Decent tow behind broadcast spreaders

[zuiko]

Is there such a thing? I have the "125 lb" agrifab spreader with pneumatic tires that you see pretty much everywhere for about $150 (its the push version, not the tow version, but I think they are identical other than the pushing/pulling hardware) and I am not happy with it.

The plastic gearbox is really weak. The two axle shafts end in the plastic gearbox which has sagged/worn to the point where the axle is no longer straight and wobbles. As a result the whole unit doesn't work very well any more. Maybe it is the result of overloading but I never put anywhere near 125 lbs in it. Maybe 80# at the most.

Is anybody out there making a spreader with a strong (preferably metal) gearbox? Or any ideas to fix the agri-fab? Not sure what I could do besides replace the gearbox... and it doesn't look like it is really made for anything on it to be replaced.

 

[MMagis]

There are some very good quality spreaders made, but you won't find them in a box store or at Northern Tool and such places. Places that sell professional lawn care equipment would have them, but I think many are more expensive than the average land owner can justify. Every once in a while I see one for sale on Craigslist or Ebay.

 

[zuiko]

I might give this one a shot. It says it has a metal gearbox and the gearbox is even grease filled.

Amazon.com: Precision Products TBS6000RDOS 6-Series 130-Pound Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Rain Cover: Home Improvement

The only thing I'm not sure about is that there are some complaints about the agitator not working to good with grass seed which would be one thing I would want to use it for (the others being salt and fertilizer) but I could maybe work around that.

 

[lawnmod]

I use a Brinly Hardy 175lb broadcaster spreader and have found it very reliable.

 

[jwstewar]

How old is your Agri-Fab spreader?

I have their 175# version, bought it in '99. It has all metal gears and grease fittings on the axle. It has held up well. Only problem I've had with it is the on/off handle is too far to reach from the seat of my NH now. I use a telescoping pole with a hook on the end (at the place I bought it they called it a body pole - as in, used to pull dead bodies out of the water:ashamed. I use it to push/pull the handle as needed.