Smithco AER 8 Series Operating manual

Operators
60” & 78” AER 8 Aerifier
Serial#: AER60-069
AER78-069
July 2015
Parts & Service
Product Support: Hwy SS & Poplar Ave; Cameron WI 54822
1-800-891-9435 [e-mail]

Introduction Service Diagrams Parts Accessories Reference
CONTENTS
Introduction..........................................1-10
Introduction...................................................................................1-7
Introduction..................................................................................1
SafePractices.............................................................................2
Specifications ..............................................................................3
Accessories ................................................................................3
Setup .......................................................................................4-6
Operation.....................................................................................7
Service ........................................................................................ 8-11
Maintenance...........................................................................8-10
Storage...................................................................................... 11
Parts .......................................................................................... 12-33
AER8-001HydraulicTransportFrame........................................12
AER8-003Hydraulic Hose Kit....................................................13
AER8-002Electric/HydraulicLift System.............................. 14-15
AER8ChargingHarness............................................................16
3-PointHitch ............................................................................. 17
Turf QuakeTine5” Spacing................................................... 18-19
Turf QuakeTine 7.5” Spacing................................................ 20-21
All-StarTine 5” Spacing ........................................................ 22-23
All-StarTine 7.5” Spacing..................................................... 24-25
AerFineTine 3” Spacing........................................................ 26-27
AerFineTine 5” Spacing........................................................ 28-29
CoringTine ........................................................................... 30-31
RearRoller ........................................................................... 32-33
Reference.......................................................................................34
Decal List .................................................................................. 34
QuickReference Replacement Parts .........................................34

1
Introduction
Informationneeded whenordering replacementparts:
1. ModelNumber ofmachine
2. SerialNumber ofmachine
3. Nameand Part Number of part
4. Quantityof parts
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a SmithcoSmithco
SmithcoSmithco
Smithco product.
Readthis manual and all other manuals pertaining to theAer-8Aerifier carefully as they contain safety, operat-
ing, assembly and maintenance instructions. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment dam-
age.
Keepmanuals in a safe place after operator and maintenance personnel have readthem.Rightandleft sides are
fromthe operator’s seat, facingforward.
All SmithcoSmithco
SmithcoSmithco
Smithco machineshaveaSerialNumberandModel Number. Both numbers are needed when ordering
parts. The serial number plate on theAer-8 is located on the left top main frame.
For easy access record your Serial and Model numbers here.

2
Introduction
SAFEPRACTICES
1. It is your responsibility to read this manual and all publications associated with this machine.
2. Neverallow anyone to operate or service the machine or itsattachmentswithoutpropertraining and
instructions.Never allow minors to operate any equipment.
3. Learnthe proper use of the machine, the location and purpose of all thecontrols before you operate the
equipment.Workingwithunfamiliar equipment can lead to accidents.
4. Wear all the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to protect our head, eyes, ears, hands and
feet. Operate the machine only in daylight or in good artificial light.
5. Inspectthe area wheretheequipment will be used.Bewareof overhead obstructions andunderground
obstacles. Stay alert for hidden hazards.
6. Neveroperate equipment that is not in perfect working order or without decals, guards, shields, or other
protectivedevices in place.
7. Never disconnect or bypass any switch.
8. Whenworking around the tines, frame must be supported.
9. Neveruse your handsto search for oil leaks. Hydraulic fluidunder pressure can penetrate the skin and
cause serious injury.
10. Thismachinedemandsyour attention.To prevent loss of control or tipping of the vehicle:
A. Use extra caution in backing up the vehicle. Ensure area is clear.
B. Do not stop or start suddenly on any slope.
C. Reduce speed on slopes and in sharp turns. Use caution when changing directions on slopes.
D. Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden hazards.
E. Operateequipment up and down slopes, neveracrosstheface.
F. Before unhitching, lower jack stands and secure pins.
11. Before leavingoperator’s position foranyreason:
A Disengageall drives.
B. Lowerall attachments to the ground.
C. Shut engine offand remove the ignition key.
12. Keep hands, feet andclothing away from moving parts. Wait for all movement to stop before you clean,
adjustorservice the machine.
13. Keeptheareaof operation clear of all bystanders.
14. Nevercarry passengers.
15. Use parts and materials supplied by Smithco only. Do not modify any function or part.
16. Avoid sharp turns. Watch the tires of the tractor while turning to make sure they do not contact the tongue
oftheAer-8.
17. Shut down power source before attempting to unclog any part of the machine.
18 . Know whereand how deepall gas, water andelectrical lines are buried.
These machines are intended for professional maintenance on golf courses, sports turf, and any other
area maintained turf and related trails, paths and lots. No guaranty as to the suitability for any task is
expressed or implied.

3
Introduction
SPECIFICATIONS FORAER-8
WEIGHTSANDDIMENSIONS 60" 78"
Length 46" (117cm)
Width 63"(163cm) 81"(205cm)
Height 55"(140cm)
Weight 790lb (358 kg)
Weight(with transport frame)Empty - 1225 lb (556 kg) 1475lb(668 kjg)
Full - 2080 lb (943 kg) 2330lb (1056kg)
TIRES&WHEELS Two 18 x 9.5 x 8 Ribbed( 20 psi (1.4 bar))
BATTERY(Not Included) Automotive type 24F-12 Volt
BCIGroup Size 24
ColdCrankingAmps 900minimum
GroundTerminalPolarity Negative(-)
MaximumLength 10.25" (26 cm)
Maximum Width 6.88" (17 cm)
MaximumHeight 10" (25 cm)
FLUIDCAPACITY
HydraulicFluid 1.50 Gal (5.68 liter) MileMaster 303TractorHYDFluidor equivilent
TOWVEHICLE
For 3-Point on 60" must be able to support 1350lb (613 kg)
For 3-Point on 78" must be able to support 1850lb (839 kg)
Minimumdrawbar power of 20 HP (15 kW)
HeavyDuty Vehiclewith4wheelbrakes
Capableof 825 lb (374 kg) tongueweight.
ACCESSORIES
AER8-600 60" BASE UNIT
AER8-780 78" BASE UNIT
60" Reel 78" Reel
AER8-60R601 AER8-78R781 TurfQuakeFractureTineReelAssembly 5" Spacing
AER8-60R602 AER8-78R782 TurfQuake FractureTine ReelAssembly7.5"Spacing
AER8-60R603 AER8-78R783 All Star Sport Field Tine ReelAssembly 5" Spacing
AER8-60R604 AER8-78R784 All Star Sport Field Tine ReelAssembly 7.5" Spacing
AER8-60R605 AER8-78R785 AerfineThinBladeTineReelAssembly3" Spacing
AER8-60R606 AER8-78R786 AerfineThinBladeTineReelAssembly5" Spacing
AER8-60R607 AER8-78R787 CoringTine ReelAssembly
AER8-610 AER8-710 RearRollerAssembly
COMMON TRANSPORT
AER8-001 TransportFrameAssembly (mustalsoselectAer8-002 orAer8-003)
AER8-002 Electric/Hydraulic LiftAssembly forAer8-001 (Battery not included)
AER8-003 HydraulicHose Kit forAer8-001
AER8-004 3-Point HitchAssembly

4
Introduction
SETUP
TheAerifier arrives fromSmithco banded onapallet.
1. Towvehicle with 3-point hitch will be needed to transport theAerifier.
2. If transport package is ordered the tongue hitch will need to be in-
stalled.
3. Removetonguefrom pallet. Install the tongue and place jack in upright
position.
4. Crank the jack up so you can hook to tow vehicle.
5. Check the tire pressure. 20 psi (1.4 bar).
6. Check hydraulic fluid level in tank on tow vehicle or the electric/
hydraulic lift system if purchased. Install hydraulic fluid as needed.
7. Machineshould be greased before starting. SeeMaintenancepartof
manual.
8. Readoperating instructions before starting.
9. If using electrical /hydraulic lift system, battery must be installed.
(Batterynot included)
Use Automotivetype24F-12Volt
3-POINTHITCHATTACHMENT
Excessive weight in the ballast tank on the 3-point hitch models will result in the loss of tow
vehicle stability and steering capability. If this occurs front counter balancing on the tow
vehicle or Aer8-001 Transport Frame Assembly must be installed. Maximum ballast weight is
200 lbs. per ft. of machine width.
1. TheAer-8 must be able to "float". The tractor must be equipped with
a "float" position on the lower link arms. The "float" position will allow
the tines to "float" upwards when an obstruction such as a rock is
contacted.Thiswillreducetinedamage.
2. The Aer-8 must be held in an upright and level position by the jack
legs prior to hitching to a tractor.
3. Back up the tractor until the lower arm ball joints are inside the frame
lift brackets.
4. Install the proper class link pins and quick pins to hold both arms to
theframe.
5. Attachthe upper3-point arm between thecenter tabs on theframe
and hold in place with the proper class link pin and lynch pin.
6. Once attached to the 3-point, adjust the lower arms so there is no
excessivesway.
Tines are sharp. Keep hands and feet away from reel.
7. Lift theAer-8 hydraulically and then retract the jack legs.
8. Lower the Aer-8 hydraulically to the ground and adjust theupper 3-point arm until
theAer-8 column is perpendicular to the ground.
9. From the rear of the aerifier, add water to the ballast tank until the full depth of the
tine penetration is reached. The amount of water used is determined by soil type,
moisturecontentand amount of compaction present.

5
Introduction
SETUP
If the combined weight of the Aer-8 and full ballast exceeds the hydraulic lift capacity of the
tow vehicles 3-point hitch, then an Aer8-001 Transport Frame Assembly must be installed.
TRANSPORTASSEMBLYATTACHMENT
If you purchased a Aer8-001 Transport frameAssembly
with your base Aer-8 Aerator it will come installed with
the exception of the tongue.
1. Use the supplied bolts to install the tongue to the frame. There are 6
holes to bolt the tongue to. Use 4 holes that best support your tow
vehicle.
2. Install tongue with hose clamp on the top. Place swivel jack in the
upright position to supply support to the tongue until you have hooked
it up to you tow vehicle.
3. Check tire pressure of the tires (20 psi (1.4 bar)).
4. Hook the rear cylinder if not already done. There is a cylinder lockout attached to
the rear pivot arm. This is a security guard used when the cylinder needs to be
extendedfor a long period of time, such as maintenance.Placed over the cylinder
rod when it is fully extended and pin in place. When not in use return to rear pivot
arm.
ELECTRIC/HYDRAULICLIFTSYSTEM
If you purchased a Aer8-002 Electric/hydraulic Lift System
with your base Aer-8 Aerator it will come installed.
Battery not included.
1. Install anAutomotive type 24F-12 Volt battery into the Motor Box and
securewith the battery hold-down.
2. Fill the power unit with approximately 1.50 Gal (5.68 liter) MileMaster
303Tractor HYD Fluidorequivilent.
3. Hydraulic fittings and hoses should be attached to the cylinder. If not,
short hose to the top port and long hose goes to the bottom port.
4. Route the hoses through the trough below the ballast tank, secure in the hose clamps on the top of the
tongue.

6
Maintenance
SETUP
HYDRAULICHOSEKIT
If you purchased a Aer8-003 Hose Kit with your base Aer-8 Aerator it will come un-installed.
Quick Couplers from hose to tow vehicle are not included.
1. You will have to supply your
own quick couplers to
attach hydraulic hoses to
yourtow vehicle.
2. Hydraulicfittings and hoses
should be attached to the
cylinder. If not, connect one
end of hoses to the cylinder.
3. Routethe hoses through
thetroughbelowthe ballast
tank, secure in the hose
clamp on the top of the
tongue.
4. Connectopposite end to the
towvehiclewith quick
couplers(notprovided).
ROLLERADJUSTMENT
To adjust the down pressure on the roller, remove the hitch pin and rotate the roller assembly down to the next
notch. There are 4 adjustment notches to accom-
modatethetypeof down pressure you want.

7
Maintenance
OPERATION
In excessive stony conditions reduce operating speed.
1. AttachAer-8 to tow vehicle.
2. Fill ballast tank.
3. Checkfor any leaks before heading to
turf.
4. LowerAer-8intotheground so tine
penetrate the soil to desired depth.
5. Drivethe tow vehicle at speeds that are
safe.
6. Do Not make sharp turns with the tines
intheground.LiftAer-8 out of the ground
whenmaking sharp turns.
7. Compactedareas may have to be
aeratedmore than once.
8. WhenAer-8 is not in use, remove jack
pins, extend legs to maximum exten-
sion, replace jack pins.
CYLINDERLOCKOUTBAR
There is a cylinder lockout attached to the rear pivot arm. This is a security guard used when the cylinder needs
to be extended for a long period of time, such as for maintenance. Placed over the cylinder rod when it is fully
extended and pin in place. When not in use return to rear pivot arm for storage.

8
Maintenance
MAINTENANCE
Before servicing or making adjustments to machine, stop engine on tow vehicle and remove key
from ignition. Securely prop Aer-8 on jack stands.
Use all procedures and parts prescribed by the manufacturer.
Before operating this machine, become familiar with all controls and functions of this unit and the tow vehicle.
Alsocompleteallmaintenancerequirementsandread all safety warnings. By knowing both machines thor-
oughly,how it operates and by doing the prescribed maintenance steps,you can expect relatively trouble-free
operationforyears to come.
TOWVEHICLE
You will need a heavy duty vehicle with 4 wheel brakes and 3-point hitch. 3-point is standard on Aer-8Aerifier.
Transport FrameAssembly requires a clevis hitch and a 3/4diameter by 4" pin with some type of lock. Tow
vehiclemustbe capable of 825 lb tongue weight.
DAILYCHECKLIST
1. Check engine oil level in tow vehicle. Add as needed. DO NOTOVERFILL.
2. Check aerifier for loose or missing nuts, bolts, screws, etc., and tighten or replace as needed..
3. Check that all tines are in good condition.
4. Greasebearings daily after each use.
Iftransportframeassemblyininstalled:
5. Check hydraulic hoses for any leaks or loose connections.
6. Check tire pressure. 20 psi (1.4 bar)
7. Check electrical system for loose connections or frayed wiring, including battery cables. Replace any
faultyequipmentortightenifloose.
OPERATIONSAFETY
1. Before operation check to see that reel is rotating properly.
2. 3-point lift arms of tow vehicle must not be locked, but in floating position.
3. Always lift tines completely out of the soil before making sharp turns.
4. Donot aerate during extended periods of dryperiodswithoutirrigation.
5. When not in use, remove the jack pin and extend the legs to maximum extension, reinsert the jack pin
and secure with a clip.Always use jack stands for safe storage.
LUBRICATION
Use No. 2 General Purpose Lithium Base Grease and lubricate DAILY. The Aerifier has 2 grease fittings, one
on each pillow block on each side of the reel. When inserting grease, be careful not to ruin the seal, if this hap-
pens, replace the seal at once. Be sure to wipe grease fitting clean before injecting grease. Give only one or two
pumpsofgreaseateach lubrication.

9
Maintenance
MAINTENANCE
WHEELMOUNTINGPROCEDURE
1. Setpark brake on tow vehicle.Turnmachineoffand remove key.
2. Block one of the other wheels.
3. Loosennuts slightly on wheel to be removed.
4. Jackup machine being careful not to damage underside of machine.
5. Removenuts, removewheel.
5. Place new wheel on hub lining up bolt holes.
6. Torque nutsto 64-74 ft/lb(87-100Nm) using a cross pattern.Retorque after first 10hoursandevery200
hoursthereafter.
7. Lowermachine to ground and remove blocks and jack.
TIREPRESSURE
Cautionmustbe used when inflating a low tire to recommended pressure. Over inflating cancause tires to
explode.Tires on the machine should be 20 psi (1.4 bar). Improper inflation will reduce tire life considerably.
SERVICEINTERVALS
Beforeeach Use:
Lubricate all bearings on reel. Use No. 2 General Purpose Lithium Base Grease.
Checktow vehicle fluid levels.
Checkfluidlevel in power unit. Use 1.50 Gal (5.68 liter) MileMaster 303 Tractor HYD Fluid or equivilent.
After Each Use:
Check all tines for any cracks or breakage..
Inspect hydraulic system for leaks or damage.
Checkfor loose or missing hardware.
After10 hours:
Checktines for wear.
Retorque tine bolts to 80ft lbs.
Lubricateall grease fittings
After50 hours:
Checkwheel lug nuts torque to 64-74 ft/lb (87-100Nm).
Inspect tires - Check air pressure 20 psi
Retorque tine bolts to 80ft lbs.
After125 hours:
Lubricatewheel bearings.
After250 Hours:
Drainoil and fill power unit with approximately 1.25gallons(4,73l) Universal Trans-Draulic Oil.
Tire -Torque nuts to 64-74 ft/lb(87-100Nm) using across pattern.

10
Maintenance
MAINTENANCE
HILLSIDE OPERATION
Do NOT stop or start suddenly on any slope. Be especially cautious when changing direction. Do NOT operate on
slopes greater than 20°.
BATTERY
Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause personal injury. Do not allow flames, sparks or any ig-
nited object to come near the battery. When charging or working near battery, always shield your eyes and always pro-
vide proper ventilation.
Battery cable should be disconnected before using “Fast Charge”.
Charge battery at 15 amps for 10 minutes or 7 amps for 30 minutes. Do not exceed the recommended charging rate. If
electrolyte starts boiling over, decrease charging.
Always remove grounded (-) battery clamp first and replace it last. Avoid hazards by:
1. Filling batteries in well-ventilated areas.
2. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
3. Avoid breathing fumes when electrolyte is added.
4. Avoid spilling or dripping electrolyte.
Battery Electrolyte is an acidic solution and should be handled with care. If electrolyte is splashed on
any part of your body, flush all contact areas immediately with liberal amounts of water. Get medical
attention immediately.

11
Maintenance
STORAGE
1. Beforestoring clean machine thoroughly.
2. Check bolts and nuts, tighten as necessary.
3. Makeall repairs that are needed and remove any debris.
4. Store in a clean and dry area.
5. Makesurereel is on level ground.
6. Lower all 4 jack stands if Transport Assembly is not installed. Secure pins.
7. If transportAssembly is installed lower front jack stands and the trailer hitch on the tongue. Secure pins.
8. If roller is installed, it will act as the rear jacks. Lower roller to the lowest position then lower front jacks.
Securepins.
8. Only afterAer-8 is securely placed on a level surface should you remove from the tow vehicle.

12
Parts
AER8-001HYDRAULICTRANSPORTFRAME
AER8-001HYDRAULICTRANSPORTFRAME
REF# PART# DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
1 74-257 Hitch Pin 1
2 78-240 TrailerJack 1
3 74-241 Tongue 1
4 74-156 Decal,reflector 4
5 HB-34-10-300 Bolt 3/4 -10 x 3 4
HMB-34-10 Machine Bushing 3/4 x 10GA 4
HNTL-34-10 LockNut3/4-10 4
6 74-244 Axle 1
7 60-130 Tireand Wheel 2
60-130-01 Tire, 18 x 9.5 x 8 2
60-130-02 Wheel 2
8 74-254 CylinderStop 1
HB-38-16-275 Bolt 3/8 -16 x 2-3/4 1
HNW-38-16 Wingnut3/8-16 1
9 HCP-100-400 Clevis pin 1 x 4 2
HP-316-200 Cotter pin 3/16 x 2 2
10 78-225 HydraulicCylinder 1
18-185 3/8Elbow 2
11 13-652 Hose Clamp(partof tongue) 2
12 30-071 HubAssembly 2
60-268 LugBolt (part of 30-071) 10
HNAR-100-14 Slotted Hex Jam Nut 2
HP-18-150 CotterPin 2
Must use AER8-002 Electric/Hydraulic Lift or AER8-003 Hydraulic Hose kit

13
Parts
AER8-003HYDRAULICHOSEKIT
AER8-003HYDRAULICHOSEKIT
REF# PART# DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
1 18-185 3/8StraightThreadElbow (come withAER8-001) 2
2 74-246 HydraulicHose - 22' 2
Quick Couplers are not included.
AER-001 Hydraulic Transport Kit Required.

14
Parts
AER8-002ELECTRIC/HYDRAULICLIFTSYSTEM

15
Parts
AER8-002ELECTRIC/HYDRAULICLIFTSYSTEM
REF# PART# DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
1 74-274 15'ParallelCable System 1
2 18-446-01 Remote Switch 1
3 74-271 Multi-PolePower Connector 1
4 74-275 8' Parallel Cable System 1
5 HNW-38-16 Wing Nut 3/8 - 16 1
HW-38 Washer3/81
HWL-38 Lock Washer 3/81
6 18-445 CordConnectors 1
7 74-234 BatteryHold Down 1
15-020 Grip 1
HB-38-16-100 Bolt 3/8- 16 x 1 1
8 22-055 BatteryCable Red 1
9 74-231 Hinge 2
10 HB-516-18-075 Bolt 5/16 -18 x 3/46
HNFL-516-18 Flange Lock Nut 5/16 - 18 6
11 74-248 Motor BoxCover 1
8947-31 Trim Seal31" 2
25-277 Decal,Warning 1
25-373 Decal, 7" Smithco Star 1
12 15-437 Latch 2
13 HSM-10-32-112 MachineScrew #10-32x11/86
HNFL-10-32 Flange Lock Nut # 10 - 32 6
14 74-232 Hose - 72" 2
15 74-230 Hose - 17" 1
16 74-229 Hose - 16" 1
8947-74 Trim Seal74" 1
17 74-233 Motor Box 1
18 18-168 3/8StraightThread Elbow 2
19 12-546 PowerUnit 1
20 76-327 Battery Cable - Black 1
21 NotIncluded Battery-Automotive type 24F-12 Volt 1
22 13-749 Tab 1
23 74-273 60 AMP Fuse 2
12-566 FuseHolder 1
9042 1.50Gal (5.68 liter) MileMaster 303 Tractor HYD Fluidorequivilent

16
Parts

17
Parts
AER8-0043-POINTHITCHDRAWING
3-POINTHITCH PARTSLIST
REF# PART# DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
1 74-279 3-PointHitch Frame 1
2 HB-34-10-300 Bolt3/4- 10 x 3 6
HMB-34-10 Machine Bushing 3/4x 10GA 6
HNTL-34-10 Lock Nut 3/4- 10 6
3 74-282 Mount Brackets 2
4 HB-38-16-125 Bolt 3/8- 16 x 11/44
HNTL-38-16 Lock Nut 3/8- 16 4

18
Parts
AER-8"TURFQUAKE"5"SPACINGDRAWING