Page 1
Owner's Manual
(RRFTIMRN
5.5 HP
24 INCH TINE WIDTH
FRONT TIN TILLER
Model No.
917.292390
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Espa_ol
• Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co. Hoffma_ Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website:www.seam, com_craftsman
Page 2
Warranty ................ .. ............ ,_. .............. 2
Safety Rules ............................. :.............. 2
Product Specifications ........... .i.. .......... 4
Assembly...., ................... ;.;...... :_.............. 6
Operation .................. ,....; ....... ......... 3 & 7
Maintenance ........................... _ ............ 11
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TILLER
For one (1) year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Tiller is maintained, lubri-
cated, 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 Tiller to the nearest Sears ser-
vice center/department in the United States. This warranty applies only while this prod-
uct is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
Service and Adjustments ...................... 13
Storage .......................................... 3 & 16
Troubleshooting .................................... 17
Illustrated Parts List .............................. 37
Parts Ordering ....................... Back Cover
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 oper-
ate 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 start ng 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
(except where specifically recommend-
ed by manufacturer).
2
Page 3
OPERATION
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating pads.
• 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 cautionto avoid slipping or
falling.
• if the unit should start to vibrate abnor-
mally, stop the engine (motor) and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving
the operating position.
• Take all possible precautions when 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 ovedoad the machine capacity
by attempting to till too deep at too fast a
rate.
• Never operate the machine at high
speeds on slippery surfaces. Look
behind and use care when backing.
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.
• Use only attachments and accessories
approved by the manufacturer of the
tiller.
• Never operate the tiller without good 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
accessodes 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 peri-
od.
A,.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: The engine exhuast from this
product contains chemicals known to the
State of Califomia to cause cancer, birth
defectd, or other reproductive harm.
' 3
Page 4
_)RODUCT SPECIRCATIONS
"IORSEPOWER: 5.5 HP
)ISPLACEMENT: 13 CU. IN.
(221CC)
;ASOLINE CAPACITY: 4 Quarts
Unleaded Regular
)IL (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30
(Above 32°F)
CAPACITY: 20 oz.) SAE 5W-30
(Below 32°F)
_PARK PLUG : Champion RJ 19LM
'GAP: .030") or J19LM
Congratulations on your purchase of a
Sears Tiller. It has been designed, engi-
neered and manufactured to give you the
best possible dependability and perform-
ance.
Should you experience any problems you
cannot easily remedy, pleas e contact your
nearest authorized Sears Service
Center/Department. We have competent,
well-trained technicians and the proper
tools to service or repair this unit.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintainyour 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 sate 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.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail-
able on this product. Contact your nearest
Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-
ing, caring for and using your tiller.
• Follow the instructions under the
"Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of
this Owner's Manual.
WARNING: This unit is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and should not
i
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 main-
tained 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. See your
Sears Authorized Service Center for spark
arrester. Refer to the Repair Parts section
of this manual for part number.
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
s °lu 4°scE-°ls zI
TILLER MAINTENANCE
BELT TINES SHEAR PIN
HAIRPIN CLIP
Page 5
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
tillre all parts and hardware you assemble
must be tightened securely. Use the correct
tools as necessary to insure proper tight-
heSS.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) Utility knife
(1) Pair of pliers
(2) 1/2" wrenches
OPERATOR'S POSITION
When right or left hand is mentioned in
this manual, it means when you are in
the operating position (standing behind
tiller handles).
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
Front
Left
Operator's Position
Right
(1) Manual
(2) Lock
Washers 5/16
Q
(2) Flange Locknuts
5/16-18 UNC
(1) Plastic
Cable Clip
(2) Hex Bolts
5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(1) Bottle Engine Oil
(2) Carriage Bolts 5/16-18 UNC x 2-3/8 Gr. 5
©
(2) Hex Nuts
5/16-18
5
Page 6
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL
HANDLE
A, 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 cable(s).
• Cut cable ties securing handle column.
• Slowly lift handle column up and slip
over handle mount.
• Remove packing from carton.
• Secure handle column to handle mount
using two (2) carriage bolts and two (2)
flange Iocknuts. Tighten both flange
Iocknuts securely.
• Remove packing material from handle
assembly.
• Insert plastic cable clip into hole in han-
dle column.
• Route fine control cable through plastic
cable clip on handle column.
• Cut away carton.
: Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid.
Remove tiller from skid by pulling back-
wards.
Tine
Tine Control Cable
Handle Mount
Column
"line Control
Cable •
\
Engine Bracket Halves
Nut "A"
Depth Stake
\
Stake
Support Bolt
lex Bolts Lockwashers
and Rex nuts
HANDLE HEIGHT
• Handle height may be adjusted to better
suit operator. (See "HANDLE HEIGHT"
in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual).
TILLING WIDTH
• Tilling width may be adjusted to better
handle your tilling conditions (See "TINE
ARRANGEMENT" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual).
TINE OPERATION
• Check tine operation before first use.
(See "TiNE OPERATION CHECK" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).
Carriage
Bolts Flange Iocknuts
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY
, • Loosen nut "A".
• Insert stake support between engine
bracket halves with stake spring down.
with bolts, lock washers and nuts.
i olt stake support to engine brackets
Tighten securely. "13ghtennut "A". ;
Depth stake must move freely. If it doe_
not, loosen support bolt.
cable
clip
!' 6
Page 7
KNOW YOUR TILLER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
TILLER.
Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiadze yourself with the location of vari-
ous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the prod-
uct. Learn and understand their meaning.
F N RA ,= I\l _:_",,_ool
TILUNG FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE CAUTION _ EN_NE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEZ OiL
Forward "ll3ne
Control
ORWARNING ON D_F
Choke Control
Control
Recoil Starter Handlq
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages
tines in forward direction.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a
cold engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine
speed.
Institute.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed
and the depth at which the tiller will dig.
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to
start the engine.
7
"Nnes
Page 8
Theoperationof anytiller canresultin foreignobjectsthrowninto the eyes,
whichcanresultin severeeye damage. Alwayswearsafety glassesor eye
shieldsbeforestartingyour tiller andwhiletilling. We recommenda widevision
safetymaskoverspectaclesor standardsafetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER
Knowhowto operateall controlsbefore
addingfuel and oil or attempting to start
engine.
STOPPING
TINES
• Release forward tine control to stop for-
ward movement.
ENGINE
• Move throttle control to =STOP" position.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
Forward "13naControl"OFF (UP) Position
Forward Tine Control "ON" (DOWN
Position
Choke.
Control
Control
TINE OPERATION
• Squeeze tine controlto handle.
TILLING
The speed and depth of tilling is regulated
by the position of the depth stake and
wheel height.
The depth stake should always be below
the wheels for digging. It serves as a
brake to slow the tiller's forward motion to
enable the tines to penetrate the ground.
Also, the more the depth stake is lowered
into the ground the deeper the tines will
dig.
DEPTH STAKE
Adjust depth stake by removing the hair-
pin clip and clevis pin. Change depth
stake to desired, position. Replace the cle-
vis pin and hairpin clip.
• For normal tilling, set depth stake at the
second or third hole from the top.
WHEELS
Adjust wheels by removing the hairpin clip
and clevis pin. Change wheel position.
Replace the hairpin clip and clevis pin.
• For normal tilling, set wheels at the sec-
ond or third hole from the top.
.Hairpin Clip
and Clevis Pin
i Depth Stake
7,/, Y -Ha',rpinClip
/ "-/ andClevisPin
Stake Spring
TRANSPORTING YOUR TILLER
ACAUTION: Before lifting or transport-
ing, allow tiller engine and muffler to cool.
Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gaso-
line from fuel tank.
AROUND THE YARD
• Tip depth stake forward until it is held by
the stake spring.
• Push tiller handles down, raising tines
off the ground.
• Push or pull tiller to desired location.
AROUND TOWN
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Drain fueltank.
• 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.
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL
• Remove hang tag from engine.
With engine level remove engine oil
filler plug.
• Fill engine with oil to point of overflow-
ing. For approximate capacity see
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on
page 4 of this manual.
8
Page 9
• Tilttillerbackon itswheelsandthen re-
level.
• With engine level, refill to point of over-
flowing if necessary. Replace oil filler
plug.
• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See =OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the
Maintenance section of this manual.
Oil Level
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline. (Use of leaded
gasoline will increase carbon and lead
oxide deposits and reduce valve life.)
IMPORTANT: When operating in
Temperatures below 32°F (0°C), use fresh,
clean, winter grade gasoline to help insure
good cold weather starting.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be emp-
tiedbefore storage of 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let
it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage section of this manual for addition- '
al information. Never use engine or carbu-
retor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
_,CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow
for fuel expansion. If gasoline is acciden-
tally spilled, move machine away from
area of spill. Avoid creating any source of
ignition until gasoline vapors have disap-
peared. Do not overfill. Wipe off any
spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.
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.
• Make sure spark plug wire is properly
connected.
• Place throttle control in "FAST" position.
• Move choke control to full "CHOKE"
position. 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).
• Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not
let starter handle snap back against
starter. Repeat if necessary.
• If engine fires but does not start, move
choke control to half choke position. Pull
recoil starter handle until engine starts.
• When engine starts, slowly move choke
control to "RUN" position as engine
warms up.
NOTE: A warm engine requires less chok-
ing to start.
• Move throttle control to desired running
position.
• Allow engine to warm up for a few min-
utes before engaging tines.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or
in cold temperatures (below 32°F), the car-
buretor 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.
r___ Spark Plug
_ Choke Control
_,_"_::_"X__---_ _"___,, Throttle Control
__ _.-Recoil ,;tarter
BREAKING IN YOUR TILLER
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine con-
trol before you actually begin tilling.
9
Page 10
• Start engine, tip tines off ground by
pressing handles down and engage tine
control to start tine rotation. Allow tines
to rotate for five minutes.
• Check tine operation and adjust if nec-
essary. See "FINE OPERATION
CHECK" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
TILLING HINTS
_CAUTION: Until you are accustomed to
handling yourtilier, start actual field use
with throttle in slow position (mid-way be-
tween "FAST" and "iDLE").
To help tiller move forward, lift up the han-
dles slightly (thus lifting depth stake out of
ground). To slow down the tiller, press
down on handles.
If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the
wheels and depth stake are not set prop-
edy in the soil being tilled. The proper set-
ting of the wheels and depth stake is
through tdal and error and depends upon
the soil condition. (The harder or wetter
the ground, the slower the engine and fine
speed needed. Under these poor condi-
tions, at fast speed the tiller will run and
jump over the ground).
A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little
effort from the operator.
• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and
breaking up packed soil before planting.
Loose, unpacked soil helps root growth.
Best tilling depth is 4" to 6". A tiller will
also clear the soil of unwanted vegeta-
tion. The decomposition of this veg-
etable 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 fur-
ther 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 negotiate
than about-faces. Second, the tiller
won't be pulling itself, and you, toward
the row next to it.
Set depth stake and wheel height for
shallow tilling when working extremely
hard soil or sod. Then work across the
first cuts at normal depth.
CULTIVATING
Cultivating is destroying the weeds
between rows to prevent them from rob-
bing nourishment and moisture from the
plants. At the same time, breaking up the
upper layer of soil crust will help retain
moisture in the soil. Best digging depth is
1" to 3".
You will probably not need to use the
depth stake. Begin by tipping the depth
stake forward until it is held by the stake
spring.
Cultivate up and down the rows at a
speed which will allow tines to uproot
weeds and leave the ground in rou_gh
condition, promoting no further
growth of weeds and grass.
O OIO O oI
OOIO O
OOIO
OOIO O
10
Page 11
SCHEDULE
MATENANCRE____cE
Check EngineOil Level ll/ I#/
Change Engine Oil I_l,=
Oil Pivot Points it/
Inspect Spark An'ester/ Muffler IV/
Inspect Air Screen I_
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge I_ 2
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins I/
Replace Spark Plug I_
I - Changemote oftenwhenopera_g underiI heavyloado_in highambienttemperatures.
2 - Settee m_e ofl_m_',t_enopemln9in di_tyof _'_J,ycon_t_ons.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tiller does not cover
items that have been subjected to opera-
tor abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must
maintain tiller as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your tiller.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should
be checked at least once each season.
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter,
and check tines and belt for wear. A
new spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help
your engine run better and last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check line operation.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See =LUBRICA-
TION CHART').
LUBRICATION CHART
° TINE
** ENGINE
* IDLER
ARM
* SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL
** REFER TO MAINTENANCE "ENGINE"
SECTION.
11
Page 12
Disconnectsparkplugwirebeforeper-
formingany maintenance(except.carbure-
tor adjustment)to preventacc=dentalstart-
ingof 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, SG or
SH. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
ac .30+ O" tO* _= 30=
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 32°F (0°C). Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running low
on oil.
Change the oil after every 50 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the tiller
is not used for 50 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before start-
ing the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Add SAE 30
motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler
plug securely each time you check the oil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
Determine temperature range expected
before oil change. All oil must meet API
service classification SF, SG or SH.
• Be sure tiller is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• Remove drain plug.
• Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
• After oil has drained completely,_replace
oH drain plug and tighten securely.
• Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to
allow dirt to enter the engine.
• Refill engine with oil. See "FILL
ENGINE WITH OIL" in the Operation
section of this manual.
/
Oil Drain ;
Plug_ \'
'_ Oil Filter
Plug
AIR CLEANER
Service air cleaner cartridge every 50
hours, more often if engine is used in very
dusty conditions.
• Loosen air cleaner screws, one on each
side of cover.
• Remove air cleaner cover.
• Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge.
Be careful. Do not allow dirt or debris to
fall into carburetor.
• Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur-
face.
• If very dirty or damaged, replace car-
tridge.
• Clean and replace cover. Tighten screws
securely.
_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration of
the cartddge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not
use pressurized air to clean or dry car-
tridge.
Air
Cleaner
Screw
COOLING SYSTEM
Your engine is air cooled. For proper
engine performance and long life keep
your engine clean.
• Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-
bristled brush.
• Remove blower housing and clean as
necessary.
• Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.
12
Cover
Air
Cleaner
Cartridge
Page 13
Cylinder Fins
Muffler_ Blower
Dg
MUFFLER
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not
tamper with exhaust system. Damaged
mufflers or spark arresters could create a
fire hazard. Inspect periodically and re-
place if necessary. If your engine is
equipped with a spark arres_ter screen
assembly, remove every 50 hours for
cleaning and inspection. Replace if dam-
aged.
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
Your transmission is sealed and will only
require lubrication if it is serviced.
CLEANING
• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all
foreign matter.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• Protect painted surfaces with automotive
type wax.
We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean your unit unless the muffler,
air filter and carburetor are covered to
keep water out. Water in engine can result
in a shortened engine life.
A, CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come into contact with plug.
TILLER
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT
Factory assembly has provided lowest
handle height. Select handle height best
suited for your tilling conditions. Handle
height will be different when tiller digs into
soil.
• If a higher handle height is desired,
loosen the four nuts securing handle
panel to engine brackets.
• Slide handle panel to desired location.
• Tighten the four nuts securely.
Handle Panel
(Also 2
on left side
tiller)
TINE ARRANGEMENT
Your outer tines can be assembled in sev-
eral different ways to suit your tilling or cul-
tivating needs.
,_,CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when handling
tines.
NORMAL TILLING - 24" PATH
• Assemble holes "A" in tine hubs to holes
"B" in tine shaft.
_-- Clevis Pin Outer _e
A i A
a{rpm unp _ Inner *line
MID-WIDTH TILLING - _." PATH
• Assemble holes =A"in tine hubs to holes
"C" in tine shaft.
13
Page 14
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING -
12-3/4" PATH
• Remove outer tines.
Inner Tines Only
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines,
be sure righ t tine assembly (marked "R")
and left tine assembly (marked =L') are
mounted to correct side of tine shaft.
NOTE: If "ON" position check required
adjustment, recheck "OFF" position
adjustment to insure tines do not rotate
when control is "OFP (up).
_;netr_
-.-"
Positiion line (.;ontrol _ \
"ON" Position " "
Tir,e Control Cable
Cable Clip
TINE OPERATION CHECK
ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug to prevent starting while
checking tine operation.
For proper tine operation, tine control lever
must be against control body and all slack
removed from inner wire of control cable
when control is in the =OFP (up) position.
If lever and cable are loose, loosen cable
clip at lower end of cable Pull up on cable
to remove slack, without extending spring
on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.
FINAL CHECK "OFF" POSITION
• With tine control "OFP (up), push down
on handle to raise tines off the ground.
• Slowly pull recoil starter handle while
observing tines. Tines should not
rotate.
• If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable
is too tight which is extending lower
spring and engaging tines. Loosen
cable clip and push down on cable only
enough to relieve spring tension.
Tighten cable clip.
• Recheck in "OFP position and adjust if
necessary.
FINAL CHECK "ON" POSITION
• With tine control "ON" (held down to
handle) push down on handle to raise
tines off the ground.
• Slowly pull recoil stader handle while
observing tines. Tines should rotate for-
ward.
• If tines do not rotate, inner wire of con-
trol cable is too loose. Loosen cable clip
and pull cable up to remove slack and
retighten clip.
• Recheck in "ON" position and adjust if
necessary.
\
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD
• Remove screws from side of belt guard.
• Pull belt guard out and away from unit.
• Replace belt guard by reversing above
procedure. Be sure slot in bottom of belt
guard is under head of tine shield bolt
and all nuts are tightened securely.
Screw
J J ._ _ BeltGuard
I"'- \
TO REPLACE V-BELT
Replace V-belt if it has stretched consider-
ably or if it has cracks or frayed edges.
Belt guard must be removed to service
belt. See "TO REMOVE BELT GUARD"
in this section of manual.
BELT REMOVAL
• Remove V-belt from transmission pulley
first and then from engine pulley.
BELT REPLACEMENT
• Install new V-belt to engine pulley first
then to transmission pulley.
Screw
14
Page 15
Besure belt is positionedon inside
grooveofboth pulleys,insideall belt
guidesand restson idler pulley.
CHECKTINE OPERATION
• See "TINE OPERATION CHECK" in this
section of manual.
REPLACE BELT GUARD
Belt Guide
Engine
\
Idler Pulley Pulley
ENGINE
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the
emission control devices and systems,
which are being done at the customers
expense, may be performed by any non-
road engine repair establishment or indi-
vidual. Warranty repairs must be per-
formed by an authorized engine manufac-
turer's service outlet.
IDLE RPM ADJUSTMENT
• To adjust idle RPM, rotate throttle link-
age counterclockwise and hold against
stop while adjusting idle speed adjusting
screw to obtain 1750 RPM. Release
throttle linkage.
High speed stop is factory adjusted. Do
not adjust or damage may result.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the en-
gine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed, overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed set-
ting can be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs adjust-
ing, contact your nearest authorized ser-
vice center/department, which has the
proper equipment and experience to make
any necessary adjustments.
Throttle Linkage
Throttle Stop
\
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has a high speed jet and
has been preset at the factory and adjust-
ment should not be necessary. However,
minor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temper-
ature, altitude or load. If the carburetor
does need adjustment, proceed as follows.
FINAL SETTING
• Start engine and allow to warm for five
minutes.
• With throttle control lever in =SLOW"
position.
Idle Speed
Adjusting
Screw
15
Page 16
Immediatelyprepare your tiller for storage
at the end of the season or if the unit will
not be used for 30 days or more.
_,CAUTION: Never store the tiller with
gasoline in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TILLER
• Clean entire tiller (See "CLEANING" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
• Inspect and replace belts, if necessary
(See belt replacement instructions in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.
Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint sur-
faces; sand lightly before painting.
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as the carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam-
age the fuel system of an engine while in
storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add sta-
bilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow the mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer
to allow the stabilizer to reach the carbure-
tor. Do not drain the gas tank and carbu-
retor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil (See =ENGINE" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual).
CYLINDER(S)
• Remove spark plug,
• Pour I ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly several times
to distribute oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and
dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do
not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe
which allows condensation to form and
will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover tiller while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
16
Page 17
PROBLEM
CAUSE
CORRECTION
Will not start
Hard to start
1.
Out of fuel,
2.
Engine not "CHOKED"
properly.
3.
Engine flooded.
4.
Dirty air cleaner.
5.
Water in fuel.
6.
Clogged fuel tank.
7.
Loose spark plug wire.
8.
Bad spark plug or
improper gap.
9.
Carburetor out of adjust-
ment.
1.
Throttle control not set
properly.
2.
Dirty air cleaner.
3.
Bad spark plug or
improper gap.
4.
Stale or dirty fuel.
5.
Loose spark plug wire.
6.
Carburetor out of.
adjustment.
1. Fillfuel tank.
2. See "TO START ENGINE" in.the
Operation section.
3. Wait several minutes before
attempting to start.
4. Clean or replace air cleaner car
tddge.
5. Drain fuel tank and carburetor,
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
6. Remove fuel tank and dean.
7. Make sure spark plug wire is seat
ed properly on plug.
8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
9. Make necessary adjustments.
1.
Place throttlecontrol in =FAST"
position.
2.
Clean or replace air cleaner car
tddga.
3.
Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
4.
Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh
gasoline.
5.
Make sure spark plugwire is seat
ed properly on plug.
6.
Make necessary adjustments.
Loss of power
1.
Engine is overloaded.
2.
Dirty air cleaner.
3.
Low oil level/dirty oil.
4.
Faulty spark plug.
5.
Oil in fuel.
6.
Stale or dirty fuel,
7.
Water in fuel.
8.
Clogged fuel tank.
9.
Spark plug wire loose.
wire.
10.
Dirty engine air screen.
11.
Dirty/clogged muffler.
12.
Carburetor out of
adjustment.
13.
Poor compression.
17
1,
Set depth stake and wheels for
shallower tilling.
2.
Clean or replace air cleaner car
tridga.
3.
Check oil level/change oil.
4.
Clean and regap or change spark
plug.
5.
Drain and clean fuel tank and
refill, and clean carburetor.
6.
Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh
gasoline.
7.
Drain fuel tank and carburetor,
and refill tank with fresh gasoline.
8.
Remove fuel tank and clean.
9.
Connect and tighten spark plug
10.
Clean engine air screen.
Clean/replace muffler.
11.
12.
Make necessary adjustments.
13"
Contact an authodzed Sears
Service CentedDepartment.
i
Page 18
PROBLEM
Engineoverheats
CAUSE
!
1. Lowoil level/dirty oil
2. Dirty engine air screen.
3. Dirty engine.
4. Partially plugged muffler.
5. Improper carburetor
adjustment.
CORRECTION
1. Check oil level/change oil.
2. Clean engine air screen.
3. Clean cylinder fins, air screen, muf
tier area.
4. Remove and clean muffler.
5. Adjust carburetor to dcher posi
tion.
Excessivebounce/
difficulthandling
Soilballsupor
clumps
Enginerunsbut
tiller won't move
Enginerunsbut
laborswhentilling
1. Ground too dry and hard.
.
Wheels and depth stake
incorrectly adjusted.
1. Ground too wet.
1. line control is not engaged,
2. V-belt not correctlyadjusted.
3. V-belt is off pulley(s).
1. Tilling too deep.
2. Throttle control not properly
adjusted.
3. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Moisten ground or wait for more
favorable soil conditions.
2. Adjustwheels and depth stake.
1.
Wait for more favorable soil condi
tions.
1. Engage tine control.
2. Perform "13neOperation Check
3. Inspect V-belt.
1. Set depth stake for shallower till
ing.
2. Check throttle control setting.
3. Make necessary adjustments.
18
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