TRACMASTER LA25B1 Camon Lawn Aerator Instruction Manual

CAMON LA25B1 Lawn Aerator
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Manufactured by Tracmaster Ltd

Before commissioning the machine, read operating instructions and observe warning and safety instructions.

CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator

Manufacturer Details
Tracmaster Ltd
Units 6-7 Winterpick Business Park
Hurstpierpoint Road
Wineham
Henfield BN5
9BJ UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: +44 (0)1444 247689
www.tracmaster.co.uk info@tracmaster.co.uk

Machine Details

Model: CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator
Serial No: B11 – 11111
Engine Serial No: G A A A A – 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Purchase Date: D D – M M – Y Y Y Y
Supplier:

Introduction

Welcome

Welcome to Tracmaster and thank you for choosing CAMON.
We are confident that you will be more than happy with your machine.
Your machine is covered by a comprehensive warranty. However, the lifespan of your CAMON machine depends on a number of factors. It is important that you read this manual carefully and follow the instructions regarding operation, maintenance, and care.

About This Manual

It is crucial that you read this manual carefully and understand it. Reading and understanding this manual should prevent you from operating the LA25 incorrectly and so extend the life of the machine.

This manual also contains important safety information about your machine. You must observe all safety instructions at all times. CAMON machines are often updated and improved so models may vary due to differences in specifications.

Any illustrations, descriptions, specifications, and technical data in this manual is correct at the time of printing.

For any questions relating to this manual please contact us.
During office hours (UK) we can be contacted on:

Phone: +44 (0)1444 247689
Email: info@tracmaster.co.uk
Website: www.tracmaster.co.uk 

IMPORTANT!
READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY

What the Machine is Designed For

Applications

The CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator has been designed by Tracmaster for aerating grass lawns and other grass areas.
The benefit of aerating a lawn is that it allows air, water and nutrients to reach the roots of the grass, relieves soil compaction, and removes unwanted sub-surface thatch.
The tines of the CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator are designed to be used only on grassed areas where the surface soil is more than 10cm in depth. Prior to operation of the LA25, the operator MUST test the depth of the soil.
This can be done simply with a garden fork. DO NOT use the CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator for any alternative use other than aerating grass areas. Operating the machine on non-grass surfaces such as concrete or tarmac will cause damage to the LA25 Lawn Aerator. After aerating DO NOT expose the lawn to high temperatures or drought.
Irrigate the lawn if necessary to ensure that the grass benefits from its treatment.

Specifications

ENGINE

Engine Manufacturer| Honda
Engine Model| GX160
Engine Type| 4-stroke OHV, single cylinder
Net Engine Power| 3.6kW (4.8hp) @ 3600rpm
Engine Shaft Size| ¾” straight
Spark Plug| BPR6ES (NGK) / W20EPR-U (DENSO)
Spark Plug Gap| 0.70 – 0.80mm
Engine Ignition Type| Recoil
Cold Start System| Choke
Fuel Tank Capacity| 3.1 litres
Fuel Type| Unleaded
Fuel Consumption| 1.4 litres per hour @ 3600rpm
Air Filter| Paper
Rated Engine Speed| 3600rpm
Working RPM| 2800rpm
Engine Oil| 10w/30 API SJ or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity| 0.6 litres
Dry Weight| 15.1kg

The power rating of the engine indicated in this table is the net power output tested on a production engine for the engine model and measured in accordance with SAE J1349 at a specified rpm.

MACHINE

Unpacking and Assembly

Major Components Diagram

① Operating Lever
② Throttle
③ Tine Control Lever
④ Handlebar Locking Pins
⑤ Engine| ⑥ Gearbox
⑦ Wheels
⑧ Tine Lifting Board
⑨ Tine Holder
⑩ Tines
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Unpacking Instructions

The LA25 Lawn Aerator is usually delivered on a pallet and covered with pallet wrap. Carefully remove any outer packaging. Locate and remove any cable ties or straps that secure the Aerator to the pallet. Swivel the folded top part of the handlebar until it locates into position. Place the handlebar locking pins into the holes to lock the handlebars in the operating position. Push the machine forward safely and gently off the pallet. Dispose of the pallet and other packing material. Recycle where possible.

Safety Instructions ­ Pre-Operation

Basic Safety Instructions

Before starting the machine, read and understand these operating instructions.

Main Components and Operating Elements

Below is a description of the main components of the LA25 Aerator and how they operate.

Engine and Drive

The Honda GX160 (Fig. 1) is a four stroke engine that Fig. 1 runs on standard unleaded fuel.
The engine is air cooled and therefore it is important that the grille covering the recoil rope is kept clear from debris.
The engine air filter cleans the air sucked in by the engine. A clogged air filter will reduce performance.
The engine is fitted with a fuel on/off lever and a choke lever. Read the engine operating instructions to understand the operation of these levers.

Operating Lever

The LA25 Aerator tines are engaged by using the lever located underneath the top of the handlebar (Fig. 2).
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A TWO STAGE LEVER. THE GREY BUTTON MUST BE DEPRESSED BEFORE THE MAIN LEVER CAN BE PULLED UP.
Once the drive has been engaged it will Fig. 2 transfer the engine power through a gearbox, to the tine rods that will rotate. The surface penetrating tines are held at the end of each tine rod and will be pushed into the ground before being withdrawn as the tine rods rotate.

Height Adjustment

The depth of the tine penetration of LA25 Aerator is altered by changing the position of the back axles.
Each back axle has three holes by which it can be attached to the main chassis frame.
Attaching the axles using the lowest position holes has the effect of moving the tines closer to the ground and increasing the depth that the aerator will penetrate. The two alternative positioning holes raise the Fig. 3 height of the tines away from the ground and decrease the depth the tines will penetrate.
Moving from the lowest hole to the middle hole and to the highest will decrease the depth of the tines by 10mm each step.

Tines

Four tines of the same type must be fitted at all times for the LA25 operator to function correctly.
Each tine must be threaded and secured tightly into the tine holder rods. Each tine must be fitted with a washer and spring washer to ensure the tine can be tightened sufficiently into the tine rod (Fig. 4).
Use a 17mm spanner to tighten the tines in place.
We recommend checking the tightness of the tines at intervals during operation.

Solid Spiking Tines & Hollow Coring Tines

The LA25 Aerator is supplied with a set of both 10mm solid spikes and hollow corer tines (Fig. 5). You must always use four of the same tines when setting up and operating the Aerator. Fig. 5
Solid tines help nutrients to reach soil roots and improve drainage.
Hollow tines, in addition to the benefits listed for solid tines, reduce surface compaction by removing a section of the soil each time a tine is punched  into the soil.

Commissioning

Prior to operation it is necessary to check the engine oil level and, if required, add engine oil to the levels indicated in the table in section 6.1. The engine fuel tank will not contain fuel so will need filling to the recommended level before use. See engine manual for more information.

General Safety Instructions Be aware of all the safety requirements for the machine.

Visually check the machine for operational safety, complete components, and fixed guarding prior to each use.
Read and be aware of the warning and instruction signs located on the machinery.
Cordon off the work area to access from the general public.
Before starting work clear the area of any objects that may cause damage to the machine.
Do not operate the machine if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This equipment must only be operated by persons who are medically fit both physically and mentally.
Only work in good light and visibility.
Do not work in extremes of temperature, or poor weather.
Wear the correct personal protection equipment as instructed by this manual.
Operator clothing should not be loose and footwear should be enclosed and offer good grip.
Know how to stop the machine in an emergency.

Engine Specific Safety Instructions

PETROL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. ALWAYS STOP THE ENGINE AND ENSURE THE
FUEL TAP IS TURNED OFF BEFORE REFUELING, OR WHEN TRANSPORTING, CLEANING, OR MAKING ADJUSTMENTS TO THE MACHINERY.
Do not smoke or use a naked flame when refueling.
Use only unleaded petrol from fuel containers designed for this purpose. Refuel outdoors only and replace the fuel tank cap securely.
Do not mix oil with the fuel.
Leave 25mm (1″) of space in the fuel tank during refilling.
Clear up any petrol spillages immediately.
Always start the engine in the open air. Starting an engine within a confined space can lead to the inhalation of toxic substances.
Avoid contact with the engine and exhaust during operation as they will become hot. Leave the engine to cool prior to contact and storage.
Never interfere with the control settings of the engine.

Machine Safety Sticker Explanations

Danger ­ moving blades. Keep hands and feet away.

1. Read operating instructions before use.
2. Remove spark plug before servicing or performing maintenance.
3. Warning: Keep bystanders away.
   Maximum sound power level (LWA).
   Ear protection must be worn when operating the machine. dB

ALWAYS wear suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Ear Defenders
• Eye Protection
• Foot Protection
• Safety Gloves

Ensure safety guards are in place. Machine MUST NOT be operated without guards.

TRACMASTER LTD
Units 6-7 Winterpick Business Park
Hurstpierpoint Road Wineham, Henfield
BN5 9BJ, UK T: +44 (0)1444 247689

Machine Type: LA25 Lawn Aerator
Weight: 103kg
Year ID: June 2021
Power: 3.6kW
Serial No: B11-47000

Machine identification label. Indicates compliance with European standards (CE mark). Includes unique serial number, machine weight, power output, and month and year of manufacture.
It is important that these stickers are in good condition, are legible, and are in the correct positions on the LA25 Lawn Aerator.
Do not use the machine if any of these stickers are missing or damaged.
If any stickers are missing or damaged then they must be replaced. They can be obtained from the Spare Parts Department at Tracmaster Ltd.

Safety Instructions Starting and Operating

To Start the Engine

Using the dipstick provided, check the engine oil level. Top up with SAE 10W/30 oil, API SJ or later, if the dipstick is clear of oil.|
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Check the fuel level. Refill as necessary and as determined by the fuel tank type ­ see diagram.|
Switch the engine ignition switch to the ON position.|
Turn the fuel tap located on the engine carburetor to the ON position. If the engine is cold or has not been operated recently set the choke lever on the carburetor to the ON position.|

Pull the engine recoil handle slowly until it engages then pull hard and fast to start the engine. After the start, guide the cord back into its position. Do not let it snap back. Once the engine has started, if the choke lever has been used, return this to its OFF position after the engine has run for a few seconds.

To Stop the Engine

Release the operating lever.

Switch the engine ON/OFF switch to the “O” OFF position. Turn the fuel tap lever to the OFF position. Ensure the tines have stopped prior to moving the machine.

WARNING: THE EXHAUST COVER MAY BE HOT ­ DO NOT TOUCH.

Safety Equipment

The LA25 operator must be wearing:

• Ear Defenders
• Gloves
• Protective Footwear
• Safety Glasses

Operation

Before aerating can be carried out the grass must be cut short and be cleared of any objects such as stones or sticks that would damage the Aerator.

WARNING: AERATING LONG GRASS WILL QUICKLY CAUSE DAMAGE TO COMPONENTS OF THE MACHINE. WE RECOMMEND THE GRASS IS CUT PRIOR TO AERATING.

Do not operate the Aerator on wet lawns or in wet weather.
Hollow tines should only be used on moist ground conditions.
Hardcore or rubble located under the surface of the turf will cause damage to the machine.
Use a garden fork to test the depth of the turf. The fork must enter the ground up to 100mm in depth to avoid damage to the tines or corers.
When safety checks have been completed, start the engine following the correct procedure.
Position the throttle lever in its midway position (Fig. 6).

Lift the operating lever (Fig. 7) to engage Fig. 8 the drive and start the tines rotating in their lifted position.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A TWO STAGE LEVER. THE GREY BUTTON MUST BE DEPRESSED BEFORE THE MAIN LEVER CAN BE PULLED UP.
Push the the tine control lever (Fig. 8), forward to lower the tine lifting board. This will allow the rotating tine rods to fall to a vertical position where the tines will be penetrating the ground.

As the tines begin to penetrate the ground they will start to propel the Aerator forwards.
DURING OPERATION OF THE LA25 AERATOR APPLY A SMALL PULLING PRESSURE ON THE HANDLEBAR AS THIS WILL ENSURE THAT THE TINES AND TINE RODS REMAIN IN A VERTICAL POSITION. THE TINES MUST BE VERTICAL FOR MAXIMUM AERATING DEPTHS AND EFFICIENT PROPULSION TO BE ACHIEVED.
Do not work the Aerator on slopes of more than 20 degrees. Always work across the slope, not up and down it.

Procedure for Unexpected Shut Down

Release the operating lever.
Turn the engine operating switch located on the handlebars to the OFF position.
Ensure the tines have stopped prior to moving the machine.

Residual Risks of the LA25 Aerator

The LA25 Aerator is designed to be pushed by the operator during transportation and whilst it propels itself during operation it does not have a driven axle. It has no brake system and therefore the operator must hold firmly onto the machine at all times when the machine is on sloped areas.

Maintenance

Important! Before undertaking any maintenance ensure that the engine is off and the fuel tap is off.

Schedule

| Operation| Daily| Every
Week| Every
Month
---|---|---|---|---
Engine| Check engine oil level SAE 10W/30 API Si or equivalent See separate engine manual| X| X|
Machine| Check condition of tines| X| |
Check condition of tine rods| | X|
Check chain condition| | | X
Check operating lever and cable| | X|
Check protection cover condition| | | X
Check bearings| | | X
Lubricate wheel bearings| | | X
Tighten all nuts and bolts| | | X
Check gearbox oil| X| X|

Basic Maintenance

Check that all guards are fitted securely.
Ensure the cable connecting the operating lever to the engine is securely fastened at both ends and shows no sign of wear.
Check the condition of the tyres and ensure that they do not show any indentations or significant wear and tear.
Ensure the wheels are held securely and the bolt that holds the wheels onto the axles is in place.

Gearbox

Important! Before checking the gearbox oil level the LA25 Aerator needs to be tilted back to ensure that the gearbox is level. The front wheels should be raised approximately 40mm off the ground (Fig 9). You can also place a spirit level on the gearbox.

Remove the oil dipstick (Fig. 10) and fill gearbox with approximately 0.3L of engine oil SAE 10W-30 or equivalent.
Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler hole and Dipstick check the oil level to make sure it is between the upper and lower limit (Fig. 11).

It is recommended that the gearbox oil is changed every time the engine oil is changed.

Engine

Check Engine Oil Level
This is to be checked prior to each use and every 8 hours during operation.
Check only when the engine is off and in a horizontal position.
Clean the oil filler plug and its surrounding parts.
Remove the oil filler plug. Clean the dipstick with a clean cloth and put the oil filler plug all the way back into the engine. Remove the oil filler plug and check the oil level.
Refill the oil if indicator shows more is required. For the Honda GX160 the recommended oil is SAE 10W/30 API SJ or equivalent.

Change Engine Oil
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s manual for location of components and more detailed assistance. Do not change the oil if the engine is hot. The first oil change is after 50 hours of work. Subsequent oil changes should be made after each 100 hours of work. At extreme temperatures or conditions change the oil after every 50 hours. Open the drain plug on the engine and the filling plug and drain the oil into a suitable container or use a suction pump to remove oil through filler neck. Ensure the waste oil is disposed of properly. Re-fit the drain plug and tighten. Fill fresh engine oil through the oil filling opening. Use a funnel or similar device for ease of filling. Replace the oil filler plug and tighten.

Air Filter
Inspection Check: Remove the air cleaner cover and inspect the filter elements.
Cleaning: See diagram below containing information provided by Honda.

Cleaning
Dual-Filter Element Types

1. Remove the wing nut from the air cleaner cover, and remove the cover.
2. Remove the wing nut from the air filter, and remove the filter.
3. Remove the foam filter from the paper filter.
4. Inspect both air filter elements, and replace them if they are damaged. Always replace the paper air filter element at the scheduled interval.

Spark Plug
Clean and replace.

**Cleaning

**

After cleaning, particularly if a pressure washer has been used, ensure any lubrication points are re-lubricated.
Clean the engine with a cloth only. Avoid spraying the engine with jets of water as this may leak into the fuel and ignition systems.

Troubleshooting

Machine
Have all serious malfunctions on the machine and engine repaired by an authorised Tracmaster or Honda agent.

handlebar during operation to
ensure tines are vertical

Engine

connector
Choke lever is not actuated| Actuate choke lever
Fuel tank empty| Fill fuel tank
Fuel line clogged| Clean fuel line
Defective spark plug| Clean or replace spark plug
Engine has too much fuel| Dry and adjust spark plug and start engine on full throttle
Engine overheats| Low engine oil| Refill immediately
Impaired cooling| Clean cooling fan grille
Air filter clogged| Clean air filter

Lubricants
Use engine oil SAE 10W/30 API SJ or equivalent, as specified by Honda.

Transportation, Storage and Handling

Transportation

Use ramps where possible to manoeuvre the Aerator into a transportation vehicle. The LA25 Aerator must be fixed securely using straps and by placing chocks behind the wheels. Always transport the LA25 Aerator horizontally and not tilted at an angle. Ensure that the fuel control lever on the engine is moved into the OFF position so fuel does not leak into the carburetor during transportation.

Storage

Always allow the engine to cool down prior to storage. Always clean the machine and dry thoroughly prior to storage and ensure all lubrication points have been re-greased. For periods of long storage, change the engine oil. Either drain the fuel completely or fill the fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer. Do not store the Aerator in wet rooms, where fertiliser is stored, or in stables as heavy corrosion may occur. Always store the machine in a horizontal position.

Handling

Do not attempt to lift the machine alone. At least two people is the minimum required. Gloves must be worn when lifting the LA25 Aerator. Do not tilt the machine so that fuel can leak into the air filter of the engine. When performing maintenance on the Aerator when it is situated on a work bench, ensure that the machine is firmly held in position at all times. Do not lift the machine solely by the engine at any point.

Spare Parts

The spare parts diagrams and part numbers for the CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator can be found on our website or by contacting our spare parts department. Spare parts can be ordered via the following methods:
Phone: +44(0) 1444 247689 (option 1)
Website: www.tracmaster.co.uk
Email: spares@tracmaster.co.uk
Or via your local Authorised Dealer.

Service Record

To ensure your machine is kept in peak condition we recommend that your CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator is serviced at regular intervals.
Contact Tracmaster on 01444 247689 to find out who your local Authorised Tracmaster Dealer. is, or check our Dealer Locator online at www.tracmaster.co.uk/apps/store-locator.

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(or address & authorised signature)| | Company Stamp:
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(or address & authorised signature)| | Company Stamp:
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EC Declaration of Conformity

Tracmaster Ltd declares that the machinery stipulated below complies with all the relevant provisions of:

Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC

and the National Laws and Regulations adopting these directives and other relevant directive.
Manufacturer: Tracmaster Ltd Units 6-7 Winterpick Business Park Hurstpierpoint Road Wineham Henfield BN5 9BJ UNITED KINGDOM
Machine Description: Lawn Aerator
Type: CAMON LA25

Harmonised Standards applied (including parts of):

EN 294:1992| Safety of machinery: Safety distance to prevent danger zones being reached by the upper limbs.
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EN 954-1:1996| Safety of machinery: Safety related parts of control systems. Part 1— general principles for design.
EN 20643:2008+A1:2012| Hand arm vibration: Laboratory measurement of vibration at the grip surface of hand guided machinery — general.
EN 12100-1:2003 & EN12100-2:2003| Safety of machinery: Basic concepts, general principles for design parts 1 & 2.
EN 13684:2018| Garden equipment. Pedestrian controlled lawn aerators and scarifiers.
ISO 11684:1995| Tractors, machinery for agriculture and forestry, powered lawn and garden equipment: Safety signs and hazard pictorials —general principles.

Responsible Person: Jody Symons
Position in Company: Technical Director
Address: Tracmaster Ltd, Units 6-7 Winterpick Business Park, Hurstpierpoint Road, Wineham, Henfield, BN5 9BJ
Date: May 2021
Signature:

Warranty Information

The Warranty applies to any part of the machine, except the engine, which presents manufacturing or assembly defects in the opinion of Tracmaster Ltd. The Warranty covers the original purchaser of the machine from the date of sale for the warranty period. The Warranty is non-transferable.
The warranty period begins the day the machine is delivered to the customer and is valid for the following periods:

• For domestic or private use: 3 years
• For commercial and hire use: 2 years

Tracmaster Ltd will replace or repair, at their discretion, free of charge, any such defective material providing the machine is returned to their workshops or an Authorised Tracmaster Dealer (contact us or see www.tracmaster.co.uk/apps/store-locator).
Should the owner of the machine wish to install the parts themselves then the labour involved will be at their cost and will not be reimbursed. Expenses arising from any subsequent failure of any part due to incorrect assembly by the owner of the machine shall be borne by the owner of the machine.
To validate warranty the Warranty Registration Card must be completed and returned, or complete the form online at www.tracmaster.co.uk/pages/warranty- registration-form.
The Warranty does not cover any transport costs, or direct or indirect losses owing to loss of use of the machine as a consequence of manufacturing defects or mechanical failure.
No Warranty shall be acknowledged in the following instances:

• The failure is caused by non-compliance of Tracmaster’s directions for the correct use and operation of the machine.
• Seals and settings have been tampered with.
• Repair or modification has not authorised by Tracmaster Ltd.
• Routine maintenance, as advised in this manual, has not been undertaken.
• Incorrect fuels or lubricants have been used.
• Wear to consumable items such as blades, tines, belts, cables, tyres etc.
• Normal wear and tear.
• The failure is due to abuse / misuse / neglect.

For any issues relating to the engine please contact an authorised service centre for the engine. The engines are warranted according to the practices set by their respective manufacturers and distributors.
If an issue develops with the machine, within the warranty period, the problem must be verfied by Tracmaster or an Authorised Tracmaster Dealer before any repair is undertaken.
Any other express or implied warranty is cancelled and substituted by this Warranty, whose clauses can be modified in writing only.
This Warranty provides specific legal rights and is in addition to any statutory rights. Your statutory rights are not affected by this Warranty.

CAMON LA25 Lawn Aerator
Original Instruction Manual
Rev. 07/2021.D

© 2021 Tracmaster Ltd

Tracmaster Ltd
Units 6-7 Winterpick Business Park | Hurstpierpoint Road | Wineham | Henfield | BN5 9BJ
Tel: +44 (0)1444 247689 | www.tracmaster.co.uk | info@tracmaster.co.uk

References

• Warranty Registration Form – Tracmaster Ltd

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