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As the tractor travels forward with the PTO engaged and
the machine lowered, a series of holes are created in the
turf surface.
The depth of the tine’s penetration is determined by the
mounted angle of the aerator and the height of the depth
control roller.
The distance between the holes created is determined by
the tractor’s gear ratio (or hydrostatic traction pedal
position) and the number of tines in each tine head.
Simply changing engine rpm does not change hole
spacing.
Training Period
Before using the aerator, find a clear area and practice
using the machine. Operate the tractor at recommended
gear settings and PTO drive speeds and become
thoroughly familiar with machine handling. Practice
stopping and starting, raising and lowering the aerator,
disengaging the PTO drive and aligning the machine with
previous passes. A practice session assures confidence in
the performance of the Aerator and helps ensure use of
proper operating techniques wherever the machine is
operated.
If there are sprinkler heads, electrical or communication
lines or other obstructions in the area to be aerated, mark
these items to ensure they are not damaged during
operation.
To avoid personal injury, never leave the tractor
seat without first setting the parking brake and
disengaging the PTO drive. Never perform
aerator repairs without first lowering the aerator
onto the castor/safety stand. Be sure all safety
devices are secured in proper place before
resuming operation.
Caution
Before Aerating
Inspect the area of operation for hazards that could
damage the machine and remove them, if possible, or plan
how to avoid them. Carry replacement tines and tools to
effect repairs should tines contact foreign materials.
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 work 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).
