HONDA FG110 User Manual

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your selection of a Honda FG110 mini-tiller! We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest tillers on the market.
We want to help you get the best results from your new tiller and to operate it safely. This manual contains the information on how to do that; please read it carefully.
When your tiller needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that an authorized Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda tillers and is supported by the parts and service divisions of American Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.
Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the tiller and should remain with the tiller if resold.
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.
OWNER’S MANUAL
FG110
B WARNING: B

SAFETY MESSAGES

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. We have provided important safety messages in this manual and on the tiller. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Please read these messages carefully.
Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining a mini-tiller. You must use your own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms:
Safety Labels – on the tiller.
Instructions – how to use this tiller correctly and safely.
Safety Messages – preceded by a safety alert A symbol and one
of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean:
B DANGER
B WARNING
B CAUTION
Each message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen, and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.
Damage Prevention Messages – You will also see other important messages that are preceded by the word NOTICE. This word means:
NOTICE
© 2004–2008 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.—All Rights Reserved
31V25033 00X31-V25-0330
Your tiller or other property can be damaged if you don’t follow instructions.
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.
POM31V25033
K1
EM5
IPC.XXX.2008.11
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ............................... 1
SAFETY MESSAGES........................1
TILLER SAFETY................................2
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION............................. 2
ATTACHMENTS AND
MODIFICATIONS .........................2
SAFETY LABEL LOCATION ........3
SETTING UP YOUR NEW TILLER ...3
CONTROL LOCATIONS ...................4
BEFORE OPERATION...................... 4
ARE YOU READY TO OPERATE
THE TILLER? ...............................4
IS YOUR WORKING AREA
READY? .......................................4
IS YOUR TILLER READY TO GO? ..4
OPERATION......................................5
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS........5
STARTING THE ENGINE............. 6
STOPPING THE ENGINE ............7
TILLER OPERATION ...................7
SERVICING YOUR TILLER ..............8
MAINTENANCE SAFETY............. 8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ....... 8
ENGINE OIL .................................9
AIR FILTER ................................10
SPARK PLUG.............................11
SPARK ARRESTER (OPTIONAL
EQUIPMENT) .............................11
REFUELING ............................... 12
TRANSMISSION LUBRICATION............14
TRANSPORTING ............................ 15
STORAGE ....................................... 15
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED
PROBLEMS..................................... 17
TECHNICAL INFORMATION .......... 17
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATIONS. 17 CARBURETOR MODIFICATION FOR HIGH
ALTITUDE OPERATION ............ 17
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM 18
AIR INDEX.................................. 18
SPECIFICATIONS...................... 19
CONSUMER INFORMATION .........20
REPLACEMENT PARTS, OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT, AND
SERVICE ITEMS........................ 20
DEALER LOCATOR
INFORMATION........................... 20
CUSTOMER SERVICE
INFORMATION........................... 20
DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED
WARRANTY ............................... 21
ACCESSORIES, REPLACEMENT PARTS, AND
APPAREL WARRANTY.............. 21
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
WARRANTY ............................... 22
1

TILLER SAFETY

This chapter explains what you need to know to operate your tiller safely.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Honda Tiller Usage
Honda tillers are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions and intended use.
Honda tillers are intended to be used by an experienced, trained operator who is familiar with the use of power equipment. Do not allow a child or an inexperienced, untrained operator to use this tiller. Operating this equipment requires special effort on your part to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Read and understand this owner’s manual.
Avoid Rotating Tines
The rotating tines can cause injury. Keep away from the tine shield whenever the engine is running. If you need to adjust the tines or work around the tines for any reason, always stop the engine. Disconnect the spark plug cap if you need to clean or handle the tines.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS

As an employer, you have special responsibilities to the people who work for you.
Before you ask anyone to operate this tiller, you need to determine whether the person is old enough, large enough, and strong enough to safely handle and control the tiller.
If you decide the person is, make sure the employee reads and understands all instructions and warnings in this manual, and on the labels before operating the tiller.
Allow adequate time for hands-on training by a qualified instructor, and personally supervise practice sessions until you feel sure the employee is ready to operate the tiller.
Also be sure employees wear proper clothing and have eye protection and any other gear that may be required by local ordinances or your insurance company.
Remember, too, that you are responsible for keeping the tiller properly maintained and in safe operating condition.
Your commitment to safety on the job can help prevent injuries or property damage and result in longer and more productive years of service.
Clear Tilling Area
The tiller tines can throw rocks and other objects with enough force to cause injury. Before tilling, carefully inspect the area and remove all large debris.
Keep Shields in Place
Guards and shields are designed to protect you from being hit by thrown objects. They also help protect you from hot engine parts and moving components. For your safety and the safety of others, keep all guards and shields in place when operating the tiller.
Refuel with Care
Gasoline is extremely flammable and gasoline vapor can explode. Refuel only outdoors, in a well-ventilated area, with the engine off. Never smoke near gasoline, and keep other flames and sparks away. Always store gasoline in an approved container.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing will reduce your risk of injury. Long pants and eye protection reduce the risk of injuries from thrown objects. Sturdy shoes with aggressive soles will help protect your feet and give you better traction on slopes or uneven ground. Clothing worn by the operator should be close-fitting. Loose clothing should not be permitted because it may get caught in moving parts. Tie up or restrain long hair.
Turn Engine Off When Not Tilling
If you need to leave the tiller for any reason, even just to inspect the area ahead, always stop the engine.

ATTACHMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS

Do not make any modifications to your tiller. Modifying your tiller or installing non-Honda attachments can make your tiller unsafe.
If you need attachments for your tiller, use only Honda Genuine attachments. These products have been designed for your tiller.
Non-Honda attachments are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket attachments may fit on your tiller, they may not meet factory specifications and could make your tiller unsafe.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS

YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY IS VERY IMPORTANT to Honda. Read this message if you decide to permit your child to operate this tiller. Tillers are tools, not toys. As with any equipment, bad judgements can result in serious injuries. You can prevent injuries or property damage by making good decisions about if, when, and how your child operates this equipment.
The first question you’ll need to ask is whether your child is capable of operating this tiller safely. Remember, young people vary widely, and AGE IS NOT THE ONLY FACTOR. Physically, a child must be LARGE ENOUGH AND STRONG ENOUGH to easily start the tiller and control its direction. The child also needs enough size, strength, and coordination to comfortably reach and operate the controls.
Another, tougher question you need to ask is if your child has enough MATURITY AND RESPONSIBILITY to safely operate this tiller. Does the young person think through problems and come to logical solutions? Anyone who takes unnecessary risks and does not obey rules should not operate this tiller.
If you decide that your child can handle the tiller safely, carefully read the owner’s manual with him or her. Make sure you both understand all instructions and safety information. Also, be sure your child wears sturdy shoes and other protective clothing when operating or handling the tiller.
SUPERVISION is also very important. Walk with your child during the first few minutes of tilling. Even after he or she has become confident with the tiller, do not let the child use the tiller without good adult supervision. An adult should also be present during refueling and maintenance. In fact, it’s up to the adult owner to make sure the tiller is properly maintained and kept in safe operating condition.
By always placing safety first, your child will acquire useful skills and a sense of accomplishment. And you’ll both get the best results from your tiller.
2

SAFETY LABEL LOCATION

The label shown here contains important safety information. Please read it carefully. This label is considered a permanent part of your tiller. If the label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your authorized Honda tiller dealer for a replacement.

Engine Oil

The tiller is shipped WITHOUT OIL in the engine.
All Honda engines are run at the factory prior to packaging. Most of the oil is removed prior to shipment; however, some oil remains in the engine. The amount of oil left in the engine varies.
1. Working on a level surface, tip the tiller on its carrying handlebar as shown.
2. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.
3. Slowly add the recommended oil (included in the box) to the bottom edge of the oil filler hole. Do not overfill, as the engine oil tank capacity is small.
CARRYING HANDLEBAR
OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK
OIL FILLER HOLE

SETTING UP YOUR NEW TILLER

Unpacking

1. Carefully remove the tiller from the carton.
2. Unfold the tiller upper handle to the operating position as shown. Be careful not to crimp or pinch the engine switch wires and throttle cable.
3. Tighten the handlebar knobs to secure the handle in the correct operating position.
HANDLEBAR KNOBS
NOTICE
Running the engine with too little or too much oil can cause engine damage. This type of damage is not covered by the
DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY (page 21).
4. Screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick securely.

Fuel

Refer to page 12.

Before Using Your Tiller

Before using the tiller, all tiller operators must read the following chapters and sections:
TILLER SAFETY (see page 2).
CONTROL LOCATIONS (see page 4).
BEFORE OPERATION (see page 4).
OPERATION (see page 5).
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (see page 8).

Please Register Your Tiller

If your dealer did not collect registration information from you, please take a few minutes and register your purchase with Honda. This allows us to contact you with any important updates regarding your tiller. Your information will remain confidential. It will not be released to any other company or organization. Please note registration is not required to obtain warranty service.
You can register by completing and mailing the included registration card, or go online to www.hondapowerequipment.com and click on Product Registration.
3

CONTROL LOCATIONS BEFORE OPERATION

ENGINE SWITCH (P. 6)
THROTTLE LEVER (P. 7)
HANDLEBAR KNOB (2) (P. 3)
TRANSPORT WHEELS (P. 6)
PRIMING BULB (P. 6)
FUEL CAP (P. 12)
CHOKE LEVER (P. 6)
STARTER GRIP
ENGINE OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK ENGINE OIL DRAIN (P. 9)
CARRYING HANDLE
TINE SHIELD

ARE YOU READY TO OPERATE THE TILLER?

Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk of injury.
Read and understand this manual. Know what the controls do and how to operate them.
Familiarize yourself with the tiller and its operation before you begin using it. Know how to quickly shut off the engine in case of an emergency.
You must be alert and in good physical condition to operate the tiller. Do not operate the tiller if you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, medication, or any substance that might impair your vision, dexterity, or judgment.
If you have any physical problem that may be aggravated by strenuous work, consult your physician before operating the tiller.
Wearing protective clothing will reduce your risk of injury. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.
Wear gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants made of heavy material. Clothing should fit closely but allow freedom of movement, and should have no strings, straps, etc. that could catch on brush or the tiller. Keep clothing fastened.
Wear sturdy work boots with good toe protection and nonslip soles.

IS YOUR WORKING AREA READY?

Objects thrown by the tiller can cause serious injury. Before operating the tiller, carefully inspect the area, and remove all objects that could be thrown by, or entangled in, the tilling attachment, such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, or string.
Never operate the tiller without good visibility or light.
Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. Keep all children, bystanders, and pets at least 50 feet (15 meters) away from where the tiller is being operated.
If anyone approaches you while you are operating the tiller, release the throttle lever and stop the engine

IS YOUR TILLER READY TO GO?

AIR CLEANER (P. 10)
TILLING TINES (P. 5)
For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your equipment, it is very important to take a few moments before you operate the tiller to check its condition. Be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your servicing dealer correct it, before you operate the tiller.
B WARNING
Improperly maintaining this tiller, or failing to correct a problem before operation, could cause a malfunction in which you could be seriously injured.
Always perform a pre-operation inspection before each operation, and correct any problem.
4
Safety Inspection
• Look around the engine for signs of oil or gasoline leaks. Wipe up any spills before starting the engine.
• Replace any damaged parts.
• Check that all fasteners are in place and secure. Tighten as necessary.
Tiller Tine Inspection
• Look for signs of damage to the tilling tines (or any accessory installed). Replace any tiller tines and parts that are worn out, bent, cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way.
• When using an accessory, make sure it is properly installed and securely fastened (see attachment installation instructions).
• Check that the debris shield is securely installed and in good condition.
Maintenance Inspection
• Check the oil level (page 9). Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
• Check the air filter (page 10). A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine and tiller performance.
• Check throttle operation (page 12). The throttle must operate smoothly for good throttle control.
• Check the fuel level (page 12). Starting with a full tank will help to eliminate or reduce operating interruptions for refueling.

Tine Installation

Make sure the tines are installed properly with the blades angled inward and the tine spacers facing each other. The leading edge of each blade is slanted.
TINE SPACERS
FORWARD

OPERATION

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS

Before operating the tiller for the first time, please review
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (page 2) and BEFORE OPERATION (page 4).
Even if you have operated other tillers, take time to become familiar with the operation of this tiller’s controls and handling.
For your safety, do not start or operate the engine in an enclosed area, such as a garage. Your engine’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause illness or death.
If the tiller starts to shake or vibrate, stop the engine immediately. After the tiller tines have completely stopped, inspect them to determine the cause of the vibration. Sudden vibration is a sign of a hazardous problem, such as a loose or damaged tilling tines (or tiller attachment), hidden objects in the soil, or the ground that is too hard to till. Do not operate the tiller until the problem is corrected.
Prolonged exposure to vibration may cause Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Symptoms include loss of skin color in the hands and numbness or a painful tingling sensation in the fingers, hands, and arms. Regular users of any power equipment may feel the numbness or pain spontaneously, at any time, not just after using the equipment. If any of these symptoms occur, see a physician immediately.

Drag Bar Installation

1. Make sure the engine switch is in the OFF position before installing the drag bar.
2. Remove the lock pin and the 6 x 25 mm clevis pin.
3. Install the drag bar angled to the rear. Adjust the height to one of 4 height positions and insert the 6 x 25 mm clevis pin. Secure with the lock pin.
CLEVIS PIN, 6 x 25 mm
LOCK PIN
DRAG BAR
See TILLER OPERATION (page 7) for additional information.
When your tilling job is completed, reinstall the transport wheels onto the drag bar.
5

Moving the Tiller

The tiller has wheels to allow easy maneuvering to and from the work area.
Do not transport the tiller with the engine running.

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Move the engine switch to the ON position.
2. To start a cold engine, move the choke lever up to the CLOSED (E) position.
To restart a warm engine, leave the choke lever down in the OPEN position.
ENG. SW.
ON
OFF OFF
DRAG BAR
CLIP
LOCKING CLEVIS PIN
WHEEL MOUNT
Install the wheels by inserting the wheel mount onto the drag bar. Secure with the locking clevis pin.
CHOKE LEVER (UP to close)
STARTER GRIP
PRIMING BULB
FUEL RETURN TUBE (clear plastic)
CARRYING HANDLE
3. To start a cold engine, or after refueling an engine that has run out of fuel, press the priming bulb repeatedly until fuel can be seen in the clear-plastic fuel-return tube.
To restart a warm engine, it is not necessary to press the priming bulb.
4. Place your left hand on the carrying handle and hold it firmly. Make sure your feet are away from the tiller tines. With your right hand, pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently.
TRANSPORT POSITION
STORAGE POSITION
Before tilling, remove the wheels from the drag bar.
6
5. If the choke lever was moved to the CLOSED (E) position, gradually move it to the OPEN position as the engine warms up.
Allow the engine to warm up for a few moments after starting a cold engine.
The tiller tines should not rotate with the engine idling. If there is rotation at idle, adjust the idle speed correctly before using the tiller (page 12).

STOPPING THE ENGINE

1. Release the throttle lever.
2. Move the engine switch to the OFF position.
THROTTLE LEVER
ENG. SW.
ON
OFF OFF

TILLER OPERATION

The tiller is designed to operate either with the drag bar installed for depth control in the forward direction or with the drag bar removed for cultivating.
Cultivating Without the Drag Bar
Cultivating can be accomplished by removing the drag bar and repeatedly moving the tiller in a forward/reverse direction. This allows the tines to dig in both directions.
Be aware that the tiller can be difficult to control without the drag bar installed.
Narrow Cultivating
The two outer tines can be removed to give you a narrower cultivating width. This width is approximately 5 inches. This gives you the ability to get between very closely spaced plants.
Tilling With the Drag Bar Installed
1. Install the drag bar and set the tilling depth by moving the drag bar up or down into one of 4 height positions (page 5).
The ideal height of the drag bar will depend on the type of soil being tilled and soil conditions at the time of tilling. In general, however, the drag bar should be adjusted so that the tiller is tilted slightly backward.
2. Start the engine (page 6).
E
N
O
3. Tilt the tiller back until the tines are off the ground. Squeeze the throttle lever to full speed position (lever tight against the grip).
4. Lower the front of the tiller until the tines begin to dig into the ground.
5. Lower the handle slightly so the front of the tiller is raised about 6 - 8°. To get the maximum advantage from the tiller, hold the tiller at this angle while you are tilling the ground.
HANDLEBARS
G
F
.
O
F
S
N
W
.
O
F
F
6
THROTTLE LEVER
LOCK PIN
To remove the two outer tines, pull the lock pin out of the hole in the end of the tine shaft. Slide the outside tine set off the tine shaft. Secure the inner set of tines onto the tine shaft by placing the lock pins in the inside set of lock pin holes.
THROTTLE LEVER
6 - 8°
DRAG BAR
Operating Tips
• If the tiller tends to move forward rapidly, push down on the
handlebars to allow the drag bar to penetrate the soil and slow the forward motion of the tiller. Continue to press down until the tiller tines have dug to a desired depth that allows easy tiller handling.
• If the tines dig in but the tiller will not move forward, ease up on the
handlebars and move the handlebars from side-to-side. If the tiller still digs in, but will not move forward, raise the drag bar up one hole.
• When turning, push down on the handlebars to bring the tiller’s
weight to the rear; this will make turning easier.
7

SERVICING YOUR TILLER

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Proper maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution.
B WARNING
Improper maintenance, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.
To help you properly care for your tiller, the following pages include a maintenance schedule, routine inspection procedures, and simple maintenance procedures using basic hand tools. Other service tasks that are more difficult, or require special tools, are best handled by professionals and are normally performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.
The maintenance schedule applies to normal operating conditions. If you operate your tiller under severe conditions, such as sustained high-load or high-temperature operation, or use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, consult your servicing dealer for recommendations applicable to your individual needs and use.
Remember that an authorized Honda servicing dealer knows your tiller best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it.
To ensure the best quality and reliability, use only new, Honda Genuine parts or their equivalents for repair and replacement.
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual, using parts that are “certified” to EPA standards.

MAINTENANCE SAFETY

Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you
should perform a given task.
B WARNING
Interval
Before each use
First month or 10 hours
Every month or 10 hours
Every 3 months or 25 hours
Every 6 months or 50 hours
Every year or 100 hours
Every 2 years or after each 300 hours
1. For professional commercial use, log hours of operation to determine proper maintenance intervals.
2. Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
3. These items should be serviced by an authorized Honda servicing dealer, unless you have the proper tools and are mechanically proficient.
Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in non-warrantable failures.
1
Check the engine oil level (page 9) Check the air filter (page 10) Check throttle cable (page 12) Check the nuts and bolts for tightness
Change the engine oil (page 9)
Clean the air filter
Check the transmission grease (page 14)
Change the engine oil 2 (page 9) Check the cooling fins (page 11) Check the clutch shoes
Change the engine oil 2 (page 9) Check the spark plug (page 11) Clean the spark arrester (optional) (page 11) Clean the fuel tank and filter (page 13)
Replace the spark plug (page 11) Adjust the valve clearance Adjust the idle speed (page 12) Clean the combustion chamber Check the fuel tubes (page 13)
Item
2
(page 10)
3
3
3
3
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.
Safety Precautions
• Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs. This will eliminate several potential hazards:
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.
Operate outdoors away from open windows or doors.
Burns from hot parts.
Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
Injury from moving parts.
Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.
• Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.
• To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline. Use only a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts.
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