1. Overview
A power rake (also known as a mini landscape rake or soil conditioner) is a hydraulically powered drum attachment that pulverizes soil, removes debris, and levels surfaces in a single pass. On mini skid steers, power rakes offer professional-grade ground preparation in tight-access or delicate work areas where larger machines are impractical.
2. Applications
- Turf and seedbed preparation
- Grading compact areas (yards, gardens, paths)
- Removing small rocks, roots, and debris
- Repairing and leveling rutted or damaged soil
- Light trench backfilling and smoothing
3. Compatibility
3.1 Mounting
| Mount Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mini Universal Plate | Standard for most compact loaders (Ditch Witch, Vermeer, Toro Dingo, Boxer, etc.) |
| Bobcat MT Interface | Proprietary plate on Bobcat mini skid steers (MT series) – adapters may be required |
Always verify the rake’s mounting plate matches your loader or use a universal adapter if necessary.
3.2 Hydraulic Requirements
| System | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 8 – 14 GPM |
| Hydraulic Pressure | 2,000 – 3,000 PSI |
| Couplers | ⅜” or ½” flat face quick connect (common on mini loaders) |
Ensure your mini loader’s auxiliary hydraulic output matches the rake’s flow and pressure requirements.
4. Key Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Drum with Teeth/Bars | Rotating element that pulverizes soil, levels, and moves debris |
| End Plates | Contain material and help guide debris collection |
| Hydraulic Motor | Drives the drum via skid steer’s hydraulic circuit |
| Gauge Wheels | Allow adjustable depth and contour following for consistent finish |
| Mounting Frame | Connects rake to machine and supports drum and motor |
5. Operation
5.1 Setup
- Attach the rake securely using the quick-attach plate.
- Connect hydraulic hoses and confirm coupler size and direction of flow.
- Adjust gauge wheels and rake angle (if available) to desired finish level.
- Test drum rotation and confirm correct operation before engaging soil.
5.2 Working Technique
- Operate at low speed (1–2 MPH) for best results.
- Keep drum just above the surface for light finish work or lower for full scarification.
- Use overlap passes to ensure consistent coverage.
- Backdrag to smooth surfaces and eliminate rake marks.
Many mini power rakes are bi-directional—use forward for aggressive work, reverse for finishing.
6. Safety Guidelines
- Wear appropriate PPE: gloves, safety glasses, boots, and hearing protection.
- Do not exceed the weight or flow capacity of your mini loader.
- Keep bystanders and pets clear of the work area—debris can fly.
- Avoid operating near soft edges, trenches, or downhill slopes.
- Always shut off hydraulics before clearing jammed debris or performing inspections.
7. Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Inspect drum teeth or bars | Daily |
| Check hydraulic hoses and couplers | Daily |
| Grease pivot points & bearings | Every 10 hours |
| Clean debris from drum and guards | After each use |
| Inspect motor mounting hardware | Weekly |
| Check drum alignment and wear | Weekly |