I have the leveling rake from R&R - it works well for smoothing sand, but I don't know how well it would work on dirt. A drag broom or drag mat would be another good option. I would probably lean toward the drag mat for smoothing bare dirt.
Regarding adding sand after the lawn is established, I wouldn't be so quick to discount that idea. It all depends on your expectations of course, but lawns typically don't just stay level/smooth - you really have to work at. I agree that you should do everything you can to smooth the ground before the sod is put down, but don't be disappointed when you finish the season and it's not quite as smooth as it was when you started. It's also not uncommon to see at least some variation in the thickness of the sod pieces that are laid. I guess what I'm saying is you can (and should) do everything you can on the front end, but that's not always enough. :thumbup:
Regarding adding sand after the lawn is established, I wouldn't be so quick to discount that idea. It all depends on your expectations of course, but lawns typically don't just stay level/smooth - you really have to work at. I agree that you should do everything you can to smooth the ground before the sod is put down, but don't be disappointed when you finish the season and it's not quite as smooth as it was when you started. It's also not uncommon to see at least some variation in the thickness of the sod pieces that are laid. I guess what I'm saying is you can (and should) do everything you can on the front end, but that's not always enough. :thumbup:
