Aerator Safety & Operation Tips
Should I water before aerating?
Best aerating condition is a soft and moist ground. If you are unsure of the ground conditions, as in soil with high clay content, a simple test will determine whether it is necessary to water before aerating. Using a garden hand spade or a large screw driver, you should be able to drive the tool in the ground 2 to 3 inches with little effort. If you are unable to do so, then watering the lawn a day before aerating is necessary.
When should I use the removable weights?
Soil conditions will dictate whether extra machine weight is needed for effective coring action. The weights are provided to give you added control, and greater tine penetration.
- Inspect lawn to be aerated and remove rocks, wire, string and other objects that might present a hazard before starting.
- Identify and mark all ground objects to be avoided, such as sprinkler heads, stakes, water valves, clothes line anchors, etc.
- Use machine for lawn aeration only.
- Keep unsupervised children away from the equipment.
- Adopt safe lifting and moving techniques when loading/unloading and moving the equipment.
- Do not run engine while servicing Do not use on any surface other than grass.
- Do not operate on slopes exceeding 25% grade Do not place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts.
- Do not run engine in an unventilated space.
- Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks near unit, and always stop the engine when refueling Do not remove guards when operating.
- Do not modify this equipment Do not use this equipment for purposes other than lawn aeration.
AERATING
- Start engine and adjust throttle setting to provide a comfortable walking speed and maintain control of the equipment at all times.
- Adjust depth control knob to desired depth. Coring depth decreases by turning the knob clockwise.
- Push down the rear wheel control handle to lower aerating tines into the ground (rear wheels will rise).
- Engage clutch control.
- To stop, release clutch control.
CAUTION: NEVER CROSS HARD OBJECTS OR SURFACES (SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS, STEPPING STONES, ETC.) WITH TINES DOWN.
TURNING AND MANEUVERING THE AERATOR
Gradual maneuvering while aerating can be accomplished by simply guiding the machine. We recommend that you adjust your engine's speed control to allow for a comfortable walking speed. This will also help you maintain complete control whale working in tight spaces. When reversing direction or making sharp turns two methods of turning can be used. Select the safest and most comfortable method for the conditions you face.
(A) Release clutch control handle,pull up rear wheel control handle, then pivot machine on rear wheels to turn.
(B) Release clutch control handle, lift handle bar and pivot machine on front wheel.
WARNING: DO NOT USE THIS MACHINE ON HILLS, ESPECIALLY WHEN PIVOTING ON FRONT WHEEL.