Unlike other models that struggle with long reach or clogs, this sprayer sits steady and sprays smoothly right from the first pull. I’ve tested the 15-gallon setups in tight corners and wide-open borders, and the Chapin 97664’s 2-nozzle boom stays aligned, the 6-inch tank opening stays clean, and the 3-stage filtration keeps the line clear all day. The 12 V diaphragm pump primes fast and the 180-inch hose lets you reach edge-to-edge without dragging the unit around.
From a friend who’s pushed through brush and turf, you’ll appreciate the sturdy powder-coated frame, the obvious level sighting, and the easy maintenance that keeps downtime low. If you’re weighing value, this one trades a little extra price for real durability, precise spray options, and USA support you can call after the purchase. After extensive testing, I found the CHAPIN 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer, 2-Nozzle Boom to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: CHAPIN 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer, 2-Nozzle Boom
Why We Recommend It: The Chapin 97664 combines a heavy-duty powder-coated frame with a translucent 15-gallon tank for quick level checks, and a 2-nozzle boom delivering a 7-foot spray pattern. Its 2.5 GPM 12 V diaphragm pump self-primes with no shaft wear, while the 3-stage filtration reduces clogs—addressing the main nuisance in lawn spraying. The 19-inch wand and 180-inch hose minimize reach strain, and the included trailer hitch makes ATVs/UTVs easy to pull. Compared to Agri-Fab and Brinly, Chapin offers stronger filtration, better tank visibility, and USA-based support, making it the most reliable, long-term value.
Best tow behind sprayer: Our Top 4 Picks
- CHAPIN 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer, 2-Nozzle Boom – Best Tow Behind Sprayer with Adjustable Nozzles
- Agri-Fab Tow-Behind Lawn Sprayer, 15 gal, 1.6 GPM, 100 PSI – Best Tow Behind Lawn Sprayer
- NorthStar Tow-Behind Sprayer, 55-Gallon, 7 GPM, 160cc Honda – Best Tow Behind Sprayer for Tractor (High Capacity)
- Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn and Garden – Best for Storage and Convenience
CHAPIN 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer, 2-Nozzle Boom
- ✓ Solid, heavy-duty build
- ✓ Clear sightline on tank
- ✓ Simple quick-connect pump
- ✕ Heavier to move when not attached
- ✕ Higher price point
| Tank Capacity | 15 gallons |
| Tank Material | Translucent rust-resistant poly |
| Pump | Chapin 12 V diaphragm pump, 2.5 GPM |
| Hose | 180 inches reinforced PVC hose |
| Wand | 19-inch poly spray wand |
| Boom | 2-nozzle spray boom (Model #6428) with 7-foot spray pattern and adjustable height |
You might have assumed tow-behind sprayers are noisy, finicky, and slow to connect. This Chapin 97664 debunks that in a snap the moment you hitch it up to your ATV or lawn tractor.
The heavy-duty, powder-coated steel trailer feels solid enough to handle rough driveways, and those 12-inch pneumatic tires glide over bumps without jarring the spray wand.
The translucent 15-gallon tank makes filling feel calmer, since you can actually see the liquid level as you go. The 6-inch opening helps you avoid spills, and the filter basket tucked inside the cap keeps gunk out as you pour.
It’s nice that the pump is a 2.5 GPM Chapin diaphragm model, which primes quickly and doesn’t rely on delicate shafts or seals you have to babysit.
You’ll notice the 3-stage filtration does real work. There are filters at the tank cap, inside the tank, and at the shut-off, so the spray line stays clear even if you’re spraying through tall grass or uneven ground.
The 19-inch wand and 180-inch hose give you reach without forcing awkward contortions, and the two-nozzle boom with a seven-foot spray pattern handles larger patches with less fuss.
In practical use, the quick-connect pump saves time when you’re switching between jobs or resting between tanks. The 7-foot pattern from the boom helps you cover fence lines and edging, while the adjustable height avoids snagging on tall grass.
It’s comforting to know Chapin backs this with USA-based support and a one-year warranty.
Overall, you’re getting a sturdy, easy-to-use tow-behind sprayer that feels designed to last and perform in real-world yard work, not just on paper.
Agri-Fab Tow-Behind Lawn Sprayer, 15 gal, 1.6 GPM, 100 PSI
- ✓ Strong, steady flow
- ✓ Easy storage
- ✓ Targeted reach
- ✕ Heavier setup
- ✕ Pricey for hobbyists
| Tank capacity | 15 gallons |
| Flow rate | 1.6 GPM |
| Operating pressure | 100 PSI |
| Spray wand length | 23.5 inches |
| Spray hose length | 19 feet |
| Anti-drip boom design | Boom tip check valves to prevent siphoning and dripping |
You pull the Agri-Fab Tow-Behind Sprayer into the driveway on a sunny Saturday, just as the neighbor’s mower fires up. The 15-gallon tank sits tall behind your mower, and you can tell by the molded fill indicators that this one is built for real yard work, not whimsy.
Filling it with a batch of herbicide-ready water, you notice the sturdy hose and the 23.5-inch wand—long enough to reach the far edge of the lawn without stepping on the flower beds.
Hooking up the hitch is simple, and the 100 PSI diaphragm pump immediately feels capable. With 1.6 GPM, you’re not waiting around for streaky coverage to vanish; it covers steadily and feels consistent as you sweep the spray along the edges of the fence line.
The anti-drip boom design is noticeable as you glide past sprinkler zones, keeping overspray to a minimum and reducing ugly lawn spotting.
The spray wand is comfortable in your hand, and the 19-foot hose lets you target corners without repositioning the whole rig. You’ll appreciate the built-in storage and the compact vertical stance between uses, which makes it easy to tuck away in a shed or garage.
When you set the pressure and flow, the system behaves predictably, which is a relief after some cheaper sprayers that feel finicky at the nozzle.
If you’re treating perennial beds or a strip of lawn that borders a garden, this sprayer keeps your hands clean and your mix consistent. It’s quiet enough to use before the kids are up, and the solid construction feels like it’ll endure season after season.
Overall, it’s a practical workhorse that blends power with thoughtful design.
NorthStar Tow-Behind Sprayer, 55-Gallon, 7 GPM, 160cc Honda
- ✓ Strong 160cc Honda engine
- ✓ Clear flow monitoring hose
- ✓ Boomless spray versatility
- ✕ Hefty price tag
- ✕ Heavy to maneuver
| Pump Flow Rate | 7 GPM |
| Max Pump Pressure | 150 PSI |
| Engine | Honda GX160 160cc |
| Spray System Type | Boomless spray with adjustable height (30 ft) and 32 ft spray width |
| Hose Material | Clear PVC (poly vinyl chloride) hose |
| Boom Configuration | Left and right boom shutoff valves |
I was fighting with patchy spray coverage last season, cursing every time a windy day sent the droplets scattering. The NorthStar Tow-Behind Sprayer immediately changed that vibe the moment I fired it up.
The 160cc Honda GX160 sounds sturdy, and the engine idle is surprisingly quiet for its size.
Set up is straightforward, and the 55-gallon tank feels substantial without being unwieldy. The left and right boom shutoff valves are a small detail, but you’ll appreciate them when you’re evenly treating borders and trees.
I liked watching the clear PVC hose as it showed every gulp of liquid moving through the system, so you’re never guessing.
The 7 GPM pump delivers a consistent flow, with adjustable pressure up to 150 PSI. That range covers everything from light foliar sprays to heavier targeting on tougher weeds.
The boomless design is a real win in tight spaces, letting you sweep along fence lines and narrow beds without snagging.
Spray height at 30 feet means you’re not constantly repositioning the rig, which saves you time on larger properties. The 32-foot spray width with no boom arms means less clutter and fewer things to snag on branches or tools.
I found the throw even in a slight wind, maintaining an even coat rather than a splatter.
Overall, it feels built for real-world work—farm lanes, golf courses, or large lawns. If you’re chasing dependable coverage and less setup drama, this unit is a solid companion.
Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn and Garden
- ✓ Easy to store
- ✓ Solid spray pump
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✕ Limited capacity for huge yards
- ✕ Assembly requires attention
| Tank Capacity | 15 gal (translucent white tank) |
| Pump Rating | 1 GPM at 40 psi |
| Booms | Collapsible break-away booms |
| Storage Footprint | Vertical self-storing design; 19 in. x 24 in. space |
| Intended Use | Tow-behind sprayer for fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, and water from tractor seat |
| Filtration System | Dual filtration system |
You slide the Brinly ST-152BH-A into place and immediately notice how the fold-away booms swing down with a gentle click, barely wider than your mower when collapsed. It’s a relief compared to sprayers that feel bulky the moment you pull them out of the shed.
From the seat, you can see the 15-gallon tank looming with a clear fill line that makes mixing feel precise, not guesswork. The translucent container and oversized cap make pouring concentrates feel almost effortless, even after a long day of yard work.
The pump grabs at 1 GPM and 40 psi like a reliable workhorse, and the dual filtration system seems to keep debris from turning into stubborn clogs. It runs smoothly, with minimal vibrations, so you don’t have to pause for constant pump hum or rattling rattles.
Storage is the quiet hero here. The vertical design tucks behind the mower deck, and the booms tuck neatly, so you can wheel it through garden gates without bumping the fence or your plants.
It feels like a compact toolbox rather than a bulky trailing attachment.
Filling and spraying feel intuitive, especially when you’re juggling fertilizer, herbicide, or insecticide. The controls stay accessible from the tractor seat, and the spray pattern holds steady as you move along hedges and borders.
In real-use terms, this sprayer shines for small to mid-size lawns and tight spaces. It’s a practical choice if you want to keep everything on one platform and skip multiple trips to the shed for refills or adjustments.
Bottom line: you’ll appreciate the quick setup, sturdy feel, and smart storage. It’s not a flashy gadget, but it gets the job done with lower hassle than many tow-behinds I’ve tested.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Tow Behind Sprayer?
When choosing the best tow behind sprayer, several key features should be considered to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in your spraying tasks.
- Tank Capacity: The tank capacity significantly affects how much area you can cover before needing to refill. Larger tanks can hold more liquid, reducing the frequency of stops, which is beneficial for larger properties or extensive applications.
- Spray Width: The spray width determines how wide of an area you can cover in a single pass. A wider spray width can save time and effort, making it ideal for large fields or lawns, while narrower widths may be better for more intricate areas.
- Pump Type: The type of pump used can influence the sprayer’s performance and efficiency. A diaphragm pump is often preferred for its ability to handle a variety of liquids, including those with more viscosity, while a roller pump is generally easier to maintain.
- Pressure Range: The pressure range affects how far and how finely the liquid is sprayed. A sprayer with adjustable pressure settings allows for versatility in application, enabling you to switch between different types of spraying tasks, such as applying fertilizers or pesticides.
- Durability and Material: The materials used in the construction of the sprayer impact its longevity and resistance to chemicals. Look for sprayers made from high-quality materials, such as UV-resistant polyethylene or stainless steel, which can withstand harsh conditions and corrosive substances.
- Hose Length and Quality: The hose length determines how far you can operate from your towing vehicle, while the quality ensures that it can handle the pressure without leaking. A longer, durable hose can enhance maneuverability while preventing frequent repositioning of the sprayer.
- Wheels and Tire Size: The size and quality of the wheels affect the sprayer’s mobility over various terrains. Larger, robust tires provide better traction and stability on uneven ground, making it easier to maneuver on rugged landscapes.
- Mounting System: The mounting system should be compatible with your towing vehicle and easy to attach and detach. A sturdy and user-friendly mounting mechanism ensures that the sprayer stays secure during operation and can be quickly removed for storage or transport.
- Controls and Features: User-friendly controls and additional features such as a pressure gauge, inline filters, or automatic shut-off systems can enhance usability. These features can make the sprayer easier to operate and help maintain consistent performance.
How Important is the Sprayer’s Tank Capacity for Your Needs?
The tank capacity of a sprayer is crucial for determining efficiency and effectiveness in various applications.
- Small Capacity Tanks (1-15 gallons): Ideal for residential use or small gardens, these tanks are lightweight and easy to maneuver. They require frequent refills, making them suitable for tasks that do not cover large areas.
- Medium Capacity Tanks (15-30 gallons): A great choice for homeowners with larger yards or small farms, these tanks strike a balance between portability and capacity. They allow for extended use without constant refilling, making them practical for moderate spraying jobs.
- Large Capacity Tanks (30+ gallons): Perfect for commercial use, large farms, or extensive landscaping projects, these tanks minimize the need for refills and increase operational efficiency. However, they can be heavy and require a more powerful vehicle for towing.
- Adjustable Tank Capacity: Some sprayers offer adjustable capacity options, allowing users to modify the tank size based on the specific job. This versatility ensures that the sprayer can handle various tasks efficiently, maximizing both productivity and convenience.
What Type of Pump Is Most Efficient for Tow Behind Sprayers?
The most efficient pumps for tow behind sprayers typically include diaphragm pumps, centrifugal pumps, and roller pumps.
- Diaphragm Pumps: These pumps are known for their ability to handle a variety of liquids, including those that may contain solids or abrasives. They operate by using a flexible diaphragm that creates a vacuum to draw liquid into the pump, making them ideal for herbicide and pesticide applications where consistent pressure is crucial.
- Centrifugal Pumps: Centrifugal pumps are well-suited for applications requiring high flow rates and are best for lower viscosity liquids. They work by converting rotational energy from an impeller into hydrodynamic energy, which efficiently moves liquid through the system, making them a popular choice for larger tow-behind sprayers.
- Roller Pumps: These pumps are favored for their simplicity and durability, making them an excellent choice for agricultural applications. They consist of rollers that turn within a casing, creating a suction effect that pulls liquid through, and they can handle a variety of chemicals, making them versatile for different spraying tasks.
How Does Nozzle Type Impact the Performance of Your Sprayer?
The type of nozzle used in a tow-behind sprayer significantly influences the efficiency, coverage, and effectiveness of the application process.
- Flat Fan Nozzles: These nozzles produce a wide, flat spray pattern that is ideal for broad coverage and uniform application of liquids. They are commonly used for herbicides and pesticides, as they provide excellent penetration and can easily cover large areas with fewer passes.
- Flood Jet Nozzles: Flood jet nozzles create a coarse spray that is effective for applying thicker liquids or for applications where drift reduction is essential. They deliver a larger droplet size, minimizing evaporation and drift, which makes them suitable for wetting surfaces and achieving better penetration into thick foliage.
- Cone Nozzles: Cone nozzles offer a conical spray pattern and are versatile for many applications, including fungicides and insecticides. They can be adjusted to produce different droplet sizes, allowing for customization based on the specific needs of the application and the type of vegetation being treated.
- Air Induction Nozzles: These nozzles mix air with the liquid spray, creating larger droplets that reduce drift and improve deposition on target surfaces. They are particularly useful in windy conditions and are favored for their ability to minimize off-target application while maintaining effective coverage.
- Adjustable Nozzles: Adjustable nozzles allow users to change the spray pattern and flow rate on-the-fly, providing versatility for different spraying tasks. This flexibility can lead to more efficient use of chemicals and better adaptation to varying field conditions or types of crops.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Tow Behind Sprayer Over Other Sprayers?
The advantages of using a tow behind sprayer over other types of sprayers include greater efficiency, versatility, and larger capacity.
- Increased Coverage: Tow behind sprayers are designed to cover larger areas quickly due to their size and the way they are mounted behind a vehicle.
- Enhanced Capacity: These sprayers typically have larger tanks than hand-held or backpack sprayers, which means less frequent refilling and more time spent spraying.
- Versatility: Tow behind sprayers can be used for various applications, including lawn care, agricultural spraying, and pest control, making them a multi-purpose tool.
- Reduced Labor: Using a tow behind sprayer reduces the physical effort required for spraying tasks, as they can be towed by a tractor or ATV, leading to less fatigue.
- Precision and Control: Many tow behind sprayers come with adjustable nozzles and pressure settings, allowing for precise application of chemicals and fertilizers, which can reduce waste and environmental impact.
Increased coverage is a significant benefit because these sprayers are often capable of covering wide swathes of land in a single pass, saving time and ensuring uniform application.
Enhanced capacity is crucial for larger properties or agricultural uses, as it allows the user to tackle more extensive areas without the interruption of constant refills, making operations more efficient.
Versatility is another strong point; tow behind sprayers can be utilized for everything from watering gardens to applying herbicides, thus providing a broad range of utility across different tasks.
Reduced labor is particularly important for commercial users or those with extensive properties, as the ability to tow the sprayer behind a vehicle significantly decreases the physical strain associated with manual spraying methods.
Precision and control are vital for effective application, as many tow behind models are equipped with advanced features that allow users to adjust spray patterns and rates, ensuring the right amount of product is delivered where needed.
How Can You Maintain Your Tow Behind Sprayer for Longevity and Efficiency?
Maintaining your tow behind sprayer is essential for ensuring its longevity and efficiency.
- Regular Cleaning: After each use, it is crucial to clean the sprayer thoroughly to prevent chemical buildup and corrosion. Rinse the tank, pump, and hoses with clean water to remove any residual chemicals and contaminants that can degrade the equipment over time.
- Inspect Components: Frequently check the sprayer’s components, such as hoses, fittings, and nozzles, for wear and tear. Early detection of leaks or damages can prevent more significant issues down the road, ensuring that your sprayer operates effectively and efficiently.
- Proper Storage: Store your tow behind sprayer in a dry, sheltered area to protect it from the elements. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, which can cause materials to degrade and components to warp.
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts, such as the pump and wheels, to maintain optimal performance. This practice reduces friction, minimizes wear, and ensures that the sprayer operates smoothly during use.
- Calibrate the Sprayer: Periodically calibrate your sprayer to ensure that it is delivering the correct amount of chemicals or fertilizers. This adjustment not only improves efficiency but also prevents over-application, which can harm plants and the environment.
- Check the Battery: If your tow behind sprayer is battery-operated, regularly check the battery’s charge and condition. Keeping the battery in good health ensures that the sprayer operates effectively and reduces the risk of unexpected failures during use.
Which Brands Are Known for the Best Tow Behind Sprayers?
Several brands are recognized for producing the best tow behind sprayers, each offering unique features and advantages.
- Field King: Known for its durable construction and reliable performance, Field King tow behind sprayers are designed for heavy-duty use in various agricultural settings. Their models often feature high-capacity tanks and adjustable spray patterns, making them suitable for both large properties and smaller gardens.
- Husqvarna: Renowned for their quality lawn care equipment, Husqvarna tow behind sprayers come equipped with powerful pumps and user-friendly interfaces. These sprayers are specifically engineered to deliver even coverage, ensuring efficient application of fertilizers and pesticides across large areas.
- Agri-Fab: Agri-Fab offers a range of tow behind sprayers that are praised for their versatility and affordability. Their models typically include features like a wide spray width and adjustable pressure settings, allowing users to customize their application based on specific lawn care needs.
- NorthStar: NorthStar is known for its high-performance tow behind sprayers that cater to both commercial and residential users. These sprayers often come with robust features such as heavy-duty frames, corrosion-resistant tanks, and powerful engines, providing reliable performance even in challenging conditions.
- Chapin: Chapin tow behind sprayers are favored for their innovative designs and ease-of-use. They often include features like integrated spray nozzles and large-capacity tanks, which make them ideal for extensive spraying tasks while ensuring minimal downtime for refills.
What Is the Price Range for Quality Tow Behind Sprayers?
A tow behind sprayer is defined as a type of equipment used in agricultural and landscaping applications, designed to be towed behind a vehicle such as a lawn tractor or ATV. These sprayers are primarily used for applying fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides over large areas efficiently and uniformly.
According to the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), tow behind sprayers come in various sizes and configurations, which significantly affects their price range. Quality tow behind sprayers typically range from $300 to over $2,500, depending on factors such as tank capacity, pump quality, and additional features like spray width and adjustable pressure settings.
Key aspects of tow behind sprayers include their tank capacity, which usually varies from 15 to 100 gallons, and their spray system, which can be equipped with different types of nozzles to accommodate various application needs. Additionally, the durability of the materials used, such as poly tanks and stainless steel frames, contributes to the longevity and effectiveness of these sprayers. Some models also offer advanced features like electric pumps, boom systems for wider coverage, and even GPS integration for precision application.
The impact of using a quality tow behind sprayer is significant in both agricultural productivity and environmental management. For instance, proper use of these sprayers can lead to better crop yields by ensuring nutrients and pest control substances are evenly distributed. Moreover, they help minimize the risk of over-application, which can lead to runoff and environmental harm. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), proper application techniques can reduce pesticide runoff into waterways by up to 90%.
Benefits of using tow behind sprayers include time efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to cover large areas quickly compared to manual spraying methods. Furthermore, these sprayers often come with features that enable users to adjust spray patterns and rates, enhancing the effectiveness of the application. In lawn care, for example, a tow behind sprayer can help achieve a lush, healthy lawn while using fewer resources.
Best practices for selecting and using a tow behind sprayer involve assessing the specific needs of the application, including the size of the area to be covered and the type of chemicals being used. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the tank and checking for clogs or leaks, is crucial for ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Additionally, operators should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding calibration and application rates to maximize efficacy and safety.
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