Adjusting the left stop on a Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head is a relatively simple process that can help optimize your irrigation system. The left stop controls how far the sprinkler head will rotate to the left, which determines the watering arc and coverage area. Properly adjusting the left stop is important to prevent overspray onto sidewalks, driveways, and other areas that don’t need water. It can also help ensure even coverage and prevent dry spots in the landscape. With a few simple tools and steps, you can easily modify the left stop to customize the watering arc for your landscape needs.
What You’ll Need
- Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head
- Flat head screwdriver
- Left stop adjustment tool (may come with sprinkler head)
Before starting, make sure the irrigation system is turned off and water pressure is relieved. Attempting to adjust the left stop with water pressure on can damage the sprinkler head.
Locate the Left Stop
The left stop on a Rainbird 5000 is located underneath the nozzle turret. To access it, gently pry up and remove the nozzle turret with a flat head screwdriver. This will expose the left stop mechanism below it.
The left stop will look like a flat plastic tab sticking up with an adjustment screw in the middle. The number of degrees marked on the left stop indicates how far it is currently set to rotate to the left.
Use the Adjustment Tool
Insert the end of the left stop adjustment tool into the screw in the middle of the left stop tab. Turn it clockwise to reduce the left arc of rotation or counterclockwise to increase it. Adjusting by a few degrees at a time allows you to fine tune the left rotation.
Test and Adjust as Needed
Once adjusted, turn the water back on and activate the zone with the sprinkler head to test the new left arc setting. Observe the rotation and coverage to ensure it is watering the desired area without any overspray.
Further small adjustments can be made with the adjustment tool to fine tune the left stop as needed. Just be sure to turn off the water again before adjusting.
Reset the Nozzle Turret
When satisfied with the newly adjusted left stop setting, turn off the water again and reset the nozzle turret. Press down firmly until it clicks back into place secured over the left stop mechanism.
The sprinkler head is now ready for regular operation with the modified left rotation limit. Periodically check and adjust the left stop as needed to maintain optimal coverage. Proper adjustment helps prevent overspray and inefficient watering.
Tips for Adjusting a Rainbird 5000 Left Stop
Here are some additional tips to get the most out of adjusting a Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head left stop:
- Adjust in small increments for precise control.
- Use overlapping spray to help ensure complete coverage.
- Leave 1-2 feet buffer between watering area and stationary objects.
- Consider terrain and slope so water doesn’t run off.
- Adjust right side stop too if necessary.
- Consult markings on adjustment tool for degree settings.
- Always turn water off before adjusting left stop tab.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble properly adjusting the left stop on your Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head, here are some things to check:
- Make sure the adjustment tool is properly fitted into the screw of the left stop tab before turning.
- Confirm the water is completely shut off before making adjustments.
- Check for stripped gears or broken parts prohibiting rotation.
- Ensure nozzle turret is aligned correctly when resetting.
- Examine for debris obstructing the left stop mechanism.
- Consider replacing worn or defective parts.
Proper troubleshooting can help resolve any issues altering the left arc rotation limit on a Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head.
When to Call a Professional
In most cases with a properly functioning sprinkler head, adjusting the left stop can be done fairly easily DIY. However, you may want to call in a professional sprinkler specialist if:
- You can’t determine the cause of a malfunction.
- Significant repairs or replacements are needed.
- The system requires major realignment or renovations.
- There are complex hydraulic issues involved.
- Problems persist after troubleshooting.
For major sprinkler system work, the expertise of an irrigation professional is advised. They have the knowledge and skills to fully diagnose and fix any left stop adjustment issues.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular sprinkler maintenance can help avoid issues and keep your Rainbird 5000 performing optimally for years. Recommended preventative maintenance includes:
- Inspecting and cleaning nozzles.
- Checking for damaged or clogged sprinkler heads.
- Monitoring for leaks.
- Re-adjusting arc rotations periodically.
- Testing pressure and coverage.
- Pre-winterizing in cold climates.
Proper preventative maintenance makes left stop adjustments quicker and easier when needed. It can also prolong the lifespan of your Rainbird 5000 sprinkler heads.
Recap
Adjusting the left stop on a Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head involves just a few simple steps:
- Turn off water and relieve pressure.
- Remove nozzle turret with screwdriver.
- Insert adjustment tool into left stop screw.
- Rotate adjustment tool to modify left arc.
- Reset nozzle turret when finished.
- Turn water on to test adjustments.
- Make minor tweaks until coverage is optimal.
Taking the time to properly adjust the left stop can optimize spray coverage and prevent wasteful overspray. Combined with regular maintenance, properly adjusting rotation arcs can keep your Rainbird 5000 working excellently for years to come.
Conclusion
Adjusting the left stop on a Rainbird 5000 sprinkler head is a relatively easy process that can help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your irrigation system. Following the steps outlined, using the proper adjustment tool, and testing during adjustments can enable precise tuning of the left arc rotation to provide optimal coverage for your landscape. Preventative maintenance and periodic adjustments as needed will keep your Rainbird 5000 operating smoothly for maximum watering performance. With a few simple tools and adjustments, you can customize the spray arc to reduce overspray and keep your lawn and garden sufficiently watered.
