GRADEN AIRROW User manual

AIRROW
VERTICUTTER / SCARIFIER
Owner’s Manual

Table of Contents
1. Specifications
1.1 Specifications
1.2 Statement of Machine Use
1.3 Serial Number Plate
2. To the Owner
2.1 Preliminary Instructions
2.2 Warning Symbols
2.3 Servicing the Verticutter
3. Safety Information
3.1 General Rules
3.2 Training
3.3 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
3.4 Preparation
3.5 Operational Safety
3.6 Maintenance Safety
4. Controls
4.1 Pulley Clutch Handle
4.2 Lifting / Lowering Handle
4.3 Motion Lever
4.4 Neutral Lever
4.5 Choke Throttle Controls
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Preliminary Checks
5.2 Start Up
5.3 Driving (Traversing) the Verticutter
5.4 Verticutting
5.5 Shut Down
6. Maintenance Operations
6.1 Adjustments and Settings
6.1.1 Rotor Belt
6.1.2 Rotor Clutch Belt
6.1.3 Jackshaft Drive Belt
6.1.4 Transmission Drive Belt
6.2 Replacements
6.2.1 Blade Replacement
6.2.2 Belt Replacement
6.3 Engine Maintenance
6.4 Maintenance Schedule
7. Warning Decals

1. Specifications
1.1 Specifications
Model Graden Airow Verticutter/Scarifier
Engine Honda GX200
Power 4.1Kw (5.5hp) Horizontal shaft
Engine Oil 0.6 litres SAE 30W Grade
Fuel Unleaded 86 RON (minimum)
Transmission Oil 5W-30 Engine Oil
Cutting Width 380mm
Cutting Depth 0-25mm (maximum with standard blades)
Blades Tungsten carbide tipped spring steel
Blade Size
Part Number 0381 190mm Diameter – 1mm tip
Blade Tip Speed 2150m/min at 3600 rpm
Weight 100kgs
Width 67cm
Length 132cm
Height 100cm
Tyres 13 x 5.00 / 6
Tyre Pressure 83kPa (12 psi)
Rotor Belt A25 Super II V-Belt
Jackshaft Drive Belt A42 Super II V-Belt
Transmission Drive Belt A33 Super II V-Belt
Rotor Clutch Belt A35 Super II V-Belt

1.2 Statement of Machine Use
The Graden Airrow Verticutter/Scarifier’s main use is as a
verticutting/scarifying/de-thatching tool on areas such as golf courses,
bowling greens, cricket wickets, tennis courts and other sporting fields
and fine turf areas.
It is not for use on turf areas where rocks and other hard foreign bodies
may be present. The use of this machine in turf profiles of this nature will
likely cause premature wear or shattering of the blade tips and could
result in rocks being projected at dangerous speeds, resulting in
potential injury to the operator or damage to the machinery.
This machine is not for use in anything other than the soil profiles
typically to be found on the sporting fields mentioned above. Any use
of this machine in any other type of surface or for any other purpose
may void the warranty.
Please contact Graden Industries if you are unsure about your
application complying with the intended use of this machine.
1.3 Serial Number Plate
The serial number plate layout is shown below. It is important to note in
particular the Model and Serial numbers to assist you when ordering
parts or discussing servicing needs with your Graden Dealer. Also on
the plate you will find mass information and the year of manufacture.

2. To the Owner
Read this manual before operating the Verticutter
2.1 Preliminary Instructions
•It is important that the owner completely familiarises themselves with
the contents of this manual
•Keep this manual at hand as a ready reference for anybody using
the Graden Airrow Verticutter
•The designed and tested safety features of this machine are
dependent on it being operated within the limitations described in
this manual
2.2 Warning Symbols
Throughout this manual the following symbols are used to indicate
important safety issues. When either or both of these symbols are
present the operator must be aware that there is the potential to
damage equipment and/or incur serious personal injury.
WARNING 
This signal denotes a potential equipment hazard:
failing to follow the instructions or procedures may
result in equipment malfunction or damage.
DANGER 
This signal denotes a serious personal safety hazard:
failing to follow the instructions or procedures may
result in serious, or even fatal, injury.

2.3 Servicing the Verticutter
The Graden Airrow Verticutter has been carefully engineered and
manufactured to provide safe, dependable and effective service.
As with all mechanical equipment it requires routine cleaning and
maintenance.
Your authorised Graden representative has access to tools, genuine
spares and equipment to service any and all of your requirements.
Use only genuine Graden parts; substitute parts will void the warranty
and may not meet the safety and performance standards required for
safe and effective operation of the Verticutter.
Please record the model and serial numbers of the Verticutter in the
space provided below and quote this information when ordering parts
or communicating with Graden Industries or its’ approved
representatives.
Model Number :
Serial Number :
Date Purchased :

3. Safety Information
This manual is provided to help you operate and maintain the
Verticutter. Please read it carefully.
It has been compiled from extensive field experience and engineering
data.
In some aspects it is generalised because it is impossible to cover all
operating scenarios. However, combining the information provided in
this manual with your own increasing experience and knowledge with
the Verticutter will enable you to develop procedures suitable for your
individual needs.
The Verticutter, like most modern machinery, is constantly undergoing
development on the basis of experience and market needs. At the
time of printing, material in this manual was current but may vary due
to the aforementioned ongoing development.
Graden Industries reserve the right to change the machinery
specifications without notice.
3.1 General Rules
•Direction on the machine (right or left) is determined from standing
behind the handles and facing in the direction of forward travel
•When viewed from the right side the blades rotate anti-clockwise
(counter rotating to the forward rotation of the rear drive wheels)
•This is a precision piece of machinery with high speed cutting blades
DANGER 
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts of
the Verticutter, especially the tungsten carbide
tipped blades

•Do not allow children to operate the machine or be near it during its
operation.
•Only people who are very familiar with the rules of safe operation
should be allowed to use this machine
•Only use the machine during daylight or in good artificial light
•Some diagrams in this manual show the Verticutter with safety
guards removed. This is not a normal situation!
DANGER 
Never operate the Verticutter with any of
the covers or safety guards removed or not
properly secured.
3.2 Training
WARNING 
Read this manual completely before
learning how to use the Verticutter
•Do not allow anybody to operate the machine without instruction
•Know your controls and how to stop the machine and shut down
the engine quickly in an emergency
•To maintain control and reduce the possibility of upset, damage or
collision, operate the machine smoothly. Avoid erratic operation
and excessive speed.

WARNING 
Stay alert for holes, ditches or obstacles that
might obstruct the unit or cause it to tip over.
•Be aware of the hazards associated with the engine :
⇒Petrol is highly flammable so only use an appropriate container
⇒Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel while the engine is
running or still hot
⇒Never add fuel indoors and wipe up any spillages
⇒Never run the engine in an enclosed area because exhaust
gases are toxic
DANGER 
The engine uses highly flammable petroleum
fuel and produces toxic exhaust gases.
Only add fuel to, or run, the engine in the
open - never indoors.
3.3 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
•Clothing should be reasonably snug fitting and not free flowing so as
to avoid the risk of entanglement in moving parts.
•Wear sturdy footwear, preferably steel capped safety shoes or boots
•Use appropriate PPE for eyes, ears and hands
DANGER 
Never wear sandals, sneakers or have
bare feet when operating the Verticutter.

3.4 Preparation
•Ensure all safety warnings and decals are in place and legible.
•Remove any accumulated debris that might represent a fire hazard.
•Ensure that the blades are in a serviceable condition and that the
rotor shaft mounting bolts are secure.
•Perform any appropriate scheduled maintenance before starting
the machine.
3.5 Operational Safety
•Always disengage the rotor blades before attempting to start the
Verticutter.
•Always raise the rotor blades before attempting to start the
machine.
•Always disengage the blades and raise them when crossing gravel,
walkways, roads, etc. or indeed any ground which you do not wish
to cut.
DANGER 
Always disengage the rotor blades and stop the
engine in any of the following situations :
•leaving the machine unattended
•attempting to unclog or clear the blades
•making any repairs or adjustments
•inspecting the unit for damage after striking
any foreign object
•Always repair any damage before recommencing operation.

3.6 Maintenance Safety
DANGER 
Raise blades clear of turf or surface, disengage
blades and turn off the engine before carrying
out any maintenance or servicing.
•Never allow anybody to start the engine while adjustments,
maintenance or servicing are being performed.
•Keep machine free of any debris
•Remove debris from underneath the Verticutter after each use.
•Verify that all warning labels and decals are present, visible and
legible.
•Periodically check that all bolts, fasteners and catches are secure
and in safe operating condition.
•After any maintenance or servicing, ensure that all guards and
safety devices are correctly installed and secure before operating
the Verticutter.
DANGER 
Frequently check the rotor blades. Verify that all
the tips are in good condition.
Ensure that the blades are firmly held and there
is no slack due to damaged or worn spacers.

4. Controls
All directions are given with reference to standing behind the handles
and facing in the direction of forward travel.
4.1 Pulley Clutch Handle
Located behind the engine on top of engine base.
This handle engages the rotor blades. To engage the blades pull the
pulley clutch handle towards you gently and smoothly until it locks
down in position. To disengage simply push the handle away from you.
You should have your engine revs up before engaging the blades. You
should engage the blades before lowering them into the turf.
4.2 Lifting/Lowering Handle
Located on left hand side of steering column.
This lever lowers and raises the blades out of the turf. The blades should
be engaged before lowering them into the turf - this avoids undue
stress on the rotor belts and engine. To lower, slowly push the handle
forwards. To raise pull the lever towards you until you hit the stop
bracket.
4.3 Motion Lever
Located on the right hand side of steering column.
This lever controls forward motion of the Verticutter. Pulling the lever
towards you until it stops brings the machine to the stop position. Push
the motion lever forwards and the machine travels forward at a rate
depending on how far the lever is pushed. Maximum speed
corresponds to a brisk walking pace.
4.4 Neutral Lever
Located on the Right Hand Handlebar.
This lever drops the transaxle into neutral which enables you to steer the
machine and position it for your next run. Depress the lever and the
unit will instantly be dropped into neutral allowing for easy steering due
to the light weight of the verticutter. Releasing the lever drops the unit
back into drive.
4.5 Choke/Throttle Controls
Located on the engine.
These controls are located on the engine, thoroughly read the engine
manual accompanying this owners manual before using this verticutter
to ensure you are familiar with the operating procedures of the engine.

5. Operating Instructions
DANGER 
Do not operate the Verticutter until you
have completely read this manual.
5.1 Preliminary Checks
1. Clear any debris from above and underneath the machine
2. Ensure scheduled maintenance activities have been
completed.
3. Inspect belts for condition and correct tension.
4. Inspect blades for wear or damage.
5. Ensure all guards and covers are firmly fixed in place.
6. Check engine oil level; change according to manufacturer’s
recommendations.
5.2 Start Up
1. Check that blades are disengaged - push the pulley clutch
handle all the way forward.
2. Check that the blades are in the raised position - pull the
Lifting/lowering handle towards you and ensure that it locks
into position.
3. Check that motion lever is in the stop (full back) position.
4. Turn engine switch to ON.
5. Move fuel valve lever to the ON position.
6. Operate the choke lever in the direction of the arrow.
7. Slide the engine lever about half way toward the FAST
position.
8. Pull the recoil starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull
briskly. Return the starter grip gently. Repeat until engine starts.
9. Once the engine starts slide the choke lever to the off position
immediately.
5.3 Driving (Traversing) the Verticutter
1. Use the motion lever to move in the desired direction. Push
the lever forward (away from you) to move forward. Speed is
controlled by how far the motion lever is pushed forward.
2. To steer or manoeuvre the verticutter in a desired direction
depress the Neutral Lever to put the transaxle into neutral then
steer the machine as you desire, dropping back into drive
once you have lined up your direction of travel by releasing
the Neutral Lever.

5.4 Verticutting
1. Select the depth of cut via the height adjustment knob.
Normal range of cut (with standard 190mm blades) is 0mm to
25 mm deep. One revolution of the knob is approximately
equivalent to 1mm change in the cutting depth. Clockwise
rotation of the knob means a shallower cut; anti-clockwise
means a deeper cut.
2. Increase engine speed to maximum rpm; maximum engine
speed results in a high blade tip speed and a cleaner cut.
3. Engage the blades by slowly pulling the pulley clutch handle
toward you.
4. Lower the blades into the turf by slowly pushing the lifting /
lowering handle forward.
5. Move the motion lever forward until you are moving at the
desired speed.
6. The machine will naturally run in a straight line whilst in drive.
Ensure that you maintain a straight line while the blades are
cutting. Trying to change direction while the blades are in the
turf may lead to a furrowing/scalping action and can put
undue stress on the blades and belts.
7. At the end of a pass:
-depress the Neutral Lever
-raise the blades by pulling the Lifting/Lowering Handle
towards you
-line up the Verticutter for your next run
-lower the blades with the Lifting/Lowering Handle
-release the Neutral lever
When travelling from area to area always raise and disengage the
blades.
5.5 Shut Down
1. Move the motion lever to the stop position
2. Raise the blades out of turf.
3. Disengage blades.
4. Traverse machine to storage/maintenance area.
5. Turn engine speed to idle.
6. Turn engine switch to OFF.
7. Slide petrol lever to OFF.
8. Clear rotor blades of any debris.
9. Clear transmission of any debris, ensuring cooling fins are not
clogged.
10.Generally clean the Verticutter, making sure that there is no
accumulated debris around the engine.

6. Maintenance Operations
The performance of certain maintenance, adjustment or repair
operations will be determined by the owner’s facilities.
Tilting of the machine for the purpose of under-deck servicing should
be done with great care.
If the Verticutter is tilted forward (i.e. pivoting over the front axle) there is
a risk that engine oil can enter the cylinder head of the engine and
transmission oil can leak from the breather located on top of the
transmission.
Either occurrence can result in expensive repairs to the machine
WARNING 
Under no circumstances tilt the Verticutter
forward to carry out under-deck maintenance.
For the purpose of under-deck servicing, tilting the machine back so
that it rests on its handles is acceptable provided that the following
precautions are taken:
1. Lift the front of the machine up until the handles contact the
ground
WARNING 
Never lift the front of the machine by pushing
down on the handles.
2. While holding the machine in this position securely support the
front of the machine to prevent it from falling while work is being
carried out.
3. When finished, gently lower the front of the machine back down
to the ground.

6.1 Adjustments and Settings
6.1.1 Rotor belt
This belt runs from the blade transfer pulley to the rotor shaft. Correct
tension on the rotor belt is provided by an idler pulley in a slot under the
cover. First remove the cover then loosen the bolt holding the rotor
belt idler pulley in place. Slide the pulley so the tension on the rotor
belt is sufficient, then tighten the idler pulley back in place. Replace
the cover.
6.1.2 Rotor Clutch Belt
This belt runs from the engine shaft to the blade transfer pulley. It is
engaged and disengaged by the Pulley Clutch Handle. If it has
become loose you can apply extra tension on the belt by adjusting the
balljoint at the end of the Clutch rod. Tension should not be too tight,
only enough to engage the blades and not incur slippage of the belts
under load.
6.1.3 Jackshaft Drive Belt
This belt is spring tensioned and does not need re-tensioning.
6.1.4 Transmission Drive Belt
This belt runs from the Jackshaft to the transmission. It has two idler
pulleys providing tension to the belt. Excess tension places unnecessary
strain on the transmission and causes premature belt wear.
Inadequate tension will cause slippage and a lack of drive to the rear
wheels; however, the tension required to ensure satisfactory operation
is relatively low. Tension can be increased easily by loosening the lock
nut (higher of two nuts) on the adjusting rod (which is located on top of
the engine base, just in front of the steering column) then turning the
tensioning nut (the lower of the two nuts) in a clockwise direction. Test
the new tension and if sufficient re-tighten the lock nut on the lever.

6.2 Replacements
6.2.1 Blade replacement
1. Remove the belt guard.
2. Remove the rotor belt from the rotor shaft.
3. Loosen the retainer bracket on the bearing housing on the
left hand side and swivel it up out of the way.
4. From the operating position, push the Lifting/Lowering
Lever forward and tilt back the machine at the same time.
5. Pull the machine backwards and the rotor shaft should
come free from the rotor shaft housing
6. Remove the pulley on the rotor shaft and the bearing
housing as well.
7. Loosen the large nut on the rotor shaft and remove.
8. Remove the blades and spacers and replace as required,
ensuring that they go back on the shaft in the same
direction and configuration (i.e. counter-rotating to
direction of forward travel and successive blades offset
one face on the rotor shaft).
9. Re-fit the bearing housing and pulley on the end of the
rotor shaft and re-install into the rotor shaft housing
10. Swivel the retainer bracket on the left hand side back
down to retain rotor shaft and tighten back in place.
11. Re-fit the rotor belt and re-tension. Ensure rotor pulley is
aligned properly with the rotor belt.
12. Re-fit belt guard.
6.2.2 Belt Replacement
Note: Most of the stretch that the belts experience takes place in the
first few hours under load conditions after they have been first installed.
After fitting new belts it is advisable that the tension be checked
regularly in the first 3 to 4 hours of operation.
6.2.2.1 Rotor Belt
1. Remove the belt guard.
2. Take all tension off the belt by loosening the idler pulley in
its slot.
3. Remove the rotor belt and replace.
4. Re-tension the idler pulley and tighten in place.
5. Re-fit the belt guard.

6.2.2.2 Rotor Clutch Belt
1. Remove the belt guard.
2. Take tension off the rotor belt by loosening the idler pulley
in its slot.
3. Remove the rotor belt from the transfer pulley end only.
4. Release tension off the rotor clutch belt by pushing the
lever forward.
5. Remove the rotor clutch belt and replace.
6. Replace rotor belt on transfer pulley and re-tension.
7. Re-fit the belt guard.
6.2.2.3 Jackshaft Drive Belt
1. Remove the belt guard.
2. Remove rotor clutch belt from engine pulley end.
3. Take tension off Jackshaft belt by using a crow bar or
similar tool to lever the idler pulley mechanism on the
jackshaft drive belt up, thereby releasing tension and
allowing you to remove the belt from either the jackshaft
or the engine pulley.
4. Re-fit a new jackshaft belt, again by levering the idler
pulley mechanism up to reduce tension on the belt and
allow you to place it around the jackshaft and engine
pulleys.
5. Re-fit the rotor clutch belt.
6. Re-fit the belt guard.
6.2.2.4 Transmission Drive Belt
1. Remove the belt guard.
2. Remove the jackshaft belt from the jackshaft as described
above.
3 Remove tension on the transmission drive belt by loosening
the locknut on the idler arm and turning the tensioning nut
anti-clockwise.
4. The belt can now be eased off the transmission and
jackshaft pulleys and replaced.
5. Re-tension the belt by turning the tensioning nut clockwise.
6. When sufficient belt tension has been achieved tighten the
lock not back down onto the tensioning nut.
7. Re-fit the jackshaft belt to the jackshaft pulley.
8. Re-fit belt guard.

6.3 Engine Maintenance
Maintenance on the Verticutter engine should be carried out as per
the manufacturer’s owner’s manual supplied with this machine.
To drain engine oil a slot has been provided in the Verticutter engine
base immediately under the engine oil drain plug.
1. Place a shallow tray under the verticutter, ensuring that it lines
up with the hole below the oil drain plug.
2. Remove the oil filler cap and loosen the oil drain plug at the
bottom rear edge of the engine until oil begins to flow. Do not
completely remove the plug at this stage to avoid oil flooding
over the machine’s deck.
3. As oil flow diminishes remove the drain plug and allow oil to
drain completely.
4. Replace drain plug and re-fill engine with oil as per
manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Carefully remove the oil drip tray.
6. Dispose of the waste oil as required by local laws.
6.4 Maintenance Schedule
During first 4 hours:
•Check tension on all belts regularly, tension as required.
•Check all bolts are tight
Daily Before Use:
•Check for worn, slipping or damaged belts
•Check for worn or damaged blades
•Check for any loose nuts, bolts and fasteners
•Check engine oil for correct level
Daily After Use:
•Clear rotor blades of any debris
•Clear bottom of transmission, especially unclog cooling fins
•Clear any debris generally, especially from around engine
Every 12 Months:
•Grease pivot points and tighten bolts where required
•Check all belts for wear and tension ; replace if necessary
Transmission Maintenance
•Transmission fitted to this machine is a sealed hydrostatic
unit which should not require attention. In the event of
drive issues contact the company your Verticutter was
purchased through or your local Graden agent for advice.