Protea Turf Equipment 610 Groomer User guide

PROTEA GROOMERS
OWNER’S HANDBOOK
English Version
FROM SERIAL NOS:
MODEL 510Groomer: 267157
MODEL 630Groomer: 212357
HANDBOOK: Groomer Version 1.2
ISSUE: 1st.January 2008

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
RIVENDELL PROJECTS LIMITED
THEGRANGE
SUTTON-CUM-GRANBY
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NG139QA
ENGLAND
Declares that the scarifier:
Manufacturer: Protea Turf Equipment cc,
32, Shaft Road, Knights, Germiston,
1400 Gauteng, Republic of South Africa
Machine Type No. 510 Groomer fitted with Robin EX13 Engine
Category: Pedestrian Scarifier
Engine - Manufacturer: Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
- Speed of rotation: 3,000 min-1
Width of cutting device: 457mm
Speed of rotation of the cutting device: 1,385 min-1
Measured sound power level: 95 dB (LWA)
Guaranteed sound power level: 98 dB (LWA)
Complies with the provisions of Directive: 98/37/EC Essential Health & Safety Requirements Relating to the
Design & Construction of Machinery and Safety Components.
Also Directive 89/336/EEC amended by 92/31/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility.
Also Directive 2000/14/EC Noise emission in the environment by equipment for use outdoors. (ANNEX V)
Standards Used: EN292, EN13684, ISO11094 & ISO3744
Authorised Signatory:
Signed
Declared at and Technical File retained at:
KEITH JOHN COLLINGWOOD THE GRANGE
DIRECTOR SUTTON-CUM-GRANBY
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NG139QA
Date: 4th. May 2007 ENGLAND
VIBRATION INFORMATION
RMS acceleration measured in 3 - axes at operators contact position on the handlebars 3.8 ms-2, measured in
accordance with EN13684 Annex E
NOISE AT OPERATOR EAR
84 dB (LPA), measured in accordance with EN13684 Annex C & ISO11201

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
RIVENDELL PROJECTS LIMITED
THEGRANGE
SUTTON-CUM-GRANBY
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NG139QA
ENGLAND
Declares that the scarifier:
Manufacturer: Protea Turf Equipment cc
32, Shaft Road, Knights, Germiston,
1400 Gauteng, Republic of South Africa
Machine Type No. 630 Groomer fitted with Robin EX13 Engine
Category: Pedestrian Scarifier
Engine - Manufacturer: Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
- Speed of rotation: 3,000 min-1
Width of cutting device: 597mm
Speed of rotation of the cutting device: 1,385 min-1
Measured sound power level: 94 dB (LWA)
Guaranteed sound power level: 98 dB (LWA)
Complies with the provisions of Directive: 98/37/EC Essential Health & Safety Requirements Relating to the
Design & Construction of Machinery and Safety Components.
Also Directive 89/336/EEC amended by 92/31/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility.
Also Directive 2000/14/EC Noise emission in the environment by equipment for use outdoors. (ANNEX V)
Standards Used: EN292, EN13684, ISO11094 & ISO3744
Authorised Signatory:
Signed
Declared at and Technical File retained at:
KEITH JOHN COLLINGWOOD THE GRANGE
DIRECTOR SUTTON-CUM-GRANBY
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NG139QA
Date: 4th. May 2007 ENGLAND
VIBRATION INFORMATION
RMS acceleration measured in 3 - axes at operators contact position on the handlebars 3.9 ms-2, measured in
accordance with EN13684 Annex E
NOISE AT OPERATOR EAR
83 dB (LPA), measured in accordance with EN13684 Annex C & ISO11201

CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
2. WARRANTY
3. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
4. SPECIFICATIONS
5. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
STARTING THE ENGINE
Before starting the engine.
Starting the engine.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
ADJUSTMENTS PRIOR TO SCARIFYING
Height of Cut (Front Roller)
Deflector
5.4 OPERATING THE MACHINE
5.4.1 Cutting
5.4.2 Travel
5.4.3 Turning the machine
5.4.4 Grooming with grass collection
5.4.5 Grooming without grass collection
5.4.6 Heavy growth
5.4.7 Moving the machine across non-grassed areas
6. SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
6.1.1 Handle Attachment
6.1.2 Engine Speed Control Cable Attachment
6.1.3 Electrical Safety System Connection
6.2 MAINTENANCE
6.2.1 Cleaning
6.2.2 Engine
6.2.3 Securing nuts and bolts.
6.2.4 Grooming reel alignment
6.2.5 Chain transmission
6.2.6 Drum & components
6.2.7 Reel replacement
6.3 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
6.4 PREPARING THE MOWER FOR STORAGE
CUSTOMER DATA
7 PARTS LISTS

1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing your Protea Groomer. The following pages are designed to help you gain safe and
efficient service from your machine.
IMPORTANT: This Owners Handbook should be regarded as part of the machine as it gives essential
information regarding machine safety, operation, maintenance and specifications. Read and understand this
handbook prior to operating your Groomer for the first time. Make sure you are familiar with all the controls
and points of regular maintenance.
If you have any doubts, consult your Rivendell authorised dealer or Rivendell Projects Limited, either of which
will be pleased to give you assistance.
The contents of this handbook apply to the following Protea products:
510 Groomer 610 Groomer
Where specific instructions apply to a particular model, these are clearly marked.
The Protea Groomer is designed only for use on high quality level turfed areas and lawns, where accurate
light scarification is required. The Normal Operator Position is in a standing or walking position behind the
machine with both hands gripping the top section of the handles, as shown in this illustration:
Fig 1
Use in any other way is considered as contrary to the intended use. Compliance with and strict adherence to
the conditions of operation, service and repair as specified in this handbook also constitute essential elements
of the intended use.
This machine should be operated, serviced and repaired only by persons who are familiar with its particular
characteristics and who are acquainted with relevant safety procedures. The safety precautions listed herein
and all other generally recognised regulations relating to safety must be observed at all times.
All Protea machines are robustly constructed and designed for efficient economical performance under normal
operating conditions. Correct operation and maintenance will ensure a long and satisfactory service life. Prior
to despatch from the factory every effort is made to ensure your machine arrives in perfect condition.
If you have purchased through an authorised dealer, please allow him to familiarise you with the controls and
safety features of the machine during installation: otherwise please ensure you are familiar by studying the
contents of this manual prior to use.
Throughout this handbook all references to left hand and right hand are as viewed from behind the handles,
facing in the direction of forward travel.
This owners handbook is based on information available at the time of publication.
Rivendell Projects Limited reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice.

LOCATION OF KEY COMPONENTS
Viewed from the front of the machine:
Fig 2
1 Engine Speed Control
2 Handles Top Section
3 Operator Safety Control
4 Drive Control Lever
5 Engine Start Handle
6 Engine On/Off Switch
7 Rear Roller (not visible)
8 Rear Roller Height Adjuster
9 Deflector
10 Cutting Reel
11 Front Roller
12 Safety Guard
13 Grassbox Mounts (LHS)

ARRANGEMENT OF CONTROLS
Viewed from the front of the machine:
Fig 3
1 Drive Control Lever
2 Handles Top Section
3 Operator Safety Control
4 Engine Speed Control
5 Engine Start Handle

2. WARRANTY
Rivendell Projects Limited warrants to the original user/purchaser that this unit shall be free from defects in
material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from the date of purchase.
To qualify for the full benefit of this warranty, the warranty registration form must be completed and returned to
Rivendell Projects Limited within 60 days of purchase. Subject to the conditions and exclusions noted in this
limited warranty we shall, at our option, repair or replace any warranted part during the applicable period. The
manufacturers of the engine furnish their own warranty and their services are provided through the Rivendell
Authorised Dealer network. If you are in doubt or experience any difficulty concerning either warranty, please
consult a Rivendell Authorised Dealer for clarification.
This warranty does not apply to those items which are subject to normal wear and tear e.g. blades, rollers,
clutches, cables and other consumable wearing parts, warranty of which is strictly limited to manufacturing
defects.
This warranty does not apply to any unit that has been tampered with, altered, misused, used for hire or
commercial reward or not properly maintained adjusted and serviced in accordance with the
recommendations in this Handbook, and will become invalid if any parts, which are not genuine Protea parts,
are fitted. This warranty does not cover minor mechanical adjustments unless they are due to defective
material or workmanship. Consult the Owner’s Handbook or a Rivendell Authorised Dealer for assistance
when making these adjustments.
To make a warranty claim, return the unit to your original supplier along with proof of purchase stating the
machine serial number and date of purchase. Subject to the conditions and exclusions in this limited warranty,
we or the authorised dealer will, at our option, repair or replace any warranted part within the duration of the
warranty period.
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and is in addition to any statutory rights to which you may
be entitled and your statutory rights are not affected by this warranty. If you need additional information
concerning this written warranty, or assistance in obtaining services, please write to the sole official European
Distributors:
Rivendell Projects Limited, The Grange, Sutton-cum-Granby, Nottinghamshire NG13 9QA, tel. [phone]
or by email to: [email protected]

3. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
THIS SYMBOL MEANS BE ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL BE ALERT TO THE POSSIBILITY OF INJURY. CAREFULLY READ THE
MESSAGE THAT FOLLOWS AND INFORM OTHERS. EXERCISE GREAT CARE AND FOLLOW THE
ADVICE GIVEN TO AVOID POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATIONS.
Your Protea Groomer is perfectly safe if used correctly. Failure to observe the following simple precautions
may result in serious injury.
Training
Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment.
Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the machine. Local regulations
can restrict the age of the operator.
Never operate the machine while people, especially children, or animals are nearby.
Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other
people or their property.
Preparation
While operating, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all objects which can be
thrown by the machine.
WARNING — Petrol is highly flammable:
—store fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose;
—refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refuelling;
—add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol while
the engine is running or when the engine is hot;
—if petrol is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but move the machine away from the
area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until petrol vapours have dissipated;
—always use fresh fuel. Stale fuel can block the fuel system and cause leakage;
—replace all fuel tanks and container caps securely;
—replace faulty exhausts and silencers.
Always ensure that the machine is in a safe operating condition. Frequently check all nuts, bolts
and screws for tightness. Use only genuine Protea replacement parts.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS (continued)
Damaged cutting reels and loose fixing bolts are major hazards. Before use, visually inspect the
cutting mechanism to ensure that it is in good condition. A damaged cutting blade must be replaced
immediately with a genuine Protea replacement part. Blades which are worn or slightly damaged
should not be resharpened.
Please refer to the section titled "Maintenance."
Operation
Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
Operate only in daylight or in good artificial light.
Avoid operating the equipment on wet grass, where feasible.
Always be sure of your footing on slopes.
Walk, never run.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
Do not operate on excessively steep slopes.
Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the machine towards you.
Stop the engine if the machine has to be tilted for transportation when crossing surfaces other than
grass, and when transporting it to and from the area to be scarified.
Never operate the machine with defective guards or safety devices.
Never start the engine with the clutch engaged.
Start the engine carefully according to instructions and with hands and feet well away from the blades.
Never pick up or carry the machine while the engine is running.
Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut down and close the fuel supply valve at the conclusion
of operation.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS (continued)
Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating an engine at
excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury;
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts while the machine is being operated;
Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug lead:
— before checking, cleaning or working on the machine;
—after striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for damage and make repairs before
restarting and operating it;
—if the machine starts to vibrate abnormally (check immediately);
Stop the engine:
— whenever you leave the machine other than to empty the grassbox;
— before refuelling;
— before clearing blockages.
WARNING: THE REEL CAN CONTINUE TO ROTATE AFTER THE ENGINE IS SWITCHED OFF
Maintenance and storage
Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
Never store the equipment with petrol in the tank inside a building where fumes can reach an open
flame or spark.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
To reduce the fire hazard, keep the engine, silencer and petrol storage area free of grass, leaves, or
excessive grease.
Inspect the machine frequently for wear or deterioration.
Replace worn or damaged parts for safety.
If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors.
Be careful during adjustment of the machine to prevent entrapment of the fingers between moving
blades and fixed parts of the machine.

WARNING DECALS:
The following decals are displayed on the machine. Please read this section carefully and ensure you are
familiar with the symbols and their messages.
Warning - caution risk of danger - safety alert.
Carefully read the operators manual before using the machine
Danger of being hit by thrown objects
Keep bystanders at a safe distance from the machine
Stop engine and remove spark plug lead before performing maintenance or repair work
Danger of severing toes or fingers in cutting mechanism.
Warning: the reel can continue to rotate after the engine is switched off
Carefully read the operators manual before performing maintenance on the machine

4. SPECIFICATIONS
MODELS 510 Groomer 630 Groomer
Engine: Subaru Robin EX13 EX13
Engine type Air-cooled 4-cycle single cylinder, overhead camshaft
Engine displacement 126cc 126cc
Maximum output
(Manufacturer’s rating) 3.2kW 3.2kW
Maximum engine speed rpm
(Manufacturer’s rating) 4,000 4,000
Maximum permitted engine
speed in this installation 3,000 3,000
Fuel type Premium unleaded petrol
Fuel capacity 2.7 Litres
Oil type Automotive detergent oil, SAE 10W-30
Oil sump capacity 0.6 Litres
Working width mm 457 597
Cutting height mm From -2 to +30
Length mm *** 920 920
Width mm 675 795
Height mm 930 930
Dry Weight Kg *** 70 76
*** including grassbox

5. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY NOTICE
Before using the machine, read this owners handbook carefully.
Pay particular attention to the safety precautions.
IMPORTANT – PREVENT ENGINE DAMAGE – KEEP MACHINE UPRIGHT
The machine must always be stored and used in the upright position. If the machine is tilted
excessively, fuel and/or oil can leak and cause damage. Always follow these instructions:
1. NEVER tilt the machine rearwards when the engine is running except to raise the front roller slightly
when turning. The engine manufacturer warns that it can suffer serious damage if tilted more than 27
degrees when running.
2. ALWAYS turn the fuel tap to the closed (horizontal) position before tilting the machine back to adjust
the cutting height. If the fuel tap is in the open position, fuel can leak from the carburettor.
3. NEVER leave the machine tilted fully back on its handles, even when adjusting the height of cut with
a setting gauge or straight edge. If the machine is left in this position, oil will flow from the sump to
the cambox. If this occurs inadvertently DO NOT ATTEMPT TO START THE ENGINE, as oil will be
drawn into the combustion chamber. Instead, stand the machine upright and leave for 30 minutes to
allow the oil to drain back into the sump.
4. ALWAYS transport the machine in the upright position, i.e. both front and rear roller resting on a
horizontal surface. The handles are designed to be folded if necessary during transportation to allow
the machine to be carried in a vehicle with limited headroom.
If the machine must be tilted to gain access to the underside, the grassbox should be used as a support for
the handles as shown in the following illustration:

5.1 STARTING THE ENGINE
5.1.1 BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
IMPORTANT - PREVENT ENGINE DAMAGE: The engine may be shipped without oil or petrol. The engine
must be filled with the correct grade of oil and petrol before starting the engine. Always check the oil level
before starting the engine.
Your Protea Groomer is equipped with an interlocking electrical safety system which disables the engine
ignition circuit when the operator controls are set to certain combinations of positions. In addition, the Subaru
Robin engine has a separate ignition cutout switch, which can prevent the engine from starting or running
independently of the position of the operator controls.
The engine will stop and be prevented from starting if:
1) the engine cutout switch is set to “off” or, if fitted with the engine oil sensor, the engine oil is below
the minimum safe level
OR
2) (a) the engine speed control is NOT at its slowest setting
AND
(b) the operator safety control is released.
Thus, the machine will only operate normally with the engine cutout switch “on” and the operator safety
control held against the handle.
For operator convenience, the engine will continue to run (“tickover”) when the operator safety control is
released provided the engine speed control is moved to its slowest setting. This enables the grassbox to be
emptied safely without the need to re-start the engine.
5.1.2 STARTING THE ENGINE
Turn the fuel tap “on”: the tap is “on” when the lever is pointing downward.
Operate the engine cutout switch: the engine cutout switch must be set to the “on” position.
Close the choke lever on the engine. The choke is necessary to richen the fuel:air mixture when starting a
cold engine. Operation of the choke is usually unnecessary when starting a warm engine.
Operate the operator safety control: Pull back the lever.
Operate the engine control lever: Move the lever about one-third of its travel towards the “fast” position.
Operate the engine start - grip: Stand behind the machine and maintain a firm hold on the handlebar to
prevent the machine moving. Use your right hand to hold the engine start-grip and pull slowly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly to crank the engine. When the engine starts carefully return the engine start-grip to
the storage position.
Allow the engine to run for a few seconds, then open the choke lever slowly until the engine is running
smoothly. Do not allow the engine to run for more than a few seconds with the choke lever closed. Reduce
the engine speed to idle by moving the engine control lever.
If the engine does not start after 5 attempts refer to the engine handbook for assistance.
IMPORTANT: Prevent engine damage. Never pull the engine start-grip when the engine is running.

5.2 STOPPING THE ENGINE
Stopping the engine: release the operator safety control and move the engine speed control to increase
engine speed. This operation will confirm that the safety cutout system is operating correctly. If the engine
does not stop, move the engine speed control to its slowest setting, move the engine cutout switch to the
“off” position and contact a competent person for assistance. DO NOT restart the engine until the safety
cutout system has been checked and approved by a competent person.
Emergency stop: release the operator safety control.
Always turn off the fuel tap when mowing is finished. This will avoid petrol leakage and help prevent
gumming when the machine is in storage. The tap is “off” when the lever is pointing horizontally.
5.3 ADJUSTMENTS PRIOR TO SCARIFYING
SAFETY NOTICE
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING: Always stop the engine and disconnect the spark
plug lead before cleaning, inspecting or working on the machine.
WARNING: PREVENT ACCIDENTS Before scarifying, thoroughly inspect the area where the
machine is to be used and remove all stones, sticks, wires, bones and other foreign objects, which
when contacted by the scarifying reel could become dangerous projectiles or cause damage. Inspect
the area for hidden obstructions which when contacted by the cutters could risk health and safety or
cause damage. Remember the location of these obstructions and ensure that you scarify around
them.
CAUTION: Prevent engine damage - DO NOT use the machine on a slope greater than 30% (16.7 degrees).
5.3.1 HEIGHT OF CUT
CAUTION: Prevent damage - Always select a height of cut to suit operating conditions. Prevent transmission
overload by running the engine at, or slightly below, its maximum speed. Do not attempt to scarify deeper
than the recommended limit of 2mm below surface level. Do not allow blockages to occur – empty the
grassbox before it fills and do not allow debris to overflow into the cutting reel. Never use the machine on
long grass, i.e. greater than 12.5mm. high.
To adjust the height of cut (See Fig.4):
FRONT ROLLER
The height of cut of the machine is controlled by the adjustment of the front roller.
The machine cuts lower if the front roller is raised, or alternatively the machine cuts higher if the front roller is
lowered.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
WARNING – AVOID PETROL SPILLAGE – TURN OFF PETROL BEFORE TILTING MACHINE.
Adjust the front roller position by rotating the height adjustment knob (4) Fig.4. As an approximate guide,
each complete turn of the height adjustment knob will raise or lower the cutting height by 1.25mm.

Before using the Groomer for the first time, set the cutting height exactly at ground level using a straight edge.
Tilt the machine back using the grassbox as shown in Section 5 above. Place a metal straight edge under the
machine at a tangent to the front and rear rollers. Holding the straight edge in place, turn the reel by hand,
adjusting the front roller with the height adjustment knob until the reel just contacts the straight edge. Then
turn the height adjustment knob clockwise two complete turns. This will set the cutting height at 2.5mm. As all
greens differ, the best setting will now be determined by experimentation. Never adjust cutting height by more
than 1.25mm without testing the result.
Fig.4
5.3.2 DEFLECTOR
Collection of material into the grassbox can sometimes be improved by altering the deflector. To adjust,
loosen the adjustment set screws (1) Fig. 4, and by moving the deflector plate upwards, the throw will be
higher, or downwards and the throw will be lower. After adjustment retighten the set screws. Prior to
experimenting with different positions, a note of the original position should be made. Make small adjustments
and note the effect of each until the desired result is achieved.

5.4 OPERATING THE MACHINE
The operator safety control must be held against the handlebar at all times during operation.
5.4.1 CUTTING
Move the engine control lever to set the required engine speed. The automatic clutch will engage and the
grooming reel will rotate. Ensure the engine speed is sufficient to engage the automatic clutch fully before
commencing operation.
Move the engine control lever to the slowest position to stop the rotation of the grooming reel. At low engine
speeds the automatic clutch will disengage.
5.4.2 TRAVEL
Forward Travel: To cut without using the engine to drive the rear roller, push the machine forward. This is
useful when scarifying small areas in tight spaces.
To use the engine to drive the rear roller, pull back the drive control lever.
Release the drive control lever to stop the machine from travelling in a forward direction
Speed Control: Travel speed can be altered by selecting a different position on the engine control lever. With
the engine running and the drive control lever pulled back, moving the engine control lever will increase and
reduce travel speed.
Reverse Travel: Release the drive control lever. Hold and pull against the handlebar with both hands to
reverse the machine towards you.
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS : Always reverse the machine carefully towards you. Do not
reverse with the drive control lever pulled back. Always switch off the engine before walking
backwards with the machine. Always ensure your footing is sound. Reverse only on level ground.
Never reverse on damp or wet grass or other slippery surfaces.
5.4.3 TURNING THE MACHINE
To make a wide turn : Steer the machine with the handlebar whilst travelling forward.
To make a tight turn : Reduce forward travel speed. Apply downward pressure on the handlebar to raise the
front roller just above ground level and steer the machine using the handlebar in the required direction.
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS : DO NOT raise the front of the machine excessively when
making a turn. NEVER raise the rear of the machine when the engine is running.
5.4.4 GROOMING WITH GRASS COLLECTION
The grassbox is designed to collect all the material removed from the surface during grooming. To achieve
the best collection performance, groom or scarify only in dry conditions. Dependent on the nature of material
removed, collection may be significantly impaired in wet or damp conditions. Wet moss and thatch can choke
the grooming reel and place an excessive load on the engine and transmission. Do not allow the grassbox to
overfill.
The grassbox can be emptied only by removal from the machine. CAUTION: When full, the grassbox is
heavy and should be lifted and carried with care to avoid strain or injury.

WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS : ALWAYS ensure that the engine speed is at the lowest
possible setting before releasing the engine stop lever and moving to the front of the machine to
empty the grassbox.
5.4.5 GROOMING WITHOUT GRASS COLLECTION
This practice is strongly discouraged, as it can result in the spread of unwanted vegetation such as moss,
and can result in the accumulation of large quantities of debris ahead of the Groomer with consequent
overload.
5.4.6 HEAVY GROWTH
CAUTION: Prevent damage – do not use the machine to groom grass with a height greater than 12.5mm.
Grass in excess of this height can choke the grooming reel and may place an excessive load on the engine
and transmission system.
Areas of heavy growth are ofter accompanied by deep thatch and this should be removed in stages. First
mow the area, reducing the height of cut and mow the area again as necessary until the required height is
achieved. Set the Groomer to an operating height of 3mm above surface level and experiment with the
results, gradually reducing the operating height until a modest amount of material is removed. Repeat this
process over several grooming sessions, reducing the operating height gradually.
5.4.7 MOVING THE MACHINE ACROSS NON-GRASSED AREAS
All Protea Groomers are fitted with smooth steel rear rollers and should not be moved across hard surfaces.
An optional wheeled cradle is available to enable them to be moved across non-grassed areas without
damage to the rollers.
To use the cradle, first switch off the engine. Remove the grassbox from the machine and set it aside. Place
the cradle behind the machine, touching the rear roller. Move to the rear of the machine, grip both handles
and tilt it forwards whilst steadying the cradle with one foot. Pull the Groomer back over the cradle until the
cradle is positioned between the rear roller and the soleplate. The welded tubes on top of the cradle are
designed to fit this gap ahead of the rear roller. The machine can now be pushed forwards to the desired
location. To remove the machine from the cradle, tilt it forward and push it until it is free of the cradle.
CAUTION: Prevent damage – do not leave the machine on the cradle without the grassbox attached, as it can
fall backwards – see Section 5 above.
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS: NEVER permit the engine to run when the machine is mounted
on the cradle.
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS: NEVER permit the engine to run when moving across non-
grassed areas.

6. SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CARRY OUT ANY OF THE
PROCEDURES IN THIS SECTION UNLESS YOU ARE SUITABLY QUALIFIED.
THE PROCEDURES IN THIS SECTION SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT ONLY BY SUITABLY QUALIFIED
MAINTENANCE ENGINEERS WITH APPROPRIATE TRAINING AND SUPERVISION AND WITH
WORKSHOP FACILITIES.
WARNING - PREVENT ACCIDENTS: ALWAYS stop the engine, allow hot parts to cool and
disconnect the spark plug lead before attempting to carry out cleaning or maintenance procedures on the
machine.
6.1 ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Your Rivendell Authorised Dealer will normally supply your new Protea Groomer fully assembled. Where
machines are supplied directly, comprehensive assembly instructions are provided. If for any reason you wish
to dismantle and reassemble the machine please follow the instructions in this section.
WARNING: ALWAYS keep machine in the upright position. NEVER tilt machine fully back on its
handles or damage can occur. Refer to Section 5 of this handbook for more information.
6.1.1 HANDLE ATTACHMENT
Fig.10 Fig.11
Loosen the nut on the upper fixing bolt through the antivibration mounts on each side of the machine (1) Figs.
10 and 11, and pull the lower handle section back.
Carefully raise the upper handle section, taking care to keep the central plate away from the exhaust deflector.
Ensure the clutch cable does not kink or become tight. Carefully feed the electrical connectors and cable
through the gap between the handle sections so that the cable does not become trapped between the sections
when the bolt is tightened (see fig.15). Fit the handle securing bolt (which is usually taped to the engine
handbook cover) and tighten, using screwdriver and spanner.
Move the handles to the desired position on the antivibration mounts and retighten the upper fixing nuts to the
bolts, checking tightness to ensure the fixings do not move in normal use (the handles are mounted flexibly
and some free play is normal).
Visually check underside of machine to ensure no foreign bodies can impede proper operation. Wearing
protective gloves, carefully turn the grooming reel to ensure it is free from obstructions and can rotate with
slight resistance. Visually check correct fitting of all nuts and bolts. Using spanner set, check that all are
securely fitted.