Craftsman 486.243361 - Manual (Page 6)

6
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.
Service Dates
Check for loose fasteners X
Check for worn or damaged parts X X
Cleaning X X
Lubricate Spike Disk Hubs X
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Fill in dates as you
complete regular service.
Bef
ore each use
After each use Ev
ery season
Bef
ore stor
age
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and follow the maintenance schedule and the maintenance procedures listed in this section.
• 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.
MAINTENANCE/STORAGE
FIGURE 9
STRAP
CONCRETE BLOCK
HITCH MOUNT ARMS
HITCH ARM
MOUNT BRACKET