16Operation
INTENDED USE: This machine is designed for removing thatch from your lawn, renovation of existing lawns, and to assist in overseeding operations. The machine should not be used for any other purpose than that stated above.
ADJUSTING BLADE DEPTH
Do not operate if excessive vibration occurs. If excessive vibration occurs, shut engine off immediately and check for
Counter Clockwise:
Clockwise:
damaged or worn reel, loose pulley bolts or set screws, loose engine or lodged foreign objects. (See trouble shooting section on page 12).
Like all mechanical tools, reasonable care must be used when operating machine.
Inspect machine work area and machine before operat- ing. Make sure that all operators of this equipment are trained in general machine use and safety.
STARTING ENGINE
To raise blades
To lower blades
ENGINE: See engine manufacturer’s instructions for type and amount of oil and gasoline used.
Engine must be level when checking and filling oil and gasoline.
ENGINE SPEED: Controlled by throttle lever on the engine. Under normal conditions, operate at full throttle to accom- plish your task.
FUEL VALVE: Move fuel valve to "ON" position (Honda only).
CHOKE: Operated with lever on the engine.
THROTTLE: Move throttle control on engine to fast position. Pull starting rope to start engine.
IF YOUR UNIT FAILS TO START:
See Troubleshooting on page 12.
BLADE POSITION & DEPTH CONTROL LEVER
The blades can be raised or lowered into the ground by height adjusment lever on the engine base. The resulting blade depth can be adjusted higher or lower.
See ADJUSTING BLADE DEPTH.
BLADES UP
TRANSPORT
BLADES DOWN
RUNNING
The depth of the blades can be raised or lowered by rotating the knob on the top of the adjustment lever. The blades are lowered by rotating the knob clockwise, and raised by rotating the knob
RAKING OPERATION
DO NOT- Use this machine on any surface other than a lawn. DO NOT- Use this machine on slopes in excess of 19°.
DO NOT- Allow persons unfamiliar with this equipment to operate it. DO NOT- Allow children to operate this equipment.
MOW: Mow the lawn to it's normal cut height
DRY: Be sure grass is dry. Wet conditions can cause in- creased damage to healthy grass.
SET DEPTH: With engine off, set the raking depth so that the blades just touch on a flat surface (i.e. driveway, or sidewalk).
START ENGINE: See above.
ENGAGE BLADES: Pull back on the bail on the operators
handle. NOTE: When engaging the blades in heavy load conditions (i.e. heavy thatch, or very uneven turf), push down on the operators handle lifting the front wheels slightly. Engage the blades. Slowly lower the unit into the turf.
RAKE: Rake a small test area and examine the results. Thatch should be removed and deposited on top of the healthy grass. If excessive damage occurs to healty grass, adjust the blade depth to decrease damage. Continue raking the yard, working in one direction (i.e.
REMOVE THATCH: After raking, a layer of thatch will be deposited over the top of the lawn. This thatch must be removed prior to any fertilizing, seeding, or watering of the lawn. We suggest the use of a lawn vacuum or wheeled blower for collection and removal of the thatch.
Part No. 350245 | Page 5 of 12 | Form No. F021805A |
