OPERATION
CAUTION: Spike disks have sharp points. Exercise caution at all times when using the aerator.
BEFORE USING YOUR AERATOR
•DO NOT attempt to aerate if ground is muddy.
•If ground is extremely hard or dry, it is recommended that it be watered down for 1 or 2 hours prior to use.
•Mow lawn and remove loose clippings prior to use of lawn aerator.
•Attach the aerator to the tractor hitch and check to see that the aerator is level. Adjust by loosening the bolts which fasten the hitch mount arms to the hitch arm mount brackets. Raise or lower the position of the arms until the aerator is level. See figure 9.
HOW TO USE YOUR AERATOR
Aerating cuts small holes in the soil to create reservoirs that bring oxygen, fertilizer and water into the root zone. For best performance of the spike aerator attachment, the following lawn preparation and operation is recommended.
•Start tractor engine with controls in neutral and place throttle at slow engine speed.
•Engage shift lever into lowest possible forward speed and increase speed as conditions permit.
•Aerate in the straightest line possible, making overlapping passes to increase spike point pattern.
•To prevent lawn damage, avoid sharp turns.
•On sloped lawns aerate in up and down direction. DO NOT aerate across the face of slopes.
•To increase spike point depth penetration add weight as required. The aerator frame holds up to three concrete blocks at approximately 35 pounds each. Weights can be secured to frame with straps or other binding material. See figure 9.
CONCRETE BLOCK | HITCH ARM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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HITCH MOUNT ARMS
FIGURE 9
MAINTENANCE/STORAGE
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
•Read and follow the maintenance schedule and the maintenance procedures listed in this section.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Fill in dates as you complete regular service.
Check for loose fasteners
Check for worn or damaged parts Cleaning
Lubricate Spike Disk Hubs
each | use use | |||
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BeforeAfter | each | Before | ||
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| Every |
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X
X X
XX
X
Service Dates
•Spiker points can be sharpened with a small grinder periodically to maintain good penetration. Spike disks should be removed to sharpen points.
•Before each use check nuts and bolts for tightness.
•Clean after each use. If rust appears on shield or spikes, sand lightly and coat with enamel paint.
•Lubricate the spike disk hubs with a small amount of light oil or grease at the beginning of each season.
•Always store in dry area when not in use. Coat bare metal with light oil or paint.