Craftsman 917291480 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

IC""FTSMeN'I

FRONT TINE TILLER

5.0 HP

24 Inch Tine Width

Model No.

917.291480

This product has a low emission engine which operates

[_ differently from previously built engines. Before start the

engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

you

Warranty ................................................ 2

Safety Rules .......................................... 2

Product Specifications ........................... 4

Assembly ............................................... 5

Operation ........................................... 3&7

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 11

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TILLER

For one (1) year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Tiller is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as tines, spark plugs,

air cleaners and belts.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank-

shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con- tained in the owner's manual.

• If this Craftsman Tiller is used for commercial or rental purposes, this Warranty ap-

plies for only thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.

Warranty service is available by returning the craftsman power mower to the nearest sears service center/department in the united states. This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the united states.

Manintenance ...................................... 11

Service and Adjustments ..................... 13

Storage ............................................ 3&16

Troubleshooting ................................... 17

Illustrated Parts List ............................. 36

Sears Service ........................ Back Cover

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 U.S.A.

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

TRAINING

• Read the Owner's Manual carefully. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know

how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.

• Never allow children to operate the

equipment. Never allow adults to op- erate the equipment without proper

instruction.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all

persons, particularly small children, and pets.

PREPARATION

• Thoroughly inspect the area where the

equipment is to be used and remove all

foreign objects.

• Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before starting the engine (mo-

tor).

• Do not operate the equipment without

wearing adequate outer garments. Wear footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flam- mable.

• Use an approved fuel container.

• Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.

• Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.

• Replace gasoline cap securely and

clean up spilled fuel before restarting.

• Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by the manufacturer for all

units with electric drive motors or elec- tric starting motors.

• Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine (motor) is running (ex- cept where specifically recommended

by manufacturer).

OPERATION

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.

• Exercise extreme caution when operat- ing on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (motor), remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating

the tiller.

• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or fall- ing.

• If the unit should start to vibrate ab- normally, stop the engine (motor) and

check immediately for the cause. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble.

• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating position.

• Take all possible precautions when leav- ing the machine unattended. Disengage

the tines, shift into neutral, and stop the engine.

• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, shut off the engine and make certain all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting. Disconnect the cord on electric

motors.

• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are dangerous.

• Never operate the tiller without proper guards, plates, or other safety protective devices in place.

• Keep children and pets away.

• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting to till too deep at too fast

a rate.

• Never operate the machine at high

speeds on slippery surfaces. Look be-

hind and use care when backing.

• Never allow bystanders near the unit.

• Use only attachments and accessories

approved by the manufacturer of the tiller.

• Never operate the tiller without good vis- ibility or light.

• Be careful when tilling in hard ground.

The tines may catch in the ground and

propel the tiller forward. If this occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not

restrain the machine.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

• Keep machine, attachments, and ac-

cessories in safe working condition.

• Check shear pins, engine mounting bolts, and other bolts at frequent inter-

vals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

• Never store the machine with fuel in the

fuel tank inside a building where ignition sources are present, such as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, and

the like. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

• Always refer to the operator's guide instructions for important details if the

tiller is to be stored for an extended

period.

Ai_Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent acci- dental starting when setting up, transport- ing, adjusting or making repairs.

_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle compo- nents contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity:

OiI(API-SF-SJ): (Capacity: 20 oz.)

Spark Plug : (Gap: .030")

3 Qts

Unleaded Regular

SAE 30

(Above 32°F)

SAE 5w-30

(Below 32°F)

Champion

RC 12YC

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Tiller. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and per-

formance.

Should you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please contact a

Sears or other qualified Service Center. We have competent, well-trained techni- cians and the proper tools to service or

repair this unit.

Please read and retain this manual. The

instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tiller properly. Always

observe the "SAFETY RULES". Your new tiller has been assembled at the

factory with exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller all parts and hardware you assemble

must be tightened securely. Use the cor-

rect tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES = Read and observe the safety rules.

= Follow a regular schedule in main-

taining, caring for and using your tiller.

• Follow the instructions under the "Main- tenance" and "Storage" sections of this

Owner's Manual.

A(_WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should

not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester

meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal

laws apply on federal lands. A spark ar-

rester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service center (See

REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

These accessories were available when the tiller was purchased. They are also avail- able at most Sears Retail outlets and Service Centers. Most Sears Stores can order

repair parts for you when you provide the model number of your tiller.

ENGINE

AIR FILTERSPARK PLUG MUFFLER GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER

TILLER MAINTENANCE

BELT

TINES HAIRPIN CLIP

SHEAR PIN

Your new tiller has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) Utility knife

(2) 1/2 Wrench OPERATOR'S POSITION When right or left hand is mentioned in

this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (standing behind tiller

handles).

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Front

Left i_ Right

Operator's Position

(1) Manual

(1) Bottle Engine Oil

(2) Carriage Bolts 5/16-18 UNC x 2-1/2

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(2) Lock

Washer

5/16

(2) Flange

Locknuts

5/16-18 UNC

(2) Hex Nut 5/16-18

UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL

HANDLE

A(_CAUTION: Be careful of exposed sta- ples when handling or disposing of carton-

ing material.

IMPORTANT: When unpacking and as- sembling tiller, be careful not to stretch or

kink cable(s).

1. Cut cable ties securing handle column.

2. Route cable(s) as shown and slide

handle column onto handle mount.

3. Remove all packing from carton.

4. Secure handle column using two (2)

carriage bolts and two (2) flange lock-

nuts. Tighten securely.

5. Cut away carton.

6. Route tine control cable(s) through

plastic cable clip on handle mount.

NOTE: Cables must not touch the muffler.

7. Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid.

Remove tiller from skid by pulling back-

wards.

8. Remove screws securing depth stake

to skid and discard the screws.

INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY

1. Loosen nut "A".

2. Insert stake support between engine bracket halves with stake spring down.

3. Bolt stake support to engine brackets with bolts, lock washers and nuts.

Tighten securely. Tighten nut "A".

4. Depth stake must move freely. If it does not, loosen support bolt.

. . _ // :ngine Bracket Halves

Nut'A'

"_. \'%4_ / uepth

Stake

"_ 1//"7 _ Depth

\ I _ / Stake .4%.

j_/' Support /'_.d2

X','SSupport

o,t

Handle Tine Mount Control

Cable

-Handle

Column

Carriage I

-Flange Locknut

Hex Bolts, Lock Washers, and hex Nuts

HANDLE HEIGHT

Handle height may be adjusted to better

suit operator. (See "HANDLE HEIGHT'

in the Service and Adjustments section

of this manual).

TILLING WIDTH

• Tilling width may be adjusted to better handle your tilling conditions (See "TINE

ARRANGEMENT' in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

TINE OPERATION

• Check tine operation before first use. (See "TINE OPERATION CHECK" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

KNOW YOUR TILLER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR

TILLER Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the locations of var-

ious controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

ORWARNING ON OFF

Forward Tine

Control

Tine Shield

Depth Stake

Recoil Starter Handle

Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

FORWARDTINE CONTROL - Engages

tines in forward direction.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting

a cold engine.

DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed

and the depth at which tiller will dig.

RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to

start the engine.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your tiller and while tilling. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOWTO USE YOUR TILLER

Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel and oil or attempting to start engine.

STOPPING

TINES

• Release tine control to stop movement.

ENGINE

• Move throttle control to "STOP" position. NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.

Tine Control "Off" (UP) Position

-Throttle Control

Choke Control

TINE OPERATION

• Squeeze tine control to handle.

TILLING

The speed and depth of tilling is regulated

by the position of the depth stake and

wheel height. The depth stake should always be below

the wheels for digging. It serves as a

brake to slow the tiller's forward motion to

enable the tines to penetrate the ground. Also, the more the depth stake is lowered

into the ground the deeper the tines will

dig.

DEPTH STAKE

Adjust depth stake by removing the hairpin clip and clevis pin. Change depth stake to desired position. Replace the clevis pin and hairpin clip.

• For normal tilling, set depth stake at the second or third hole from the top.

WHEELS

Adjust wheels by removing the hairpin clip and clevis pin. Change wheel position. Replace the hairpin clip and clevis pin.

• For normal tilling, set wheels at the second or third hole from the top.

Hairpin Clip and Clevis Pin

Depth Stake

Spring

TO TRANSPORT

_CAUTION: Before lifting or transporting,

allow tiller engine and muffler to cool. Dis- connect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline

from fuel tank. AROUND THE YARD

1. Tip depth stake forward until it is held

by the stake spring.

2. Push tiller handles down, raising tines

off the ground.

3. Push or pull tiller to desired location.

AROUND TOWN

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.

2. Drain fuel tank.

3. Transport in upright position to prevent

oil leakage.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE IMPORTANT: Be very careful not to allow

dirt to enter the engine when checking or adding oil or fuel. Use clean oil and fuel

and store in approved, clean, covered containers, use clean fill funnels.

FILL ENGINE WITH OIL

Remove hangtag from engine.

With engine level, remove engine oil filler plug.

Fill engine with oil to point of over- flowing. For approximate capacity see

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 4 of this manual. All oil must meet

A.P.I. Service Classification SF-SJ.

4. Tilt tiller back on its wheels and then re-level.

5. With engine level, refill to point of over-

flowing if necessary. Replace oil filler

plug.

• For cold weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting (See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

Oil Filler

Oil Plug

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will

increase carbon and lead oxide depos- its and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil

with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan- tities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

_I=CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top

of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow for fuel expansion. If gasoline is acci- dentally spilled, move machine away from area of spill. Avoid creating any source of ignition until gasoline vapors have disap- peared. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open

flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in temper-

atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting. CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separa- tion and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days

or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

_I_CAUTION: Keep tine control in "OFF"

position when starting engine. When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra pulls of the recoil starter to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. Make sure spark plug wire is properly connected.

2. Place throttle control in "FAST" posi- tion.

3. Move choke control to full "CHOKE" position. Grasp recoil starter handle

with one hand and grasp tiller handle with other hand. Pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compres- sion cycle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point).

4. Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not let starter handle snap back

against starter. Repeat if necessary.

NOTE: If engine fires but does not start, move choke control to half choke posi-

tion. Pull recoil starter handle until engine starts.

5. When engine starts, slowly move choke control to "RUN" position as engine warms up.

NOTE: A warm engine requires less choking to start.

6. Move throttle control to desired running position.

7. Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before engaging tines.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32°F), the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance.

See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual. NOTE: If engine does not start, see trou-

bleshooting points.

Spa= : Plug

)ttle

Control

Recoil Starte=

BREAKING IN YOUR TILLER

Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine con-

trol before you actually begin tilling.

• Start engine, tip tines off ground by pressing handles down and engage tine

control to start tine rotation. Allow tines

to rotate for five minutes.

• Check tine operation and adjust if necessary. See "TINE OPERATION CHECK" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

TILLING HINTS _CAUTION: Until you are accustomed to

handling your tiller, start actual field use with throttle in slow position. To help tiller move forward, lift up the

handles slightly (thus lifting depth stake out of ground). To slow down the tiller,

press down on handles.

If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the wheels and depth stake are not set

properly in the soil being tilled. The proper setting of the wheels and depth stake is through trial and error and depends upon the soil condition. (The harder or wetter the ground, the slower the engine and tine speed needed. Under these poor condi- tions, at fast speed the tiller will run and jump over the ground).

A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little

effort from the operator.

• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and

breaking up packed soil before planting. Loose, unpacked soil helps root growth.

Best tilling depth is 4"-6". A tiller will also clear the soil of unwanted vegeta-

tion. The decomposition of this vegeta-

ble matter enriches the soil. Depending on the climate (rainfall and wind), it may

be advisable to till the soil at the end of

the growing season to further condition the soil.

• Soil conditions are important for proper

tilling. Tines will not readily penetrate

dry, hard soil which may contribute to excessive bounce and difficult handling of your tiller. Hard soil should be mois-

tened before tilling; however, extremely

wet soil will "ball-up" or clump during till- ing. Wait until the soil is less wet in order

to achieve the best results. When tilling

in the fall, remove vines and long grass to prevent them from wrapping around the tine shaft and slowing your tilling

operation.

• You will find tilling much easier ifyou leave a row untilled between passes.

Then go back between tilled rows There are two reasons for doing this. First, wide turns are much easier to negoti- ate than about-faces. Second, the tiller won't be pulling itself, and you, toward

the row next to it.

• Set depth stake and wheel height for

shallow tilling when working extremely

hard soil or sod. Then work across the

first cuts at normal depth.

CULTIVATING Cultivating is destroying the weeds be-

tween rows to prevent them from robbing

nourishment and moisture from the plants. At the same time, breaking up the upper layer of soil crust will help retain moisture

in the soil. Best digging depth is 1"-3".

• You will probably not need to use the

depth stake. Begin by tipping the depth stake forward until it is held by the stake

spring.

• Cultivate up and down the rows at a

speed which will allow tines to uproot weeds and leave the ground in rough condition, promoting no further growth of weeds and grass.

/ IgSCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES _ _o _,_ 4

AS YOU COMPLETE _O_/._?_;

REGU LAR SERVICE /_/_/_/z_/

Check Engine Oil Level _ Change Engine Oil 1_1,2

Oil Pivot Points I_

SERVICE DATES

Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler

Inspect Air Screen

Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge

Clean Engine Cylinder Fins

Replace Spark Plug 1- Changemoreoften whenoperatingunder a heavyloador in highambienttemperatures.

2- Servicemore often whenoperatingin dirtyor dustyconditions.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tiller does not cover

items that have been subjected to op- erator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must

maintain tiller as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your tiller. All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and check tines and belts for wear. A

new spark plug and clean air filter as- sure proper air-fuel mixture and help

your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check tine operation.

3. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI- CATION CHART").

Q Engine ' ifi__'_b

;...../

Liy,--

@ Idler Arm

O SAE 30 OR 10W-30 Motor Oil _) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section

LUBRICATION CHART

• Tine Control

_lLCAUTION:Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance

(except carburetor adjustment) to prevent

accidental starting of engine.

Prevent fires! Keep the engine free of

grass, leaves, spilled oil, or fuel. Remove fuel from tank before tipping unit for main- tenance. Clean muffler area of all grass, dirt, and debris.

Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as

contact may cause burns.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade ac-

cording to your expected temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

.30 .20 ._0 0 20 30 40 TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

o_1 v[s_ e_rll e

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W-30, 10W-30, etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils

will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F (0°C). Check your

engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low

on oil. Change the oil after every 50 hours of

operation or at least once a year if the tiller is not used for 50 hours in one year. Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Add SAE 30 mo-

tor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug

securely each time you check the oil level.

5. Refill engine with oil. See "FILL ENGINE WITH OIL" in the Operation

section of this manual.

Oil Drain

Plug,,

Oil Level

Oil Filler Plug

AIR CLEANER

Service air cleaner cartridge every

twenty-five hours, more often if engine is

used in very dusty conditions.

1. Loosen air cleaner screw.

2. Remove air cleaner cover.

3. Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge.

Be careful. Do not allow dirt or debris

to fall into carburetor.

4. Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur- face.

NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace

cartridge.

5. Clean and replace cover. Tighten

screw securely.

_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean

cartridge. They may cause deterioration of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do

not use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

Air Cleaner

idge

Cover

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

Determine temperature range expected before oil change. All oil must meet API

service classification SF-SJ.

• Be sure tiller is on level surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

1. Remove drain plug.

2. Tip tiller forward to drain oil.

3. After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug and tighten se- curely.

4. Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to allow dirt to enter the engine.

Air Cleane

COOLING SYSTEM

Your engine is air cooled. For proper en- gine performance and long life keep your engine clean.

• Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-bristled brush.

• Remove blower housing and clean as necessary.

• Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.

Muffler

MUFFLER

Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do

not tamper with exhaust system. Dam- aged mufflers or spark arresters could create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically

and replace if necessary. If your engine is equipped with a spark arrester screen as- sembly, remove every 50 hours for clean-

ing and inspection. Replace if damaged.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each tilling season or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first. Spark plug

type and gap setting are shown in "PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 4 of this

manual.

TRANSMISSION

Your transmission is sealed and will not

require lubrication unless serviced.

CLEANING

Do not clean your tiller when the engine

and transmission are hot. We do not rec- ommend using pressurized water (garden

hose, etc.) to clean your unit unless the gasket area around the transmission and the engine muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine will shorten the useful life of your

tiller.

• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all foreign matter.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• Protect painted surfaces with auto-

motive type wax.

_ILCAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come into contact with plug.

TILLER

TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT

Factory assembly has provided lowest handle height. Select handle height best

suited for your tilling conditions. Handle

height will be different when tiller digs into

soil.

1. If a higher handle height is desired, loosen the four nuts securing handle panel to engine brackets.

2. Slide handle panel to desired location.

3. Tighten the four nuts securely.

_ Engine Brackets

Handle Panel

Nuts(Also 2

on Left Side

TINE ARRANGEMENT

Your outer tines can be assembled in several different ways to suit your tilling or

cultivating needs.

_CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear

gloves or other protection when handling tines.

NORMAL TILLING - 24" PATH

• Assemble holes "A" in tine hubs to holes "B" in tine shaft.

Outer Tine

Hairpin Clip

MID-WIDTH TILLING - 22" PATH

• Assemble holes "A" in tine hubs to holes "C" in tine shaft.

of Tiller

NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING -

12-3/4" PATH

• Remove outer tines.

coo ool

Inner Tines Onl

NOTE: When reassembling outer tines, be sure right tine assembly (marked "R")

and left tine assembly (marked "12')are

mounted to correct side of tine shaft.

TINE OPERATION CHECK _ILWARNING: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug to prevent starting while

checking tine operation.

For proper tine operation, tine control lever

must be against control body and all slack removed from inner wire of control cable

when control is in the "OFF" (up) position.

If lever and cable are loose, loosen cable

clip at lower end of cable. Pull up on cable to remove slack, without extending spring on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.

FINAL CHECK "OFF" POSITION

1. With tine control "OFF" (up), push down on handle to raise tines off the

ground.

2. Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines. Tines should not

rotate.

3. If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable is too tight which is extend-

ing lower spring and engaging tines. Loosen cable clip and push down on cable only enough to relieve spring ten- sion. Tighten cable clip.

4. Recheck in "OFF" position and adjust if necessary.

FINAL CHECK "ON" POSITION

5. With tine control "ON" (held down to handle) push down on handle to raise

tines off the ground.

6. Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines. Tines should rotate

forward.

7. If tines do not rotate, inner wire of con-

trol cable is too loose. Loosen cable

clip and pull cable up to remove slack and retighten clip.

8. Recheck in "ON" position and adjust if necessary.

NOTE: If "ON" position check required adjustment, recheck "OFF" position ad-

justment to insure tines do not rotate when

control is "OFF" (up).

Tine Control "OFF" Position

Tine Control Cable

Cable Clip .__ f'/_?/i//_.._

TO REMOVE BELT GUARD

1. Remove screws from side of belt guard.

2. Pull belt guard out and away from unit.

3. Replace belt guard by reversing above procedure. Be sure slot in bottom of belt guard is under head of tine shield bolt and all nuts are tightened securely.

, "--/., Belt

_f(_ Guard

Screw

_._ /_ _w Screw

TO REPLACE V-BELT

Replace V-belt if it has stretched consid-

erably or if it has cracks or frayed edges.

1. Belt guard must be removed to ser- vice belt. See "TO REMOVE BELT

GUARD" in this section of manual.

BELT REMOVAL

2. Remove V-belt from transmission pul- ley first and then from engine pulley.

BELT REPLACEMENT

Install new V-belt to engine pulley first

then to transmission pulley. Be sure

belt is positioned on inside groove of both pulleys, inside all belt guides and

rests on idler pulley.

CHECK TINE OPERATION

4. See "TINE OPERATION CHECK" in this section of manual.

5. Replace belt guard

Belt Guide

Engine Pull

Idler Pulley Transmission

Belt Guide Pulley

ENGINE

Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customers ex- pense, may be performed by any non-road engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized engine manufacturer's service

outlet. TO ADJUST CARBURETOR

The carburetor has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. However, engine performance can be affected by differences in fuel, tem- perature, altitude or load. If the carburetor does need adjustment, contact your near- est authorized service center/department IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine governor, which is factory set for proper engine speed. Overspeeding the engine above the factory high speed setting can be dangerous. If you think the engine-governed high speed needs adjusting, contact your nearest sears or other qualified service center which has the proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments.

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917291480 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual