The Cartridge System
One machine, year-round lawn care. Switch between mowing, scarifying, aerating, and more in seconds.
Transform Your Mower Into a Complete Lawn Care System
Allett's Quick-Change (QC) and Ultra-Change (UC) cartridges turn a single machine into your year-round turf partner.
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Traditional lawn care requires multiple specialized machines: a mower, scarifier, aerator, dethatcher. Allett's cartridge system eliminates that.
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One precision machine accepts interchangeable cartridges that swap in 15 seconds without tools.
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You invest once in a quality platform, then expand capability as needed.
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It's versatile, space-efficient, and cost-effective compared to buying separate machines for each task.
15-Second Swaps (No Tools)
Cartridges lock into place with simple pins or levers.
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Change tasks mid-session without returning to the workshop.
Year-Round Lawn Health
Spring scarifying, summer mowing, fall aerating, winter brushing (where applicable).
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Maintain turf health through every season.
Space & Cost Efficiency
Store one machine + cartridges instead of multiple full machines.
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Lower investment than buying separate equipment for each task.
Professional Results
Cartridges use the same quality construction as cutting cylinders.
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Professional-grade cultivation, not hobbyist attachments.
Complete Cartridge Range
From cutting to cultivation, each cartridge is purpose-built for specific lawn care tasks.
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Cartridge System Overview
Allett offers three interchangeable cartridge systems, each designed for specific model ranges and optimized for different change speeds and user preferences:
Ultra Change (UC)
Stirling range - Tool-free, under 15 seconds
Fastest change system
Rapid Change (RC)
Cambridge range - 5mm Allen key, under 1 minute
Balances speed and security
Quick Change (QC)
Kensington & older models - Basic tools, approximately 5 minutes
Proven, reliable system
ULTRA-CHANGE (UC) CARTRIDGES
Compatible with: Stirling 43, Stirling 51, Stirling 51 Sport | Change Time: Under 15 seconds (tool-free)
6-Blade Cutting Cylinder (UC)
What it does: Standard precision mowing for Stirling platform
When to use: Regular weekly mowing
Result: Excellent cut quality optimized for Stirling's dual-motor system
Compatible widths: 17" (Stirling 43), 20" (Stirling 51/51 Sport)
10-Blade Cutting Cylinder (UC)
What it does: Ultra-fine cutting for Stirling platform
When to use: Premium finish requirements, show lawns
Result: Finest cut available on Lawn & Garden platform
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
Scarifier Cartridge (UC)
What it does: Deep scarifying powered by Stirling's dedicated cartridge motor
When to use: Spring/fall renovation, heavy thatch removal
Result: Deeper penetration than QC/RC versions (up to -14mm), more aggressive dethatching
Depth: 0-14mm below surface
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
Aerator Cartridge (UC)
What it does: Powered aeration with precision depth control
When to use: Compaction relief, improved drainage
Result: Deeper penetration and better soil disruption than QC/RC versions
Depth: Adjustable, typically 15-30mm
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
Dethatcher Cartridge (UC)
What it does: Powered dethatching for Stirling system
When to use: Heavy thatch removal, pre-overseeding preparation
Result: More aggressive debris removal than QC/RC versions
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
Verticut Cartridge (UC)
What it does: Powered vertical cutting for aggressive renovation
When to use: Grain removal, Poa annua control, aggressive turf renovation
Result: Deeper cuts, more effective grain control than QC/RC versions
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
Lawn Brush (UC)
What it does: Powered brushing for Stirling
When to use: Pre-mowing grooming, worm cast dispersal, surface debris removal
Result: More effective than QC/RC brush due to powered action
Compatible widths: 17", 20"
RAPID CHANGE (RC) CARTRIDGES
Compatible with: Cambridge 35, Cambridge 43 | Change Time: Under 1 minute (5mm Allen key required)
6-Blade Cutting Cylinder
What it does: Standard precision mowing with 6-blade cylinder
When to use: Regular weekly mowing, general lawn maintenance
Result: Clean scissor cut, professional stripes, healthy grass
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm - Cambridge 35), 17" (43cm - Cambridge 43)
10-Blade Cutting Cylinder (RC)
What it does: Ultra-fine cutting with 10-blade cylinder for premium finish
When to use: Fine lawns requiring the closest cut, show properties
Result: Finer cut than 6-blade, denser appearance, more frequent mowing needed
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
Scarifier Cartridge (RC)
What it does: Removes thatch, moss, and dead material from lawn surface
When to use: Spring renovation, fall cleanup, whenever thatch layer exceeds 12mm
Result: Opens turf canopy, improves air/water/nutrient penetration, promotes new growth
Depth: Adjustable, typically 0-10mm below surface
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
Aerator Cartridge (RC) - Slitter Style
What it does: Cuts vertical slits in soil to relieve compaction and improve drainage
When to use: Compacted soil, heavy clay, poor drainage areas, spring/fall
Result: Improved root growth, better water infiltration, reduced puddling
Depth: Adjustable, typically 15-25mm
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
Cartridge Title
What it does: Pulls out dead grass, thatch, and organic debris without disrupting soil
When to use: Heavy thatch buildup, post-winter cleanup, before overseeding
Result: Cleaner turf surface, improved seed-to-soil contact, reduced disease pressure
Depth: Adjustable surface penetration
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
Verticut Cartridge (RC)
What it does: Vertical cutting to control lateral grass growth and remove grain
When to use: Control of Poa annua, removal of grain on sports turf, aggressive renovation
Result: Upright grass growth, reduced grain, improved ball roll
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
Lawn Brush Cartridge (RC)
What it does: Brushes lawn surface to stand grass upright and disperse dew/frost
When to use: Before mowing (improves cut), dispersing worm casts, light grooming
Result: Upright grass for cleaner cut, dispersed debris, groomed appearance
Pressure: Adjustable
Compatible widths: 14" (35cm), 17" (43cm)
QUICK-CHANGE (QC) CARTRIDGES
Compatible with: Kensington range, Sport Turf models (C24, C27, C34) | Change Time: Approximately 5 minutes (basic tools required)
6-Blade Cutting Cylinder (QC)
What it does: Standard precision mowing with 6-blade cylinder
When to use: Regular weekly mowing, general lawn maintenance
Result: Clean scissor cut, professional stripes, healthy grass
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20" (Kensington), 24", 27", 34" (Sport Turf)
10-Blade Cutting Cylinder (QC)
What it does: Ultra-fine cutting with 10-blade cylinder for premium finish
When to use: Fine lawns requiring the closest cut, show properties, putting green-style finish
Result: Finer cut than 6-blade, denser appearance, more frequent mowing needed
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20", 24", 27"
Scarifier Cartridge (QC)
What it does: Removes thatch, moss, and dead material from lawn surface
When to use: Spring renovation, fall cleanup, whenever thatch layer exceeds 12mm
Result: Opens turf canopy, improves air/water/nutrient penetration, promotes new growth
Depth: Adjustable, typically 0-10mm below surface
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20", 24", 27"
Aerator Cartridge (QC) - Slitter Style
What it does: Cuts vertical slits in soil to relieve compaction and improve drainage
When to use: Compacted soil, heavy clay, poor drainage areas, spring/fall
Result: Improved root growth, better water infiltration, reduced puddling
Depth: Adjustable, typically 15-25mm
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20", 24", 27"
Dethatcher Cartridge (QC)
What it does: Pulls out dead grass, thatch, and organic debris without disrupting soil
When to use: Heavy thatch buildup, post-winter cleanup, before overseeding
Result: Cleaner turf surface, improved seed-to-soil contact, reduced disease pressure
Depth: Adjustable surface penetration
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20"
Verticut Cartridge (QC)
What it does: Vertical cutting to control lateral grass growth and remove grain
When to use: Control of Poa annua, removal of grain on sports turf, aggressive renovation
Result: Upright grass growth, reduced grain, improved ball roll (sports turf)
Depth: Adjustable, aggressive cultivation
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20", 24", 27"
Lawn Brush Cartridge (QC)
What it does: Brushes lawn surface to stand grass upright and disperse dew/frost
When to use: Before mowing (improves cut), dispersing worm casts, light grooming
Result: Upright grass for cleaner cut, dispersed debris, groomed appearance
Pressure: Adjustable
Compatible widths: 14", 17", 20", 24", 27"
Compatibility Matrix
Which cartridges fit which models?
| Model | System | 6-Blade Cylinder | 10-Blade Cylinder | Scarifier | Aerator | Dethatcher | Verticut | Brush |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic 14E | None | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Classic 17E | None | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Liberty 35 | QC | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Liberty 43 | QC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cambridge 35 | RC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cambridge 43 | RC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Kensington 14B | QC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Kensington 17B | QC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Kensington 20B / 20H | QC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stirling 43 | UC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stirling 51 / 51 Sport | UC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
System Legend
UC = Ultra Change (tool-free, <15 seconds)
RC = Rapid Change (5mm Allen key, <1 minute)
QC = Quick Change (basic tools, ~5 minutes)
Important Compatibility Notes
Width-Specific: Cartridges are width-specific within each system.
A 17" UC cartridge (Stirling 43) will NOT fit a 20" UC mower (Stirling 51).
A 17" RC cartridge (Cambridge 43) will NOT fit a 17" QC mower (Kensington 17B).
Always verify BOTH width AND system compatibility before purchasing.
Cross-System Compatibility: UC, RC, and QC cartridges are NOT interchangeable between systems, even if the width matches.
Each system uses different mounting mechanisms:
- UC: Tool-free lift-tab system
- RC: Two-screw retention system
- QC: Side-cover and belt-driven system
Example Compatibility
- ✓ Stirling 43 (17" UC) → Any 17" UC cartridge
- ✓ Cambridge 43 (17" RC) → Any 17" RC cartridge
- ✓ Kensington 17B (17" QC) → Any 17" QC cartridge
- ✗ Stirling 43 (17" UC) → Cannot use 17" RC or QC cartridges
- ✗ Cambridge 43 (17" RC) → Cannot use 17" UC or QC cartridges
Match your lawn care tasks to the seasons for optimal results.
When to Use Which Cartridge
Renovation, thatch removal, wake-up
Spring (April-May)
Recommended Cartridges:
- Scarifier: Remove winter thatch, moss, dead material (early spring)
- Dethatcher: Clean up debris before active growth
- Brush: Disperse worm casts, stand grass upright
- 6-Blade Cylinder: First cuts of season (raise HOC initially)
Regular maintenance, growth management
Early Summer (June-July)
Recommended Cartridges:
- 6-Blade or 10-Blade Cylinder: Weekly mowing (peak growing season)
- Brush: Pre-mowing grooming for cleaner cut
- Verticut: Control lateral growth if needed
Stress management, preparation for fall renovation
Late Summer (August)
Recommended Cartridges:
- 6-Blade Cylinder: Regular mowing (may slow in heat/drought)
- Aerator: Relieve compaction before fall (if needed)
- Brush: Light surface work
Renovation, overseeding prep, winterization
Fall (September-October)
Recommended Cartridges:
- Scarifier: Fall renovation, prepare for overseeding
- Aerator: Relieve summer compaction, improve drainage before winter
- Dethatcher: Clean surface for seed-to-soil contact
- 6-Blade Cylinder: Final cuts of season
Off-season maintenance
Winter (November - March)
Recommended Action:
- Send cartridges and cylinders for sharpening/service
- Off-season is ideal time for reel grinding to be ready for spring
- Tool and Accessory Maintenance
How to Install and Use Cartridges
Simple steps for swapping, adjusting, and getting the best results from all three systems.
Stirling Range - Tool-Free, Under 15 Seconds
ULTRA CHANGE (UC) SYSTEM INSTALLATION
Installation Steps:
- Turn off mower and remove battery for safety
- Locate quick-release tabs on both sides of cutting unit
- Lift both tabs simultaneously and disengage the drive
- Slide cartridge forward and lift out
- Align new cartridge with mounting brackets
- Slide cartridge into position until fully seated
- Lower both tabs to lock - you'll hear/feel them engage
- Verify cartridge is secure (attempt to lift—should not move)
- Reinstall battery
- Adjust height/depth as needed for cartridge type
- Test operation before full use
Time: ~10-15 seconds with practice
Why UC is Fastest: The Ultra Change system requires no tools whatsoever. Two simple tabs, lift and lower—that's it. This speed makes mid-session cartridge changes practical (e.g., mow then immediately scarify without breaking workflow).
Cambridge Range - Under 1 Minute
RAPID CHANGE (RC) SYSTEM INSTALLATION
Installation Steps:
- Stop mower, engage parking brake, ensure engine off
- Remove grass box (if attached)
- Locate the two retention screws (one on each side of cutting unit)
- Use 5mm Allen key to loosen both screws (2-3 turns - don't remove completely)
- Undo one screw on either side to release cartridge
- Slide cartridge forward off mounting pins
- Align new cartridge with mounting pins
- Slide cartridge into position until fully seated against frame
- Tighten retention screws on both sides securely
- Verify cartridge is locked (attempt to pull forward—should not move)
- Adjust height/depth as needed
- Test operation before full use
Time: ~45-60 seconds with practice
Why RC Balances Speed and Security: Rapid Change offers faster swaps than QC while maintaining robust cartridge retention. The two-screw system is simple but secure—ideal for frequent cartridge users who want speed without sacrificing peace of mind.
Required Tool: 5mm Allen key (supplied with Cambridge mowers)
Kensington Range & Sport Turf Models - 5 Minutes
QUICK CHANGE (QC) SYSTEM INSTALLATION
Installation Steps:
- Stop mower, engage parking brake (if applicable), ensure engine off
- Remove grass box (if attached)
- Remove side cover (typically 2-4 screws depending on model)
- Disengage drive belt from cartridge pulley
- Locate locking pins on both sides of cutting unit
- Pull pins outward and remove four fixings (two per side)
- Slide existing cartridge forward and lift out
- Align new cartridge with mounting brackets
- Slide cartridge into position until fully seated
- Replace four fixings and insert locking pins
- Re-engage drive belt on cartridge pulley
- Replace side cover and secure
- Verify cartridge is locked (attempt to pull forward—should not move)
- Adjust height/depth as needed for cartridge type
- Test operation before full use
Time: ~5 minutes with practice, faster as you gain experience
Why QC Still Has Value: While slower than UC/RC, Quick Change is proven, reliable, and compatible with Allett's extensive model history. The belt-driven system provides positive engagement and has been refined over decades.
Required Tools: Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, possibly wrench depending on model)
System Comparison - Change Times
| System | Models | Change Time | Tools Required | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UC | Stirling | 10-15 seconds | None | Easiest |
| RC | Cambridge | 45-60 seconds | 5mm Allen key | Easy |
| QC | Kensington, C-Series | 4-6 minutes | Basic tools | Moderate |
Universal Best Practices (All Systems)
Clean Before Swapping
Remove grass buildup from cartridge mounting area before installation. Debris can prevent proper seating and affect performance.
Adjust Before First Pass
Set correct height/depth for cartridge type before mowing. Cutting cylinders: set HOC. Cultivation cartridges: start conservative on depth.
Multiple Passes
Scarifying/dethatching often requires 2-3 passes in different directions for best results. First pass loosens material, subsequent passes remove it.
Check Alignment
Cartridge should sit flush with no gaps. If misaligned, remove and reinstall—forcing it can damage mounting points.
Start Conservatively
First use of cultivation cartridges (scarifier, aerator, dethatcher): start shallow and increase depth as needed. Easier to make additional passes than repair over-cultivation damage.
Storage
After use, clean cartridges thoroughly before storage. Store in dry location away from weather. UC/RC cartridges are lighter and easier to store than QC cartridges.
Cartridge System FAQ
Common questions about cartridges, compatibility, and use.
What's the difference between UC (Ultra Change), RC (Rapid Change), and QC (Quick Change) cartridges?
Allett offers three cartridge mounting systems designed for different model ranges:
UC (Ultra Change): Used on Stirling range (43 & 51cm). Tool-free system with lift tabs—cartridges swap in under 15 seconds. Cartridges are independently powered by Stirling's dual-motor system, allowing deeper cultivations and more aggressive work.
RC (Rapid Change): Used on Cambridge range (35 & 43cm). Two-screw retention system requiring a 5mm Allen key—cartridges swap in under 1 minute. Balances speed with secure retention, offering significantly faster changes than QC while maintaining robust mounting.
QC (Quick Change): Used on Kensington and Sport Turf models. Traditional belt-driven system with side cover and locking pins—cartridges swap in approximately 5 minutes with basic tools. Proven, reliable system refined over decades.
All three systems are incompatible with each other, even if widths match. Each requires its specific cartridge type.
Can I use an RC cartridge on a Kensington mower (QC system)?
No. Even if the width matches (e.g., 17" RC cartridge and Kensington 17B), the mounting systems are completely different:
- RC uses a two-screw retention system with direct drive
- QC uses side-cover access with belt-driven engagement
Attempting to force-fit incompatible cartridges can damage your mower. Always match: (1) System type (UC/RC/QC), AND (2) Width (14"/17"/20"/24"/27"/34").
Can I use a 17" cartridge on a 20" mower (same system)?
Cartridges are width-specific within each system.
A 17" UC cartridge (for Stirling 43) will not fit a 20" UC mower (Stirling 51), and vice versa.
Width compatibility must match exactly, regardless of system.
Which system is best?
Each system is optimized for its model range:
- UC offers the fastest, most convenient swaps (tool-free, <15 sec) and powered cartridge operation for deepest cultivation
- RC balances speed and security (5mm Allen key, <1 min) with simpler mechanism than QC
- QC is proven, reliable, and compatible with Allett's extensive model history
You can't choose—your mower determines which system you'll use. Choose your mower based on features and specifications, not cartridge system preference.
How often should I sharpen/replace cartridge blades?
Frequency depends on use:
- Cutting cylinders: Annual sharpening typical for residential use, 2-4x/season for professional use
- Scarifier/verticut blades: Replace when tips become rounded (typically 50-100 hours of use)
- Aerator slitter blades: Infrequent replacement unless damaged
- Brush bristles: Last several seasons unless damaged
We offer sharpening services through our Reel Exchange program. Worn cartridge blades can be ordered as replacement parts.
Do I need all the cartridges?
No. Most owners start with the cutting cylinder (included with cartridge-compatible mowers) and add cartridges as needs arise. Common progression:
- Start: Cutting cylinder only (mowing)
- Add: Scarifier (most versatile renovation tool)
- Add: Aerator (if compaction issues)
- Add: Dethatcher or Brush (as needed)
Buy what you'll use. Some owners never need more than mowing and scarifying capability.
Can cartridges damage my lawn?
Used correctly, cartridges improve lawn health. However:
- Too aggressive settings (too deep) can damage turf
- Wrong season (e.g., scarifying in summer heat stress) can harm lawn
- Incorrect technique (too many passes) can over-cultivate
Follow depth guidelines, scarify/aerate in spring or fall, and start conservatively.
When in doubt, go shallower and add passes rather than going deep immediately.
How do I adjust cutting/cultivation depth?
Depth adjustment methods vary by system and cartridge:
- Cutting height: Use mower's Height of Cut (HOC) adjustment (micro-set dial or lever)
- UC cartridges: Most have dedicated depth adjusters on the cartridge itself
- RC/QC cartridges: Adjust via HOC setting and/or cartridge-specific depth controls (varies by cartridge)
- Front roller height: On some models, affects cartridge working depth relative to ground
Consult your manual for specific adjustment instructions per cartridge. Most cartridges include depth setting guides.
Can I leave a cartridge installed when not in use?
Yes, but:
- Cutting cylinders: Fine to leave installed year-round
- Cultivation cartridges (scarifier, aerator, etc.): Can be left installed, but storing separately prevents accidental damage to tines/blades and makes maintenance easier
If storing mower long-term (winter), remove all cartridges, clean thoroughly, and store separately in dry location.
Are cartridges covered under warranty?
Cartridges are considered accessories and have separate warranty:
- Manufacturing defects: Covered (typically 6-12 months)
- Normal wear (blade dulling, bristle wear): Not covered
- Damage from misuse or improper adjustment: Not covered
Warranty specifics provided with cartridge purchase.
Can I buy cartridges separately from a mower?
Yes, if you have a cartridge-compatible model (Cambridge, Kensington, Stirling, or Sport Turf).
However, buying a cartridge doesn't make a non-compatible model compatible, you must own the correct mower.
Check system (UC/RC/QC) and width compatibility before purchasing.
What maintenance do cartridges require?
Regular maintenance:
- Clean after every use (remove grass buildup)
- Check for worn or damaged blades/tines
- Lubricate moving parts per manual
- Store clean and dry
- Annual inspection before season start
- Sharpen cutting cylinders annually (or more often for heavy use)
Where can I get cartridges serviced or sharpened?
Cartridge servicing options:
- Send to Allett Canada: We offer cartridge sharpening, blade replacement, and refurbishment
- Reel Exchange Program: Convenient swap service for cutting cylinders (you receive a sharp one while we sharpen yours)
- DIY: Some maintenance (cleaning, simple blade replacement) can be done at home with proper tools
Contact us for service options and turnaround times.
Do UC cartridges work better than QC cartridges?
UC and QC cartridges perform different functions optimally:
- UC cartridges are independently powered by Stirling's dual-motor system, enabling deeper cultivations (up to -14mm vs -10mm for QC scarifiers) and more aggressive work
- QC cartridges are gravity/contact-driven and work excellently for their design parameters
UC isn't inherently "better"—it's designed for the Stirling platform's capabilities. QC cartridges deliver professional results on Kensington and Sport Turf models.
Choose your mower based on overall features, not just cartridge system.
Can I upgrade my QC mower to UC or RC cartridges?
No. The mounting systems are fundamentally different and integrated into the mower's design.
You cannot retrofit a Kensington (QC) to accept UC or RC cartridges, or vice versa.
If you want a different cartridge system, you need a different mower from that range.