Billy Goat AERATOR PL1800 User manual

Part No 100381 Form No F010515A
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PL1800/PL1800H Owner’s Manual
AERATOR Owner's Manual
PL1800 and PL1800H
U.S. PATENT #6892821
Replacement Parts
TINE REPLACEMENT
Replacement tip for aerating tines.
P/N 381057
TINE BUSHING REPLACEMENTS
Replacement bushings for the tines
P/N 380213

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PL1800/1800H Owner’s Manual
CONTENTS
SPECIFICATIONS _____________________ ___ 3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS______________ ___ 4-6
INSTRUCTION LABELS _____7
PACKING CHECKLIST & ASSEMBLY 8
OPERATION _9
MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLE SHOOTING _ 10
WARRANTY INFORMATION______________________________________________11
ILLUSTRATED PARTS & PARTS LIST 12-13

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PL1800/PL1800H Owner’s Manual
Specifications
PL1800 PL1800H
Engine: cc
205cc
118cc
Engine:
B&S 5.5hp Intek
w/Gearbox
HONDA GX120 W.
gearbox
Engine: Fuel Capacity
3.0 qt. (2.84 L)
2.1 qt. (2 L)
Engine: Oil Capacity
0.66 qt. (0.62 L)
0.59 qt. (0.56 L)
Total Unit Weight:
240# (109 Kg)
240# (109 Kg)
Length
57” (1.45m)
57” (1.45m)
Width
24”(.61m)
24”(.61m)
Height
40” (1m)
40” (1m)
Max. operating slope
15o
15o
Sound test in accordance
with 2000/14/EC
102.56
102.56
Sound at operators ear
82.56
82.56
Vibration at operator
position
.6g (6.28m/s2)
.6g (6.28m/s2)
SOUND
SOUND LEVEL 82 dB(a) at Operators Position
Sound tests were conducted in accordance with 2000/14/EC, and were performed on 9/26/14 under the conditions
listed below.
Sound power level listed is the highest value for any model covered in this manual. Please refer to serial plate on
the unit for the sound power level for your model.
General Conditions: Sunny
Temperature: 66oF (18.9oC)
Wind Speed: 8 mph (12.8 kph)
Wind Direction: South
Humidity: 78%
Barometric Pressure: 30 Hg (101.59 kpa)
VIBRATION DATA
VIBRATION LEVEL .6g (6.28 m/s2)
Vibration levels at the operator’s handles were measured in the vertical, lateral and longitudinal directions using
calibrated vibration test equipment. Tests were performed on 9/26/14 under the conditions listed below.
General Conditions: Sunny
Temperature: 66oF (18.9oC)
Wind Speed: 8 mph (14.5 kph)
Wind Direction: South
Humidity: 78%
Barometric Pressure: 30Hg (101.6 kpa)
102

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PL1800/1800H Owner’s Manual
GENERAL SAFETY SYMBOLS
The safety symbols shown below are used throughout this manual. You should become familiar with them before assembling,
operating, or servicing this equipment.
This symbol indicates important information that will prevent injury to yourself or others.
This symbol indicates ear protection is recommended when operating this equipment.
This symbol indicates eye protection is recommended when operating this equipment.
This symbol indicates gloves should be worn when servicing this equipment.
This symbol indicates that this manual and the engine manufacturer’s manual should be read carefully
before assembling, operation, or servicing this equipment.
This symbol indicates important information that will prevent damage to your BILLY GOAT ®
Machine.
This symbol indicates the engine oil level should be checked before operating this equipment.
Read and make sure you thoroughly understand the following safety precautions before assembling, operating or servicing this
equipment:
READ this manual and the engine manufacturer’s manual carefully before assembling, operating, or
servicing this equipment.
EAR PROTECTION is recommended when operating this equipment.
EYE PROTECTION is recommended when operating this equipment.
BREATHING PROTECTION is recommended when operating this equipment.
EXHAUST from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
DO NOT operate this equipment on any unimproved forested, brushy, or grass covered land unless a
spark arrester is installed on the muffler as required by Section 4442 of the California Public Resources
Code. The arrester must be maintained in good working order. Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands.
DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
possibly fatal poison.

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PL1800/PL1800H Owner’s Manual
SAFETY INSTRUCTION
DO NOT run this equipment indoors or in any poorly ventilated area. Refueling outdoors is recommended.
DO NOT refuel this equipment while the engine is running. Allow engine to cool for at least two minutes before
refueling.
DO NOT store gasoline near an open flame.
DO NOT remove gas cap while engine is running.
DO NOT start or operate engine if strong odor of gasoline is present.
DO NOT start or operate engine if gasoline is spilled. Move equipment away from spill until gasoline has
completely evaporated.
DO NOT smoke while filling the fuel tank.
DO NOT check for spark with spark plug or spark plug wire removed. Use an approved spark tester.
DO NOT operate engine without a muffler. Inspect muffler periodically and replace if necessary. If equipped with
muffler deflector, inspect deflector periodically and replace if necessary.
DO NOT operate engine with grass, leaves or other combustible material near the muffler.
DO NOT touch muffler, cylinder, or cooling fins when hot. Contact with hot surfaces may cause severe burns.
DO NOT leave equipment unattended while in operation.
DO NOT park equipment on a steep grade or slope.
DO NOT operate equipment with bystanders in or near the work area.
DO NOT allow children to operate this equipment.
DO NOT operate equipment with guards removed.
DO NOT operate equipment near or pick up hot or burning debris or any toxic or explosive materials.
DO NOT operate equipment on slopes greater than specified in Specifications section of this manual.
DO NOT place hands or feet underneath unit, or near any moving parts
DO NOT pull the machine backwards unless absolutely necessary.
DO NOT operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
DO NOT use on wet grass. Always be sure of your footing, hold the handle firmly, and walk; never run.
DO NOT use near drop offs, ditches, or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance.
DO NOT change the governor setting or overspeed the machine.
DO NOT start engine with reel in the ground or the drive engaged.
ALWAYS stop and raise the tines when crossing gravel drive, walks, or roads.
ALWAYS operate only in daylight or good artificial light
ALWAYS wear substantial footwear and wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
ALWAYS remove spark plug wire when servicing equipment to prevent accidental starting.

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PL1800/1800H Owner’s Manual
SAFETY WARNINGS CONTINUED
ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from moving or rotating parts.
ALWAYS check fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.
ALWAYS store fuel in approved safety containers.
Warning Important
DO identify and mark all fixed objects to be avoided during work, such as sprinkler heads, water valves, buried
cables, or clothes line anchors, etc.
DO remove all rocks, wire, string, plastic, etc. that can present a hazard during work prior to starting.
INTENDED USE
AERATOR
This machine is designed for aerating established lawns and large grass covered areas. The machine should not be used for any
other purpose than that stated above.
DO NOT OPERATE IF EXCESSIVE VIBRATION OCCURS! If excessive vibration occurs, shut
engine off immediately and check for damaged or worn reel, loose reel bearing, loose engine or lodged debris. To
remove debris from the machine, see the machine specific trouble shooting section. Note: See parts list for proper
bolt torque specifications.
HANDLING & TRANSPORTING
Always use two or more people to lift these machines. Lift holding on either side of the machine, using the handles and the
frame. Secure in place during transportation. See specifications for unit weight.
For safety use gloves when lifting.
Never lift any machine while the engine is running.

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PL1800/PL1800H Owner’s Manual
INSTRUCTION LABELS
The labels shown below were installed on your BILLY GOAT ®Aerator. If any labels are damaged or missing, replace them before operating this
equipment. Part numbers from the Illustrated Parts List are provided for convenience in ordering replacement labels. The correct position for
each label may be determined by referring to the part numbers shown.
LABEL PL INSTRUCTIONS LABEL PINCH POINT LABEL PULL TO ENGAGE
P/N 100354 P/N 100355 P/N 100356
LABEL WARNING GUARD LABEL DANGER LABEL FORWARD TO LOWER TINES
P/N 900327 P/N 400424 P/N 100357
ENGINE LABELS
THROTTLE CONTROLS
HONDA
Honda
Fuel valve
Throttle
Choke
Briggs
Set lever to choke when starting cold
Set lever to desired engine speed.
Move lever completely to the left to
stop engine

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PL1800/1800H Owner’s Manual
PACKING CHECKLIST
Your Billy Goat is shipped from the factory in one carton, completely assembled.
PUT OIL IN ENGINE BEFORE STARTING
ASSEMBLY
READ all safety instructions before assembling unit.
TAKE CAUTION when removing the unit from the box.
1. ATTACH the tine lift cable (item 17) to the Tine lever (item 38) in the center of the handle by inserting the pin (item
65) into it. Then attach the bail cable (item 30) to the bail (item 42). Check to make sure the cables are functioning
properly before operation and not binding.
2. CHECK engine oil level and fill to proper level. Also check oil in gear reduction reservoir and fill if necessary. See
engine owner’s manual for type and amount of oil to use.
3. CONNECT spark plug wire. Set the engine stop switch located on upper handle, to the ON position.
Boxing Parts
Checklist
Owner’s Manual
100381
Engine Manual Per
Model
Honda
Briggs
PARTS BAG &
LITERATURE ASSY
Warranty card P/N- 400972, Owner’s Manual P/N-100381, Declaration of Conformity P/N-381501
FOLDING HANDLE
This unit is equipped with a folding upper handle for easier storage.
1. Slide handle lock loops (item 24) up on both sides.
2. Fold the upper handle (item 48).

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PL1800/PL1800H Owner’s Manual
OPERATION
TINES RAISING/LOWERING
The tines are raised or lowered into the ground by operating the tine engagement lever on the upper handle. Tine penetration is
very dependent on surface preparation. READ the entire operation section before aerating.
AERATING OPERATION
MOW: Mow the lawn to its normal cut height.
WATER: For the best performance and maximum tine penetration the lawn should be thoroughly watered the day before
aeration.
INSPECT lawn before beginning work. Remove all rocks, wire, string, or other objects that can present a hazard during work
prior to starting.
IDENTIFY and mark all fixed objects to be avoided during work, such as sprinkler heads, water valves, buried cables, or clothes
line anchors, etc.
STARTING
ENGINE: See engine manufacturer’s instructions for type and amount of oil and gasoline used. Engine must be level when
checking and filling oil and gasoline.
ENGINE SPEED: Controlled by lever on the engine. Under normal conditions, operate at the minimum throttle speed to
accomplish your task.
ON/OFF: Set the on/off switch to ON
FUEL VALVE: Move fuel valve to "ON" position
Honda: Located below the air cleaner on the engine.
CHOKE: Engage the choke when starting a cold engine.
Honda: Located below the air cleaner on the engine.
THROTTLE: Move the throttle control lever on the engine to fast position. Pull starting rope to start engine
IF YOUR UNIT FAILS TO START: check trouble shooting section in operator’s manual. Also see engine manual
NOTE: Honda engines are equipped with a low oil sensor to prevent engine damage. When it senses a low oil condition (i.e. unit
is operating or sitting on a steep slope) the engine shuts down. The low oil condition must be corrected before the engine can be
restarted. See the engine owner’s manual for more information.
ENGAGE TINES: With the aerator in the work area, lower the by releasing the center lever on the handle. When the lever is in
the forward position, pull up on the bail to engage the tines.
AERATE: Push the machine with the tines engaged.
NOTE: in cold temperatures engage the tines in the up position for two minutes to warm the cam grease.
NOTE: For maximum tine penetration apply downward pressure on the handle.
TURNING: At the end of an aerating run, release the bail and raise the tines out of the ground. Then reposition the unit for
another pass and lower the tines to begin another run.
TRANSPORT: Be sure to raise tines out of the ground (disengaging the bail and then raising the tines with the center lever)
before transporting away from the work area.
AERATING TIPS
SLOPES: Do not operate the aerator on steep slopes (exceeding 15o). Use extreme caution when operating on any sloped
surface. For lesser sloped areas operate the unit, traversing up and down at a 45 degree angle to the slope rather than straight
across. Extended operation on steep slopes can cause engine damage.
NOTE: Honda engines are equipped with a low oil sensor to prevent engine damage. When it senses a low oil condition (i.e.
unit is operating or sitting on a steep slope) the engine shuts down. The low oil condition must be corrected before the engine
can be restarted. See the engine owner’s manual for more information.
PARKING
NEVER PARK THIS UNIT ON A SLOPE OF ANY KIND. Always keep tines in the up position when parking the unit.

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PL1800/1800H Owner’s Manual
MAINTENANCE
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
Periodic maintenance should be performed at the following intervals:
Maintenance Operation
Every Use (daily)
Every 10 hrs
Every 50 Hrs
Every 100 Hrs
Inspect for loose, worn or damaged parts.

Check engine oil.

Inspect belt for wear.

Engine (See Engine Manual)
Grease Cam bearings

Thoroughly clean all debris from unit and tines

Replace tine bushings

Grease shaft bearings and Wheel bearings

ENGINE MUST BE LEVEL WHEN CHECKING OR FILLING OIL
Troubleshooting
INDIVIDUAL TINE REPLACEMENT
1. Wait for engine to cool and disconnect spark plug.
2. Loosen the jam nut (item 13) then unscrew the tine (item 14).
3. Replace the tine making sure to use the maximum amount of threads on the tine.
NOTE: Tines are a normal wear item and should be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage.
ADJUSTING BELT TENSION-
1. Loosen the mounting bolts for the engine and then slide it to apply or relieve tension on the belt.
NOTE: A worn belt will not allow for proper adjustment and must be replaced.
DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT
1. Disconnect the spark plug.
2. Remove the lower and upper tensioner brackets (items 59 and 60) on both sides of the pulley (item 3).
3. Walk the belt (item 4) off of the engine pulley.
4. Attach a hoist mechanism to the cam shaft (item 44), and then remove the four bolts, washers, and nuts (items 52, 10 and 11) that
attach the bearing (item 9) of the cam shaft to the frame.
5. Raise the cam shaft out of the frame and remove the old belt.
6. To replace the belt, simply slide the new belt onto the pulley when the cam shaft is raised then follow the previous steps in reverse
to install.
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Engine will not start.
Stop switch off. Throttle in off position.
Engine not in full choke position. Out of
gasoline. Bad or old gasoline. Spark plug
wire disconnected. Dirty air cleaner. Engine
oil level too low (Honda only).
Check stop switches, throttle, choke
position and gasoline. Connect spark
plug wire. Clean or replace air cleaner.
Or contact a qualified service person.
Check and fill engine oil.
Abnormal vibration.
Damaged or missing tines. Loose handle
bolts. Loose engine bolts.
Stop work immediately. Replace any
damaged or missing tines. Tighten all
loose bolts and nuts.
Engine stalls or labors
when aerating
Working on too steep of a slope. Not enough
oil in the engine.
Work at 45 degrees to the slope moving
up and down instead of of across.
Check and add engine oil.
Engine is locked, will not
pull over.
Debris locked against reel, or drive pulleys.
Engine problem.
Pull spark plug wire and remove debris.
Contract an engine servicing dealer for
engine problems.
Unit does not move when
clutch is engaged.
Belt drive out of adjustment. Worn drive belt.
Loose or damaged pulleys. Damaged or
broken clutch cable.
See maintenance on pg. 10 of this
manual. Contact a qualified servicing
dealer.