Rain Bird 42SA+ Overview
The Rain Bird 42SA+ is a gear-driven rotor sprinkler designed for residential use, offering a 26-38 ft spray range. Its adjustable arc covers 40 to 360 degrees, providing efficient watering for medium to large lawns. The 42SA+ also features Rain Curtain nozzle technology for uniform water distribution.
Key Features of the Rain Bird 42SA+
The Rain Bird 42SA+ boasts several key features that make it a reliable choice for lawn irrigation. It has a 3/4 inch female threaded inlet and a 4-inch pop-up height, which helps to clear taller grass for unobstructed water flow. The water-lubricated, gear-driven design ensures quiet and dependable operation. Furthermore, its self-flushing feature at pop-down helps remove debris, maintaining consistent spray efficiency. The sprinkler’s Rain Curtain nozzle technology produces large, wind-resistant droplets for consistent coverage and reduced water waste. It is designed for easy top adjustments with a flathead screwdriver, allowing for arc adjustments from 40 to 360 degrees, and spray distance adjustments from 26 to 38 feet. The 42SA+ features both part-circle and full-circle operation, further increasing its flexibility and making it ideal for a wide range of lawn sizes and shapes. Additionally, the rotor provides superior durability and exceptional watering uniformity, helping to maintain a greener lawn.
Adjusting the Spray Arc
Adjusting the spray arc on the Rain Bird 42SA+ involves setting both the left and right edges of the watering pattern. This process is done easily using a flathead screwdriver, allowing for precise customization of the coverage area.
Locating the Adjustment Mechanism
The adjustment mechanism for the Rain Bird 42SA+ rotor sprinkler is conveniently located on the top of the sprinkler head. This design allows for easy access and adjustments without the need for any specialized tools, though a flathead screwdriver is recommended. Specifically, the mechanism consists of a central rubber cap, which when manipulated, allows for the alteration of the spray arc. This cap is typically marked with a plus and minus symbol to help guide users during the adjustment process. The specific components involved in the arc adjustments are the center cap and the radius reduction screw. The center cap is utilized to define the left and right edges of the spray pattern, while the radius reduction screw helps control the spray distance. Understanding the location of these adjustment mechanisms is the first and essential step to customize the watering pattern to your specific lawn’s needs. The intuitive design of the adjustment mechanism makes it user-friendly, facilitating quick and efficient fine-tuning of the spray pattern. The simplicity of the adjustment location is an advantage of the 42SA+ design, allowing users to easily optimize their lawn irrigation.
Setting the Left Edge of the Arc
To set the left edge of the spray arc on your Rain Bird 42SA+ rotor sprinkler, begin by identifying the center cap on the top of the sprinkler head. This cap serves as the primary control for adjusting the arc’s left edge, which marks the starting point of the sprinkler’s rotation. Initially, the left edge is fixed and needs to be located by rotating the center cap all the way to the right until it stops. Then, turn the cap to the left until it stops. This position represents the fixed left edge. This fixed left edge cannot be adjusted, but it is important to understand as a starting point for adjusting the right edge of the arc. The left edge defines the path and provides a precise point; By understanding the left edge, you will have a proper base for adjusting the rest of your desired watering area. This step is crucial before making changes to the right edge, ensuring that your adjustments are accurate and effective for optimal lawn coverage. This process is important to ensure the sprinkler covers the intended area.
Adjusting the Right Edge of the Arc
After establishing the fixed left edge, you can adjust the right edge of the spray arc on your Rain Bird 42SA+ sprinkler. This adjustment is crucial for controlling the overall area covered by the sprinkler. Locate the adjustment mechanism, which is the center cap on the sprinkler head. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully turn the center cap. To move the right edge clockwise, turn the cap in a clockwise direction; to move it counterclockwise, turn the cap in a counterclockwise direction. The right edge determines the end point of the sprinkler’s rotation. Adjust it to ensure that water is only applied to the desired area, avoiding areas such as sidewalks, driveways, or buildings. This precise adjustment helps conserve water and promotes efficient irrigation. Make small adjustments and monitor the spray to ensure you achieve the desired coverage. Fine-tuning the right edge will help with overall performance. This ensures the most effective water distribution. By correctly adjusting the right edge, you can maximize the efficiency of your sprinkler system.
Adjusting the Spray Distance
The Rain Bird 42SA+ allows for easy adjustment of the spray distance, ranging from 26 to 38 feet; This is achieved using a radius reduction screw, typically located on the top of the sprinkler head. Adjustments are made with a flathead screwdriver.
Identifying the Radius Reduction Screw
The radius reduction screw on the Rain Bird 42SA+ rotor sprinkler is a crucial component for adjusting the spray distance. This screw, typically located on the top of the sprinkler head, is designed to regulate the water flow and, consequently, the distance the water is thrown. It’s usually a small, flat-head screw, often made of plastic or metal, and is distinct from other adjustment mechanisms on the sprinkler. Look for a screw near the nozzle area, usually within a recessed area or clearly marked with a plus and minus symbol, indicating the direction to turn for increasing or decreasing the spray radius. This screw is easily accessible and designed for simple adjustments using a standard flathead screwdriver. The screw may be positioned directly on the nozzle, or adjacent to it, depending on the specific model and design variations. It’s essential to locate this screw accurately before attempting to adjust the spray distance, as other screws might control the arc or other aspects of the sprinkler’s performance. Identifying the radius reduction screw correctly ensures that you are modifying the spray distance and not another parameter of the sprinkler’s operation.
Using a Flathead Screwdriver for Adjustment
A flathead screwdriver is the primary tool for adjusting the spray distance of the Rain Bird 42SA+ rotor sprinkler. To begin, gently insert the flathead screwdriver into the radius reduction screw, ensuring it fits snugly. To reduce the spray distance, turn the screw clockwise, which restricts the water flow and shortens the throw. Conversely, turning the screw counterclockwise increases the spray distance by allowing more water to pass through the nozzle. Make small, incremental adjustments, as a slight turn can result in a noticeable change in the spray range. Observe the sprinkler’s performance after each adjustment and fine-tune as needed to achieve the desired coverage. When turning the screw, be gentle and avoid forcing it to prevent damage to the adjustment mechanism. It is recommended to make adjustments while the water is running to observe the spray distance directly, this will help to dial in the correct distance for your specific watering needs. This process ensures that you achieve the optimal watering distance and prevent water waste by ensuring you are only watering the areas that need it.
Nozzle and Maintenance
The Rain Bird 42SA+ nozzle can be changed using a flathead screwdriver and needle-nose pliers. It also features a self-flushing action during pop-down, which clears debris and maintains optimal spray efficiency. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance.
Changing the Nozzle on the 42SA+
To change the nozzle on your Rain Bird 42SA+ rotor sprinkler, you’ll need a flathead screwdriver and a pair of needle-nose pliers. First, use the screwdriver to gently lift the nozzle housing, exposing the radius reduction screw. Next, turn the radius reduction screw to release the nozzle, which should now be easily removable. If needed, use the needle-nose pliers to grip and pull the nozzle out. When installing a new nozzle, align it correctly within the housing and make sure it’s securely in place before retracting the nozzle housing. This process is straightforward and allows for easy customization based on your lawn’s specific watering needs. Additionally, ensure that the nozzle is firmly installed to prevent any issues with water distribution. Remember to always turn off the water supply before changing nozzles. Following these steps helps maintain the efficiency of your sprinkler system.
Understanding the Flushing Feature
The Rain Bird 42SA+ incorporates a self-flushing feature designed to clear debris and maintain optimal spray efficiency. This feature manifests as a slight leak through the adjustment hole when the rotor head retracts. This is not a malfunction but a deliberate design to flush out any particles that may have accumulated during operation. The flushing action ensures that the internal mechanisms remain free from blockages, which can lead to uneven watering patterns or premature wear. This self-cleaning process is crucial for the longevity and consistent performance of the sprinkler. It reduces the need for manual cleaning and keeps the sprinkler operating efficiently. The flushing feature is a built-in safeguard and should not be mistaken for a leak. It is a vital part of the maintenance, keeping the sprinkler operating smoothly and ensuring a reliable watering experience for your lawn. Regular inspection can help identify if the flushing function is working properly.
Troubleshooting and Support
For troubleshooting, address low head drainage issues by checking for proper installation. For technical assistance, Rain Bird provides support at 1-800-RAINBIRD or (866) GSP-XPRT. They also have online resources like manuals and videos available on their website.
Addressing Low Head Drainage
Low head drainage, a common issue with rotor sprinklers, occurs when water continues to seep out of the sprinkler heads after the system is shut off. This can lead to water waste and potential damage to the lawn. The Rain Bird 42SA+ has a built-in feature designed to minimize this, but if you’re experiencing persistent low head drainage, a few steps can be taken. First, ensure that the sprinkler heads are installed correctly with proper backflow prevention devices. Check for any debris or obstructions in the pipes or sprinkler head that might cause water to leak out. Often, a simple cleaning can resolve the problem. If the problem persists, consider using check valves at the base of the sprinkler heads or within the piping system to prevent water from draining back. Also, consider consulting a qualified irrigation specialist who can properly diagnose and remedy any complex issues with your system. It’s important to address this problem promptly to reduce water waste and maintain the integrity of your sprinkler system.
Contacting Rain Bird Technical Support
If you encounter issues with your Rain Bird 42SA+ sprinkler that you cannot resolve through basic troubleshooting, reaching out to Rain Bird Technical Support is a valuable resource. They offer assistance for a wide range of problems, from complex malfunctions to general questions about setup and usage. You can contact them via their toll-free number, 1-800-RAINBIRD (1-800-724-6247), which is available Monday through Friday from 5 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time. This direct line allows you to speak to a knowledgeable representative who can provide specific guidance based on your situation. Before calling, have your product information readily available, including model number and details about the problem you are experiencing. You can also explore their online support center, which features manuals, literature, and videos to help you resolve common issues. Rain Bird Technical Support aims to assist customers with efficient and effective solutions.
