OWNER’S MANUAL

Part No. Z7100

Instructions for the
JUGS
Combination Pitching Machine

REV 5

SAVE THIS MANUAL

 ATTENTION:
Coaches and Operators of the
Combination (Combo) Pitching Machine:

This manual must be kept with the pitching machine

at all times.

Each coach and/or operator

must read and understand the instructions in this manual
before using
the JUGS Combination Pitching Machine.

Call (1-800-547-6843 or 503-692-1635)

if you need additional copies.
 Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Product Safety Signs and Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Rules for Safe Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Transporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Set Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Speed Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Fielding Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Product Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Operator Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

1
 Introduction
Your new JUGS pitching machine has been checked for quality and
craftsmanship. Its innovative design is backed by three decades of research,
development and manufacturing experience. It has many features designed
to make your practices more efficient and enjoyable. Safety, performance and
dependability have been given top priority in the design of all JUGS pitching
machines, making them easy to operate and maintain. With proper care, your
JUGS pitching machine will give you many years of enjoyable service.
At JUGS, we are committed to providing our customers with safe, dependable
products. Your comments are always welcome and they help us to continue
to be the #1 producer of ball-throwing machines in the world. Call or write to
JUGS about your pitching machine.

2
 Product Safety Signs & Labels
Safety Alert Symbols
Safety Alert Symbols indicate DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. These
symbols may be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
Failure to obey a safety warning will result in serious injury to yourself or to
others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of electric shock
and personal injury.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This signal word
is to be limited to the most extreme situations.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also
be used to alert against unsafe practices.

Product Safety Signs and Labels

The purpose of product safety signs and labels is to attract your attention to
possible dangers. The safety symbols, signal words and the explanations with
them, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings
do not by themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they
give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.

3
 Safety Signs and Labels
Carefully read all safety-sign decals affixed to your JUGS pitching machine
before operating it. See some typical examples below.

DANGER
-MECHANICAL HAZARD- READ ALL
OPERATING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
USING THIS MACHINE. ONLY INSTRUCTED
PERSONNEL SHALL OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
CJC-1

! DANGER
-IMPACT HAZARD- MAKE SURE PATH OF BALL IS
CLEAR TO THE BATTER BEFORE FEEDING THE BALL.
CJC-4

! DANGER
-SHOCK HAZARD- ALWAYS UNPLUG MACHINE
BEFORE CHANGING FUSES.
CJC-5a

! DANGER
-SHOCK HAZARD- THIS MACHINE SHALL BE USED
AND STORED IN DRY LOCATIONS ONLY.
CJC-2

WARNING
-PINCH POINT HAZARD- DO NOT PLACE HANDS OR
OTHER BODY PARTS INTO AREA NEAR MOVING TIRE(S).
CJC-3

WARNING
-MECHANICAL HAZARD- ALL TIRE LUG BOLTS MUST
BE CHECKED FOR TIGHTNESS BEFORE EACH USE.
CJC-9

CAUTION
-STABILITY HAZARD- “T” HANDLE MUST BE IN PLACE
AND TIGHTENED BEFORE USING MACHINE.
CJC-7

Figure 1

4
 Rules For Safe Operation
WARNING: JUGS pitching machines are intended for use by
operators who are at least 18 years of age and who have
been instructed in their use.
WARNING: Do not attempt to operate this machine until you have
read thoroughly and understand completely all instructions,
safety rules, machine labels, etc., contained in this manual.
Failure to comply can result in accidents involving electric
shock or serious personal injury. Save this Owners Manual
and review frequently for continuing safe operation, and for
instructing others who may use this machine.
WARNING: Do not connect your pitching machine to a power source until
you have assembled and adjusted the machine as described
in this manual and have read and understood all precautions
and operating instructions in the manual and printed on the
machine.
READ THIS MANUAL:

• Know Your Pitching Machine. Read the Owner’s Manual carefully.

Learn the machine’s capabilities, features and limitations as well as the
specific potential hazards related to this machine.

• Guard against electrical shock by preventing body contact with

grounded surfaces. For example: radiators, pipes, fences, or other
enclosures.

• Keep the operator’s area free of clutter. Pick up all loose balls around
the machine and keep ball supply in a pail, bucket or other suitable
container. Cluttered operating areas invite accidents.

• Do not allow children to operate the pitching machine. You must be
at least 18 years of age or older and instructed in the proper operation,
maintenance, care, and storage of this machine before operating it. Close
supervision is necessary when this machine is used near children.

5
 Rules For Safe Operation
• Use the right ball. Use only JUGS dimpled style, Lite-Flite , Softie , one-
® ®

ounce polyball baseballs, high-quality leather baseballs (9-inch Wilson

A1010 equal or better), or tennis balls in this machine.

• Inspect extension cords periodically and replace if damaged.

• Use the proper extension cord. Make sure your extension cord is in
good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy
enough to carry the current your machine will draw. An undersized cord
will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.
A wire gauge size (AWG) of at least 16 is recommended for an extension
cord 25 feet or less in length. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The
smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

• Do not abuse the cord. Never yank cord to disconnect it from receptacle.
Keep cord away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Stay constantly aware of
cord location and keep it well away from the rotating tires.

• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings,

bracelets, or other jewelry. They can get caught and draw you into the
moving parts. Long hair should be tied up and tucked under hats and
helmets. Severe physical harm may result if loose clothing, jewelry or hair
is caught in rotating tires.

• Always wear safety glasses and batting helmets while the wheels
are rotating. Debris on the tires can fly off and cause physical harm.
Everyday eyeglasses have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses.

• Never touch rotating tires. Do not put hands or fingers into ball feed
chute. Hands and fingers should only go to the edge of the chute (or the
edge of the sleeve in the case of fly ball or pop-up practice).

• Inspect machine before every use. If damaged, have it repaired by a

qualified JUGS service technician.

• Inspect tires before every use. Be sure tires are free of grit and debris
before turning on machine.

6
 Rules For Safe Operation
• Do not use machine if ON/OFF switch does not work. In the unlikely
event that the switch becomes defective, have it replaced by a qualified
JUGS service technician.

• Keep machine clean, and free of grit and dirt. With the machine
unplugged, use only a clean damp cloth for cleaning. Never use brake
fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or any solvents to clean
machine.

• Tighten Lock Knobs and T-Clamps securely after adjusting trajectory.

• To protect the operator, a pitcher’s screen must be placed in front of the
pitching machine.

• Only operate and store this pitching machine in a clean, dry location.
Do not use outdoors if it is raining. If machine becomes wet, do not use.
A potential shock hazard exists if this machine is used while or after it has
been exposed to water. Hand dry surface water from machine with a clean
cloth and allow the machine to completely air dry before its next use.

• Avoid awkward operations and hand positions where a sudden slip

could cause your hand to move into the rotating tires. ALWAYS make sure
you have good footing and balance.

• Replacement parts: All repairs, whether electrical or mechanical, should

be made by a qualified JUGS service technician. When servicing, use
only JUGS replacement parts.

• Do not operate this machine under the influence of drugs, alcohol,
or any medication.

• Stay alert and exercise control. Watch what you are doing and use
common sense. Do not operate this machine when you are tired. Do not
rush.

• Avoid accidental starting when reconnecting to a power supply.

Always turn off machine before disconnecting it from power source. Never
leave machine running unattended. Turn the power off. Do not leave
machine until tires come to a complete stop.

7
 WARNING: Do not allow your familiarity with the machine to cause you to
be careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second
is enough time to inflict severe injury to yourself or others.
SAVE THIS MANUAL. Refer to it often and use it to instruct other users. Do
not loan your pitching machine to anyone who has not been instructed in its
use. If you do loan your machine, be sure this manual goes with it.

Electrical
Grounding Instructions
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the
risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord having an equipment-
grounding conductor and grounding plug. The plug must be connected to an
appropriate GFCI outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance
with all local codes and ordinances.
Do not modify the plug provided. If it will not fit the outlet, have the proper outlet
installed by a qualified electrician. Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. The conductor with
insulation having an outer surface that is green with or without yellow stripes
is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or replacement of the electric
cord or plug is necessary, do not connect the equipment-grounding conductor
to a live terminal.
Check with a qualified electrician or service personnel if the grounding
instructions are not completely understood, or if in doubt as to whether the
pitching machine is properly grounded.

Extension Cords
Use only 3-wire 16 AWG or larger grounding type extension cords that have 3-
prong grounding plugs and 3-pole receptacles that accept the machine’s plug.
When using the machine at a considerable distance from a power source,
use an extension cord heavy enough to carry the current that the machine will

8
draw. An undersized extension cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting
in a loss of power and causing the motor to overheat. Only round jacketed
cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) should be used.
When working with the machine outdoors, use an extension cord designed for
outside use. This is indicated by the letters “WA” on the cord’s jacket. Before
using the extension cord, inspect it for loose or exposed wires and cut or worn
insulation.
WARNING: Keep the cord away from the rotating tire area. Repair or
replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.

Electrical Connection
Your JUGS pitching machine is powered by a 90 volt motor(s). Do not operate
this machine on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop will cause a
loss of power and the motor will overheat. If the machine does not operate
when plugged into an outlet, double check the power supply. Your pitching
machine will operate under a standard 110 voltage AC outlet. Do not use an
adapter with this product.
This machine is intended for use on a circuit that has an outlet like the one
shown in Figure 2. It also has a grounding pin like the one shown.

Figure 2

9
 Terminology

COMBO BASEBALL
DIAGRAM

Figure 3

10
 Terminology

COMBO
SOFTBALL
DIAGRAM

Figure 4

11
 Unpacking
WARNING: To prevent accidental starting or electrical shock that could
cause possible serious injury, assemble all parts to your
machine before connecting it to the power supply. The
pitching machine should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making adjustments,
cleaning, servicing, or when not in use.
1. Carefully lift machine from carton and place on level surface.
2. Make sure you have all the parts. (See Figures 3-4.) If any parts are
missing, do not operate the machine until the missing parts are replaced.
Failure to do so could result in possible serious personal injury.
3. Do not discard the packing materials until you have carefully inspected the
machine, identified all the parts, and satisfactorily operated the machine.
NOTE:
If any parts are damaged or missing, do not attempt to plug in the power cord
and turn on switch until the damaged or missing parts are obtained and are
installed correctly.

Transporting
• To move the pitching machine, slowly tip machine over until tires rest on
the ground. Grasp and lift two legs and roll on wheels to new position as
you would a wheelbarrow. The JUGS pitching machine will fit in the trunk
of a car by removing it’s legs.

• Do not roll tires on surfaces that might damage the tire. If the tire becomes
deformed, flat, or damaged, it must be repaired or replaced before using
the machine. (See tire specifications, Page 28.)
WARNING: Never leave pitching machine unattended.

12
 Set Up
Setup for Baseball Use:
1. With the tire side down, place the triangular leg clamp in the leg clamp
casting. (See Figure 3.)
2. Insert the threaded end of the Leg T-Clamp through the center hole in the
leg clamp casting and start the threads.
3. Install one leg in each round hole in the center piece of the leg clamp
casting. Tighten the Leg T-Clamp sufficiently to hold the legs in place very
snugly.
4. Place rubber leg caps on lower end of legs if JUGS is to be used indoors.
The leg caps are not recommended for outdoor use.
5. Lift the pitching machine upright.
IMPORTANT:
Always set up the pitching machine so that the two legs are positioned in
front, facing the pitching screen and batter, and one leg facing back toward
the operator.
6. Check both speed dials and make sure they are in the full counter-
clockwise position (pointer at “0” setting) and the toggle switch is in the
OFF position.
7. Loosen Handle Bar Lock Knob on top of handle bar and position machine
to aim at desired target. Tighten the lock knob. (You will have to practice
this targeting so you will know how to set the machine for each pitch.)
8. Slide the right wheel toward the left wheel and position the base ball
feed chute assembly so that its two mounting holes line up with the two
mounting holes on the pitching machine. See red stripe on the casting for
proper hole alignment. Insert and securely tighten the two lock knobs into
their appropriate mounting holes. You are now ready to throw baseballs,
tennis balls, or poly baseballs.

13
 Set Up
9. Plug heavy-duty, No. 16 gauge three-prong, extension cord into 110-volt
GFCI outlet and connect to short cord on pitching machine. Place the
pitcher’s screen in front of the pitching machine to protect the operator
and the pitching machine from batted balls.
For Poly Baseball (Whiffle type only) Use:
Set dials no more that five (5) digits apart. Be sure to reset speed dials 35
digits apart before use with baseballs.

WARNING: Leg and Base T-Clamps must always be tightened securely
before throwing pitches. All lock knobs must also be
tightened firmly before using the pitching machine.
DANGER: Do not throw pitches without the correct size ball feed chute
assembly properly secured.

Setup for Tennis Use:

Tennis balls can be thrown by this machine. Follow setup instructions
as outlined above in “Setup for Baseball Use.” However, you must first
inflate the tires to a pressure of 25 pounds per square inch (psi). Be sure
to deflate tires to 16-17 pounds for baseball use and reset the speed dials
35 digits apart before using baseballs.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
See page 24 under “Operation: Tennis Balls” for tennis ball settings BEFORE
using this machine with tennis balls.

14
 Set Up
To Convert Setup from Baseball to Softball Use
1. Place JUGS upside down, with tires flat on ground or floor and legs
pointing upwards.
2. Loosen Leg T-Clamp, which secures legs in place, and remove long legs
from sockets.
3. Place the curved ends of the three short legs in sockets so that the
distance between the legs is the same. (See Figure 4.)

4. Firmly tighten Leg T-Clamp to hold the legs in place very snugly.
5. Lift the pitching machine upright. Two legs should be facing toward the
batter, with one leg facing backward.
 o switch from baseball use to softball use or vice versa, you must adjust the
T
distance between the tires and attach the appropriate-size ball-feed chute
assembly.
6. To adjust the distance between the tires, loosen and remove the two
locking knobs under the right wheel and ball feed chute.
7. After the lock knobs are removed, slide the right wheel away from the
left wheel and position the softball feed chute assembly so that its two
mounting holes line up with the two mounting holes on the pitching
machine. See red stripes on the casting for proper hole alignment. Insert
and tighten securely the two lock knobs into their appropriate mounting
holes. You are now ready to throw softballs.
NOTE:
To make the mounting of the ball feed chute assembly easier, always insert
and secure the lock knob located directly under the ball feed chute first before
inserting and securing the lock knob located under the right wheel.

15
 Operation
Your JUGS Combination (Combo) Pitching machine has the versatility to
throw baseballs, softballs, tennis balls and polyballs.
1. Operators of JUGS Pitching Machines must wear safety glasses and
batting helmets at all times.
2. Check speed dial and make sure it is in the full counter-clockwise position
(pointer at “0”) and the toggle switch is in the OFF position.
3. Plug heavy-duty, No. 16 gauge three-prong, extension cord into II0-volt
A/C outlet and connect to short cord on pitching machine. Place the
pitcher’s screen in front of the pitching machine to protect the operator
and the pitching machine from batted balls.
4. Loosen Base T-Clamp and aim machine at desired target. Re-tighten
Base Clamp. To adjust trajectory, loosen Handle Bar Lock Knob (Figure
3) and adjust until desired trajectory is attained, then tighten securely. For
fine adjustments, loosen lock knob slightly and adjust Handle Bar down,
or sideways. (It is normal to throw five or six test balls before arriving at
the setting and aim point you desire).
5. Place toggle switch in the ON position. Gradually turn speed dials to
desired speed.
6. Have all batters and observers stand well clear of the target as you throw
practice balls to adjust trajectory. Tighten Handle Bar securely. Always
have the batter stand clear while adjusting your JUGS pitching machine.
7. At the beginning of practice, or after any change in speed, curve, or
trajectory, have the batter stand well clear while at least one test ball is
thrown to make sure the ball is thrown at the desired target. If you move
the machine for any reason, repeat this process.
8. Throw balls at speeds the batter can learn to hit. As the batter’s skills
increase you can throw faster pitches.

16
 Operation
9. When you increase speed of any pitch, you must lower elevation of aim;
when you decrease speed, you must increase the aim elevation.
10. Space all pitches approximately six seconds apart. Try to get the batter
to regard each pitch as a “separate” pitch and not to be an “automatic”
swinger.
11. Always “show” the ball to batter. When you are certain the batter has
acknowledged that he or she is ready, set ball in feed chute and release.
Do not drop the ball into the chute.
12. Do not permit more than one or two persons around the pitching machine
during its operation.
13. Do not permit the pitching machine to fall on its wheels. This could result
in non-warranty damage.
14. Check tightness of all bolts and nuts at regular intervals. If any looseness,
vibration, or rattle is noticed, correct immediately before further use.
15. Always turn speed dials to the full counter-clockwise position when
throwing is completed or temporarily stopped. Then turn toggle switch to
the OFF position.

WARNING: A pitching screen must be used to protect the operator and

the machine from batted balls.

NOTE:
We suggest that each operator spend a couple of hours experimenting with
the JUGS pitching machine. Try many different speed settings. Do not be
afraid that any setting you make will harm the pitching machine; however, you
should use a wide backstop when experimenting with faster speeds.

17
 Operation
Pitching to Batters
Follow all safety performance instructions in this manual. The following
feeding instructions should be used to insure accurate and efficient operation
of the JUGS pitching machine.

IMPORTANT PITCHING MACHINE FEEDING INSTRUCTIONS:

• When feeding the machine with leather balls, hold the ball the same way
every time. Across the seams is best, especially for curveballs.

• Have all batters and observers stand well clear of the target as you throw
test balls to adjust trajectory and aiming point.

• VERY IMPORTANT: Before you place the ball in the feeding chute,
you should look up at the batter and make absolutely sure the
batter is watching you and is ready to receive the pitch. It is
extremely important that you make sure that the immediate area in front
of the pitching machine and the flight path of the ball is clear before you
feed the balls into the pitching machine.

• When the batter has taken his/her stance and indicates he or she is ready
to hit, hold the ball high in the air where the batter can see the ball. Then
bring the ball down to the chute simulating live action so that the batter
can time the ball correctly. Set the ball in the feed chute and release.
Do not drop the ball into the chute. Watch the ball into the wheels, then
look up at the batter. The whole feeding operation should be smooth and
without interruption.

• Every batter, after taking his/her stance, as well as between pitches, goes
through a personal readiness routine. The ball feeder should adjust the
pitch spacing to each batters’ habits accordingly. This will assure that
the batter is ready to receive the pitch and will also help to simulate live
action. The batter can then regard each throw as a separate pitch and
avoid becoming an “automatic swinger”. Generally speaking, pitches can
be spaced between 6 and 10 seconds apart.

18
 Operation
NOTE:
Follow the above feeding instructions when using your JUGS pitching machine
for fielding practice as further described in this manual. (See page 26.)
• Out-of-round, soft, mushy, or wet balls will affect accuracy of pitches and
must not be used. Mixing different types of balls (leather, rubber, JUGS,
etc.) will affect consistency of pitches. For best accuracy, throw only one
type of ball at a time.

• Use only JUGS dimpled style, JUGS Pearls®, Lite-Flite®, Softie®, Poly
Baseballs, Poly Softballs, high-quality leather baseballs (Wilson A1010
equal or better) or softballs, or tennis balls in this machine.

• Do not permit more than one or two persons around the pitching machine
during its operation.
BATTING HELMETS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES.

• Operators of JUGS Pitching Machines must wear safety glasses and

batting helmets at all times.

Figure 5. Control Panel

19
 Operation
Throwing Curveballs:
1. Place toggle switch on the Control Panel (Figure 5) in the ON position.
Gradually turn right-hand speed dial to full clockwise position. The right
wheel will be turning rapidly clockwise and the left wheel will be turning
slowly counter-clockwise.
a. The above will result in the maximum right-hand curve. Dial settings
should be reversed for a left-hand curve.
b. For overhand curves, loosen lock knob and tilt pitching machine to a
65 degree angle with faster turning wheel highest.
c. To increase the speed of the ball, turn dial for slower turning wheel
clockwise.
d. To reduce the speed of the ball, or to reduce the amount of curve,
turn dial counter-clockwise for the faster turning wheel.
2. Loosen Handle Bar lock knob (Figure 3) and adjust until desired trajectory
is attained, then tighten securely. For fine adjustments, loosen lock knob
slightly and adjust Handle Bar down, or sideways. (It is normal to throw
five or six test balls before arriving at the curve setting and aim point you
desire.) Always have the batter and others stand clear while adjusting
your JUGS pitching machine and throwing test balls.
3. Be sure to try different settings. For example, when throwing a right-hand
curve, set the right hand dial at 70, 75, or 80 and the left hand dial at 30,
35, or 40. Observe the curve and speed of the ball and decide whether
the settings used give you the speed and type of curve desired. Most
coaches devise a table for the operators of the pitching machine to show
what settings to use for any given practice.
NOTE:
The greater the speed differential between the wheels, the greater the curve.
Conversely, a smaller differential will result in a smaller curve.

20
 Operation

a. Fastball and overhand curve. b. Sidearm curves, lefty or righty.

c. Right-handed curves or sliders. d. Left-handed curves or sliders.

Figure 6

Throwing Straight Balls:

1. A straight fastball can be thrown by setting the pitching machine with one
wheel directly on top of the other wheel (Figure 6a) and adjusting the
lower wheel to a faster speed than the upper wheel. A minimum of 35 digit
differential should be maintained between the speed dial settings of the
two wheels at all times.
2. To throw straight fastballs, you must set speed dials 35 digits apart, as
shown in Figure 7. For faster straight balls, turn both speed dials up the
same amount. For slower straight balls, turn both down the same amount.
Always keep the dials 35 digits apart.
3. To throw a rising fastball, you must have the lower wheel going faster
than the higher wheel. To throw a sinking fastball, you must have the
higher wheel going faster than the lower wheel.

21
 Operation
Dial Settings for Various Pitches
Use the following diagrams shown below in Figure 7 as guides for using the
JUGS Combo pitching machine. Each diagram shows the approximate tilt of
the wheels. Numbers represent the speed dial settings.
IMPORTANT: You may have to vary speeds slightly from the examples to
get the desired accuracy and consistency.
WARNING: Equal dial speeds and any dial-speed differential of less than
35 digits may result in a knuckleball. Knuckleballs can be
dangerous and SHOULD NOT be thrown.

Figure 7

22
 Operation
NOTE: We suggest that each operator spend a couple of hours experimenting
with the JUGS pitching machine. (Refer to Table 1, page 25.) You may want to
jot down the wheel position and speed dial settings in the space provided on
pages 29-30 for future reference. Try many different speed settings. Do not be
afraid that any setting you make will harm the pitching machine; however, you
should use a wide backstop when experimenting with faster speeds.

• At the beginning of practice, or after any change in speed, curve, or

trajectory, have the batter stand well clear while at least one test ball is
thrown to make sure the ball is thrown at the desired target. If you move
the machine for any reason, repeat this process.

• Throw balls at speeds the batter can learn to hit. As the batter’s skills
increase you can throw faster pitches.

• When you increase speed of any pitch, you must lower elevation of aim;
when you decrease speed, you must increase the aim elevation.

• Do not permit the pitching machine to fall on its wheels. This could result
in non-warranty damage.

• Check tightness of all bolts and nuts at regular intervals. If any looseness,
vibration, or rattle is noticed, correct immediately before further use.

• Always turn both dials to the full counter-clockwise position when throwing
is completed or temporarily stopped. Then turn toggle switch to the OFF
position.

IMPORTANT: If machine becomes wet during practice, turn off machine

immediately, and transport it to a clean, dry location. Dry surface water with a
soft, clean cloth and permit machine to completely air dry before next use.

WARNING: A pitching screen must be used to protect the operator and

the machine from batted balls.

23
 Operation
Fastpitch Softball
PItch balls for softball in generally the same manner as baseball, as described
on previous pages. For risers, position wheels vertically, with one wheel on top
of the other, and set dials the same as fastball settings for baseball.
Slowpitch Softball
Reduce speed accordingly on both dials, always maintaining the minimum
35-digit differential.
Loosen the large hand screw on top of the handle and tilt machine trajectory
upward until you achieve the desired arc on the pitch and tighten hand screw.
Tennis Balls
Start with a 60-60 setting for straight balls and 50-70 for curves. (Regular
baseball settings are too much for the tennis balls.)

Table 1 [right] is a detailed chart which depicts approximately how fast, in

miles per hour, a JUGS Curveball or JUGS Combination pitching machine is
throwing, when the dials are set in various positions.
The speeds listed, in miles per hour, are the average speeds of five throws at
each of the respective dial settings.
The “speed-to-dial settings” ratio will vary somewhat, depending on the air
pressure in the tires, the type of ball used, and the way in which the ball is fed
into the pitching machine. This chart will give you a fairly close approximation
of the ball speed.

24
 Approximate Speeds, in miles per hour, from the JUGS Cricket Bowling Machine

R I G H T- W H E E L D I A L S E T T I N G

WARNING:
Do not use any speed-dial setting
within this light shaded area.
They may result in knuckleballs,

25
which can be dangerous
and should not be thrown.

L E F T- W H E E L D I A L S E T T I N G
Example: If the left wheel is set at 65 and the right wheel is set at 100, the machine will bowl at approximately 89 mph.

Figure 8
 Fielding Practice
Fielding Practice
Your JUGS pitching machine can be locked in one position or you can loosen
and remove the Base T-Clamp which will allow you to turn the pitching
machine freely from side-to-side.

Figure 8: Ground balls Figure 9: Catcher pop-ups

Grounders (Figure 8)
Position the wheels so they point downward. The greater the downward angle,
the bigger the hop will be on the ground ball.

Flyballs and Pop-ups (Figure 9)

Position the wheels pointing upward. The greater the upward angle, the
steeper the angle of the flyball or the pop-up will be. For best results, loosen
the ball chute lock knob and remove the ball chute. This will then allow you to
“push” the ball into the sleeve.
The angle of the flyball, the pop-up, or the grounder, can be adjusted by
loosening the handle bar lock knob (power off) and changing the angle of
the wheels. Different spins can be put on the ball by changing the speed dial
settings.
WARNING: Keep hands and fingers away from tires and tire side edges
of ball chute. When throwing pop-ups, the operator must
wear a catcher’s mask. When finished throwing flyballs and
pop-ups, always reconnect the ball chute and tighten the ball
chute lock knob.

26
 Maintenance
Review the following instructions carefully to maintain maximum
accuracy with your JUGS Pitching Machine.

• Maintain tire pressure at 16 to 17 psi (25 psi for tennis balls).

Cleaning
• Keep machine clean, and free of grit and dirt. Always use a clean
damp cloth when cleaning. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-
based products, or any solvents to clean machine.

• Periodically, you must clean the tires to help maintain their maximum
performance. A dirty tire can easily be distinguished by either a dark ring
around the tire surface or when the surface itself has turned yellow and
has a very glossy or shiny finish.

• In order to begin cleaning you must first inflate the tires to approximately
17 pounds.

• Using medium grade sandpaper (sometimes an even coarser grade is

necessary, depending on the amount of soil buildup) begin to scrub
the tire surface. This process can be very tedious and may take up to
10 minutes per tire. However, it is necessary to completely remove all
foreign substances from the tires to prepare them for better machine
performance. You should sand the tires whenever you notice the soil
build-up forming. Always sand tires with the power switch OFF and
the machine unplugged.
Once you complete this operation the tire surface will, in most cases, take
on the white color it was originally. Maintaining the tire in this fashion will
not only maximize the performance and accuracy of your machine, but it
will extend the life of the tire.

Storage
• Always store machine and extension cord in separate, clean, dry secured
areas. Cover the machine with a suitable dust cover that does not retain
moisture. Do not use plastic.

27
 Product Specifications
JUGS Combination Pitching Machine Product Specifications:

Motor Specifications:
Variable Speed
Maximum developed horse power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1/4 hp
Volts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90vDC
Amps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 amps
Hertz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50/60 Hz
RPM (no load) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1900 rpm
Overload protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . yes

Tire Specifications:
Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.00/4.80-8
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 lbs.

Frame Specifications:
Legs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . steel tubing
Motor Mount and Leg Clamp Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cast aluminum
Ball Feed Chutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cast aluminum
Overall Height (Baseball) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 in.
(Softball) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 in.
Overall Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 in.
Overall Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 lbs.
Recommended Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yamaha® EF1000iS
 Recommended Balls . . . . . . . . . JUGS Balls or high-quality leather balls

IMPORTANT:
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge of the machine and should be
performed only by JUGS. For service, we suggest you return the machine to
JUGS for repair. Always use original factory replacement parts when servicing.

28
Operator Notes

29
Operator Notes

30
 Warranty
JUGS Sports guarantees that the JUGS® Pitching Machines are well made;
of good materials, and workmanship; and agrees that if, within five years after
shipment thereof, any part so guaranteed should fail because of defective
material or workmanship in its manufacture, the Company will repair or replace
such part, free of charge F.O.B. to its factory in Tualatin, Oregon; provided,
however, that upon request, the Buyer shall return the allegedly defective
part to the Company’s factory with transportation charges thereon prepaid.
Commercial use of any JUGS® product automatically limits this warranty to 30
days after date of shipment.
This warranty shall not be effective if the equipment has been subject to
misuse, negligence or accident, nor if the equipment has been repaired or
altered outside of our Tualatin factory in any respect which, in our judgment,
affects its condition or operation.

RETURN PERFORATED CARD BELOW TO JUGS SPORTS

Warranty Record
JUGS Serial No. Date Delivered:

Model:

Name:

Address:

Zip:

Phone: ( )

Purchased From:

Type of Activity (Youth League, High School, College, etc.):

Coach/Manager Name:
In the USA and Canada, call toll-free: 1-800-547-6843
Internationally, call collect: 0-503-692-1635
Fax us: 1-503-691-1100
Visit our website: www.jugssports.com

Model

Serial No.

Date Delivered

SAVE THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS

PLACE
STAMP
HERE

JUGS Sports
P.O. Box 365
Tualatin, Oregon 97062
 If you need
more information about
this product
or any other
JUGS product or service,
please contact
the manufacturer:

In the USA and Canada,

call toll-free:
1-800-547-6843.

For International Orders,

call collect:
0-503-692-1635.

Our fax number is

1-503-691-1100.

Visit our website at

www.jugssports.com.

Se habla español.

© 2008 JUGS Sports

ComPMI-1008