Owner’s Manual
CRflFTSMRN*
5.5 HP
24 INCH TINE WIDTH
FRONT TINE TILLER
Model No.
917,292390
Safety
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
Español
Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears. com|craftsman
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty
Safety Rules
Product Specifications
Assemb^....
Operation
Maintenance
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2 Service and Adjustments....
2
Storage
4 Troubleshooting
6
Illustrated Parts List............
Parts Ordering
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....Back Cover
13
3& 16
17
37
WARRANTY
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 wilt 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
applies for only thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman Tiller to the nearest Sears ser
vice center/department in the United States. This warranty applies only while this prod
uct is in use in the United States.
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
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 alt
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
(except where specifically recommend
ed 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 cautiorr to avoid slipping or
falling.
• 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
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 safely 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.
• Never operate the filler without good vis
ibility or light.
• Be careful when tilling in hard ground.
The tines may catch in the ground and
propel the tiller fonward. 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 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 peri
od.
^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: The engine exhuast from this
product contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth
defectd, or other reproductive harm.
PRODUCT SPECIRCATIONS
HORSEPOWER: 5.5 HP
DISPLACEMENT:
3ASOLINE CAPACITY:4 Quarts
CIL(API-SF/SG/SH):
CAPACITY; 20 or.)
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 exp>erience 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
tiller all parts and hardware you assemble
must be tightened securely. Use the cor
rect tools as necessary to insure proper
tightness.
13 CU. IN.
(221CC)
Unleaded Regular
SAE30
(Above 32®F)
SAE 5W-30
(Below 32”F)
Champion RJ19LM
orJ19LM
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
“Maintenance” and “Storage” sections of
this Owner’s Manual.
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 main
tained in effective working order by the
operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
California Pubiic 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 MUFFLER
1
TILLER MAINTENANCE
BELT
t®
AtR FILTER GAS CAN
or
TINES SHEAR PIN
c
ll
ENGINE OIL
è
STABILIZER
ê
HAIRPIN CUP
BAG OF PARTS
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
tilire all parts and hardware you assemble
must be tightened securely. Use the correct
tools as necessary to insure proper tight-
nOSSk
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) Utility knife
(1) Pair of pliers
(2) 1/2" wrenches
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
(1) Manual
(2) Lock
Washers 5/16
7^
(1) Plastic
Cable Clip
(2) Flange Locknuts
5/16-18 UNC
n
(1) Bottle Engine Oil
WWW ri ^
(2) Carriage Bolts 5/16-18 UNC x 2-3/8 Gr. 5
(2) Hex Nuts
5/16-18
(2) Hex Bolts
5/16-18 X 1-1/4
ASSEMBLY
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HANDLE
^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).
• Cut cable ties securing handle column.
• Slowly lift handle column up and slip
over handle mount.
• Remove packing from carton.
• Secure handle column to handle mount
using two (2) carriage bolts and two (2)
flange locknuts. Tighten both flange
locknuts securely.
• Remove packing material from handle
assembly.
• Insert plastic cable clip into hole in handie column.
• Route tine control cable through plastic
cable clip on handle column.
• Cut away carton.
• Cut cable ties securing illier to skid.
• Remove tiller from skid by pulling back
wards.
Engine Bracket Halves
Nut “A"
Depth Stake
Support
Stake
Spring
Depth
Stake
Support Bolt
"Hex Bolts, Lockwashers,
and Hex nuts
HANDLE HEIGHT
• Handle height may be adjusted to better
suit operator. (See “HANDLE HEIGHF
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).
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY
• Loosen nut “A”.
• Insert stake support between engine
bracket halves with stake spring down.:
• Bolt 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. j
TINE OPERATION
• Check tine operation before first use.
(See TINE OPERATION CHECK” in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).
6
OPERATION
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*
uct. Learn and understand their meaning.
I
TILUNG FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE CAUTKM ENGME ENGINE
Forward Tine
Control
Recoil Starter Handle
ORWARMNQ ON OFF
Depth Stake.
O
Choke Control
Throttle Control
Tine Shield
Tines
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards
Institute.
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed
tines in forward direction. and the depth at which the tiller will dig.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to
cold engine. start the engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine
speed.
OPERATION
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 a wide vision
safety mask over 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 forward tine control to stop for
ward movement.
ENGINE
• Move throttle control to “STOP" position.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
Forward Tine Control “OFF (UP) Position
Forward Ttne Control “ON" (DOWN)^
Position
Choke
Control
Throttle
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 fonvard 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 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 sec
ond or third hole from the top.
TRANSPORTING YOUR TILLER
AcAUTION: Before lifting or transport
ing, allow tiller engine and muffler to cool.
Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gaso
line from fuel tank.
AROUND THE YARD
• Tip depth stake forward until it is held by
the stake spring.
• Push tiller handles down, 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 hang tag 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
Till tiller back on its wheels and then re-
levei.
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
Maintenance section of this manual).
To change engine oil, see the
Maintenance 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“C), use fresh,
clean, winter grade gasoline to help insure
good cold weather starting.
WARNING: 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 damage the fuel system of an
engine white 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 untii 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,
^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 coritrol in “OFP
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.
• 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 wi№
one hand and grasp tiller handle with
other hand. Pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression
cycle (rope will pull 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.
• 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.
Spark Plug
Choke Control
Throttle Control
Recoil otarter
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 nec
essary. See “TINE OPERATION
CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
TILLING HINTS
AcAUTION: 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
dles 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 prop
erly in the soil being tilted. 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-
stable 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 “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 if you
leave a row unfilled between passes.
Then go back between tilled rows.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.
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 lay^er of soil crust will help retain
moisture in the soil. Best digging depth is
rto3".
• 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 ajlow tines to uproot
weeds and leave the ground in rough
condition, promoting no further
growth of weeds and grass.
0 0
0
0
0 0
0 0
0 0
o o o 0
0
o
0
0 0
0
V
o
10
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
ASYOUCOhflPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
MAINTENANCE
Wi/
/M
A
W/
SERVICE DATES
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Oil Pivot Points
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler
Inspect Air Screen
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Firrs
Replace Spark Plug
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy kud or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating In dirty or dusty contWions.
✓
✓
✓
✓
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-fuel 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 CHARr).
<2
✓
✓
✓
LUBRICATION CHART
•TINE
• SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL
•• REFER TO MAINTENANCE “ENGINE ’’
SECTION.
11
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 senrice classification SF, SG or
SH. Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
I I I I I M
pr .2Cr
_________
C -ay -2y -iy 0- 10* vor oor vr
TCMPERATURE RANGE ANTiaPATEQ BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
y 3(r 3g* * 40* BO* 9<r I«*
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,10W-30, etc.) improve starting in cold
weather, these multi-viscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32“F (CC). 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 start
ing the engine and after each five ^)
hours of continuous use. Add SAE 30
motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler
plug 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 plug.
• Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
• After oil has drained completely, Teplace
oK drain plug and tighten securely.
• 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 50
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.
• Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge.
Be careful. Do not allow dirt or debris to
fall into carburetor.
• Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur
face.
• If very dirty or damaged, replace car
tridge.
• 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.
Cover
Air
Cleaner
Screw
Air
Cleaner
Cartridge
COOLING SYSTEM
Your engine is air cooled. For proper
engine 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.
12
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.
TRANSMISSION
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 AND ADJUSTMENTS
^CAUTION: 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.
CLEANING
• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all
foreign matter.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of alt 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 - 24” PATH
• Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes
“B” in tine shaft.
Clevis Pin Outer Tine
V
Engine Brackets
Handle Panel
Nuts (Mso 2
on left side
of tiller)
Hairpin Clip \ Inner TineHairpin Clip \ Inner Tine
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 22*' PATH
* Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes
“C* in tine shaft.
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING 12-3/4" PATH
• Remove outer tines.
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines,
be sure right line assembly (marked “R”)
and left tine assembly (marked “L") are
mounted to correct side of tine shaft.
TINE OPERATION CHECK
^CAUTION: 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 “OFP (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
• With tine control “OFP (up), push down
on handle to raise tines off the ground.
• Slowly pull recoil starter handle while
observing tines. Tines should not
rotate.
• If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable
is too tight which is extending lower
spring and engaging tines. Loosen
cable clip and push down on cable only
enough to relieve spring tension.
Tighten cable clip.
• Recheck in “OFP 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 puli cable up to remove slack and
retighten clip.
• Recheck in “ON" position and adjust if
necessary.
NOTE: If “ON” position check required
adjustment, recheck “OFP position
adjustment to insure tines do not rotate
when control is “OFP (up).
Tine
Control
“OFP
Positiion '^ine Control
“ON” Position
Remove screws from side 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.
Screw
Screw
Belt Guard
Screw
TO REPLACE V-BELT
Replace V-belt if it has stretched consider
ably or if it has cracks or frayed edges.
Belt guard must be removed to sen/ice
belt. See “TO REMOVE BELT GUARD”
in this section of manual.
BELT REMOVAL
• Remove V-belt from transmission pulley
first and then from engine pulley.
BELT REPLACEMENT
• Install new V-belt to engine pulley first
then to transmission pulley.
14
Be sure belt is positioned on inside
groove of both puiteys, 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 Guide
Engine
Pulley
Belt _
Guide'X ^ Transmission
Idler Pulley py„ey
IDLE RPM ADJUSTMENT
• To adjust idle RPM, rotate throttle link
age counterclockwise and hoid against
stop while adjusting idle speed adjusting
screw to obtain 1750 RPM. Release
throttle linkage.
High speed slop 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
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the
emission control devices and systems,
which are being done at the customers
expense, may be performed by any non
road engine repair establishment or indi
vidual. Warranty repairs must be per
formed by an authorized engine manufac
turer's service outlet.
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has a high speed jet and
has been preset at the factory and adjust
ment should not be necessary. However,
minor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temper
ature, altitude or load. If the carburetor
does need adjustment, proceed as follows.
FINAL SETTING
• Start engine and allow to warm for five
minutes.
• With throttle control lever in “SLOW”
position.
Throttle Linkage
Screw
Throttle Stop
15
STORAGE
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 Maintenance 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 Maintenance
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 OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil. (See “ENGINE” in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual).
CYLINDER(S)
• Remove spark plug.
• 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
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM CAUSE
Will not start 1. Out of fuel.
2. Engine not “CHOKED”
properly.
3. Engine flooded. 3. Wait several minutes before
4. Dirty air cleaner. 4. Clean or replace air cleaner car
5. Water in fuel.
6. Clogged fuel tank. 6. Remove fuel tank and dean.
7. Loose spark plug wire. 7. Make sure spark plug wire is seat
8. Bad spark plug or
improper gap.
9. Carburetor out of adjust
ment.
Hard to start
1. Throttle control not set
properly.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner car
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.
CORRECTION
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.
ed properly on plug.
8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
9. Make necessary adjustments.
1. Place throttle control in "FAST
position.
tridge.
3. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
gasoline.
ed properly on plug.
6. Make necessary adjustments.
Loss of power
1. Engine is overloaded.
2. Dirty air cleaner. . 2. Clean or replace air cleaner car
3. Low ol! level/dirty oil.
4. Faulty spark plug. 4. Clean and regap or change spark
5. Oil in fuel.
6. Stale or dirty fuel.
7. Water in fuel. 7. Drain fuel tank and carburetor,
8. Clogged fuel tank. 8. Remove fuel tank and dean.
9. Spark plug wire loose,
wire.
10. Dirty engine air screen. 10. Clean engine air screen.
11. Dirty/clogged muffler.
12. Carburetor out of
adjustment.
13. Poor compression.
■ 17
1. Set depth stake and wheels for
shallower titling.
: tridge.
3. Check oil level/change oil.
plug.
5. Drain and clean fuel tank and
refill, and clean carburetor.
6. Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh
gasoline.
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
9. Connect and tighten spark plug .
11, Clean/replace muffler.
12. Make necessary adjustments.
13: Contact an authorized Sears
j Service Center/Department.
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Engine overheats 1. Low oil level/dirty oil.
2. Dirty engine air screen.
3. Dirty engine.
4. Partially plugged muffler.
5. Improper carburetor
adjustment.
Excessive bounce/
1. Ground too dry and hard,
difficult handiing
2. Wheels and depth stake
incorrectly adjusted.
Soil balls up or
1. Ground too wet. 1. Wait for more favorable soil condi
clumps
Engine runs but
1. Tine control is not engaged. 1. Engage tine control.
tiller won’t move 2. V-belt not correctly adjusted.
3. V-belt is off pulley(s).
Engine runs but
1. Tilling too deep.
labors when tilling
2. Throttle control not property
adjusted.
3. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Check oil level/change oil.
2. Clean engine air screen.
3. Clean cylinder fins, air 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.
tions.
2. Perform Tine Operation Check
3. Inspect V-belt.
1. Set depth stake for shallower till
ing.
2. Check throttle control setting.
3. Make necessary adjustments.
18
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