Operator's Manual

19
OPERATION
AERATING PROCEDURES
NOTE: When using needle tine heads, make sure to
read instructions, included with kit, for unique
operating procedure.
1. Lower the aerator on the 3-point linkage so that
the tines are nearly to the ground at the lowest part of
their stroke.
2. At a low tractor engine rpm, engage the power take
off (PTO) clutch to start the aerator working.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate aerator at 540 PTO rpm
when lifted out of the ground. This machine can be
damaged if operated at full speed without the tines
working in the turf. Never operate aerator without tine
heads installed
3. Select a gear that gives a forward speed of
approximately .6 - 2.5 MPH (I to 4 km/hr) at (refer to
tractor operator's manual) rated PTO speed.
4. As the clutch is released and the tractor moves
forward, lower the machine fully into the turf and
increase engine speed to give a maximum of 540 rpm
at the PTO.
IMPORTANT: Never operate the tractor PTO in excess
of 540 rpm or damage to the aerator could occur.
NOTE: Make sure that the roller is on the ground.
5. Note the hole pattern. If you require greater hole
spacing increase forward speed of the tractor by
changing up a gear or with a hydro-static drive tractor,
shift the hydrostat lever or pedal to give faster speed.
For closer hole spacing, decrease tractor forward
speed. Changing engine speed, in a particular gear,
WILL NOT change the hole pattern. Operate at an
engine speed that the aerator runs smoothly.
IMPORTANT: Look behind frequently to ensure the
machine is operating properly and alignment is
maintained with previous passes.
6. Use the front tractor wheel as a guide to maintain
equal lateral hole spacing with the previous pass.
7. At the end of the aeration pass, raise the aerator,
lower the engine rpm and disengage the PTO.
8. If you back into a tight area (like a tee box),
disengage the PTO and raise the aerator to it's highest
position. Use caution not to catch the turf guards on the
turf.
9. Always clear the area of all damaged machine
parts, such as broken tines, etc., to prevent their being
picked up by mowers or other turf maintenance
equipment.
10. Replace broken tines, inspect and correct damage
to those still useable. Repair any other machine
damage before commencing operation.
TRANSPORT OPERATION
To begin transport operation, raise the aerator and
disengage the PTO. To avoid loss of control, traverse
steep inclines slowly, approach rough areas at
reduced speed and cross severe undulations carefully.
Important: Do not exceed transport speeds of 15 mph
(24 km/hr).
CAUTION: Do not exceed the maximum or minimum
tractor tire inflation pressures as recommended by tire
manufacturer.
INSPECTION AND CLEAN-UP AFTER USE
After daily use, thoroughly wash the machine with a
garden hose without a nozzle so contamination and
seal and bearing damage due to excessive water
pressure will be avoided. A brush may be used to
remove cakedon material. Use mild detergent to clean
the covers. Applying a coat of auto wax periodically will
retain the cover's glossy finish. After cleaning, inspect
for machine damage, gear oil leakage, component and
tine wear.
OPERATING TIPS
1. Gradually engage PTO at low engine speed while
increasing throttle to 540 PTO rpm (maximum) while
lowering aerator. Operate at an engine rpm that the
aerator runs most smoothly.
NOTE: Changing engine / PTO rpm in a particular
tractor gear (or fixed hydrostatic pedal position on
tractors with hydrostatic transmission) will NOT
change forward hole spacing
IMPORTANT: Do not operate PTO at high rpms for
extended time periods when aerator is out of the
ground.
2. Make very gradual turns when aerating. Never
make sharp turns with PTO drive engaged. Plan your
aeration path before lowering the aerator.
3. If tractor bogs" down when operating on hard
ground or going uphill, raise aerator slightly until speed
is regained, then lower aerator again.
4. Do not aerate if ground is too hard or dry. Best
results are obtained after a rain or when turf has been
watered the previous day.
NOTE: If the roller rides up off the ground while
aerating, the ground is too hard to achieve the desired
depth, reduce the aeration depth until the roller
contacts the ground during operation.
5. Decrease aerator penetration, if ground is hard
packed. Clean-up cores and re-aerate at deeper
penetration, preferably after watering.
6. The aerator is offset to one side to allow aerating
without driving over the cores with the tractor tires.
Whenever possible, aerate with the longer offset
towards the previous aeration pass.