Craftsman 917292491 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
ICRRFTSMRH°I
6.0 HP
26 INCH TINE WIDTH
FRONT TINE TILLER
WITH REVERSE
Model No.
917.292491
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Espafiol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Product Specifications .......................... 4
Assembly .............................................. 6
Operation .............................................. 7
Maintenance ....................................... 11
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TILLER
For two (2) years 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 workman-
ship.
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 11
Service and Adjustments .................... 13
Storage ............................................... 16
Troubleshooting ................................. 17
Illustrated Parts List ............................ 38
Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover
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
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained 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 retuming 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 may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing 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 disen-
gage the controls quickly.
• Never allow children to operate the
equipment. Never allow adults to
operate 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
• Disengage all clutches and shift into
neutral before starting the engine
(motor).
• 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
flammable.
• 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.
equipment is to be used and remove all
foreign objects,
2
• Use extension cords and receptacles
as specified by the manufacturer for all
units with electric drive motors or
electric 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
operating on or crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden
hazards or traffic. Do not carry passen-
gers.
• 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 operat-
ing the tiller.
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or
falling.
• If the unit should start to vibrate
abnormally, 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
leaving the machine unattended.
Disengage the tines, shift into neutral,
and stop the engine.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspect-
ing, 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 protec-
tive 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 tiller without good
visibility 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
intervals 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.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTIONH! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
AWARNING: 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.
3
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
GASOLINE 3 QUARTS
:APACITY: UNLEADED
REGULAR
OIL (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30
(ABOVE 32°F)
(CAPACITY: 20 OZ.) SAE 5W-30
(BELOW 32°F)
SPARK PLUG : CHAMPION
GAP: .030") RC12YC
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a Sears Tiller. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
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
instructionswill 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 as-
semble must be tightened securely. Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure
proper tightness.
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
"Storage" sections of this Owner's
Manual.
_IkWARNING: 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 arrester 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
available 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 AIR FILTER GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER
TILLER MAINTENANCE
BELT TINES SHEAR PIN
HAIRPIN CLIP
Q-h
4
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 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.
(t) Utility knife
(t) Screwdriver
(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
J|
E-,-1
Left _ Right
Operator's Position
(1) Manual
C ) Plastic
able Clip
UiliW!W!!l!l!
L_ (2) Hex Bolts
5/16-18 x 1-1/4
Rod Bracket
(1) Reverse
°1
(1) Clevis Pin
(1) Cotter Pin
(2) Hex Nuts
5/16-18 (2) Lock
_(1) Bushing Engine Oil
(1) Washer
9/32 x 1/2 x
14 Gauge
Washers
5/16
@
(2) Flange
Locknuts
5/16-18 UNC
(1) Bottle
0
(2) Carriage Bolts
5/16-18 UNC x 2-1/2
5
UNPACK CARTON
_CAUTION: Be careful of exposed
staples when handling or disposing of
cartoning material.
IMPORTANT: When unpacking and
assembling tiller, be careful not to stretch
or kink cable(s).
1. Cut cable ties securing handle column
and reverse rod.
2. Slide handle column onto handle
mount.
3. Remove all packing from carton.
ASSEMBLE HANDLE
1. Slide reverse rod through hole in
reverse rod bracket as shown.
2. Slide bushing over lower reverse rod
and snap into bracket hole.
NOTE: Make sure tine controlcable is
routed in front of reverse rod bracket.
3. Attach reverse rod bracket to handle
column using two (2) carriage bolts
and two (2) flange Iocknuts and
tighten securely.
4. Cut away carton.
5. Insert plastic cable clip into hole in
handle column.
6. Route tine control cable through
plastic cable clip on handle column.
7. Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid.
Remove tiller from skid by pulling
backwards.
Handle Mount
Tine
Carriage
Bolt
Tine Control
Column
ASSEMBLE REVERSE ROD
• Secure upper reverse rod to lower
reverse rod using clevis pin, washer
and cotter pin.
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.
Bracket Halves
"A" Depth
Stake
Bolt
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 Adjust-
ments section of this manual).
TILLINGWIDTH
• Tilling width may be adjusted to better
handle your tilling conditions (See
"I-INE ARRANGEMENT" in the Service
and Adjustments section of this
manual).
TINE OPERATION
• Check tine operation before first use.
(See "-FINE OPERATION CHECK" in
the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual).
Reverse
Rod Bracket,
Lower Reverse Rod
Reverse
Rod
; Pin
Flange Locknuts
6
KNOWYOURTILLER
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
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
11LUNG FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE
Reverse Tine
Forward "line
Depth Stake Shield
OR WARNING ON OFF
Choke Control
,-Throttle Control
Tines
O
Sears tillers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages
tines in forward direction.
REVERSE TINE CONTROL - Engages
tines in reverse direction.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting
a cold engine.
THRO'I-rLE CONTROL - Controls engine
speed.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed
and the depth at which the tiller will dig.
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to
start the engine.
7
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.
HOWTO USEYOURTILLER
Know how to operate all controls before
adding fuel and oil or attempting to start
engine.
STOPPING
TINES
1. Release forward tine control to stop
forward movement.
2. Release reverse tine control to stop
reverse movement.
ENGINE
• Move throttle control to "STOP" posi-
tion.
NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.
Reverse Tine Control Forward Tine Control
sition
I o JJ Forward Tine Control
,J_ "ON" (DOWN) Position
Throttle
Control
Choke
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
Wheel
TINE OPERATION
FORWARD
• Squeeze forward tine control to handle.
REVERSE
• With forward tine control =OFF" (up)
position, pull back and hold reverse
tine control.
TILLING
The speed and depth of tilling is regu-
lated by the position of the depth stake
and wheel height.
Hairpin Clip
Spring and Clevis Pin
TO TRANSPORT
ACAUTION: Before lifting or transporting,
allow tiller engine and muffler to cool.
Disconnect 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.
8
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
1. Remove hangtag from engine.
2. With engine level, remove engine oil
filler plug.
3. Fill engine with oil to point of overflow-
ing. 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
overflowing 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
Oil Filler
Plug
ADD GASOLINE
• 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 tem-
peratures 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 gasohoI 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
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 section of this
manual for additional information. Never
use engine or carburetor cleaner prod-
ucts 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
disappeared.
Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an o0en flame.
TO START ENGINE
ACAUTION: Keep drive control bar in
=DISENGAGED" 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"
position.
3. Move choke control to choke position.
4. Grasp recoil starter handle with 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).
5. Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do
not let starter handle snap back
against starter.
NOTE: If engine fires but does not start,
move choke control to half choke position.
Pull recoil starter handle until engine
starts.
6. When engine starts, slowly move
choke control to "RUN" position as
engine warms up.
NOTE: A warm engine requires less
choking to start.
7. Move throttle control to desired
running position.
8. 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
troubleshooting points.
9
Plug
Throttle
Choke
BREAKING INYOURTILLER
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine
control before you actually begin tilling.
• Start engine, tip tines off ground by
pressing handles down and engage
fine control to start tine rotation. Allow
tines to rotate for five minutes.
• Check tine operation and adjust if
necessary. See "-FINE OPERATION
CHECK" in the Service and Adjust-
ments 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
between "FAST" and "IDLE").
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 conditions, 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 vegetation. The decomposi-
tion of this vegetable 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
dq/, hard soil which may contribute to
excessive bounce and difficult handling
of your tiller. Hard soil should be
moistened before tilling; however,
extremely wet soil will "ball-up" or
clump during tilling. 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 untilled between passes.
Then go back between tilled rows.
There are two reasons for doing this.
First, wide tums 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
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" to 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.
OlO 0 o
'0 o10 o 0
!O010 0 0
'D 01o 0 0
10
SCHEDULE
MAINTENANCE o,_o/_. _
_ •
COMPL E
nE O< RSE°V,C
Check Engine Oil Level If b/'
Change Engine Oil 1_1,2
Oil Pivot Points If
Inspect Spark Armster / Muffler I/
Inspect Air Screen If
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge 1_2
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins I_
Replace Spark Plug IV/
1-Changemoreoftenwhenoperatingunderaheavyloadorin higharnl_entle_ratures.
2- ServicemoreoftenwhenoperatingindirtyorduslycondilJons.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tiller does not cover
items that have been subjected to
operator 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 propedy 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 belts 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
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check tine operation.
3. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").
** Engine
SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL
** REFER TO MAINTENANCE "ENGINE "
SECTION.
SERVICE DATES
LUBRICATION CHART
* Tine Control
11
ACAUTION: 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
maintenance. 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 APt service classification SF-SJ.
Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
"20 0 30 32 40 60
_0 -._ -_ _ lo _o ;o
TEMPERA'RJRE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
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
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-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
securely.
4. Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not
to allow dirt to enter the engine.
5. Refill engine with oil. See "FILL
ENGINE WITH OIL" in the Operation
section of this manual.
Oil Drain
Level
\Oil Filter
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
surface.
NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace
cartridge.
5. Clean and replace cover. Tighten
screw 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
cartridge.
Air CleanerCartridge
Cover
Air
Cleaner
Screw
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.
Muffler CylindE Fins
Housing
12
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 "PRODUCT 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
recommend 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 automo-
tive type wax.
_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come intocontact 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 loca-
tion.
3. Tighten the four nuts securely.
Engine Brackets
, on Left Side
of Tiller
l!_/HandlePanel/I_
NORMAL TILLING - 26" PATH
• Assemble holes "A" in tine hubs to
holes "B" in tine shaft.
_-_ Clevis Pin Outer
Tine\
Hairpin Clip \ Inner Tine
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 24" PATH
• Assemble holes "A" in tine hubs to
holes =C" in tine shaft.
C
2
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING -
12-3/4" PATH
• Remove outer tines.
TINE ARRANGEMENT
Your outer tines can be assembled in
several different ways to suit your tilling or
cultivating needs.
ACAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when handling
tines.
13
o o
J\
oo]
_ Inner Tines Onl
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines,
be sure right tine assembly (marked "R")
and left tine assembly (marked %") are
mounted to correct side of tine shaft.
TINE OPERATION CHECK
_I, WARNING" Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug to prevent starting while
checking tine operation.
For proper tine operation, forward 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 "OFP POSITION
1. With tine control "OFP (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 extending
lower spring and engaging tines.
Loosen cable clip and push down on
cable only enough to relieve spring
tension. 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
control 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 "OFP position
adjustment to insure tines do not rotate
when control is "OFP (up).
II Tine Control `OFP
"ON" Position
CableClip_ "FineControl Cable
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD
1. Remove two (2) cap nuts and washers
from side of belt guard.
2. Loosen (do not remove) tine shield
nut on underside of tine shield.
3. Pull belt guard out and away from unit.
4. 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.
Nuts and
Washer
3uard
TO REPLACE V-BELTS
Replace V-belts if they have stretched
considerably or if they show cracks or
frayed edges. There are two (2) V-belts -
forward (inside) and reverse (outside).
1. Belt guard must be removed to service
belts. See "TO REMOVE BELT
GUARD" in this section of manual.
NOTE: Observe carefully routing of both
belts and location of all belt guides before
removing belts.
BELT REMOVAL
2. Remove reverse idler pulley from idler
arm.
3. Remove reverse (outside) V-belt.
4. Remove forward (inside) V-belt from
transmission pulley first and then from
engine pulley.
BELT REPLACEMENT
5. Install new forward (inside) 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.
14
6. Before installing reverse (outside) V-
belt, turn belt "inside out". Twist so
wide, flat surface of belt is to inside.
7. Wrap V-belt around reverse idler
pulley and reassemble idler to idler Idler
arm. Tighten securely. Be sure belt is Arm Pin.
between reverse idler pulley and idler
arm pin.
8. Install belt to outside groove of Pulley
transmission pulley. Be sure belt is
inside all belt guides and rests on
outside groove of engine pulley. Forward
CHECKTINE OPERATION
9. See "FINE OPERATION CHECK" in
this section of manual.
10. Replace belt guard.
FRONTVIEW REFERENCE
Reverse Idler Pulle_
FORWARD MOTION (INSIDE) V-BELT
_"-_ E/ng_ Belt Guide
Idler Arm Pin
0 )
Belt Guide Fo_ward'_ k /
Idler "_ J
Pulley -,-.../____ _ n
REVERSE (OUTSIDE) V-BELT
Reverse Idler Pulley
Transmission Pulley
Reverse Idler Arm Reverse (OUTSIDE) V-Belt
Reverse
Idler
Belt,
Idler Pulley
ENGINE
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of
the emission control devices and sys-
tems, which are being done at the
customers expense, may be performed
by any non-read engine repair establish-
ment 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 perfor-
mance can be affected by differences in
fuel, temperature, altitude or load. If the
carburetor does need adjustment, contact
your nearest 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.
Bolt
Transmission Pulley
15
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.
_kCAUTION: 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
1. Clean entire tiller (See "CLEANING" in
the Maintenance section of this
manual).
2. Inspect and replace belts, if necessary
(See belt replacement instructions in
the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual).
3. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
4. Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
5. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; 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 damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. 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
stabilizer 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 carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank
and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
1. Remove spark plug.
2. Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
3. Pull starter handle slowly several
times to distribute oil.
4. 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 protec-
tive 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
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