Aeration and scarification are important operations in the provision and maintenance of healthy turf. The following product review, devised by SGM’s Commercial Manager, Joe Coyle, evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of the John Deere Aercore 800 for turf maintenance operations.
With a more powerful engine - a 25hp Kohler - and smoother, more efficient operation, plus the bonus of easier maintenance, the new John Deere Aercore 800 has many improvements over the original.
The Aercore is based on the same type of heavy-duty frame and tine rams as John Deere's tractor-mounted aerators but gives the choice of a lighter unit for use on cricket squares, golf greens, tennis courts and bowling greens. Having four selectable forward working gears, the machine is reasonably fast.
It is very easy to lift and lower the head and the machine takes the contours well because the aerating unit is in line with the wheels. It took a bit of persuading on the turns, but the transport speed is good. Vibration was noticeable during operation.
John Deere tells us it can cover 1,440sq m an hour in second gear and with 2x2-hole spacing, travelling at 1mph. The transport speed is good and really gets you moving between greens. Drive chain tensioning is automatic to give more positive engagement between the transmission and drive wheels - the result is improved hole spacing patterns and straighter lines.
Now sporting standard drive tyre core deflectors, the Aercore will displace hollow cores in the path of the drive tyres. This should make cleaning up easier. We also appreciate the flexibility to add a verticut attachment to complete two jobs in one.
Maintenance could not be simpler. There are no greasing points - just check filter, oil and fuel. Hollow, open-sided, solid, cross and needle tines are available.
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