The Benchmark 13 Amp Electric Dethatcher (Model 5150-004) is a corded electric dethatcher designed for domestic use to dethatch lawns. It is not intended for dethatching hard materials such as steel rods, stones, or other hard materials that exceed its cutting capacity and could damage the tines.
Function Description:
The dethatcher is equipped with a 13 Amp motor that operates at a no-load speed of 3500 RPM. It features a 19-inch (47.5 cm) deck width and a 15-inch (38 cm) cutting width. The dethatching depth can be adjusted to five positions, ranging from -12 mm to +6 mm, allowing users to select the most suitable depth based on the lawn type and grass height. The dethatcher blade diameter is 5.2 inches (13.2 cm). It also includes a 45 L grass bag for collecting thatch, which can be operated with or without the bag. The product is double-insulated for safety.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Rating Voltage: 120 V~60 Hz
- Rating Current: 13 A
- No Load Speed: 3500 RPM
- Deck Width: 19" (47.5 cm)
- Cutting Width: 15" (38 cm)
- Dethatching Depth: -12 / -9 / -6 / -3 / +6 mm, 5 positions
- Dethatcher Blade Diameter: 5.2" (13.2 cm)
- Weight: 32 lb (14.5 kg)
- Grass Bag Capacity: 45 L
- Protection Degree: Double Insulation
Usage Features:
The dethatcher is designed for ease of use and safety. It features an upper handle, middle handle, and lower handle, which are assembled by tightening knobs and bolts. The handle height can be adjusted to three different installation heights at the base. An extension cord restraint holder and cable clips are provided to manage the power cord during operation.
To start the dethatcher, the safety lock button must be pressed simultaneously with pulling the switch lever back on the upper handle. Releasing the switch lever stops the unit. An overload protection system is integrated, which activates if there is a buildup of scarified material, if the material scarified exceeds motor capacity, or if there is too much resistance against the cutting device. In such cases, the product should be switched off, disconnected from the power supply, allowed to cool, and the cause eliminated before restarting.
The dethatcher should be pushed forward by its handle, ensuring the handle remains dry for a safe grip. Air vents must be kept unobstructed to prevent overheating. Users are advised to stop the machine immediately if disturbed by others entering the work area and allow it to come to a complete stop before putting it down. It is recommended to mow the lawn before dethatching and to fertilize afterwards. The lawn should be clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects that could damage the machine. The dethatcher should not be used on wet lawns to avoid material sticking and potential slips. For effective dethatching, the machine should be pushed slowly and at an appropriate speed, working in slight overlapping rows, typically in straight lines along one side of the lawn. When encountering flower beds, it is recommended to circle around them.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance is crucial for long and reliable service. Before any repairs or servicing, the machine must be switched off and disconnected from the power supply. Only original equipment replacement parts should be used.
Key maintenance tasks include:
- Tightness Check: All nuts, bolts, and screws should be kept tight to ensure safe working condition.
- Cooling: Allow the product to cool before storing.
- Thatch Bag Inspection: The thatch collection bag should be checked frequently for wear or deterioration.
- Part Examination: Regularly examine the product for worn or damaged parts and replace them for safety. Covers and guards must be undamaged and correctly fitted.
- Cutting Device: If the cutting device fails, repair should be carried out by an authorized facility. Do not clean the machine while it is running. The cutting device is subject to the most wear and should be checked regularly. If worn or blunt, it must be replaced immediately. Excessive vibrations indicate damage or imbalance of the cutting device, requiring inspection and repair or replacement.
- Storage: Store the machine in a dry, high, or locked-up place, out of reach of children. All screws and bolts should be cleaned and oiled before storage.
- Cleaning: Clean the machine with a brush or cloth; do not use solvents or water.
- Cord Inspection: Inspect the appliance cord and extension cords periodically for damage and replace if necessary.
- Handle Care: Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
When replacing the raking cylinder, safety gloves should be worn due to sharp and hot cutting devices. All bolts must be completely tightened before operating the machine. The raking cylinder is preassembled but can be changed. To replace it, loosen the inner hexagon on the bearing seat counterclockwise, remove the raking cylinder, align the rectangular hole of the comb blade with the square output shaft on the base, press the bearing on the grooming blade into the bearing seat, and tighten the hexagon socket screw clockwise.
The Benchmark 13 Amp Electric Dethatcher comes with a five (5) year limited warranty covering defects in material or workmanship, excluding expendable parts like blades, normal wear and tear, abuse/misuse, or careless/accidental mishandling. This warranty does not apply if the product is used for commercial or rental purposes. For customer service or technical support, users can call 1-833-818-4111 (Monday through Friday, 9am - 5pm, Eastern Standard Time).