Minuteman E17 / E20 Electric Operator Manual
User manual
Minuteman E17/E20 Electric Walk-Behind Scrubber, Disc Brush Drive
Document 988720UME, Rev * 07/11
Introduction
This manual is furnished with each new MINUTEMAN E17/E20. This provides the necessary operating and preventive maintenance instructions. Operators must read and understand this manual before operating or servicing this machine.
This machine was designed to give you excellent performance and efficiency. For best results and minimal cost, please follow the general guidelines below:
· Operate the machine with reasonable care.
· Follow the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance instructions as provided in this booklet.
· Use original Minuteman supplied parts.
Technical specifications
Model: E17/E20
Model No.: E17115BD / E20115BD / E17230BD / E20230BD
| Specification | E17 | E20 |
|---|---|---|
| Current (Max) | 32 amps | 32 amps |
| Sound level | 69 dBA | 69 dBA |
| Cleaning path width | 17 in (43 cm) | 20 in (51 cm) |
| Squeegee width | 30 in (76 cm) | 34 in (86 cm) |
| Theoretical productivity | 17,000 ft² /hr (1,185 m²) | 20,000 ft² /hr (1,394 m²) |
| Working speed | 2.3 mph (3.7 km per hr) | 2.3 mph (3.7 km per hr) |
| Rated voltage | 24 volts | 24 volts |
| Vacuum flow | 65 cfm (110 m³/hr) | 65 cfm (110 m³/hr) |
| Vacuum waterlift | 45 inches (112 mbar) | 45 inches (112 mbar) |
| Vacuum power | .60 HP (450 W) | .60 HP (450 W) |
| Brush type | Disc | Disc |
| Brush motor(s) power | 3/4 HP (560 W) | 3/4 HP (560 W) |
| Number of brushes | 1 | 1 |
| Brush RPM | 180 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Aqua-Stop equipped | Coming Soon | Coming Soon |
| Solution capacity | 12 Gal (45 liters) | 12 Gal (45 liters) |
| Recovery capacity | 13 Gal (49 liters) | 13 Gal (49 liters) |
| Working grade | 2% | 2% |
| Weight | 316 lbs (143 kgs) | 312 lbs (142 kgs) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 44.4 x 18.8 x 42.3 in (112.8 x 47.8 x 107.4 cm) | 47.4 x 21.3 x 42.3 in (120.4 x 54.1 x 107.4 cm) |
Corrected an obvious misprint: E20 dimensions printed as "(120.4 x 54.1 107.4 cm)" with the second "x" missing (now "x 107.4 cm", as in the E17 dimensions). "in" added after the inch dimensions, which the page leaves off.
CE declaration
This page is blank in the printed manual.
Contents
- Technical specifications (page 3)
- Safety instructions (page 6)
- Unpacking instructions (page 7)
- Machine overview (page 8)
- Machine overview – front (page 8)
- Machine overview – rear (page 9)
- Control panel (page 10)
- Optional hour meter (page 12)
- Optional solution solenoid (page 13)
- In-line solution filter assembly (page 13)
- Circuit breakers (page 14)
- Rear squeegee (page 16)
- Cleaning the squeegee (page 16)
- Changing the squeegee blades (page 16)
- Adjusting the squeegee blades (page 17)
- Angle adjustment (page 17)
- Height adjustment (page 18)
- Handle adjustment (page 19)
- Angle adjustment (handle) (page 19)
- Horizontal adjustment (page 20)
- Solution tank drain hose (page 21)
- Solution level indicator (page 21)
- Solution fill filter (page 22)
- Screened float (page 23)
- Screened float removal (page 24)
- Recovery tank drain hose (page 25)
- Deck skirt removal (page 25)
- In-line solution filter assembly (page 26)
- The E17/E20 (page 27)
- Machine operation (page 28)
- Loading brush (page 30)
- Unloading brush (page 31)
- Notes (page 32)
- After use (page 34)
- Maintenance (page 35)
- Troubleshooting (page 36)
- Warranty (page 38)
Important safety instructions
This machine is designed solely for scrubbing dirt and dust in an indoor environment. Minuteman does not recommend using this machine in any other capacity.
The following information below may cause a potential hazard to the operator and equipment. Read this manual carefully and be aware when these conditions can exist. Take necessary steps to locate all safety devices on the machine and train the personnel operating the machine. Report any machine damage or faulty operation immediately. Do not use machine if it is not in proper operating condition.
For safety during operation
For safety when servicing or maintaining machine
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Inspection
Carefully unpack and inspect your E17/E20 Walk-Behind Scrubber for shipping damage. Follow unpacking instructions on shipping pallet. Each unit has been tested and thoroughly inspected before shipment. Any damage is the responsibility of the delivery carrier who should be notified immediately.
Electrical
This machine is electric and designed to operate on 115 or 230 volts based on model.
Operator responsibility
Read this manual carefully before operating this machine.
The operator is responsible for taking care of the daily maintenance of the machine to keep it in good working condition. The operator must inform the service mechanic or supervisor when the scheduled maintenance intervals are required as stated in the MAINTENANCE section of this manual.
Before starting, familiarize yourself with the machine and its controls (see “Machine Overview, Front”, “Machine Overview, Rear”, “Control Console” diagrams).
Machine overview - front
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Spray bottle/cup holder |
| B | Solution fill port |
| C | Recovery tank lid |
| D | Recovery tank |
| E | Brush deck |
| F | Front wheel |
| G | Rear caster |
| H | Solution tank |
| J | Floating deck skirt |
Machine overview - rear
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Bail handle |
| B | Squeegee lift lever |
| C | Solution control lever |
| D | Recovery tank drain hose |
| E | Power cord |
| F | Circuit breakers |
| G | Recovery hose |
| H | Control panel |
| J | Solution tank drain hose / level indicator |
| K | Brush lift pedal |
| L | Rear squeegee |
Control panel
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Bail handle |
| B | Handle adjustment knob |
| C | Key switch |
| D | Squeegee lift lever |
| E | Solution control lever |
| F | Battery gauge |
Corrected an obvious misprint: "guage" printed as "gauge" (as on page 11).
Bail handle
(A) When the scrubdeck is lowered to the floor, the bail handle enables the brush motor and moves the machine forward once depressed. This also allows the operator to automatically load the brush when the scrub deck is lowered over the brush.
Handle adjustment knobs
(B) Allows the handle position to be raised or lowered.
Key switch
(C) Controls the machine’s power (Brush Unload/Off/On) with a key for safety. This switch, when turned counter clockwise, operates the auto brush unload when scrubdeck is in the raised position. When it is turned to the ON position, the machine will operate.
Squeegee lift lever
(D) When actuated to the top position, the squeegee is lowered and the vacuum motor turns on. When locked in the bottom position, the squeegee is raised and the vacuum motor shuts off.
Solution control lever
(E) This lever controls the rate at which solution is dispensed. Moving the lever up will increase the amount of solution. Moving the lever down will decrease the solution rate. Moving the lever all the way down shuts off solution flow.
Battery gauge
(F) This gauge activates to show power is on when the key switch is on.
Corrected an obvious misprint: "vacumm" printed as "vacuum" (as in the same sentence's earlier "vacuum motor").
Optional hour meter
Minuteman offers an optional hour meter for the E17/E20. The optional kit replaces the power cord mounting bracket at the rear of the machine with one that contains an hour meter that runs when the brush motor is on.
Optional solution solenoid
Minuteman offers an optional solution solenoid for the E17/E20. The optional solenoid automatically turns off the solution flow when the brush motor is not active.
In-line solution filter assembly
The optional solution solenoid, which shuts off solution flow when the bail handle is released, is protected from debris by the in-line filter assembly. The filter assembly is located at the rear of the machine on the left hand side, just under the solution tank. It is important to check and clean the screened washer inside the assembly regularly to ensure proper solution flow. To open, unscrew the assembly (Note that the cone of the washer is facing out toward the rear of the machine). Remove washer and rinse, reinsert and screw assembly together, tightening by hand. Overtightening with tools may damage the plastic threads.
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Fitting, MGHT |
| B | Screened Washer |
| C | Hose Barb Insert |
| D | Fitting, FGHT |
Circuit breakers
The circuit breaker is located at the bottom of the back panel of the machine.
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Main Control Breaker - 4A |
| B | Brush Motor Breaker - 30A |
| C | Vacuum Motor Breaker - 20A |
If any of the functions above are not operating, check if the circuit breaker buttons have tripped. Press to reset.
Machine overview
This page is blank in the printed manual.
Rear squeegee
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Squeegee |
| B | Star-shaped knob |
| C | Adjusting screw for angle adjustment |
| D | Suction hose |
| E | Blade fastening latch |
| F | Washers for caster height adjustment |
| G | Caster Wheel Axle |
Cleaning the squeegee
Check the squeegee (A) daily and clean as necessary.
- Pull off the suction hose (D).
- Loosen the two star-shaped knobs (B).
- Remove the squeegee (A).
Changing the squeegee blades
Check the inner and outer squeegee blades on the squeegee (A) weekly for signs of wear. The squeegee blades can be turned 4 times to use all 4 edges.
- Pull off the suction hose (D), loosen the two star-shaped knobs (B) and remove the squeegee.
- Unlock the fastening device (E) and remove the outer squeegee blade. Turn the squeegee blade or install a new one, as necessary. Change the inner squeegee blade in the same way. Parts ›
Adjusting the squeegee blades
Angle adjustment
The angle adjustment is the decisive factor in ensuring that the squeegee blades on the squeegee lie evenly on the floor.
- Park the machine on a level surface and lower the squeegee.
- Loosen the lower wing nut (B) on the adjusting screw (C) and adjust the squeegee using the adjusting screw so that the ends of the squeegee blades still have contact with the floor. By turning the adjusting screw (C) counterclockwise, the clearance between squeegee blade and floor is increased in the center (Fig. 1). When turning the adjusting screw (C) clockwise, the clearance between squeegee blade and floor is reduced in the center (Fig. 2).
- Switch the machine on and check the suction pattern. When the machine is in operation, the full edge of the squeegee blades (center and outer areas) must be applied as evenly as possible.
- Tighten the lower wing nut (B) on the adjusting screw (C) against the metal bracket to lock in the pitch setting.
Adjusting the squeegee blades
Height adjustment
If streaks are present, despite an optimum angle adjustment, the clearance between the caster wheels and floor must be adjusted by changing the number of washers underneath the bracket that holds the wheel. The squeegee height is preset at the factory to 0.08 in (2 mm).
In cases of very uneven floors, e.g. grouted tile, etc., try 0.12 in (3 mm) illustration for washer configuration.
In cases of very uneven floors, e.g. poorly laid tiles (water does not run off), configure as shown in 0.16 in (4 mm) illustration.
Note: Keep the extra washers by installing them above the bracket as shown.
Handle adjustment
The E17/E20 handle was designed with operator comfort in mind. The angle and horizontal position of the handle can be adjusted to suit the needs of the operator.
Angle adjustment
The handle angle can be adjusted without tools by loosening the Angle Adjustment Knob (A) on each side and rotating the handle to the desired position. There are 5 angular positions 11.25° apart for a total of 45° between the minimum and maximum position.
Horizontal adjustment
The horizontal position can be adjusted by removing the 4 Mounting Bolts (B) (2 each side) with a 9/16” socket and sliding the Mounting Plate (P) to one of the 3 available positions. The machine is shipped from the factory in position 1.
Solution tank drain hose
The solution tank may be drained by removing the Solution Tank Drain Hose (A) from the Hose Barb (B) and routing the hose to a floor drain.
Solution level indicator
The Solution Tank Drain Hose also serves as a water level indicator for the solution tank. The amount of water remaining in the solution tank can be seen through the clear drain hose. Level markers molded into the solution tank are positioned at 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full levels.
Solution fill filter
The Solution Fill Filter (B) should be cleaned regularly. To remove, simply open the Solution Tank Lid (A) and pull the filter out.
Screened float
If the recovery tank (C) is overfilled or a large amount of foaming is present, the screened float (B) blocks the vacuum intake inside the tank protecting the vacuum motor and internal electronics from water damage. It is essential to keep the float in working order through regular maintenance.
The float should be cleaned daily by thoroughly rinsing with a hose. Removal of the screened float is not necessary for daily maintenance.
At least once a month the screened float should be completely removed, cleaned, and checked for any damage to the seal or metal screen.
Corrected an obvious misprint: "maintenace" printed as "maintenance" (as in the previous sentence).
Screened float removal
The screened float is positioned between the vacuum manifold (A) and recovery tank (C). The screened float (B) can be accessed by removing the 1.5” bolt (D) and two 1.25” bolts (E) that attach the manifold to the recovery tank using a 7/16” socket.
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Vacuum Manifold |
| B | Screened Float |
| C | Recovery Tank |
| D | 1.5” Bolt |
| E | 1.25” Bolt (2) |
| F | Helical Washer (3) |
| G | Flat Washer (3) |
Recovery tank drain hose
Twist cap to open and drain.
Deck skirt removal
(Do not lower with out brush)
In-line solution filter assembly
The solution solenoid, which shuts off solution flow when the bail handle is released, is protected from debris by the in-line filter assembly. The filter assembly is located at the rear of the machine on the left hand side, just under the solution tank. It is important to check and clean the screened washer inside the assembly regularly to ensure proper solution flow. To open, unscrew the assembly (Note that the cone of the washer is facing out toward the rear of the machine). Remove washer and rinse, reinsert and screw assembly together, tightening by hand. Overtightening with tools may damage the plastic threads.
| Callout | Part |
|---|---|
| A | Fitting, MGHT |
| B | Screened Washer |
| C | Hose Barb Insert |
| D | Fitting, FGHT |
The E17/E20
This machine was designed with total operator comfort and ease of use in mind. All machine components have been designed as a total system to efficiently clean dirty floors. The E17/E20 has two available scrub head types and sizes to fit specific applications. Please contact your Minuteman representative for specific recommendations for the correct scrub head type, size, and brush type and chemical applications.
Before using the machine, always perform the following steps to ensure proper machine operation:
• Check under the machine for leaks.
• Check the rear squeegee for wear and damage.
• Check the solution and recovery tank levels.
After using the machine, always perform the following steps:
• Check for wire, string, or twine wrapped around the scrub brushes.
• Check the rear squeegee for wear and damage.
• Check the rear squeegee suction hose for obstructions.
• Drain and clean the recovery tank and drain hose cap.
• Check under the machine for leaks.
• Check the service records to determine maintenance requirements.
- Be sure you understand the machine controls and their functions.
- While on ramps or inclines, avoid sudden stops when tanks are filled.
- Avoid abrupt sharp turns. Slow down driving speed when going downhill.
To turn on machine
Turn key to operate position ( I )
To turn on vacuum
Lower squeegee into operate position, vacuum motor will turn on automatically.
To turn on brush motor
Move brush lift pedal from the “home” (down) position to the operating position (up). Depress the operator bail handle. Brush motor will turn on and assist to propel the machine forward.
To turn on cleaning solution
Move solution lever from closed (down) position up to the desired flow position.
NOTE: When you no longer want solution or stop the machine for an extended period of time, you must move the solution lever back to the closed (down) position. Otherwise, solution will continue to flow onto the floor.
Hour meter (optional)
Hour meter will automatically record operating time of the brush motor.
Solution solenoid (optional)
Water solenoid will operate when the brush motor is turned on. The solution lever must be moved to the desired operating position, but does not need to be moved to the closed position when stopping for brief periods.
Machine operation
This page is blank in the printed manual.
Loading brush
- To load the brush, first center the E17/E20 brush deck over the scrub brush.
- Lower the scrub deck by releasing the deck lift pedal.
- With the key turned on, pull the bail handle to engage the scrub brush onto the scrubdeck.
Unloading brush
- To unload the brush, first lift the scrub deck by pressing down on the deck lift pedal. Make sure the pedal is in the “home” position shown below.
- Momentarily turn the key (1 to 2 seconds) to the “Brush Unload” position then let the key return to the off (O) position.
- When done correctly the brush should release from the scrub deck and fall to the floor.
Notes
This page is blank in the printed manual.
Notes
This page is blank in the printed manual.
After use
- When finished scrubbing, lift the scrub deck and turn the solution lever off. Lift the rear squeegee. Move the machine to a service area for daily maintenance and review items that may need service.
- Empty the solution tank by disconnecting the solution tank drain hose from the barb fitting and routing hose to a drain. Rinse the tank with clean water to prevent any buildup of dried chemicals that could clog the plumbing inside the recovery tank, and the drain hose cap.
- Empty and clean the recovery tank by flushing with a hose. Be sure to also clean the float shut off screen.
- Remove the brush or pad holder and rinse them in warm water and hang to dry.
- Remove the rear squeegee, rinse with warm water and reinstall after cleaning.
- Check the maintenance schedule in the next section and perform any required maintenance before storing the machine.
- Store the machine indoors in a clean dry place. Keep from freezing. Leave solution and recovery tank lids open for ventilation to prevent odor buildup.
- Turn Key switch OFF (O) and remove key.
Maintenance
| Daily | Weekly | Monthly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check/Clean Tanks & Hoses | Check/Clean brush deck skirt | Lubrication – Grease Fittings | Check Carbon Brushes Parts › |
| Check/Clean the Brush/Pad Parts › | Check/Clean Solution Filter | ||
| Check/Clean the Squeegee Parts › | |||
| Check/Clean Vacuum Shut-Off Float in Recovery Tank |
Have a qualified service technician check the vacuum motor carbon motor brushes once a year or after 300 operating hours. The brush motor and transaxle motor carbon brushes should be checked every 500 hours or once a year.
NOTE: Refer to the Service Manual for more detail on maintenance and service repairs.
Regularly scheduled lubrication of certain machine parts should be performed to insure trouble-free operation of the machine. Apply a generous amount of grease into the fittings on the rear caster swivel (2) until grease seeps out around the bearings.
Apply lubricant or light machine oil to lubricate the:
• Pivot mounting point of the rear squeegee to the chassis (1)
• Rear squeegee caster wheel axle (2)
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Poor water pick-up | Worn or torn squeegee blades | Rotate or replace blades Parts › |
| Recovery tank full | Empty recovery tank | |
| Recovery tank drain hose leak | Secure drain hose cap or replace Parts › | |
| Recovery tank lid gasket leak | Replace gasket lid cover properly Parts › | |
| Debris caught in squeegee | Clean squeegee | |
| Vacuum hose clogged | Remove debris and flush hose | |
| Using too much solution | Adjust solution control lever | |
| Recovery hose to squeegee or recovery tank disconnected or damaged | Reconnect or replace recovery hose Parts › | |
| Poor scrubbing performance | Worn brush | Replace brush or pad Parts › |
| Wrong brush or cleaning chemical | Consult Minuteman | |
| Debris caught on scrub brush | Remove debris | |
| Moving machine too fast | Slow down | |
| Not using enough solution | Adjust solution flow setting | |
| Retaining ring on brush motor shaft not in groove | Remove brush hub assembly and slide ring into groove | |
| Inadequate solution flow or no solution to the floor | Solution tank empty | Fill solution tank |
| Solution lines, valves, or filter clogged | Flush lines and clean solution filter. | |
| Solution Lever in down position | Move lever up | |
| Machine does not operate | Tripped Control Power circuit breaker | Reset Breaker |
| Cord is not plugged in completely | Check twist-lock connection and wall plug | |
| Wall outlet circuit breaker tripped | Reset Breaker |
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum motor does not turn on | Recovery tank full | Empty recovery tank |
| Excessive foaming in recovery tank. | Empty recovery tank. Use less or change chemical. Use defoaming agent. | |
| Carbon Brushes worn | Replace carbon brushes Parts › | |
| Vacuum switch disconnected | Connect wiring behind dash panel | |
| Tripped vacuum motor circuit breaker | Reset breaker | |
| Broken vacuum limit switch | Replace switch by squeegee lift lever Parts › | |
| Squeegee in raised position | Lower squeegee | |
| Brush does not unload | Foot pedal not in “home” position | Place pedal in notch |
| Tripped brush motor circuit breaker | Reset breaker | |
| Broken brush motor switch | Replace switch by foot pedal Parts › | |
| Damaged brush block or drive hub | Replace Parts › | |
| Retaining ring on brush motor shaft not in groove | Remove brush hub assembly and slide ring into groove |
Minuteman International Made Simple Commercial Limited Warranty
REVISION F EFFECTIVE 6/1/2009
Minuteman International, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser/user that the product is free from defects in workmanship and materials under normal use. Minuteman will, at its option, repair or replace without charge, parts that fail under normal use and service when operated and maintained in accordance with the applicable operation and instruction manuals. All warranty claims must be submitted through and approved by factory authorized repair stations.
This warranty does not apply to normal wear, or to items whose life is dependent on their use and care, such as belts, cords, switches, hoses, rubber parts, electrical motor components or adjustments. Parts manufactured by Minuteman are covered by and subject to the warranties and/or guarantees of their manufacturers. Please contact Minuteman for procedures in warranty claims against these manufacturers.
Special warning to purchaser — Use of replacement filters and/or prefilters not manufactured by Minuteman or its designated licensees, will void all warranties expressed or implied. A potential health hazard exists without original equipment replacement.
All warranted items become the sole property of Minuteman or its original manufacturer, whichever the case may be.
Minuteman disclaims any implied warranty, including the warranty of merchantability and the warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. Minuteman assumes no responsibility for any special, incidental or consequential damages.
This limited warranty is applicable only in the U.S.A. and Canada, and is extended only to the original user/purchaser of this product. Customers outside the U.S.A. and Canada should contact their local distributor for export warranty policies. Minuteman is not responsible for costs or repairs performed by persons other than those specifically authorized by Minuteman. This warranty does not apply to damage from transportation, alterations by unauthorized persons, misuse or abuse of the equipment, use of non-compatible chemicals, or damage to property, or loss of income due to malfunctions of the product.
If a difficulty develops with this machine, you should contact the dealer from whom it was purchased.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of special, incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions and limitations may not apply to you.
Cord electric group warranty
Cord Electric Group: Three years parts, two years labor, ninety days travel (Not to exceed two hours)
Exceptions
| Model | Parts | Labor | Poly | Travel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port A Scrub | 1 yr | 6 months | 10 yrs | 0 |
| MPV 13 | 1 yr | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| MPV 14 & 18 | 2 yrs | 1 yr | 0 | 0 |
| V Series Upright Vacuums | 1 yr | 1 yr | 0 | 0 |
| Rapid Air Blower | 1 yr | 1 yr | 10 yrs | 0 |
| Explosion Proof Vacuum | 1 yr | 1 yr | 0 | 0 |
| X12, X12H & TRS 14 | 1 yr | 1 yr | 10 yrs | 0 |
| E17 & E20 Electric Scrubbers | 1 yr | 6 months | 10 yrs | 0 |
| Pneumatic Vacuums | 3 yr | 1 yr | 0 | 0 |
| Description | Parts | Labor | Poly | Travel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Operated Group | 3 yrs | 2 yrs | 10 | 90 days |
| Sweepers | 1 yr | 1 yr | 10 | 90 days |
| Internal Combustion Group | 1 yr | 1 yr | 10 | 90 days |
| Not to exceed two hours | ||||
| Exception: PAS 14B | 1 yr | 1 yr | 10 yr | 0 |
| Item | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Battery Chargers: | One year replacement |
| Replacement Parts: | Ninety days |
| Batteries: | 0-3 months replacement, 4-12 months pro-rate |
| Polyethylene Plastic Tanks: | Tanks have 10yr warranty, no additional labor |
Minuteman International
Minuteman International · 14N845 U.S. Route 20 · Pingree Grove, Illinois 60140 USA
Phone 800-323-9420 · Fax 800-422-6933
www.minutemanintl.com
A Member of the Hako Group
988720UME
Rev * 07/11
Minuteman and PowerBoss are trademarks of Minuteman International, Inc. Southeastern Equipment & Supply is an independent dealer.
