Gilmour 196SPB Pattern Master Sprinkler

Gilmour 196SPB – Pattern Master Circular Sprinkler Specifications

What makes the Pattern Master different from a standard impact sprinkler?
A standard impact sprinkler delivers water at a consistent distance throughout its rotation. The Pattern Master goes further by adding a flexible 12-point programming disc (the red ring around the sprinkler base) that lets you vary the spray distance at each of the 12 points in a single rotation. This means you can water close-in on one side (say, near a fence or path) and far out on the other side, all in one rotation cycle — without moving the sprinkler. It's ideal for irregularly shaped lawns where a uniform circle would waste water on sidewalks, driveways, or hardscape areas.

How do I adjust the spray distance?
The flexible red programming ring around the base of the sprinkler has 12 individual sections. To reduce the spray distance at any point, push that section of the ring up from underneath — this raises that segment, which activates the sprinkler's deflector as the control arm passes over it, shortening the water stream. To maximize the spray distance, push the ring segment back down so it lies flat. You can mix and match raised and lowered sections around the full circle to create virtually any coverage shape.

How do I set a partial-circle pattern vs. full 360° coverage?
For partial-circle coverage, keep the trip lever in the down position and use the adjustable collars on the sprinkler head to set the left and right stops for the rotation. This limits the head to water only the arc you define. For full 360° coverage, flip the trip lever to the up position — the head will then rotate continuously in a complete circle. Full-circle mode is best for large, open lawn areas without obstacles.

What hose size does this connect to?
The Pattern Master connects to any standard 3/4" garden hose — the most common hose size used in residential yards in the U.S. No adapters are needed for a standard garden hose connection.

Can I connect multiple Pattern Master sprinklers together?
Yes. The sprinkler includes a second hose connector, allowing you to daisy-chain two or more units in series from a single hose line. This is useful for covering long, narrow lawn areas or multiple zones. Keep in mind that each additional sprinkler in the chain will reduce available water pressure slightly, so test your setup to confirm all heads are rotating fully.

What water pressure does this sprinkler need?
Like most impact-type sprinklers, the Pattern Master performs best at standard residential water pressure (typically 40–60 PSI from a hose bib). At very low pressure, rotation may slow or stop. If you need to reduce pressure for drip components elsewhere in your system, DripWorks carries a full range of pressure regulators.

Is this sprinkler suitable for use with a hose timer?
Yes. Because the Pattern Master connects directly to a standard garden hose, it works seamlessly with any hose-end battery timer or mechanical wind-up timer. DripWorks carries a variety of hose-end and inline timers that can automate your watering schedule without a permanent irrigation system.

What is the Gilmour lifetime warranty?
Gilmour backs the Pattern Master with a lifetime replacement warranty — one of the strongest warranties in the garden sprinkler category. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product. Contact Gilmour directly for warranty service.

Is this the right sprinkler for a large lawn?
The Pattern Master covers up to 5,800 sq. ft. at maximum range — enough for many residential backyard lawns. For very large properties requiring in-ground systems, consider a rotor-based system. DripWorks carries professional-grade rotors such as the Hunter PGP Ultra Rotor for large turf areas.