Billy Goat Common Controls: Safe, Simple, Standardized Equipment Operation

The Concept of Common Operator Controls

In the world of outdoor power equipment, the ability to operate machinery with ease and safety is very important. This is where the concept of common operator controls comes into play.

Billy Goat Controls header with a man handling a Billy Goat brushcutter in the background

A system of common controls is the standardization of the handles, buttons, switches and other operator controls across different models and types of machinery.

The idea is that once you learn to operate one piece of equipment, you should be able to operate others with little to no extra training.

With Billy Goat equipment, this concept is realized through their common controls design. It’s an approach that not only simplifies equipment operation but also promotes safety and efficiency. Many models of Billy Goat lawn and leaf vacuums, over-seeders, aerators, post-hole diggers, and brushcutters feature Billy Goat common controls.

Landscaping professionals do many types of work and frequently need to switch from operating one type of machine to another. The beauty of common controls is that they eliminate the need for operators to constantly adjust to different control systems when switching from one task to another. This improves productivity by simplifying the operation process and reducing the risk of errors.

A Detailed Look at the Billy Goat Controls Design

The core part of Billy Goat Common Controls is a system for operating Billy Goat machines with hydrostatic drive. Hydrostatic drive systems use a combination of hydraulic pumps and wheel motors to provide drive power to the wheels.

Billy Goat controls allow the operator to precisely feather the forward and reverse drive speeds of the equipment. No shifting is required, eliminating the possibility of irregular operation and jerks.

One key aspect of the Billy Goat controls is their ergonomic design. The controls are positioned in such a way that they’re within easy reach and easy to operate. There are no pushing movements required. This results in less fatigue for the operator and increased efficiency.

Another feature is the use of universal symbols on the control knobs and levers. This makes it easy to understand what each control does, regardless of the type of Billy Goat equipment you’re operating. The aim is to reduce the learning curve and make it easier for operators to switch between different types of equipment.

Whether you’re operating a Billy Goat brushcutter or an aerator, you’ll find the controls in the same place, functioning in the same way.

The Important Role of Common Control Features in Operator Safety

Safety is a major consideration in the design of Billy Goat equipment. The common control features play an important role in ensuring operator safety. By standardizing the controls across different equipment, Billy Goat reduces the likelihood of operator errors that could lead to accidents.

The operator doesn’t have to use trial and error to figure out the controls when switching from one machine to another. This consistency helps to prevent accidents and promotes a safer work environment.

How Billy Goat Common Controls Reduce the Operator Learning Curve

In addition to promoting safety, the common controls on Billy Goat equipment also reduce the operator learning curve. This means that operators don’t need to spend excess time figuring out how to work each piece of machinery. The standardized controls across different Billy Goat models make transitioning from one machine to another seamless.

The common control features allow operators to apply the skills and knowledge they’ve gained from operating one piece of Billy Goat machinery to others. This is a significant advantage, especially in environments where a crew of operators is running a fleet of equipment, and frequently switching around between different equipment.

The reduced learning curve not only saves time but also boosts productivity. With less time spent on training new employees to operate equipment, both supervisors and operators can focus more on the task at hand. This leads to increased efficiency and better results.

Billy Goat Models That Feature Common Controls

Not all Billy Goat models feature common controls. However, most models that have hydro-drive transmissions do have these controls.

These models include the AE1300H aerator, OS901SPH overseeder, AGR1301H landscape auger, PL2501SP plugger aerator models, SC181 and SC240HG sod cutter models, and the BC2601 brushcutter models. Future models are likely to include the same common controls.

Getting Replacement Parts for Billy Goat Controls

Maintaining your Billy Goat equipment in top shape is essential for its optimal performance. This includes regularly checking and replacing the control parts when necessary. The good news is, getting replacement parts for Billy Goat controls is straightforward and convenient.

You can buy parts for Billy Goat equipment from parts.shankslawn.com. The site has exhaustive catalogs of exploded-view parts diagrams to ensure you can find exactly what you need for your equipment maintenance. As all parts are original Billy Goat parts, you can be confident that the parts you get will fit perfectly into your Billy Goat machinery.

In conclusion, the common controls on Billy Goat equipment provide a safe, simple, and standardized operation. They reduce the operator learning curve, improve safety, and increase efficiency. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner, Billy Goat equipment with common controls are an excellent choice for many types of outdoor tasks.

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Cutting Through the Grass: Key Differences Between the Billy Goat Sod Cutter Models

A man guides a hydrostatic drive Billy Goat sod cutter along a beautiful garden walk.
Beautiful lawns depend on quality equipment.

Introducing Billy Goat Sod Cutters

When it comes to sod cutting, you want to make sure you’re using the best tool for the job. For many professionals and homeowners alike, that means turning to a trusted brand like Billy Goat. Known for their high-quality, durable equipment, Billy Goat has been a leader in the industry for more than five decades. They offer a range of sod cutting machines designed to make your landscaping projects easier, faster, and more efficient.

But with so many great options available, how do you choose the right sod cutter for your needs? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between the various Billy Goat sod cutter models, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll also discuss the benefits of using a Billy Goat sod cutter, and show you where you can purchase replacement parts to keep your machine running smoothly.

So, let’s dive in and learn more about these fantastic machines that can help you tackle difficult grass projects with ease.

Key Features of Billy Goat Sod Cutters

Before we compare the different models, let’s look at some of the key features that make Billy Goat sod cutters stand out from the competition.

  1. Powerful Engines: Billy Goat sod cutters are equipped with powerful Honda engines that enable them to handle even the most challenging sod cutting tasks. These engines ensure that you can quickly and efficiently remove sod from any area, regardless of the terrain or soil conditions. They are also easy to start. If you have ever rented a sod cutter only to spend half the day trying to start it, you know how important this is.
  2. Compact Design: These sod cutters are designed to be compact and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for use in tight spaces or on small residential properties. Despite their compact size, they still offer plenty of cutting power and are capable of handling large-scale landscaping projects.
  3. Adjustable Cutting Depths: With a Billy Goat sod cutter, you can easily adjust the cutting depth to suit your specific needs. This feature allows you to choose the right depth for your project, whether you’re removing turf for a new garden bed, re-sodding a lawn, or installing a hardscape feature like a patio or walkway.
  4. Vibration Dampening: One of the key features that set Billy Goat sod cutters apart from the competition is their superior vibration dampening system. Large isolation mounts on the frame help to reduce operator fatigue and improve overall comfort, allowing you to work longer and more efficiently.
  5. Durable Construction: All Billy Goat sod cutters are built to last, thanks to their rugged and durable construction. They are made with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring that your investment in a Billy Goat sod cutter will provide you with years of reliable performance.

Comparing Billy Goat Sod Cutter Models

Billy Goat offers several different sod cutter models, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. Here, we’ll discuss the key differences between these models to help you decide which one is right for you.

  1. Billy Goat SC121H Sod Cutter: The SC121H is a compact, easy-to-use sod cutter that’s perfect for small-to-medium-sized projects. With its light weight, it can be easily moved, positioned, and transported. It’s powered by a Honda GX160 engine, and features a geared transmission with 2 forward speeds. The SC121H can cut a strip of sod 18 inches wide. It has a stable 4-wheel chassis, and the drive tires have tractor-style treads for better traction.
  2. Billy Goat SC181H Sod Cutter: The SC181H has the same Honda engine as the SC121H. It also has an 18-inch cutting width. But this model features a hydrostatic drive system that provides smooth and variable speed control, forward and reverse. It also has an innovative, durable cutting system and 2 unique drive wheels that provide excellent traction but do not pick up mud. Weighing well over twice as much as the SC121H, this cutter can cut nicely-compressed, perfect strips of sod.
  3. Billy Goat SC181HG Sod Cutter: This sod cutter is largely identical to the SC181H model. Basically the only difference is the drive wheel design. This SC181HG has knobby rubber wheels that are better for gentle sod cutting on sensitive golf course turf.
  4. Billy Goat SC240HG Sod Cutter: The SC240HG is the largest and most powerful sod cutter in the Billy Goat lineup. It boasts a 24-inch cutting width and a powerful Honda GSV190 engine, making it ideal for tackling large-scale sod removal projects. The SC240HG has the same precise hydrostatic drive system as the SC181H. It also has the same golf course-friendly drive wheels as the SC181HG.

All four models are high-quality, reliable sod cutting machines that will make your sod removal and transplanting work cleaner and more efficient.

Source for Replacement Parts

If you already own one of these sod cutters, you may at times need engine maintenance parts, cutting knives, or other parts. Billygoatparts.com features an extensive catalog of parts for both current and former Billy Goat sod cutter models.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Billy Goat Sod Cutters

In conclusion, a Billy Goat sod cutter is an excellent investment for any landscaper or homeowner looking to tackle sod removal projects efficiently and effectively. With their Honda engines, durable construction, and innovative features like adjustable cutting depths and vibration dampening, these machines are designed to make your landscaping tasks easier and more enjoyable.

By understanding the key differences between the various Billy Goat sod cutter models, you can choose the perfect machine for your needs – whether you’re working on small residential projects, large-scale commercial jobs, or anything in between.

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Beyond Fence Post Holes: 3 Alternative Uses for the Billy Goat Landscape Auger

Man using a Billy Goat landscape auger to dig post holes. Behind him, some posts are already planted in their holes.
Planting posts for a sturdy yard fence, on a fall day.

Digging holes is hard work. But it gets a lot easier if you can use a post hole digger, also known as a landscape auger. Although the obvious job description for a post hole digger is to dig holes for posts, the machine is a big asset in other types of backyard work and landscaping.

In this article, we’ll talk about some of those alternative uses, with a special focus on the capabilities of the Billy Goat AGR1301H landscape auger. If you’re ready to take your landscaping game to the next level, read on to learn how you can transform your outdoor space with the Billy Goat AGR1301H.

The traditional use for the auger – digging post holes

The most common use for a landscape auger is, of course, to dig post holes for fences, decks, and similar projects. An auger can make this job much easier and faster than digging by hand. With its 13 HP commercial Honda motor and powerful hydraulic pump, the Billy Goat AGR1301H can dig deep, straight holes in even the toughest soil. And because it’s a one-person machine, one person can operate the controls and dig the holes while the other lifts and sets the posts, making the job more efficient.

But what if you don’t need to dig post holes? Is the auger still worth the investment? Absolutely. There are many other uses for this versatile machine that you may not have considered.

Alternative use #1 – planting trees and shrubs

If you’re planting a lot of trees or shrubs, you know that digging individual holes with a shovel can be back-breaking work. Especially if you’re planting larger trees. An 6 to 8-foot evergreen may need a hole of nearly 3 and a half feet.

With an auger, you can dig multiple holes quickly and easily, even if you’re landscaping a large area or planting a hedge with many individual plantings. The Billy Goat AGR1301H can dig holes up to 42 inches deep and 18 inches wide, making it ideal for most tree and shrub varieties. And because it’s so precise, you won’t disturb the surrounding soil, which can be important for maintaining healthy root systems.

Alternative use #2 – building any type of pole construction

As we mentioned earlier, an auger is essential for building a deck. But a landscape auger comes in handy for a wide number of pole construction projects. For example, if you’re building a pergola, garden shed, or boardwalk, you’ll need to plant the anchoring posts securely in the ground. And if you’re installing a basketball hoop or swing set, you’ll want to make sure the poles are stable and level. An auger can make these jobs much easier, and the Billy Goat AGR1301H is powerful enough to handle even the toughest soil conditions.

In many pole construction projects, concrete is poured into the post hole to anchor the post firmly in the ground. When you dig these holes by hand, it’s hard to get a consistently shaped hole. What happens is that you end up with a too-small hole at the bottom, and a too-large hole near the top. This results in wasted concrete, and a concrete job that doesn’t firmly anchor the post.

With a landscape auger, you can select the exact diameter of the hole by choosing the right size of auger bit. The auger can dig a perfectly round hole all the way to the bottom, and the post you’re planting can be anchored in the proper amount of concrete.

Alternative use #3 – performing percolation tests and improving soil drainage

If you’re having drainage problems in your yard, an auger can help you diagnose and fix the issue. By digging test holes at various depths, you can determine the soil’s percolation rate – that is, how quickly water drains through it. This can help you identify areas that need additional drainage or soil amendments. And if you need to install a French drain or other drainage system, an auger can make the digging part of the job much easier.

The Billy Goat AGR1301H is especially well-suited for this type of work, thanks to its power and easy-to-use controls. Because it’s a self-propelled machine, moving it to the work area isn’t such a difficult task.

Tips for using the Billy Goat Landscape Auger safely and efficiently

As with any power tool, it’s important to use an auger safely and responsibly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using the Billy Goat AGR1301H:

  • Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
  • Make sure both the operator and the helper understand how to use the machine properly.
  • Before starting the auger, make sure the area is clear of debris and other hazards.
  • Use caution when digging near underground utilities, such as gas or electrical lines. Be sure you know exactly where the utilities are located.
  • Never leave the auger unattended while it’s running.
  • After use, clean the dirt from the auger and store it in a dry, secure location.

Conclusion

The Billy Goat AGR1301H landscape auger is a powerful and versatile machine that can make many landscaping and backyard projects much easier. Whether you’re digging post holes, planting trees, building a deck, or improving soil drainage, an auger can save you time and effort. And with its precise digging capabilities and easy-to-use controls, the Billy Goat AGR1301H is an excellent choice for homeowners and professionals alike. So the next time you’re planning a backyard project, consider investing in a landscape auger – it might just be the best tool in your toolbox.

Parts, augers, and accessories for the Billy Goat AGR1301H, can be found on billgoatparts.com. Can’t find the part you’re looking for? Let us know. We are the leading source for Billy Goat parts online, and will be happy to help you find what you need!

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Which Leaf Blower is Right for You?

Fall is right around the corner, which means lawns will be flooded with fallen leaves. Billy Goat’s walk-behind and stander leaf blowers clear areas several times faster than backpack blowers, making them the best choice for productivity. Which one is right for you? There are several factors to consider, including power, control, and movement speed.

What Do Measurements Mean for Performance?

Performance is measured in three ways: velocity, volume, and movement speed. Each measurement has a different effect on working speeds.

  • Velocity: Airspeed is measured in miles per hour. The speed at that air exits the blower determines the force it exerts. Faster air is better for moving heavy materials, like wet leaves.
  • Volume: Air volume is measured in cubic feet per minute. The higher the air volume, the more leaves the blower can move with each pass.
  • Speed: All things being equal, a faster-moving blower clears lawns faster. That’s why you’ll see different acre-per-hour ratings for self-propelled and push blowers. Like lawn mowers, blowers aren’t effective at their top speed. For example, a Hurricane blower has a top transport speed of 11 MPH, but its top operating speed is only 6 MPH.

Directing Air

A leaf blower is only effective if it moves lawn debris where you need it. While you can point a backpack blower’s nozzle anywhere, larger blowers use nozzle control systems to direct air.

Walk-behind blowers use a nozzle that moves up and down. Tilting the nozzle down pushes air along the ground, peeling up compacted leaves. Raising the nozzle directs air across leaves, helping you gather them into piles for disposal. Billy Goat makes elbows for walk-behind blower nozzles that push air forward. This blows leaves away from buildings and retaining walls.

Hurricane blowers have adjustment flaps, and they also have multiple nozzles. Using the control stick, you can send air to the left, right, or front of the machine. That way, you don’t have to back up before making your next pass, and you don’t need attachments to work around fences and buildings.

Need to get leaves out of bushes and away from landscaping features? You can get a hose kit for the F6. This lets you direct air exactly where you need it, much like the hose on a lawn vacuum.

Noise

Noise pollution is a major concern, which has prompted many neighborhoods to limit lawn equipment to 70 dB as measured from 20 feet away. Billy Goat’s walk-behind blowers stay below this limit by using cast composite housings and fans. These have tighter tolerances than metal components, reducing stagnant air pockets and turbulence. The result is a significant decrease in noise, not to mention wear and fuel consumption. These models make between 87 and 97 dB as measured from the operator’s position, which is well below the standard neighborhood sound limit.

If you’re looking at stander blowers, keep in mind that the Z3000 and P2000 are quieter than the old X3000, because the engine runs at lower speeds during operation.

Getting Parts and Accessories for Your Billy Goat Blower

When you need something for your walk-behind or stander blower, visit www.billygoatparts.com. Billy Goat Parts isn’t just a Billy Goat dealer. We’re also an authorized dealer for their manufacturing partners, including Honda, Vanguard, and Hydro-Gear. Our site can find parts specific to your make, model, and serial number, and it has built-in factory parts diagrams, so you can see exactly what you’re ordering. We ship OEM parts and accessories across the U.S. and Canada.

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Servicing AET 48/72 Towable Aerators

If you’re used to walk-behinds and towable drum aerators, using the AET 48/72 aerator is a revelation. Its simple design, which separates the weight from the tines holder, makes it easy to tow, and even easier to turn, thanks to its swiveling tines. However, even the simplest machine needs repairs and maintenance. Here’s what you need to know to keep your aerator working consistently and reliably.

Replacing Single Tines

Tines are self-scouring, becoming dull near the end of their service life, or after heavy impacts. Dull and bent tines should be replaced as soon as possible.

  1. Lift the tines and chock the wheels.
  2. Loosen the outermost nut and carriage bolt holding in the tine, then the innermost nut and bolt.
  3. Use a pry bar to push the tine plates apart. You can now pull the tine off of the reel.
  4. Slide the new tine in place and tighten down the nuts and bolts.

Removing the Tine Reel for Better Access

While it’s difficult to remove individual tine stars, removing the entire tine reel lets you replace multiple tines as well as any other worn or damaged parts.

  1. Lift the tines and chock the wheels.
  2. Put something under the reel to support it.
  3. Remove the nuts and bolts on the reel bearings.
  4. Lift the reel and tilt it to slide it off of the chain.
  5. Remove the cotter pin and nut on the end of the shaft.
  6. Slide the tines and spacers off of the reel. Keep everything in order for reassembly.
  7. After swapping out any damaged or worn parts, follow the previous steps in reverse to reassemble and fit the reel.

Bearing Service

Billy Goat recommends lubricating the pillow bearings at least once per season. They should also be regreased after washing the aerator to force out any water inside the bearing. Use an NLGI #2 lithium grease. The tines should be in the raised position before you use a grease gun on the zerk fittings.

Troubleshooting

If you notice abnormal vibrations, stop using the aerator immediately. Inspect the AET 48/72 for loose and damaged parts. Tighten down and replace parts as needed.

To get good penetration, you need to start with moist soil. Water the area you’re aerating the day before. Don’t forget to add weight to your aerator. Each module of the AET 48/72 supports up to 80 lbs. of deck weight, and a maximum of 425 lbs. when fully assembled. To reach this weight, make sure every water jug is full, and have two jugs on each module. If you don’t have water jugs, place cement blocks or pieces of steel on the plates, being sure not to exceed the weight limit.

Need Something for Your Aerator?

Billy Goat Parts is an authorized dealer for Billy Goat and their manufacturing partners, so we carry everything from engine parts to debris loader accessories. If you need tines or other parts for your towable aerator, visit us at www.billygoatparts.com. Our search engine has built-in factory parts diagrams, so you can see exactly what you’re buying. We can ship your order to any address in the United States or Canada.

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Servicing AET 36/60 Towable Aerators

The AET series of aerators are mechanically simple. All you have to do is open or close the wings to get them working width you want, then pull the trailer across the area with soil compaction. However, even these machines need to be worked on from time to time. Here’s what you should do to keep your aerating trailer working, as well as ways you can solve common operating problems.

Your Aerator’s Maintenance Schedule

  • Before use: Clean the aerator, focusing on the tines.
  • Every 10 hours: Check for loose and damaged parts.
  • Every 50 hours: Grease the tine hubs and wheel bearings.

Replacing the Tines

The tines on this aerator are made from metal that is self-scouring. As they wear down, they stay sharp until they’re near the point of failure. Tines should be replaced when they’re dull or bent. Don’t worry if you get new tines that don’t look like your old ones. A few years ago, Billy Goat updated the design of the tines used on these models. These new tines fit all AET 36/60 aerators, even if they came with the older tine design.

Replacement is simple. Raise the tines to the transport position. Remove the bolt and nut holding the tine to the tine hub, then bolt in the new tine.

Grease

Grease should be added to wheel bearings and tine hubs periodically to push out dirt. You also need to grease these fittings after cleaning your aerator with a pressure washer. This forces out any water that may have made its way past the seals. Billy Goat recommends NLGI Grade 2 lithium grease.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Abnormal Vibrations

– Check for damaged or missing parts, and remove any lodged debris. If you don’t notice anything obvious, check the tightness of all the bolts on your aerator.

Poor Aerating Performance

  • The tines might be worn or bent. Inspect the tines, and replace them as needed.
  • Moist soil is easier to penetrate than dry soil. Water the ground the day before aerating.
  • Lock the tine stars when using this aerator with a standard trailer hitch. Free-moving tines can keep the trailer from tracking straight. This is less of an issue with three-point tractor hitches.
  • If you’re getting poor penetration with the wings extended, try adding weight to the trays. The entire aerator supports a maximum of 350 lbs. That’s about 10 16x4x8 inch concrete cap blocks or a little over 6 8x8x16 inch cinder blocks. The weight of the folded wings is more than enough to push the rest of the aerator tines into the ground.

Need Something for Your Aerator?

Billy Goat Parts is an authorized dealer for Billy Goat and their manufacturing partners, so we carry everything from engine parts to debris loader accessories. If you need tines or other parts for your towable aerator, visit us at www.billygoatparts.com. Our search engine has built in factory parts diagrams, so you can see exactly what you’re buying. We can ship your order to any address in the United States or Canada.

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Billy Goat’s New SG1301H and SG1301HGT Stump Grinders

Over the past few years, Billy Goat has worked to expand their offerings, adding augers and stander leaf blowers to its lineup. Now, they’re introducing their first stump grinder. On paper, the SG1301’s specs don’t stand out. However, thanks to Billy Goat’s usual attention to detail, this machine is packed with features that make it easier to use than its competitors. This makes this stump grinder a great choice for lawn care professionals and rental equipment businesses.

Control

This grinder comes with a dual handle that has bales at both ends. This provides several hand positions, helping the operator control the machine while reducing fatigue during long cutting sessions. This handle is extra-long, adding leverage for lifting and lowering the cutting head. It’s also height-adjustable, making it comfortable for operators of any size. There’s a foot pad at the base of the handle, which lets the operator use their weight to lift the head. A brake release lever next to the handle makes it easy to go between transport and operating modes. This brake only locks one wheel, keeping the machine from rolling, while allowing it to pivot as the cutting head sweeps back and forth across the stump.

A large emergency stop button is within easy reach of the handle. Next to this switch, you’ll find instructions on accessing the SG1301’s online manual and demonstration videos. This helps people renting this piece of equipment get up to speed with its operation.

The head is mounted to a long arm. This allows Billy Goat to use a longer belt, increasing its service life. The entire length of the belt is shielded by a metal guard, so it won’t be damaged by flying debris.

Cutting Power

The SG1301 is powered by a Honda GX390. This staple of commercial small equipment has built a reputation for rock-solid reliability and can be found in everything from construction equipment to tillers. Low noise, low fuel consumption, and low oil consumption make it easy to live with.

The SG1301H cuts through wood and soil with a 14-inch wide, 3/8-inch thick wheel with 8 tungsten carbide teeth. Need to cut through rocky soil? The SG1301HGT comes with Greenteeth, which is chip resistant. Of course, both types of teeth will fit both versions of this stump grinder.

Both versions of this grinder can cut as high as 24 inches above grade and as low as 16 inches below grade.

Warranty

Honda guarantees their GX-Series engines for three years of commercial use, while Billy Goat guarantees the rest of this stump grinder for one year.

Whether it’s New or Old, We Have Everything You Need for Your Billy Goat

Billy Goat Parts is an authorized dealer for Billy Goat, as well as their manufacturing partners, including Honda Engines. That means we sell everything you need for your equipment, including parts and accessories. Our search engine can find parts for your specific make and model, and we have sections for commonly ordered parts, like air filters. When you need something for your Billy Goat turf products, visit us at www.billygoatparts.com. We ship across the United States and Canada.

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Choosing the Right Tiller or Cultivator for Your Garden

Are you tired of renting tillers? Do you want some motorized help when you’re turning soil and weeding your garden beds? Maybe it’s time to get a cultivator or a tiller. What’s the difference, and how do you pick the right features for the work you need to do?

Do I Need a Tiller or a Cultivator?

A cultivator mixes soil. Its tines are short, so it only digs through the top layer of dirt. This is great for seeding, adding fertilizers and weeding. It can’t cut through compacted soil, or soil with thick root systems.
A tiller breaks up soil. These machines have long, sharp tines that cut and lift as they spin. This is great for creating a new garden bed, but it moves too much soil for mixing and weeding.
Some machines can act as both tillers and cultivators. The difference comes down to the tines. Some models can use multiple tine sets, while others have reversible tines. By swapping the position of the tine wheels, either the long or short blades face out, changing the cutting depth.

How Does Tine Position Affect Performance?

Tillers are available with front, mid and rear tine designs. Each position works best at a specific job.
Front tine: With the tines in front of the machine, it’s easy to see where they’re cutting. These tillers are great for turning soil around trees, fences and other obstacles.
Mid tine: By placing the tines directly below the engine, the added weight helps push the tines into the soil. This delivers more cutting power with less engine power Most small cultivators use a mid-tine design, so they can be lighter while still getting the job done.
Rear tine: The tines on these machines are big, and they cut backwards. This helps the tines dig as you push the tiller over the ground. These are the strongest, deepest-digging machines. They’re ideal for clearing large plots of land and turning soil full of roots and rocks.

Which Power Source Should I Use?

Electric motors make maximum torque as soon as they start turning, but their total output is limited in this application. That’s why you’ll only see them used in small cultivators. Corded cultivators have to be plugged in. They’re cheap, and the cord isn’t an issue when you’re working on seed beds close to your house. Rechargeable cultivators use a battery pack, just like an electric drill. Power is comparable to a corded cultivator.
Two-stroke engines make more power than four strokes with the same displacement, but their power band is narrow. If the engine slows down too much, it can stall. Some small cultivators use these engines to save weight.
Four stroke engines have a wide power band, making them suited for heavy work. They’re also available in a range of sizes, from 35cc single cylinders to large V-Twins. Most tillers use these engines.

Where Can I Get a Quality Tiller?

Shank’s Lawn Equipment carries tillers from top brands, including BCS, Troy-Bilt and Honda. Need to do major work? We also carry tiller tractor attachments from Woods Equipment. If you’re looking for new power garden tools, or you need help with your current equipment, visit us at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. You can also get parts and accessories for your equipment by visiting our website, www.shankslawn.com. We ship across the United States and Canada.

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Exmark RED Technology: Getting More from Your Mower

If you’re looking at Exmark for your next mower, you may have come across something called “RED Technology.” What is it? This is a suite of features that work to lower your operating costs and protect your mower. By using computer monitoring, this system helps the mower maintain blade speed, increase fuel economy, reduce clutch wear and prevent damage caused by low oil and other mechanical issues.

Letting the Mower Control the Throttle

Exmark’s second generation RED technology has an automatic throttle that reacts to load conditions. By sensing changes in blade speed, this system adjusts engine speed to compensate, all but eliminating sag. This system also lets you change performance based on mowing conditions. RED has three profiles:
Low – Reduces blade speed, keeping the deck clear when mowing wet, thick grass
Efficiency – Maximizes fuel economy during regular mowing
Max – Provides maximum power for dense grass
There are also two temporary modes:
Throttle Down – Briefly lower blade speed to keep from throwing rocks and other objects at nearby windows
Operator Presence Idle – While activating the operator presence switch shuts off most mowers, RED Technology shuts off the clutch and sets the engine to idle. That way, you can get off and on your mower without having to restart the engine.

Safe Transport Mode

If the technology suite notices a problem, it can put the mower into this limp home mode. In safe transport mode, the clutch disengages, while the engine speed is limited. This lets you get your mower back onto the trailer for repairs, while reducing the danger of damaging your engine due to low oil, misfires or other problems.

Display

RED Technology puts all the information you need into a single display:
– Average fuel consumption
– Current fuel consumption
– Fixed hour meters for PTO and engine
– Resettable hour meters for PTO and engine to keep track of maintenance
– Error codes and error log
This display sits directly in front of the clutch control. Buttons below the screen let you change operating modes, flip through menus and reset hour meters. It’s also pre-programmed with reminders for different operating conditions. It will remind you to change the oil, including the short interval for initial break-in. You can also set it for severe duty use, shortening maintenance reminder intervals.

Which Models have RED Technology?

Exmark includes this feature suite on their Lazer Z X-Series mowers equipped with Kawasaki and Kohler EFI engines, and their Lazer Z Diesel ZTR mowers equipped with Yanmar engines.

When You Need the Best, Go to Shank’s

Shank’s Lawn Equipment has over 35 years of experience selling and servicing equipment used by lawn care professionals. We carry top quality equipment from major brands, including Exmark, Scag, Wright and more. If you’re looking for a better mower, or need help with your current equipment, visit us at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. You can also order OEM parts and accessories for your equipment from our website, www.shankslawn.com. We can ship your order to any address in the U.S. or Canada.

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Little Wonder Optimax Blower

Labor is one of the biggest costs for grounds keeping and landscaping businesses, so it makes sense to use tools that cut job times as much as possible. With Little Wonder’s Optimax walk-behind blowers, you can do just that. These rolling four stroke leaf blowers offer several times the power of backpack blowers, allowing one person to do work that would normally require several people. Thanks to some clever engineering, this blower also cuts down on the circumstances where you’d need someone with a smaller blower do cleanup.

Solving One of the Most Annoying Problems with Walk-Behind Blowers

Walk-behind blowers have loads of power, which is great when they’re set up correctly. However, if you aim the wrong way or get the distance wrong on a pass, you can ruin your work. Little Wonder solved this problem by making a deflector that creates two streams of air. The high velocity stream aims across the ground, peeling back heavy, wet leaves. Above this, there’s a low velocity air stream that pushes leaves with minimal blowback. This lets you loosen leaves from the ground and move leaf piles at the same time. The chute is controlled remotely from the operator’s handle, letting you alter the height of these two streams.
The Optimax has a flat-sided impeller chamber that ends in a square discharge chute. This chute is low to the ground, increasing surface force by up to 38% compared to competing blowers.
Moving this blower around is no problem at all, thanks to support from three large pneumatic tires. When the work is done, the Optimax is easy to load onto a trailer thanks to its built-in transport bracket.

Models

Little Wonder offers the Optimax walk-behind blower with a choice of engines. Air volume and velocity varies, depending on the engine.
Honda GC160: 1,397 CFM, 153 MPH
Honda GX270: 2,260 CFM, 143 MPH
Honda GX 390: 2,530 CFM, 160 MPH
Kohler Command Pro CH395: 2,260 CFM, 143 MPH
Vanguard 570cc V-Twin: 2,850 CFM, 179 MPH
Self-Propelled blowers are available with the GX270, GX390 and Vanguard engines. Air output is the same as push models. These blowers have a CVT transaxle that can propel the blower to a speed of 4.1 MPH going forward, and 2.5 MPH in reverse. This transaxle has an integrated parking brake. A separate parking brake can be added to push blowers.

Accessories

Little Wonder offers an optional swivel wheel kit that replaces the fixed front wheel for better turning. If you want to cut down on maintenance, you can swap out the front tire with a solid rubber unit that won’t go flat.
Want to carry a rake with you to pull out leaves in tight quarters? You can add a tool holder to your blower.

Warranty

Honda, Kohler and Vanguard guarantee their engines for three years of commercial use. Little Wonder covers the rest of the Optimax blower with a 5 year warranty.

Get the Support You Need for Your Professional Equipment

Shank’s Lawn Equipment has spent almost four decades helping their customers find and maintain their outdoor equipment. We’re not just a Little Wonder dealer. We also service and offer parts for everything we sell. If you’re looking for more effective ways to handle lawn care, or you need help with your current equipment, visit us at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. You can also order OEM parts for the brands we carry at our website, www.shankslawn.com. We ship across the USA and Canada.

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