Cutting Tips
All grasses, such as blue grass, bent grass, Bermuda grass, fescue grass
and zoysia grass need dethatching. The dethatcher is a special purpose
machine that is used periodically for thatch removal. It should not be
used instead of a lawn mower. Deep thatching should only be done in
spring and fall when grass is growing vigorously. Blades are set just
above ground level to remove thatch. Light thatching can be done any
time. Blades are set about half-way between the mowing height of cut
and ground level. Spacing between blades is 1-3/8” on BLT-14 & 15
models, good for all grasses on lawns. The only time to use closer spacing
is for light thatching of bent grass lawns. Blades can then be set 5/8”
apart, as with the BGT-27 model. Thatch no more than three times over,
each time in a different direction. Thatching at 30 degree angles is a good
procedure. Adjust the unit so that the thatch is removed a little at the
time. The dethatcher can also be used as a renovation tool. To do this,
set the blades to ground level and thatch in different directions, fertilize,
seed and water.
Adjustments
Adjustment Rod (BGT-27)
Never make any adjustments or repairs
while the engine is running. Making sure
that the ignition switch is in the “OFF”
position.
Depth control for the unit is provided by
loosening the wing nut located on the
right hand side (**both sides for BGT-27
model) of the main chassis and by
adjusting the threaded rod up or down.
CUTTING REEL ADJUSTMENT
-
First ensure engine is stopped, and then
set depth adjustment so that the blades are just ‘tickling’ the grass. The
depth adjustment threaded rod will lock with the wing nut in position until
changed by the operator. After the machine is running, increase engine
speed by advancing the throttle control lever, and move machine forward
for trial run. If sufficient grass and thatch is not being removed, make
further adjustments and set blades a little deeper. Repeat this process
until the desired amount of material is being removed.
DRIVE BELT ADJUSTMENT - Due to normal “wearing in”, the drive belt
may start to slip under load. To correct this, loosen engine mounting bolts
and slide engine toward rear of the unit. Re-tighten the engine mounting
bolts.
