Craftsman 917293492 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRHFTSMI N°J

REAR TINE TILLER WITH

DUAL ROTATING TINES

7.0HP 19 Inch Tine Width

Model No.

917.293492

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

This product has a low emission engine which operates

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 .............................................. 5

Operation .............................................. 8

Maintenance ....................................... 14

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 ...................... 14

Service and Adjustments .................... 16

Storage ............................................... 20

Troubleshooting ................................. 21

Illustrated Parts List ............................ 44

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, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 U.S,A.

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

_IP eri°d.

Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!H YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION" 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. _HI,WAFINING" Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline 4 Quads Capacity: Unleaded

Regular

Oil (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30

(Capacity: 19 oz.) (Above 40°F)

SAE5w-30/10W-30 (Below 40°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

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.

_iLWARNING: 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

TILLER PERFORMANCE

FUR_ENER I

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 (1) Wire cutter

(1) Tire pressure gauge (1) Screwdriver

(1) Pair of pliers (1) 9/16" wrench

OPERATOR'S POSITION

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the

operating position (standing behind tiller

handles).

LEFT

FRONT

RIGHT

OPERATOR'S

POSITION

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

/IIIIIII/Y

(2) Handle Locks

(1) Carriage Bolt 3/8-16 UNC x 1 Gr. 5

(1) Hairpin Clips

, (1) Flat Washer

13/32 x 1 x 11 Ga.

(1) Center Locknut

3/8-16 UNC

(1) Cable Clip

(1) Pivot Bolt 3/8-16 UNC Grade 5

(2) Shear Pins & Clips

(1) Handle Lock Lever

UNPACKING CARTON

_I_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 cables.

1. While holding handle assembly, cut cable ties securing handle assembly to top frame. Let handle assembly

rest on tiller.

2. Remove top frame of carton.

3. Slowly ease handle assembly up and place on top of carton.

4. Cut down right hand front and right hand rear corners of carton. Lay side

carton wall down.

5. Remove packing material from handle assembly.

Shift Rod

Assembly

INSTALL HANDLE

1. Insert the thicker black handle lock (with teeth facing to the right) in

gearcase notch. VIEWED FROM R.H. SIDE OF TILLER

Gearcase Notch

Handle Lock

3. Rotate handle assembly down. Insert rear carriage bolt first, with head of

bolt on L.H. side of tiller and loosely assemble Iocknut.

4. Insert pivot bolt in front part of plate

and tighten.

5. Cut down left hand rear corner of

carton. Lay rear carton wall down, which will remove the protective

cardboard flap from leveling shield.

6. Cut down remaining corners of carton

and lay panels flat.

7. Lower the handle assembly. Tighten nut on carriage bolt so handle moves

with some resistance. This will allow for easier adjustment.

8. Place flat washer on threaded end of handle lock lever.

9. Insert handle lock lever through handle base and gearcase. Screw in

handle lock lever just enough to hold lever in place.

10.Insert the smaller silver handle lock (with teeth inward) in the slot of the

handle base (just inside of washer).

11.With handle assembly in lowest

position, securely tighten handle lock

lever by rotating clockwise. Leaving handle assembly in lowest position

will make it easier to remove tiller from carton.

Flat Washer Handle Lock

Handle Lock, Lever

Slot

Grasp handle assembly. Hold in "up" Rear Cartridge position. Be sure handle lock remains B/olt

in gearcase notch. Slide handle _ assembly into position.

6 Handle Base

.__ Pivot Bolt

Locknut

INSERT CABLE CLIP

• Insert plastic cable clip into hole on the back of handle column, Push cables

into clip.

Handle Column

Cable Clip

CONNECT SHIFT ROD

1 Insert end of _.h,fl rod ,ntO h_l_ of Sh,q

lever rod,cater

2 Insert ha,fp_n chp lhtouqh hOIe Of shift

rod |0 Secure

I_ ,1_,,,_CTp h_,] ".'ltOf

REMOVE TILLER FROM CRATE

1. Adjust handle assemby to lowest position. Be sure lock lever is tight- ened securely.

2, Make sure shift lever indicator is in "N"

(neutral) position.

3, Tilt tiller forward by lifting handle.

Separate cardboard cover from leveling shield.

4. Rotate tiller handle to the right and pull tiller out of carton.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your unit were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct

and equal tire pressure is important for

best hllmg performance.

• Reduce hre pressure to 20 PSI.

HANDLE HEIGHT

• Handle height may be adjusted to

better suit operator. (See "TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual).

KNOW YOUR TILLER

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

TILLER.

Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

. s,o.

TILLING TILLING FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE O_ WARNING ON OFF

Throttle Control

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE CAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL

;hift Lever

Drive Control Bar

Drag

Depth

Leveling Shield

, Recoil

Outer Side Shield

MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

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

DRIVE CONTROL BAR - Used to engage

tines.

DEPTH STAKE - Controls depth at which

tiller will dig.

DRAG STAKE - Controls forward speed in forward rotating till position.

OUTER SIDE SHIELD - Adjustable to protect small plants from being buried.

Shift Lever Indicator

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed. LEVELING SHIELD - Levels tilled soil.

SHIFT LEVER - Used to shift transmission gears.

SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR - Shows which gear the transmission is in.

RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to

start the engine.

Starter Handle

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.

HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER Know how to operate all controls before

adding fuel and oil or attempting to start

engine.

STOPPING

TINES AND DRIVE

1. Release drive control bar to stop

movement.

2. Move shift lever to "N" (neutral) position.

ENGINE

• Move throttle control to "STOP" posi-

tion. If equipped with stop switch, move

switch to "STOP" position.

NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.

Drive Control Bar

"ENGAGED'

Shift Lever

HARD TO SHIFT GEARS

• Briefly engage drive control bar and release or rock tiller forward and

backward until are able to shift gears.

DEPTH STAKE The depth stake can be raised or

lowered to allow you more versatile tilling and cultivating, or to more easily

transport your tiller.

Shallowest Tilling

_'Transport Position

Deepest Tilling

Depth Stake

Drive Control Bar "DISENGAGED" Position

TINE OPERATION - WITH WHEEL

DRIVE

• Always release drive control bar before moving shift lever into another posi-

tion.

• Tine movement is achieved by moving shift lever to either the counter rotating

(_,) till position or the forward rotating (_) till position and engaging drive

control bar.

FORWARD - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED

• Release drive control bar and move shift lever indicator to "F" (forward)

position. Engage drive control bar and tiller will move forward.

REVERSE - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED

1. DO NOT STAND DIRECTLY BEHIND

TILLER.

2. Release the drive control bar.

3. Move throttle control to "SLOW"

position.

4. Move shift lever indicator to "R"

(reverse) position.

5. Hold drive control bar against the handle to start tiller movement.

DRAG STAKE

The drag stake should be raised when

tilling the counter rotating (_) till position. The drag stake should be lowered when tilling in the forward rotating (_;) till

position.

Lowered _ (Forward Rotating till)

Raised (Counter rotating till)

TILLING

NOTE: Use the counter rotating tine drive when tilling hard or rockey soil, virgin

ground or sod.

1. Release depth stake and drag stake pins. Pull the depth stake up for increased tilling depth. Raise the

drag stake, Place proper pin in hole of depth stake or drag stake to lock in

position.

2. Place shift lever indicator in counter rotating (_) till position.

3. Hold the drive control bar against the handle to start tilling movement. Tines

and wheels will both turn.

4. Move throttle control to "FAST" position for deep tilling.

IMPORTANT: Always release drive

control bar before moving shift lever into

another position.

"Locked" Position

Depth )r Drag

Position

Nut

Outer Side Shield

TURNING

1. Release the drive control bar.

2. Move throttle control to "SLOW" position.

3. Place shift lever indicator in "F"

(forward) position. Tines will not turn.

4. Lift handle to raise tines out of ground.

5. Swing the handle in the opposite

direction you wish to turn, being

careful to keep feet and legs away from tines.

6. When you have completed your turn-

around, release the drive control bar and lower handle. Place shift lever in

(till) position and move throttle control to desired speed. To begin tilling. hold drive control bar against the

handle.

CULTIVATING NOTE: Use the forward rotating tree dnve

when cultivating, tilling soft ground or tilling pre-tilled soil.

1. Release the depth and drag slake pins. Lower drag stake. Pull the deplh

stake up for increased tilling depth.

Place proper pin in hole of depth stake or drag stake to lock in position.

2. Place shift lever indicator in forward to

rotating (_:) till position.

3. Hold the drive control bar against the

handle to start tilling movement. Tines and wheels will both turn.

4. Move throttle control "FAST" position for deep tilling. To cultivate, throttle

control can be set at any desired speed, depending on how fast or slow

you wish to cultivate.

IMPORTANT: Always lower the drag stake when using the forward rotating tine

drive.

OUTER SIDE SHIELDS

The back edges of the outer side shields are slotted so that the shields can be

raised for deep tilling and lowered for shallow tilling to protect small plants from

being buried.

1. Loosen nut "A" in slot and nut "B".

2. Move shield to desired position (both sides).

3. Retighten nuts.

TO TRANSPORT

_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. Release the depth stake pin. Move the depth stake down to the top hole

for transporting the tiller. Place depth stake pin in hole of depth stake to lock

in position. This prevents tines from scuffing the ground.

2. Place shift lever indicator in "F" (forward) position for transporting.

3. Hold the drive control bar against the

handle to start tiller movement. Tines

will not turn.

4. Move throttle control to desired speed.

AROUND TOWN

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.

2. Drain fuel tank.

3. Transport in upright posd_on to

prevent od leakage

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

IMPORTANT Be very careful not to allow d_rt Io enler the en(]_ne _,hen checkang or

adding oil or tuel U_e clean ed and fuel

and store _n a_pfoved cledn, covered cor_l,l_ners u_e clean hll funnels

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your unal has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled with SAE 30 summer weight oil.

1. With engine level, clean area around oil filler plug and remove plug.

2. Engine oil should be to point of overlowing when engine is level.

• For approximate capacity see "PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 4 of this manual. All oil must meet A.P.I.

Service Classification SF-SJ.

3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten

• 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 Mainte- nance section in this manual.

Oil Fill _ _o_,

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 products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

_I_CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow

for fuel expansion. If gasoline is 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 A, 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. Move shift lever indicator to "N" (neutral) position.

3. Place throttle control in "FAST" position.

4. Turn fuel shut-off valve 1/4 turn to open position.

5. Push stop switch to "ON" position.

6. Move choke control to "CHOKE" position.

7. 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).

8. 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.

9. When engine starts, slowly move choke control to "RUN" position as

engine warms up.

NOTE: A warm engine requires less choking to start.

10. Move throttle control to desired running position.

11.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.

Fuel shut-off Choke controls

Rewind starter _

TILLING HINTS

CULTIVATING

_aaCAUTION: Until you are accustomed to

ndling your tiller, start actual field use

with throttle in slow position (mid-way between "FAST" and "IDLE").

• 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 un- wanted vegetation. The decomposition

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 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 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.

• Do not lean on handle. This takes weight off the wheels and reduces traction. To get through a really tough

section of sod or hard ground, apply upward pressure on handle or lower the depth stake.

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" (2.5-7.5 cm). Lower the outer side shields to protect small plants from being buried.

• 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.

• Do not lean on handle, this takes weight off the wheels, reduces traction, and may cause the tiller to skip over the

ground.

• Always lower the drag stake when using the forward rotating tine drive.

,,=% _

_, ,,J

TINE SHEAR PINS

The tine assemblies on your tiller are

secured to the tine shaft with shear pins (See "TINE REPLACEMENT" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). If the tiller is unusually overloaded or

jammed, the shear pins are designed to

break before internal damage occurs to

the transmission.

• If shear pin(s) break, replace only with those shown in the Repair Parts

section of this manual.

ADJUST WHEELS FOR CULTIVATING

1. Place blocks under right hand side of tiller and remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from right hand wheel.

2. Move wheel outward approximately 1

inch until hole in inner wheel hub lines up with inner hole in axle.

3. Replace clevis pin and hairpin clip on

inside of wheel and remove blocks.

4. Repeat preceding steps on left hand

side.

NOTE: In extremely rough conditions and while cultivating, the wheels should

be moved outward on the axle for increased stability.

OUTER VIEW OF TIRE

Clevis

Hairpin Cllip

INNER VIEW OF TIRE

Clevis Pin

Hairpin

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE

Check Engine Oil Level If V'

Change Engine Oil I_12 Oil Pivot Points I_

I°+I+/+Y+Y+7

SERVICE DATES

inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler Inspect Air Screen

Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge

Clean Engine Cylinder Fins

Replace Spark Plug

RH Gear Case Grease Fitting (1oz.) 1+Change more oftenwhenoperating under a heavyload orin high ambient temperatures

2 - Service more oftenwhen operating in dirty or dusty 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

** Engine

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.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check tine operation.

* Idler Bracket

SAE 30 or 5W-30 Motor Oil ** Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section *** EP #1 Grease

3. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

* Throttle Control

***RH Gear Case/_ Grease Fitting J-

Stake Pin

Depth

Stake Pin

Shield Hinges

Wheet Hub

LUBRICATION

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

_kCAUTION: 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

20 30 40

C .30 20 10 4 10 20 30

TEMPERATURE RANG_E ANTICIPATED BEFORE N_T OIL C_A'N GE

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 40°F (4°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.

• Use a funnel to prevent oil spill on tiller, and catch oil in a suitable container.

1. Remove drain plug. For easier removal of plug use 7/16-

12 Pt. socket with extension.

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 "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL" in the Operation

section of this manual.

\ / Oil Fill Plug

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter. Clean the foam pre-cleaner after every 50 hours of operation or every

season. Service paper cartridge every

100 hours of operation or every season,

whichever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under

dusty conditions.

1. Remove knob and cover. Lift air cleaner assembly off stud.

TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER

2. Remove foam pre-cleaner from air filter.

3. Wash it in liquid detergent and water.

4. Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth. NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace

pre-cleaner.

5. Reinstall pre-cleaner onto air filter.

6. Reinstall cover and secure with knob. TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE

1. Carefully remove cartridge to prevent debris from entering carburetor.

Clean base carefully to prevent debris from entering carburetor.

2. Remove foam pre-cleaner from air filter.

3. Clean cartridge by tapping gently on flat surface. If very dirty or damaged,

replace cartridge.

4. Reinstall pre-cleaner onto air filter.

5. Reinstall cover and secure with knob.

IMPORTANT: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean the cartridge. They may cause deteriora-

tion of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge.

Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

_----_ Cover Knob

Cover

Precleaner_... _I Cartridge

Bas:tUd "_i _

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.

• Keep cylinder fins, levers, and linkage free of dirt and chaff.

Screen

Muffler

MUFFLER

Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not tamper with exhaust system. Dam-

aged mufflers or spark arresters could create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically

and replace if necessary. If your engine is equipped with a spark arrester screen

assembly, remove every 50 hours for cleaning 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 is shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on

page 4 of this manual. TRANSMISSION

Once a season, lubricate the right hand gear case grease fitting with 1 oz. of EP #1 grease.

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.

J_.CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come into contact with plug.

TILLER

TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT

Select handle height best suited for your

tilling conditions. Handle height will be

different when tiller digs into soil.

1. First loosen handle lock lever.

2. Handle can be positioned at different settings between "HIGH" and "LOW" positions.

3. Retighten handle lock lever securely after adjusting.

(High) Position

, Handle Lock Lever

Position

TIRE CARE

ACAUTION: When mounting tires, unless beads are seated, overinflation can

cause an explosion.

• Maintain 20 pounds of tire pressure. If tire pressures are not equal, tiller will pull to one side.

• Keep tires free of gasoline or oil which can damage rubber.

TO REMOVE WHEEL

1. Place blocks under transmission to keep tiller from tipping•

2. Remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from wheel.

3. Remove wheel and tire.

4. Repair tire and reassemble.

Clevis Pin

TO REMOVE BELT GUARD

NOTE: For ease of removal, remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from left wheel.

Pull wheel out from tiller about 1 inch.

1. Remove two (2) screws from side of belt guard.

2. Remove hex nut and washer from bottom of belt guard (located behind

wheel).

3. Pull belt guard out and away from unit.

4. Replace belt guard by reversing above procedure.

Belt Guard

•Hex Nut and Washer

(Located Behind

Tire)

Screws

Hairpin Clip and Clevis Pin

TO REPLACE GROUND DRIVE BELT

1. Remove belt guard as described in "TO REMOVE BELT GUARD".

2. Remove old belt by slipping off engine pulley first then remove from transmis-

sion pulley.

3. Place new belt in groove of transmis- sion pulley and into engine pulley.

BELT MUST BE IN GROOVE ON TOP OF IDLER PULLEY. NOTE POSITION OF BELT TO GUIDES.

4. Check belt adjustment as described below.

5. Replace belt guard.

6. Reposition wheel and replace clevis pin and hairpin clip.

GROUND DRIVE BELT ADJUSTMENT For proper belt tension, the extension

spring should have about 5/8 inch stretch when drive control bar is in "ENGAGED"

position. This tension can be attained as follows:

1. Loosen cable clip screw securing the drive control cable.

2. Slide cable forward for less tension and rearward for more tension until

about 5/8 inch stretch is obtained while the

drive control bar is engaged.

3. Tighten cable clip screw securely.

Engine Pulley,,,

Idler Pulley

p Screw

Control Cable

More Tension

Extension Spring,

Transmission Pulley

TINEREPLACEMENT

_II,CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear gloves or other protection when handling

tines. A badly worn tine causes your tiller to

work harder and dig more shallow. Most

important, worn tines cannot chop and shred organic matter as effectively nor

bury it as deeply as good tines. A tine this

worn needs to be replaced.

New Tine Worn Tine

• To maintain the superb tilling perfor- mance of this machine the tines should

be checked for sharpness, wear, and bending, particularly the tines which are next to the transmission. If the gap

between the tines exceeds 3-1/2 inches they should be replaced or

straightened as necessary.

• For tines that are slightly worn, the bolted tine and hub assemblies can be

switched between sides to continue till- ing in the same tilling mode if tilling in a

different mode is desired then the bolted tine and hub assemblies should

be switched back to their original side so that the tine edge with the least wear

will be used.

_Trans_ission

Sharp Edgl

I I I I

3-1/2" MAX

Clip

Sharp Sharp Edges Edges

Hairpin Clip

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917293492 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual