Over time we get questions about what is the "best" field marker for our field marking operations. The following is a series of statements and questions revolving around four walk
behind field markers offered by Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker. One of the popular Tru Mark article is "
how to select a field marker" and the associated technologies available (PDF).
The walk-behind field markers (Tru Mark
EZ-70, Tru Mark
E-100,
Titan Speeflo Powrliner Series 850,
Graco FieldLazer S100)
we offer will work for the customer’s
natural turf field marking needs.
The EZ-70 and E-100 are battery powered while the other two are gas powered.
They all are fairly easy to clean.
You need to run water through the system until it comes out of the spray tips clear of paint.
They are all fairly easy to get parts for and to replace the parts.
It does help to be a little mechanically inclined, use of hand tools like a screw driver and adjustable wrench.
A customer needs to decide if he just wants to use the marker for field marking or if he wants to be able to occasionally stripe parking lots. If he has any interest in re-striping his parking lots, the Titan and Graco would give him that ability. The Titan is better for striping both turf and pavement as it has a adjustable pressure regulator to allow of application of undiluted paint which is the normal practice for pavement striping.
You can use diluted bulk latex paint in all four markers. You must dilute the paint for the EZ-70 and E-100. These makers use their own 5-gallon tank that you pour the diluted paint into. The Titan and Graco use a standard five gallon pail. The Titan can use undiluted paint.
Although the Graco can use undiluted paint we have found it is better to dilute it a little or use “Ready to Use” field marking paint. The amount of dilution depends on the type and quality of paint being used.
We have found that the lid Graco provides does not seal tightly so it is better to only have 3 – 4 gallons of paint in the bucket to prevent spillage if you are striping on uneven turf fields. The Titan does not provide a separate lid. You just cut a hole in a standard lid for the intake and return hose.
Warranty
GRACO - Graco will, for a period of twelve months from the date of sale, repair or replace any part of the quipment determined by Graco to be defective. This warranty applies only when the equipment is installed, operated and maintained in accordance with Graco’s written recommendations.
TITAN - Lifetime Motor Warranty
- 35-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
- Lifetime Drive Train Warranty
- Express Parts Program
- 4-Year Manufacturer's Defects
- 3-Year Gas Engine Warranty
Tru Mark EZ-70 and E-100 – for 2 years from date of shipment for any defects in material or workmanship. The Shurflo pumps only carry a 90 day warranty. The batteries will vary based on manufacturer's warranty. Normally you achieve 2-4 years of battery service.
Current pricing
- GRACO - $2399.00 (MSRP $2950.00)
- Titan - $1599.00
- EZ-70 - $969.00
- E-100 - $1665.00
Summary
EZ-70: will work for just one soccer field and one baseball field.
Least expensive. Battery powered, a sealed battery which is provide along with a charging unit. Battery provides up to 2 hours of operation before recharging. More than enough time for a soccer field and ball field. Better for environment. Small and easy to transport.
E-100: Battery powered, customer provided a deep cycle marine battery, at leat 625 cold cranking amps, approximately $85 through different outlets such as Walmart. Can be used for up to 8 hours on one charge so can do multiple fields at one time.
Titan: Gas powered. Can use undiluted paint. Can be used for parking lot striping. Does not come standard with spray shoes but Tru Mark does sell a paint shield accessory for $197.00 that features the Tru Mark Terrain Following Paint Shield technology.
Graco: Gas powered. Can use “Ready to Use” paint directly from bucket. If terrain is rough, probably should take 1 – 2 gallons out of bucket to prevent spillage. We have used the Titan and it is marketed for parking lot striping using pavement striping paint.
The
Tru Mark Athletic Field Marker website contains specific information about each of these markers.
http://www.trumarkathletics.com/products.aspx?itemid=2410&pagetitle=Field+Markers
One key for the field marking operator to understand is if they've used latex paint and expect to use the paint equipment again they must go through a cleaning process of rinsing the system with water so the equipment will perform during its next use.
Labels: Product_Review, Turf _Tips