ProCore® SR54, SR54-S, SR70, SR70-S, or SR72 Aerator

1. Remove the aerator from the crating.

2. Remove the bolts securing the aerator storage stands to the shipping pallet and remove the aerator from the pallet.

3. Remove the storage stands from the aerator. Retain them for storage use.

   Note: The SR54-S and the SR70-S do not have shipping stands.

4. Place the aerator on a flat, level surface with the front roller on the ground and a block of wood positioned under the heads.

Parts needed for this procedure:

Hitch pin	2
Lynch pin	2

1. Back the tractor squarely up to the aerator until the lower link arms are aligned with the mounting brackets.

   Note: The aerator gearbox shaft should be in line with the tractor PTO shaft (centered on the tractor). If they are not in line, adjust the lower link arms, from side to side until the shafts are aligned.

2. Ensure that the PTO is disengaged.

3. Engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key. Wait for the engine and all moving parts to stop before leaving the operator's seat on the tractor.

   Note: For maximum ground clearance, the hitch pins should be secured in the aerator lower mounting bracket holes, when so equipped. To determine when to use the upper mounting holes, refer to Connecting the PTO Shaft.

   SR54 and SR54-S Aerators only

   Note: The hitch pins and lynch pins are shipped installed on the SR54 and SR54-S aerators.

4. Secure the lower link arms to the aerator mounting pins with lynch pins (Figure 3).

   

   Figure 3

   1. Aerator mounting pin
   2. Lower link
   3. Lynch pin

   SR70, SR70-S, and SR72 Aerators only

5. Secure the lower link arms to the aerator mounting brackets with hitch pins and lynch pins (Figure 4).

   

   Figure 4

   1. Hitch pin
   2. Aerator mounting bracket
   3. Lower link
   4. Lynch pin

Models SR54, SR70, and SR72

Parts needed for this procedure:

Hydraulic top link	1
Hydraulic hose (3-1/2 ft)	1
Hydraulic hose (2-1/2 ft)	1
Extension bracket	2
Rotational bracket	1
Hose quick couplings	2

Note: Make sure that the supplied couplings are correct for the tractor. If not, it will be necessary to contact the tractor manufacturer to obtain the correct couplings.

The tractor must be equipped with a double acting spool valve with an operator control lever and two 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) quick-release couplings at the rear of the tractor. The 2 quick couplings have been provided to fit to the hydraulic top link hoses (1/2-14 NPTF hose end thread size).

This section will be used to install the hoses and determine the need for the extension or rotation blocks. This information will help to determine the depth range of the aerator.

1. Secure the connecting link end of the hydraulic top link to the tractor with the pins supplied with the tractor (Figure 5). Position the hydraulic top link so the rod end is toward the aerator. The cylinder ports should be positioned toward the tractor's auxiliary power hydraulics.

   Note: If the hydraulic cylinder must be positioned with the ports facing upward, use the rotational block instead of the standard mounting block to reposition the cylinder (Figure 5). A 90 degree hydraulic fitting may be used instead of the rotational block (fittings are not supplied).

   Install the rotational block as follows:

   1. Remove the cotter pin and pin securing the standard connecting link to the cylinder (Figure 5). Remove the connecting link from the cylinder.

   2. Install the rotational block to the cylinder with the pins previously removed (Figure 5).

   

   Figure 5

   1. Aerator hitch pin
   2. Hydraulic top link
   3. Rotational block
   4. Connecting link
   5. 3 inch extension block
   6. 5 inch extension block
   7. Tractor link pin
   8. Clevis and lynch pin
   9. 2-1/2 foot hydraulic hose
   10. 3-1/2 foot hydraulic hose
   11. Hose quick couplings
   12. Tractor hydraulic ports

2. Connect the 106 cm (3-1/2 foot) long hydraulic hose to the hydraulic top link port which is closest to the aerator Figure 5. Apply pipe-thread sealing tape or compound to the hose threads to prevent any leaks.

3. Connect the 76 cm (2-1/2 foot) long hydraulic hose to the hydraulic top link port which is closest to the tractor (Figure 5). Apply pipe-thread sealing tape or compound to the hose threads to prevent any leaks.

4. Install quick couplings to the hydraulic hoses (1/2-14 NPTF hose end thread size). Apply pipe-thread sealing tape or compound to the hose threads to prevent any leaks.

5. Connect the 2 hydraulic hose quick couplings to the ports provided on the tractor.

6. Start the tractor engine and operate the tractor spool valve to check the extend and retract motion of the hydraulic top link.

   Note: Reverse the hose connections, at the tractor, if they do not agree with the tractor control operation.

7. Secure the rod end of hydraulic top link to the most forward hole possible in the aerator bracket with link pin and lynch pin (Figure 6 or Figure 7).

   Important: When securing the rod end of the hydraulic link, use the most forward mounting holes in the mounting bracket so that there is enough clearance for the barrel of the cylinder when retracted.

   

   Figure 6

   SR54 and SR70 mounting shown

   1. Rod end of cylinder
   2. Lynch pin
   3. Link pin
   4. Aerator bracket (forward holes)
   

   Figure 7

   SR72 mounting shown

   1. Lynch pin
   2. Aerator bracket
   3. Link pin
   4. Rod end of cylinder

   If the hydraulic cylinder does not reach the aerator mounting bracket, use an extension block instead of the standard mounting block to connect the cylinder to the tractor (Figure 5).

   Note: If an extension block is installed and the cylinder needs to be retracted to be installed, the aerator tine heads will get closer to the ground.

   Install the extension blocks as follows:

   1. Remove the cotter pin and pin securing the standard connecting link to the cylinder (Figure 5). Remove the connecting link from the cylinder.

   2. Install the required length extension block to the cylinder with the pins previously removed (Figure 5).

Models SR54, SR70, and SR72

Parts needed for this procedure:

Depth gauge	1
Slide block	1
Machine screw (#10 x 1/2 inch)	2
Screw (1/4 x 2-1/2 inch)	2
Tube clamp	1
Weld plate	1
Depth decal	1

1. Mount the depth gauge to the flat side of the slide block with 2 machine screws (#10 x 1/2 inch), positioning the components as shown in Figure 8.

   

   Figure 8

   1. Screw
   2. Depth gauge
   3. Machine screw (2)
   4. Slide block
   5. Depth decal
   6. Cylinder
   7. Weld plate
   8. Tube clamp

2. Using the tube clamp, weld plate and 2 screws (1/4 x 2-1/2 inches), loosely mount the depth gauge to the rod end of the top link cylinder (Figure 8). Make sure that the clamps are loose enough to allow them to be rotated to the desired position.

3. Make sure that the top of the cylinder is clean enough to except the installation of a decal.

4. Affix the depth decal to the top of the cylinder at a location that is visible from the operating position and does not interfere with hydraulic hoses or other obstructions (Figure 8). The end of the decal with the letter “J is to be positioned toward the aerator.

5. Check to make sure the cylinder rod can extend and retract fully without interfering with other tractor or aerator components. Then, tighten the depth gauge mounting screws when the desired location is attained.

6. The letters on the decal do not correspond to a particular depth. Run the aerator on a test plot to determine the desired setting and note the corresponding position on the depth indicator. You then can adjust the cylinder while in operation to a deeper setting “J or shallower setting “A as desired.

Parts needed for this procedure:

Spring-loaded top link	1
Link pin	3
Lynch pin	3

1. Mount the spring-loaded top link to the aerator bracket with 2 link pins and lynch pins (Figure 9)

2. Loosen the locknut on the tractor upper link. Adjust the upper link length until it aligns with the clevis on the spring-loaded top link of the aerator (Figure 9).

   

   Figure 9

   1. Spring-loaded top link
   2. Upper link
   3. Link pin
   4. Lynch pin
   5. Locknut

3. Connect the tractor upper link to the clevis on the spring-loaded top link and secure with a link pin and lynch pin (Figure 9).

4. Grease the threaded steel upper link tubes.

5. Measure the length of the spring in the top link.

6. Rotate the upper link until the spring is compressed by about 13 mm (1/2 inch) (Figure 9).

7. Tighten the locknut to secure the upper link into position.

• Extending the hydraulic cylinder increases the tine depth.

• Fully extend the hydraulic cylinder to determine the location of the tine heads and to verify if they contact the ground.

  Note: On undulating turf, the operator can adjust the cylinder to maintain tine depth (cresting a hill) but it will be necessary to have the tine heads set about 5 cm (2 inches) below ground.

• If the tine heads contact the ground, turf damage may occur.

  If the tine heads contact the ground, adjust the location of the cylinder ends to move the top of the aerator closer to the tractor.

• If the tine heads do not contact the ground, extension brackets (included with aerator) can be installed to the top link to move the tine heads closer to the ground.

Important: When connecting the PTO, be sure that the aerator is not being lifted higher than is necessary. Lifting the machine too high will cause the PTO shaft knuckles to break (Figure 10). Do not leave the PTO turning when the aerator is raised. You can operate the PTO up to an angle of 25°, but do not exceed a 35° angle when the aerator is at its highest position; otherwise, severe shaft damage may occur.

Important: Ensure that the tines are removed before performing this operation.

With the aerator positioned on the ground and lowered to the deepest location, check the angle between the PTO and the aerator.

Lift the aerator and fully retract the hydraulic top link cylinder. Using an angle indictor, check the angle between the PTO and the aerator. If this angle is greater than 35°, adjust the tractor so that the aerator cannot be lifted past 35°. Use the tractor lift stop (if so equipped) or move the lower links to a higher mounting hole (if so equipped).

Parts needed for this procedure:

PTO shaft

1

1. Park the tractor and aerator on a level surface.

2. Raise the aerator completely and fully retract the hydraulic top link cylinder or upper link (Figure 11).

   

   Figure 11

3. Measure the distance from the locking groove on the end of the tractor PTO shaft to the locking groove on the aerator gearbox PTO shaft (Figure 12). Record this distance. Example: 67 cm (26.5 inches).

   

   Figure 12

   1. Measure here
   2. Locking groove

4. Lower the aerator to the ground and fully extend the hydraulic top link cylinder or upper link (Figure 13).

   

   Figure 13

5. Measure the distance from the locking groove on the end of the tractor PTO shaft to the locking groove on the aerator gearbox PTO shaft (Figure 14). Record this distance. Example: 70 cm (27.5 inches).

   

   Figure 14

   1. Measure here
   2. Locking groove

6. On the PTO shaft, measure the distance from the center of locking pin ball on one end to the center of the locking pin on the other end (Figure 15). Record this distance. Example: 81 cm (32 inches).

   

   Figure 15

   1. Measure here

7. Using the smaller of the two measurements in Figure 14 and Figure 12, subtract that distance from the distance in Figure 15. Example: 81 cm (32 inches) minus 67 cm (26.5 inches) equals 14 cm (5.5 inches).

8. The example measurements show that the shaft is 14 cm (5.5 inches) too long. Add an extra 1.2 cm (1/2 inch) to be sure that the PTO shaft will not bottom out when the aerator is lifted to its highest position.

   Example: 14 cm (5.50 inches) plus 1.2 cm (1/2 inch) equals 15 cm (6.00 inches).

9. Slide the PTO shaft tubes together until they are fully collapsed. Verify that the inside tube does not protrude into the cross and bearing section of the outer tube (Figure 16). If this happens, more will have to be cut off the inside tube, to correct the problem. Proceed to next step.

10. Measure the distance the inside tube protrudes into the cross and bearing section of the outer tube (Figure 16). Add this distance to the dimension attained in step 8.

    

    Figure 16

    1. Cut off
    2. Inside tube

11. Separate the two halves of the PTO shaft (Figure 17).

12. Measure the distance from the end of each tube to its safety shield (Figure 17). Record the distances.

    

    Figure 17

13. Using the dimensions determined in step 8, locate, mark and cut off the shield and tube from each PTO half (Figure 18 and Figure 19).

    Note: More will have to be cut off the inside tube if it was protruding into the cross and bearing section of the outer tube.

    

    Figure 18

    

    Figure 19

14. Using the dimensions determined in step 11, locate, mark and cut off just the safety shields to expose the tubes (Figure 20 and Figure 21).

    

    Figure 20

    

    Figure 21

15. Carefully deburr the ends of the tubes with a file and remove all the filings from the tubes.

16. Grease the inside tube.

    Note: Telescoping tubes must always overlap by 1/2 of their length in normal operation and at least 1/3 of their length in all working conditions. During transport, when the drive line is not rotating, the telescoping tubes must have a suitable overlap to maintain the tubes alignment and allow them to slide freely.

Parts needed for this procedure:

PTO shield

1

1. Remove the 4 bolts, lock washers, and flat washers secured to the rear of the aerator gearbox (Figure 22).

   

   Figure 22

   1. PTO shield
   2. Flat washer
   3. Lock washer
   4. Bolt
   5. Access panel

2. Mount the PTO shield to the aerator gearbox with the fasteners previously removed (Figure 22). When mounting the PTO shield, ensure that the access panel (Figure 22) is positioned to the top or the side depending on the aerator frame configuration.

Parts needed for this procedure:

Pin (supplied with PTO shaft)	1
Nut (supplied with PTO shaft)	1

Note: You can open the access panel (Figure 22) to ease the removal and installation of the PTO shaft mounting fasteners.

1. Remove the pin and nut from the PTO shaft (Figure 23).

2. Connect the clutch end of the PTO shaft to the aerator gearbox input shaft with pin and nut previously removed (Figure 23). The pin can be inserted only one way.

   

   Figure 23

   1. Gearbox input shaft
   2. PTO shaft coupler
   3. Pin
   4. Nut

   Note: Close and latch the PTO shield access panel if opened.

   Note: Ensure that the pin is fully inserted into the yoke of the PTO.

3. Connect the PTO shaft to the tractor PTO shaft (Figure 24).

   

   Figure 24

   1. Tractor output shaft
   2. PTO shaft coupler
   3. PTO shaft

4. Slide the PTO shaft forward as far as the tractor allows.

5. Pull back the locking collar to secure the PTO shaft in place. Slide the PTO shaft back and forth to ensure that it is properly locked.

6. Connect the shield safety chains to the PTO shield and the tractor bracket (Figure 25). Ensure that the chains remain slack when the aerator is raised or lowered.

   

   Figure 25

   1. Safety chains

   Note: To avoid excess lift, connect the lift arms of the tractor into the top holes of the lift bracket, if so equipped (Figure 26). The maximum angle on the PTO shaft is 35°.

   

   Figure 26

   1. Top holes

   Important: When connecting the PTO, be sure that the aerator is not being lifted higher than is necessary. Lifting the machine too high will cause the PTO shaft knuckles to break (Figure 27). Never leave the PTO turning when the aerator is lifted. The PTO can be operated up to an angle of 25°, but can never exceed a 35° angle when the aerator is at its highest position.

7. Verify that the PTO shield does not interfere with the clutch.

   

   Figure 27

   1. Breakage will occur here.

The aerator is designed to be centered with the tractor PTO shaft center line. Adjust the sway links as required.

The PTO shaft should be as straight as possible to the tractor PTO shaft.

Adjust the sway links on the lower lift arms to minimize side-to-side sway to a maximum of 25 mm (1 inch) on each side (Figure 28).

Adjust the lower links inboard until they contact the aerator mounting plates. This reduces the stress on the pins. If the tractor has sway chains instead of sway links, install washers between the lower link arm and lynch pin to reduce the over hung load on the lift pins.

Note: Refer to the tractor operator's manual for additional installation and adjustment procedures.

Parts needed for this procedure:

Level (not supplied)

1

1. Park the tractor and aerator on a firm, level surface.

2. Place a level on top of the aerator frame to check for level side-to-side (Figure 29).

   

   Figure 29

   1. Level

3. Turn the adjustable link body (if provided) to raise or lower the link arm until the aerator is leveled side-to-side.

   Note: Refer to the tractor operator's manual for additional adjustment procedures.

Parts needed for this procedure:

Tines (as required)

–

A wide selection of tines are available for the aerator. Choose the tine type, size, and spacings required for the job. Refer to the Parts Catalog for the list of accessories.

1. Ensure that the aerator is fully supported on the stands or support blocks.

2. Turn off the tractor engine and remove the key.

3. Loosen the clamping bolts and remove the previously used tines (Figure 30).

   

   Figure 30

   1. Tine
   2. Clamping bolt

4. Slide the new tines into the holes sized to fit the tines selected. Never use small diameter tines in the large diameter holes; the tines should fit closely in the hole. Be sure to slide the tine up into the head until it bottoms out.

   Note: Hollow coring tines should be positioned with the ejection slot to the rear while the solid tines should have the tine tip angle facing the machine (Figure 30).

5. Tighten the clamping bolts firmly to secure the tines. Do not use impact tools.

6. Set the tine angle for the new tines. Refer to Adjusting the Tine Angle.

7. Before aerating formal turf for the first time after installing tines, test the aerator on a less important area so that you can try alternative tractor gears and fine tune the adjustment to achieve the hole spacing and turf appearance desired.

You can change the tine depth by raising or lowering the rear roller. The roller height is adjusted by moving the roller adjusting bolts to the desired position.

Note: The aerator is shipped in Position A.

• Position A - Maximum depth

• Position B - Depth is decreased 38 mm (1-1/2 inches) from Position A

• Position C - Depth is decreased 76 mm (3 inches) from Position A

Parts needed for this procedure:

Rear guard	1
Screw (3/8 x 3-1/4 inch)	4
Flat washer (0.438 x 1 inch)	12
Locknut	4
End cap	2

1. Insert the end caps into the ends of the rear guard tubes (Figure 32).

   

   Figure 32

   1. Rear guard
   2. End cap
   3. Upper mounting hole
   4. Lower mounting hole

2. Align the holes in the rear guard mounting tubes with the holes in the aerator side plates (Figure 32).

   Note: On SR54-S and SR70-S models, mount the ends of the tubes to the lower side plate mounting holes if the aerator tine depth is set in Position A (Figure 33). Use the upper mounting holes for depth setting Positions B or C.

   

   Figure 33

3. Secure the guard mounting tubes to the side plates with 4 screws, flat washers and nuts (Figure 32).

   Note: Use the remaining washers, as required, to fill any gap between the tubes and the aerator side plates.

CE Only

Parts needed for this procedure:

Lock plate	2
Tap bolt	2
Retaining ring	2

1. Position the latch plate over the hood latch while aligning the mounting hole with the hole in the side plate (Figure 36).

   

   Figure 36

   1. Retaining ring
   2. Mounting hole
   3. Latch plate
   4. Tap bolt

2. Secure the latch plate to the side plate with a tap bolt and a retaining ring (Figure 36).

3. Repeat the procedure on the other hood latch.

CE Only

Parts needed for this procedure:

CE decal	1
Production year decal	1

After all the necessary CE requirements are met, apply the CE decal and the production year decal next to the serial plate (Figure 37).

A selection of Toro approved attachments and accessories is available for use with the machine to enhance and expand its capabilities. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer or Distributor or go to www.Toro.com for a list of all approved attachments and accessories.

To best protect your investment and maintain optimal performance of your Toro equipment, count on Toro genuine parts. When it comes to reliability, Toro delivers replacement parts designed to the exact engineering specification of our equipment. For peace of mind, insist on Toro genuine parts.

Refer to the OutCross traction unit Operator’s Manual for information on controls and operation, as well as additional information on setting up the aerator.

Become familiar with operating the following tractor controls before you operate the aerator:

• PTO engagement

• Engine/PTO speed

• 3-point hitch (raise/lower)

• Auxiliary valve operation

• Clutch

• Throttle

• Gear selection

• Parking brake

  Important: Refer to the tractor operator's manual for operating instructions.

The 3-point hitch linkage/hydraulic top link on the tractor lifts the aerator for transport and lowers it for operation.

The power takeoff (PTO) power is transmitted via shafts, gearbox, and O-ring drive chains to a crankshaft, which drives the tine holding arms into the turf surface.

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 penetration is determined by extending the hydraulic top link or setting the fixed top link to the desired position.

The distance between the holes created is determined by the gear ratio (or hydrostatic traction pedal position) of the tractor and the number of tines in each tine head. Changing the engine speed does not change the hole spacing.

The aerator is designed to operate with a PTO speed of up to 460 rpm depending on the size/weight of the tines. Most tractors indicate a 540 PTO rpm position on the rev counters. Since the engine and PTO speeds are directly proportional, you can determine the engine speed required for a 400 rpm PTO by calculating as follows:

(Engine rpm at 540 PTO speed) x (400540) = required engine rpm

For example, if the engine rpm were 2,700 for a PTO speed of 540 rpm, you would get the following:

2,700 x (400540) = 2,000 rpm

In this example, running your tractor at 2,000 rpm now provides you with a 400 rpm PTO speed.

If your tractor indicates some other engine rpm at 540 PTO rpm, substitute that number for the 2,700 that was used above.

Note: The recommended PTO speed for 10-inch tines and shorter is 460 rpm and 425 rpm for tines longer than 10 inches.

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 increases 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.

Locate and mark all electrical or communication lines, irrigation components, and any other underground hazards.

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, spring wires, springs and tools in case tines are damaged due to contact with foreign materials.

Important: Do not operate the aerator in reverse or when it is in the raised position.

Important: If the machine has been stored for an extended period, ensure that the PTO slip is operational. Refer to Adjusting the PTO Clutch.

1. Lower the aerator so that the tines are nearly to the ground at the lowest part of their stroke.

2. At a low tractor engine speed, engage the power takeoff (PTO) clutch to start the aerator working.

3. Select a gear that gives a forward speed of approximately 1 to 4 km/h ( 0.8 to 2.5 mph) at the rated PTO speed of 400 to 460 rpm (refer to the tractor operator's manual).

4. As the clutch is released and the tractor moves forward, lower the aerator fully onto the roller(s) and increase engine speed to give a maximum of 400 to 460 rpm (460 on model SR72) at the PTO.

   Important: Never operate the tractor PTO in excess of 460 rpm or damage to the aerator could occur.

   Important: Make sure that the roller is on the ground at all times when the aerator is operating.

5. Note the hole pattern. If you require greater hole spacing, increase forward the speed of the tractor by shifting up a gear or with a hydrostatic drive tractor, actuate the hydrostat lever or pedal to give faster speed. For closer hole spacing, decrease tractor forward speed. Changing engine speed while in the same gear will not change the hole pattern.

   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 and quickly disengage the PTO.

8. If you back into a tight area (like a tee box), disengage the PTO and raise the aerator to its highest position. Never attempt to aerate in reverse.

9. Always clear the area of all damaged machine parts, such as broken tines, etc., to prevent anything from being picked up by mowers or other turf maintenance equipment and thrown.

10. Replace broken tines, inspect and correct damage to those still usable. Repair any other machine damage before continuing operation.

Subsoil cultivation, fracturing or heave is created by a spading motion of the tine in the soil as the aerator and tractor move forward. Quality of finish on the playing surface after aerating will depend on various factors including turf condition, root growth and moisture content.

If the ground is too firm to obtain the desired aeration depth, the coring head can get into a bouncing rhythm. This is due to the hard pan that the tines are attempting to penetrate. This condition can be corrected by attempting one or more of the following:

• Best results are obtained after a rain or when turf has been watered the previous day.

• Reduce the number of tines per stomper arm. Attempt to maintain a symmetrical tine configuration to evenly load the stomper arms.

• Reduce aerator penetration (depth setting) if ground is hard packed. Clean up cores, water turf, and aerate again at a deeper penetration.

Aeration of soil types built on top of hard sub soils (i.e. sand/soil cap placed over rocky ground) can cause undesired hole quality. This is caused when the aeration depth is greater than the soil cap and the sub soil is too hard to penetrate. When the tines contact this sub soil the aerator may lift and cause the top of the holes to become elongated. Reduce the aeration depth sufficiently to avoid penetration into the hard sub soil.

25 cm (10 inches) or More

Using longer/larger tines can leave the front or rear of the hole tufted or slightly deformed. Hole quality for this configuration generally improves if the coring head speed is reduced 10 to 15% from full operating speed. For PTO powered aerators reduce the engine speed until the PTO speed is around 400 to 420 rpm. The forward spacing is not affected by reducing the engine speed. The pushed hole can also be affected by the position of the camber bracket. Refer to Adjusting the Tine Angle.

When using multi-row adapter heads, reduce the engine speed until the PTO speed is around 400 to 420 rpm. The forward spacing is not affected by reducing the engine speed.

Using multi-tine heads in conjunction with larger coring tines or large diameter solid tines can induce significant stress on the root zone of the turf. This stress can fracture the root zone and cause a lifting action to the turf. If this damage occurs try one or more of the following:

• Reduce tine density (remove some of the tines)

• Decrease coring depth (suggested in 1/2 inch increments)

• Increase forward hole spacing (change tractor transmission up one gear)

• Decrease the tine diameter (solid or coring)

You can adjust the head return springs to increase or decrease the tension. Moving the spring toward the front of the aerator increases the spring tension, thus increasing the distance between the spring mounting posts.

1. Disengage the PTO and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Release the spring tension to the linkage arm.

4. Remove the nut securing the spring mounting post bolt to the linkage arm (Figure 42 or Figure 43).

   

   Figure 42

   SR72

   1. Spring mounting post
   2. Bolt
   3. Spring
   

   Figure 43

   SR54, SR54-S, SR70 and SR70-S

   1. Spring mounting post
   2. Bolt
   3. Spring

5. Remove the mounting post bolt and the mounting post from the linkage arm and reinsert them into the another adjustment hole (Figure 42 or Figure 43).

6. Install the nut securing the spring mounting post bolt to the linkage arm.

7. Reconnect the spring tension to the linkage arm.

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 24 km/h (15 mph).

After daily use, thoroughly wash the machine with a garden hose without a nozzle to avoid contamination and seal and bearing damage due to excessive water pressure. You can use a brush to remove accumulated material. Use mild detergent to clean the covers. After cleaning, grease all drive lines and roller bearings, inspect for machine damage, oil leakage, and component and tine wear. Do not oil the O-ring drive chain.

Remove, clean, and oil the tines. Spray a light oil mist on the coring head bearings (crank and damper links).

Clean and coat the springs with a dry lubricant like graphite or silicone.

• Carry replacement tines, spring wires, springs and tools in case tines are damaged due to contact with foreign materials.

• Engage the PTO at low engine speed. Increase the engine speed to achieve the desired PTO speed of 400 to 460 rpm (maximum) and lower the aerator. Operate at an engine speed at which the aerator runs most smoothly.

  Note: Changing the engine/PTO speed in a particular tractor gear (or fixed hydrostatic pedal position on tractors with hydrostatic transmission) does not change the hole spacing.

• Make very gradual turns when aerating. Never make sharp turns with PTO drive engaged. Plan your aeration path before lowering the aerator. Making sharp turns while aerating will damage the aerator and the tines.

• If the tractor bogs down when operating on hard ground or going uphill, raise the aerator slightly until speed is regained, then lower the aerator again.

• Best results are achieved when the tine entry is on a slight incline toward the rear of the machine. Use caution when extending the hydraulic top link to keep from hammering the turf with the tine heads. In some cases, you may not achieve the best results from using the preset holes in the camber brackets, especially where the grass roots are short or weak. You may want to experiment using another camber setting that will set the tines on more of an incline to keep from pulling soil out of the hole.

• Do not aerate if the ground is too hard or dry. Best results are obtained after a rain or when the turf has been watered the previous day.

  Note: If the roller rides up off the ground while aerating, the ground is too hard to achieve the desired depth; reduce the aeration depth until the roller contacts the ground during operation.

• Raise the aerator penetration if the ground is hard packed. Clean up the cores and aerate again at a deeper penetration, preferably after watering.

  Caution

  Improperly using or maintaining this machine can result in injury.

  To avoid personal injury, never leave the tractor seat without first disengaging the PTO drive, engaging the parking brake, and shutting off the engine. Do not perform aerator adjustments or repairs without first lowering the aerator onto the safety stand. Ensure that all safety devices are secured in their proper place before resuming operation.

• Look behind frequently to ensure the machine is operating properly and alignment is maintained with previous passes. A loss of one line of holes indicates a bent or lost tine. Inspect after each pass.

• Always clear the area of all damaged machine parts, such as broken tines, etc., to prevent them from being picked up and thrown by mowers or other turf maintenance equipment.

• Replace broken tines, inspect and correct damage to those still usable. Repair any other machine damage before resuming operation.

Maintenance Service Interval	Maintenance Procedure
After the first 50 operating hours	Change the gearbox oil.
Before each use or daily	Inspect the chain tension Check the springs Clean and lubricate springs and tine mounting screws. Inspect the PTO for signs of wear.
Every 50 hours	Grease the bearings and PTO shaft Check the gearbox oil. Inspect the chain tension Inspect bearings.
Every 500 hours	Change the gearbox oil. Inspect bearings and replace as needed.
Before storage	Oil the tine holder fasteners. Perform all 50-hour maintenance procedures. Paint any chipped surfaces. Loosen the PTO clutch bolts. Remove and clean tines. Remove all debris.
Yearly	Adjust the PTO clutchBefore and after storage

Note: You can use a hoist to lift the aerator. Use the coring head eyelet as a hoist attachment point (Figure 44). Ensure that the hoist has enough lift capacity. Refer to Specifications.

The main working bearings of the aerator are sealed and require no maintenance or lubrication. This reduces the maintenance required and eliminates the risk of grease or oil being dropped onto the turf.

There are grease fittings that must be lubricated with an SAE multipurpose, high-temperature grease with high-pressure (EP) performance or SAE multipurpose lithium grease.

The lubrication points are as follows:

PTO shaft (3) (Figure 45)

Roller bearings (2 or 4, depending on model) (Figure 46)

O-ring chain — Do not lubricate the chain.

Important: Bearings rarely fail from defects in materials or workmanship. The most common reason for failure is moisture and contamination working its way past the protective seals. Bearings that are greased rely upon regular maintenance to purge harmful debris from the bearing area. Sealed bearings rely on an initial fill of special grease and a robust integral seal to keep contaminants and moisture out of the rolling elements.

The sealed bearings require no lubrication or short term maintenance. This minimizes routine service required and reduces the potential of turf damage due to grease contamination. These sealed bearing packages will provide good performance and life under normal use, but periodic inspections of bearing condition and seal integrity should be conducted to avoid downtime. Inspect these bearings seasonally and replace them if they are damaged or worn. Bearings should operate smoothly with no detrimental characteristics such as high heat, noise, looseness or rust weeping.

Due to the operating conditions that these bearing/seal packages are subject to (i.e., sand, turf chemicals, water, impacts, etc.) they are considered normal wear items. Bearings that fail due to other than defects in materials or workmanship are typically not covered under warranty.

Note: Bearing life can be negatively affected by improper wash down procedures. Do not use high-pressure or high volume spray directly at the bearings.It is common for new bearings to purge some grease out the seals on a new unit. This purged grease turns black in color due to collection of debris and not due to excessive heat. Wipe this excess grease from the seals after the initial 8 hours. There may always appear to be a wet area around the seal lip. This is not detrimental to bearing life, but keeps the seal lip lubricated.

The gearbox is filled with 80W–90 gear oil or equivalent. Allow the gearbox to cool before checking the oil level.

1. Clean debris from the fill plug and check plug to avoid contamination.

2. Remove the check plug from the gearbox (Figure 47).

   Note: If the gearbox has 2 check plugs, use the lower plug.

   

   Figure 47

   1. Vent/Fill plug
   2. Check plug
   3. Drain plug

3. Ensure that oil is up to the bottom of the check plug hole in the gearbox (Figure 47).

4. If the oil level is low, remove the vent/fill plug from top of the gearbox and replenish the oil as required.

5. Install the plugs.

The gearbox is filled with 80W-90 gear oil or equivalent.

1. Clean debris from vent/fill plug and drain plug to avoid contamination (Figure 47).

2. Remove the vent/fill plug to relieve air draw.

3. Position a drain pan under the drain plug and remove the plug.

   Note: The high viscosity of cool oil will extend the drain time (approximately 30 minutes).

4. After the oil is completely drained, reinstall the drain plug.

5. Fill the gearbox with high quality 80W-90 gear oil. Use the following chart to determine the gearbox oil capacity.

   Model	Gear Case Capacity
   SR54	1.9 L (2 US qt)
   SR54-S	1.9 L (2 US qt)
   SR70	1.9 L (2 US qt)
   SR70-S	1.9 L (2 US qt)
   SR72	3.8 L (4 US qt)

6. Install the vent/fill plug.

7. Check the oil level and replenish as required.

Check the drive chain for damage and correct adjustment. The chain should have approximately 13 mm (1/2 inch) of overall deflection (6 mm [1/4 inch] in each direction).

Chain tension can be adjusted by slightly loosening the main jam nut and tightening the jam rod to desired position (Figure 48 or Figure 49). Do not adjust the chain tension when the chain is hot or warm.

Important: Do not overtighten the chains; excess tightening of chains can cause gearbox/sprocket damage.

1. At the end of the season, back off each of the clutch nuts 2 turns (Figure 50).

   

   Figure 50

   1. Clutch nut
   2. Clutch

2. At the start of the new season, start the PTO and allow the clutch to slip for a few seconds before stopping the PTO. Turn back the nuts an additional 2 turns.

   Note: Do not allow the clutch to slip for an extended amount of time.

3. If the clutch continues to slip after turning back the nuts, tighten each nut an additional 1/4 turn until the slipping ceases. Do not overtighten the nuts, as shaft damage may occur.

	Models SR54, SR54-S, SR70, and SR70-S	SR72
Crank shaft nut	1288 N∙m (950 ft-lb)	1627 N∙m (1200 ft-lb)
Crank pin nut	1288 N∙m (950 ft-lb)	1288 N∙m (950 ft-lb)
Hinge bolt	359 N∙m (265 ft-lb)	407 N∙m (300 ft-lb)

Check the springs for crossed or broken wires (Figure 52). Crossed or broken spring wires will cause an erratic hole pattern in the turf.

Note: Replacement wires are included with the aerator. The wires are considered a consumable item.

The forward hole spacing is determined by the tractor gear ratio (or the hydrostatic traction pedal). Changing the engine speed does not change the forward hole spacing.

The lateral hole spacing is determined by the number of tines in the tine heads.

1. Stop the aerator on a level surface, not on a slope.

2. Disengage the PTO and engage the parking brake.

3. Raise the aerator roller(s) 7.5 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inches) off the ground. Place support blocks under the roller(s).

4. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

5. Before leaving the operator's seat on the tractor, shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop.

6. Remove the tines.

7. Install the storage stand.

8. Slowly lower the aerator until the storage stands contact the ground.

9. Remove the pin securing the top link to the aerator bracket. Retain the pin with the aerator.

   Also, on models with a hydraulic top link, disconnect the hydraulic hoses and the connecting link from the tractor. Cap the hydraulic hoses. Store these components with the aerator.

10. Disconnect the safety shield chains from PTO shaft.

11. Pull back on the lock collar to disconnect the power shaft from the tractor PTO shaft.

12. Slide the PTO shaft back and remove it from the tractor.

13. Connect the PTO safety chain to the aerator to prevent the PTO shaft from contacting the ground.

14. Remove the pins securing the lower link arms to the aerator brackets. Retain the pins with the aerator.

Problem	Solution
Springs are breaking or not pulling back the head to normal position.	Slow the PTO speed of the tractor. The longer and heavier the tines, the greater the centrifugal force on the head. Check for crossed or broken spring wires.
Holes are elongated or picking.	Adjust the angle of the tine or change the tractor ground speed. Make sure that the aerator can be lowered at least 5 cm (2 inches) below flat ground level to allow for undulation.
Tines are hitting the ground with an erratic pattern.	Check for crossed or broken spring wires. Slow the PTO speed of the tractor.
PTO clutch slips excessively.	Adjust the tines to a shallower depth. Review the clutch adjustment procedure. Replace PTO clutches.
Turf is pulling up with coring tines.	Shallow-rooted turf may require solid tines the first time.
The soil is too hard for full penetration.	Aerate at a depth that the machine can achieve, water overnight, and then increase the depth. Repeat if necessary until soil can be aerated at the desired depth.
Coring tines are breaking.	You are trying to get too much depth for the soil condition. See above and aerate to a shallower depth.
The tines do not stay in the head.	Tighten the tine holder bolts; do not use jam nuts or an impact wrench. If the bolt does not hold the tine, replace it.
Tines pull the soil up when the machine is raised.	Raise the machine part of the way out of the soil before disengaging the PTO.
The machine does not turn.	Ensure that the PTO, driveshaft, and drive chains are working properly.
The tractor has difficulty lifting the aerator.	Move the tractor lift arms 7.5 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) closer to the aerator. Ensure that the tractor has the capacity to lift the aerator.
The hydraulic top link cylinder is spongy. (It “gives and moves in and out a short span when force is applied.	Air is in the cylinder or lines and must be bled out.
The machine is noisy or knocking.	The crank pin nut has vibrated loose. The chains are too loose.The bolts on the bottom of the frame at the rear of the main arm have vibrated loose.Check the oil level in the gearbox.
The hydraulic top link cylinder can not be fully retracted (PTO shaft jams).	The PTO shaft is too long for your tractor and should be cut to the correct length.
The tractor is difficult to steer when in transport.	Add weight to the front of the tractor.Check the tire pressure and adjust it as required.
The camber bracket is damaged.	Do not store the aerator on the ground with tines installed.Do not run the coring head at high speed for an extended time when the tines are out of the ground.