VT 40 - ATIKA - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL VT 40 ATIKA

Thatcher Original instructions – Safety instructions – Spare parts

Contents Extent of delivery Declaration of conformity Operating times Symbols machine Symbols used in the operating instructions Proper use Residual risks Safety instructions Assembly Start-up Setting the work depth Working instructions Working with the scarifier Maintenance and cleaning Transport Storage Possible faults Technical data Description of device / Spare parts Guarantee

11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 14 14 15 15 15 16 16 16 17 17 18 18

herewith declare under our sole responsibility that the product Scarifier Type VT 36 and VT 40 is conform with the above mentioned EC directives as well as with the provisions of the guidelines below: 2004/108/EC, 2006/95/EC and 2000/14/EC. Following harmonized standards have been applied: EN 60335-1:2002+A1+A11+A12+A2+A13; EN 60335-2-92:2005; EN 62233:2008; ZEK 01.2-08; EN 50366:2003+A1; EN 55014-1:2006; EN 55014-2:1997+A1; EN 61000-3-2:2006; EN 61000-3-11:2000 Conformity assessment procedure: 2000/14/EC - Appendix V. VT 36 Measured level of the acoustic output LWA Guaranteed level of the acoustic

A. Pollmeier, management

After unpacking, check the contents of the box ! ! • • • • • • • • • • •

That it is complete Check for possible transport damage

1 Pre-assembled device 1 Lower handle hoop 1 Upper handle hoop 2 wheels (VT 40 only) 2 hub caps (VT 40 only) 2 wheel caps (VT 40 only) 1 Grass catching bag – optional accessory, if applicable 1 Screw bag 2 Cable brackets 1 Operating instructions 1 Assembly and operating instruction sheet

Report any damage or missing items to your dealer, supplier or the manufacturer immediately.

EC Declaration of Conformity according to EC directive: 98/37/EC until 28.12.2009 2006/42/EC from 29.12.2009 We, ATIKA GmbH & Co. KG Schinkelstraße 97 59227 Ahlen - Germany

Operating times Before initiating the device please observe the provisions pertaining to corresponding laws (regional provisions) for the noise control.

Symbols machine Shut off engine and remove power cord before performing cleaning, maintenance or repair work. Keep the mains Danger – objects cable free from the may be thrown out tines or blades. at high speed when motor is Tines or blades running. may damage the cables and cause Keep people, pets and domestic animals out of contact with live parts. the danger area. The tools are very When connecting sharp. cable is damaged or cut through Do not cut in your immediately pull out the power fingers or toes. plug. Carefully read operating instructions before handling the machine.

Caution! Blades run after!

Wear eye and ear protection.

Beware of rotating blades or tines. Do not keep hands and feet near or under rotating parts while the machine is running. Protect against moisture.

Electrical devices do not go into the domestic rubbish. Give devices, accessories and packaging to an ecofriendly recycling. According to the European Directive 2002/96/EC on electrical and electronic scrap, electrical devices that are no longer serviceable must be separately collected and brought to a facility for an environmentally compatible recycling.

Symbols Operating instructions

Threatened hazard or hazardous situation. Not observing this instruction can lead to injuries or cause damage to property. Important information on proper handling. Not observing this instruction can lead to faults in the machine. User information. This information helps you to use all the functions optimally. Assembly, operation and servicing. Here you are explained exactly what to do. Please refer to the attached assembly and operating instruction sheet for references to figure numbers in the text.

ƒ Any other use is deemed not to be use as prescribed. The manufacturer is not liable for any type of damage resulting from this: the user bears the sole risk. ƒ Arbitrary modifications on the scarifier exclude a liability of the manufacturer for damages of all kinds resulting from it. ƒ Only persons who are familiarised with the device and informed about possible risks are allowed to prepare, operate and service this device. Repair works may only be carried out by us or by a customer service agent nominated by us. ƒ The machine may not be used in a potentially explosive environment or be exposed to the rain.

Residual risks Even if used properly, residual risks can exist even if the relevant safety regulations are complied with due to the design determined by the intended purpose. Residual risks can be minimised if the “Safety information” and the “Intended usage” as well as the whole of the operating instructions are observed. Observing these instructions, and taking proper care, will reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to the equipment. ƒ Risk injury of hands and feet if they come close to or under the rotating parts. ƒ Risk of injury of fingers and hands during assembly and cleaning activities on the scarifier drum. ƒ Stones and soil may be thrown off. ƒ Danger resulting from electric current, if improper connecting wires are used. ƒ Touching live parts of opened electrical components. ƒ Impairment of hearing when working on the machine for longer periods of time without ear protection. In addition, in spite of all the precautionary measures taken, non-obvious residual risks can still exist.

Proper use ƒ This scarifier is suited for scarifying lawn and for taking up leaves from lawn on private house and hobby gardens. ƒ The device is not allowed to be used in public gardens, parks, sports centres or at roadsides as well as in agriculture and forestry.The device is not allowed to be used in public gardens, parks, sports centres or at roadsides as well as in agriculture and forestry. ƒ The scarifier may not be used: − to trim bushes, hedges and shrubs − to level uneven grounds (e.g. mole hills) − as power tiller − on plastered or gravelled areas Risk of injuries existing! ƒ The intended usage also includes compliance with the operating, servicing and repair conditions prescribed by the manufacturer and following the safety instructions included in the instructions. ƒ The relevant accident prevention regulations for the operation as well as the other generally acknowledged occupational medicine and safety rules must be complied with. 12

Scarifiers can be dangerous when used improperly. The use of electrical tools requires the observation of basic safety precautions to eliminate risk of fire, electrical shock and personal injuries. Before commissioning this product, read and keep to the following advice. Also observe the preventive regulations of your professional association and the safety provisions applicable in the respective country, in order to protect yourself and others from possible injury.

L L Pass the safety instructions on to all persons who work with the machine. Keep these safety instructions in a safe place.

ƒ Make yourself familiar with the equipment before using it, by reading and understanding the operating instructions. ƒ Be attentive. Be careful what you do. Behave sensibly when working. Do not use the device when you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medicaments. One moment of carelessness when using the device can result in serious injuries.

ƒ Do not use the device for purposes it is not intended for (see “Intended use”). ƒ Familiarize yourself with your environment and pay attention to possible dangers which you may not be able to hear because of the motor noise. ƒ Within his area of work the operator is responsible for third parties. ƒ Children and young persons under 16 years of age as well as persons who have not read the instruction manual are not allowed to operate this product. ƒ Physically, sensorially or mentally handicapped persons or persons who have no relevant experience and/or knowledge are not allowed to operate the device, unless a person responsible for their safety supervises them or instruct them on how to use the device. ƒ Children must be supervised to make sure that they do not play with the device. ƒ Keep bystanders and animals away from your working area. Do not allow other persons, especially children, to touch the tool or cable. ƒ Switch off the machine if persons, in particular children or pets, are close to you or if you change your working area. ƒ Never leave the device unattended. ƒ Wear protective clothing: − safety goggles − ear protection (Sound intensity level at workplace can exceed 85 dB (A)) ƒ Wear suitable work clothes: − do not wear loose-fitting clothes or jewellery; they can catch in moving parts. − Solid shoes or boots with a nonskid sole − Trousers to protect the legs ƒ Do not work with the device barfooted or only with thongs on your feet. ƒ Take into consideration environmental influences: − Do not use the device in moist or wet ambience. − Do not expose the device to rain. − Do not work directly near swimming pools or garden ponds − Do only work with sufficient visibility conditions. Provide for good illumination. − Do not operate the device when the grass is wet, if possible. ƒ Before trimming, remove all foreign objects (e.g. stones, branches, wires, etc.). While working watch out for further foreign objects. ƒ If you come across to foreign objects, power off the device, disconnect the mains plug and remove those foreign objects. However before you restart the device, check it for possible damages and have it repaired if necessary. ƒ Do not overload the device! You work better and safer in the given performance range. ƒ Only operate the machine with complete and correctly attached safety equipment (e.g. impact guard and/or catching bag) and do not alter anything on the machine that could impair the safety. ƒ Do not modify the device or parts of the device respectively. ƒ Before turning on the motor, make sure that your feet are at a safe distance from the cutting tools. ƒ If not absolutely necessary, do not tilt the device when starting the motor. If it is necessary only tilt the device to the

ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

required extent and only lift the side which is averted to the operator. Never keep hands or feet close to or under rotating parts. Keep away from the ejection slot. Pay attention to sure footing especially when working on slopes or on wet grass and keep your balance at all times. Guide the device only a walking speed. Do not thatch on steep slopes. When thatching on slopes, always work perpendicular to the slope and never up and down. Be especially careful when changing the operating direction on a slope. Observe the safety distance given by the handle bar. Always push the device forward while it is operating. Do not pull it to yourself or behind you. While the motor is running, do not − lift or carry the device about − lift the impact guard Caution! The tool runs after. Do not try to slow down the tool by hand. Pay attention that the impact guard is closed or that the grass catching bag (optional accessory, if applicable) is attached. Turn off the device and wait until the drum has stopped when − tilting the scarifier − crossing areas not planted with grass − transporting the device to and from the work area Switch the machine off and remove the mains plug from the socket when − carrying out repair works − maintenance and cleaning − removing malfunctions and blockages − transport and storage − leaving unattended (even during short interruptions) − when the scarifier begins to exhibit unusual vibrations − when you have hit an obstacle with the scarifier. Do not wash down device with water. (origin of danger electric current). Store unused equipment in a dry, locked place out of the reach of children. Check the machine for possible damage: − Before continuing to use the machine, the protective devices must be inspected to ensure that they work perfectly and with their intended function. This includes also the grass catching bag if available. − Check whether movable parts function perfectly and do not stick or whether parts are damaged. All parts must be correctly installed and fulfil all conditions to ensure perfect operation. − Damaged guards and parts must be properly repaired or exchanged by a recognized, specialist workshop; insofar as nothing else is stated in the instructions for use. − Damaged or illegible safety warning labels should be replaced immediately. Maintain your scarifier with care: − Ensure that all nuts, bolts and screws are tight. − Make sure that the ventilation apertures are free. − Keep handles free of oils and grease. − Follow the maintenance instructions. 13

Electrical safety ƒ Design of the connection cable according to IEC 60245 (H 07 RN-F) with a core cross-profile section of at least - 1.5 mm² for cable lengths up to 25 m - 2.5 mm2 for cable lengths over 25 m ƒ Long and thin connection lines result in a potential drop. The motor does not reach any longer its maximal power; the function of the device is reduced. ƒ Plugs and coupler outlets on connection cables must be made of rubber, non-rigid PVC or other thermoplastic material of same mechanical stability or be covered with this material. ƒ The connector of the connection cable must be splash-proof. ƒ When running the connection line observe that it does not interfere, is not squeezed, bended and the plug connection does not get wet. ƒ Wind off completely the cable when using a cable drum. ƒ Do not drive the device across the extension cable. Make sure that it is behind you in a secure position. Place the cable on a path or area that has already been thatched.  ƒ Do not use the cable for purposes for which it is not meant. Protect the cable against heat, oil and sharp edges. Do not use the cable to pull the plug from the socket. ƒ Protect yourself against electric shocks. Avoid touching earthed parts with your body (e.g. pipes, heating apparatus, cookers, fridges etc.). ƒ Regularly check the extension cables and replace them if they are damaged. ƒ Do never connect a damaged cable to the mains. Do not touch a damaged cable before it is disconnected from the mains. A damaged cable may cause contact with live parts. ƒ Do not use any defective connection cables. ƒ When working outdoors, only use extension cables especially approved and appropriately labelled for outdoor use. ƒ Do not set up any provisional electrical connections. ƒ Never bypass protective devices or deactivate them. ƒ Only hook up the machine by means of a fault-current circuit breaker (30 mA). The electrical connection or repairs to electrical parts of the machine must be carried out by a certified electrician or one of our customer service points. Local regulations – especially regarding protective measures – must be observed. Damaged mains leads must be replaced by the manufacturer or one of their service workshops or a similar qualified person to prevent dangers. Repairs to other parts of the machine must be carried out by the manufacturer or one of his customer service points. Use only original spare parts, accessories and special accessory parts. Accidents can arise for the user through the use of other spare parts. The manufacturer is not liable for any damage or injury resulting from such action.

Assembly Front wheels – VT 40  On the left and right side, slide the wheel (16), washer (4) and lock washer (37) on the axle. Fix them using the screws M6x12 (36). Plug the hub cap (17) and the wheel cap (18) on the wheel. Handle hoop  Plug the lower handle hoop (2) in the body. Make sure that it locks into place. Fasten the upper handle hoop (1). You can choose from two handle heights. Use the supplied fasteners (2x machine knob (5), 2x washer (4), 2x screw M6x45 (3)). Fix the cable on the handle hoop using the cable holders (6). Make sure that the cable has enough free motion. Grass catching bag (8)  optional accessory Pull the impact guard (7) up and hold it. Hang up the collecting bag (8) on the holders. Make sure that the collecting bag (8) is in contact with the bar and the impact guard (7) rests on the collecting bag.

Start-up Mains connection Compare the voltage given on the machine model plate e.g. 230 V with the mains voltage and connect the machine to the relevant and properly earthed plug. Connect the machine via a circuit breaker switch (residualcurrent-operated circuit switch) 30 mA. ƒ Use connecting or extension cables up to a length of 1.5 m featuring a core cross section of at least 25 mm².

Mounting of the extension cable ¨ Plug the female connector of the extension cable on the male connector of the switch-connector combination (9). Â ¨ Thread the extension cable through the strain relief (10) as a loop and hang it up. Â ¨ Make sure that the extension cable has enough free motion.

Switching on / off Do not use any device where the switch can not be switched on and off. Damaged switches must be repaired or replaced immediately by the customer service. The device is equipped with a safety circuitry preventing inadvertent switching on. Only start the machine when it is placed on a flat lawn area with short grass (shorter than 4cm) and without obstacles.

Working instructions

¨ Tilt the scarifier slightly towards you so that the front wheel are above the ground. Push the safety button (11) and keep it depressed. Next, pull the switch lever (12) toward the handle hoop. The scarifier starts and the scarifier drum can rotate freely. ¨ Now release the safety button (11).

Switching off When you release the switch lever (12) it returns automatically to its original position.

Motor protection The motor is equipped with a protective circuit breaker and switches off automatically in case of overloading. After a cooling-down break (approx. 15 min), the motor may be restarted.

Before commencing work, ensure the following: ƒ You may not start to operate the machine until you have read these operating instructions, observed all the instructions given and installed the machine as described! ƒ Provide for a safe and cleaned workplace. Remove from the working area objects which might be thrown off. ƒ Before starting your work make sure that: − the tools and bolts are not worn or damaged. To avoid any unbalance worn or damaged tools and bolts must only be replaced as a whole set. − drum and blades are in proper condition − all screw connections are tight − no other persons or animals stay within the working area, − you can always step back without any barriers, − you have always a secure standing position.

Release the switch lever (12) because the device will otherwise restart immediately after it has cooled down. Risk of injury!

Always keep your hands and feet at a safe distance to the rotating tool.

Setting the work depth Before settings the work depth: − switch off device − wait until the drum is stationary  Adjust the work depth by pressing the adjusting knob (13) and simultaneously turning it to your desired position. Position 1 2 3 4 5 6

Work depth -5 mm -2,5 mm 1,5 mm 4 mm 7 mm 10 mm

L Set the work depth according to the grass and ground conditions at both running wheels.

Recommended work depths: Regularly scarified soft ground; without stones Seldom scarified mossy ground; with stones Uncultivated very mossy; with stones

Position 5/6 3/4 1/2

Set a lower work depth when the motor is straining (motor speed drops and motor noise changes). Example: Work depth set to 5 Î change to 4

If persons who have blood circulation problems are too often exposed to vibrations damages to the nervous system or to blood vessels may occur. You can reduce vibrations − by thick and warm working gloves, − shorter working time (have longer breaks). See a doctor if your fingers swell, you don’t feel well or your fingers become numb.

Working with the scarifier Scarifying

Using the scarifier drum, the device can be used as scarifier to remove mats and mosses in the lawn and to cut through wild growth with low roots. To enable the growth of a healthy lawn in spring, the absorption of water, air and nutrients in the root area needs to be increased. We recommend scarifying the lawn in spring and autumn. To achieve good results and to extent the life of the scarifier drum, the lawn should be mowed before scarifying (shorter than 4 cm).

L Do not scarify when the lawn has been freshly sown or when it is wet or too dry.

Risk of injury by flying around objects. Make sure that the impact guard is closed and the collecting bag is attached. • Place the scarifier at the edge of the lawn near the receptacle. • Move the cable after each turn to the opposite already scarified side. Â • Select the work depths according to the condition of the lawn (see “Setting the work depth”). 15

• Make sure not to place excessive strain on the scarifier. L In case of excessive strain, the motor speed drops and the motor noise changes. Î Stop and release the switch lever Î Wait until the scarifier drum stands still Î Set a lower work depth • Move the scarifier at an appropriate uniform speed in straight lines across the lawn. L The lawn surface will be damaged if you let the scarifier run too long at one spot. • In case of uncultivated very mossy lawn, move once more across to the rows setting the work depth then to a higher position (e.g. from 4 to 3) • When working on slopes, always position yourself perpendicular to the incline and ensure safe footing. Do not scarify on steep slopes. • Empty the grass catching bag when it is full to prevent the blades from being blocked and subsequently the motor from being overloaded. • Mow the lawn once more after scarifying. • Reseed blank spots that may have developed after scarifying. • Fertilize the lawn only after fresh grass seeds have put down roots.

L Risk of injury! Wear protective gloves when working on the scarifier drum. Remove the dirt with a cloth or brush. Clean the device immediately after finishing the work. Empty and clean the grass catching bag if necessary. Clean the bottom of the device and the scarifier. Clean the housing, especially the vent slots, from grass and dirt stuck to it. ƒ Do not clean the machine with running water or highpressure cleaners. ƒ Do not use solvents for the synthetic parts (petrol, alcohol, etc.) as these can damage the synthetic parts. ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

Transport Pull the mains plug prior to transport. The drum can be damaged during transport, e.g. on hard ground, even when the motor is switched off. Therefore set the work depth of the drum to position 6 during transport.

In any case, adhere to all safety notes (see "Safe working").

Maintenance and cleaning Before each maintenance and cleaning work: − switch off device − wait until the drum is stationary − pull out main plug Maintenance and cleaning activities beyond those described in this chapter may only be performed by customer service. For maintaining and cleaning, removed security devices must unconditionally be mounted properly and proved again. Use only original parts. Other parts can result in unexpected damages and injuries. To make sure that the device is in a safe condition regularly check the device for apparent defects such as − loose fastening elements (nuts, bolts, screws), − catching bag for wear or damaged parts, − worn or damaged components.

Maintenance Scarifier drum Risk of injury! Wear protective gloves when working on the scarifier drum. Worn blades reduce the performance of the device and put excessive strain on the motor. Therefore check the condition of the blades before each use. If required, have the scarifier drum replaced by a new one by your authorized service personnel. 16

Clean the device carefully after each use to ensure faultless function to be maintained.

Storage Pull out main plug. ƒ Store unused equipment in a dry, locked place out of the reach of children. ƒ In case of extended storage (e.g. during winter) ensure that the device is protected against frost and corrosion. ƒ Before extended storage, please observe the following to increase the service life of the device and to ensure smooth operation: − thoroughly clean the device − Treat metal parts after each use against corrosion using an environmentally friendly biologically degradable spray oil.

L Never use any grease!

To facilitate space-saving storage of the device, you can fold down the handle hoop. For this, loosen the machine knobs (5) until the upper handle hoop (1) can be folded down on the body. Â

Possible faults Before each fault clearance − switch off device − wait until the drum is stationary − pull out main plug

After each fault clearance, put into operation and recheck all security installations. Fault Device doesn't start

Possible cause  no power  Extension cable defect  Main plug, motor or switch defect  Protective motor switch has tripped

The device operates with  Extension cable defect interruptions  Internal fault. Unusual sounds

Remedy  Check power supply, power socket and fuse protection  Check extension cable, exchange defect cable immediately  Have main plug, motor or switch checked by an approved electrician or replaced by original spare parts 1. Work depth too deep  reduce work depth 2. Drum blocked  remove the blockage 3. Grass too long  mow the grass  Allow the motor to cool down approx. 15 minutes before continuing to work  Check extension cable, exchange defect cable immediately  Please contact the after sales service.

 ON/OFF button defective.

 Please contact the after sales service.

 Remove the blockage

 Toothed belt slips

 Please contact the after sales service.

 Loose screws, nuts or other fasteners

 Tighten all parts; contact customer service if the noises continue to occur.

 Cutting blade damaged or dull

 Please contact the after sales service.

 Work depths too deep

 Set a lower work depth

 Mow the lawn before thatching

Unsatisfactory verticulating  Work depth too low result  Dull blades

 Set a greater work depth  Please contact the after sales service.

 Discharge opening blocked  Lawn too high

 Empty the grass catching bag and remove the blockage  Mow the lawn before thatching

Motorrating P1 Mains voltage / Mains frequency

Grass catching bag capacity

according to EN 786 Sound levels at the work-place LPA (according to 2000/14/EC)

Sound levels LWA (according to 2000/14/EC) measured sound power level

guaranteed sound power level

Dimensions (length x bright x height) Weight Protection class

II (protective insulated)

Degree of protection

Description of device / spare parts Pos. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Denomination Upper handle hoop (with switch-plug unit) Lower handle hoop Screw M6x45 Washer A6.4 Machine knob M6 Cable holder Impact guard Grass catching bag (optional accessory) Switch-plug unit (VDE) Switch-plug unit (CH) Cable strain relief Safety knob Switch handle Work depth adjusting knob Scarifier drum complete with blades Spring (for impact guard) Wheel Hub cap Wheel cap Ball bearing

381510 381511 381566 381570 381522 381563 381569 381553

Pos. 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

Guarantee Please observe the enclosed terms of guarantee. 18

Denomination Bearing holder – right Dust cover Bearing holder – left Axle holder Handle Axle Adjusting plate Connecting rod Supporting bar Wheel holder Condenser Sealing plug Body cover Spring (for impact guard) Fixing rod (for impact guard) Screw M6x12 Spring ring A6 Spring – right (for impact guard) Spring – left (for impact guard) Safety label

Order-no. VT 36 VT 40 381520 381551 381550 381519 381549 381516 381517 381547 381514 381545 381512 381513 381544 381521 381552 381523 381554 381525 381543 381530 381506 381538 381535 381502 381534 381505 381504 381558

A. Pollmeier, management