You’ll find seven top pull behind aerator rentals that fit different lawns and tow vehicles, from a wide 48 inch plug aerator with 32 knives for deep 3 inch cores to compact 40 inch spike models that use rotating star tines for lighter compaction; options include pneumatic or flat free tires, 150 to 330 pound ballast trays, universal hitches, and easy pin connections.
Choose according to soil firmness, tine type, width, and ballast needs so your turf gets the right treatment and you’ll feel confident to continue learning more.
| Agri-Fab 48″ Tow-Behind Lawn Plug Aerator |
| Best for Deep Plugging | Working Width: 48″ | Tine Type: Plug (galvanized knives) | Penetration Depth: Up to 3″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Suchtale 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator |
| Best for Durability | Working Width: 40″ | Tine Type: Spike (star-shaped tine wheels) | Penetration Depth: Up to 2″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 48″ Tow-Behind Lawn Aerator with Pneumatic Tires |
| Best for Heavy Duty | Working Width: 48″ | Tine Type: Plug (heat-treated plug tines) | Penetration Depth: Up to 3″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 35-Inch 200 lb Tow-Behind Lawn Aerator |
| Best Compact Power | Working Width: 35″ | Tine Type: Spike (star-shaped steel tines) | Penetration Depth: (implied deep penetration; weight-assisted) — typical up to ~2–3″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Brinly 40″ Tow-Behind Plug Aerator (Matte Black) |
| Best Reliable Build | Working Width: 40″ | Tine Type: Plugging spoons (plugging spoons) | Penetration Depth: Up to 3″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| YITAMOTOR 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator |
| Best Value Performance | Working Width: 40″ | Tine Type: Spike (star-shaped plug core knives) | Penetration Depth: Up to 2″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Seeutek 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator |
| Best Weight Capacity | Working Width: 40″ | Tine Type: Spike (star-shaped steel tines) | Penetration Depth: Up to 2″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Agri-Fab 48″ Tow-Behind Lawn Plug Aerator
In case you care about getting a thick, healthy lawn without a lot of fuss, the Agri-Fab 48″ Tow-Behind Lawn Plug Aerator is a smart choice for homeowners who tow with a garden tractor. You’ll hook it easily to most tractors thanks to its universal hitch, then drive and let 32 galvanized knives do the work. They pull plugs up to 3 inches deep to relieve compaction and encourage roots to spread. It rides on flat-free tires and uses a cantilever handle so you raise and lower it without strain. Made in the USA, it comes with a 3 year limited warranty.
- Working Width:48″
- Tine Type:Plug (galvanized knives)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 3″
- Hitch Compatibility:Universal tow-behind hitch (lawn/garden tractors)
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Built-in (no specified add weight capacity) — supports deeper penetration with design
- Construction Material / Finish:Galvanized steel knives; made in USA with some imported materials
- Additional Feature:Flat-free transport tires
- Additional Feature:Cantilever transport handle
- Additional Feature:3-year limited warranty
Suchtale 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator
In case you want a no-fuss aerator that works well for medium to large yards and lets you tune penetration easily, the Suchtale 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator is a strong choice. You’ll appreciate ten star-shaped tine wheels that dig up to 2 inches, and each wheel’s uneven tips rotate independently so you don’t miss corners whenever you turn. The galvanized steel frame, thick 6 mm handle, and powder-coat finish mean this tool holds up in tough soil. You can add up to 110 pounds on the steel tray to push deeper. Assembly is straightforward with clear pictorial instructions and a quick pin-style hitch.
- Working Width:40″
- Tine Type:Spike (star-shaped tine wheels)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 2″
- Hitch Compatibility:Adjustable pin-style hitch (ATV/riding mowers)
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Weight tray supports up to 110 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:Galvanized steel with powder-coat finish
- Additional Feature:Pin-style quick hitch
- Additional Feature:110 lb weight tray
- Additional Feature:Nylon tine spacers
48″ Tow-Behind Lawn Aerator with Pneumatic Tires
Should you care about covering large lawns quickly and want a rental that handles rough ground without fuss, this 48 inch tow-behind aerator with pneumatic tires is a smart pick. You’ll like the wide 48 inch working width because it cuts your passes and saves time. The 32 heat-treated galvanized steel plug tines dig up to 3 inches to free compacted soil, so roots get more water and air. It holds 330 lbs in a heavy-duty tray for deeper penetration. The rust-resistant orange finish protects it, and the universal hitch and tool-free connection make towing simple and steady.
- Working Width:48″
- Tine Type:Plug (heat-treated plug tines)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 3″
- Hitch Compatibility:Universal hitch (tractors, ATVs, UTVs)
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Heavy-duty tray holds up to 330 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:Heat-treated galvanized steel tines; rust-resistant painted finish
- Additional Feature:330 lb weight capacity
- Additional Feature:Tool-free universal hitch
- Additional Feature:Pneumatic towing tires
35-Inch 200 lb Tow-Behind Lawn Aerator
In case you’re towing with a mid-size mower and want deep, reliable soil penetration, the 35-inch 200 lb tow-behind spike aerator is a smart choice for your rental needs. You’ll appreciate its all-steel frame and optional rust-resistant finish. It uses a dual traction bar with eight 9-inch star-shaped tines that pierce compacted ground and a tray for up to 200 pounds of added weight. That weight increases tine depth, letting oxygen and water reach roots more evenly. Assembly is simple with a plug-in hook, but wear gloves; the tines are very sharp and demand care.
- Working Width:35″
- Tine Type:Spike (star-shaped steel tines)
- Penetration Depth:(implied deep penetration; weight-assisted) — typical up to ~2–3″
- Hitch Compatibility:Plug-in hook compatible with lawn mowers
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Weight tray supports up to 200 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:All-steel with optional rust-resistant coating
- Additional Feature:Dual traction bar
- Additional Feature:200 lb weight tray
- Additional Feature:Plug-in hitch hook
Brinly 40″ Tow-Behind Plug Aerator (Matte Black)
Consider the Brinly 40″ Tow-Behind Plug Aerator as the go-to choice for homeowners who want pro-level results without hiring a groundskeeper. You’ll appreciate 24 heat-treated, 16-gauge steel spoons that pull 3-inch plugs, so water, seed, and fertilizer reach roots. The narrower, sharpened spoons cut easier and need less weight. Three rotating tine sections follow uneven ground and protect turf whenever you turn. It’s all-steel and accepts 150 lbs in the enclosed weight tray for deeper penetration. You’ll like semi-pneumatic tires, a single transport lever, universal hitch, simple assembly, and easy-to-replace spoons.
- Working Width:40″
- Tine Type:Plugging spoons (plugging spoons)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 3″
- Hitch Compatibility:Universal single-pin hitch (tractors, ZTRs, ATVs)
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Enclosed weight tray supports up to 150 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:Heat-treated steel tines; all-steel construction (matte black finish)
- Additional Feature:Serviceable individual spoons
- Additional Feature:Semi-pneumatic rubber tires
- Additional Feature:Single transport lever
YITAMOTOR 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator
Should you want deep, reliable aeration for medium to large yards, the YITAMOTOR 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator is a smart rental pick that feels built for serious homeowners and small landscaping pros who like hands-on care. You’ll appreciate 11 star-shaped galvanized plug core knives that reach two inches deep and enhance water, seed, and nutrient uptake. Built from Q235 alloy steel with reinforced plates and a 5/8-inch axle, it won’t bend or rust. The wide channel tow bar resists flexing while pneumatic tires and a side lever make transport simple. Add weight on the tray to increase penetration.
- Working Width:40″
- Tine Type:Spike (star-shaped plug core knives)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 2″
- Hitch Compatibility:Universal hitch tow bar (wide channel)
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Weight tray supports up to 150 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:Q235 alloy steel, galvanized
- Additional Feature:5/8″ solid axle
- Additional Feature:Wide channel tow bar
- Additional Feature:Side control transport handle
Seeutek 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator
In case you want a rental aerator that’s built for serious yards and dirt that’s seen better days, the Seeutek 40″ Tow-Behind Spike Lawn Aerator fits the bill. You’ll notice ten 8-inch star tines that dig two inches deep and rotate independently, so you won’t miss spots. The thickened galvanized steel tines and reinforced all-steel frame resist rust and bending, and the weight tray holds up to 330 lbs so you can add blocks for deeper penetration. The tow-behind hookup and four-wheel layout make maneuvering easy. Assembly is simple, hardware is included, and gloves come with it.
- Working Width:40″
- Tine Type:Spike (star-shaped steel tines)
- Penetration Depth:Up to 2″
- Hitch Compatibility:Tow-behind adaptable hook for various tractor heights
- Weight Tray / Addable Weight:Weight tray supports up to 330 lb
- Construction Material / Finish:Thickened galvanized steel with rust-resistant coating
- Additional Feature:Includes cement straps
- Additional Feature:Comes with assembly gloves
- Additional Feature:Oversized rubber wheels
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pull Behind Lawn Aerator Rentals
Once you rent a pull behind aerator, start checking that your tow vehicle can handle the hitch weight and tongue load so you won’t get stuck in the yard. Consider whether spike or plug tines are right for your soil, what tine size and depth you need, and whether the aerator’s weight and ballast capacity will give you consistent penetration. Also look at wheel type and total mobility because ease of maneuvering ties all these choices together and makes the job feel much easier.
Tow Vehicle Compatibility
Curious how to know whether a pull behind aerator will work with your mower or ATV? You’ll want a universal hitch or adjustable tow bar that fits lawn tractors, ATVs, or UTVs. Check that the hitch attaches and detaches easily, ideally with a single pin or quick-release so you won’t wrestle with tools. Match the height and width of the tow bar to your vehicle to avoid clearance problems and to keep safe turning angles. Also confirm the aerator’s weight and tow bar strength match your vehicle’s towing capacity so you don’t risk strain or damage. Finally, make sure tires and mobility features suit the terrain your vehicle handles best, which helps with smooth transport and more efficient aeration.
Aerator Type Selection
How do you pick the right pull behind aerator for your lawn so you get the best results without wasting time or money? Start off choosing spike or plug style based on soil compaction. Spike aerators puncture soil and work well for light compaction, while plug or core models pull out soil plugs and relieve heavy compaction more effectively. Consider tine pattern next, like rotating star-shaped tines that aerate continuously during turns so you avoid missed spots. Check unit width and tine count to cover more ground whenever you rent, and consider weight capacity since heavier machines or adding weight gives deeper penetration. Combine these factors so your rental matches soil condition, lawn size, and the time you have available.
Tine Size And Depth
Picking the right tine size and depth matters more than you could envision, because those choices decide how much air, water, and nutrients actually reach your grass roots. You want larger tines whenever soil is heavy or compacted because they make bigger holes and let more life into the root zone. At the same time, depth matters; reaching up to 3 inches reduces compaction and helps roots grow stronger. Spike tines work well for moderate compaction and usually reach about 2 inches. Plug or core tines go deeper, often to 3 inches, for tougher soils. Pay attention to tine shape and sharpness so they penetrate without fighting the machine. Also look for tines that rotate or move independently to keep depth steady and avoid missed strips.
Weight And Ballast Capacity
Because soil firmness changes from yard to yard, you’ll want an aerator that lets you add and adjust weight so the tines actually reach the root zone. You’ll feel better understanding ballast capacity helps you match the machine to your soil. Heavier ballast lets you drop concrete or use steel weight trays, pushing tines deeper into compacted ground. Look for trays rated from about 150 to over 300 pounds so you can tune pressure. Proper distribution matters too. Place weight evenly so tines bite uniformly and you don’t scalp or skid. Adjustable capacity gives you flexibility for sandy patches and hard clay alike. At the time you rent, ask about tray type, max pounds, and simple ways to add or move weight.
Wheel Type And Mobility
You’ve already considered weight and ballast so tines can reach the root zone, and now you’ll want to match that weight choice to how the aerator moves across your yard. Wheels matter. Pneumatic tires smooth towing over bumps and uneven ground, so you’ll feel less jolt and work less. Should you worry about flats, pick flat-free or semi-pneumatic tires. They cut maintenance and still give good traction. Reflect on wheel count and size. More and larger wheels balance the machine and make turning easier, especially on slopes or wet spots. Bearings in the wheels help whenever you carry heavier ballast or cross rough terrain. Look for transport handles or levers that raise wheels for driveways so you can move the aerator without strain.
Construction And Durability
Upon renting a pull behind aerator, the way it’s built matters as much as the tines and weight it carries. You’ll want a frame made from galvanized or alloy steel so rust and bending don’t become your problem. Reinforced side plates and a solid steel axle give the unit backbone, and nylon spacers between tines reduce wear as you work. Look for heavy duty steel weight trays in case you plan to add ballast for deeper penetration. A powder coat or other rust resistant finish keeps the metal looking and performing well after many uses. Pay attention to the tow bar too since thick channel shaped steel prevents flexing on turns. These features together mean you get reliable performance and less hassle.
Ease Of Assembly
At the moment you’re renting a pull behind aerator, easy assembly saves you time and stress, so look for units that come mostly put together and include clear visual instructions and a parts breakdown. You’ll feel better whenever instructions show each step with images and label every bolt and tine. Pick models with major components already assembled so you only attach handles, wheels, and the hitch. Check that all hardware and any needed tools are included so you don’t stop mid-task. Safety guidance should be obvious, especially for sharp tines and heavy parts, and that protects you and helpers. Finally, choose a universal hitch and simple pin connections so you can attach the aerator to many tow vehicles with little skill.
Rental Duration Costs
Once you plan how long to rent a pull behind aerator, consider the size of your lawn and the pace you’ll work at so you don’t pay for time you don’t need. Rental duration costs rise the longer you keep the machine, so check daily, weekly, and monthly rates up front. Many shops cut the price for longer bookings, and that can save you money should you need extra days. Learn the minimum rental period, often a day or a weekend, because that sets your baseline cost. Ask about late fees so you won’t get surprise charges in case you run over. Match your estimated work time to the best rate, factor in breaks and weather delays, and choose the period that balances cost with peace of mind.