1. Introduction
The Heater PA99 Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine is designed to enhance batting and fielding skills for players of various ages. This machine utilizes Heater Lite Baseballs to deliver pitches at speeds up to 80 MPH, providing a consistent and reliable training experience. Its robust construction, adjustable pitch style, and portable design make it an ideal tool for individual or team practice sessions.
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective setup, operation, and maintenance of your Heater PA99 pitching machine. Please read all instructions carefully before use.
Image 1.1: The Heater PA99 Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine, demonstrating its pitching capability with two units shown.
2. Safety Information
Your safety is paramount. Adhere to all safety warnings and instructions to prevent injury or damage to the machine.
- Adult Supervision: Always ensure adult supervision when the pitching machine is in use, especially with children.
- Use Only Approved Balls: This machine is designed exclusively for use with Heater Lite Baseballs. Using regulation baseballs or other types of balls can cause damage to the machine and pose a serious safety risk.
- Maintain Safe Distance: Always maintain a safe distance from the machine during operation. Never stand directly in front of the pitching machine.
- Clear Area: Ensure the batting and fielding area is clear of all persons, pets, and obstructions before operating the machine.
- Power Connection: Connect the machine only to a grounded 110V AC outlet. Do not use extension cords that are not rated for outdoor use or are damaged.
- Inspect Before Use: Before each use, inspect the machine for any signs of damage, loose parts, or frayed wires. Do not operate if damaged.
- Do Not Modify: Never attempt to modify the pitching machine. Unauthorized modifications can lead to malfunction and void the warranty.
- Unplug When Not In Use: Always unplug the machine from the power source when not in use, during assembly, disassembly, or maintenance.
3. Package Contents
Before assembly, verify that all components are present in the package:
Image 3.1: Components included in the Heater PA99 Power Alley Lite Baseball Pitching Machine package.
- Pitching Machine Housing
- Tripod Base
- Height Pole
- Legs (for tripod)
- Support Stakes (optional for added stability)
- Owner's Manual (this document)
4. Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your pitching machine:
- Assemble the Tripod: Attach the three legs to the tripod base. Ensure they are securely locked into place for stability.
- Insert Height Pole: Insert the height pole into the center of the tripod base. Adjust to the desired height and secure with the locking mechanism.
- Attach Machine Housing: Mount the pitching machine housing onto the top of the height pole. Ensure it is firmly attached and stable.
- Positioning: Place the assembled machine on a flat, stable surface. For outdoor use, consider using the provided support stakes to anchor the tripod for additional stability, especially during strong pitches or windy conditions.
- Power Connection: Plug the machine into a standard 110V AC grounded outlet. Ensure the power cord is routed safely to avoid tripping hazards.
Image 4.1: Key features and setup considerations for the Heater PA99.
5. Operating Instructions
Operating the Heater PA99 is straightforward. Always ensure the safety guidelines are followed.
Image 5.1: Product highlights and controls of the Heater PA99.
- Power On/Off: Locate the On/Off switch on the machine housing. Flip the switch to the 'On' position to start the motor.
- Loading Balls: Carefully feed Heater Lite Baseballs into the ball feeder opening. Ensure balls are clean and dry.
- Adjusting Pitch Speed: The pitch speed is adjusted by changing the distance between the machine and the batter. Moving the machine closer to the batter will result in a higher effective pitch speed, while moving it farther away will decrease the effective speed. The machine can throw pitches up to 80 MPH with Lite Baseballs.
- Adjusting Pitch Height and Angle: Use the Height Adjustment Knob to modify the pitch height and angle. This allows for practice with various pitches, including grounders, line drives, and pop-flies.
- 360 Full Head Rotation: The pitching head features 360-degree rotation. This allows for versatile practice, including backspin pitches, curves, sliders, and fastballs for batting, as well as ground balls and pop-flies for fielding drills.
- Ball Feeder Outlet: The machine includes a ball feeder outlet for seamless integration with an optional Power Alley Automatic Ball Feeder (sold separately).
The Heater PA99 is suitable for kids, teens, and adults for hitting practice, fielding drills, and improving hand-eye coordination using Lite-Balls.
Image 5.2: Intended use and benefits of the Heater PA99.
Image 5.3: Examples of defensive drills possible with the Heater PA99, including fly balls, ground balls, and fastballs.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your pitching machine.
- Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the machine housing and components with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Ball Inspection: Ensure that the Heater Lite Baseballs used are clean and free of dirt or damage, as this can affect pitching consistency and machine wear.
- Safety Breaker: The machine is equipped with a Safety Breaker that protects the electronic circuit by resetting the circuit breaker in case of an overload. If the machine stops unexpectedly, check the safety breaker and reset it if tripped.
- Storage: When not in use, store the pitching machine in a dry, protected area, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Disassemble if necessary for compact storage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Heater PA99, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on. | No power, power switch off, or safety breaker tripped. |
|
| Inconsistent pitching speed or accuracy. | Incorrect ball type, dirty/damaged balls, unstable setup, or motor issue. |
|
| Machine makes unusual noises. | Obstruction in the pitching mechanism or internal component issue. |
|
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PA99 |
| Product Dimensions | 91.44 x 91.44 x 91.44 cm (approx. 36 x 36 x 36 inches) |
| Product Weight | 5.1 kg (approx. 11.2 lbs) |
| Power Source | 110V AC (Standard household outlet) |
| Ball Type Compatibility | Heater Lite Baseballs ONLY |
| Max Pitch Speed | Up to 80 MPH (with Lite Baseballs) |
| ASIN | B004JPC6UE |
The Heater PA99 is designed to work seamlessly with other Heater Sports accessories, such as the Power Alley 22' Home Batting Cage, Power Play Ball Feeder Remote, and Ball Vacuum/Baseball & Softball shagger.
Image 8.1: Complementary products for the Heater PA99.
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information and details regarding product support, please refer to the original owner's manual included in your product package or visit the official Heater Sports website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For technical assistance or replacement parts, please contact Heater Sports customer service directly. Contact information can typically be found in the included manual or on the manufacturer's website.
