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When turf professionals search for a “Verti-Drain machine”, they’re usually looking for equipment that can relieve soil compaction, aerate, and improve drainage on golf courses and sports fields. The Verti-Drain® 7316 is a well-known option, but it isn’t the only solution available.
In this article we explain what a Verti-Drain machine does and compare it with the Wiedenmann Terra Spike® GXi-8 — a deep aeration attachment that delivers faster, cleaner results with minimal disruption.
What a Verti-Drain Machine Does
A Verti-Drain machine is a tractor-mounted deep-tine aerator. It uses long solid or hollow tines to punch into the soil, lift and fracture compacted layers, and create channels for air, water and nutrients. This helps maintain healthy turf on golf greens, sports fields, parks and municipal areas.
Key specs of the Verti-Drain® 7316 (as featured in our comparison video):
- Working width: 1.6 m
- Maximum working depth: 300 mm
- Weight: 670 kg
- Minimum tractor power required: 35 HP
- Maximum capacity: 1,360 m²/h with 65 mm spacing
- Three-speed gearbox for adjustable working speed
- Compatible with multiple tine options, windrow kit and wheel kit
Wiedenmann Terra Spike® GXi-8 – Deep Aeration for Professional Turf
The Wiedenmann Terra Spike® GXi-8 is Wiedenmann’s specialist deep-tine aerator for golf greens, tees, sandy sports fields and fine turf. It’s engineered to combine high work quality with minimal surface disruption, allowing play to resume quickly.
Key specs of the Terra Spike® GXi-8 (as featured in our comparison video):
- Working width: 1.8 m
- Max. working depth: 250 mm with solid tines / 200 mm with coring tines
- Weight: 890 kg (standard)
- Minimum tractor power required: 35 HP
- Minimum tractor lifting capacity: 1,050 kg
- Crankshaft speed: 385 / 485 rpm
- Maximum working speed: 3.2 km/h
- Max. area efficiency: up to 5,600 m²/h with 110 mm hole spacing
Side-by-Side Comparison: Terra Spike® GXi-8 vs Verti-Drain® 7316
| Feature | Verti-Drain® 7316 | Wiedenmann Terra Spike® GXi-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Working width | 1.6 m | 1.8 m |
| Max. working depth | 300 mm | 250 mm (solid) / 200 mm (coring) |
| Weight | 670 kg | 890 kg |
| Min. tractor HP | 35 HP | 35 HP |
| Max. area efficiency | 1,360 m²/h (65 mm spacing) | 5,600 m²/h (110 mm spacing) |
| Speed options | 3-speed gearbox | Two crankshaft speeds (385 / 485 rpm) |
Why many grounds teams choose Terra Spike® GXi-8:
- Greater working width means fewer passes over large areas.
- Higher area efficiency for faster coverage and less downtime.
- Gentle working action that doesn’t interrupt play.
- Easy depth and angle adjustments via scales and cranks.
Choosing the Right Turf Aerator Attachment
If you’re looking for a Verti-Drain machine or alternative, consider the Wiedenmann Terra Spike® GXi-8. It offers comparable or better performance in many key areas, especially on golf greens, sports fields and other fine turf.
Fieldquip stocks a selected range of Wiedenmann turf attachments, including the Terra Spike® GXi-8. To discuss the right deep-tine aerator or other turf renovation equipment for your course or facility, contact our sales team or speak to your local Fieldquip dealer.
