Tru Mark's Trail Blazing Blog

During small engine setup and preventive maintenance procedures do you verify the revolutions per minute (RPM) setting to ensure optimum performance? Have you considered using a small tool to verify the engine RPMs and hourly usage? We found an inexpensive tool to help setup the "governor" on a Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP Overhead Valve (OHV) 4-cycle single piston drive unit for our RS-500F Out-in-Front Athletic Field Marking unit.

We are using the Tiny-Tach, standard model with reset feature, TT226R-2C, by Design Technology, Inc. This easy to implement unit can be connected to an engine using existing housing bolts/screws, a standard grounding wire for a common connection point, and a RPM sensing wire that is wrapped around the spark plug wire. We use this Tiny-Tach tool to verify that we are generating sufficient RPMs for battery charging in support of our 12-volt diaphragm pump operations. This is a valuable tool for Briggs & Stratton distributors and small engine repair specialists as it is offered in their B&S distributor catalog. Here are a couple features that make this a sure bet for small engine operations:

• Simple hour meter with tachomter that is just 1.5" tall by 3" wide
  
• RPM to 9,990 (we were looking for 3,600 RPMs on the B&S engine)
• Reset for the hour meter so we could transfer to other units as necessary
• Updates every 2.5 seconds
• Standard wire length is 6 feet for flexibility in securing the unit
  
• Estimated battery life is 5+ years
• One year warranty

We ordered directly from the website for $36.95 plus shipping and handling.

This should be one of those important yet inexpensive small engine tools for your overall tool kit inventory.

Labels: Product_Review, Turf _Tips

Have you found yourself in a situation where you could use more light on a subject while needing your hands free to accomplish important tasks? Here's an innovative product using new LED and battery technology while incorporating a familiar spring loaded clip solution, called the Clip N Lite system by Moneke Gear.

Everyone with a tool box, glove box, vehicle trunk, fishing boat, camping gear, repair and handyman shop will find an application for this very versatile and light weight solution to putting light on your target without having to use your hands.

• Every turf manager, golf superintendent, and lawn care specialist should have this tool issued to them when working in tight spaces, having limited daylight, and poor indoor lighting conditions. This product may be even more valuable than a traditional treble light when working in confined spaces.
• How about for you anglers looking for night crawlers at night wishing you had both hands free to capture and safeguard that precious fishing bait.
• Master craftsmen in the plumbing, carpentry, electrical, and HVAC business will find many uses for this light weight tool.
  
• All Boy Scouts should be equipped with this very handy device for those late night bathroom breaks, land navigation skills at night, and reading your scout handbook while in the tent before the next big day's merit badge events.

What makes this product so innovative and valuable to just about everyone?

• The Clip N Lite Hands Free LED 5-Ultra Bright White is Moneke Gear's most popular style offered in a black case with 5 ultra bright white LED's, 3-way switch, low beam emitting (3 LED's angled down 35 degrees) or high beam with all 5 LED's emitted.
• The low beam shines as a floodlight emitting a 10-foot circle at 20 feet and the high beam shines at a 15-foot circle at 20 feet.
• The well made clip provides clear line of sight when mounted below the bill of a cap, or clip the system to provide direct or indirect lighting.
  
• Clam shell packaged product includes 2 high performance CR2032 lithium batteries, 2 spare batteries and Moneke's unique battery storage case.
• 48hour battery life with 10 year shelf life
• 10,000hour LED bulb life
• Dimensions 3 3/8” Length x 2” wide / weight 1.5 oz

I found the best pricing for this time saving LED system at WalleyeFishingLure.com, home to Nebraska Custom Tackle.

Labels: Product_Review, Turf _Tips

We continue to receive positive feedback on our soccer field layout tool.

The original tool was built using the MS Excel spreadsheet formulas and focussed on starting with a center line through the center of the two goals and the center of the field.

The latest update comes from Norm Paquette of Dracut, Massachusetts who has converted the formulas to MS Excel macros, VBScripting and improved the visual layout of the tool. As long as you enable macros as an option within the security settings of the spreadsheet you should experience a very handy and time saving tool.

Norm has added some tips on the progression for staking out the field as well as stringing the intersections for painting. In addition he has added a formula for calculating the amount of aerosol and diluted bulk latex paint needed for the particular sized field. The paint usage formula calculates the linear feet and uses 300 linear feet per aerosol can and 400 linear feet per diluted gallon of bulk latex paint.

Here are a couple more improvements that Norm has incorporated into the original soccer field layout tool:

1) Added banner text box so a customer could identify an individual field

2) Changed format of stake locations to white fill with border so each stake location can be seen when printing in black and white

3) Enlarged field input box

4) Added note to input box to hit "enter" key when making a change otherwise dimensions won't reflect the change you just made

5) Allows for zero (0) entries for the goalie and penalty box dimensions for smaller sized fields, thus removing references to these staking positions.

6) A self-help string winder description similar to the Tru Mark Heavy Duty and Light Weight String Winders.

Please send us an email at TruMarkAthletic@gmail.com and we'll gladly send a link so you can download this latest upgraded soccer field layout tool to your desktop (we will not share your email address!).

Learn more about soccer field dimensions and laying out and striping a soccer field at Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker.

Labels: Product_Review, Turf _Tips

Have you ever visited another soccer facility and picked up some great operational tips?

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker recently visited the Portage Soccer Complex at 4422 Bishop Rd., Portage MI 49002. This community facility has been well designed and maintained with excellent field drainage, a central building for registrations, meetings, concessions and facility operations and maintenance, and hard surface parking with curbs. Field operations are primarily conducted by some dedicated volunteers, the ones I met were Vern Genisio and David Rice.

The Portage Soccer Complex is home to Portage Soccer Club and the AYSO Region 74. The complex has expanded with access to additional fields next door and a new indoor complex, Portage Soccer Zone.

With delivery of a Tru Mark self-propelled Model RS-500F Vern Genisio is incorporating another time and supply saving tool to his operations. He mentioned that the complex had invested in a new tractor to handle their aeration duties as well as their new pull behind mower. They recently invested in a deep tine aeration with sand top-dressing service to help with a two fields that weren't draining as well as expected.

Storage is always a challenge at most sport facilities. The Portage Soccer Complex has some well thought out and installed tools to help with their daily operations and year around storage requirements. From soccer goal nets to tool storage the facility personnel have integrated some space and time saving features.

Check out Vern's many Portage Soccer Complex facility operational and maintenance tools and equipment.

Review some additional images of the Portage Soccer Complex and the RS-500F Field Marking Operations. See how easy the unit is filled with field marking paint, the foot pedal operations, the floating paint shoe assembly in action, and "making a straight line in less time".

Please share your time saving tips and tricks.

Labels: Demos, Product_Review, Turf _Tips

Tried of cleaning up dugouts, sidelines, locker and conference rooms where the water and drink coolers and coffee maker have left their trails. Drink Bib saves time and minimize messes from drinking dispensers that drip their contents.

A very practical and easy to use tool that grounds keepers, facility managers, conference organizers, and caters are sure to find helpful with different events and drink dispensing operations. Check out some of the pictures for this clean-up saving and wet floor prevention drink bib molded plastic device.

The Drink Bib is made of a durable plastic that can be easily hand washed and will last through many uses. The Drink Bib is available in two colors, clear and black.

This innovative product could be used for fund raising activities as well as promotional and advertising opportunities.

Try out the Drink Bib and catch those messy drips.

Labels: Product_Review

Multi-functional standard and heavy duty metal drag mats solve traditional challenges with new design solutions.

Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker introduces the toughest Drag Mats in the sports field maintenance industry. These drag mats are an adaption from the conveyor belt manufacturing industry.

There are several unique construction designs introduced to help solve the traditional tasks of Baseball and Softball Infield Grooming, Landscaping, breaking down Turf Aerator Cores, Seed Bed Preparation, Dew Removal, and Grass Field Designs for special events.
These innovative design solutions include:
- One piece rivet free U-bar design allows for true reversibility
- Larger diameter rods increase drag mat strength and resists distortion
- Unique clinched edge design minimizes snagging and breakage, and
- Galvanized steel for longevity

The metal drag mats come in standard and heavy duty options. Standard size drag mats allow for a package delivery to continental US addresses.

Do you have a special requirement, then let us know as we can build to your specifications. Just send an email to: TruMarkAFM@eSelling4u.com with a subject title of Drag Mat Custom Specifications and your special needs to include your zip code for a total cost proposal including shipping and handling.

Labels: Product_Review

One of the first eco-friendly aerosol paints for natural turf application was introduced by Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker. For those youth sports organizations and facility managers requiring a more environmentally friendly aerosol paint application this newest water based product will meet the challenges. Tired of seeing traditional aerosol paint burning the grass then try Eco Stripe aerosol field marking paint. Besides the traditional white, Eco Stripe comes in blue, red, and yellow.

Each 20 ounce can holds 18 ounces of product and can be dispensed through the standard T-shaped spray tip using the traditional aerosol paint striper, spray wand, and by hand. The product normally ships within 2-3 days of the order if not sooner and 12 can case orders are delivered by FedEx Ground service. Check out the Eco Stripe water based aerosol Paint Product page to download a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) (PDF format). Larger quantities can be shipped by common carrier to reduce your per case costs. Contact TruMarkAFM@eSelling4u.com for a large quantity price quote.

Do you need to upgrade your aerosol paint striper then consider the Sharp Stripe All Terrain unit with over-sized pneumatic wheels and axle bearings.

Labels: Product_Review

The 2008 new year brought another round of Tru Mark product introductions, the newest sand bag barrier products. The two new additions were created based on customer feedback and requirements.

The 35 pound Inter-Lock Barrier (IB) sand bag is a modified 10 pound sand bag as if two had been sewn together. This new design improves the stacking integrity of multiple sand bags. This increases the barrier affect to the ballast material from environmental contamination thus allowing for multiple uses without suffering from growing organisms. The vinyl laminated fabric is even stronger than the earlier sand bag versions. It is easy to clean up and store. The 6 inch carrying strap allows for quick and easy relocation. Because of the side by side design this sand bag is ideal for holding down a soccer goal by laying it down with the center of the bag parallel and overlapping the horizontal ground bars.

35 Pound Sand Bag, 14" wide x 25" long plus 6" nylon web carrying strap. Two separate compartments provide interlocking capability when bags are stacked. Two inner plastic bags for securing on-site material within the bag before closure. Velcro closure at carrying strap end. The fabric material consists of a yellow vinyl laminate. When filled the sand bag is 22" long by 10" wide by 3.5" thick.

The 55 pound barrier sand bag was specifically designed for protecting a standard 35 inch wide doorway from encroaching water conditions. The additional weight allows for holding heavier objects in place.

55 Pound Sand Bag, 10" wide x 38" long plus 6" nylon web carrying strap. Inner plastic bag provided for securing on-site material within the bag before closure. Grommet and Velcro closure at carrying strap end. Fabric material is red aqua marine. When filled the sand bag is 36" long by 6.5" wide by 5.5" thick.

Labels: Product_Review

What is one of best turf shoes on the market? My vote is for the LawnGrips product line introduced over 2 years ago.

I was able to see the product for the first time at the annual 2006 STMA conference trade show. Representatives had several shoe models on hand for show visitors to try on. Although they didn't have the model on hand I was able to verify my shoe size at the show. I ordered a pair of 2001 Pros size 9 and have used them almost non-stop for two years.

This model appears to have been replaced by the ProLite 6" model.

In our business I have the opportunity to demonstrate our field marking equipment to prospective customers. The LawnGrips are part of my tool kit when out on the turf. They are used all day whether on the grass and skinned areas of ballfields or at our warehouse and office operations.

I really appreciate the higher ankle protection, both in the turf environment as well as in the warehouse operations. There has been very little noticeable wear on the sole. The padded soles are the most comfortable shoe that I've every worn, and I really like my Saucony Shadow 6000 that I've been buying for over 20 years. The LawnGrips kept my feet dry and allowed my feet to breath sufficiently to avoid wet socks. They have suffered several coats of paint over the course of a field striping season, yet were easy to clean up with soap and water (warm) and a strong bristle brush. They basically looked new again after the cleanup process.

Since I've overused/abused these LawnGrips, see Tru Mark photo album, they have shown some breakdowns, namely the uppers started separating from the soles and the internal padding especially around the heal starting breaking down. When the uppers separated I received my first cold bath since purchasing them when going through a shallow drainage ditch. The heal area although worn has not cause any blisters.

This is the best investment I've every made on a pair of shoes, even beating out my Lucchese Ropers hand made cowboy boots that I've owned for over 20 years.

Labels: Product_Review, Testimonials

Aer-flo continues to add new products to their sports turf cover offering. On the trade floor show of the annual 2008 Sports Turf Managers Association Conference in Phoenix, AZ, Jeff Mondor, Sales Director for the Sports Field Products introduced their latest product, Landing Zone Ballasted Pit Cover. This latest product is the integration of the wind weighted and turf protection technologies to help protect long and triple jump sand pits.

Also introduced this past year is the heat welded banners to the turf protection products to include the Bench Zone Sideline Turf Protectors.

Printing on products are now being offered by the company to help support sports programs through avenues such as advertising and team spirit.

Labels: Product_Review

The annual 2008 Sport Turf Managers Association conference in Phoenix, AZ continues to highlight companies introducing new products. Cambridge, Inc. introduced several different drag mats to the sport turf industry. Cambridge International, a manufacturer of industrial conveyor belts, has solved several typical problems with drag mats.

Mike Truitt, Director, Turf Mat Technology, explained how unique clinched edge design minimizes snagging and subsequent mat breakage. In addition the new one piece rivet free u-bar design is truly reversible. Also the Cambridge drag mats feature larger diameter rods which increase mat strength and resist distortion.

The drag mats can be custom built to customer requirements from the following specifications, mesh in a standard or heavy duty 1" x 1", strip size in 3/8" x .050 or 1/2" x .062, rod size 11 gauge or 6 gauge, and weight in 1.89 or 3.65 lbs/sq ft respectively. The custom mat options include standard or heavy duty, woven mesh, flexible or rigid, with or without bars, standard or heavy duty bars, 1" x 1" or 3" x 1" openings, chain or rope attachments, and widths from 6" to 200".

Refer to several of the different drag mat images from the conference trade show display.

Labels: Product_Review