Instructions / Assembly

6
OPERATION / ADJUSTMENT
Regular removal of thatch is critical to maintenance of
a healthy lawn. Thatch is a layer of stems, clippings,
runners, roots and leaves that have not decayed.
Excessive thatch prevents air, water and fertilizer
from reaching the roots. The de-thatcher effectively
dislodges excessive thatch from your lawn. Read
these instructions to help avoid improper adjustment
and operation.
Proper adjustment of the tine shield and spring
tines is important for effective performance. Refer
to the following steps for the proper adjustment
before operating the de-thatcher.
1. Move the towing vehicle onto a level surface, such
as a driveway or garage floor and attach the tine
de-thatcher to the vehicle hitch. See figure 10.
2. To adjust the spring tine shield, lower the de-
thatcher into operating position using the lift
handle. Loosen the two hex nuts and carriage
bolts which fasten the rear of the hitch mount arms
to the hitch arm mount brackets. Adjust the tine
shield until it is level and both the front and rear
spring tines are in contact with the ground. Re-
tighten the hex nuts. See figure 10.
FIGURE 10
5. If the de-thatcher appears to be "jumping" during
use, then extra weight should be added to the tine
shield. In most conditions extra weight will be
needed. Concrete patio blocks are recommended
for weight because of their low profile; however
any type of weight is suitable if it can be tied down
to the shield. Secure weight by using suitable
binding material such as rubber tie down straps or
wire, fastening to the holes in the shield flange.
See figure 11.
3. Vary the vehicle's forward speed until the best
dethatching action is achieved.
4. For best results, use a crisscross pattern on your
lawn.
MAINTENANCE
1. Before each use check all nuts and bolts for
tightness.
2. Lubricate wheels as needed.
3. If rust appears on the shield or spring tines, sand
lightly and coat with enamel paint.
4. Always store in a dry area, and coat exposed
metal with light oil when not in use.
FIGURE 11
HITCH
MOUNT
ARMS
CARRIAGE BOLT
& HEX NUT