EarthQuake 14318 (CE), VECTOR 26750 Operator's Manual
Operator's Manual
GAS/OIL
RATIO
50:1
Original Operating Instructions
VECTOR™
Compact Tiller
Get parts online at
www.getearthquake.com
Product #’s:
26750
14318 (CE)
P/N: 13278
ECN: 9532
REV4: 01/16/13
© 2013 Ardisam, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your investment in quality. Thank you for purchasing the VECTOR™ Compact Tiller from Earthquake™. We have
worked to ensure that this tiller meets the highest standards for usability and durability. With proper care, your tiller will provide
many years of service.
Please read this entire manual before installation and use. Earthquake reserves the right to change, alter or improve the
product and this document at any time without prior notice.
CONTENTS
Registration ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
Warnings and Safety Precautions ...........................................................................................................................................................................................3-7
Unpacking and Assembly .........................................................................................................................................................................................................8-9
Features .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
Specications ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
Operation ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11-13
Maintenance and Storage .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13-15
Troubleshooting and Repair .......................................................................................................................................................................................................16
Parts Breakdown ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17-21
Warranty ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................22
Declaration of Conformity ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................23
FEDERAL EMISSION INFORMATION
Earthquake warrants to the retail purchaser, that this compact tiller was designed, built and equipped to conform at the time of
initial sale to all applicable regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
REGISTRATION AND SERVICE
Record the engine model number and serial number in the space provided
for easy reference when ordering parts or requesting technical support.
Excluding emissions-related warranty items, the warranty is valid only if the
completed registration is received by Ardisam within 30 days of purchase.
(SEE WARRANTY SECTION FOR MORE INFORMATION.) You can register
your warranty online by visiting www.getearthquake.com, or by mailing
it to: Ardisam, 1160 Eighth Avenue, Cumberland, WI 54829. You may also
call our customer service department at (800) 345-6007 Mondays through
Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
OWNERSHIP RECORDS
Owner’s Name:
Owner’s Address:
City: State/Province: Zip Code/Postal Code:
Model Number: Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Notes:
model and serial
number location
This manual may contain information for several models. Read and keep this manual for future reference. This manual contains
important information on SAFETY, ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE. The owner must be certain that all the product
information is included with the unit. This information includes the MANUAL, the REPLACEMENT PARTS and the WARRANTIES.
This information must be included to make sure state laws and other laws are followed. This manual should remain with the
engine even if it is resold.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-52
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
OPERATOR'S RESPONSIBILITY
Accurate assembly and safe and eective use of the machine is
the operator's responsibility.
• Readandfollowallsafetyinstructions.
• Carefullyfollowallassemblyinstructions.
• Maintainthemachineaccordingtodirectionsandschedule
included in this Earthquake operator’s manual.
• Ensurethatanyonewhousesthemachineisfamiliarwithall
controls and safety precautions.
SPECIAL SAFETY MESSAGES
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention to
potential safety concerns, machine damage as well as helpful
operating and servicing information. Please read all the information carefully to avoid injury and machine damage.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the manual
that may help the operator in the operation or service of the
machine.
This symbol points out important safety instructions which if not followed could endanger your
personal safety. Read and follow all instructions
in this manual before attempting to operate this
equipment.
DANGER
WARNING INDICATES A HAZARD WHICH, IF NOT
AVOIDED, WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY
AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
WARNING
WARNING INDICATES A HAZARD WHICH, IF NOT
AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS IN
JURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION
CAUTION INDICATES YOU CAN BE HURT OR YOUR
EQUIPMENT DAMAGED IF THE SAFETY INSTRUC
TIONS THAT FOLLOW THIS SIGNAL WORD ARE NOT
OBEYED.
IMPORTANT
INDICATES HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR PROPER AS
SEMBLY, OPERATION, OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR
EQUIPMENT.
BEFORE OPERATING ENGINE:
Please read this section carefully. Read entire operating and
maintenance instructions AND the instructions in the engine
manual that accompanies this product (if applicable). Failure
to follow instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Operate the machine according to the safety instructions
outlined here and inserted throughout the text. Anyone who
uses this machine must read the instructions and be familiar
with the controls.
WARNING
YOU MUST READ, UNDERSTAND AND COMPLY WITH
ALL SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS IN
THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SETUP AND
OPERATE YOUR MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY AND
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF
MACHINE CONTROL, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY TO
YOU AND/OR BYSTANDERS, AND RISK OF EQUIPMENT
AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. THE TRIANGLE IN THE TEXT
SIGNIFIES IMPORTANT CAUTIONS OR WARNINGS
WHICH MUST BE FOLLOWED.
WARNING
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS
CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, OR OTHER RE
PRODUCTIVE HARM.
DANGER
Intended Use / Foreseeable Misuse
IMPORTANT: This is a motorized rotary tiller that works the
soil by means of rotating tines. It is pedestrian-controlled, but
not self-propelled, with a gasoline-fueled internal combustion
engine to power the tines. It shall not be used for any other
purpose.
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3
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s). Be thoroughly familiar with the controls
and the proper use of the machine before starting.
• Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
• Familiarize yourself with all of the safety and operating
decals on this equipment and on any of its attachments or
accessories.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Only allow responsible individuals who are familiar with the
instructions to operate the machine. Do not allow children
to operate this machine. Do not allow adults to operate the
machine without proper instruction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be
used and remove all foreign objects. Your equipment can
propel small objects at high speed causing personal injury
or property damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such
as house windows, automobile, greenhouses, etc.
• Never wear sandals, sneakers, or open shoes, and never
operate the machine with bare feet.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught in
moving parts. Always keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing
away from any moving parts on engine and machine.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
when operating the machine to protect your eyes from
foreign objects which can be thrown from the unit. Always
wear a protective hearing device.
• Always wear work gloves and sturdy footwear. Wear
footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.
• Do not operate the machine without proper guards, covers,
hoods or other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and
installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved
by the manufacturer.
• Operate only in daylight or good articial light.
• Do not operate product when fatigued or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs or other medication which
can cause drowsiness or aect your ability to operate this
machine safely.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing; keep a rm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
• Watch for traffic when operating near, or when
crossing roads.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the
engine (motor), disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent
it from touching the spark plug. Check immediately for cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. If the noise or
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
IMPORTANT
THE RIGHT AND LEFT SIDES OF YOUR RO
TOTILLER ARE DETERMINED FROM THE
OPERATING POSITION AS YOU FACE THE
DIRECTION OF FORWARD TRAVEL.
ENGINE IS SHIPPED FROM FACTORY WITH
OUT OIL. YOU MUST ADD ENGINE OIL BE
FORE STARTING ENGINE.
vibrations of the machine increase, stop immediately and
perform an inspection.
• Never leave the machine unattended when the engine is
running. Remove the wire from the spark plug.
• Regularly inspect the machine. Make sure parts are not bent,
damaged or loose.
• Temperature of muer and nearby areas may exceed 150°
F (65° C). Allow muer and engine areas to cool before
touching. Never pick up or carry the machine while the
engine is running.
• Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline
engine-powered equipment should be avoided. Take
intermittent breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine
noise as well as heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in
the hands.
• Keep all screws, nuts and bolts tight.
• Do not transport the machine from one place to another
with the engine running.
• When moving the packaged machine, always do so with a
partner.
• Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this
machine.
PRODUCTSPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
• Do not till above underground utilities, including water
lines, gas lines, electric cables, or pipes. Do not operate the
tiller in soil with large rocks and foreign objects which can
damage the equipment.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove
the wire from the spark plug. Inspect the tiller for damage.
If damaged, repair before starting and operating the tiller.
• The tines of the tiller should not rotate when the engine
is idling. If they do rotate when engine is idling, contact
Earthquake customer service for instructions.
• If an object becomes lodged in the tines, turn engine o,
remove the wire from the spark plug and secure, allow to
cool before attempting to remove the foreign object.
• The tines can be very sharp. Use extreme caution when tilling
or replacing the tines.
L R
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-54
• Tines rotate when the tiller is engaged; tines rotate when the
drive safety control lever is pulled down. Releasing the drive
safety control lever to the neutral position stops the tines.
• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting to till
too deep at too fast of a rate.
• 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.
• Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine
unattended. Disengage all control levers, stop the engine,
wait for all moving parts to stop, and make certain guards
and shields are in place.
ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Warning Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Engines give o carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless,
poison gas. Carbon monoxide may be present even if you
do not smell or see any engine exhaust. Breathing carbon
monoxide can cause nausea, fainting or death, in addition
to drowsiness, dizziness and confusion. If you experience
any of these symptoms, seek fresh air and medical attention
immediately.
If your product comes with a separate engine manual, be
sure to read and follow all safety and warning precautions
outlined there, in addition to any in this manual.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Always start and run engine outdoors. Do not start or run
engine in an enclosed area, even if doors or windows are
open.
• Never try to ventilate engine exhaust indoors. Carbon
monoxide can reach dangerous levels very quickly.
• Never run engine outdoors where exhaust fumes may be
pulled into a building.
• Never run engine outdoors in a poorly ventilated area where
the exhaust fumes may be trapped and not easily taken
away. (Examples include: in a large hole or areas where hills
surround your working area.)
• Never run engine in an enclosed or partially enclosed area.
(Examples include: buildings that are enclosed on one or
more sides, under tents, car ports or basements.)
• Always run the engine with the exhaust and muer pointed
in the direction away from the operator.
• Never point the exhaust muer towards anyone. People
should always be many feet away from the operation of the
engine and its attachments.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine.
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
WARNING
ENGINES GIVE OFF CARBON MONOXIDE, AN ODOR
LESS, COLORLESS, POISON GAS. CARBON MONOXIDE
MAY BE PRESENT EVEN IF YOU DO NOT SMELL OR SEE
ANY ENGINE EXHAUST. BREATHING CARBON MON
OXIDE CAN CAUSE NAUSEA, FAINTING OR DEATH, IN
ADDITION TO DROWSINESS, DIZZINESS AND CONFU
SION.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS, SEEK
FRESH AIR AND MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.
CAUTION
HOT GASES ARE A NORMAL BYPRODUCT OF A FUNC
TIONING CATALYTIC CONVERTER. FOLLOW ALL SAFE
TY INSTRUCTIONS TO PREVENT BURNS AND FIRES.
DO NOT ALTER/MODIFY ENGINE:
NEVER ALTER OR MODIFY THE ENGINE FROM THE
FACTORY. SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH MAY OCCUR IF
ENGINE IS MODIFIED OR ALTERED.
WHEN WORKING ON OR REPLACING PARTS FOR THE
ENGINE OR PRODUCT, YOU MUST ALWAYS DISCON
NECT SPARK PLUG WIRE FROM THE SPARK PLUG AND
KEEP IT AWAY FROM THE SPARK PLUG.
Gasoline Fires and Handling Fuel Safely
Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are
ammable and vapors are explosive.
• When storing extra fuel be sure that it is in an appropriate
container and away from any re hazards.
• Prevent re and explosion caused by static electric discharge.
Use only nonmetal, portable fuel containers approved by the
Underwriter’s Laboratory (U.L.) or the American Society for
Testing & Materials (ASTM).
• Always ll fuel tank outside in a well ventilated area. Never
fill your fuel tank with fuel indoors. (Examples include:
basement, garage, barn, shed, house, porch, etc.) Never
ll tank near appliances with pilot lights, heaters, or other
ignition sources. If the fuel has to be drained, this should be
done outdoors with the proper equipment. The drained fuel
should be stored in a container specically designed for fuel
storage or it should be disposed of carefully.
• Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Stop engine and allow to cool before lling.
• Never drain fuel from engine in an enclosed area.
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5
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
• Always wipe up excess (spilled) fuel from engine before
starting. Clean up spilled fuel immediately. If fuel is spilled,
do not start the engine but move product and fuel container
from area. Clean up spilled fuel and allow to evaporate and
dry after wiping and before starting.
• Allow fuel fumes/vapors to escape from the area before
starting engine.
• Test the fuel cap for proper installation before starting and
using engine.
• Always run the engine with fuel cap properly installed on
the engine.
• Never smoke while refilling engine fuel tank or while
operating machine.
• Do not store engine with fuel in fuel tank indoors. Fuel and
fuel vapors are highly explosive.
• Never pour fuel from engine fuel tank.
• Never siphon fuel by mouth to drain fuel tank.
• Always have an adult fill the fuel tank and never allow
children to ll the engine.
• Never allow an adult or anyone under the inuence of drugs
or alcohol to ll engine.
• When storing gasoline or equipment with fuel in the tank,
store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or other
appliances that have a pilot light or other ignition source
because they can ignite gasoline vapors.
BURNS AND FIRES
The muer, muer guard and other parts of the engine become extremely hot during the operation of the engine. These
parts remain extremely hot after the engine has stopped.
Prevention of Burns and Fires
• Neverremovethemuerguardfromtheengine.
• Nevertouchthemuer guard because it isextremelyhot
and will cause severe burns.
• Nevertouch partsof theengine that become hotafter
operation.
• Alwayskeepmaterialsand debrisawayfrommuerguard
and other hot parts of the engine to avoid res.
• Thisengineisdesignedtooperateusingacatalyticconverter
which contributes to the engine’s compliance with the EPA.
CHILDREN AND BYSTANDERS
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children and/or bystanders. Never assume that
others will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially
small children and pets. Keep children under the watchful
care of a responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine o if children enter the area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down
for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees,
or other objects that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
• Always stop the engine whenever you leave the equipment,
before cleaning, repairing or inspecting the unit. Engine should
be turned o and cool, spark plug wire must be removed from
spark plug before any repairs or adjustments are attempted.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor)
running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent accidental starting. Remove
the ignition key if equipped with an electric start.
• Always wear eye protection when you make adjustments or
repairs.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight and keep equipment in good
condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
• When servicing or repairing the machine, do not tip the machine
over or up unless specically instructed to do so in this manual.
Service and repair procedures can be done with the machine
in an upright position. Some procedures will be easier if the
machine is lifted on a raised platform or working surface.
• To reduce re hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow
machine to cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Clean and replace safety and instruction decals as necessary.
• To guard against engine over-heating, always have engine
debris lter mounted and clean.
• Inspect machine before storage. When not in use, disconnect
spark plug lead and store indoors in a dry place locked or
otherwise inaccessible to children.
• Use only original equipment parts from Earthquake,
including all nuts and bolts.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-56
Operator's Manual
WARNING
AVOID SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH
• Read operator’s manual(s).
• Know the location and function of all controls.
• Keep all shields and guards in place
and working while running.
• Never operate tiller when children are around.
• Dress appropriately -- wear sturdy footwear.
• Carefully inspect area to be tilled --
remove large rocks and other foreign objects.
• Do NOT till above underground electric,
water, gas, or other utility lines and pipes.
• STOP THE ENGINE AND DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE
before removing debris or servicing unit.
• When leaving the operating position for any reason:
-- shut o the engine.
-- wait for all moving parts to stop.
DANGER
OPERATION
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
SAFETY DECALS
This rototiller unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect from
an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manufacturing.
Although reading this manual and the safety instructions it contains will provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to
operated this equipment safely and eectively, we have placed several safety labels on the tiller to remind you of this important
information while you are operating the unit.
These important safety labels are illustrated below, and are shown here to help familiarize you with the location and content
of the safety messages you will see as you perform normal tilling operations. Please review these labels now. If you have any
questions regarding their meaning or how to comply with these instructions, reread the complete safety instruction text on
the preceding pages. For additional questions European customers may contact their local dealer and US customers must call
Earthquake customer service.
Should any of the safety labels become unreadable because of being worn, faded, or otherwise damaged during the use of your
tiller, please use the part number information provided to order a replacement label. European customers can order from their
local dealer and US customers can order by calling Earthquake customer service. These safety labels are easily applied, and will
act as a constant visual reminder to you, and others who may use the equipment. Follow the safety instructions necessary for
safe, eective operation of your rototiller.
AVOID INJURY FROM
ROTATING TINES!
Keep hands, feet and
clothing away.
• Tines rotate when tiller
is engaged.
• Tines rotate when drive
control lever is pulled back.
• Releasing the drive control
lever to neutral stops
the tines.
REFER TO OPERATOR’S MANUAL FOR
DETAILED OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
TO START:
1. Release drive control lever to neutral position.
2. Turn ON/OFF switch to ON position.
3. Move throttle control lever to fast position on engine.
4. Move choke lever to choke position on engine.
5. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
6. Move choke lever back to run position.
18088
Part No. 18088
TINES DANGER/OPERATION
Tine Shield Decal
Part No. 14287
TINE SPEED
Tine Decal
Part No. 14370
TINE SPEED
Tine Decal
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Part No. 18091
WARNING
Tine Shield Decal
Part No. LBL3100D
CLUTCH ENGAGE
Handlebar Decal
Part No. 14292
BELT ENGAGE ICONS
Control Lever Decal
Part No. 14286
NAMEPLATE DECAL
Part No. 14293
CE SAFETY WARNINGS
INCLUDING SOUND
Part No. LBL516C
BELT AND PULLEY WARNING
Belt Guard Decal
7
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLING YOUR TILLER
1. Open top of carton and remove handlebar assembly.
2.
Parts bag for VECTOR tiller contains:
2- Bolts M8 x 1.25 x 20 Hex Head
6- Bolts M8 x 1.25 x 25 Hex Head
6- Washers M8 8.4mm x 24mm x 2.2mm
6- Nuts M8 x 1.25
2- Middle Handlebar Straps
2- Hand Knobs
6- Bolts M6 x 1.0 x 12
6- Nylock Nuts M6 x 1.0
3. Remove machine from carton
4. Assemble the upper handlebar onto the lower handlebar
loop. Use the two (2) middle handlebar straps to connect the
upper handlebar to the lower handlebar loop. Put the M8 x
25 bolts through the six lower bolt holes from the outside in.
Put on six (6) washers and tighten with six (6) M8 nuts on the
six (6) bolts. Tighten the two (2) M8 hand knobs on the two
(2) M8 x 20 bolts in the upper most hole on each side of the
handlebar. (SEE FIGURES 1 AND 2) The two (2) upper bolts
and hand knobs can be used in one of three hole positions
for handlebar height adjustability. SEE FIGURE 3
Operator's Manual
VECTOR™ Compact Tiller
IMPORTANT
THE RIGHT AND LEFT SIDES OF YOUR RO
TOTILLER ARE DETERMINED FROM THE
OPERATING POSITION AS YOU FACE THE
DIRECTION OF FORWARD TRAVEL.
ENGINE IS SHIPPED FROM FACTORY WITH
OUT OIL. YOU MUST ADD ENGINE OIL BE
FORE STARTING ENGINE.
L R
CAUTION
DO NOT TRY TO LIFT THE ROTOTILLER FROM THE
CARTON.
upper handlebar
M8 x 20 bolts
M8 x 25 bolts
lower
handlebar loop
M8 hand
knobs
handlebar strap
M8 x 25 bolts
lower handlebar loop
washers
M8 nuts
FIGURE 1
Lowest Position
Highest Position
FIGURE 2
Middle Position
FIGURE 3
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