Craftsman 917.296040 User Manual [en, es]
Owner’s Manual
REAR TINE TILLER WITH
DUAL ROTATING TINES
7.0 HP
17 Inch Tine Width
Model No.
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
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty
Safety Rules
Product Specifications
Assembly/Pre-Operation
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
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2 Maintenance
2 Service and Adjustments....
4 Storage
6 Troubleshooting
8 Illustrated Parts List
14 Sears Service
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...Back Cover
14
16
20
21
44
WARRANTY
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON ORAFTSMAN 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.
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.
SAFETY RULES
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 ail possible precautions when leav
ing fhe 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.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
AcAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent acci
dental starting when setting up, transport
ing, 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 4 Quarts
Capacity: Unleaded
Regular
Oil (API-SG-SL): 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
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).
REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENTS
Congratulations on making a smart pur
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation. But like all products,
it may require repair from time to time. That’s
when having a Repair Protection Agreement
can save you money and aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement
now and protect yourself from unexpected
hassle and expense.
Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:
• Expert service by our 12,000 profe
sional repair specialists.
• Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on all covered repairs.
• Product replacement if your covered
product can’t be fixed.
• Discount of 10% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 10%
off regular price of preventive mainte
nance check.
• Fast help by phone - phone support
from a Sears technician on products
requiring in-home repair, plus conve
nient repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a
simple phone call is all that it takes for you
to schedule service. You can call anytime
day or night, or schedule a service ap
pointment online.
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair
specialists, who have access to over 4.5
million quality parts and accessories.
That’s the kind of professionalism you can
count on to help prolong the life of your
new purchase for years to come. Purchase
your Repair Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information
call 1-800-827-6655.
SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE
For Sears professional installation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, in
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®
ACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when the tiller was purchased. They are also avail
able at most Sears Retail outlets and Service Centers. Most Sears Stores can order
repair parts for you when you provide the model number of your tiller.
ENGINE
SPARK PLUG MUFFLER AIR FILTER GAS CAN ENGINE OIL STABILIZER
TILLER PERFORMANCE
TILLER MAINTENANCE
BELT TINES SHEAR PIN HAIRPIN CUP
0
UNASSEMBLED PARTS
ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION
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).
FRONT
a
0,
LEFT
RIGHT
1 j
1
5. Remove packing material from handle
assembly.
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
Handle Assembly
Gearcase Notch
Handle Lock
—J
OPERATOR’S
POSITION
UNPACKING CARTON
AcAUTION: 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.
2. Grasp handle assembly. Hold in “up”
position. Be sure handle lock remains
in gearcase notch. Slide handle as
sembly into position.
3. Rotate handle assembly down. Insert
rear carriage bolt first, with head of
bolt on L.H. side of tiller and loosely as
semble locknut.
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 second 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
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.
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.
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 tilling performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to 20 PSI.
INSERT CABLE CLIP
• Insert plastic cable clip into hole on the
back of handle column. Push cables
Into clip.
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).
OPERATION
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
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.
F
4
riLLING TILLING FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE OR WARNING ON OFF
" f A©
N
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE
|\| fl ^ '
SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL O
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls depth at which
tiller will dig.
DRAG STAKE - Controls forward speed in
forward rotating till position.
DRIVE CONTROL BAR - Used to engage
tines.
LEVELING SHIELD - Levels tilled soil.
OUTER SIDE SHIELD - Adjustable to
protect small plants from being buried.
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to
start the engine.
SHIFT LEVER - Used to shift transmission
gears.
SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR - Shows
which gear the transmission is in.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control
engine speed.
8
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
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
(S) till position or the forward rotating
(g) 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 DIREOTLY 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.
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
DRAG STAKE
The drag stake should be raised when
tilling the counter rotating (g;) till position.
The drag stake should be lowered when
tilling in the forward rotating (g) till posi
tion.
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 (g) 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
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
fo 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 (ii) 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
AcAUTION: 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.PI.
Service Classification SG-SL.
3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten
10
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 Fill
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 deposifs 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.
ACAUTION: 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 sysfem 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
AcAUTION: 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.
11
Rewind starter
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 unfilled 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.
o o 0 0 0
o o 0 0 0
o o 0 0 0
o o 0 0 0
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.
11
P
P
5 6 7
P
PP
12
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
Pin
Hairpin CIlip
INNER VIEW OF TIRE
13
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES /
AS YOU COMPLETE /<
REGULAR SERVICE /^
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Oil Pivot Points
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler
Inspect Air Screen
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins
Replace Spark Plug
RH Gear Case Grease Fitting (loz.)
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
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SERVICE DATES
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.
At least once a season, check to see if
you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
• 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
©Throttle Control
® SAE 30 OR 10W-30 Motor Oil
@ Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE” section
0 EP #1 Grease
14
^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 SG-SL. Se
lect the oil’s SAE viscosity grade accord
ing to your expected temperature.
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
oiLvfsc_char!5_e(drt)
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 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 SG-SL.
• 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.
Remove drain plug.
1
For easier removal of plug use 7/16-12
Pt. socket with extension.
Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
2.
After oil has drained completely,
3.
replace oil drain plug and tighten se
curely.
Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to
4.
allow dirt to enter the engine.
5. Refill engine with oil. See “CHECK
ENGINE OIL LEVEL” in the Operation
section of this manual.
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 deterio
ration of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge.
Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
15
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 stiffbristled 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.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
^CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come into contact with plug.
TILLER
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT
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.
16
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.
Remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from
wheel.
3.
Remove wheel and tire.
4.
Repair tire and reassemble.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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