Bruksanvisning - VERTI-DRAIN 7215

EU – DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Redexim Handel- en Exploitatie Maatschappij B.V. declares that this "EU - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY" is issued under their sole responsibility and belongs to the following product: VERTI-DRAIN® WITH MACHINE NUMBER INDICATED ON THE MACHINE AND IN THIS MANUAL, to which this declaration relates, complies with the provisions of:

• 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive
• And with the standards:
• ISO 12100-1:2010 Safety of machinery - General principles for design - Risk assessment and risk reduction
• ISO 13857:2019 Safety of machinery - Safety distances to prevent hazard zones being reached by upper and lower limbs
• ISO 4254-1:2015 Agricultural machinery - Safety - Part 1: General requirements
• ISO 4254-5:2018 Agricultural machinery - Safety - Part 5: Power-driven soil-working machines

Zeist, 03-01-2022

C.H.G. de Bree
Redexim Handel- en Exploitatie Maatschappij B.V.

UK – DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Redexim Handel- en Exploitatie Maatschappij B.V. declares that this "UK - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY" is issued under their sole responsibility and belongs to the following product: VERTI-DRAIN® WITH MACHINE NUMBER INDICATED ON THE MACHINE AND IN THIS MANUAL, to which this declaration relates, complies with the provisions of:

• S.I. 2008 No. 1597 HEALTH AND SAFETY The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
• And with the standards:
• ISO 12100-1:2010 Safety of machinery - General principles for design - Risk assessment and risk reduction
• ISO 13857:2019 Safety of machinery - Safety distances to prevent hazard zones being reached by upper and lower limbs
• ISO 4254-1:2015 Agricultural machinery - Safety - Part 1: General requirements
• ISO 4254-5:2018 Agricultural machinery - Safety - Part 5: Power-driven soil-working machines

Zeist, 03-01-2022

C.H.G. de Bree
Redexim Handel- en Exploitatie Maatschappij B.V.

FOREWORD

We wish you success with your VERTI-DRAIN purchase. For safe and long-lasting use of this VERTI-DRAIN, it is necessary to read and understand this manual. If the content is not understood, safe operation of the machine is not possible.

The VERTI-DRAIN machine is not a self-operating machine. It is the responsibility of each user to use the correct tractor. Each user must also check the tractor/VERTI-DRAIN combination regarding safety aspects such as noise level, operating instructions, and risk analysis.

The VERTI-DRAIN machine is intended solely for lawns or areas where grass can grow.

On the next page, general safety instructions are presented first. Anyone using the machine must know and be able to apply these. A registration card is included, which should be returned to make a claim later. This manual provides many instructions, numbered sequentially. Follow these instructions in order. If a symbol is used, it refers to safety instructions. If a @ symbol is used, it means a tip and/or a note.

All information and technical specifications provided at the time of this document's publication are the latest. Design specifications may change without notice.

This document is a translation of the original operating instructions. Upon request, the original operating instructions are available in Dutch.

WARRANTY TERMS

ALL VERTI-DRAIN PRODUCTS ARE DELIVERED WITH A WARRANTY AGAINST MATERIAL DEFECTS.

THIS WARRANTY IS VALID FOR A PERIOD OF 12 MONTHS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE.

VERTI-DRAIN WARRANTIES ARE SUBJECT TO THE "GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR SUPPLY OF PLANT AND MACHINERY FOR EXPORT, NUMBER 188", ISSUED BY THE UNITED NATIONS ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR EUROPE.

REGISTRATION CARD

For your records, copy the information from the registration card into the table below.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Always use the VERTI-DRAIN machine with the correct tractor as described in the technical specifications.
2. The user is responsible for a safe TRACTOR/VERTI-DRAIN combination. All this must be tested for noise, safety, risk, and operating comfort. Operating instructions should also be developed.
3. The VERTI-DRAIN machine is intended solely for lawns.
4. Every user of the VERTI-DRAIN machine must know the contents of the manual.
5. Inspect the area where the VERTI-DRAIN machine will be used. Remove loose obstacles, avoid unevenness.
6. NEVER leave the tractor while the engine is still running.
7. Keep other persons at a minimum distance of 4 meters from the VERTI-DRAIN machine.
8. Dress appropriately. Wear sturdy shoes with steel toe caps, long trousers, tie up long hair, and avoid loose clothing.
9. Never force the VERTI-DRAIN machine. A clear sign of forcing the machine is when the front roller bounces off the ground and the machine feels unstable to handle.
10. Check for loose bolts/nuts in the VERTI-DRAIN machine once a week.
11. If protective covers and self-adhesive safety labels are missing, the VERTI-DRAIN machine must not be used.
12. NEVER crawl under the VERTI-DRAIN machine; if necessary, tip the VERTI-DRAIN machine over.
13. During maintenance, adjustment, and repairs, always turn off the tractor engine, disconnect the PTO shaft, jack up the VERTI-DRAIN machine, and secure it against rolling/sliding away.
14. Use only original VERTI-DRAIN accessories/pins for the machine's safety.
15. Do not use the VERTI-DRAIN machine in darkness, during heavy rain/storm, frost, or on slopes exceeding 20°.
16. Also, read the instructions for use and maintenance of the PTO shaft in advance. This component has its own brand name.
17. Ensure you have an overview of repairs.
18. In case of any modification to the machine, the CE marking becomes void, and the user/seller must reapply for certification.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A table of contents is provided in the original document, listing sections from EU Declaration of Conformity to Mini Needle Tines, with corresponding page numbers.

1.0 TECHNICAL DATA

Model: 7215

2.0 SETTING UP FOR USE, LIFTING THE MACHINE FROM THE PALLET

The machine is placed vertically on the pallet. To remove the pallet and place the machine horizontally on the ground, follow these steps (see Figure 1):

1. Open the rear hatch.
2. Connect a cable to the lifting point. Check that the cable and crane/forklift can handle at least 2000 Kg (5000 lbs).
3. Lift the machine and pallet 50 mm (2 inches) off the ground.
4. Remove the pallet by sliding it over the lower bolts of the three-point hitch. Do not crawl under the machine.
5. Carefully lower the machine until the lower parts of the three-point hitch contact the ground.
6. Lower the machine further so it can rotate on the front roller.
7. Carefully lower the machine until it rests on the front and rear rollers.
8. Connect the machine to a tractor. Use a suitable tractor, see specifications.
9. Lift the machine off the ground.
10. Remove the rear roller locking pins. Insert pins into hole 4.
11. Lower the machine to the ground and adjust the angle to 90 degrees with the top link. This angle is very important, see below.
12. Adjust the tractor's stabilizers for the lift arms so that lateral movements are limited to approx. 100 mm (4 inches).
13. Attach the pin angle adjustment lever to the machine (supplied in a box with the pins).
14. Assemble the pins. Apply a little grease to the shaft.
15. PTO shaft length, see 3.1.
16. When removing the machine from the pallet, remove the upper cover on the gearbox and replace it with the supplied ventilation cap.

3.0 SAFETY MARKING

Safety labels are located on both sides of the machine. These safety labels must always be clearly visible and legible and must be replaced if damaged (Figure 2).

Figure 2 Description: The figure shows various safety labels and their meanings:

• Label 911.280.402: "ALWAYS turn off the tractor engine and PTO during maintenance, modifications, and repairs. Secure the assembly against driving away / sliding."
• Label 900.280.402: "Keep a distance of at least 4 meters when the machine is in use, except for the operator in the tractor. No individuals should be in the risk area around the machine during operation, as there is a risk of personal injury from moving parts. Machine users must have carefully read the user manual before operating the machine."
• Label 900.280.404: "Ensure no body parts are pinched when opening the rear cover."
• Label 900.260.420: "The machine's safe working area is up to a maximum of 500 RPM PTO speed."
• Label 911.280.404: "Il coperchio posteriore deve sempre essere chiuso e intatto durante il funzionamento della macchina." (The rear cover must always be closed and intact during machine operation.)

4.0 PTO SHAFT

The PTO shaft is a very important component. It drives the machine from the tractor and ensures safe operation when installed and maintained correctly. The PTO shaft has its own CE certification. Read the PTO shaft manual attached to the shaft itself. For specific adjustments, refer to the details on the PTO side in the parts book. Do not exceed the specified values. This can lead to an unsafe situation and overload the machine, causing damage.

Figure 2 Description: Diagram showing PTO shaft dimensions A and B, with a minimum overlap of 250mm (9.8").

4.1 PTO SHAFT LENGTH

The length of the PTO shaft is very important. If it is too long, the tractor's and/or VERTI-DRAIN's transmission can be damaged. If the overlap length of the tubes is less than 250 mm (9.8 inches), the PTO can be damaged.

* The length changes when the machine is lifted or if a different tractor is used.

To adapt the PTO shaft length to a specific tractor, follow these steps (see Figure 3):

1. Measure the distance, A, between the tractor's PTO and the VERTI-DRAIN's PTO coupling, from groove to groove, when the machine is on the ground at the correct angle and connected to the tractor.
2. Measure the PTO shaft length, B, in its shortest position from the locking pin to the locking bolt.
3. Separate the PTO shaft into two parts and remove the safety guards from both ends.
4. Both tubes and the ends of the safety guards must be shortened by: (B - A) + 125 mm (4.9 inches).
5. Deburr all parts, apply a little grease, and reassemble the parts.
6. Mount the PTO shaft slipping clutch onto the VERTI-DRAIN transmission. * The torque for the locking bolt should be 80 Nm and must be checked every 40 hours.
7. Connect the other end of the PTO shaft to the tractor's PTO.
8. Check the overlap of the tubes.
9. Never use the machine with a damaged PTO safety guard. Replace the guard first.

4.2 USING THE PTO

For correct PTO operation, the following must be checked:

1. During use, the joint angles must never exceed 30 degrees.
2. The joints must always be aligned with each other.
3. The tube overlap must always be at least 250 mm (9.8 inches).
4. Never use the machine with a damaged PTO safety guard.
5. For lubrication, see section 13.0 Maintenance.

5.0 ADJUSTING WORKING DEPTH

The working depth can be adjusted with the machine in a raised position, see Figure 4. Loosen the clamping handles 1 on both sides of the machine. Then, turn the spindles 3 inwards or outwards. Each turn is 4 mm (0.160"). The decal (2) on the side of the machine shows the depth setting. Once the correct working depth is reached, tighten the clamping handles 1 again.

• @ Never adjust one side more than 4 turns. Compensate the other side first before proceeding.
• @ The values on the decals are only valid when using 250 mm (10 inch) long pins. When using shorter pins, subtract the difference to 250 mm (10 inches) from the actual decal value.
• @ Clean and spray the spindle with dirt-repellent oil every 100 hours to prevent dirt from adhering to the nut.

6.0 ADJUSTING PIN ANGLE

All pins can be set simultaneously using 2 handles 1, located on either side of the machine, see Figure 5. Raise the machine off the ground and loosen the clamping handle 2 on both sides of the machine. Adjust the angle by turning handle 1. The angle can be read on decal 3. Then, tighten clamping handle 2 again.

• @ An angle of 90 degrees provides almost no bending. This is necessary for hollow pins and recommended for "needle" pins.
• @ Angles from 90 to 65 degrees provide more bending. This is recommended for solid pins and depends on the soil condition, pin size, and user preference.
• @ At 90 degrees, the pins only enter the ground vertically if the machine is installed correctly. If this is not done correctly, a force F may occur, see Figure 5. This can damage the machine.
• @ The fully assembled drawbar length should be 415.0 mm (16.340 inches), which can be set using the calibration spacers, see the spare parts page.

7.0 TRAVEL SPEED

The hole spacing D, Figure 6, in the direction of travel depends on the travel speed. The VERTI-DRAIN does not require a creeper gear. However, if the user desires a small hole spacing, they must be able to drive slowly enough, which is determined by the tractor.

The gearbox has three positions: 1, 2, and 3. Reduce the PTO speed to 400 rpm in 3rd gear; damage may occur.

The PTO shaft must have an input speed R of no more than 500 rpm. If hard objects are expected, this speed must be reduced.

With coarser pins, attachments, or at maximum pin angle, the pin holders may float in the lift. In this case too, the speed R must be reduced so that the pin holders do not backlash. We recommend always using 400 rpm at the PTO.

The table in Figure 6 shows the relationship between travel speed, gearbox position, and hole spacing. Knowing the tractor's travel speed at 500 PTO rpm allows calculation of the hole spacing for the various gearbox positions.

• @ If your VERTI-DRAIN is not correctly mounted behind the tractor, see Figure 1. Different angles of the PTO shaft can cause vibrations in the machine's drive system. These vibrations can damage both the machine and the holes in the ground.
• @ If it is difficult to engage another gear, turn the crankshaft slightly.
• @ If the PTO shaft is shortened incorrectly, or if a different tractor is used, this can put extra strain on the gearbox. This can eventually damage the gearbox or affect its position. Damage may occur.
• * The tractor engine must be switched off when changing the gearbox position.

8.0 START PROCEDURE

The start procedure is VERY important. If not performed according to the following description, it can lead to serious machine damage.

The start procedure is as follows, see Figure 7:

1. Drive to the location where you want to start.
2. Lower the machine until the lowest pins are almost touching the ground.
3. Set the tractor engine to approx. 1200 rpm.
4. Engage the correct gear and drive forward (A).
5. Engage the PTO shaft (B).
6. While driving forward, CAREFULLY lower the machine into the ground while it is ROTATING (C).
7. Increase the PTO shaft speed to the permitted maximum value.

Stopping the machine:

1. Reduce engine speed to approx. 1200 rpm.
2. Lift the machine off the ground.
3. Disengage the PTO shaft as soon as the pins are out of the ground.
4. Lift the machine further until the pins are at least 120 mm above the ground.
5. Drive to the next location, starting again with the procedure described above.

• @ It is absolutely necessary to follow the above procedures. If the machine is placed on the ground without the PTO shaft rotating, this can lead to serious machine damage.
• @ The machine must be lowered CAREFULLY.
• @ Be careful when reversing.

During operation, the front roller must rest firmly on the ground. If the machine is unstable, install other pins or adjust the working depth.

• @ The machine will be damaged if insufficient stability is not addressed. The machine is NOT protected against prolonged overload.
• @ NEVER reverse while the pins are in or near the ground.
• @ Do not use a hydraulic top link.

9.0 USING THE VERTI-DRAIN

Before the VERTI-DRAIN can be used at a specific location, the following must be determined:

1. Are there any loose objects on the field? Remove them first.
2. Are there any slopes? The maximum slope for a VERTI-DRAIN is 20 degrees. Always drive from top to bottom.
3. Are there any cables/pipes in the ground? If so, find out how deep they are and set the machine's working depth to 60% of that depth.
4. Are there any hard objects in the ground? If so, use the VERTI-DRAIN with a low PTO speed and adjust the working depth.
5. Is there a risk of flying debris, e.g., golf balls, that could distract the operator? If so, the VERTI-DRAIN must not be used.
6. Is there a risk of sinking or sliding? If so, use of the VERTI-DRAIN must be postponed.
7. If the ground is frozen or very wet, postpone the work until conditions are better.
8. If the ground is very compacted, use shorter, thinner pins to penetrate or adjust the working depth.

10.0 TRANSPORTING THE VERTI-DRAIN

The user is responsible for towing the VERTI-DRAIN behind a tractor on public roads. This depends entirely on the tractor. In terrain, a maximum speed of 12 km/h applies. Considering the weight of the VERTI-DRAIN, a higher speed can be dangerous for the operator and bystanders. Damage to the machine can also occur due to vibrations that may occur at higher speeds.

* At least 20% of the tractor's weight must rest on the front axle when the machine is lifted.

11.0 DISCONNECTING THE VERTI-DRAIN

The machine can be disconnected from the tractor as follows:

1. Open the rear hatch.
2. Turn the crankshaft until the two central pin holders to the right/left of the gearbox are in their position.
3. Turn all pin holders upwards.
4. Place the machine on a firm surface with both rollers.
5. Block the rear roller guide with pin 3, see Figure 1.
6. Block the front and rear rollers so they cannot roll away.
7. Remove the push rod.
8. Disconnect the PTO shaft on the tractor side.
9. Disconnect the drawbars from the VERTI-DRAIN.
10. * Turn off the tractor engine when working around the machine.
11. * For long-term storage, the pins should NOT be folded up, to preserve the life of the shock absorber springs.

12.0 PROBLEM ANALYSIS

A table detailing common problems, their causes, and solutions is provided:

13.0 MAINTENANCE

A maintenance schedule is provided:

14.0 TECHNICAL INFORMATION

The Verti-Drain is not a complicated machine. Some technical points will be explained. If you have further questions, contact your dealer for assistance.

Figure 8 Description: Diagram showing various torque specifications for bolts and nuts, and angle settings for the machine.

14.1 TORQUE RESISTANCE

Figure 8 shows the torque values for the most important bolts/nuts. For bolts/nuts for which no torque values are given, tighten them to the same values as bolts/nuts of the same size shown in the figure. If bolts/nuts loosen on their own, Loctite can be applied.

14.2 CRANKSHAFT

Figure 9 describes how the crankshaft is assembled. See also the spare parts page. On model 7215, the angle between the handles on the gearbox should be 45 degrees.

14.2.1 REPLACING OIL SEAL

Figure 9 shows the crankshaft from above. To replace an oil seal on the transmission, follow these steps:

1. Loosen nuts II and IV, which may be tight due to Loctite. A little heat can help.
2. Remove the large end V, after removing the large end pin XI.
3. Remove cover III by unscrewing all bolts/nuts.
4. Slide crankshaft VI away from the gearbox by gently tapping the center with a hammer until the large end pin VII is released.
5. Rotate crankshaft VI and slide the large end IX away from the large end pin VII.
6. Remove handle X after marking its position and remove nut VIII.
7. Pull out the oil seal with a screwdriver.
8. Clean the area and install new oil seals.
9. Clean handle X and the splined shaft. Install handle in the correct position.
10. Fill the area under the locking plate (between the splines and the handle) with liquid silicone paste before installing the nut/new locking plate.
11. Install a new locking plate and nut VIII. Use Loctite for the nut as well.
12. Reassemble the other parts in reverse order.
13. If the crankshaft seems loose, see also 14.2.3.

14.2.2 REPLACING A CRANKSHAFT WITH BEARING

A crankshaft needs to be replaced when it is cracked or when the nut on the large end frequently loosens. Either the crank bearing, the crank bearing fit, or the large end bolt holes are damaged. Replace the crankshaft/bearing as soon as possible to avoid further damage to other parts. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the large end bolt nuts IV (or II) from the two bolts connected to the crankshaft.
2. Remove the large end bolts so the large end can be pulled out. (Note: this cannot be done with the large end (bolt) on the side of the gearbox).
3. Remove crank bearing covers III.
4. Gently tap the crankshaft IV and bearing sideways out of the frame by striking the center of the crankshaft with a hammer.
5. Carefully remove the bearing from the crankshaft.
6. After replacing the crankshaft and/or bearing, reassemble the parts in the same sequence as they were removed. Use Loctite in the places indicated in Figure 8.
7. If the crankshaft runs stiffly, see 14.2.3.

14.2.3 CRANKSHAFT DE-TENSIONING

If parts of the crankshaft have been replaced, the crankshaft may run stiffly. This can be caused by pre-tension, which must be released. Do this as follows, see Figure 9:

1. Tap the center of the crank towards the gearbox, alternating left and right, with a hammer.
2. Check if the crank moves in the bearing and continue until it is seated.
3. Repeat this procedure with the next crank until all cranks are seated and the crankshaft runs more smoothly.
4. @ After crankshaft repair, regularly check if nuts have loosened, see 12.0.
5. @ Do not mount the crankshafts on the wrong side of the machine. See the spare parts page for the correct part number.

14.3 ADJUSTING ELEMENT

If an element is no longer aligned with adjacent elements, this can be corrected as follows (see Figure 8):

• Loosen the four bolts/nuts, A, connecting the crankshaft to the element.
• Loosen the two bolts, A, that fasten the element to the main frame.
• Try to adjust the element by moving it sideways until it aligns with the adjacent elements.
• Start tightening all bolts/nuts.
• @ Elements can shift if the machine is overloaded.
• @ Always align elements when a crankshaft has been replaced, so that extra tension is not created in the element mounting.
• @ Any extra tension in the element mounting will shorten the bearing life and may also damage other parts.

15.0 OPTIONS, CORE CATCHER

An easy-to-mount core catcher is available for the 7215. Part number is 211.721.006.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (see Figure 11):

• Preparation of Verti-Drain:
• Mount bolt eyes 24 onto the main frame 26.
• Mount bushings 15 with the new, longer screws 18 onto the rear roller bracket.
• @ These bushings can always remain on the machine.
• @ Use washers 16 to align the bushings with the rear roller scraper bracket.
• Mounting the core catcher itself:
• Mount the brackets 17 with bolt eyes 9 and nuts 10/11 onto the main collection plate 1.
• Mount the side panels 2/3 with screws 7 and bushings 8 onto the main collection plate 1.
• Mount the rubber strip 12 with screws 13, washers 14, and nuts 6 onto plate 1.
• Mount all leaf springs 4, correctly oriented, onto the main plate 1.
• @ For now, choose the middle hole for screws 7. This position can be changed later.
• @ Side panels 2/3 should not be fixed but be movable around bushings 8.

USE:

• When the core catcher and Verti-Drain are properly prepared, the core catcher bracket 17 can be slid (X) over the bushings 15. Secure with R-pins 19. With the core catcher mounted, the rear roller is free from the ground. If it has insufficient clearance, the rear roller must NOT be removed (its weight is needed); instead, lift it by removing a bearing bolt. The rear roller bracket should float with the machine. Therefore, do not lock them with pin 10 (Figure 2).
• Mount the chain 20 with two D-links onto bracket 17 and bolt eye 24. Ensure the length is the same on the right and left. Provide approximately 100 mm (4") of play so that the core catcher can follow the ground properly and is lifted when the machine is raised. When the machine's working depth is set, the chain length must be checked again.
• The rubber strip 12 is the first and most important scraper that holds the cores. It should float approximately one core diameter above the ground; this can be adjusted by using other holes for screws 7.
• The leaf springs 4 act as fine cleaners, as they can individually follow the ground contours. The pressure can be adjusted by tilting the main collection plate 1 forward or backward (Y). This is achieved by adjusting the position of the upper and lower bolt eyes 9 on the main plate 1.
• The core catcher can collect cores over a certain sweep length. This length depends on the number and size of the cores.
• If the surface is not cleaned properly, check the clearance of the rubber strip 12 and the tension of the leaf spring 4. Extra weight on top of the core catcher can also help.

15.1 OPTIONS, GRASS HOLDER KIT

A grass holder kit can be used if the lawn appears loose. Two kits are available for the 7215: one with fingers aligned with holes of 12 mm (½") in the pin holder (part no. 211.721.002) and one with fingers aligned with holes of 18 mm (¾") (part no. 211.721.004).

The Verti-Drain 7215 is standardly equipped with a pre-mounted main beam that can carry the grass holder fingers.

The kit consists of a set of grass holder fingers for 12 or 18 mm pins and their mounting hardware in the form of nuts and screws.

ASSEMBLY OF THE GRASS HOLDER KIT (see Figure 12):

• The ordered kit includes 4 or 5 plates. Mount the plates with screw 3 and nut 2 onto the main beam 1. Use the elongated holes of the plates to align them with the pins.
• If the fingers bend over time, they can be mounted backwards.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

• If the tines are no longer centered relative to the machine, they may hit the sides of the springs. Realign the pin holders.
• If the pins hit the front of the hole (during operation): check the drawbar length.
• * Never crawl under the machine. Keep the machine well blocked.

15.2 OPTIONS, PINS

The pins are very important for the machine to function correctly. Several types of pins are available for this machine; see the spare parts pages for a complete overview. Pins can be divided into two categories: solid and hollow. It is recommended to use original pins as they are fully adapted to the machine.

Figure 13 shows various pin combinations. The pin holders have holes with dimensions 3 x 12 mm (1/2 inch) and 2 x 18 mm (3/4 inch). The locking bolt B can be tightened to 40 Nm (30 lbs.ft.). If the pins slip out of the adapter, grind a flat area on the pin.

15.2.1 SOLID PINS

Solid pins break up hard-packed soil. The angle of the pins (see section 6.0) determines the amount of "kick-up" in the soil. Increasing the angle from 90 degrees to 75 degrees increases the "kick-up". At a 90-degree setting, there is practically no pin movement in the soil, and at 75 degrees, maximum pin movement in the soil is achieved.

When pins are new, they may disturb the turf, especially if the root system is weak. First, clean the pins by hand or use the machine for 10 minutes on another unworked area.

If the root system is weak, try not to penetrate the soil much deeper than the root system. Adjust the working depth until the penetration is about 75 mm (3 inches) deeper than the root system's depth. This allows the roots to grow deeper. Penetrate deeper on the next pass. Using this method prevents turf damage and results in a healthy root system.

It is recommended to use solid pins with the sharp tip facing the front roller. This provides the greatest effect of the pins in the soil. However, with weak turf, it may be better to turn the sharp tip towards the rear roller.

The rear roller must not be locked.

15.2.2 HOLLOW PINS

Hollow pins can displace soil. Different sizes are available; see the spare parts manual. The side opening should face the rear of the machine.

It is important that the pin angle is set to 90 degrees with hollow pins. Pin movement in the soil is minimal, and the operation creates clean, fine holes. If the pin moves in the soil, hollow pins may break.

If a top dressing needs to be applied, use the Verti-Drain first, remove the cores, and then apply the sand.

If a lot of loose soil is created when using hollow pins, reduce the speed or water first. Loose soil can wear down the machine.

If the turf is damaged, first use solid pins to create a healthy root system or adjust the working depth.

The rear roller can be lifted and locked with the locking pin so it does not crush the cores. If the machine becomes unstable and the rear roller starts to vibrate, it is better to keep it on the ground.

If hollow pins get blocked, it means the soil is (very) compacted, and solid pins should be used first to penetrate the soil. Watering can help, as can adjusting the working depth.

15.3 OPTIONS, NEEDLE PINS

With needle pins, you can create many small holes that are almost invisible. Two versions are available; see Figure 14.

15.3.1. (STANDARD) NEEDLE PINS

A special adapter is required to mount 6 needle pins per pin head onto the machine, see Figure 14, left. The adapter blocks are screwed to the bottom of the pin holder with two screws D. The marking (drilled center points) should point towards the center of the machine.

The adapter can hold solid or hollow needle pins. The 6 pins per adapter block are secured with a screw. Since there are two rows, the screws should be mounted from the front and back, in the part with the longest threaded hole. The tightening torque for these screws is a maximum of 40 Nm (30 lbs.ft.).

It is recommended to set the machine at 90 degrees to create neat, straight holes. The machine's height adjustment must be slightly adjusted to compensate for the adapter block.

If the needle pins tear the turf, some pins can be removed.

The part number for a complete adapter block, without pins, is 9990206 (8 are required for a full set).

15.3.2. MINI NEEDLE PINS

Mini needle pins (solid) require a different adapter block. The two pins D (Figure 14, right) fit into hole C, 12 mm (½"), in the machine's standard pin holder.

Per adapter block, there are 3 rows with 7 holes each. Thus, we can mount 21 mini needle pins per block.

If a fully mounted block damages the turf, the number of pins should be reduced, as shown in I, II, and III. Also, try adjusting the working depth.

All pins are mounted with screw pins B. The middle row's screw pin can only be accessed when the outer row has been removed.

Do not use any "impact effect". Set the machine to 90 degrees. All (drilled) markings should point to the same side of the machine.

The part number for a complete block, without pins, is 9990212 (8 are required for a full set). The part number for the solid pin is 9990054 (167 are required for a full set).