This product has a low emission engine which operates differ
ently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
CAUTION:
Read and follow ail
Safety Rules and instructions
before operating this equipment
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call;
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TILLER
For one (1) year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Tiller is maintained, lubri
cated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner’s manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in materia! or workmanship.
This Warranty does not cover:
“ Expendable items which become worn during norma! use, such as tines, spark plugs,
air cleaners and belts.
0 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
applies 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.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you tnay also have other rights which
vary from state to state, '
SEARS, ROEBUCKANDCO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
SAFETY RULES
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 oper
ate the equipment without proper
instruction,.
» Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, particulariy small children, and
pets.
PREPARATION
® Thoroughly inspect the area where the
equipment is to be used and remove ail
foreign objects.
o Disengage all dutches 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
cate. 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
(except where specifically recommend
ed by manufacturer).
Page 3
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,
o Exercise caution to avoid slipping or
failing.
“ If the unit should start to vibrate abnor
mally, stop the engine (motor) and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration 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
stalling. Disconnect the cord on electric
motors,
® Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust
fumes are dangerous,
e 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
behind and use care when backing.
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.
® Use only attachments and accessories
approved by the manufacturer of the
tiller (such as wheel weights, counter
weights, cabs, and the like),
® 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
accessories 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 thi
fuel tank inside a building where ignitioi
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 pei
od,
AcAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent acc
dental starting when setting up, transport
ing, adjusting or making repairs,
AWARNiNG: The engine exhuast from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defectd, or other reproductive harm.
Page 4
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER:
DISPLACEMENT:9,03 CU. IN.
GASOLINE CAPACITY:
OIL (APl-SF/SG/SH):
(CAPACITY: 20 oz.)
SPARK PLUG :
(GAP: .030")
Congratulations on your purchase of a
Sears Tiller. It has been designed, engi
neered and manufactured to give you the
best possible dependability and perform
ance.
Should you experience any problems you
cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized Sears Service
Center/Department. We have competent,
well-trained technicians 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
tilier all parts and hardware you assemble
must be tightened securely
3.75 HP
(148CC)
2 Quarts
Unleaded Regular
SAE30
(Above 32° F)
SAE 5W-30
(Below 32°F)
Champion J19LM
Use the correct tools as necessary to
insure proper tightness.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail
able on this product. Contact your nearest
Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
<• Read and observe the safety rules.
« Follow a regular schedule in maintain
ing, caring for and using your tiller,
» Follow the instructions under the
“Customer Responsibilities” and “Stor
age” sections of this Owner’s Manual.
AiWARNING: 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. See your
Sears Authorized Service Center for spark
arrester. Refer to the Repair Parts section
of this manual for part number.
ACCESSORIES
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
SPARK PLUG
M.
TILLER WlAINTENAM
BELT
MUFFLER
CE
AIR FILTER
TINES
GAS CAN
F
I
CLEVIS PIN
C
Î
ENGINE OIL
i >
tjB
HAIRPIN CUP
STABILIZER
n
Page 5
BAG OF PARTS
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY OPERATOR’S POSITION
A socket wrench set will make assembly When right or left hand is mentioned ir
easier Standard wrench sizes are listed, this manual, it means when you are in
(1) Utility knife the operating position {standing
(1) Pair of pliers behind tiller handles),
(1) Screwdriver
(2) 1/2" wrenches
Front
Right
Page 6
* « ______________________
___
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HAN
DLE
AiCAUTION: 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).
« Cut cable ties securing handles.
« The handle may be assembled in high
or low position. Slowly lift handle as
sembly up and align handle holes with
desired handle panel hole and slot.
« Loosely assemble hardware as shown.
Be sure the ‘
shorter {3/4" long) hex bolt is assembled
in lower hole of handle. Repeat for
opposite side. Tighten all hardware se
curely.
® Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid and
remove tiller from skid.
Handle Panel
Lock Washer
Flat
Washer
. Handle
Hex Bolts •
5/16-18x3/4"
Hex Boit
5/16-18x1”
Engine Bracket Halves
Depth
Stake
Support Bolt
Stake Spring
Hex Bolts, Lockwashers, 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
8 Check tine operation before first use,
(See ‘TINE OPERATION CHECK” in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).
Handles
Handle
Panel Bolts
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY
® Loosen nut "A".
® Insert stake support between engine
bracket halves with stake spring down.
« Boit stake support to engine brackets
with bolts, lock washers and nuts.
Tighten securely. Tighten nut “A”.
® Depth stake must move freely. If it does
not, loosen support bolt.
Page 7
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 location of vari
ous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the prod
Sears tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards
Institute
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages
tines in forward direction.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a
cold engine.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed
and the depth at which the tiller will dig,
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to
start the engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine
speed.
7
Page 8
The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes,
^3
which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields before starting your tiller and while tilling,. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO 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.
® Never use choke to stop engine.
0 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 sec
ond or third hole from the top.
TINE OPERATION
FORWARD
«» Squeeze forward 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 hair
pin clip and clevis pin. Change depth
stake to desired position. Replace the cle
vis pin and hairpin dip.
TRANSPORTING YOUR TILLER
AcAUTION: Before lifting or transport
ing, allow tiller engine and muffler to cool.
Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gaso-
iine from fuel tank.
AROUND THE YARD
® Tip depth stake forward until It is held by
the stake spring.
® Push tiller handles dowa, raising tines
off the ground.
® Push or pull tiller to desired location.
AROUND TOWN
® Disconnect spark plug wire.
® Drain fuel tank.
» 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 overflow
ing. For approximate capacity see
“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on
page 4 of this manual.
8
Page 9
® Tilt tiller back on its wheejs and then re
level.
® 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 Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual).
0 To change engine oil, see the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual
® Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline. (Use of leaded
gasoline will increase carbon and lead
oxide deposits and reduce valve life.)
IMPORTANT: When operating in
Temperatures below 32°F (0°Cj, use fresh,
clean, winter grade gasoline to help insure
good cold weather starting.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasoho! or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation 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 emp
tied 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 section of this manual for addition
al information. Never use engine or carbu
retor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
A CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow
for fuel expansion. If gasoline is acciden
tally spilled, move machine away from
area of spill. Avoid creating any source of
ignition until gasoline vapors have disap
peared. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
TO START ENGINE
ACAUTiON: 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.
0 Make sure spark plug wire is properly
connected.
« Place throttle control in “FAST' position.
» Move choke control to full “CHOKE”
position. Grasp recoil starter handle with
one hand and grasp tiller handle with
other hand. Puli rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression
cycle (rope will pul! slightly harder at this
point).
« Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not
let starter handle snap back against
starter. Repeat if necessary.
» If engine fires but does not start, move
choke control to half choke position. Pull
recoil starter handle until engine starts.
® When engine starts, slowly move choke
control to “RUN" position as engine
warms up.
NOTE: A warm engine requires less chok
ing to start.
® Move throttle control to desired running
position.
9 Allow engine to warm up for a few min
utes before engaging tines.
NOTE: if at a high altitude (3000 feet) or
in cold temperatures (below 32'"F), the car
buretor 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,
L
Spark Plug
Throttle Control
Choke Control
Recoil Starter
BREAKING IN YOUR TILLER
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine con
trol before you actually begin tilling.
Page 10
® 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 nec
essary. 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 (mid-way be
tween “FAST” and “IDLE”).
To help tiller move forward, lift up the han
dies slightly (thus lifting depth stake out of
ground). To slow down the tiller, press
down on handies.
If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the
wheels and depth stake are not set prop
erly in the soil being tilled. The proper set
ting 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” to 6". A tiller will
also clear the soil of unwanted vegeta
tion. The decomposition of this veg
etable 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 fur
ther 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 “bail-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.
o You will find tilling much easier if you
leave a row unfilled between passes.
Then go back over the entire area at
right angles. There are two reasons for
doing this. First, wide turns are much
easier to negotiate 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,
i m
....
\7\ iiriTi m
...
irwiil'i
' iliiTiifi It I
CMCM
mmn:
CULTIVATING
Cultivating is destroying the weeds
between rows to prevent them from rob
bing 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"to3".
■» 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.
10
Page 11
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
/5? / , / <0 / bd /
/-f/-y/
//V / Q / ^ / ^ /
f -X, f -X, f
?/§/§/§/ SERVICE DATES
fi
V 0/ iÜ/10/
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Oil Pivot Points
Inspect Spark Arrester / MuHler
inspect Air Screen
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins
Replace Spark Plug
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or In high ambient temperatures
2 ■ Service more olten when opsrallng In dirty or dusty conditions
a/
✓
^1.2
✓ 2
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tiller does not cover
items that have been subjected to opera
tor abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, 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
Adjustments 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 belt for wear. A
new spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper air-fuei mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
" Check engine oil level.
» Check tine operation.
' Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICA
TION CHART’).
* SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL
** REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILI
TIES "ENGINE ’’ SECTION.
LUBRICATION CHART
11
Page 12
Disconnect spark plug wire before per
forming any maintenance (except carbure
tor adjustment) to prevent accidental start
ing 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, SG or
SH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected temperature.
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 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the tiller
is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before start
ing the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Add SAE 30
motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler
piug securely each time you check the oil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
Determine temperature range expected
before oil change. All oil must meet API
service classification SF, SG or SH.
* Be sure tiller is on level surface.
« Oil will drain more freely when warm.
® Catch oil in a suitable container.
® Remove drain piug.
o Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
» After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely,
o Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to
allow dirt to enter the engine.
Refill engine with oil. See “FILL
ENGINE WITH OIL ” in the Operation
section of this manual.
AIR CLEANER
Service air cleaner cartridge every twentyfive hours, more often if engine is used in
very dusty conditions,
® Loosen air cleaner screws, one on each
side of cover.
« Remove air cleaner cover,
e Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge.
Be careful Do not allow dirt or debris to
fail into carburetor.
® Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur
face.
® If very dirty or damaged, replace car
tridge.
o Clean and replace cover. Tighten screws
securely.
AcAUTION: 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 car
tridge.
COOLING SYSTEM
Your engine is air cooled. For proper
engine performance and long life keep
your engine clean.
o Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-
bristled brush.
® Remove blower housing and clean as
necessary.
•» Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.
12
Page 13
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 is shown in “PROD
UCT SPECIFICATIONS” on page 4 of this
manual.
TRANSMISSfON
Your transmission is sealed and will only
require lubrication if it is serviced,
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not
tamper with exhaust system. Damaged
mufflers or spark arresters could create a
fire hazard, inspect periodically and re
place if necessary. If your engine is
equipped with a spark arrester screen
assembly, remove every 50 hours for
cleaning and inspection. Replace if dam
aged.
SERVICE ÀND ADJUSTMENTS
AcAUTION: 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.
® If a higher handle height is desired,
loosen the four nuts securing handle
panel to engine brackets,
® Slide handle panel to desired location.
* Tighten the four nuts securely,
Engirie Brackets
•Handle Panel
CLEANING
® Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc, of all
foreign matter.
® Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
° Protect painted surfaces with automotive
type wax,
We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean your unit unless the muffler,
air filter and carburetor are covered to
keep water out. Water in engine can result
in a shortened engine life.
TINE ARRANGEMENT
Your outer tines can be assembled in sev
eral different ways to suit your tilling or cul
tivating needs.
AcaUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when handling
tines.
NORMAL TILLING - 17" PATH
« Assemble holes "A” in tine hubs to holes
“B" in tine shaft.
Nuts (Also 2 on
left side of tiller)
MID-WIDTH TILLING -15" PATH
^ Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes
“C" in tine shaft.
(^f W
c
Page 14
NARROW T1LÜNG/CULT8VATING
12-3/4" PATH
» Remove outer tines,.
NARROW CULTIVATiNG -12-1/2" PATH
® Remove inner tines.
« Assembie hoies “A" in tine hubs to holes
"C" in tine shaft,
\
o ó I o
”o o Ò1 ® o
EDGING - 9-5/8" PATH
® Remove inner tines,,
® Assembie holes “A” in tine hubs to holes
"D” in tine shaft.
D A
? / °
I o o \>
^ o o I ^
Spring and engaging tines. Loosen
cable clip and push down on cable only
enough to relieve spring tension.
Tighten cable clip.
® Recheck in “OFF" position and adjust if
necessary.
FINAL CHECK “ON” POSITION
« With tine control "ON” (held down to
handle) push down on handle to raise
tines off the ground,
® Slowly pull recoil starter handle while
observing tines. Tines should rotate for
ward.
" 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.
« Recheck in “ON" position and adjust if
necessary.
NOTE: if “ON” position check required
adjustment, recheck “OFF" position
adjustment to insure tines do not rotate
when control is “OFF" (up).
Tine Control
"OFF" Positiion
Tine Control
"ON” Position
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines,
be sure right tine assembly (marked “R")
and left tine assembly (marked “L”) are
mounted to correct side of tine shaft.
TINE OPERATION CHECK
AwARNING: 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. Pul! up on cable
to remove slack, without extending spring
on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.
FINAL CHECK “OFF” POSITION
® With tine control “OFF" (up), push down
on handle to raise tines off the ground.
® Slowly pul! recoil starter handle while
observing tines. Tines should not
rotate.
0 If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable
is too tight which is extending lower
Idler Spring
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD
“ Remove cap nut and washer from side
of belt guard.
® Loosen (do not remove) tine shield nut
on underside of tine shield and cap nut
on top of belt guard.
® Pull belt guard out and away from unit.
* 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.
14
Page 15
Replace V-beli if it has stretched consider-
abiy or if it has cracks or frayed edges..
Beit guard must be removed to service
belt. See “TO REMOVE BELT GUARD”
in this section of manual.
BELT REMOVAL
® Remove V-belt from transmission puiiey
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
* See “TINE OPERATION CHECK" in this
section of manual.
REPLACE BELT GUARD
Belt
Belt Guide , ^ ' Guard
Bolt
FINAL SETTING
® Start engine and allow to warm for five
minutes.
" With throttle control in “SLOW” position.
IDLE RPM ADJUSTMENT
® To adjust idle RPM, rotate throttle link
age counterclockwise and hold against
stop while adjusting idle speed adjusting
screw to obtain 1750 RPM. Release
throttle linkage.
High speed stop is factory adjusted. Do
not adjust or damage may result.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the en
gine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed, overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed set
ting can be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs adjust
ing, contact your nearest authorized ser
vice center/department, which has the
proper equipment and experience to make
any necessary adjustments.
Engine ((j
Pulley
Transmission
Belt Guide
Pulley
ENGINE
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has a high speed fixed jet
and has been preset at the factory and ad
justment should not be necessary. How
ever, minor adjustments may be required
to compensate for differences in fuel, tem
perature, altitude or load. If the carburetor
does need adjustment, proceed as follows.
15
Page 16
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage
at the end of the season or if the unit will
not be used for 30 days or more,,
AcAUTION: Never store the tiller with
gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TILLER
« Clean entire tiller (See “CLEANING" in
the Customer Rpsponsibilities section of
this manual).
® Inspect and replace belts, if necessary
(See belt replacement instructions in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).
® Lubricate as shown in the Customer
Responsibilities section of this manual.
® Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
® Touch up all rusted or chipped paint sur
faces; sand lightly before painting.
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as the carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage,
also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam
age the fuel system of an engine while in
storage.
* Drain the fuel tank.
® Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
» Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
* Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add sta
bilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow the mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer
to allow the stabilizer to reach the carbure
tor. Do not drain the gas tank and carbu
retor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE 0!L
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil. (See “ENGINE" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual).
CYLINDERS
® Remove spark plug,
o Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder,
® Pull starter handle slowly several times
to distribute oil.
" Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
" Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
® Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt In your
gasoline will cause problems,
® If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and
dirt.
® Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do
not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe
which allows condensation to form and
will cause your unit to rust,
IMPORTANT: Never cover tiller while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
16
Page 17
PROBLEM \CAUSE 1
CORRECTION
Will not start
1. Out of fuel.
2. Engine not “CHOKED"
properly
3. Engine flooded3, Wait several minutes before
4.. Dirty air cleaner.4. Clean or replace air cleaner car
5. Water in fuel.
6. Clogged fuel tank.
7. Loose spark plug wire.
8. Bad spark plug or
improper gap
9 Carburetor out of adjust
ment..
Hard to start1. Throttle control not set
properly.
2.. Dirty air cleaner.
3. Bad spark plug or
improper gap.,
4, Stale or dirty fuel.,4 Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh
5. Loose spark plug wire.5 . Make sure spark plug wire is seat
6.. Carburetor out of.
adjustment.
1, Fill fuel tank.
2. See 'TO START ENGINE” in.the
Operation section,,
attempting to start.
tridge
5. Drain fuel tank and carburetor,
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
6 Remove fuel tank and clean.
7. Make sure spark plug wire is seat
ed properly on plug.
8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap,
9. Make necessary adjustments.
1. Place throttle control in “FAST”
position
2. Clean or replace air cleaner car
tridge.
I
3 Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
gasoline.
ed properly on plug.
6, Make necessary adjustments.
Loss of power1- Engine is overloaded,.
2, Dirty air cleaner.2 Clean or replace air cleaner car
3, Low oil level/dirly oil.
4, Faulty spark piug.
5, Oil in fuel.5, Drain and dean fuel tank and
6 Stale or dirty fuel,.6. Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh
7, Water in fuel,,7. Drain fuel tank and carburetor,
8., Clogged fuel tank.8- Remove fuel tank and clean.
9. Spark plug wire loose,,
wire.
10. Dirty engine air screen.10. Clean engine air screen.
11, Dirty/ctogged muffler,11. Clean/replace muffler.
I 12. Carburetor out of
I adjustment
I 13 . Poor compression,
1. Set depth stake and wheels for
shallower tilling
tridge.
3,, Check oil ievel/change oil.
4, Clean and regap or change spark
plug
refill, and clean carburetor.
gasoline.
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
9, Connect and tighten spark plug
12. Make necessary adjustments,.
I 13, Contact an authorized Sears
1 Service Center/Deparlmeni,
17
Page 18
PROBLEM 1
CAUSE j
CORRECTION
Engine overheats I
Excessive bounce/
difficult handling
Soil bails up or
clumps
Engine runs but
tiller won’t move
Engine runs but
labors when tilling
1, Low oil level/dirty oil.
2- Dirty engine air screen.
: 3. Dirty engine.
4. Partially plugged muffler.
1 5, Improper carburetor
adjustment,
1 - Ground too dry and hard,
2. Wheels and depth stake
incorrectly adjusted.
1. Ground too wet
1.. Tine control is not engaged.
2.. V-belt not correctly adjusted
3- V-be!t is off pulley(s).
Tilling too deep
2. Throttle control not properly
adjusted.
3. Carburetor out of adjustment
1. Check oil level/change oil.
2. Clean engine air screen.
3. Clean cylinder fins, ait screen, muf
tier area.
4. Remove and clean muffler
5. Adjust carburetor to richer posi
tion
1. Moisten ground or wait for more
favorable soil conditions.,
2. Adjust wheels and depth stake
1. Wait for more favorable soil condi
tions
1. Engage tine control.
2- Inspect/adjust V-beit
3. inspect V-belt
Set depth stake for shallower till
ing.
Check throttle control setting.
Make necessary adjustments..
18
Page 19
REPAIR PARTS
TILLER - - MODEL NUMBER 917.292200
HANDLE ASSEMBLY
PARTDESCRIPTION
KEY
NO.NO.
NO.
137175X574
1
272140512•Bolt, Carriage 5/16-18 UNC
73680500•Locknut, Crown 5/16-18
3
4
19111116
151473Handle, L.H
5
9266R
6
774760524■Bolt, Hex 5/16-18x1-1/2
83069J
9S206HGrip, Lever
3067J
11
3070JSpring, Extension
12
1319121414•Washer 3/8x7/8x14Ga
Bracket, Handle
X 1-1/2
■Washer 11/32 x 11/16 x 16 Ga.
Grip, Handle20
Lever, Control, Tine
Cable, Control, Tine
KEY PART
DESCRIPTION
NO.
14
74760516Bolt, Hex Hd 5/16-18x1
15
74760512Bolt, Hex Hd 5/16-18x3/4
16
10040500’Washer, Lock 5/16
17
7322050
18
98000129‘Nut, Flanged 5/16-18
19
72140506•Bolt, Carriage 5/16-18 x 3/4 Gr 5
9209R574Panel, Handle
22
151474
23
19131312
• STANDARD HARDWARE - - PURCHASE LOCALLY
NOTE:AII component dimensions given in U S, inches
1 inch = 25,4 mm
•Nut, Hex 5/16-18
Handle, R H
Washer 13/32 x 13/16 x 12 Ga
19
Page 20
REPAIR PARTS
TILLER - - MODEL NUMBER 917.292200
BELT GUARD AND PULLEY ASSEMBLY
KEY PARTDESCRIPTION
NO. NO.
123230506‘Screw, Set, Forged Socket,
2130811Pulley, Engine
3122955XBracket Assembly, Guard, Belt