the system to operate correctly, the voltage stake must be fully inserted into soil through which
voltage can pass. If the machine is on asphalt or concrete, the voltage stake must be inserted into the
ground. It may be necessary to cut a small hole for the stake and to moisten the soil around the stake.
If machine is on a dry hard surface, the stakedowns may need to be inserted into the ground and area
where the rack contacts the ground moistened. This increases electrical conductivity between machine
and ground.

50-12 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 4: Press and hold Strike Alert test key (3). The Strike Alert alarm must sound.
Release Strike Alert test key and alarm will stop.
3

A successful test is indicated when the symbol (4) turns green and remains
steady on after the Strike Alert test key is released.
The Strike Alert system is not functioning correctly if the symbol (4) is yellow
after the Strike Alert test key is pressed and released. 4
If the symbol is yellow, confirm the voltage stake is fully inserted into the
ground. Moisten the soil around the stake and where the rack contacts the
ground.
Retest the system. If the test fails, contact your Vermeer dealer.
The Strike Alert system automatically runs a system check whenever the
machine is powered up (ignition key turned from off to run). The alarm does not sound during the power-up
system check.
If Strike Alert module wire connection is faulty, symbol on the display disappears and a “Strike Alert offline”
fault is generated.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-13

Strike Alert - Indicators and Controls on Display
Indicator Indication Significance

Electrical strike is occurring, has occurred or test button

On
pressed and held.
Two-tone horn
Silent No voltage or current is detected above threshold.

Red symbol On Electrical strike is occurring.

Voltage stake is not in the ground.

Yellow symbol On Current sensor failed.

Voltage stake has wiring issue.

Green symbol On Power-up check or test passed. System is ready.

Control Function

Alarm cancel key Turns alarm off (only when voltage and current are not present)

Test key Tests sensors, controller, and alarm

50-14 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Machine - Anchor with Stakes

DANGER: Contact with drill unit while standing on the ground may result in
death or serious injury from electrical shock if anchor stakes make contact with
underground electric power.
• Drive anchor stakes only while seated at controls with both feet on platform.
• Keep everyone away from machine when anchors are being installed.

WARNING: Contact with moving anchor stakes can result in serious injury. Stay away
from rotating stakes. Ensure everyone is away from anchor stakes before operating.

While seated at the controls, drive stakes completely into the ground.

Locating Equipment - Prepare

Fully charge batteries or install new ones at the beginning of every day. Standard C batteries last up to 15
hours.
Some locating systems must be calibrated before drilling begins. Failure to do so could result in inaccurate depth
readings on the locator. Refer to literature provided with locator device.
It may be necessary to calibrate the locator while the drill head is lying on the ground with the transmitter in it.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-15

Rod Wiper - Install 1 3
Shut down and lock out machine before
installing rod wiper.
Use rod wiper (1) to clean drill rod when drilling.
Install rod wiper into rod wiper holder (2).
Wiper is split (3) to allow wiper to be removed
and installed with a spiral action while rod still
in the ground.
2

Entrance and Exit Sites - Prepare

WARNING: Do not work in trench with unstable sides which could cave in. Specific
requirements for shoring or sloping trench walls are available from several sources,
including federal and state O.S.H.A. offices. Be sure to contact suitable authorities for
these requirements before working in the trench.

If needed, dig entry and exit pits at the correct location and depth to correctly complete the bore.

50-16 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Safety Cones
Check that safety cones with warning safety signs are available for placement around drill unit work area.
Four safety cones are provided.
Set up safety cones around the machine with warning safety signs facing outward before starting operation.
The safety sign warns unauthorized persons to stay away.

DANGER: Electrically charged ground surface can kill.

Unauthorized persons must stay away.

Place pedestrian and traffic warning barriers around the jobsite in accordance with national, state, and local
laws and regulations.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-17

Pilot Bore
Read Overview Section
Read and become familiar with the Overview section before drilling. That section contains important information,
which is not repeated in this section. Refer to page 30-1.

Safety Precautions

DANGER: Contact with the drilling machine while standing on the ground could result in
electrocution if an electrical strike occurs. Do not touch the drill unit or remote fluid
mixing system while drilling or after an electrical strike occurs. See other portions of this
manual regarding procedures and personal protection equipment to avoid electrocution.

50-18 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Uility Line Contact
Electrical Line

DANGER: Striking an electrical line can energize machine, all connected equipment
and surrounding ground surface. Death or serious injury will result due to
electrocution to anyone contacting equipment. If strike occurs, do the following:
• Stay on machine; keep feet on platform.
• Contact utility company to shut off electrical power.
• Do not allow anyone to approach the machine or any connected
equipment.
• Anyone already on ground surface should move away using
small shuffling steps.
• Do not resume operation until utility company declares area
safe.

DANGER: Electric shock can kill.

Workers standing on the ground must not touch machine when alarm sounds.

If a strike occurs, do not allow anyone to approach machine. The machine and ground will be
electrically charged.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-19

 If seated on the machine:
• Do not get off machine. Contacting the machine and ground while stepping off may result in death or
serious injury.
• Fully retract drill or extend backreamer to break contact with the electrical power line.
• Have someone who is clear of the work area contact the utility company to shut off electrical power.
• Do not cancel Strike Alert alarm until utility company has confirmed that electrical power has been locked
out.
Do not continue drilling until utility company has declared the area safe to resume operation.

DANGER: If the power has not been properly shut off, an automatically resetting
circuit breaker could re-energize the power line, causing the equipment and ground
to again become charged if the drilling tool is close to, or in contact with, the power
line.

After utility company has shut off the power

Step 1: Press Strike Alert alarm cancel key to shut off alarm.
Step 2: Push Strike Alert test key to test Strike Alert system. The Strike Alert system is undamaged if alarm
sounds while key is pressed and green light remains on steady when the button is released. Releasing
Strike Alert test key silences alarm.
The Strike Alert system may not sense an electrical strike if the cutter shorts out a live voltage
phase directly to the ground wire of the same power line. The only indication that a strike has
occurred may be loss of power in the area.
If an underground power line is struck, it is possible to trip the power line circuit breaker, which will interrupt
electrical power to that line. Some circuit breakers automatically reset and will re-energize the line.

50-20 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 If horn has sounded and the alarm cancel key has been pressed, horn will stop if circuit breaker has not yet reset
automatically. Do not assume that power to the line has been permanently disconnected until there is
confirmation that the utility company has locked out power to that line.

Gas

DANGER: Gas explosion can kill. If you strike a gas line, shut off engine and evacuate area
immediately. Contact utility company and do not return until the utility company gives
permission to do so. Do not attempt to disengage drill tool from buried line.

Fiber Optic Cable

WARNING: Fiber optic cables carry laser light which may damage your eyes. Do not look
into the end. If you are not sure what kind of cable it is, do not look into the end. Contact
appropriate utility company for assistance.

Drill Head - Connect to Starter Rod

Step 1: Connect drill head to starter rod. Refer to “Drill Tool Connections,” page 30-19.
Step 2: Lubricate drive chuck threads and starter rod threads.
Step 3: Slide starter rod into front vise and clamp.
Step 4: Connect first drill rod to starter rod.
Refer to gauge and tighten rod joints to 3,000 psi (207 bar).
Step 5: Disengage front vise.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-21

Before the Bore

WARNING: Keep spectators away.

WARNING: Do not work in trench with unstable sides which could cave in. Specific
requirements for shoring or sloping trench walls are available from several sources
including federal and state O.S.H.A. offices. Be sure to contact suitable authorities for
these requirements before working in the trench.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury will
result. Always use the power vise to make or break joints at the machine.

50-22 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 DANGER: Rotating drill string or cutters can kill.

Keep away.

• If needed, dig an exit pit at the correct location and depth to correctly complete the bore.
• If the drill is starting at a shallow angle or the ground is hard, dig a small hole so drill bit can start drilling
perpendicular to the soil.
If drilling fluid additives are used, refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for handling precautions.

Drill Rod - Flush

1
If the drill rod has not been used within the last 24
hours, or if there is debris inside the drill rod,
slowly rotate rod and flush it with drilling fluid 3
4
before connecting it to the drill head.
Step 1: Press fluid on/off switch (1) on left 2
joystick to turn on fluid. Press full fluid
flow button (2) for full flow to fill drill
rod with fluid and keep the nozzle from
plugging.
Step 2: View drilling fluid flow (3) and drilling
fluid pressure gauge (4) on display.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-23

Drill Rod - Lubricate
Refer to Lubricants in the Specifications section in the maintenance manual for specifications.
Lubricate male rod threads and shoulders. Apply lubricant to clean, dry threads.
Keep electrically insulated gloves from coming in contact with lubricant. Petroleum-based products will
chemically damage gloves.
Do not thin lubricants to make them easier to apply. Thinning reduces the amount of available metal filler and
makes lubricant ineffective.

Starting the Bore - First Rod

Step 1: With the bill at 6:00, thrust until the drill rod just enters the ground.
Step 2: Stop pushing and rotate drill head until the rod is centered in the rod guide.
Step 3: When centered, rotate and push remainder of drill rod into the ground.
If the drill rack moves during drilling, reposition rack so drill rod is centered in the rod guide before continuing.
To prevent the rod joint from pulling apart, never rotate drill rod counterclockwise while drilling, pulling back,
or backreaming.
Step 4: Stop rotation, shut off fluid and engage front vise to clamp rod.
Step 5: Rotate drive spindle in reverse to unthread from drill rod. The drive chuck will move backward as rod
unthreads. Lubricate drive chuck threads.
Step 6: Move drive chuck fully back.

50-24 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

While Drilling 1 2

Gauges - Monitor
Monitor gauges to establish a baseline for rotation and thrust/pullback
pressures. Generally, try to keep rotation and thrust/pullback pressures 3
as low as possible throughout the bore.
Rotation pressure/torque (1) – Rotation pressure rises as the bore
progresses, due to friction on the increasing length of the drill string. But
if rotation pressure rises substantially, even when not drilling forward,
the soil may be taking on water and swelling around the drill string. If
this happens, re-evaluate the drilling fluid additives, increase flows or
redrill the pilot bore.
Thrust/Pullback pressure/force (2) – Thrust/Pullback pressure can be affected by product size and weight, bore
path lubrication, soil conditions, and bends in the bore. If the pullback gauge reaches the maximum pressure,
maximum pullback force is being exerted and the bore will be unable to continue.
Drilling fluid pressure (3) – The drilling fluid pressure gauge reads fluid pressure at the drilling fluid pump.
Pressure can vary based on flow rates and nozzle sizes used in the tooling. A maximum pressure on this gauge
could mean that flow has become restricted.

Obstructions - Investigate
Closely monitor the drilling rate and investigate obstructions to determine if they might be hazardous. Check
that tool is not touching a gas line, water line, electrical line, or some other underground obstruction that can be
damaged or cause personal injury.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-25

Plugged Drill Rod
If a drill rod becomes plugged, use:
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
Or
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
To force out the plug:
• Dig down to drill head
• Back out the drill string and drill head
Or
• Use fluid pressure to force out the plug.
Ensure drill rod joint has been broken to relieve drilling fluid pressure in the drill string before unclogging or
removing nozzle.

WARNING: Relieve drilling fluid pressure in the drill string before cleaning out
nozzles with a tip cleaner. Drilling fluid under pressure can penetrate body tissue
and result in death or serious injury. Fluid injected under the skin must be removed
immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury.

Clean out drill head nozzle with a tip cleaner. A plugged drill can become too hot and damage the drill head
transmitter.

Exiting the Bore

It is important to maintain good communication between the machine operator and locator operator. When the
bore reaches the exit point, crew must ensure everyone is clear of the area.
The operator should be ready to turn off drilling fluid pump as drill head exits the ground.

50-26 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 When drill head exits the ground, use correct lockout procedures so that inadvertent startup and rotation do not
occur during the tooling change.

Changing Tools at Remote Exit Pit

Use extreme care during tooling changes. Clear and understandable communication between members of the
machine’s crew is necessary for correct, complete, and efficient installation of the utility in a safe and timely
manner. The distance between machine and drill string exit location may prevent visual contact and direct voice
communication between the crew at the exit location and the machine operator.

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Unexpected startup possible.

Lock out before working on drill string.

Before changing tools, use correct lockout procedure:

• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-27

Communication Requirements

WARNING: Proper communication is essential to prevent unplanned startup of

the drill string and/or tool and to coordinate the pull of the exit site machine to
maintain tension on the drill pipe. Death or serious injury could result. Always
follow communication requirements as explained in the Preparation section.
Refer to “Radio Communication Requirements,” page 40-3.

Swivel Use
The reamer must have a swivel to prevent trailed rods or product from turning while reaming. If not, install one.

DANGER: Entanglement in rotating drill string can result in death or serious

injury. Rotating trailed string could whip and strike you. A properly functioning
swivel is necessary to prevent the trailing drill string from turning.

Step 1: Grease swivel and check that it turns freely by hand. A tool can be used to initially loosen swivel
rotation. If swivel does not turn freely by hand after loosening, repair or replace it. If the product
attached to the swivel rotates along with the reamer, replace swivel.
Step 2: Use correct lockout procedure.
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Step 3: Turn drilling fluid system off.
Step 4: Remove drill head from the drill string.

50-28 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Pullback Tool - Install
Drill tools must be equipped with manually threaded joint and collar connection. This connection between the
drill rod and drill/pullback tools eliminates the use of pipe wrenches or power tongs to make or break
connections. Drill tools with manually threaded joint and collar connection are not torqued and do not require
breakout tools to uncouple the joint.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury
will result. Never install tooling that requires the use of pipe wrenches or tongs.
Always use tools, which have the Splinelok or hex collar connection.

Use communication procedures as explained in the preparation section. Refer to “Radio Communication
Requirements,” page 40-3.
Step 1: Install backreamer. Refer to “Drill Tool Connections,” page 30-19.

WARNING: Death or serious injury could occur if you are struck by

whipping pipe or product. Never use a shackle when attaching swivel
to backreamer. Shackle will not keep the swivel aligned with the
reamer and may result in whip and rotation of trailing drill string or
product.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-29

 Step 2: Attach swivel to reamer as shown, by inserting bolt (1) through clevis end of swivel.
Secure with pin (2). Swivel must be aligned with the reamer before rotating the 1
reamer.
Vermeer double-eye swivels are designed for use with Vermeer reamers to limit the angle
between the reamer and swivel. Vermeer swivels and reamers aligned within this limited angle
reduce the possibility of whipping and rotation of the trailed product. Other swivels and
reamers may not provide this inherent benefit.

Resuming Operation
Step 1: Verify that drill string and cutting tools are ready for operation. 2
Step 2: Confirm everyone is away from the exit pit, drill string, and cutting tools and that no
wrenches or tongs are attached to the drill string or cutting tools.
Step 3: Warn everyone who may be exposed to the drill string or cutting tools that operation will resume.
Step 4: Press and hold run switch on Remote Lockout transmitter for two seconds to enable drilling operation,
or return keyswitch to machine if Remote Lockout system was not used.
Step 5: Follow all communication requirements before resuming operation.

50-30 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Pullback

WARNING: Backreamer may not follow the bore path exactly. Because of increase in bore size and change in
bore path, the backreamer may make contact with underground hazards that were missed during drilling.

Never rotate drill string counterclockwise while pulling back or backreaming. Counterclockwise
rotation will uncouple the drill string.

Pullback - Start
Step 1: Turn on drilling fluid.
To prevent reamer from moving sideways, pull tooling up to exit hole before rotating.

DANGER: Drill string and tooling can rapidly move sideways along the ground at the
exit location if rotation is started when drill rod or tooling is on the ground, away from
the exit hole. The larger the diameter of the reamer and the more drill string exposed
the faster and farther the reamer and drill string can travel. Death or serious injury
will occur if anyone is entangled or struck by drill string or tooling.

Pull tooling up to exit hole before rotating. Everyone must be well away from exposed
drill string and tooling before rotation is started.

Each rotation of the drill rod can cause an 8 in (20 cm) diameter reamer to rapidly travel 2 ft (60 cm) and a 16 in
(41 cm) reamer to travel 4 ft (1.2 m).
Step 2: Rotate clockwise and retract the drill rods from the ground.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-31

 Step 3: Stop rotation.
Step 4: Clamp rear and front vises to break rod joint.

Breaking Rod Joint

If a drill rod joint cannot be broken at the
vise, repair the vise.
• Never put a pipe wrench or tong on the
drill string and use drilling machine
torque to break the joint.
• Never use a pipe wrench or tongs and
apply force by using a backhoe. The
wrench could slip off the drill string
and strike you.
If an issue occurs in drilling out or pullback
which requires making or breaking a joint,
do not to use a pipe wrench. Use only a
compact Portable Breakout system.
A compact Portable Breakout system is required whenever you loosen a joint away from the machine. Death or
serious injury can occur if drill rod rotation starts and you are struck by the wrench.
Refer to the PBD11500 Operator’s/Maintenance Manual for information on using the portable breakout device.

50-32 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Trailing Rod While Pre-reaming
Pre-reaming can be used in difficult drilling conditions, when the desired bore diameter cannot be attained with
one pullback. One or more intermediate pre-reams can be made with increasingly larger reamers until reaching
the full diameter. Save time by pulling in additional rod behind each pre-reaming pass. The next size reamer can
then be attached to the rod already in the bore. This process can be repeated as many times as needed.

Swivel Use
Refer to “Swivel Use,” page 50-28.
Some swivels, such as a double-eye swivel, can be incorrectly aligned with the reamer. If swivel is not straight
in-line with the reamer, it might not swivel as intended. Instead, it could turn like a crank, causing the product
to turn and whip. Before starting rotation, it is important to position the reamer and product or trailing pipe so
that the swivel is extended to be straight in-line with the reamer before pulling in.

WARNING: Product or trailing drill rod can turn or whip. Death or serious injury could occur if you are
struck by a wrench, entangled, or struck by whipping pipe or product. Ensure swivel is straight in-line
with reamer before pulling back.

Short-string Method of Adding Drill Rod for Pre-reaming

Step 1: Preassemble as many rods as practical at the exit location. These will be attached later to the reamer
swivel. Before assembling rod joints, clean and lubricate threads.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-33

 Step 2: Join rods using a portable breakout device. Consult with rod supplier for proper makeup torque.

WARNING: Never attach a pipe wrench or tool and apply force from a
machine such as a backhoe to tighten or break a connection. If the
wrench slips off the bucket, the wrench could rotate or be thrown and
strike you. Death or serious injury may result.

Step 3: Attach rod recycler adapter to the first drill rod and tighten snugly.
Step 4: Use correct lockout procedures.
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Step 5: Attach rod recycler adapter to swivel.
Resuming Operation
Step 1: Verify drill rod and cutting tools are ready for operation.
Step 2: Confirm everyone is away from the exit pit, drill string and cutting tools and that no wrenches are
attached to the drill string or cutting tools.
Step 3: Warn everyone who may be exposed to the drill string or cutting tools that operation will resume.
Step 4: Press run button on transmitter and hold for two seconds to enable drilling operation.
Step 5: Follow all communication requirements before resuming normal operation.

50-34 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Pulling Back with Trailing Rod

DANGER: Drill string and tooling can rapidly move sideways along the ground at the
exit location if rotation is started when drill rod or tooling is on the ground, away from
the exit hole. The larger the diameter of the reamer and the more drill string exposed
the faster and further the reamer and drill string can travel. Death or serious injury
will occur if anyone is entangled or struck by drill string or tooling.

Pull tooling up to exit hole before rotating. Everyone must be well away from exposed
drill string and tooling before rotation is started.

Pull tooling up to exit hole before rotating.

Step 1: Begin reaming.
Step 2: Crew must watch trailing rods as they are drawn into the bore. If they rotate, the swivel must be
repaired or replaced.
Step 3: Install additional drill rod and continue pulling back until reamer reaches drill unit.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury
will result. Before installing additional drill rods:
• Swivel must be functioning properly, and
• Machine must be locked out.

Step 4: Remove reamer and attach trailing drill string to drill unit.
Step 5: Attach a larger reamer and continue until bore is completed.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-35

Push-Through Method of Adding Drill Rod for Pre-reaming
Step 1: When drill head exits the pilot bore, rotate drill head to 12:00 position.
Step 2: Continue adding more drill rods at the machine and pushing rods through the borehole.

DANGER: Entanglement in rotating drill string or cutters can kill. Rotating trailed
rods could whip and strike you. Do not rotate when the drill string and cutting tool
have exited the bore. Keep everyone away from the exposed drill string.

Step 3: Do not rotate drill string while pushing the drill head across the ground. If needed, the extending rod
can be steered by pushing on the side of the drill string with a backhoe bucket.
Step 4: After enough drill rod have been pushed through, use correct lockout procedures.
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Step 5: Position or support trailing drill string to relieve bending load at the joint where reamer will be
installed.

WARNING: If there is a bending load at the joint, the drill rods on both sides of the joint could move
suddenly when the joint is separated. Serious injury could occur if you are struck.

Step 6: Use a compact remote power breakout device to loosen joint. Refer to “Pbd11500 Portable Breakout
Device,” page 60-4.

50-36 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Resuming Operation
Step 1: Remove breakout device and any tools attached to drill string.
Step 2: Ensure everyone is away from entire length of the drill string.
Step 3: Press run button on transmitter and hold for two seconds to enable drilling operation to resume.

DANGER: Wrench on rotating drill string can strike you. Death or serious injury will
result. Ensure all tools are removed from the drill string before rotation is started.

Step 4: Use drill unit to slowly reverse rotate the drill string until the two halves are fully separated.
Step 5: Separate the two drill strings far enough for reamer installation.
Step 6: Use correct lockout procedures. Refer to:
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Step 7: Attach rod recycler adapter to drill rod and then attach to swivel.
Step 8: Follow Step 3 through remaining steps of Short-string method of adding drill rod for pre-reaming. Refer to
page 50-33.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-37

Gauges - Monitor During Pullback 1 2
Monitor gauges during pullback. Ideally, the pullback pressure will
remain low while the reamer mixes drilling fluid with the soil to form a
good slurry flow through the annular space.
3
Rotation pressure (1) – If rotation pressure is spiking, you may be pulling
back too fast for the ground conditions. A rise in rotation pressure can also
mean that the reamer has encountered harder ground.
Thrust/Pullback pressure (2) – A steady rise in pullback pressure could
indicate a loss of fluid flow through the annular space, causing the product
to become stuck or the inadvertent return of fluid.
Drilling fluid pressure (3) – The drilling fluid pressure gauge reads fluid pressure at the drilling fluid pump.
Pressure can vary based on flow rates and nozzle sizes used in the tooling. A maximum pressure on this gauge
could mean that flow has become restricted.

50-38 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

After Each Bore
Vises - Clean

WARNING: High pressure water can penetrate skin. Serious injury is possible.

Keep nozzles away from body.

Fluid injected under the skin must be removed immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury.
Flush vise assemblies with clean water and wash wand to remove accumulated polymers or dirt. Refer to
“Machine - Wash,” page 50-41.
The service life of the vise is dependent on correct operating techniques and cleanliness of the mechanism.
Inspect vise jaws and grips and replace worn or damaged components before the next bore. Refer to Maintenance
- as required section in the maintenance manual.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-39

Drill Rods - Clean and Store
• Clean and lubricate drill rod threads to prevent rusting. Refer to Lubricants in the Specifications section in the
maintenance manual.
• Protect drill rod from damage.
• Store drill rods in the rod box on drill unit.
• Install keeper pins to prevent drill rods from falling out during transport.

Flushing Bentonite/Polymers from Drilling Fluid System

If bentonite or polymers were added to drilling fluid, flush system with fresh water before stowing equipment.
To drain, clean and add fresh water:
Step 1: Turn water system on and flush water through drill unit hoses and drive plate. Shut off water system.

WARNING: High pressure water can penetrate skin. Serious injury possible. Fluid
injected under the skin must be removed immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type
of injury.

Keep nozzles away from body.

50-40 Operation D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Step 2: Connect wash wand to drilling fluid pump quick coupler (1).
Step 3: Close front vise.
Step 4: Move out of the seat.
Step 5: Select wash wand mode with key (2).
Step 6: Turn water system on and flush water through wash wand until water is
clean and clear.
Step 7: Shut off water system.
Step 8: Point wash wand away from people and squeeze handle to release water
pressure remaining in wand. 1

Step 9: Remove wash wand from drilling fluid pump quick coupler and store on
transport vehicle.
If freezing weather is expected, remove all water from drill unit or add RV-type
antifreeze. Refer to “Adding Antifreeze to Drilling Fluid System,” page 30-39.

Machine - Wash
Before loading onto transport vehicle, use procedure on previous page to wash drill
unit with clean water to remove accumulated polymers and dirt. 2
NOTICE: Machine controls and electrical/electronic devices are not rated to
withstand high pressure water and temperature power washers. Water intrusion
will likely cause malfunction or damage to any devices hit directly by the water
spray. Keep pressure washer stream away from machine controls and electrical/
electronic devices. Compressed air can also push moisture through some connector
and component seals. Do not point air nozzle directly at seal areas.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Operation 50-41

This page intentionally left blank.
Section 60: Supplemental Operations
Jump-Starting
Battery Explosion - Prevent

WARNING: Battery fumes are flammable and can explode. Keep all burning materials
away from battery. Battery explosion can blind. Acid can blind and burn. Tools and
cable clamps can make sparks.

Do not smoke. Shield eyes and face. Read instructions.

Do not jump-start or charge a battery that is frozen or low on electrolyte.

Prevent explosion hazard.
Do not allow vehicle used to jump-start to be in contact with the disabled machine. Vehicles in contact have a
ground connection which allows a spark to occur at the battery when the positive jumper cable is connected or
removed. If equipped with battery caps, they must be in place and tight to reduce risk of battery explosion.
Use only a 12-volt system for jump-starting.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Supplemental Operations 60-1

Battery Burns - Prevent
Battery contains sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns. Prevent contact with eyes, skin and clothing.
In case of acid contact:
External: Flush with plenty of water. If eyes have been exposed, flush with water for 15 minutes and get prompt
medical aid.
Internal: Drink large quantities of water or milk, then milk of magnesia, beaten egg or vegetable oil. Call a physician
immediately.

Jump-Starting Procedure
Pb
WARNING: Battery post, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds.

Wash hands after handling.

60-2 Supplemental Operations D10x15III Operator’s Manual

 Review battery service safety guidelines before jump-starting machine (refer
4
to battery maintenance instructions in the maintenance manual).
Step 1: Turn keyswitch off. Discharged battery
Step 2: Turn battery ground disconnect switch counterclockwise to 1
disconnect battery ground. BLACK
2
Step 3: Connect jumper cables in the following order:
1. Red to discharged battery positive (+) terminal (1). Machine frame RED
2. Red to boost battery positive (+) terminal (2).
Boost battery
3. Black to boost battery negative (-) terminal (3).
4. Black to frame (4) of machine with discharged battery. Make 3
connection away from battery, fuel lines and moving parts. Do not
attach to the negative terminal of the discharged battery.
To prevent sparks near the battery, always disconnect black jumper cable from the frame before adjusting red
jumper cable.
Step 4: Turn battery ground disconnect switch clockwise to connect battery ground.
Step 5: Start engine.
Step 6: Remove cables in reverse order and install red cover over positive battery cable clamp.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Supplemental Operations 60-3

Pbd11500 Portable Breakout Device
Intended Use
The Vermeer PBD11500 Portable breakout device is a compact breakout system, manually activated, which
provides a convenient method to loosen or tighten a threaded connection. Its intended use is with drill rod with
an outside diameter of 1.66 – 3.50 in (4.22 – 8.89 cm) at 11,500 ft-lb (15 592 Nm).
Always use the device in accordance with the instructions contained in the PBD11500 operator’s/maintenance
manual, safety signs on the device and the drill unit and other material provided by Vermeer Corporation.
Correct maintenance and repair is essential for safety and for efficient operation of the device. Do not use the
device if it is not in suitable operating condition.

DANGER: Unexpected rotation of drill rod can kill.

Lock out drill unit before using a breakout device.

60-4 Supplemental Operations D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Replacing Broken Drill Rod Underground
Step 1: Retract drill string back to the drill unit until broken rod exits the ground. Keep track of the length of
drill rod retracted so you can determine the location of the underground break. Use power vises to
break the joint and remove broken rod.
Step 2: Dig to the break location underground.
Step 3: Use a compact remote power breakout device to loosen joint of broken rod in the ground. The use of a
pipe wrench to continue to unthread the broken rod after it has been loosened with the breakout
device is permitted.
Step 4: Install drill rod hole guide, such as a football or balloon, onto drill rod at the machine. Push it through
pilot bore to the drill string still in the ground.

DANGER: Rotating drill string can kill. Unexpected startup possible.

Lock out before working on drill string.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Supplemental Operations 60-5

 Step 5: Use correct lockout procedures. Refer to:
• “Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout,” page 30-14
• “Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System,” page 30-17
Step 6: Remove football/balloon.
Step 7: Ensure everyone is away from the exposed drill string. Use machine to push drill rod forward until
male threads have engaged the downhole rod.
Step 8: Use slow forward rotation to turn drill string together until joint is tight. Correct makeup torque will
be attained due to resistance provided by cutting tool on the far end of drill string.

Welding Precautions - Review

NOTICE: Welding will damage electronic components. Using battery disconnect switch to disconnect battery
ground will not prevent damage.
Review welding precautions section of the maintenance manual before welding on machine.

60-6 Supplemental Operations D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Section 70: Maintenance Schedule
WARNING: Failure to use Shutdown Procedure can result in unexpected hazard(s). Death or
serious injury could result due to entanglement, crushing, cutting, or other hazardous
contact. Follow Shutdown Procedure after operating, before performing any service or
maintenance, and before transporting. Refer to page 50-4.

Visually inspect machine daily before starting the machine.

Make no modifications to your equipment unless specifically recommended or requested by Vermeer Corporation.

Safety Signs Maintenance

Safety signs located on your machine contain important and useful information that will help you operate your
equipment safely.
To assure that all safety signs remain in place and in good condition:
• Keep safety signs clean. Use soap and water - not mineral spirits, abrasive cleaners, or other similar cleaners
that will damage the sign.
• Replace any damaged or missing safety signs. When attaching safety signs, temperature of the mounting
surface must be at least 40°F (5°C). The mounting surface must be clean and dry.
• When replacing a machine component with a safety sign attached, replace the safety sign also.
• Replacement safety signs can be purchased from your Vermeer equipment dealer.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Maintenance Schedule 70-1

Maintenance Manual
Before performing any maintenance, refer to the Maintenance Manual for safety guidelines and correct procedures.

Hourmeter - Check for Maintenance Interval

The hourmeter on the machine is used to determine machine maintenance intervals. The hourmeter indicates the total
number of hours engine has been in operation.
Maintenance intervals are based on normal operating conditions. When operating under severe conditions, the
maintenance intervals should be shortened.

Machine - Grease
Grease machine after it is shut down for the day or at 50 service hours if required. This protects metal under seals from
corrosion caused by condensation as temperature drops.
Clean all fittings and nozzle of grease applicator before applying grease. If any grease fittings are missing, replace them
immediately.

70-2 Maintenance Schedule D10x15III Operator’s Manual

Recommended Fluids
Hydraulic Fluid Requirements
Lubricant Capacity Specifications/notes
ISO 46: -13 – 86°F (-25 – 30°C)
Hydraulic fluid Hydraulic system: ISO 68: -4 – 104°F (-20 – 40°C)
Vermeer HyPower 46 or 25 gal (95 L) ISO 100: 14 – 122°F (-10 – 50°C)
Vermeer HyPower 68 or Use caution not to get dirt or other contaminants into the
Vermeer HyPower 100 Tank: 18 gal (68 L) system(s). Filter all fluid through a 10-micron filter before
adding to tank.
Use of any oils other than those recommended without written
factory approval will jeopardize warranty.
Refer to the Specifications section in the maintenance manual for other fluid and lubricant requirements.

Engine Maintenance Intervals

Refer to the engine operation manual, supplied with each machine, for maintenance instructions that are not included in
this manual.

Welding Precautions - Review

NOTICE: Welding will damage electronic components. Using battery disconnect switch to disconnect battery ground will not
prevent damage.
Review welding precautions chapter of the maintenance manual before welding on machine.

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Maintenance Schedule 70-3

Maintenance Intervals
Initial = Initial maintenance on new machine. Regular maintenance intervals may be different.

 = Regular maintenance interval.

For Vermeer maintenance replacement part numbers, refer to the Parts Manual or call your Vermeer dealer.
Maintenance Interval - Service Hours
10 or 50 or
Service Daily Weekly 125 250 500 1000 1500 2000 3000 As req
Machine - inspect 
Engine oil level - check 
Hydraulic fluid level - check 
Engine coolant level - check 
Fuel tank - fill 
Air cleaner restriction indicator - check 
Drill rod care 
Greaser (option) - check/refill 
Vises - inspect/clean 
Fuel/water separator- check/drain 
Rod guide - grease 
Fuel tank water and sediment - drain 
Drilling fluid pump crankcase oil level - check 
Vises - grease 
Rotation gearbox oil - check 
Carriage gear slides - inspect 
Outrigger - grease 
70-4 Maintenance Schedule D10x15III Operator’s Manual
 Maintenance Interval - Service Hours
10 or 50 or
Service Daily Weekly 125 250 500 1000 1500 2000 3000 As req
Engine cooling system - check 
Drilling fluid system - check 
Drilling fluid pump oil - change Initial
Control levers - check 
Overall machine - check 
Safety signs maintenance 
Emergency stop switch - check 
Neutral start interlock - check 
Operator presence system - check 
Hydraulic system - check 
Engine oil and filter - replace 
Hydraulic fluid filters - replace Initial
Rotation gearbox oil - change Initial
Alternator and fan belts - check/adjust/replace 
Engine protective devices - check 
Fuel transfer pump strainer - clean 
Hoses and clamps - check/replace 
Primary air cleaner element - replace 
Fuel filter - replace 
Fuel/Water separator- clean/replace 
Battery terminals/electrolyte level - clean/check 

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Maintenance Schedule 70-5

 Maintenance Interval - Service Hours
10 or 50 or
Service Daily Weekly 125 250 500 1000 1500 2000 3000 As req
Ground drive speed - check 
Drilling fluid pump oil - change 
Hydraulic fluid filters - replace 
Hydraulic fluid - change 
Secondary air filter element - replace 
Rotation gearbox oil - change 
Engine selective catalytic reduction (SCR) filter -
replace 
Alternator - inspect 
Engine crankshaft vibration damper - inspect 
Engine mounts - inspect 
Engine coolant temperature regulator - replace 
Alternator and fan belt - replace 
Cooling system - drain/clean 
Starting motor - inspect 
Water pump - inspect 
Fuel water separator - replace 
Engine crankcase breather - clean 
Engine compartment - clean 
Battery - replace 
Manual/Parked filter cleaning 
Air cleaner elements - replace 
 Maintenance Interval - Service Hours
10 or 50 or
Service Daily Weekly 125 250 500 1000 1500 2000 3000 As req
Stakedown drivers - remove/install 
Vise dies - replace 
Track tension - check/adjust 
Carriage gear slides - inspect/replace 
Carriage pads - inspect/replace 
Fuses and relays - replace 
Storage procedure 

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Maintenance Schedule 70-7

This page intentionally left blank.
Index
A
Active Codes Screen, 21-21 D
Adding Antifreeze to Drilling Fluid System, 30-39 Diesel Fuel Recommendations, 12-1
After Each Bore, 50-39 Diesel Fuel Sulfur Content, 12-1
After utility company has shut off the power, 50-20 Discharged Battery, 30-12
Armor Multi-tool, 30-24 Disconnect, 30-19
Armor® Drill Housing Assembly, 30-22 Display, 20-28
Auxiliary Engine Shutdown for Hydraulic Disable, 30-7 Drill Head - Connect to Starter Rod, 50-21
Auxiliary Outlet, 20-23 Drill Rod - Flush, 50-23
Drill Rod - Lubricate, 50-24
B Drill Rod and Tools, 30-18
Battery Burns - Prevent, 60-2 Drill Rod, 30-18
Battery Condition, 30-12 Drill Rods - Add to Drill String, 30-34
Battery Explosion - Prevent, 60-1 Drill Rods - Clean and Store, 50-40
Battery Status (4), 20-29 Drill Rods - Remove From Drill String, 30-36
Before the Bore, 50-22 Drill Screen, 21-4
Bore Path - Walk, 50-11 Drill Setup Screens, 21-10
Breaking Rod Joint, 50-32 Drill Tool Assemblies, 30-20
Drill Tool Connections, 30-19
C Drill Unit Setup, 50-11
Call Your One-Call System First, 40-8 Drilling Controls - Rotation, 20-18
Carriage Slowdown Setup Screen, 21-11 Drilling Controls - Thrust, 20-19
Changing Tools at Remote Exit Pit, 50-27 Drilling Fluid Controls, 20-21
Cold Weather Starting, 50-3 Drilling Fluid Pump Output Flow, 30-39
Communication Requirements, 50-28 Drilling Fluid Setup Screen, 21-10
Connect, 30-19 Drilling Fluid, 30-39
Connection State (1), 20-28 Drilling Head Assembly, 30-20
Current Channel (3), 20-29 Driving the Machine with Remote Control, 50-5
D10x15III Operator’s Manual Index
Driving the Machine, 50-5 Gauges - Monitor During Pullback, 50-38
Gauges - Monitor, 50-25
E Greaser (Option), 20-20
Electrical Line, 50-19
Electrical Shock Protection, 40-9 H
Electrically Insulated Boots, 40-13 Hourmeter - Check for Maintenance Interval, 70-2
Electrically Insulated Gloves - Inspect, 40-12 Hydraulic Disable or Engine Shutdown Option, 30-7
Electrically Insulated Gloves, 40-11 Hydraulic Disable Test, 30-8
Electrocution Prevention, 40-10 Hydraulic Fluid Requirements, 70-3
Electronic Controller, 21-1 Hydraulic Fluid, 50-3
Emissions Indicator
(Tier 4 Final/Stage V Only), 21-6 I
Emissions Quick Reference Guides, 18-1 Intended Use, 15-1
Engine Access, 20-25 Intended Use, 60-4
Engine Controls, 20-9
Engine Maintenance Intervals, 70-3 J
Engine Screen, 21-2 Jobsite - Check, 40-17
Engine Shutdown Test, 30-9 Jump-Starting Procedure, 60-2
Engine, 50-3 Jump-Starting, 60-1
Entrance and Exit Sites - Prepare, 50-16
Exiting the Bore, 50-26 L
Laws and Regulations - Check, 40-18
F Lifting Machine, 50-11
Fault Check/Processing Lights, 30-6 Loading/Unloading, 50-8
Fiber Optic Cable, 50-21 Locating Equipment - Prepare, 50-15
Fire Extinguisher, 10-5 Locator System, 30-37
Flushing Bentonite/Polymers from Drilling Fluid System, 50-40 Lockout Button, 30-5
Fuses and Relays, 20-24 Lockout Procedure - Using Remote Lockout, 30-14
Lockout Procedure - Without Remote Lockout System, 30-17
G Loss of Remote Lockout Transmitter Signal, 30-11
Gas, 50-21 Low Battery, 30-12
Index D10x15III Operator’s Manual
Machine - Anchor with Stakes, 50-15 Preparing Personnel, 40-1
Machine - Grease, 70-2 Preparing The Machine, 40-15
Machine - Wash, 50-41 Preparing the Work Area, 40-17
Machine Controls, 20-1 Pullback - Start, 50-31
Machine/Engine Diagnostics, 21-21 Pullback Tool - Install, 50-29
Main Menu Screen, 21-1 Pullback, 50-31
Maintenance Intervals, 70-4 Pulling Back with Trailing Rod, 50-35
Maintenance Manual, 70-2 Push-Through Method of Adding Drill Rod for Pre-reaming, 50-36
Maintenance Schedule, 70-1 PVC Pipe Pulling (Option), 30-26
Manually Threaded Joint And Collar, 30-32
Menu Options, 20-30 R
Radio Communication Requirements, 40-3
O Radio Communication to Resume Drilling Operation, 40-4
Obstructions - Investigate, 50-25 Radio Communication to Stop Drilling Operation, 40-4
Operation, 50-1 Read Overview Section, 50-18
Operator Presence System, 40-15 Reamer - Connect, 30-31
Operator Presence/Seat Controls, 20-23 Reamer Carrier - Install/Remove, 30-29
Operator Qualifications, 40-1 Reamer Carrier - Intended Use, 30-27
Optional Digitrak Aurora Display, 22-1 Reamer Carrier - Lift, 30-29
Overview, 30-1 Reamer Carrier Components, 30-28
Reamer Carrier Styles, 30-28
P Reamer Carrier Wear Pads - Replace, 30-32
Pbd11500 Portable Breakout Device, 60-4 Reamer Installation, 30-27
Personal Protection, 40-5 Rear Joystick Tracking Calibration, 21-19
Pilot Bore, 50-18 Recharge Battery, 30-12
Planning the Bore, 40-18 Recommended Fluids, 70-3
Plugged Drill Rod, 50-26 Remote Control Operating Range, 20-32
Power Button, 30-4 Remote Control Storage, 20-34
Power Line Locator System, 40-17 Remote Lockout Battery Charger, 20-8
Preparation, 40-1 Remote Lockout Indicators, 20-7
Preparing for Transport, 50-7 Remote Lockout Indicators, 30-6
D10x15III Operator’s Manual Index
Remote Lockout Machine Controls, 20-6 Run Button, 30-4
Remote Lockout Overview, 30-1
Remote Lockout Symbols, 20-6 S
Remote Lockout System - Shutdown, 30-13 Safe Operating Slope, 50-6
Remote Lockout System - Start, 30-13 Safety Cones, 40-17
Remote Lockout System - Test, 40-16 Safety Cones, 50-17
Remote Lockout System Component Identification, 30-3 Safety Conscious Operators and Workers, 40-1
Remote Lockout System Intended Use, 30-1 Safety Messages, 10-1
Remote Lockout System Preparation, 40-15 Safety Precautions, 50-18
Remote Lockout Tests, 30-8 Safety Signs and Operating Instructions, 40-2
Remote Lockout Transmitter Controls, 20-4 Safety Signs Maintenance, 70-1
Remote Lockout Transmitter Registration, 30-10 Safety Symbol Explanation, 10-1
Remote Lockout Transmitter, 30-3 Screen Brightness, 21-19
Remote Registration Setup Screen, 21-17 Setup Controls, 20-15
Remote Registration, 20-33 Setup, 50-11
Remote Transmitter - Prepare, 40-15 Short-string Method of Adding Drill Rod for Pre-reaming, 50-33
Replacing Broken Drill Rod Underground, 60-5 Shutdown Procedure, 50-4
Resuming Operation After Lockout, 30-17 Software Information Screen, 21-20
Resuming Operation After Remote Lockout, 30-16 Soil Conductivity, 40-14
Resuming Operation, 50-30 Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage IV), 40-6
Resuming Operation, 50-34 Sound and Vibration Levels (Deutz TD2.9 T4F/Stage V), 40-7
Resuming Operation, 50-37 Starting Procedure, 50-1
Rod Box - Load, 30-33 Starting the Bore - First Rod, 50-24
Rod Count Adjust, 21-15 Starting the Engine, 50-1
Rod Count Audible, 21-15 Status of Remote and Connection (2), 20-28
Rod Counter (Optional), 21-13 Straight Tracking Screen, 21-18
Rod Joint Position Indicator, 20-20 Straight Tracking, 20-14
Rod Loading, 30-33 Strike Alert - Indicators and Controls on Display, 50-14
Rod Makeup Setup Screen, 21-12 Strike Alert Controls, 20-1
Rod Wiper - Install, 50-16 Strike Alert System - Test, 50-12
Rotary Tooth Installation/extraction - Gauntlet Bit, 30-25 Strike Alert System Functions, 40-14
Index D10x15III Operator’s Manual
Supplemental Operations, 60-1 Vise Operating Guidelines, 30-38
Swivel Use, 50-28 Vises - Clean, 50-39
Swivel Use, 50-33
Swivel, 30-27 W
Warning Alarm, 30-3
T Welding Precautions - Review, 60-6
Telematics equipment notice and consent, 1-9 Welding Precautions - Review, 70-3
Threaded Connection, 30-31 While Drilling, 50-25
Threaded Connections - Hex and QuickFire® Connection System, Wireless Remote Control (Option), 20-26
30-19
Throttle Controls, 20-11
Tooling Length, 21-16
Towing/Retrieving Machine, 50-10
Trailering the Machine, 50-8
Trailing Rod While Pre-reaming, 50-33
Training, 40-2
Transmitter Indicator Lights, 20-5
Transport Controls - Remote Control, 20-13
Transport Station Controls, 20-12
Transporting the Machine, 50-5
Turnbuckle - Adjust, 30-30

U
Units, 21-20
Utility Line Contact, 50-19

V
Vermeer GPS Tracking Equipment (Telematics), 16-1
Vermeer Productivity Tools, 16-1
Vise Controls, 20-17
Vise Lockout, 21-14
D10x15III Operator’s Manual Index
This page intentionally left blank.
Revision History
Revision Date Page(s) Description
o1_00 04/16 All 1st Edition Original Manual released.
Updated screens and call outs in Electronic Controller
Front cover, Sections: 21-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 70- and Carriage Slides - Inspection/Replace in As
o1_05 09/19
5, 18-1, 2, 3, 4. Required. Added Emissions Quick Reference Guide
tables and verbiage. Telematics update.
o1_06 03/20 Front cover, Pages 20-8, 10, 11, 15, 30-20, 40-6, 7, Back Added keyswitch cover, update sound power, bit torque
Front 20-1, 2, 3, 21-3, 40-10, 14, 50-12, 13, 14, 19, 20,
o1_07 10/21 Update strike alert info
Back
Style updates, remove glove and boot certificate, DVD
o1_08 06/22 All, Receiving and delivery report, 10-2, 21-14
changed to USB, vise lockout
Updated remote storage graphic, drill rod torque
o1_09 03/23 20-32, 50-34, 70-3, 4, 5, 6, 7 change, added hydraulic fluid requirements, updated
maintenance interval chart
01_10 03/24 70-3, 4, 5, 6, 7 updated maintenance chart
01_11 07/24 Section receiving and delivery, 20-13, 14, 28, 29, 30 Update to new tracking remote

D10x15III Operator’s Manual Revision History

 CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning Proposition 65 Warning
Diesel engine exhaust and some of Battery posts, terminals, and related
its constituents are known to the accessories contain lead and lead
State of California to cause cancer, compounds, chemicals known to the
birth defects, and other State of California to cause cancer
reproductive harm. and reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.

© 2024 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

1210 Vermeer Road East, P.O. Box 200
Pella, Iowa 50219-0200 USA