Craftsman 486.24326 - Manual (Page 8)

8
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR PLUG AERATOR
Read this owner's manual and safety rules before operating your plug aerator.
Compare the illustration below with your aerator to familiarize yourself with the various controls and their locations.
LIFT HANDLE Raises the aerator to the transport position and lowers it to the operating position.
STOP BRACKETS Locks the lift handle in the transport position (upper bracket) or operating position (lower bracket).
BEFORE STARTING
• Mow the lawn and remove loose clippings prior to use
of the aerator.
• If the soil is extremely hard and dry, it is
recommended that it be sprinkled or watered down for
one or two hours prior to aerating.
LIFT HANDLE
STOP BRACKETS
HOW TO USE YOUR PLUG AERATOR
Aerating means pulling small soil plugs, ranging up
to three inches in length, from the soil to create small
reservoirs that will bring oxygen, fertilizer and water
down into the roots. For best aerator performance, the
following lawn preparations and operating procedures are
recommended.
CAUTION: Points of aerator knives are
sharp! Exercise caution at all times while
using the aerator.
CAUTION: Vehicle braking and stability
may be affected by the addition of an
accessory or attachment. Be aware of
changing conditions on slopes.
• Start tractor engine with controls in neutral and place
throttle at slow engine speed.
• Engage shift lever at lowest possible forward speed
and lower aerator, allowing plugger points to enter the
ground. Increase speed as conditions permit.
• Aerate in the straightest line possible, making
overlapping passes to increase the plugger point
pattern.
• Avoid extremely sharp turns with plugger points
engaged in ground to prevent damage to lawn.
• DO NOT cross over walks or drives without first
raising the aerator to the transport position.
• On sloped lawns, always aerate in an up and down
direction. DO NOT attempt to follow the contour of the
ground.