Craftsman 917293493 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRnFTSMnN,I

REAR TINE TILLER WITH DUAL ROTATING TINES

7.0 HP 19 Inch Tine Width

Model No.

917.293493

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.

Important:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 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 Schedule ........................ 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 workmanship. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as tines, spark plugs, air cleaners and belts.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank- shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

• If this Craftsman Tiller is used for commercial or rental purposes, this Warranty applies

for only thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.

Warranty service is available by returning the craftsman 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 U.S.A.

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing 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 disengage the controls quickly.

• Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never allow adults to op- erate 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 (mo-

tor).

• Do not operate the equipment without

wearing adequate outer garments. Wear footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flam- mable.

• Use an approved fuel container.

• Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.

• Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.

• Replace gasoline cap securely and

clean up spilled fuel before restarting.

• Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by the manufacturer for all

units with electric drive motors or elec- tric starting motors.

• Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine (motor) is running (ex- cept where specifically recommended by manufacturer).

OPERATION

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.

• Exercise extreme caution when operat- ing on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (motor), remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating

the tiller.

• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or fall- ing.

• If the unit should start to vibrate ab- normally, stop the engine (motor) and

check immediately for the cause. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble.

• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating position.

• Take all possible precautions when leav- ing the machine unattended. Disengage the tines, shift into neutral, and stop the

engine.

• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, shut off the engine and make certain all

moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire

away from the plug to prevent accidental starting. Disconnect the cord on electric

motors.

• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are dangerous.

• Never operate the tiller without proper guards, plates, or other safety protective devices in place.

• Keep children and pets away.

• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting to till too deep at too fast

a rate.

• Never operate the machine at high speeds on slippery surfaces. Look be-

hind 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 vis-

ibility or light.

• Be careful when tilling in hard ground. The tines may catch in the ground and

propel the tiller forward. If this occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not restrain the machine.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

• Keep machine, attachments, and ac- cessories in safe working condition.

• Check shear pins, engine mounting

bolts, and other bolts at frequent inter- vals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

• Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where ignition

sources are present, such as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, and the like. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

• Always refer to the operator's guide

instructions for important details if the

tiller is to be stored for an extended

_period.

Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent acci- dental starting when setting up, transport-

ing, adjusting or making repairs.

_WARNING: 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 4 Quarts Capacity: Unleaded

Regular

Oil (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (Above 40°F)

(Capacity: 19 oz.) 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 per-

formance.

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 assemble

must be tightened securely. Use the cor-

rect tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in main- taining, caring for and using your tiller.

• Follow the instructions under the "Main- tenance" and "Storage" sections of this

,j_Owner's Manual.

WARNING: This unit is equipped with

an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be 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 ar-

rester 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 avail- able at most Sears Retail outlets and Service Centers. Most Sears Stores can order

repair parts for you when you provide the model number of your tiller.

ENGINE

SPARKPLUG_ MUFFLER AIR,FILTER [_GASCAN ENGINE_OIL STABILIZER

TILLER PERFORMANCE

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

(2) Handle Locks

(1) Carriage Bolt

3/8-16 UNC x 1 Gr. 5

(1) Hairpin Clips ( ( ) )

I 13/32 x 1 xll Ca.

o 0

(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

_CAUTION: Be careful of exposed sta-

ples when handling or disposing of carton- ing material.

IMPORTANT: When unpacking and as-

sembling tiller, be careful not to stretch or

kink 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

Handle

Assembly

INSTALL HANDLE

1. Insert one handle lock (with teeth fac- ing outward) in gearcase notch. (Apply grease on smooth side of handle lock

to aid in keeping lock in place until

handle assembly is lowered into po- sition.)

VIEWED FROM R.H. SIDE OF TILLER

_. andle Assembly

Gearcase Notch

/ "a d'e oc"

"UP" Position

Tighten handle lock lever to hold

Loosen Handle Lock Lever to Move

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

bolt on L.H. side of tiller and loosely as- semble Iocknut.

4. Insert pivot bolt in front part of plate and tighten.

5. Cut down left hand rear corner of car- ton. 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 posi- tion, 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

Lever

2. Grasp handle assembly. Hold in "up" position. Be sure handle lock remains in gearcase notch. Slide handle as- sembly into position.

Slot

Rear Cartridge

Bolt

Handle Base

Locknut _

INSERT CABLE CLIP

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

into clip.

Handle Column

REMOVE TILLER FROM CRATE

1. Adjust handle assemby to lowest position. Be sure lock lever is tightened securely.

2. Make sure shift lever indicator is in "N" (neutral) position.

3. Tilt tiller forward by lifting handle. Sep- arate cardboard cover from leveling

shield.

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

Cable Clip

CONNECT SHIFT ROD

1. Insert end of shift rod into hole of shift lever indicator.

2. Insert hairpin clip through hole of shift rod to secure.

Shift Lever

Hairpin ,_ Indicator

Shift Rod

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE The tires on your unit were overinflated at

the factory for shipping purposes. Correct and equal tire pressure is important for

best tilling performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to 20 PSI.

HANDLE HEIGHT

• Handle height may be adjusted to bet- ter 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.

N O

_ILUNG TELLING FOrWArD NEUTRAL REVERSE O_ WARNING ON OFF

Throttle Control

Drive Control Bar

Drac

Depth Stake _

Leveling

CALtT_ON ENGINE ENGENE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL O_L

Shift Lever Indicator

(_ Recoil

Outer Side Shield

Starter Handle

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.

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.

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 move-

ment.

2. Move shift lever to "N" (neutral) po- sition.

ENGINE

• Move throttle control to "STOP" position.

If equipped with stop switch, move

switch to "STOP" position.

NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.

Drive Control Bar

"EN( Position

Shift Lever

HARD TO SHIFT GEARS

• Briefly engage drive control bar and re- lease 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 cul- tivating, or to more easily transport your

tiller.

Shallowest Tilling

_ Transport Position

Deepest Tilling --

Depth Stake

Drive Control Bar

"DISENGAGED"

Position rol_

Throttle Cont

TINE OPERATION - WITH WHEEL

DRIVE

• Always release drive control bar before moving shift lever into another position.

• Tine movement is achieved by moving shift lever to either the counter rotating (_;) till position or the forward rotating (_) till position and engaging drive con-

trol 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" po- sition.

4. Move shift lever indicator to "R" (re-

verse) 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 posi-

tion.

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 or Drag

/)Stake Pin

_S"Released"

Nut

Nut"A" _Position

Outer Side

Shield

TURNING

1. Release the drive control bar.

2. Move throttle control to "SLOW" posi- tion.

3. Place shift lever indicator in "F" (for-

ward) 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 tine drive

when cultivating, tilling soft ground or till-

ing pre-tilled soil.

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

_CAUTION: Before lifting or transporting,

allow tiller engine and muffler to cool. Dis- connect 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" (for- ward) 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 position to prevent oil leakage.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE IMPORTANT: Be very careful not to allow

dirt to enter the engine when checking or adding oil or fuel. Use clean oil and fuel and store in approved, clean, covered

containers, use clean fill funnels.

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your unit 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 over- lowing 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 sec- tion of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte- nance section in this manual.

Oil

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will

increase carbon and lead oxide depos- its and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil

with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan- tities that can be used within 30 days to

assure fuel freshness.

_CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top

of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow for fuel expansion. If gasoline is acci- dentally spilled, move machine away from area of spill. Avoid creating any source of ignition until gasoline vapors have disap- peared. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open

flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in temper-

atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good

cold weather starting. CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called

gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separa-

tion 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 Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

_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" (neu-

tral) position.

3. Place throttle control in "FAST" posi-

tion.

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" posi-

tion.

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 posi- tion. 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 trou- bleshooting points.

Fuel shut-off Choke controls

,_1 i

Rewind star_'

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").

• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and breaking up packed soil before plant- ing. Loose, unpacked soil helps root growth. Best tilling depth is 4" to 6". A

tiller will also clear the soil of unwanted 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 mois-

tened before tilling; however, extremely

wet soil will "ball-up" or clump during till- ing. Wait until the soil is less wet in order

to achieve the best results. When tilling

in the fall, remove vines and long grass

to prevent them from wrapping around the tine shaft and slowing your tilling

operation.

• You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row untilled between passes.

Then go back between tilled rows.There

are two reasons for doing this. First, wide turns are much easier to negoti-

ate 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

Cultivating is destroying the weeds be- tween 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.

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

Hairpin Cllip

INNER VIEW OF TIRE

Clevis

Hairpin

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE / y yy SE V,OEO TES

Check Engine Oil Level I1_

Change Engine Oil 11_2 Oil Pivot Points I_

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 (loz,) 1- Change moreoften when operatingunder a heavy loador in high ambient temperatures.

2 - Sel_dcemoreoften when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tiller does not cover

items that have been subjected to op- erator 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 Adjust-

ments 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 as-

sure 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").

LUBRICATION CHART

OThrottle Control

®RH Gear Case

®Engi_ Grease Fitting

®Depth Stake Pin

Shield Hinges

®Idler Bracket ®Wheel Hub

O SAE 30 OR 10W-30 Motor Oil (3) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section

(3) EP #1 Grease

_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 main-

tenance. Clean muffler area of all grass, dirt, and debris.

Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as contact may cause burns.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SF-SJ. Se-

lect the oil's SAE viscosity grade accord-

ing to your expected temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

F 80

c .3o .G _ G _o 3o

TEMPERATURE 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 4O°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 mo- tor 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 se- curely.

4. Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to allow dirt to enter the engine.

ol vi_ _l_atl5 #/drll

Refill engine with oil. See "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEl" in the Operation

section of this manual.

\_ __ _iOil 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

1OOhours 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 deterio-

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

cartridge.

__---_---- Cover Knob

Prlciilrni _ Cartridge

COOLING SYSTEM

Your engine is air cooled. For proper en- gine 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.

•Blower Housing

Air 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 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 is shown in "PROD- UCT 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 rec-

ommend 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 auto-

motive 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

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.

.Handle (High) Position

",,'i,_. Handle Lock Lever

Handle (Low) Position

TIRE CARE

_CAUTION: 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

Hairpin Clip

TO REMOVE BELT GUARD

NOTE: For ease of removal, remove hair-

pin 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.

Guard

•Hex Nut and Washer

(Located Behind

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 trans- mission pulley.

3. Place new belt in groove of trans- mission 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

Clip Screw

Cable

More Tension

Extension Sprin_

Transmission Pulley

TINE REPLACEMENT •

_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

tilling 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.

Sharp

I I

--_ _ 3-1/2" MAX

Hairpin Clip

Sharp

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917293493 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual