Craftsman 987293330 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

II:RRFI"SMRN I

8 HORSEPOWER

REAR TINE TILLER

Model No: 987.293330

CAUTION: Before using this tiller, read

this manual and follow all its

Safety Rules and Operating Instructions,

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

Visit the Craftsmanweb page:www.sears.com/craftsman

• Safety Rules

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts

SAFETY RULES

_ CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE AND PLACE WIRE WHERE IT

CANNOT CONTACT SPARK PLUG TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING WHEN SET- TING UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING OR MAKING REPAIRS.

TRAINING

1. Carefully readthis Owner's Manual andanyother literature you may receive

before operatingthis equipment. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and

the proper useof the tiller and its.engine.

Knowhow to stop the unit anddisengage

the controls quickly.

2. Neverallowchildrento operatethe tiller. Neverallowadults to operatethe tiller without proper instruction.

3. Keepthe areaof operation clearof all persons, particularly children and pets.

Keepbystanders at least25 feetfrom areaof operation.

4. Keepin mind that the operator or user is responsiblefor accidents or hazards

occurring to other people,their property,

and themselves.

5. Familiarizeyourself withallof the safetyandoperatingdecals on this"

equipifiedt andon any of itsattachments or accessories.

6. Donot runenginein an enclosedarea. Engineexhaustcontainscarbon monox- ide gas, a deadlypoison that is odorless,

colorless, and tasteless. Do not operate this equipmentnear buildings, windows,

or airconditioners.

7. Do not allow handsor anyother part of the body or clothing nearthe rotating tines or nearany other moving part. The tines beginto rotate backward oncethe

engine starts, andeitherthe Forward Clutchor the

ReverseClutch

Leveris engaged (theWheelGear Levermustalways

be moved to EN- GAGEbeforethe

engine is started).

8. Beforeinspectingor servicing any partof the equipment, shut offthe

engine,wait for all moving parts to come

to a complete stop, disconnect the spark

plug wire from the sparkplug, and move

the wire awayfrom the spark plug.

g. Donot operate this equipment if you are under the influence of alcohol, medi-

cation,or whentired or ill.

PREPARATION

1. Thoroughly inspect the areawhere

the tiller is to beusedand remove all for-

eign objects.

2. Besure all control levers are released andthe Wheel GearLever isin ENGAGE

beforestarting the engine.

3. Donot operate the tiller without wear- ing adequateouter garments. Avoid

loose garmentsor jewelry that could get caught in moving parts of tiller or engine.

4. Donot operatethetiller when barefoot orwearingsandals,sneakers,or light footwear. Wearprotectivefootwearthat will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

5. Do nottill nearundergroundelectricca- bles,telephonelines,pipesor hoses. If in doubt, contactyour telephoneor utility company.

6. Warning:Handlefuel with care;it is highlyflammable and itsvaporsareexplo-

sive. Takethefollowing precautions:

a. Store fuel in containersspecifically

designedfor this purpose.

b. Thegas capshall neverbe re-

moved or fuel addedwhile the en- gine is running. Allow the engine

to coo[ for several minutes before

adding fuel.

c. Keepmatches,cigarettes,cigars,

pipes, open flames, and sparks awayfrom thefuel tank andfuel

container.

d. Fillfuel tank outdoors with extreme

care. Neverfill fuel tank indoors. Use afunnel or spout to prevent

spillage.

e. Replaceall fuel tank and container

capssecurely.

f. Iffuel is spilled, do not attempt to

start the engine,but move the

machineawayfrom the areaof

spillage andavoid creatingany source of ignition until fuel vapors havedissipated.

7. Nevermakeadjustmentswhenengine is running (unlessrecommendedby

manufacturer).

OPERATION

1. Donot put handsor feet nearor un- der rotating parts.

2. Exerciseextreme cautionwhen on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

Stay alert for hidden hazardsor traffic. Do not carry passengers.

3. After striking aforeign object, stopthe engine,disconnect the spark plug wire

and prevent it from touching the spark plug, carefully inspect thetiller for any damage,and repairthe damagebefore

restarting and operatLngthe tiller.

4. Exercisecaution to avoid slipping or falling.

5. If the unit shouldstartto vibrateabnor- mally,stop theengine. Disconnectthe

spark plug wireand preventit from touch-

ingthe sparkplug, andcheck immediately

for the cause.Vibration is generallya warning of trouble.

6. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it from touching

the spark plug wheneveryou leavethe

operating position, before unclogging the

tines, or when making any repairs, ad-

justments or inspections.

7. Takeall possibleprecautionswhen leavingthe machineunattended.Stopthe engine.Disconnect spark plug wire and

move it awayfrom the sparkplug. Move

WheelGearLeverto ENGAGE.

8. Beforecleaning,repairing, or inspect-

ing,stop the engine, and makecertain all

moving parts havestopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and preventit from touching the spark plug to preventacci-

dentalstarting.

9. Always keepthe tiller tine hood flap

down.

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

IT MEANS-ATTENTIONH[ BECOME ALERTIH YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

SAFETY RULES

10. Neveruse the tiller unlessproper guards,plates,or othersafetyprotective

devicesareinplace.

11. Do not run engine in an enclosed area.Engineexhaustcontains carbon monoxide gas,a deadly poison that is

odorless, colorless, and tasteless. 1;'. Keepchildrenand petsaway.

13. Neveroperatethe tiller under engine power if the WheelGearLeveris in DISENGAGE(FREEWHEEL).In this posi-

tion, the wheelswill not hold the tiller back and the revolving tines could propel the tiller rapidly backward,possibly caus-

ing loss of control. Always move the

WheelGearLeverto ENGAGEbefore

•starting the engine or engaging the tines/wheels with the Forward Clutch or

the ReverseClutch.

14. Beawarethattheti_lermayunex-

pectedlybounce upwardor jump back- ward if thetines should strike extremely hard packedsoil, frozenground, or buried obstacleslike largestones, roots, Qrstumps. If in doubt about the tilling conditions, always use the following op- erating precautionsto assist you in main-

taining control of the tiller:

a. Walk behind and to one side of the

.,, tilier,,using onehand on the han-

dlebars. Relaxyour arm, but use a

secure hand grip. b. Useslower engine speeds. c. Clearthe tilling area of all large

stones, roots and other debris. d. Avoid using downward pressure on

handlebars. If needbe, useslight

upward pressure to keepthe tines

..... from digging too deeply.

• e. In an emergency,stoptines and

wheels by releasingwhichever

ClutchLeveris engaged.Do not

attemptto restrainthe tiller.

15. Do not overloadthe tiller's capacity by attemptingto till too deeplyattoo fast

a rate.

16. Never operatethetillerat high trans-

portspeeds on hard or slippery surfaces, Lookbehindand usecarewhenbacking up.

17. Donot operatethe tilleron a slope thatistoo steepfor safety.Whenon slopes,slowdownand makesureyou

havegoodfooting. Neverpermitthetiller

to freewheeldownslopes.

18. Neverallowbystandersnearthe unit.

19. Only useattachmentsandacces- soriesthat are approvedby thetiller

manufacturer.

20. Usetiller attachmentsand acces- sories when recommended.

21. Neveroperatethe tiller without good

visibilityor light.

22. Neveroperatethetiller ifyou aretired,

or underthe influenceof alcohol,drugsor medication.

23. Operatorsshallnot tamperwiththe engine-governorsettingsonthemachine;

thegovernorcontrols the maximumsafe operatingspeedto protectthe engineand all moving partsfrom damagecausedby

overspeed.Authorizedserviceshall be sought ifa problemexists.

24. Do not touch enginepartswhich may behotfrom operation.Letpartscooldown

sufficiently.

25. Pleaseremember:Youcanalways stopthetines andwheelsbyreleasingthe ForwardClutchLeveror theReverseClutch

Lever(whicheverleveryou haveengaged)

or bymovingthe Throttle ControlLeverto STOP.

26. To loador unloadthe tiller, seethein- structionsinthisManual.

27. Useextremecautionwhenreversing or pullingthemachinetowardsyou.

28. Startthe enginecarefullyaccordingto instructionsandwith feetwellawayfrom thetines.

29. Neverpickupor carrya machinewhile

theengineisrunning.

MAINTENANCE/STORAGE

1. Keepthe tiller,attachments andacces- sories insafe workingcondition.

2. Checkall nuts, bolts, andscrews at

frequent intervalsfor propertightness to

besure the equipmentis in safeworking

condition.

3. Neverstorethetillerwith fuel inthe fuel tank insidea buildingwhereignition

sourcesarepresent(suchashot waterand spaceheaters,furnaces,clothesdryers,

stoves,electricmotors, etc.). Allowengine to coolbeforestoring in anyenclosure.

4. Toreducethechancesof afire hazard, keepthe enginefreeof grass,leaves,or

excessivegrease.

5. Storegasolineina cool,well-ventilat- edarea,safelyawayfrom anyspark-or

flame-producing equipment.Store gaso-

lineinanapprovedcontainer,safelyaway

from the reachofchildren.

6. Referto the ServiceandAdjustments

Section of this Manualif thetiller is to be stored for anextendedperiod.

7. Neverperform maintenancewhile the engine is runningor thespark plugwire is

connected,exceptwhen specificallyin- structed to do so.

8. If the fuel tank has to bedrained,do

this outdoors.

TOAVOIDINJURY:

• READOWNER'SMANUAL.

• KNOW LOCATION AND

FUNCTION OF ALL CON- TROLS.

• KEEPALL SAFETYDEVICES

AND SHIELDS IN PLACE ANDWORKING,

• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN

ORUNINSTRUCTEDADULTS TOOPERATETILLER.

• SHUT OFF ENGINE AND

DISCONNECTSPARKPLUG

WIRE BEFORE UNCLOG-

GING TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.

• KEEPBYSTANDERSAWAY

FROMMACHINE,

• KEEPAWAYFROM ROTAT-

INGPARTS.

• USE EXTREME CAUTION

WHEN REVERSING OR

PULLINGTHE MACHINETO-

WARDSYOU.

WARNING:

The engine exhaust from this

product contains chemica!s knownto the StateofCaliformai

to cause cancer, birth defects,i

orotherreproductiveharm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Craftsman 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 your nearest Sears Service Cen-

ter/Department. We have competent, well-trained tech-

nicians and the proper tools to service or repair this machine.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will help you assemble and maintain your machine properly.

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES."

MODEL NUMBER: 987.293330 SERIAL

NUMBER: DATE OF

PURCHASE: THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE

FOUND ON A DECAL LOCATED ON THE TRANS- MISSION OF YOUR MACHINE.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH THE SERIAL NUM- BER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A

SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

MAINTENANCEAGREEMENT

A Sears maintenance agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES

O Read and observe the safety rules. O Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for

and using this product.

[] Follow the instructions under "CUSTOMER

RESPONSIBILITIES" and "STORAGE" sections of

this manual.

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 8 HP DISPLACEMENT: 19.43 CU. iN.

FUEL CAPACITY: 2 Quarts

SPARK PLUG (GAP 0.030-in.): Champion RJ-17LM*

or equivalent

IGNITION: Electronic NET ENGINE WEIGHT: 50 LBS.

NET TILLER WEIGHT: 204 LBS.

• InCanada, replacespark plugwitha resistorplug.

WARNING

This machine is equipped with an internal combus- tion engine and shouldnot be used onor near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or

grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arresfer meeting

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

effective workingorder bythe 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. This

engine is not equippedwith a spark arrestor for the muffler. Asparkarrester for the muffler is

available through your nearest Sears authorized

service center. See the REPAIR PARTSsection of this manual.

LIMITEDTWO-YEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMAN®TILLER

Fortwo years from the dateof purchase,when this Craftsman®Tiller ismaintained,lubricated, and tuned up according to the

operating maintenanceinstructions in the owner's manual,Searswill repair,free of charge,anydefect in material or workmanship.

Ifthis Craftsman®Tilleris usedfor commercialor rental purposes, thiswarrantyappliesfor only90 daysfrom the dateof purchase.

THISWARRANTYDOESNOTCOVER:

• Expendableitems whichbecomewornduringnormaluse,suchastJQ.P,.(._,belts,soarkglue, andair cleaner.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseofoperatorabuseornegligenceincludingbentcrankshaftsandthefailureto maintain the

equipmentaccordingtotheinstructionscontainedintheowner'smanual.

WARRANTYSERVICEISAVAILABLEBYRETURNINGTHECRAFTSMAN@TILLERTOTHENEARESTSEARSSERVICECENTERIN THEUNITEDSTATES.THISWARRANTYAPPLIESONLYWHILETHISPRODUCTISIN USEINTHEUNITEDSTATES.

Thiswarrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,andyou mayalso haveotherrightswhichvaryfrom stateto state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ................................................... 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .............................. 4

WARRANTY .......................................................... 4

ACCESSORIES .................................................... 6

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACKAGE ............ 7

ASSEMBLY ........................................................... 8

OPEI_ATION ....................................................... 12

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 22

INDEX

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................ 26

STORAGE ........................................................... 32

TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................ 33

DECALS .............................................................. 34

REPAIR PARTS - TILLER .................................. 35

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE: .................... ............ 50

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ........... Back Cover

Accessories .................. 6

Air Cleaner Maintenance ....... 25

Assembly .................... 8

Break-In Operation ........... 16

Belt Tension Adjustment ....... 28

Belt Removal and Replacement , 30

Carburetor .................. 25

Changing Engine Oil .......... 24

Changing Transmission Oil ..... 24

Checking/Adding Engine Oil .... 24

Checking/Adding Transmission Oil 24 Checking/Adjusting Belt Tension. 28

Checking for Oil Leaks ......... 23

Check List, Pre-Starting ........ 15

Cleaning .................... 25

Cooling System Maintenance... 25

Controls .................... 12

Decals ..................... 34

Depth Regulator Lever ........ 14

Engine

Air Filter .................. 25

Carburetor ................ 25

Choke Lever ............... 15

Cooling System ............ 25

Fuel Tank ................. 16

Oil, Checking/Adding ........ 24

O_5_rat'ion.... _............ 16

Parts ..................... 50

Recoil Start Rope ........... 15

Spark Plug ................ 25

Speed .................... 15

Starting Engine ............. 16

Stopping Engine ............ 16

Storage ................... 32

Throttle Lever ........... 10,15

Features/Controls ............ 12

Forward Clutch ............. 9,13

Forward Travel ............... 17

Fuel Tank ................... 16

Guiding the Tiller ............. 17

Handlebar Height Adjustment . .8,14

Hardware .................... 7

Leaks, Oil ................... 23

Loading and Unloading Tiller .... 21

Location of Controls ........... 12

Lubrication .................. 23

Maintenance Schedule ........ 22

Maintenance Agreement ........ 4

Model/Serial Number ........... 4

Motor Oil, Adding .......... 15, 24

Motor Oil, Changing ........... 24

Oil ...................... 15

Off-Season Storage ........... 32

Operation ................... 17

Parts List ................... 35

Pre-Start Checklist ............ 15

Product Specifications .......... 4

Reverse Clutch .............. 13

Reverse Travel .............. 18

Recoil Starter Rope ........... 15

Repair Parts ................. 35

Safety Rules ................. 2

Safety Decals ............... 34

Seedbed Preparation .......... 19

Service Recommendation

Checklist ................. 22

Slopes ..................... 20

Spark Plug .................. 25

Starter Rope ................ 15

Storage .................... 32

Tiller Parts .................. 35

Tilling ...................... 17

Tilling Depths ................ 19

Tine Cleaning ................ 20

Tine Removal ................ 26

Transmission Gear Oil ......... 24

Troubleshooting .............. 33

Turning Around .............. 18

Unpacking ................... 8

Untangling Tines ............. 20

Warranty .................... 4

Wheel Gear Lever ............ 12

Wheel Gear Cable Adjustment . .26

RIGHT

SIDE

OPERATOR'S

POSITION

LEFT

FORWARD SIDE

OPERATOR'S POSITION

All references to LEFT and

RIGHT sides of the tiller are given from the operator's posi-

tion behind the handlebars (un-

less specified otherwise).

ACCESSORIES

These accessories were available when the tiller was purchased. They are available at most Sears retail

outlets, catalog and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you when you provide the model number of your tiller.

ACCESSORIES

"'Figure 1-1

Spark Plug GasCan

Motor Oil

COMPONENTS REQUIRING ASSEMBLY

REVERSE

CLUTCHROD

ENGINE

LEVER

FORWARD

CLUTCHROD

HANDLEBARS

WHEEL

Figure1-2

©© ©©

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Hardware packed in carton

Figure1.3

Ref. No,

2 3

5 6

11 12 13

Hardware Description Qty.

Height Adjustment Handle (for handlebar) ........... 1

Keyed Washer (for height adjustment handle) ..... 1

Plastic Tie Strap ................................................... 4

Hairpin Cotter ....................................................... 3

3/8"-16 1"Hex Hd. Screw .................................... 2

3/8" Flat Washer .................................................. 2

3/8"-16 Nylok Lock Nuts ...................................... 2

Throttle Lever Knob ............................................. 1

#10-32 x 1/2" Round Hd. Screw .......................... 4

#10 Lockwasher ................................................... 4

#10-32 Nut ........................................................... 4

Wheel Gear Lever Knob ...................................... 1

5/16" Flat Washer .................................................. 1

T00LS/MATERIALS

NEEDEDFOR ASSEMBLY

(1) * 3/8" open end wrench (2) * 9/16" open end wrenches

(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties) (1) Ruler

(1) Small Board (to tap plastic

knobs on control levers)

(1) Automotive-type air pressure

gauge

(1) Clean Oil Funnel

(1) Clean high-quality engine oil.

Refer to the assembly instruc-

tions in this manual for engine

oil specifications and quantity required. Do not overfill.

•Adjustable wrenchesmay be used.

IMPORTANT: Motor oil must be

added to the engine crankcase be- fore the engine is started. Follow the

instructionsin the "Operation" section.

11,

ASSEMBLY

Read these instructions completely

before you attempt to assemble or operate your new equipment. Your

tiller has been assembled at the fac- tory with the exception of those parts

left'unassembled for shipping pur- poses. Steps in this section show you how to assemble them. To en- sure safe and proper operation of your machine, all parts and hard- ware you install or adjust must be

tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper

tightness.

UNPACKINGINSTRUCTIONS

• Inspect your machine immediately.

Be sure neither the carton nor con- tents have been damaged. If you

'.find or have reason to suspect

damage, contact the nearest

Sears Service Center for

assistance.

• Once the cardboard shipping car- ton is open, remove any packing

material from around the machine. Remove any staples securing bot-

tom of carton to wood pallet. Lift

.,off carton. Before disposing of the

carton or any of the packing mate- rials, be sure to check them thor-

oughly for any small parts.

Leave unit on base of pallet dur- ing assembly steps (to safely re- move unit from pallet, wait until

you have installed the handlebar assembly and the Wheel Gear Lever is placed in DISENGAGE). The procedure for removing the tiller isexplained in Step 1, item 6 of these assembly steps.

• Also remove any packaging around the handlebar.

• Perform the assembly on a clean, level surface. If you need to move

the machine, be careful not to severely bend any of the control

cables on the equipment.

• Remove the handlebar assembly from the carton. Do not remove

the two control levers from the

' handlebars.

• A plastic bag inside the literature

envelope contains loose hardware. Open the bag and check the con-

tents against the hardware list on Page 7 and the hardware shown in

Figure 1-3.

ASSEMBLYSTEPS

STEP 1: Attach the Handlebars

1. Remove the Reverse Clutch Lever (B, Figure 2-1) from the han-

dlebars (A). Remove any rubber bands from the handlebars.

2. Position the handlebar cross- brace (C, Figure 2-2) in front of the

curved height adjustment bracket (D) and place the handlebar ends to the outside of the two mounting tabs on top of the transmission.

3, Attach the handlebars to the

mounting tabs with two 3/8-16 x 1" screws (heads of screws go to inside

of tabs), 3/8" flat washers and 3/8"- 16 Nylok lock nuts (see Figure 2-2). Do not fully tighten the screws at this

time.

4. Move the handlebar to align the hole in the cross-brace with one of

the four slots in the curved height adjustment bracket. Place the keyed

washer (E, Figure 2-3) on the height adjustment handle (F) with the raised keys (edges) on the keyed washer facing down.

5. Screw the height adjustment han- dle (F) into the threaded hole in the handlebar cross-brace, making sure that the raised keys on the washer fit

into the selected slot on the curved bracket. Tighten the height adjust-

ment handle securely. Next, secure-

ly tighten the two screws that attach the handlebar ends to the mounting tabs (Figure 2-2).

6. To remove the tiller from its ship-

ping platform, free the wheels by

moving the Wheel Gear Lever (G,

Figure 2-4) to the DISENGAGE posi-

tion (this allows the wheels to ro-

tate). Carefully unwrap the wheel

gear cable from around the unit be-

fore moving the lever. Use this DIS-

ENGAGE mode only when the en- gine is not running. Before starting the engine, the Wheel Gear Lever must be placed in the ENGAGE po-

sition (see the "Operation" section for details).

Figure2.1: RemoveReverseClutchLever.

Figure2-2: Attachhandlebars.,

E F

Figure2-3:Installheightadjustmenthandle.

Figure2-4:PutWheelGearLeverIn DISENGAGEposition.

ASSEMBLY

STEP2: Attach ReverseClutch

Lever

1. Slide the Reverse Clutch Lever

(removed in Step 1) down through the hole in the left side of the handle-

bar control panel and pass it above the cross-brace at the lower end of

the handlebar.

2. Insert the end of the lever (I, Fig- ure 2-5) through the hole in the pivot (J). Note that there are two small

holes in the lower end of the lever.

3. Install a 5/16" flat washer (K) and

secure it with a hairpin cotter (L)

throughthe bottom hole in the lever.

Figure2-5:InstaNReverseClutchLever.

IMPORTANT: If the handlebar is ad-

justed to the highest position, then

the bottq_mof the Reverse Clutch Lever must be secured with the hair-

pin cotter (L) through the top hole in the lever. Simply remove the hairpin cotter, slide the washer (K) up the

lever, and replace the hairpin cotter.

STEP3: Attach ForwardClutchRod

1. The upper end of the Forward Clutch rod is attached to the bottom

of the handlebar control panel. Turn the rod (M, Figure 2-6) so the small bend at its lower end points inward.

2. Insert a hairpin cotter down through the hole located closest to

the bend (see Figure 2-6).

3. There are four numbered holes in the i_ldtchswivel plate (see Figure 2-

7) and four numbered slots in the curved height adjustment bracket.

For correct operation of the Forward Clutch rod, the numbered hole used

for the Forward Clutch rod must

match with the numbered slot in the

height adjustment bracket. For ex- ample, if the handlebar is set in slot #1, then the Forward Clutch rod

must be installed in hole #1 of the

clutch swivel plate.

IMPORTANT: Whenever the handle-

bar heightischanged, the hole posi-

tion of the Forward Clutch rod must

be changed accordingly. Changing

the handlebar height changes the

tension on the Forward Clutch rod -

this tension must be adjusted by

relocating the rod in the appropriate hole in the clutch swivel plate.

4. Select the proper hole in the

clutch swivel plate and insert the Forward Clutch rod so that the tip

faces inward (see Figure 2-7). Se- cure the rod by inserting a second hairpin cotter through the hole near

the tip of the rod.

5. Check for correct tension on the Forward Clutch rod as follows:

(a) There are two interconnected

Forward Clutch paddles that hang beneath the control panel. Lift and hold the right-side paddle against the handlebar grip.

(b) While squeezing the paddle,

measure the gap between the E- ring and the lower end of the

clutch rod bracket (see Figure 2-

8). The gap should be 3/16"-to- 5/16". NOTE: A stack of 5 pen- nies is approximately 5/16" thick.

(1) First check that the Forward

Clutch rod is in the correct hole in the clutch swivel plate.

If not, reposition the rod and repeat Step 5b.

(2) If the Forward Clutch rod is in

the correct hole and the gap is

incorrect, you will need to ad-

just the length of the Forward

Clutch rod. To do this, first re- lease the Forward Clutch pad-

dle and then disconnect the rod from the clutch swivel

plate (remove hairpin cotter at end of rod and pull rod out of

hole in clutch swivel plate).

If the gap is more than 5/16",

rotate the rod counterclock-

wise (as viewed from the front

of tiller) to decrease the gap. Reinstall the rod in the correct

clutch swivel plate hole, se-

cure it with the hairpin cotter, and repeat Steps 5a and 5b.

If the gap is less than 3/16",

rotate the rod clockwise (as

viewed from the front of tiller)

to increase the gap. Reinstall the rod in the correct clutch

swivel plate hole, secure it with the hairpin cotter, and re-

peat Steps 5a and 5b.

Figure2-6: Install ForwardClutchrod.

Figure2-7:Numberedsettingsforhandle- barheightslotsandclutchswivelplate

holes.

Gapshouldbej

3/16"-to-5/'16"

Figure2-8. WhilesqueezingForward

Clutchpaddle,measuregapbetweenend

ofbracketandE.ring.

STEP4: CheckGearOilLevelin TranS'm[ssion

The transmission was filled with gear oil at the factory. However, be sure

to check the oil level at this time.

1. Move the tiller to a level area.

2. Pull the Depth Regulator Lever (N, Figure 2-9) straight back and

then slide it to the second notch from the top. If the lever does not move

freely, lift the tine hood flap and look for a plastic tie securing the lever in place. Cut and remove the tie.

3. Remove the oil level check plug (O, Figure 2-10) on the left-side of the transmission. (Due to dried paint

on the plug threads, it may require some force to remove the plug the

first time.) The gear oil level is cor- rect if oil starts to flow out of the hole

as the plug is removed. If so, se- curely reinstall the plug.

4. If oil does not flow from the check hole, add SAE 140, SAE 85W-140 or

SAE 80W-90 weight gear oil (prefer- ably use API rated GL-4 gear oil,

however GL-5 can be used for small top-offs) as follows:

NOTE: Do not use automatic trans- mission fluid or engine oil in the

transmission.

(a) Clean area around oil fill hole (P,

,,.Figure,2-11) and unscrew oil fill

plug.

(b) Using a clean funnel, slowly add

gear oil until itflows from the oil level check hole (O, Figure 2-10).

Securely reinstall the oil level check plug (O).

plug.

Figure2.9: PutleverInsecondnotch.

ASSEMBLY

Figure2.10: Gearoillevelcheckplug.

Figure2-11: Addinggearoilin o/Ifill hole.

STEP5: AttachThrottle Lever

For shipping purposes, the engine throttle cable assembly is wrapped around the engine. Carefully unwrap

the cable and attach it as follows:

1. Route the throttle cable up the

right-side handlebar. Insert its lever

(R, Figure 2-12) up through the slot

in the control panel labeled "ENGINE THROTTLE."

2. Insert two #10-32 x 1/2" round

head screws down through the "+"

marks on the control panel decal and

through the holes in the base of the

engine throttle lever.

3. Hold the engine throttle lever

base against the bottom of the con-

trol panel and secure it with two #10

Iockwashers and #10-32 nuts.

4. Place the "T" shaped engine

throttle lever knob on the end of the

lever. Use a board to tap knob until it

seats firmly on lever (Figure 2-12).

5. Move the lever forward and back-

ward - it should move freely through

the full range of travel. (Note that

there is a detent at the SLOW setting

Figure2.12:Attachenginethrottlelever.

which catches the lever. This detent prevents the lever from unintention-

ally moving to the STOP setting when you are just trying to slow the

engine down.) If the lever is difficult to move away from the STOP set-

ting, loosen both screws and move the lever assembly slightly to the left.

Retighten screws and recheck move- ment. Adjust the lever as needed.

6. Secure the throttle cable to the

right-side handlebar with two plastic ties (S, Figure 2-13) located about two feet apart. The serrated side of

the tie must be on the inside of the

loop. Trim tie length with scissors.

STEP6: AttachWheelGearLever

For shipping purposes, the wheel

gear cable is wrapped around the

transmission. Carefully unwrap the

cable and attach it as follows:

1. Route the wheel gear cable up

the left-side handlebar and insert the

lever (T, Figure 2-14) up through the

slot in the control panel that is la-

beled "WHEEL GEAR."

2. Insert two #10-32 x 1/2" round

head screws down through the "+"

marks on the control panel decal and

through the holes in the base of the

wheel gear lever. '....

3. Hold the wheel gear lever base

against the bottom of the control

panel and secure it with two #10

Iockwashers and #10-32 nuts.

4. Place the wheel gear lever knob

on the end of the lever and use a

board to tap the knob down until it

seats firmly on the lever (see Figure

2-14).

5. Secure the cable to the left-side handlebar with two plastic ties (U,

Figure 2-13) located about two feet

apart. Snip off any excess tie length with scissors.

,, ASSEMBLY

STEP7: CheckAir Pressurein Tires

.Figure2.13. Attachthrottle cable withplas-

tic ties (S). Attach wheel gear cable with

plastic ties (U).

Use an automotive-type tire pressure

gauge to check the air pressure in both tires. Deflate or inflate both

tires evenly from 15-to-20 PSI

(pounds per square inch). Be sure

that both tires have the same air pressure or the unit witl pull to one

side.

STEP8 : CheckHardwarefor Tightness

Inspect the hardware on the unit and tighten any loose screws, bolts and

nuts.

IMPORTANT" Motor oil must be added to the engine crankcase

before the engine is started. Follow the instructions in the

"Operation" section.

Figure2-14: Attachwheelgearlever.

CAUTION

Unit is shipped without oil in engine crankcase. DO NOT

start engine until oll has been added. Severe enginedamage

will result if this instruction is net followed. See "Operation"

Section in this manual for oil filling procedure.

OPERATION

KNOWYOURTILLER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING THIS EQUIPMENT. Know the lo-

cation and function of all features and controls on the equipment. Save this manual for future reference.

ReverseClutch

MEETS ANSI B71.8 - 1996

SAFETY STANDARD

This machine meets voluntary safety standard B71.8 - 1996, which is

sponsored by the Outdoor Power

Equipment Institute, Inc., and is pub-

lished by the American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Operating Symbols Varioussymbols are used on the tiller

toindicatecontrolsettings(your model may not have all of the symbols).

These symbols are shown belowwith a descriptionoftheirmeaning.

HandlebarHeight

Adjustment

ChokeControl

Recoil

Wheel G'ear

_Lever

ForwardClutch

(on eachside)

FAST SLOW CHOKE

ENGINE ENGINE ENGINE

STOP START RUN

z2.r

ENGAGE DISENGAGE

ROTATING TILLER

TINES DIRECTION

ip,

o--->

LEVER

STOP DIRECTION

..... N R

NEUTRAL REVERSE

LOCATIONANDUSEOFTILLERCONTROLS WheelGearLever

This lever (A, Figure 3-1) has two

operating positions: ENGAGE and DISENGAGE.

In the ENGAGE position, the wheels

will start turning when either the

Forward Clutch or the Reverse Clutch is engaged (the tines will also

start turning when either clutch is engaged).

The DISENGAGE position places the wheels in the freewheeling mode

to allow the unit to be moved without the engine running. Use the DISEN-

GAGE position only when the engine is not running. See "DANGER"

statement that follows. To shift to ENGAGE, gently (do not

force) move the lever forward while also rolling the tiller a few inches for- ward or backward. (Moving the tiller

helps to align the shift mechanism

with the transmission wheel drive gears.) The wheels will not free-

wheel when the lever is properly set

in the ENGAGE position.

To shift to DISENGAGE (freewheel)

simply move the lever, rearward, without rolling the tiller. The wheels will roll freely when the lever is prop-

erly set in the DISENGAGE position.

Figure3-1:WheelGearLever.

DANGER

Never place the Wheel Gear Lever in DISENGAGE (Free-

wheel) when the engine is run- ning.

Having the Wheel Gear Lever in DISENGAGE and then en-

gaging the tines/wheels with

either the Forward Clutch or the Reverse Clutchcould allow the tines to propel the tiller

rapidly backward.

Failure to follow this instruc- tion could result in personal

injury or property damage:

' ' OPERATION

ForwardClutch

The two interconnected levers (B,

Figure 3-2) control the engagement of forward drive to the wheels and

power to the tines.

To Operatethe ForwardClutch:

1, Before engaging the Forward

Clutch, put the Wheel Gear Lever in the ENGAGE position (sea "WARN- ING" below).

2_, Lift and hold one or both of the

levers against the handlebar grips to engage the wheels and tines.

3. Release BOTH levers to disen- gage the wheels and tines. All for-

ward motion will stop (the engine will

continue to run).

WARNING

Never engage the wheels and

tines with the Forward Clutch or the Reverse Clutch unless

the Wheel Gear Lever is in ENGAGE.

Engaging the Forward Clutch or the ReverseClutchwhen the

wheels are not engaged could allow the tines to rapidly pro-

pe] the tiller forward or

backward.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury or propertydamage.

IMPORTANT: The Forward Clutch

Levers are connected to a mechani- cal interlock feature that automatical-

ly shifts the separate Wheel Gear Lever (A, Figure 3-1) into ENGAGE

position when either of the Forward Clutch Levers is lifted up against the

handlebars to engage power to the wheels and tines. This is a safety feature designed to prevent the wheels from being in DISENGAGE (freewheel) position when the tines are rotating.

Before starting the engine, test

the function of the mechanical inter- lock as follows:

Put the Wheel Gear Lever in

the DISENGAGE position and

roll the tiller back and forth a

few inches. The wheels should roll freely.

At rest, squeeze either of the

Forward Clutch Levers ("pad-

dles") against the handlebar grips. As the "paddles" move upward, the mechanical inter- lock will automatically move

the Wheel Gear Lever forward into the ENGAGE position.

(Roll the tiller back and forth a few inches.) If it does, the tiller wheels will not roll freely when you push and pull on the han-

dlebars.

. The mechanical interlock is

working properly if it performed

as described in step 2. If the mechanical interlock did not

perform correctly, do not oper- ate the tiller until it has been

inspected and corrected by your Sears Service Center.

ReverseClutch

This lever (C, Figure 3-3) controls the engagement of reverse drive to the wheels and tines. It is the only control that provides reverse direc-

tion of the wheels and tines.

ToOperatethe ReverseClutch:

1. Before engaging the Reverse Clutch, put the Wheel Gear Lever in

ENGAGE (see "WARNING" state- ment on this page).

2. Release the Forward Clutch levers.

3. To move the tiller in reverse, first stop all forward motion. Then lift up

the handlebars until the tines clear the ground and pull the Reverse

Clutch lever out. The tines and wheels will rotate in a reverse direc-

tion as long as the lever is held in REVERSE. To stop the wheel'S;_.nd'

tines, release the lever and it will re- turn to NEUTRAL. Never attempt to

till while going in the reverse direction.

WARNING

• Use extreme cautionwhen

reversing or pulling the ma- chine toward you. Lookbe-

hind to avoid obstacles,

• Never attempt to till in reverse.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury

or property damage.

Figure3-2".ForwardClutchlevers.

Figure3-3".ReverseClutchlever.

DepthRegulator

This lever (D, Figure 3-4) controls

the tilling depth of the tines. Pull the lever straight back and slide it up or down to engage the notched height

settings. The highest notch (lever all the way

down) raises the tines approximately

1-1/2 inches off the ground. This

"travel" position allows the tiller to be

moved withoutthe tines digging into

the ground.

Moving the lever up increases the

tilling depth. The lowest notch al-

lows a tilling depth of approximately sixto eight inches, depending on soil

conditions.

F_)rbest results, always begin tilling at a shallow depth setting, then in- crease the tilling depth. Further in- formation on using the Depth Regu-

OPERATION

Figure3.4: DepthRegulatorLever.

later isfound in the "Operation" Sec- tion of this manual.

WARNING

Always place the Depth Regu- lator Lever in the "travel"

position before startingthe en- gine. This position prevents

the tines from touching the

ground until you are ready to begin tilling.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury

or property damage.

HandlebarHeightAdjustment

The handlebar height is adjustable to four different settings. Set the han- dlebar height to a comfortable set- ting, but keep in mind that the han-

dlebar will be lower when the tines are engaged in the soil.

WARNING

Whenever the handlebar height is changed,the Forward

Clutch shift mechanism must be readjusted.

When adjusting or checking the Forward Clutch mecha-

nism, shut engine off, discon- nect spark plug wire and pre-

vent it from touching the spark

plug. Failure to follow this warning

could allow the Forward Clutch

mechanism to operate improp-

erly which could result in per- sonal injury or property damage.

IMPORTANT: If the handlebar is ad-

justed to the highest position, then

the bottom of the Reverse Clutch Lever must be secured with the hair-

pin cotter (and washer) through the top hole in the lever (see K and L) in

Figure 2-5, Page 9.

ToAdjustthe HandlebarHeight:

1. Stop the engine, wait for all parts

to stop moving and then disconnect the spark plug wire.

2. Loosen the two screws at the lower ends of the handlebar.

3. Loosen the height adjustment handle (E, Figure 3-5) and pull the keyed washer (F) free of the slots in the curved height adjustment bracket.

4. Move the handlebars to the new slot setting and insert the raised

keys on the keyed washer into the slot. nghten the height adjustment

handle securely.

5. Retighten the two screws at the ends of the handlebar.

6. Adjust the tension on the Forward Clutch rod shift mechanism, as follows:

(a) Remove the inner hair pin cotter

from the end of the Forward Clutch rod.

(b) There are four numbered holes in

the clutch swivel plate (see Fig-

ure 3-6) and four numbered slots in the curved height adjustment

bracket. For correct operation of

the Forward Clutch mechanism, the numbered hole used for the

Forward Clutch rod must match

the numbered slot in the height

adjustment bracket. Example: If handlebar is in slot #4, put For- ward Clutch rod in hole #4 of

clutch swivel plate.

Figure3.5: HeightAdjustinghandle(E).

Figure3.6: Handlebarheight slatsand clutchswivulplate holes.

clutch swivel plate and insert the

Forward Clutch rod (tip faces in-

ward). Secure the rod with the hairpin cotter.

(d) Check for correct tension on the

Forward Clutch rodas described in Step 5 of "Step 3: Attach For-

ward Clutch Rod" on page 9.

,., 14

OPERATION

ENGINECONTROLS

IMPORTANT: The engine is equipped with a recoil starter, a han- dlebar-mounted engine throttle lever,

and a choke control The locations and functions of each of these con-

trols are described below.

RecoilStarter

The recoil starter (G, Figure 3-7) is used to "pull-start" the engine.

Before pulling the recoil starter han-

dle, make sure there are no obsta- cles behind you. See "Engine Start-

ing and Stopping" in this section for

detailed engine starting instructions.

EngineChoke Lever

The choke lever (H, Figure 3-7) al- lows a richer air/gas mixture to make starting a cold engine easier. There

BEFORESTARTINGENGINE

AddMot_)r011to Engine

The tiller is shipped without oil in the engine. Permanent engine damage

will result if the engine is run without oil.

1. Only use high quality detergent oil

with API service classification SF,

SG, SH, or SH/CD. Above 32OF,use SAE 30; below 320F, use 5W30. Do

nat.use SAE 10W40 oil

) ,

[ colder.._----._- 32OF-.-----.._ warmer]

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.) improve start- ing in cold weather, these oils will re-

sult inincreased oil consumption when used above 32OF. Check

engine oil more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from run-

ning low on oil.

5W30 I SAE30 ) ]/

are three settings: FULL CHOKE, PARTIAL CHOKE

and NO CHOKE. Detailed in- structions for using the choke

lever are provided later in this section.

EngineThrottle Lever

The throttle lever (I, Inset to Figure 3-7) is used to adjust

engine speed as well as stop the engine.

Use the START position when starting the engine. Use the

SLOW position when idling the engine. Pull the lever all the way back to the STOP po- sition to turn the engine off.

Figure3-7:Enginecontrols--RecoilStarter(G);

ThrottleLever(H); ChokeLever(I).

Figure3-8:Addmotoroiltotheengineus. ingtheoilfill tube(J).

2. With the tiller on level ground, pull the Depth Regulator Lever (Figure

3-4) back and then all the way up until the lowest notch in the lever is

engaged.

3. Unscrew the engine oil dipstick (J, Figure 3-8) from the oil fill tube. Using a clean funnel, slowly add oil

into the oil fill tube until the oil level reaches the FULL mark reading on

the oil dipstick. While adding oil, check the level several times with

the dipstick so as to avoid overfilling the engine with oil. ALWAYS MAIN- TAIN THE OIL LEVEL AT THE FULL

MARK.

4. Securely replace the oil dipstick. IMPORTANT: Experience indicates

that alcohol-blended fuels (gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can at-

tract moisture which leads to separa- tion and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can dama_j_ the '

fuel system of an engine while in stor- age. To avoid problems, the fuel sys-

tem should be emptied before stor- age for 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 sea- son. See STORAGE instructions for

additional information. Never use en- gine or carburetor cleaner products in

the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

Pre-StartChecklist

Move the tiller to a level area,

then make the following checks and

perform the following services before starting the engine.

1. Disconnect Spark Plug Wire.

2. Add motor oil to engine. (Refer to instructionson this page.)

3. Check the Air Cleaner. It must be securely assembled and clean.

4. Check Safety Guards. All guards and covers must be fastened securely.

5. Check Engine Cooling System.

The cooling fins and air intake screen must be clear of debris.

6. Adjust Handlebar Height.

7, Put Gasoline in the Fuel Tank..

(Refer to instructionson next page.)

Use fresh, clean, unleaded regular

fuel. Fuel goes stale if stored for

more than six months. Do Not Mix

Oil With Gasoline!

8. Put Depth Regulator Lever in the "travel" position.

9. Reconnect Spark Plug Wire.

Fill Fuel Tank

The engine must be off and cool be- fore removing fuel fill cap (Figure 3-9).

Clean area around fuel fill cap and then remove fill cap. Be sure to use clean, fresh unleaded regular gaso-

line. Do not mix oil with gasoline. NOTE: Do not use gasoline contain-

ing methanol (wood alcohol). Never use stale gasoline left over from last season or unused for long periods.

Using a funnel or spout, fill tank to within 1/2" below the bottom of the

fuel tank filler neck to prevent spills and to allow for fuel expansion. In- stall the fill cap securely and wipe up any spilled gasoline.

Figure3-9: Fill thefuel lank(K).

DANGER

Gasoline is highly flammable and its vaporsexplosive. Fol-

low these safety practices to prevent injury from fire or ex- plosion:

• Never fill tank if engine is

runningor hot from use. Let engine and mufflercooldown

beforerefueling.

• Do not permit open flames,

.sparks,matchesorsmokingin

fuelingarea.

• Fill fuel tank outdoors in a

well-ventilated area. Wipe

up any fuel spills and move tiller awayfromfumes before

startingthe engine.

• Use only an approved fuel

container and lock it safely away fromchildren.

• Store fuel and the tiller in a

well-ventilated area. Do not store fuel or tiller where fuel

vapors may reach an open flame or spark, or an ignition

source (a hot water heater, furnace, clothes dryer, elec-

tric motor,orthe like).

• Let enginecoolbeforestoring.

OPERATION

ThrottleLever

HandlebarHeight

Adjustment

Choke Control

Recoil

Starter

Figure3-I0

WARNING

Before operating your ma- chine, carefully read and un- derstand all Safety and Oper-

ation instructions in this Man- ual and on the decals on the

machine. Failure to .follow these in-

structions can result in seri- ous personal injury.

STOPPINGAND STARTINGTHEENGINE

Break-InOperation

Perform the following maintenance during the first hours of new opera- tion (see "Customer Responsibilities" section of this manual).

1. Change engine oil after first 2 hours of new engine operation.

2. Check for loose or missing hard- ware on unit. Tighten or replace as

needed.

StoppingtheEngine

The following steps describe how to

stop the engine.

1. To stop the wheels and tines, re- lease the Forward Clutch levers or

the Reverse Clutch lever (whichever control is in use).

ReverseClutch

2. To stop the engine, move the En-

gine Throttle Lever to the STOP position.

WheelGear

J Lever

ForwardClutch

(oneachside)

Depth

Regulator

Startingthe Engine

The following steps describe how to start the engine. Do not attempt to

engage the tines or wheels until you have read all of the operating

instructions in this Section. Also review the safety rules in the Safe-

ty Section.

1. Complete the '?re-Start Check- list".

2. Put the Wheel Gear Lever (Figure 3-10) in the ENGAGE position.

3. Put the Depth Regulator Lever (see Figure 3-10) in the "travel" posi-

tion (lever all the way down) so that the tines are clear of the ground.

4. Release all controls on the tiller.

5. If engine is equipped with a fuel shutoff valve, turn valve to the open

position.

6. Put the Engine Throttle Lever

(Figure 3-10) in the START setting.

7. Choke the engine (see Figure 3-

10) as follows: Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position (move in di-

rection of arrowhead located on lever).

NOTE: If restarting a warm engine after a short shutdown, move choke

lever to NO CHOKE position instead.

OPERATION

CAUTION

To help prevent serious

personal injury or damage to equipment:

• Before starting engine, put Wheel GearLever in ENGAGE

position.

• Before starting engine, put

ForwardClutchLeversand Re- verse ClutchLever in neutral

(disengaged)positionsby re- leasinglevers.

• Nevermn engineindoorsor in

enclosed,poorlyventilatedar-

eas. Engineexhaustcontains carbon monoxide, an odor-

less,colorlessanddeadlygas.

• Avoid engine muffler and nearbyareas. Temperatures in these areas may exceed 150o1.

DANGER

GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND ITS VA-

PORSAREEXPLOSIVE. Followgasolinesafetyrules in

this manual (see Safety Sec-

tion). Failure to follow gasoline

safety instructions can result in serious personal injury

and propertydamage.

8. Pull recoil starter rope, as follows:

(a) Check behind you before

pulling the recoil starter handle. Avoid contacting any obstacles

when pulling the handle. Place one hand on the fuel tank to

....'stabilize the)unit when you pull

the starter handle.

(b) Pull recoil handle until you feel

resistance. Let rope rewind ful- ly. Then pull rope out rapidly.

Maintain control of rope so it slowly returns into starter

mechanism. This action may need to be repeated several

times until the engine starts.

move choke lever (on engines

so equipped) to 1/2 CHOKE un- til engine runs smoothly and

then to NO CHOKE position. If

engine falters, move choke lever to 1/2 CHOKE until en-

gine runs smoothly and then to NO CHOKE position.

NOTE: If engine fails to start after 3 pulls, move choke lever to NO

CHOKE position and pull starter rope again.

NOTE: If engine fires, but does not continue to run, move choke lever to

FULL CHOKE and repeat instruc-

tions "a", "b", and "c" untilengine

starts.

OPERATINGTHETILLER

The following pages provide guide-

lines to using your tiller effectively and safely in various gardening ap- plications. Be sure to read "Tilling Tips & Techniques" in this Section before you actually put the tines into

the soil.

WARNING

Keep awayIrom rotating tines. Rotating tines will cause seri-

ous personal injury.

1. Follow the "Pre-Start Checklist"

on Page 15. Be sure the Wheel Gear Lever is in the ENGAGE

position.

2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the '_traver' posi-

tion (lever all the way

down) so that the tines are clear of the ground. Use

this position when practic-

ing with your tiller or when moving to or from the gar- den. When you are ready

to begin tilling, you must

move the Depth Regulator Lever to the desired depth

setting (see "Tilling Tips & Techniques").

3. Start the engine and allow it to warm up. When warm, put throttle

control in fast speed setting.

4. For forward motion of the wheels and tines:

(a) Pull the Forward Clutch lever

"paddles" up and hold them against the handlebars. To stop forward motion of the

wheels and tines, release the "paddles."

(b) As the tilter moves forward, re-

lax and let the wheels pull the unit along while the tines dig. Walk behind and a little to one

side of the tiller. Use a light but secure grip with one hand on

the handlebars, but keep your arm loose. See Figure 3-11.

Let the tiller move ahead at its

own pace and do not push

down on the handlebars to try and force the tiller to dig deeper

- this takes weight off the wheels, reduces traction, and causes the tines to try and pro- pel the tiller.

Figure3-11:Useonehandtoguidetillerwhen moving

+ 39 hidden pages