Craftsman 917292492 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRIIFTSMIIWI

FRONT TINE TILLER

WITH REVERSE

6.0 HP

26 InchTine Width

Model No.

917.292492

This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines, Before you start

the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

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

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.

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.

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

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

Storage ............................................... 16

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

Illustrated Parts List ............................ 38

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

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 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

equipment is to be used and remove all foreign objects.

• 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.

• 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.

_kLook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 3 Quarts

Capacity: 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

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

unassernbled 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.

_L,WARNING: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass covered land unless the

engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local

or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the

California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws.

Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark 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

GAS CAN

TILLER MAINTENANCE

BELT

TINES SHEAR PIN

HAIRPIN CLIP

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

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

must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) Utility knife

(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

Left

_ Right

Operator's Position

(1) Manual

(1) Bottle Engine Oil

(2) Carriage Bolts

5/16-18 UNC x 2-1/2

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Lock

Washer

5/16

(2) Flange

Locknuts

5/16-18 UNC

(1) Hex Nut

5/16-18

UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HANDLE

_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.

2. Route cable(s) as shown and slide handle column onto handle mount.

3. Remove all packing from carton.

4. Secure handle column using two (2) carriage bolts and two (2) flange

Iocknuts. Tighten securely.

5. Cut away carton.

6. Route tine control cable(s) through plastic cable clip on handle mount.

NOTE: Cables must not touch the muffler.

7. Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid. Remove tiller from skid by pulling

backwards.

8. Remove screw securing depth stake to skid and discard the screw.

Tine Control

Handle Mount

3. Raise and position depth stake support to align holes in support with

holes "B" and "C" in engine brackets.

4. Install into holes "B" and "C" the

hardware removed earlier and one (1) each the same hardware from parts

bag. Tighten both bolts securely.

5. Tighten nut "A"

6. Assemble depth stake between depth stake supports with clevis pin and

hairpin clip.

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

Nut "A"

HexBolt, _ _"_"_ Lock Washer-_ / I/

_Depth

andHexNut _

Engine Bracket Halves

Stake Support

Depth Stake

Tine

Cables

Column

Carriage

Bolts

Flange

Locknuts

INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY

Loosen nut "A".

Remove hex nut, Iockwasher and bolt securing depth stake support to

engine brackets. Save the hardware

for reassembly.

Support Bolt

.Hairpin Clip

and Clevis Pin

Stake Spring

Holes "B" and "C" 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).

TILLING WIDTH

• Tilling width may be adjusted to better

handle your tilling conditions (See 'q-INE ARRANGEMENT" in the Service

and Adjustments section of this manual).

TINE OPERATION

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

this manual).

KNOW YOUR TILLER READTHIS OWNER'SMANUAL AND SAFETYRULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOURTILLER. Compare the illustrationswith yourtiller to familiarize yourself with the location of

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

These symbols ,may appear on yourTiller or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning,

33LLING FORWARD NEUTRAL RI_'VERSIE CAU13ON SLOW CHOKE FUEL

Reverse Tine Control

Forward Tine

Depth Stake

Recoil Starter

OR WARNING ON OFF

Choke Control

Control

Tines

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.

THROTTLE 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.

The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes,

which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your tiller and while tilling. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOWTO 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

"OFF (UP) Position

Forward Tine Control

"ON" (DOWN) Position

The depth stake should always be below the wheels for digging. It serves as a

brake to slow the filler'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

Throttle Control

Chokl

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.

_/_ clevis Pin

Wheel _

Depth Stake

TOTRANSPORT _I_CAUTION: 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.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE IMPORTANT:Bevery careful not to allow

dirt to enter the engine when checking or

addingoil orfuel. 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" inthe 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.

_I,CAUTION: 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. 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. _kCAUTION" 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 open flame.

TO START ENGINE

• I,CAUTION: Keep tine control in "OFF" position when starting engine•

When starting engine for the first time or if

engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra pulls of the recoil starter to move

fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. Make sure spark plug wire is properly

connected.

2. Place throttle control in "FAST"

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 'q'O ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual. NOTE: If engine does not start, see

troubleshooting points.

Plug

Throttle

Choke Control

Recoil

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

tine control to start tine rotation. Allow tines to rotate for five minutes.

• Check tine operation and adjust if necessary. See "TINE OPERATION

CHECK" in the Service and Adjust- ments section of this manual.

TILLING HINTS

_i_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 dry, 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 fine 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 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 de

J//

//'//

)th.

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.

o olo io o

O ©10 O O

O 0 0

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

Check Engine Oil Level V' ik/

Change Engine Oil I_1,_- Oil Pivot Points I/

SERVICE DATES

Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler

Inspect Air Screen

Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge

Clean Engine Cylinder Fins

Replace Spark Plug t - Change moreoftenwhenoperatingundera heavyloadorin high ambienttemperatures.

2 - Service more oflen whenoperallngIndirty ordusty conditions

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 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 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.

BEFOREEACHUSE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check fine operation.

3. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-

CATION CHART").

* Idll r Arm

SAE 30 or 10W30 Motor Oil

** Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section

LUBRICATION CHART

*Tine Control

_I_CAUTION: 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 API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

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 {east 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

" Oil Level

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.

_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean cartridge. They may cause deterioration

of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

Air Cleaner Cartridge

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 Cylinder Fins

Housing

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 into contact with plug.

TILLER TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT

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

suited for your tilling conditions. Handle height will be different when tiller digs

into soil.

1. If a higher handle height is desired, loosen the four nuts secudng 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

NORMAL TILLING - 26" PATH

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

_--- Clevis Pin Outer

Hairpin Clip Inner Tine

MID-WIDTH TILLING - 24" PATH

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

o o O O

NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING -

12-3/4" PATH

• Remove outer tines.

Tine_

TINEARRANGEMENT

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

cultivating needs.

• kCAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear gloves or other protection when handling

tines.

Ioo ool

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

and left tine assembly (marked "L") are mounted to correct side of tine shaft.

TINE OPERATION CHECK

_kWARNING: 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 "OFF" (up) position.

If lever and cable are loose, loosen cable clip at lower end of cable. Pull up on cable to remove slack, without extending

spring on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.

FINAL CHECK "OFF" POSITION

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

Cable Clip Tine Control Cable

TO REMOVE BELT GUARD

t. Remove two (2) cap nuts and washer_

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.

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 "OFF" position

adjustment to insure tines do not rotate when control is "OFF" (up).

Tine Control "OFF"

Positiion.

Tin,

"ON" Position

Nuts and

Washer

Guard

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 transmissior

pulley. Be sure belt is positioned on inside groove of both pulleys, inside

all belt guides and rests on idler

pulley.

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 arm. Tighten securely. Be sure belt is between reverse idler pulley and idler

arm pin.

8. Install belt to outside groove of transmission pulley. Be sure belt is

inside all beltguides and rests on outside groove of engine pulley.

CHECK TINE OPERATION

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

10. Replace belt guard.

FRONT VIEW REFERENCE

Reverse Idler Pulley.

Idler Arm Pin

Engine Pulley

FORWARD MOTION (INSIDE)V-BELT

S_\ ine Pulley Guide

Idler Pulley

Belt Guide

Idler

Pulley TransmissionPulley

REVERSE (OUTSIDE) V-BELT

Reverse Idler Pulley

Reverse Idler Arm Reverse (OUTSIDE) V-Belt Reverse

Idler

Arm Pin

Pulley

Bel'

Forward Guard

Bolt

Idler Pulley Transmission 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-road 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.

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.

_CAUTION: 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, 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.

+ 36 hidden pages

Craftsman 917292492 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual