AL-KO 38P Combi-Care Review 2-in-1 Petrol Lawnrake/ Scarifier
Summary
The AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE is a convenient petrol powered scarifier and lawn rake designed for lawn up to 1,200m². The large 55L collection box will make collecting a breeze. Switching between functions is quick and easy as the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE uses a cassette system for the roller attachments necessary. No tools are needed and changing applications will take no time at all.
The petrol engine means that there are no cables to worry about and you have the freedom to move easily.
In this review of the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE lawnrake / scarifier I will take you through all the features and functions, then share with you the good and not so good aspects of this petrol lawnrake. It’s always good to know exactly what you are getting with this lawnrake/scarifier, how well it works and who it’s best suited to, before spending your hard earned cash.
Main Features
The 53cc petrol engine delivers decent power and gives you the freedom of no electrical cables and no hassle of charging batteries frequently. The machine is powerful and effective yet still easy to move around the garden. It weighs a mere 20kg.
The AL-KO 38P will scarify, aerate and rake your lawn. As it does that, it has a large collection bag to collect the thatch and other waste as you go. This will reduce time and effort in your lawn care.
The lawnrake and scarifier attachments are separate rollers, in the form of cassettes, making them easy to change without the need for tools. It has an operational width of 37cm for raking and 38cm for scarifying. The scarifier can be adjusted through 5 height settings.
The fabric collection bag is a generous 55 litres.
Assembly of the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE
The assembly for the AL-KO 38P is fast and easy. Only a screwdriver is required.
Step 1 – screw the lower handle bar to the housing of the scarifier.
Step 2 – fit the grab handle to the lower handle using the plastic hand-adjusted wing nuts.
Step 3 – secure the cable to the handle bar using the supplied cable tie.
Step 4 – assemble the collection box catcher by inserting a metal frame and attach it to the back of the scarifier.
Step 5 – you must put oil in the motor before starting the machine.
Step 6 – fill the tank with fuel. TIP – type and quantity are given in the Operating Instructions.
Step 7 – for new start, longer non-operational periods or temperatures below 10 degrees, press the 2 primer buttons on the side of the machine.
Step 8 – tilt the scarifier back and set the working depth using the nob (for new blades set to a maximum level 2).
Note – protective glasses and ear protection should be worn whilst using the AL-KO 38P.
- 3inone Function: Scarifying, Lawn Raking and Collecting
- Tool-less cassette changes
- Scarifying and Lawn Raking cassettes included
- Collection Box included
- Petrol engine for cable-free work
Last update on 2024-12-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Power and Engine System
A 1.3 kW 4 stroke 53cc petrol engine delivers power to the AL-KO 38P. This will give you enough power and functionality to tackle most sized lawns up to 1,200m².
Model Comparison Table
Last update on 2024-12-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Blades/Drum System
There are two attachments in the form of cassettes. They can be changed around in a few seconds and no tools are required to do this.
The lawnrake attachment is a drum with sprung steel tines. This is used to remove thatch, moss and other surface materials for a neater lawn. The process makes it easier for nutrients to penetrate into the soil resulting in a happier and healthier lawn.
The scarifier attachment has 14 durable steel blades. These get down to the grass roots. No tools are needed to change from one to the other and swopping the cassettes is quick and hassle-free.
Height Adjustment
The height can be adjusted to the ideal height in order to scrape the area below the grass. This will remove weak and dead grass creating space for new healthy lawn growth.
Adjusting the height is simple and fast. The correct working depth will depend on the condition of the lawn and the wear on the blades. You will know if the working depth is incorrect as the shaft will stop or the engine will stall.
TIP – always mow the lawn before scarifying and always scarify across the slope.
To give you a visual representation of the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE please watch the video below:
Scarifying and Raking Diameter
The AL-KO 38P has an effective width of 38cm for scarifying while the raking area is 37cm. This is a decent size to make it fast and effective to use without sacrificing on manoeuvrability.
It will make quick work of your scarifying and raking needs whilst still being nimble and easy to operate.
To change the scarifier narrator roller remove the bearing screw and then tilt the bearing half’s upwards. You can then lift the scarifier roller and extract it from the drive side, reverse this sequence to fit the alternative roller.
This AL-KO 38P is ideal for medium to large lawns.
Collection Box Capacity
The kit comes with an easy to attach and detach fabric bag. The large 55L capacity means fewer trips to empty the bag and faster work.
Practicalities
There are a number of features that make this an extremely practical and easy to use garden tool. The 53cc engine is powerful enough to make operation relatively effortless whilst still keeping it light enough to be easy to move around. Changing the drums to switch from raking to scarifying could not be faster or easier thanks to the cassette system.
Scarifying height can be adjusted with ease on the twist dial for the perfect height. Not only does this make the process more effective and prevent damage to the lawn, it also extends the life of the blades.
For less strain and greater comfort, the handles can be adjusted to the ideal height for the operator. It also makes the unit more compact and easy to store when not in use.
The fabric collection bag is light and large at 55 litres. It is easy to attach or detach for fast emptying out. The design, particularly the smooth underbody makes the AL-KO 38P easy to keep clean. Thatch, dirt, and debris do not stick to the plastic deck and are therefore easy to wipe away. The unit has ample ventilation to ensure the engine does not get too hot.
Safety Features
The adjustable handles and light design make the AL-KO Petrol Lawnrake / Scarifier easy and safe to use. The unit comes with an operation manual and provided the instructions are followed and basic care is exercised it is perfectly safe to operate.
Maintenance and Care
As with all petrol engines, maintenance and care is required in order to keep your lawnrake / scarifier working reliably and efficiently. The air filter and spark plug may need to be cleaned or replaced at some point in the future. Details of regular maintenance can be found in the Operating Manual.
Note – always disconnect the spark plug and wear protective gloves before carrying out any maintenance or cleaning work.
Alternative (Electric) Options
As an alternative to the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE is the Einhell GC-SA 1231 1200 W Electric Dual Purpose Scarifier and Lawn Rake/Aerator. This is an electric model so you will be restricted by the cable and enjoy less freedom.
It is easy to use and produces a bit less power at 1200 Watts. The collection bag is only 28L so you will be making more trips to empty it out. It comes with a 10 metre cable and has a foldable steering bar for easy storage.
It is a bit lighter so will be somewhat easier to move but the cable will add additional effort and hassle. For small gardens, this might be an option but it cannot beat the ease of use of a powerful petrol scarifier like the AL-KO 38P.
The feedback on the alternative electric Einhell GC-SA 1231 is a bit mixed. While many people love it others were not impressed with its performance. Much will depend on the size of your garden, the condition of your lawn and your personal requirements.
For more details on the differences between the petrol and electric versions of this lawnrake, then take a look at the model comparison table above.
What’s Included in the box?
- AL-KO Petrol Lawnrake / Scarifier Combi Care 38 P
- Scarifying Roller
- Spring Tine Raking Roller
- 55L Collection Box
- Operation Manual
Manual Download for the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE
Click Here to Download the AL-KO 38P COMBI-CARE User Manual
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
This is a popular and highly rated Lawnrake / Scarifier Combination. The petrol engine and lightweight design make it comfortable and easy to use. It is effective and extremely versatile. It is user-friendly and changing the blades or adjusting heights is a breeze.
Should You Buy This Model?
The benefits of scarifying are worth the effort and the AL-KO 38P makes it easy and relatively fast. Combined with the convenient raking feature the machine is a worthwhile investment for a luxurious healthy lawn. If you have a medium to large sized lawn and want to keep it in tiptop condition, this will be an effective way to achieve that.
Where Should I Purchase this Model?
- 3inone Function: Scarifying, Lawn Raking and Collecting
- Tool-less cassette changes
- Scarifying and Lawn Raking cassettes included
- Collection Box included
- Petrol engine for cable-free work
Last update on 2024-12-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Not sure about this Lawn Scarifier? Click here for more Lawn Scarifier reviews.
Additional Specifications
- Engine – AL-KO 144F 53cc Petrol
- Power – 1.3 kW
- Weight – 20 Kg
- Dimensions -106cm x 109.3cm x 55.2cm
- Body Material – Plastic
- Fabric Collector Bag Capacity – 55 L
- Working Width – 38cm scarifying + 37cm raking
- Scarifying Roller – 14 Steel Blades
- Lawnrake Roller – 24 Steel Spring Tines
- Height Adjustment – 5 heights
As a seasoned expert in the field of garden power tools, I have dedicated over a decade to working with and reviewing a wide variety of lawn mowers. My extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the benefits and limitations of different types of mowers and garden tools.
Over the years, I have honed my skills in writing informative articles and creating helpful videos for various blogs and publications. This has given me the ability to not only recognise what makes a good lawn mower, but also to help you choose the perfect garden tool for your specific needs and requirements.
With my wealth of knowledge and expertise, I am confident that I can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations when it comes to selecting the right lawn mower for your lawn. So, whether you're looking for a battery cordless, electric, petrol, or robotic mower, you can trust in my expertise to guide you towards the best option for your garden.
