Wen DT1516 - User Manual

Megan GarzaJul 29, 2025

Why won't my Wen Lawn and Garden Equipment motor start?

A
Andrew KerrJul 29, 2025
If the motor of your Wen Lawn and Garden Equipment won't start, there are several possible reasons. First, ensure that the equipment is properly connected to a power source. Another reason might be that the safety lock button is not pressed. To resolve this, press the safety lock button and the switch lever at the same time to start the machine. If the power cord or plug is defective, or there is another electrical defect, you should contact customer service at 1-800-232-1195.

Summary

General Safety Rules

Work Area Safety

Rules for maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Electrical Safety

Precautions regarding electrical connections and usage.

Personal Safety

Guidelines for operator alertness, PPE, and proper handling.

Power Tool Use and Care

Proper usage, maintenance, and care of the power tool.

Service Information

Information on professional servicing and replacement parts.

California Proposition 65 Warning

Warning about potential chemical exposure and safety measures.

Dethatcher and Scarifier Safety Warnings

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Importance of GFCI for electrical safety.

Cord and Unit Handling Safety

Procedures for disconnecting the unit and safe cord handling.

Operational Best Practices

Using the right appliance, avoiding overreach, and proper grip.

Maintenance and Storage Safety

Keeping the unit clean, inspecting, and proper storage.

Polarized Plugs and General Operation Safety

Plug compatibility, slope operation, and staying alert.

Cord Awareness and Water Avoidance

Being aware of the cord and avoiding wet conditions.

Operational Hazard Warnings

Warnings about tines stopping time and potential chemical exposure.

Electrical Information

Double-Insulated Tools

Explanation of double-insulated tool design and safety.

Polarized Plugs and GFCI

Safety regarding polarized plugs and ground fault circuit interrupters.

Extension Cord Guidelines

Recommendations for selecting and using extension cords.

Know Your Dethatcher and Scarifier

Tools Purpose

Explains the function of the dethatcher and scarifier.

Component Identification

Diagram and labels for identifying tool parts and controls.

Assembly & Adjustments

Assembling the Handle

Step-by-step instructions for assembling the handles.

Attaching the Extension Cord Holder

Instructions for attaching the extension cord holder.

Installing the Thatch Bag

Steps for attaching and emptying the thatch bag.

Adjusting the Depth

How to adjust the cutting depth for different applications.

Operation

Connecting to Power Supply

Requirements for connecting the tool to a power source.

Connecting the Extension Cord

Steps for properly connecting the extension cord.

Powering On & Off

Instructions for starting and stopping the machine.

Overload Protection

Explanation of the overload protection feature.

General Operation Guidelines

Basic steps for safe and effective operation.

Scarifying Technique

How to scarify a lawn for optimal results.

Raking; Dethatching Technique

How to dethatch a lawn for better aeration and drainage.

Maintenance

Routine Inspection

Checks to perform before each use and seasonally.

Replacing; Changing the Blade

Instructions for removing and installing blades.

Troubleshooting Guide

Motor Does Not Start

Possible causes and solutions for the motor not starting.

Product Does Not Reach Full Power

Causes and solutions for low power issues.

Unsatisfying Result

Troubleshooting poor performance or results.

Exploded View & Parts List

Body Assembly

Exploded view diagram of the main body components.

Body Assembly Parts List

Detailed list of parts for the body assembly.

Blade Attachment Assemblies

Exploded view and parts list for blade attachments.

Motor Assembly Parts

Exploded view and parts list for the motor assembly.

Motor Assembly Handle Parts

Exploded view and parts list for the handle assembly.

This document is an instruction manual for the WEN DT1516 16-Inch Dethatcher & Scarifier, a tool designed to improve lawn health by removing debris and aerating the soil.

Function Description

The WEN DT1516 Dethatcher & Scarifier is a versatile lawn care tool that performs two primary functions: dethatching and scarifying.

Dethatching: This process involves using steel tines to gently rake and pick up thatch and other light debris from the lawn's surface. This improves aeration and drainage, which are crucial for healthy grass growth. Dethatching is less intense than scarifying and is recommended when the grass is actively growing and the soil has some moisture, typically in early spring or early fall in northern regions, and late spring through early summer in southern regions.
Scarifying: This is a more intense process where blades reach deeper into the ground to remove moss, fungus, thatch, and other unwanted buildup, while simultaneously cutting grooves into the soil. This action significantly improves drainage, aeration, and overall lawn growth. Scarifying is recommended in spring (April - May) when the lawn is actively growing and can recover quickly. If the summer is wet, scarifying can be done again in late summer or early fall with a decreased depth setting. It is advised not to scarify during periods of hot, dry weather.

The tool is designed for ease of use with features like adjustable handle height and depth settings. It includes a thatch bag for collecting removed debris, which should be emptied frequently. Overload protection is built into the machine, activating if there's a buildup of scarified materials, if the materials exceed motor capacity, or if there's too much resistance.

Important Technical Specifications

Model Number: DT1516
Motor: 120V, 60 Hz, 15A
Working Width: 16 Inches
Working Depth: Adjustable settings including +1/4", -1/8", -1/4", -3/8", -1/2". Negative depth settings indicate blades digging into the ground.
- Position 1 (High): 1/4" (Dethatching: Transport, removing thin thatch layers. Scarifying: Do not use.)
- Position 2 (Minimal): -1/8" (Dethatching: Dethatching healthy lawn. Scarifying: Do not use.)
- Position 3 (Medium): -1/4" (Dethatching: Storage and dethatching. Scarifying: Transport, storage, and scarifying.)
- Position 4 (Deep): -3/8" (Dethatching: Not recommended. Scarifying: Use for scarifying.)
- Position 5 (Deep): -1/2" (Dethatching: Do not use. Scarifying: Use for scarifying.)
No Load Speed: 3300 RPM
Power Cord: 14AWG, 0.35M UL Plug
Blade Count (Scarifier): 20
Steel Tines (Dethatcher): 24
Product Dimensions: 40.9 in. x 23.6 in. x 40.9 in.
Product Weight: 29.5 Pounds
Extension Cord Recommendations:
- 15A: 25 ft. (14 gauge), 50 ft. (12 gauge). 100 ft. and 150 ft. are not recommended by UL.
- A separate 12-gauge electrical circuit protected with a 15A time-delayed fuse is recommended for the tool.

Usage Features

Assembly: The handle assembly involves attaching lower, middle, and upper handles using handle cam knobs, washers, and bolts. The handle height is adjustable to three positions. An extension cord holder and cable clip are used to manage the power cord.
Powering On/Off: To power on, press the safety lock button on the side of the upper handle with one hand and simultaneously pull the switch handle towards the upper handle with the other hand. Both must be engaged for the machine to power on. Release the safety lock button after starting. To power off, gently release the switch handle.
Connecting to Power Supply: A proper outdoor-rated extension cord is required. The tool has a polarized plug, and the extension cord should match. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply is recommended. A knot should be made with the power and extension cords to secure the connection.
Operation:
- Before starting, ensure all accessories are secure, and mark any sprinkler heads, lights, or landscaping fixtures. Remove any hoses or obstacles from the lawn.
- Push the machine forward by its handle at a walking pace. Do not push too hard to avoid overload.
- Work in slight overlapping rows, preferably straight lines, to ensure even coverage.
- Ensure all air vents are clean and unobstructed to prevent overheating.
- Do not operate on a wet lawn.
- The tine cylinders continue to run after the switch handle is released; do not tilt or carry the unit until they have come to a complete stop.
Blade Changing: The dethatcher comes pre-assembled with the dethatching/raking blade. The scarifier blade is included separately. To change blades, unscrew the hex screws on the bottom of the dethatcher/scarifier body, carefully remove the blade bracket and blade, and then align the square end of the new blade shaft with the output gear's square hole. Secure with the blade bracket and hex screws. Safety gloves are essential due to sharp and hot tines.

Maintenance Features

Routine Inspection: Before each use, inspect the tool for loose hardware, improper mounting, misalignment, cracked or broken parts, or any other condition that may affect safe operation.
Lubrication: Lubricate the tines/blades and shaft once per season.
End-of-Season Check: Inspect the dethatcher/scarifier for damage before storing and repair or replace any damaged parts.
Cleaning:
- Clean the dethatcher/scarifier after each use. Failure to do so can lead to damage or poor performance.
- Never use a water hose for cleaning.
- Clean the underside of the tine guard and motor housing around the tines with a scrubbing brush and a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap and water mixture.
- Use a stiff brush or dampened cloth to remove soil and debris from the transmission and tines.
- Clean the vents on the motor housing to remove grass or dirt.
- After cleaning, wipe the tines and shaft dry and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as the motor not starting, the product not reaching full power, or unsatisfying results, along with possible causes and solutions. For persistent issues, contact customer service.
Replacement Parts: The manual includes exploded views and parts lists for the body, blade attachment, and motor assemblies to aid in identifying and ordering replacement parts. Note that parts that wear down over normal use are not covered under warranty.

Wen DT1516 Specifications

General

Brand	Wen
Model	DT1516
Category	Lawn and Garden Equipment
Language	English