HITCH CARRIER / Aerator

[KenB2920]

This is actually the first thing I have ever welded














My dilemma: aerator is to heavy to lift by myself into the truck bed. The ramps aren't adequate or trailers sits to high to push up aerator. I though of purchasing a small trailer but the thought of pulling a trailer specifically for the aerator didnt seem right to me.

So I though hey, buy a handicapp carrier. Way to expensive and not wide enough. Most carriers I found were about 28".

Finally I said heck with it. I own a welder (yet never welded before). So why not make the attempt to make my own.

I went up to the steel yard and grabbed some scraps. I threw it together over the course of a week. ( putsing in the garage here and there).

Now it's time to get some aerating jobs.

Yes, I still have a few things left to do. I just threw some paint on it and that makes a world of a difference. Then I just need to button up a thing or two and I am in business.

 

[KenB2920]

I figured this would be a good alternative to purchasing a trailer or buying a carrier. Much cheaper making it yourself too.

 

[zing]

Wow, nice work for your first ever welding project. Looks like it will do the job well.

Looks like the ramp is hinged and folds up once the aerator is loaded. How is the ramp secured in the upright position? I can't see that detail from the pictures.

 

[lostcreekranch]

Now it's time to get some aerating jobs.

Ken;

I have seen these power aerators and always wondered what you do in a area with underground sprinkler heads? How do you keep from tearing them up? Thanks Rick P.S. Very nice job on your carrier.

 

[KenB2920]

Thank you for the kind words. It is still in the garage, I need to drill one hole (so it stays in the receiver) and as mentioned, I need to attach the device to keep the ramp from falling while driving.

As for sprinkler heads. This machine will essentially destroy them. I will be new to aerating this year for customers. I've done it many times in the past and ran a "tiny" lawn care company for a couple seasons. Right now I am building my equipment up and getting situated for next season. So, I will talk with the customer and either have them mark them, flag them, or turn the sprinkler on so I can mark them. In the worst case scenario I will turn down a lawn I don't feel comfortable with. I know where to draw my line.

 

[lostcreekranch]

Thank you for the kind words. It is still in the garage, I need to drill one hole (so it stays in the receiver) and as mentioned, I need to attach the device to keep the ramp from falling while driving. As for sprinkler heads. This machine will essentially destroy them. I will be new to aerating this year for customers. I've done it many times in the past and ran a "tiny" lawn care company for a couple seasons. Right now I am building my equipment up and getting situated for next season. So, I will talk with the customer and either have them mark them, flag them, or turn the sprinkler on so I can mark them. In the worst case scenario I will turn down a lawn I don't feel comfortable with. I know where to draw my line.

Thank Ken. That's clear. I wondered if there was any magic to it.

Rick

 

[KenB2920]

Thank Ken. That's clear. I wondered if there was any magic to it.

Rick

Gosh I wish there was some magic involved. Unfortunately the machine is very unforgiving. It does do a fantastic job though. And if anyone reads this and haas a magic potion' please share.

Sent from my iPad using TractorByNet

 

[TO_Bud]

Ken I built something similar to carry a Permagreen ride on fert spreader awhile back. There are a lot of forces created that work against the hitch and the carrier while you drive. I used 1/4" square tube to create the carrier for that reason. You might want to add some additional bracing to yours and keep an eye on all your welds while you use it as they can crack from fatigue down the road.

 

[KenB2920]

Ken I built something similar to carry a Permagreen ride on fert spreader awhile back. There are a lot of forces created that work against the hitch and the carrier while you drive. I used 1/4" square tube to create the carrier for that reason. You might want to add some additional bracing to yours and keep an eye on all your welds while you use it as they can crack from fatigue down the road.

I believe I did use 1/4 inch square tubing. Yes, I shall definitely keep an eye on the welds. Trust me, I am very nervous about it do to its my first attempt at welding at an expensive machine will be up there. I definitely appreciate and welcome all tips, concerns and advise.

 

[bigtiller]

Thank you for the kind words. It is still in the garage, I need to drill one hole (so it stays in the receiver) and as mentioned, I need to attach the device to keep the ramp from falling while driving.

As for sprinkler heads. This machine will essentially destroy them. I will be new to aerating this year for customers. I've done it many times in the past and ran a "tiny" lawn care company for a couple seasons. Right now I am building my equipment up and getting situated for next season. So, I will talk with the customer and either have them mark them, flag them, or turn the sprinkler on so I can mark them. In the worst case scenario I will turn down a lawn I don't feel comfortable with. I know where to draw my line.

I would look for the TV cable. Most of them are overhead but some are under ground - and some of those are only an inch under the sod. I am sure you know this but it is a good idea to have the utilities located, for your safety and financial success.

And don't forget about the sewer. Some septic systems have plastic lids and inspection covers that are just under the sod.