READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
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 arrester
for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-0019.
Operating Your Tiller ........................................... 8
Finding and Recording Model Number
BEFORE YOU BEGIN ASSEMBLING YOUR NEW
EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the equipment
and copy the information to the sample model plate provided
to the right. You can locate the model plate by looking at
the rear of the tine shield. This information is important for
use when visiting the manufacturer’s web site, obtaining
assistance from the Customer Support Department, or when
communicating with an authorized service dealer.
Maintaining Your Tiller ...................................... 12
purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
• Visit mtdproducts.com.
• Call a Customer Support Representative at 1-800-800-7310.
• The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with
your unit, for more information.
NOT
return the unit to the retailer from which it was
2
Safety Labels Found On Your Tiller
1
Safety
Labels
WARNING
DO NOT remove safety
(or any) labels from
tiller for any reason.
3
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
2
Safe
Operation
Practices
WARNING
This symbol points out
important safety instructions which, if not
followed, could endanger
the personal safety and /or
property of yourself and
others. Read and follow all
instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result in
personal injury. When you
see this symbol, HEED
ITS WARNING!
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation
in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of
the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and
feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine
Training
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
•
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
•
Know how to stop the machine.
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
•
this machine. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised by a parent.
Never allow adults to operate this machine without
•
proper instruction.
Keep bystanders, helpers, pets, and children at least
•
75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
Preparation
Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is
•
to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, and other
foreign objects which could be tripped over and cause
personal injury.
Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close
•
fitting slacks and shirt. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry
can be caught in movable parts. Never operate this
machine in bare feet or sandals.
Disengage clutch levers and shift (if provided) into
•
neutral (“N” ) before starting the engine.
Never leave this machine unattended with the engine
•
running.
Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine
•
is running, except where specifically recommended in
the operator’s manual.
To avoid personal injury or property damage use
•
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is
spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
Use only an approved gasoline container.
•
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
•
sources of ignition.
Never fuel machine indoors.
•
•
is hot or running.
Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before
•
refueling
Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½
•
inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for
fuel expansion.
Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
•
If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
•
equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait five
minutes before starting the engine.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
•
near an open flame, spark or pilot light (e.g. furnace,
water or space heater, clothes dryer, etc.).
Allow machine to cool five minutes before storing.
•
Operation
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact
•
with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
Do not operate machine while under the influence of
•
alcohol or drugs.
Never operate this machine without good visibility or
•
light. Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm
hold on the handles.
Keep bystanders, helpers, pets, and children at least
•
75 feet from the machine while it is in operation.
Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.
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 handle bars and do not
restrain the machine.
Exercise extreme caution when operating on or
•
crossing gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden
hazards or traffic.
Never operate the machine at high transport speeds
•
on hard or slippery surfaces.
Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
•
Look down and behind and use care when in reverse
•
or pulling machine towards you.
Start the engine according to the instructions found
•
in this manual and keep feet well away from the tines
at all times.
4
After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
•
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against
the engine Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before starting and
operating.
Disengage all clutch levers (if fitted) and stop engine
•
before you leave the operating position (behind the
handles). Wait until the tines come to a complete
stop before unclogging the tines, making any adjustments, or inspections.
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
•
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
•
burn. Do not touch.
Use caution when tilling near fences, buildings and
•
underground utilities. Rotating tines can cause
property damage or personal injury.
Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to
•
till soil too deep at too fast of a rate.
If the machine should start making an unusual noise
•
or vibration, stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground it against the engine. Inspect
thoroughly for damage. Repair any damage before
starting and operating.
Keep all shields, guards, and safety devices in place
•
and operating properly.
Never pick up or carry machine while the engine is
•
running.
Use only attachments and accessories approved
•
by the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in
personal injury.
If situations occur which are not covered in this
•
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
dealer or call the customer service number found on
page two.
Maintenance & Storage
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
•
proper operation regularly.
Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at
•
frequent intervals to keep the machine in safe
working condition. Also, visually inspect machine
for any damage.
Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, stop the
•
engine and make certain the tines and all moving
parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.
Do not change the engine governor settings or
•
over-speed the engine. The governor controls the
maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels,
•
as necessary.
Follow this manual for safe loading, unloading,
•
transporting, and storage of this machine.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
•
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer, etc.
Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper
•
instructions on off-season storage.
If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
•
Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for
•
gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons
•
who read, understand, and follow the warnings and
instructions in this manual and on the machine.
The safety labels on the tiller are shown in the
•
“Safety Labels” section. To ensure safe operation
of the tiller, follow the instructions on all labels
closely.
2
Safe
Operation
Practices
WARNING
This symbol points out
important safety instructions which, if not
followed, could endanger
the personal safety and /or
property of yourself and
others. Read and follow all
instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result in
personal injury. When you
see this symbol, HEED ITS
WARNING!
5
3
Tiller Setup
References to right and left side of tiller are determined
from behind the unit in the operating position.
2. Hook the “Z” end of the forward clutch cable
(A) into the forward tine engagement lever
Figure 3–2.
3. Hook the “Z” end of the reverse clutch cable
(B) into the reverse tine engagement lever
Figure 3–2.
Figure 3–2: Insert cables into levers.
Figure 3–3: Insert handle into frame.
4. Remove the hex bolt and cupped washer from
the right side of the frame. Hold the cable
guide bracket on the left side of frame as it
will fall when the bolt is removed.
Figure 3–3 Step 1.
5. Insert handle into tiller frame as shown. See
Figure 3–3 Step 2.
6. Insert bolt through the cupped washer, frame,
handle and into the cable guide bracket (note
the notch in the cable guide bracket goes
over the flange on the frame.) See Figure
3–3 Step 3. Tighten the bolt securely after
securing handle brace as seen in Figure 3–4.
6
7. Locate the carriage bolt, bell washer and
hand knob packed with your unit.
8. Insert the carriage bolt through the welded
bracket on the handle, bell washer, handle
brace and into the hand knob.
See Figure 3–4.
9. Select one of the three handle height
positions (three notches in welded handle
bracket) and tighten the hand knob to secure
the handle in the desired position.
Figure 3–4. Return to lower handle and
tighten the hex bolt securely
3
Assembly
Figure 3–4: Remove hardware from lower handle.
Depth Gage Attachment
1. Disassemble the depth gage assembly as
seen in Figure 3–5. Retain the pin and clip for
later reassembly.
2. Remove the two screws from the rear of the
tiller frame as shown in Figure 3–6.
3. Insert the depth gage bracket into the frame
and reinstall the two screws removed earlier.
Tighten the hex bolts securely.
See Figure 3–6.
Figure 3–5: Disassemble depth gage if necessary.
Figure 3–6: Insert depth gage bracket into frame.
NOTE: Stand behind
the tiller as if you were
going to operate it. Your
right hand corresponds
to right side of
tiller; your left hand
corresponds to
left side of tiller.
IMPORTANT
This unit is shipped
without gasoline or
oil in the engine. Fill
up gasoline and oil
as instructed in the
accompanying engine
manual BEFORE
operating your tiller.
4. Insert the depth stake into the depth gage
bracket assembly as seen in Figure 3–7.
Secure the pin with the clip removed earlier.
The depth stake can be placed at various
positions. For setup purposes it is suggested
that the depth stake be assembled with the
stake just above or level with the ground
surface. For further instructions on the
Depth Stake refer to adjustments section
of this manual.
Figure 3–7: Reassemble depth stake.
7
4
Operating
Your Tiller
Your Tiller
Reverse Tine
Engagement Lever
Handle
Forward Tine
Engagement Lever
WARNING
The tine clutch control
is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operation.
Use extreme care when
handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors
are explosive. Never fuel
tiller indoors or while
engine is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
Keep hands and feet away
from the tines. Refer to
warning label on the unit.
Throttle Control
Tiller Tines
Figure 4–1: The major parts of the tiller
WARNING: Read, understand, and
follow all instructions and warnings
posted on the machine and in this
manual before operating.
Forward Tine Engagement Lever
The forward tine control lever is located beneath the
upper section of the handle. Squeezing the lever against
the handle engages the tine drive. Release the lever to
stop the tines from turning.
Reverse Tine Engagement Lever
The reverse tine control lever is located on top of the
upper section of the handle. Pulling the lever toward
operator engages the tines in reverse. Release the lever
to stop the tines from turning in reverse.
Note: Never engage both the forward and reverse tine
drives at the same time. Engaging both forward and
reverse tine drives at the same time could damage the
belt drives and cause the engin to stall.
Depth Stake
The depth stake controls the tilling depth. Refert to
Operating Your Tiller later in this section for further
instructions on its use.
Handle Knob
Depth Stake
End Cap
Tines and End Caps
Tilling tines and end caps are used to cultivate, furrow
and prepare your garden for seeding. End caps are used
to avoid tilled soil from overflowing onto unwanted areas.
Handle Knob
The handle height may be adjusted. Loosen the knob to
change the position. Tighten hardware when complete.
Engine Controls
NOTE: Refer to engine manual for additional information
and functions of the engine controls.
Throttle Control
The throttle controls engine’s speed. Use maximum
engine speed when tilling. Stop the engine when
tranporting the tiller.
Choke Lever
Choke lever is located next to the throttle lever. It is used
to enrich the fuel mixture when starting a cold engine.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is located on the right side of the engine
and is used to manually start the engine.
8
Operating Your Tiller
4
Operating
Choke
Throttle
Figure 4–2: Engine choke and throttle controls
WARNING: Read, understand, and
follow all instructions and warnings
posted on the machine and in this
manual before operating.
Before Starting
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your tiller. Read
instructions carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are
explosive. Never fuel machine indoors
or while the engine is hot or running.
3. Move throttle control 1/ 3 of the way toward the
FAST position.
4. Move/pull out choke lever to CHOKE position when
starting cold engine.
5. Pull rope out slowly until engine reaches the
beginning of its compression cycle (rope will pull
slightly harder at this point).
6. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keep a firm grip on handle. Let rope rewind slowly.
Do not let recoil starter snap back against engine.
Repeat until engine starts.
7. Move/push in choke lever once engine warms up
enough to run smoothly.
8. Move throttle to FAST position for tilling.
Your Tiller
WARNING
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the tiller
while starting engine
or operating the unit.
Never run engine
indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away
from any moving parts
on engine and tiller.
Starting Engine
WARNING: Be sure no one is standing
in front of the tiller while the engine is
running or being started.
Refer to the engine manual for instructions.
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make sure the
metal cap on the end of the spark plug is fastened
securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
2. Make sure that the tine clutch control is disengaged.
Stopping Engine
Move throttle control lever to STOP or OFF position.
Refer to the engine manual for instructions on stopping
the engine.
9
Refer to the engine
manual for detailed
engine instructions.
4
Operating
Your Tiller
Using Your Tiller
Your tiller is designed for seed bed preparation, cultivating, furrowing, and mulching.
Wheel Position
The tiller is shipped with the wheels adjusted so that the
unit sits level. The wheels need to be adjusted to meet
your tilling needs before operation. This adjustment is
made by removing the clevis pin from the wheel yoke
and raising the wheels to the desired height.
See Figure 4–3.
WARNING
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the tiller
while starting engine
or operating the unit.
Never run engine
indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away
from any moving parts
on engine and tiller.
Refer to the engine
manual for detailed
instructions pertaining
to the engine controls.
Figure 4–3: Wheel and depth stake positioning.
Figure 4–4: Wheel and Yoke forward for shallow tilling.
Figure 4–5: Wheel and Yoke back for deeper tilling.
Tilling Depth and Wheel
Yoke Adjustment
Placement of wheel yoke will effect depth of tilling.
Yoke Forward
Place the wheel yoke so that wheels are forward (nearest to tines) for shallow tilling, cultivating and transport.
See Figure 4–4.
Yoke to Back
Place the wheel yoke so that wheels are toward rear
(closest to depth stake) for deep tilling and cultivating.
See Figure 4–5.
Depth Stake
The depth stake acts as a brake for the tiller and
controls the depth and speed at which the machine will
operate. Remove the clevis pin and hairpin clip to raise
or lower depth stake. See Figure 4– 6.
Handle Pressure
Further control of tilling depth and travel speed can be
obtained by variation of pressure on the handles.
A downward pressure on the handles will reduce the
working depth and increase the forward speed. An
upward pressure on the handles will increase the
working depth and reduce the forward speed.
The type of soil and working conditions will determine
the actual setting of the depth stake and the handle
pressure required.
Transporting and
Figure 4–6: Pivot depth stake for transportation.
Storing the Tiller
To transport and store the tiller move the throttle to the
stop position. Pivot the depth stake away from ground up
between wheels. See Figure 4-6.
10
Tilling Procedure
When tilling, leave approximately eight inches of untilled
soil between the first and second tilling paths, then make
the third path between the first and second, Figure 4–7.
In some soils, the desired depth is obtained the first
time over the garden. In other soils, the desired depth
is obtained by going over the garden two or three times.
Passes should be made across the length and width of
the garden alternately. Rocks which are turned up should
be removed from the garden area.
With the outer tines installed, the working width of the
machine is 24 inches. This width may be expanded to
26 inches by removing the clevis and cotter pins, sliding
each outer tine outward away from the center of the unit
and resecuring the pins in the holes provided.
See Figure 4–8.
4
45231
Operating
Your Tiller
Figure 4–7: Recommended tiller paths.
Removing End Caps
The end cap, which is used to avoid tilled soil from
overflowing onto unwanted areas, are removable from the
axle. Remove the hairpin clip and clevis pin that secure
each end cap and slide the end caps off the axle.
See Figure 4–9.
Cultivating
For cultivating, a two to three inch depth is desirable.
The tine width can be reduced to 13 inches by removing
the outer tines completely from the tiller. See figure 4–8.
When laying out plant rows, be sure to allow enough
width to permit cultivation between the rows. In growing
corn or similar crops, check-row planting will permit cross
cultivation and practically eliminate hand hoeing.
Figure 4–10.
The tiller has many uses other than tilling and cultivating
a garden. One of these is the preparation of lawn area for
seeding. The tiller will prepare a deep seed bed which will
be free of hard untilled spots, allowing a better stand of
grass to grow. The tiller is very useful for loosening hard
soil for excavation with a shovel; No tedious handwork
will be necessary. Your tiller may be used for mixing
compost in the pile or for mixing it with the soil in your
garden. This should be done after the soil has been
broken to the full working depth. The compost should be
worked in to a depth of six to seven inches. This may be
done by working the length of the garden and then by
making separate passes across its width. The addition
of decayed organic matter will substantially increase
the fertility of your garden. For proper decaying action,
fertilizer should be applied and worked in with the mulch
materials. Breaking up leaves and straw and mixing it with
several inches of soil allows proper aeration of the plant
root system and retards the growth of weeds.
Figure 4–8: Moving and removing outer tines.
Figure 4–9: Removing end caps.
Figure 4–10: Allow area between rows for cultivation.
WARNING
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the tiller
while starting engine
or operating the unit.
Never run engine
indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away
from any moving parts
on engine and tiller.
Refer to the engine
manual for detailed
instructions pertaining
to engine controls.
11
5
Maintaining
Your Tiller
WARNING
Disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground
it against the engine
before performing
any repairs or
maintenance.
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine
before performing any repairs.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Service air cleaner every ten hours under normal
conditions. Clean every hour under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced.
To service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
IMPORTANT: Never run your engine without air cleaner
completely assembled.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset every 25 hours of engine operation. Spark plug
replacement is recommended at the start of each tiller
season; check engine manual for correct plug type and
gap specification.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all dirt and
combustible debris from muffler area.
Lubrication
Pivot Points
Remove the belt cover and lubricate all pivot points and
linkages at least once a season with light oil. Keep belts
free of lubrication.
Tine Shafts
Remove tine assemblies and lubricate the tine shafts at
least once a season.
Wheel Shafts
Remove wheel assemblies and lubricate the axle shafts
at least once a season.
Chain Drive
The chain drive is pre-lubricated and sealed at factory.
Cleaning Tine Area
Clean underside of the tine shield after each use. The
dirt washes off the tines easier if rinsed off immediately
instead of after it dries. Always towel dry the tiller
afterwards and apply a light coat of oil or silicone to
prevent rusting or water damage.
IMPORTANT: Never use a “pressure washer” to clean
your tiller. Water can penetrate tight areas of the tiller
and its chain case and cause serious damage to unit.
Figure 5–1: Screw and nut removal.
Belt Replacement
Reverse Drive Belt
Your tiller has been engineered with a belt made of
special material (Kevlar Tensile) for longer life and better
performance. It should not be replaced with an off-the-shelf
belt. Order all belts through you authorized service dealer.
1. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire against
the engine.
2. Remove the belt cover from the left side of the tiller by
removing the two self-tapping screws and hex stop nut
and washer.
See Figure 5–1.
3. Remove belt from transmission pulley and then from
around the reverse idler pulley. See Figure 5–2.
4. To reassemble new belt. Follow instructions in reverse
order. Be sure to place wider side of belt against
transmission and idler pulley while slimmer side goes
over the engine pulley. See Figure 5–2.
NOTE: Upon reassembly, make certain the belt is routed
over the idler pulley and inside of belt keepers by engine
pulley. See Figure 5–2.
Figure 5–2: Reverse drive belt removal.
12
Belt Replacement
Forward Drive Belt
1. Remove reverse drive belt as instructed in the
previous section.
2. Remove the return spring. See Figure 5–3.
3. Remove idler pulley bolt and move belt from under
idler pulley keeper. See Figure 5–4.
4. The forward idler belt will not clear the belt keepers
near the engine pulley. You must remove the reverse
idler bracket to allow the belt to move off of the engine
pulley. Remove the two securing screws and move
the bracket toward the transmission pulley. Retain the
screws for reassembly. See Figure 5–5.
5. Remove belt from the reverse idler pulley and then
from around the transmission pulley. See Figure 5–6.
6. To reassemble new belt. Follow instructions in reverse
order. Be sure to place wider side of belt away from
the engine and transmission pulleys.
NOTE: Upon reassembly, make certain the idler pulley
keeper is as shown in Figure 5–4. Take note of the
notch on the bottom of the keeper and alignment when
reassembling with the replacement belt.
Figure 5–4: Idler pulley keeper belt removal.
Remove
Screws
5
Maintaining
Your Tiller
WARNING
Do not move the gear
selection handle
with the wheels or
tines engaged. Make
certain the unit is
stopped completely
before changing the
gear selection. A
partial engagement
may be necessary
when engaging tines.
Return Spring
Figure 5–3: Return spring removal.
Figure 5–5: Bracket screw removal.
Figure 5–6: Forward drive belt removal.
13
Do not push down
on handles so that
wheels are lifted off
the ground while
using the tine drive,
or tiller could move
backward and cause
personal injury.
Never attempt
to make any
adjustments
while engine is
running, except
where specified in
operator’s manual.
5
Maintaining
Your Tiller
WARNING
Disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground
it against the engine
before performing
any repairs or
maintenance.
Reverse Tine
Engagement Cable
Forward Tine
Engagement Cable
Figure 5–7: Reverse drive belt removal.
Cable Adjustment
From time to time you may need to adjust the tension on
the forward and reverse tine engagement cables.
1. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire against
the engine.
2. Adjust either the forward or reverse clutch cable by
loosening the hex nut. See Figure 5–8.
3. Turn the cable collar section one or two turns to add or
lesson tension on the cable. See Figure 5–9.
4. Retighten the lock nut against the cable collar.
See Figure 5–10.
5. With the forward and reverse tine engagement
handles in neutral (released) positions, pull the starter
rope several times. The tines should not turn. If they
turn forward, adjust the forward tine engagement
cable to release tension using the previous steps in
this section. If the tines turn toward rear, adjust the
reverse tine engagement cable to lesson the tension
as with previous steps. Check again for correct
tension on cables.
Lock Nut
Figure 5–8: Reverse drive belt removal.
Cable Collar
Figure 5–9: Reverse drive belt removal.Figure 5–10: Reverse drive belt removal.
Lock Nut
14
Off-Season Storage
If the tiller will not be used for a period longer than 30 days, the
following steps should be taken to prepare the tiller for storage.
1. Clean the exterior of engine and the entire tiller
thoroughly. Lubricate the tiller as described in the
lubrication instructions.
2. We do not recommend the use of pressure washers
to clean your unit. They may cause damage to electric
components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine.
The use of pressure washers will result in shortened
life and reduce serviceability.
3. Refer to the engine manual for correct engine
storage instructions.
4. Wipe tines with oiled rag to prevent rust.
5. Store tiller in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in an
unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken
to rustproof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone,
coat the equipment and especially any springs, bearings,
and cables.
6
Trouble
Shooting
Guide
TroublePossible Cause (s)Corrective Action
Engine fails to startFuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
Throttle control lever not in correct
starting position (if so equipped).
Blocked fuel line.
Dirty air cleaner.
Choke not in ON position.
Spark plug wire disconnected.
Faulty spark plug.
Engine flooded.
Engine runs erraticUnit running on CHOKE.
Spark plug wire loose.
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Dirty air cleaner.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Engine overheatsEngine oil level low.
Dirty air cleaner.
Air flow restricted.
Carburetor not adjusted properly.
Tines do not
engage
Tines skip over
ground
Wheels do not
engage
Foreign object lodged in tines.
Tine clevis pin(s) missing.
Pulley and idler not in correct
adjustment.
Not shifting properly.
Control cable not adjusted properly.
Belt worn and/or stretched.
Improper rotation.Forward rotation should only be used on soil that has
Clevis pin missing.
Tiller is not being shifted properly.
Control cable not adjusted properly.
Belt worn and/or stretched.
Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will not last
over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Move throttle lever to start position.
Clean fuel line.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move switch to ON position.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Clean, adjust gap or replace.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Move choke lever to OFF position.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Fuel will
not last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used.
Clear vent.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.
Adjust carburetor as instructed in separate engine manual.
Dislodge foreign object.
Replace tine clevis pin(s).
Take unit to authorized service dealer.
Refer to Controls section of operator’s manual for
proper shifting procedures.
Adjust control cable (see assembly instructions).
Replace belt.
already been tilled, not on virgin soil.
Replace clevis pin.
Refer to Controls section of operator’s manual for
proper shifting procedures.
Adjust control cable (see assembly instructions).
Replace belt.
WARNING
Do not move gear
selection handle
with the wheels or
tines engaged. Make
certain the unit is
stopped completely
before changing the
gear selection. A
partial engagement
may be necessary
when engaging tines.
Do not push down
on handles so that
wheels are lifted off
the ground while
using tine drive, or
the tiller could move
backward and cause
personal injury.
Never attempt
to make any
adjustments while
the engine is
running, except
where specified in
operator’s manual.
15
1
2
3
4
5
6
2
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
50
54
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
2728
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
30
37
30
43
27
23
46
47
48
49
55
56
56
16
9
Ref. Part No.Part Description
1712-0442Acorn Lock Nut 1/4-20
2736-3020Flat Washer.271” I.D. x.630” O.D.
3720-0270A Reverse Handle Grip
4731-1600Handle Cover w/o throttle
5710-0779A Truss Mach. Scr. #10 x 1/2” Lg.
6720-0274Handle Grip
7712-3006Hex Nut 1/4-20 Gr.2
8726-0135Cap Speed Nut
9686-0083Clutch Handle Assembly
10720-0269Clutch Grip
11710-0641Hex Bolt 1/4-20 x 2.25” Lg. Gr.5
12731-1645A Clutch Handle Holder
13736-0140Flat Washer.385” I.D. x.62” O.D.
14686-0014A Reverse Handle Ass’y
15736-0264Flat Washer.344” I.D. x.62” O.D.
16649-04040 Handle Assembly Comp.
19749-1401Handle Brace
20736-0921Lock Washer 1/2
21710-3194Hex Bolt 1/2-20 Gr. 5
22786-0005Depth Bar
23714-0149B Cotter Pin
24712-04063 Hex Flange L-Nut 5/16-18 Thd. Gr.5
25786-0003Tail Piece Bracket (L.H.)
26786-0004Tail Piece Bracket (R.H.)
27711-0415Clevis Pin
Ref. Part No.Part Description
28710-0805Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5” Lg.
29710-0189Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3” Lg.
30736-0242Wash. Bell.340” I.D. x.872” O.D.
31711-1036A Spec. Hex Nut
32736-0119L-Wash. 5/16” I.D.
33710-3008Hex Bolt 5/16-18 Gr. 5
34786-0129Cable Guide Bracket
35710-0604A Hex Washer Screw 5/16-18 x.62” Lg.
36710-0602Hex Wash. Hd. TT-Tap Scr.
37738-0934Shdl. Bolt 5/16-18
38786-0138A Frame (R.H.)
39786-0139A Frame (L.H.)
40736-0171Lock Washer 7/16
41712-0240Jam Nut 7/16-20 Gr. 2
42710-0176Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.75” Lg.
43712-0429Hex Nylon Nut 5/16-18 Thd.
46686-0081A Wheel Hanger Bracket Assembly
47734-1781Wheel Ass’y 8” x 1.75”(Plastic)
734-1566Wheel Ass’y 8” x 1.75” (Steel)
48738-0929Shoulder Screw.496 I.D. x 1.445 O.D.
49750-0890Spacer
50710-1236Carr. Bolt 5/16-18 x 1
51736-0242Bell. Wash.34” I.D.
52720-0195Hand Knob
53750-0470Spacer
Illustrated
Parts List
Model 390
Series
To order replacement
parts, contact your
local Cub Cadet dealer;
or call our dealer
locator number at
1 (877) 282-8684;
or log onto
www.cubcadet.com
17
3
17
18
21
19
16
43
44
46
47
4
5
7
11
2
1
6
8
9
10
5
14
45
38
7
22
6
42
36
10
33
3
13
30
29
32
31
34
35
28
27
49
48
25
26
24
24
23
20
50
51
10
†††Honda Engine
52
54
53
18
Ref. Part No.Part Description
1712-0392Hex L-Stop nut 1/4-28
2736-3020Flat Wash.266” I.D. x.625” O.D.
3710-0599Hex Washer TT-Tap Scr. 1/4-20 x.5”
4711-0920Belt Cover Bolt
5712-04063 Hex Flange Top L-Nut 5/16-18
6710-0723Hex Hd. Scr. 3/8-16 x 1.25” Lg.
7756-0313Flat Idler Pulley 2.12” O.D.
8786-0149Idler Belt Keeper
9786-0144Idler Bracket
10712-0266Hex Cent. Jam Nut 3/8-16 Thd.
11786-0057Belt Cover
13786-0043A Tine Shield
14710-3008Hex Hd. Cap Scr. 5/16-18 x.75” Lg
16686-0091Chain Case Assembly Complete
17686-0106Outer Disc Plate Assembly
18714-0149B Internal Cotter Pin
19711-0415Clevis Pin
20642-0023Outer Tine Assembly L.H.
642-0024Outer Tine Assembly R.H.
21642-0003Inner Tine Assembly L.H.
642-0002Inner Tine Assembly R.H.
22746-0918Forward Clutch Cable
23746-0953Reverse Clutch Cable
24756-0585Fl-Pulley 6” Dia.
25750-0892Spacer.64” Dia. x 2.4” Lg.
Ref. Part No.Part Description
26748-0350Pulley Mounting Adapter
27736-0112Bell-Wash.525” I.D. x 1.5” O.D.
28712-3029Hex Jam Nut 1/2-20 Thd.
29732-0697Return Spring
30786-0040B Reverse Bracket
31736-0119Lock Washer 5/16
32710-0237Hex Bolt 5/16-24 x.625”
33756-0971Engine Inner Half Pulley
34756-0600Reverse Engine Pulley
35736-0452Bell Washer.396” I.D. x 1/14” O.D.
36710-1093Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.00”
38686-0013Reverse Arm Assembly
42786-0041Reverse Belt Keeper
43710-0502A Hex L-Wash. TT-Tap 3/8-16 x 1.25”
44786-0145A Engine Plate
45786-0053Tine Shield Bracket
46736-0171L-Wash. 7/16” I.D.
47712-0240Hex Nut 7/16-20 Thd.
48754-0428V-Belt (Forward) 1/2 x 41.9”
49754-0429V-Belt (Reverse) 3/8 x 45.68”
50738-0102Shld. Screw.498 x 1.445
51738-0930Shld. Screw.560 x.165
52710-0805Screw 5/16-18 x 1.50
53712-3010Hex Nut 5/16-18
54736-0242Bell Washer
9
Illustrated
Parts List
Model 390
Series
To order replacement
parts, contact your
local Cub Cadet dealer;
or call our dealer
locator number at
1 (877) 282-8684;
or log onto
www.cubcadet.com
19
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Cub Cadet LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its
possessions and territories.
“Cub Cadet” warrants this product against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of
original purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge,
any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship. This limited
warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained
in accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and
has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident,
improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage
because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any part, accessory or attachment not approved by
Cub Cadet for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void
your warranty as to any resulting damage.
Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.
Normal wear parts include, but are not limited to items such as: batteries,
belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow
thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer.
To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages, or contact
Cub Cadet LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call
1-877-282-8684, or log on to our Web site at www.cubcadet.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable
manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one year
warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade
sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, deck
adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use
or exposure.
d. Cub Cadet does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported
outside of the United States, its possessions and territories, except
those sold through Cub Cadet’s authorized channels of export distribution
e. Replacement parts that are not genuine Cub Cadet parts.
f. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service
dealer.
g. Transportation charges and service calls.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable
period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer
or retailer, with respect to any product, shall bind Cub Cadet. During
the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and
exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Cub Cadet shall not be liable
for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without
limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care
services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the
purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of the product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability for
loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others and their
property arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original
purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain
warranty coverage.