I've gone through four of these piles of plastic geared junk. Burnt through one per month. The plastic gears wear right out. Switch to a national walking sprinkler and never looked back!
I didn’t need much help with these for a few years so mine are okay BUT this week I was starting to dig out my yard equipment for the springtime and, well, I decided that the time has come for me to step up to the National Walking Sprinkler Version. I ordered one and as soon as it arrives I’ll get to work in an all-new “In Depth Review”.
Update: I went ahead and purchased the Orbit version of this traveling sprinkler (the green one) and, indeed, it works just the same way as the Nelson version (the yellow one in this video). The Orbit version has a better warranty, if I'm not mistaken, and the paint job has stayed shiny longer than the paint on the Nelson version.
Thanks for doing this video and for this update. I am really considering if the "National Walking Sprinkler" is worth the extra cost. It would be nice not dealing with stripped parts but the B-5 model just seems so expensive at $190+.
@@kevinm8865 My Nelson finally bit the dust and I decided I was going to buy one from National this time. Sadly, they have closed their doors and are no long making the high end ones. I was quite disappointed to see that when I looked last week.
I wonder if a 3-D printer could easily recreate those gears. Or, if the tolerance isn't very tight, when the gears are new, maybe coat them with epoxy or fiberglass resin.
These are actually pretty good and durable sprinklers if used within their limits. I killed a 2 of them before I figured it out myself. The KEY is to recognize the limits of the transmission, the weight of the sprinkler, and how much traction it can get.... how much hose is trailing behind the unit is the crucial part here. If you start trailing 60-70ft of hose loop behind it, that adds up to a LOT of pulling weight, then eventually one wheel will start digging a hole, the other one grabs, and the gears gets stripped. So again, the KEY is to go check on it every 2 hours or so (on low speed), and pull all the extra trailing hose from under it... which can be done from a distance without having to turn it off. I try not to let the trailing loop get any more than about 30-40ft long in total hose length (or a 15-20ft long loop MAX). Since doing that, I've been using the same unit now for almost 15 years with no failure... although the coupler on top that spins is now starting to leak from being just flat worn out. My guess is that this sprinkler probably has at least 2000 hours of constant running on it, so thats not bad... all things considered. One more warning: On a few occasions the stop block has failed to turn the sprinkler off... and eventually it will go somewhere it's not supposed to be, or run into a tree or something and trash the transmission... It's iffy.. especially if you have a lot of water pressure, the "kill valve" on the bottom will just glide up over the stop ramp and keep going. so don't trust it. Ever.
I found a better solution: Use a lightweight hose that pulls easily. I've been running 100' of a cheap medium duty hose and a Flexzilla leader for several years with no problem. The short segment of Flexzilla is the loop behind the sprinkler (added because it is kink resistant), so the sprinkler is able to travel the full length of the 100' hose. It takes about 5 1/2 hours to travel the full length of the hose on low. With about a 30' diameter, that's a little over a half an inch to 3000 sq ft. With my first travelling sprinkler, I used a heavy duty hose that murdered transmissions. Once I figured this out, and changes hoses, I adopted this way of managing it, and it's done very well. Two passes on successive nights gives a good deep watering that will keep drought resistant grasses alive for a couple of weeks of a Texas summer. I wish it had a *slower* speed, so I could water a larger area deeper on one pass - 1" to a 40' wide section 100' long would be perfect. I could water the entire lawn in a week, then put the sprinkler away and pray for a week.
I have had 2 of these for 15 years used on my 2+ acre yard with trees here and there and sloped 5 to 7 degrees. Yes you do have to monitor it somewhat. it can jump the track but only if the turn is too tight, it is pulling over 100’ of hose or it sinks down in a soft spot or mole hole. These have served me well until my yard man tossed one to the side and broke the plastic nut that holds the arms on. Just be aware of these points and you will never waste money on any other sprinkler.
Hello Nelson thank you I found one of these things I don't know where I got it it's an old one even the wheels are metal it's been sitting around for a couple years I just decided to hook it up today I'm using one of those stretch hoses not sure if it's enough pressure but based on your video it probably is because the arms are spinning however it squeals and squeaks and I don't believe it's moving. Your video was exactly what I was looking for I so appreciate it you took all my guesswork away I know exactly what to do thank you for taking the time to do a good detailed video if you have any suggestions for me based on what I've told you please share have a blessed day
I've found that different gears will strip, you can frankenstein a complete gearbox by mixing the gears from ones that have stripped different gears. But I hate those push nuts! I might use a collet the next time I fix one.
Thanks do much. I've had my sprinkler for minimum 15yrs. The 3/8 Allen is is the secret I was missing. My sprinkler is leaking through the weep holes. Any idea why? Either way I'm tearing it down. Thanks again
Sorry I called you Nelson brother I see your name is Greg So I went out and played with my new old reigning train and it turns out by watching your video and listening reading all of the comments I've got an old version with metal wheels and apparently my gears are not stripped this thing has slowly walked across the yard doing exactly what it's supposed to do here video and conversation has helped me greatly have my little novelty sprinkler walk across the yard have a blessed day
buy one at a garage sale if it waters very well but it doesn't walk the gears are in perfect condition I want to know what happens how can I make it walk
If there’s nothing broken inside the gear box then make sure the switch on top is set to either high or low (but not the middle, neutral position) and make sure the sprayers are spinning clockwise as you look at it from above. Then it should move forward as the sprayers spin. If not, then maybe something inside the gear box is stripped after all.
This wouldnt be a good choice for grass seed that is germinating right? Im guessing the heavy hose dragging behind it would kill new grass sprouts??? Also how wide does it cover with each pass? Ty
Thanks soooo much for your Rain Train how to! Iv'e had it sitting in my garage for years because it stopped moving.Then the other day, my cheap oscillating sprinkler broke while I was pulling the hose back after finishing watering. So I grabbed it out of the garage and went to TH-cam and watched your clip. I was able to fix it with some superglue and a very thin slice of Gorilla tape over all of the smaller sprocket that was your issue (about 3 inches or so) Now it works great!! Going to have to replace my repaired hose though, due to the large connectors that get in the way.. always something. Haha... but it will be well worth it! Thanks again, and I will check out all your videos from now on! Dan S
Hi there, this is a helpful video. The stopper is stuck on my tractor sprinkler and wondered if you have any advice on how to get it unstuck? Disassemble the thing like you did to see if it is dirty or ? Thank you for any help you can provide.
I took mine apart,,, and found a bunch of hard grease,,, the gears were ok,, but the grease kept it from turning... Now my question is,,, Is the grease necessary? and if so,, what should I use??? Thanks in advance for your help with this...
Thanks for posting! I couldn't figure out how to pull the two halves apart. Then I said to myself, "TH-cam it". Mine had that damned stripped drive gear, but I bought a box of parts off eBay and there are at least five or six rebuilds in the 'collection'. Plus wands, worm gears, etc. I find that you have to baby sit these things; pulling up the hose, helping it through turns, cleaning off grass runners, and such. Let's hope this last rebuild holds up, but I am ready if it crashes. Thanks again.
I found one in someone's garbage so I jumped out and got it. Now I can take it apart. Saw one at yardsale for 10$ but was jb welded together,should have got it.
JB WIELD WILL NOT GLUE TO NYLON, matter of fact I don't think anything does glue to nylon, not for any amount of time. Anyways this is is about one of the best reviews done. thanks
Oh! So that’s why my Rsin Train tranny won’t come apart: there’s a “submerged” 3/8” Allen fastener down in the outlet port. Thx. for the heads-up on that!
The National Walking Sprinkler company makes multiple versions of their unit and not all of them are all metal. The top of the line model seems to have the steel worm gear from the photos on their site, but some of the other models, although they *say* "steel gear", the photo still looks like they are using the white nylon worm gear. www.nationalwalkingsprinkler.com/product-category/models I have the Nelson model and I have never had a problem with the gears stripping out. Maybe because I check on it every hour or so and pull up the hose because I typically don't put out enough hose to cover the entire backyard unattended. Maybe because I don't drag the unit across the yard with the gear box engaged? I could see how that could cause a problem for some people who don't pick up the unit and carry it to the next location. Or maybe it's just because I don't water my lawn as much as I should... :)
I know it's been a while since you posted this video. But I've noticed that my front wheel assembly seems to have quite a bit of play in it. The bolt isn't loose, and it doesn't appear damaged but I thought I'd see if this seemed normal to you or any one else reading the comments. I've had mine sprinkler for several years with pretty light usage over that time.
i bought a groundworks machine, well it worked for about 25 feet, the watering arm kept binding up, after a few times of this i took it apart,used vaseline to lubricate it, still kept binding up, took it back to the store, now have a yellow nelson on order, will let ya know how it works. thanks for the indepth review.
I need Attachment Nuts for the arms..I can not find that part alone.Seems i have to but a new arm kit unless you can tell me another way of fixing the arms.
I had the Craftsman version of this which lasted about four seasons pulling 100 feet of 5/8" hose. The gears stripped and I cannot justify spending ~$40 for an entire gearbox when all I need is one gear. Also, the fact that they only make plastic (which will break again) is enough for me to stop giving them my money. I have decided to invest in the metal version you mentioned. It cost me ~$160 shipped, however, as long as I keep the rust off, it will last a lifetime. Good vid, btw.
I know this is an old review but do you still recommend the extra money for the "National Walking Sprinkler" brand models? I am seriously considering the B-5 but am afraid of being stuck with it if it doesn't work.
Thanks for the video ! I have one and it kicked the bucket today ! I had it since 2007 ! I think it is time to get another and salvage my old one for the spare parts ! Thanks again for sharing.
I plan to layout 250' of hose to water a large areas- most are flat and smooth on low cut bermuda, but do have one place where there is like a 2% grade- do you think it would climb that.-I have 100 psi at bib so good pressure
I'm betting that the gears are stripping because the entire rear axle is "live"...as in no differential. Combine a less than flat surface, a curve or 2 and ectrrmely cheap brittle chinese plaxtic and you've got broken gears. There needs to be some give in the drivetrain somewhere so the gears are not taking all of the stresses. Perhaps instead of having the wheel mounted to the axle, some sort of soft rubber/latex could be inserted between the axle and the wheel. Axle would have to be machined (or simply filed) down to allow for the soft coupler to be inserted.
Excellent video - thanks Greg! I have one of these Nelson Tractors (in England they cost $230 not $60)! Mine takes nearly 2 hours to travel just 45 feet set on “high” with good water pressure. I dread to think how long it would take on the “low “ setting. Also, it has never once turned off on the ramp, either falling off or, more often, stopping half way up in the air spraying water upwards until I turn off the water! Any ideas on either of these two problems?
I don't aim the water very high so the arms turn relatively quickly. Then the whole unit moves more quickly than if the arms were spraying higher. Maybe yours loses speed too much trying to climb the ramp. Are you aiming it to spray the water very high?
Unfortunately, the National Walking Sprinkler website says they're going out of business. You can still purchase their sprinklers from their website, though several of them are indicating "out of stock". My parents had a Nelson sprinkler growing up, though I think it only got used when I wanted to get it out and set it up to watch it run. :) I say that because I think the thing is older than I am (32 in 2020) and the paint is still yellow, if chipped. I'm wondering, though, if the plastic gears are the issue, if there's a current patent on the design, or if someone could reverse-engineer the gearbox and build one out of metal as a drop-in replacement (the way the plastic ones are). I would imagine all that's necessary to reverse-engineer the parts is a caliper and a CAD program. I also wonder if they're plastic to avoid rust issues from the water supply system leaking into the gearbox. As long as it won't rust, a metal replacement gearbox will probably cost as much as an entire new unit, but last as long as a National Walking Sprinkler without failure.
Sad to see that they went out of business. As of now, all of their models show as Out of Stock. An alternative if someone is handy with a 3D printer would be to just print replacement gears and swap them out.
@@nova31337 A "best-of-both-worlds" solution would be if someone has a 3D printer that can print metal (I hear those are a thing, now). The only question would be how the strength compares to forged/cast metal.
Yes, it looks like a tractor but I’ve seen variations which look even more like a tractor. Maybe the next time I need to paint it I’ll try a Thomas the Tank Engine pattern. My kids would get a kick out of that.
I think it could handle a long hose, but probably not more than 200 feet. The only real problem when it runs over the top of the hose connector is that the connector might press against the shut-off button on the bottom, which would stop the water from flowing. I have mine set so that it can go about 100 feet in 5 or 6 hours. Every morning I move the hose/track to another spot in the yard and every evening I turn it on again.
@@GoodTimekeeper When it follows the hose, is that following its own hose? Meaning, do I take it out as far as the hose is long, and connected too, then turn it back on it's own hose or do I need to setup a different hose for routing?
The sprinkler starts at the far end of the hose and runs toward to faucet end. At first it’s pulling just a short piece of its own hose as it moves but, as it keeps going, it has to pull more of the hose which, of course, is full of water.
Do the arms spin clockwise (when viewed from above)? I once had one that wouldn't spin as fast as it should. Turns out there was a rubber O-ring inside that was a little too big for the space it was in. I replaced it with a thinner O-ring and it was okay after that.
The Rain Train I had was different - the front cast iron part was covered in a resin and the gearbox was cast aluminum and I never had any issues with stripped gears. They sure don't make them like they used to.
Love my Nelson Rain Train, it can water my half-acre lawn in two days on High. I have found lighter hoses work better, much better in fact.
Orbit is made in China, Nelson is made in the USA, this is why I went with Nelson
I've gone through four of these piles of plastic geared junk. Burnt through one per month. The plastic gears wear right out. Switch to a national walking sprinkler and never looked back!
I didn’t need much help with these for a few years so mine are okay BUT this week I was starting to dig out my yard equipment for the springtime and, well, I decided that the time has come for me to step up to the National Walking Sprinkler Version. I ordered one and as soon as it arrives I’ll get to work in an all-new “In Depth Review”.
Unfortunately National Walking Sprinkler has closed it doors. No parts available either.
You can remove the caps by using 2 pairs of vise grips and twisting both sides at the same time while pulling.
Update: I went ahead and purchased the Orbit version of this traveling sprinkler (the green one) and, indeed, it works just the same way as the Nelson version (the yellow one in this video). The Orbit version has a better warranty, if I'm not mistaken, and the paint job has stayed shiny longer than the paint on the Nelson version.
Thanks for doing this video and for this update. I am really considering if the "National Walking Sprinkler" is worth the extra cost. It would be nice not dealing with stripped parts but the B-5 model just seems so expensive at $190+.
@@kevinm8865 My Nelson finally bit the dust and I decided I was going to buy one from National this time. Sadly, they have closed their doors and are no long making the high end ones. I was quite disappointed to see that when I looked last week.
@@funkyzero 😥 bummer. Thanks for the heads-up!
does it work on sand ??? i would like to get it for my horse ring !
Thanks for your effort to share your experience.
Finally bought one at auction tonight. $3. Missing the arms. We'll see how it works.
I wonder if a 3-D printer could easily recreate those gears. Or, if the tolerance isn't very tight, when the gears are new, maybe coat them with epoxy or fiberglass resin.
SuperN0va better off having someone with a cnc machine make them out of delrin. Somewhat flexible and self lubricating.
I'm 5 years late. Just finished recreating a burned gear. The one on the far right. Used PLA. So yes, let me know and I'll send you guys the stl file.
it's actually the same one in the video.
These are actually pretty good and durable sprinklers if used within their limits.
I killed a 2 of them before I figured it out myself. The KEY is to recognize the limits of the transmission, the weight of the sprinkler, and how much traction it can get.... how much hose is trailing behind the unit is the crucial part here. If you start trailing 60-70ft of hose loop behind it, that adds up to a LOT of pulling weight, then eventually one wheel will start digging a hole, the other one grabs, and the gears gets stripped.
So again, the KEY is to go check on it every 2 hours or so (on low speed), and pull all the extra trailing hose from under it... which can be done from a distance without having to turn it off. I try not to let the trailing loop get any more than about 30-40ft long in total hose length (or a 15-20ft long loop MAX). Since doing that, I've been using the same unit now for almost 15 years with no failure... although the coupler on top that spins is now starting to leak from being just flat worn out. My guess is that this sprinkler probably has at least 2000 hours of constant running on it, so thats not bad... all things considered.
One more warning: On a few occasions the stop block has failed to turn the sprinkler off... and eventually it will go somewhere it's not supposed to be, or run into a tree or something and trash the transmission... It's iffy.. especially if you have a lot of water pressure, the "kill valve" on the bottom will just glide up over the stop ramp and keep going. so don't trust it. Ever.
I found a better solution: Use a lightweight hose that pulls easily. I've been running 100' of a cheap medium duty hose and a Flexzilla leader for several years with no problem. The short segment of Flexzilla is the loop behind the sprinkler (added because it is kink resistant), so the sprinkler is able to travel the full length of the 100' hose. It takes about 5 1/2 hours to travel the full length of the hose on low. With about a 30' diameter, that's a little over a half an inch to 3000 sq ft.
With my first travelling sprinkler, I used a heavy duty hose that murdered transmissions. Once I figured this out, and changes hoses, I adopted this way of managing it, and it's done very well. Two passes on successive nights gives a good deep watering that will keep drought resistant grasses alive for a couple of weeks of a Texas summer. I wish it had a *slower* speed, so I could water a larger area deeper on one pass - 1" to a 40' wide section 100' long would be perfect. I could water the entire lawn in a week, then put the sprinkler away and pray for a week.
$80 in 2022, based on quality I thought it would be worth in the $120 range
I have had 2 of these for 15 years used on my 2+ acre yard with trees here and there and sloped 5 to 7 degrees. Yes you do have to monitor it somewhat. it can jump the track but only if the turn is too tight, it is pulling over 100’ of hose or it sinks down in a soft spot or mole hole. These have served me well until my yard man tossed one to the side and broke the plastic nut that holds the arms on.
Just be aware of these points and you will never waste money on any other sprinkler.
Bravo. Well done. You did the work required to create a good succinct message and collection of facts. Bravo.
Hello Nelson thank you I found one of these things I don't know where I got it it's an old one even the wheels are metal it's been sitting around for a couple years I just decided to hook it up today I'm using one of those stretch hoses not sure if it's enough pressure but based on your video it probably is because the arms are spinning however it squeals and squeaks and I don't believe it's moving. Your video was exactly what I was looking for I so appreciate it you took all my guesswork away I know exactly what to do thank you for taking the time to do a good detailed video if you have any suggestions for me based on what I've told you please share have a blessed day
I've found that different gears will strip, you can frankenstein a complete gearbox by mixing the gears from ones that have stripped different gears.
But I hate those push nuts! I might use a collet the next time I fix one.
Thanks do much. I've had my sprinkler for minimum 15yrs. The 3/8 Allen is is the secret I was missing. My sprinkler is leaking through the weep holes. Any idea why? Either way I'm tearing it down. Thanks again
Sorry I called you Nelson brother I see your name is Greg So I went out and played with my new old reigning train and it turns out by watching your video and listening reading all of the comments I've got an old version with metal wheels and apparently my gears are not stripped this thing has slowly walked across the yard doing exactly what it's supposed to do here video and conversation has helped me greatly have my little novelty sprinkler walk across the yard have a blessed day
buy one at a garage sale if it waters very well but it doesn't walk the gears are in perfect condition I want to know what happens how can I make it walk
If there’s nothing broken inside the gear box then make sure the switch on top is set to either high or low (but not the middle, neutral position) and make sure the sprayers are spinning clockwise as you look at it from above. Then it should move forward as the sprayers spin. If not, then maybe something inside the gear box is stripped after all.
Its not working your grass is dead lol
This wouldnt be a good choice for grass seed that is germinating right? Im guessing the heavy hose dragging behind it would kill new grass sprouts??? Also how wide does it cover with each pass? Ty
Thanks soooo much for your Rain Train how to! Iv'e had it sitting in my garage for years because it stopped moving.Then the other day, my cheap oscillating sprinkler broke while I was pulling the hose back after finishing watering. So I grabbed it out of the garage and went to TH-cam and watched your clip. I was able to fix it with some superglue and a very thin slice of Gorilla tape over all of the smaller sprocket that was your issue (about 3 inches or so) Now it works great!! Going to have to replace my repaired hose though, due to the large connectors that get in the way.. always something. Haha... but it will be well worth it!
Thanks again, and I will check out all your videos from now on!
Dan S
Hi there, this is a helpful video. The stopper is stuck on my tractor sprinkler and wondered if you have any advice on how to get it unstuck? Disassemble the thing like you did to see if it is dirty or ? Thank you for any help you can provide.
I took mine apart,,, and found a bunch of hard grease,,, the gears were ok,, but the grease kept it from turning... Now my question is,,, Is the grease necessary? and if so,, what should I use???
Thanks in advance for your help with this...
Great video!!!
The transmission on mine just gave out so I was looking for info and bam - surprised to see Mr. G-Shock with the breakdown!! Great vid.
Great video!!
Thanks for posting! I couldn't figure out how to pull the two halves apart. Then I said to myself, "TH-cam it". Mine had that damned stripped drive gear, but I bought a box of parts off eBay and there are at least five or six rebuilds in the 'collection'. Plus wands, worm gears, etc. I find that you have to baby sit these things; pulling up the hose, helping it through turns, cleaning off grass runners, and such. Let's hope this last rebuild holds up, but I am ready if it crashes. Thanks again.
I found one in someone's garbage so I jumped out and got it. Now I can take it apart. Saw one at yardsale for 10$ but was jb welded together,should have got it.
JB WIELD WILL NOT GLUE TO NYLON, matter of fact I don't think anything does glue to nylon, not for any amount of time. Anyways this is is about one of the best reviews done. thanks
Oh! So that’s why my Rsin Train tranny won’t come apart: there’s a “submerged” 3/8” Allen fastener down in the outlet port. Thx. for the heads-up on that!
Where do I go to order parts
Can you just buy the gears not the whole trans case
I haven’t seen the gears for sale but I keep hoping someone with a good 3-D printer might do some experiments.
Nice video explaining how to breakdown and replace parts. I’m looking for information in the stop valve on the underside of the tractor.?
The National Walking Sprinkler company makes multiple versions of their unit and not all of them are all metal. The top of the line model seems to have the steel worm gear from the photos on their site, but some of the other models, although they *say* "steel gear", the photo still looks like they are using the white nylon worm gear.
www.nationalwalkingsprinkler.com/product-category/models
I have the Nelson model and I have never had a problem with the gears stripping out. Maybe because I check on it every hour or so and pull up the hose because I typically don't put out enough hose to cover the entire backyard unattended. Maybe because I don't drag the unit across the yard with the gear box engaged? I could see how that could cause a problem for some people who don't pick up the unit and carry it to the next location. Or maybe it's just because I don't water my lawn as much as I should... :)
Sadly, it looks like the company has gone out of business.
I know it's been a while since you posted this video. But I've noticed that my front wheel assembly seems to have quite a bit of play in it. The bolt isn't loose, and it doesn't appear damaged but I thought I'd see if this seemed normal to you or any one else reading the comments. I've had mine sprinkler for several years with pretty light usage over that time.
i bought a groundworks machine, well it worked for about 25 feet, the watering arm kept binding up, after a few times of this i took it apart,used vaseline to lubricate it, still kept binding up, took it back to the store, now have a yellow nelson on order, will let ya know how it works. thanks for the indepth review.
I need Attachment Nuts for the arms..I can not find that part alone.Seems i have to but a new arm kit unless you can tell me another way of fixing the arms.
I just bought a used one at a 2nd hand store, I hope the gears aren't stripped.
My tractor is leaking from the top so much that it causes a mud hole and it gets stuck. Are their O-rings that need to be replaced?
I received my sprinkler yesterday. It derailed a couple of times. I have now nicknamed it George Jones.
I had the Craftsman version of this which lasted about four seasons pulling 100 feet of 5/8" hose. The gears stripped and I cannot justify spending ~$40 for an entire gearbox when all I need is one gear. Also, the fact that they only make plastic (which will break again) is enough for me to stop giving them my money. I have decided to invest in the metal version you mentioned. It cost me ~$160 shipped, however, as long as I keep the rust off, it will last a lifetime.
Good vid, btw.
I know this is an old review but do you still recommend the extra money for the "National Walking Sprinkler" brand models? I am seriously considering the B-5 but am afraid of being stuck with it if it doesn't work.
Thanks for the video ! I have one and it kicked the bucket today ! I had it since 2007 ! I think it is time to get another and salvage my old one for the spare parts ! Thanks again for sharing.
I plan to layout 250' of hose to water a large areas- most are flat and smooth on low cut bermuda, but do have one place where there is like a 2% grade- do you think it would climb that.-I have 100 psi at bib so good pressure
Yes it has a gearbox that makes tons of torque but very low speed
I'm betting that the gears are stripping because the entire rear axle is "live"...as in no differential. Combine a less than flat surface, a curve or 2 and ectrrmely cheap brittle chinese plaxtic and you've got broken gears. There needs to be some give in the drivetrain somewhere so the gears are not taking all of the stresses. Perhaps instead of having the wheel mounted to the axle, some sort of soft rubber/latex could be inserted between the axle and the wheel. Axle would have to be machined (or simply filed) down to allow for the soft coupler to be inserted.
I help mine along with the turns and the hose drag, but you are right, you have to babby them. Not fully automatic.
Excellent video - thanks Greg! I have one of these Nelson Tractors (in England they cost $230 not $60)! Mine takes nearly 2 hours to travel just 45 feet set on “high” with good water pressure. I dread to think how long it would take on the “low “ setting. Also, it has never once turned off on the ramp, either falling off or, more often, stopping half way up in the air spraying water upwards until I turn off the water! Any ideas on either of these two problems?
I don't aim the water very high so the arms turn relatively quickly. Then the whole unit moves more quickly than if the arms were spraying higher. Maybe yours loses speed too much trying to climb the ramp. Are you aiming it to spray the water very high?
Unfortunately, the National Walking Sprinkler website says they're going out of business. You can still purchase their sprinklers from their website, though several of them are indicating "out of stock". My parents had a Nelson sprinkler growing up, though I think it only got used when I wanted to get it out and set it up to watch it run. :) I say that because I think the thing is older than I am (32 in 2020) and the paint is still yellow, if chipped. I'm wondering, though, if the plastic gears are the issue, if there's a current patent on the design, or if someone could reverse-engineer the gearbox and build one out of metal as a drop-in replacement (the way the plastic ones are). I would imagine all that's necessary to reverse-engineer the parts is a caliper and a CAD program. I also wonder if they're plastic to avoid rust issues from the water supply system leaking into the gearbox. As long as it won't rust, a metal replacement gearbox will probably cost as much as an entire new unit, but last as long as a National Walking Sprinkler without failure.
Sad to see that they went out of business. As of now, all of their models show as Out of Stock. An alternative if someone is handy with a 3D printer would be to just print replacement gears and swap them out.
@@nova31337 A "best-of-both-worlds" solution would be if someone has a 3D printer that can print metal (I hear those are a thing, now). The only question would be how the strength compares to forged/cast metal.
Thanks for the tutorial! SO much help!!
is it just me but i thought it was a rain tractor
Yes, it looks like a tractor but I’ve seen variations which look even more like a tractor. Maybe the next time I need to paint it I’ll try a Thomas the Tank Engine pattern. My kids would get a kick out of that.
@@GoodTimekeeper The kids would love it. Im in the process of fixing mine as we speak just so the grandkids can run in the water. Have a good day
Awesome review. Its everything you need to know.
Thanks. Going to buy one.
Would putting oil in the box with grease or 90 weight help extend the life of the the gear box
Steven Corbett doubt it, I can all but gaurantee the gearbox is anything but sealed.
Does this work well with multiple hoses attached? Meaning will it roll over the hose connectors very well? Also how long does it take to go 100 feet?
I think it could handle a long hose, but probably not more than 200 feet. The only real problem when it runs over the top of the hose connector is that the connector might press against the shut-off button on the bottom, which would stop the water from flowing. I have mine set so that it can go about 100 feet in 5 or 6 hours. Every morning I move the hose/track to another spot in the yard and every evening I turn it on again.
@@GoodTimekeeper When it follows the hose, is that following its own hose? Meaning, do I take it out as far as the hose is long, and connected too, then turn it back on it's own hose or do I need to setup a different hose for routing?
The sprinkler starts at the far end of the hose and runs toward to faucet end. At first it’s pulling just a short piece of its own hose as it moves but, as it keeps going, it has to pull more of the hose which, of course, is full of water.
@@GoodTimekeeper Thanks
Great, thorough review! I want one.
necesito parts
Pew have one but can't get it to move
Do the arms spin clockwise (when viewed from above)? I once had one that wouldn't spin as fast as it should. Turns out there was a rubber O-ring inside that was a little too big for the space it was in. I replaced it with a thinner O-ring and it was okay after that.
The Rain Train I had was different - the front cast iron part was covered in a resin and the gearbox was cast aluminum and I never had any issues with stripped gears. They sure don't make them like they used to.
I had one like that too but someone ripped it off. To add insult to injury, they cut the hose with a knife.
Did he identify himself as "your old pal???
REALLY~?? Why on earth would anyone presume such a pointless honorific?
How do you know who I was talking to?