[Jimbo]

I am looking for a good walk-behind aerator and was wondering if anyone has feedback on the Lawnaire 5. How well does it pull a plug? Any pricing info?

I am looking at one with a 4HP Honda engine and a 26.5" width for $2700.00

Thanks
Jimbo

 

[GLAN]

We have 2 IV's

Very nice machine.

 

[SUGAR_CUT_MARK]

check out the lesco one. i'm not sure of the model # but it's pretty huge, and has a split drive!

 

[turfsolutions]

We have been using Ryan aerators for the last 7 years. Both the IV (narrow) and V (Wide) models. I prefer the wider Ryan in 8 out of 10 situations. The most expensive Ryan model (not sure the name of) which has the funky looking handle bars, we have not used. However, I talked to a Lawn Doctor guy the other day who owns one and he and his guys hate it. If it hits a root it jerks hard upward, putting a lot of strain on the hands and wrists. They prefer the IV and V models as well. As for the split drives, be careful. The split drives only make it "easier" on large, wide open lawns. The added weight actually makes it much more difficult on the smaller lawns. We used Classen split drives when they first came out and hated them. They weigh 70 pounds more than the Ryans and they kicked our butts. Nobody liked them.

 

[walker-talker]

I would not make a decision until you have looked serious at the Plugr by Rock Solid. Send off for the free video tape and literature. They might be just slightly more, but I think they are 30" wide, larger engine and possibly easier to operate. I do not own one, but test drove one and loved it. I cannot say that I have operated a Ryan. I would at least take a look at them before you made a decision.

Good luck
MATT

 

[SUGAR_CUT_MARK]

Hmm interesting. i have used the Ryan Lawn Aire IV, which i thought was ok. it kicked my A%$, especially around turns. i would have to raise it on the wheels around every turn.

On the other hand, the Classen split drive was a bit heavier, but it had a good 4 horse Honda motor, and when u wanted to turn it was alot easier. The classen split drive was faster too. Just my $.02. I/m not sure of teh Classen model, but it was red.....

 

[SUGAR_CUT_MARK]

.

 

[walker-talker]

The Plugr was similar to running a 21" mower, but with left and right braking....like a gear drive.

MATT

 

[Craig Turf Management]

I've had the same Ryan LawnAire V since 1998! It's a work-horse. It starts on the second pull every time, and all I have done to it is replace the chains, belt and tensioning sprocket. I keep grease in every bearing without fail, and change the oil once per year. I've got the Briggs engine. The thing I like the most, is the fact that I can put a guy to work with it and he can't tear it up.
Bill Craig

 

[jsr2741]

I just took delivery of a claussen split drive. Lesco copied this machine in every way.

The claussen was $2900 out the door, lesco wanted $3099 and thats without tax.

 

[Turfdude]

You'll love that machine/engine combo. Mine paid for itself first year. Pulls a great plug. Only a pain on smaller areas w/ lots of turns (engage, disengage, repeat )

 

[walker-talker]

Originally posted by jsr2741
I just took delivery of a claussen split drive. Lesco copied this machine in every way.

I don't think Lesco copied Classen, but think the Classen units are produced them for Lesco. Anotherwards, change the color of paint and sells to them.

MATT

 

[gunputt]

Lesco aerators are made by Claussen.

 

[mtdman]

I bought a Ryan V this year, with the Briggs engine. I got a huge deal on mine, $2250, because the Ryan IV I ordered was sold to someone else. I've been using mine for about 2 weeks now, and it's a great machine. I used the IV last year, and the V really has a lot of power and pulls great plugs. And it's fast! My only complaint is that it really gives you a workout, it's almost too powerful. And it isn't great in smaller areas. But get it out in the open and the thing just hums. Great machine.

 

[KerryB]

I have used the Ryan IV and its an awesome machine. Pulls a great plug but is hard to turn and gives you a hard workout that you will feel for several days.lol
I used the Plugger by Rocksolid as well. Lighter machine was easier on the operator. It does however tear up the lawn in turns but nothing that is so bad as to not recommend it.
Not sure how it will hold up in the long run but I know the Rysn is a tank, its very hard to tear one up if you keep it greased.

 

[Clean Cut Lawns]

I paid 2775 including tax for mine. I love it.
On its 3rd. year and no probs.

 

[Hamons]

I use the Plugr Pl800 -- about $2700. Pulls plugs ou of anything -- includign tree roots.


Much easier on your body then a lescos, Classen, or Ryan.

 

[sodzilla]

Dealer quoted me $2800 on a lawnaire V. Found a used one,(1year old ),in great shape with the Brigg's engine for $1800.

 

[dodge2003]

I have an older lawnaire 5.
I thought the gear box was low so I filled it halfway with 90 weight, now the oils is leaking everywhere.
What should the capacity and oil type be used?

Thanks!