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Plug Aerator · 48-inch · Spring Tines

Ohio Steel 48CP: The one for hard soil and large lawns

Ohio Steel 48CP · Columbus, Ohio

8.8/ 10

Spring-assisted tines flex forward on contact, enter the soil perpendicular to the surface, and flick the plug cleanly out. Straighter holes, more consistent depth, better results on clay. 200 lb weight capacity and a foot-operated lever make this the most capable residential plug aerator available.

Width48 in
Max weight200 lb
Depth2.5 in
Best for1+ acre, clay
Top Pick
Spring Tines 200 lb capacity Foot Lever 11-Gauge Frame

Plug Aerator · 40-inch · Replaceable Tines

Brinly PA-403BH: The right aerator for most lawns

Brinly PA-403BH · Jeffersonville, Indiana

8.3/ 10

24 heat-treated plugging spoons, 150 lb weight tray, individually replaceable tines. Bob Vila's tested top pick. The 20+ year forum reputation is the most persuasive argument for this machine — and when a spoon breaks, it's a $10 fix.

Width40 in
Max weight150 lb
Depth3 in
Best forUp to 1 acre
Best for Most
Replaceable Tines Bob Vila Pick 3 Rotating Sections Indiana Mfg

Plug Aerator · 48-inch · Self-Sharpening Tines

Agri-Fab 45-0299: Wide coverage, honest value

Agri-Fab 45-0299 · Made in USA

7.6/ 10

32 self-sharpening galvanized tines on a 48-inch frame. Cantilever handle you can operate from the seat. Most widely stocked at major retailers. Know the transport lever and weld quality caveats going in — inspect before first use.

Width48 in
Max weight140 lb
Depth3 in
Best forUp to 1 acre
Best Value
Seat-Operated Lever 32 Tines 3-Year Warranty Inspect welds first

Buying Guides & Problem-Solving
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Decision Guide
Tow-behind aerator vs. walk-behind — which is right for your lawn?
The walk-behind is more powerful per pass. The tow-behind covers ground faster with far less effort. Three questions decide it for most homeowners.
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How-To Guide
How much weight to add to a tow-behind aerator — and what to use
Too little and the tines skip. Too much and you bend tines. A soil-condition reference table and the four best weighting materials.
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How-To Guide
How many passes with a tow-behind aerator? (And when to do more)
One pass is almost never enough. Why two perpendicular passes are the baseline and how to know when you're done.