Honda Automobiles FG110 User Manual
OWNER'S MANUAL
Mini-Tiller
FG110
© 2004-2006 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. All Rights Reserved
See page 27 for instructions on
assembling your FG110 Mini-Tiller.
WARNING:
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it 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.
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.
As you read this manual, you will find information preceded by a symbol. That information is intended
to help you avoid damage to your tiller, other property, or the environment.
We suggest you read the Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 39) and Emission Control System Warranty
(page 41) to fully understand coverage and your responsibilities of ownership.
When your tiller needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda servicing dealer is specially trained
in servicing Honda tillers. Your Honda servicing dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction, and will be pleased to
answer your questions and concerns.
Left and right sides of the unit are determined from the operator’s position, standing behind the tiller handlebars,
facing the direction of forward travel.
Best Wishes,
Power Equipment Division
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
NOTICE
1
A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY
Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And using this tiller is an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information
on labels in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.
Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining
a tiller. You must use your own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
• Safety Labels – on the tiller.
• Safety Messages – preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three words:
DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
DANGER
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
WARNING
CAUTION
• Safety Headings—such as IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
• Safety Section—such as TILLER SAFETY.
• Instructions—how to use this tiller correctly and safely.
This entire book is filled with important safety information—please read it carefully.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN BE HURT if you don't follow instructions.
2
CONTENTS
TILLER SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . 4
ATTACHMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . 5
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS . . . . . . 5
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS . . . . . . . . . 5
SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS . . . . . . . 7
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
BEFORE OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
ARE YOU READY TO OPERATE THE TILLER? . 10
IS YOUR WORKING AREA READY? . . . . . . . . . . 11
OPERATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . 12
TILLER OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
SERVICING YOUR TILLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . 16
MAINTENANCE SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
ENGINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
FUEL SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TRANSMISSION LUBRICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
OXYGENATED FUELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM INFORMATION. .
35
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
TUNEUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
CONSUMER INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY . . . 41
INDEX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
QUICK REFERENCE . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover
ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER ASSEMBLY. . . 27
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . 27
UNPACKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
ADDING OIL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
BEFORE OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
STORAGE PREPARATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
TRANSPORTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
BEFORE LOADING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
LOADING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS . . 32
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION . . . . . 33
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
CARBURETOR MODIFICATIONS FOR HIGH
ALTITUDE OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
3
TILLER SAFETY
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Most accidents can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the tiller. The most common
hazards, according to accident statistics, are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and
others.
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.
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.
4
TILLER SAFETY
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 genuine Honda attachments. These products have been designed
for your tiller. They are covered by the Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Apparel Warranty on page 40.
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 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 accidents and result in longer and more productive years of
service.
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 accidents 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.
5
TILLER SAFETY
SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS
The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are
considered permanent parts of your Honda tiller. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an
authorized Honda servicing dealer for a replacement.
DANGER
CONTACT WITH ROTATING TINES
WILL CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
KEEP HANDS, FEET, AND CLOTHING
AWAY WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY
• READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION.
• KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTIONS OF ALL CONTROLS.
• KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES AND SHIELDS IN PLACE AND WORKING.
• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR UNINSTRUCTED ADULTS TO OPERATE MACHINE.
• SHUT OFF ENGINE BEFORE MANUALLY UNCLOGGING TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.
• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY FROM MACHINE.
• USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN REVERSING OR PULLING THE MACHINE TOWARDS YOU.
• GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE AND EXPLOSIVE. STOP ENGINE, AVOID HEAT, SPARKS, AND
OPEN FLAME WHEN REFUELING.
6
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS
ENGINE
SWITCH
THROTTLE LEVER
HANDLEBAR
KNOBS
CHOKE LEVER
PRIMING BULB
AIR CLEANER
TRANSPORT WHEELS
OR DRAG BAR
(DRAG BAR NOT
SHOWN)
FUEL CAP
RECOIL
STARTER GRIP
CARRYING HANDLE
ENGINE OIL
FILLER CAP/
ENGINE OIL
DRAIN
TINE
SHIELD
TILLING TINES
7
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS
Throttle Lever
The throttle lever controls engine speed and tiller tine
rotation.
Pulling the throttle lever towards the grip increases the
engine speed which causes the tines to turn.
Releasing the throttle lever reduces engine speed and
stops the tiller tines from turning.
The tiller will have the greatest tilling force at maximum
engine speed. At idle, the tilling tines should stop
rotating.
Engine Switch
The engine switch controls the ignition system.
The engine switch must be in the ON position for the
engine to start and run. Moving the engine switch to
the OFF position stops the engine.
Choke Lever
The choke lever opens and closes the choke valve in
the carburetor.
ENGINE SWITCH
E
N
O
G
F
.
O
F
S
N
W
.
O
F
F
6
THROTTLE LEVER
The CLOSED () position (choke lever up) enriches
the fuel mixture for starting a cold engine. The OPEN
position (choke lever down) provides the correct fuel
mixture for operation after starting, and for restarting a
warm engine.
Priming Bulb
Pressing the priming bulb pumps fuel from the fuel
tank to the carburetor. This procedure is necessary for
starting a cold engine and after refueling an engine
that has run out of fuel.
To ensure that fuel has reached the carburetor, press
the priming bulb repeatedly until fuel can be seen in
the clear plastic fuel-return tube.
CHOKE
LEVER
PRIMING
BULB
FUEL-RETURN
TUBE
(CLEAR
PLASTIC)
8
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT
Transport Wheels
The transport wheels are used to move the tiller
around. Before tilling, the transport wheels must be
removed and the drag bar installed in their place.
Carrying Handle
Hold the carrying handle when starting the engine.
The carrying handle can be used to load/unload the
tiller, and to assist in certain engine maintenance
procedures.
Recoil Starter Grip
Pulling the starter grip operates the recoil starter to
crank the engine for starting.
Drag Bar
TRANSPOR T
WHEELS
CARRYING
HANDLE
RECOIL
STARTER
GRIP
The drag bar is used to control the forward action of
the turning tiller tines. The drag bar can be adjusted to
control the tilling depth of the tines.
Narrow Cultivating
The two outer tines can be removed to give you a
narrower cultivating width. This gives you the ability to
get between very closely spaced plants.
DRAG BAR
9
BEFORE OPERATION
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.
Knowledge
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 to use it. Know what to do in case of
emergencies.
Physical and Mental Readiness
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.
Protective Clothing
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.
Hand and Body Protection
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.
Foot Protection
Wear sturdy work boots with good toe protection and nonslip soles.
10
BEFORE OPERATION
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?
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.
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.
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.
• Make sure the tiller accessory 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 (see page 18). Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
• Check the air filter (see page 19). A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine and tiller
performance.
• Check throttle operation (see page 23). The throttle must operate smoothly for good throttle control.
• Check the fuel level (see page 24). Starting with a full tank will help to eliminate or reduce operating interruptions
for refueling.
11
OPERATION
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
Before operating the tiller for the first time, please review the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION on page 4 and
BEFORE OPERATION chapter starting on page 10.
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, avoid starting or operating 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 vibration syndrome (Raynaud’s disease). 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.
Moving the Tiller
Do not move the tiller with the engine running.
The tiller has transport wheels to allow easy
maneuvering to and from the work area. Install the
transport wheels by inserting the wheel bar up through
the transmission housing.
Before tilling, remove the transport wheels and install the
drag bar.
Drag Bar Installation
1. Make sure the engine is OFF before installing the
drag bar.
2. Remove the lock pin and the 6 x 25 mm clevis pin.
3. Remove the wheel assembly.
4. Install the drag bar with the pointed edge of the drag
bar towards the tiller tines using the 6 x 25 mm clevis
pin and lock pin.
5. When your tilling job is completed, reinstall the
transport wheels in the reverse order of removal.
CLEVIS PIN,
6 X 25 mm
TRANSPORT
WHEELS
12
DRAG BAR
CLEVIS PIN,
6 X 25 mm
OPERATION
ENG. SW.
ON
OFF OFF
CHOKE
ENG. SW.
ON
OFF OFF
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 () position.
To restart a warm engine, leave the choke lever
down in the OPEN position.
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.
5. If the choke lever was moved to the CLOSED
() 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 the engine cold.
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 (see
page 23).
LEVER
(UP TO
CLOSE)
STARTER
GRIP
PRIMING
BULB
FUEL
RETURN
TUB E
(clear
plastic)
ENGINE SWITCH
Stopping the Engine
1. Release the throttle lever.
2. Move the engine switch to the OFF position.
CARRYING
HANDLE
THROTTLE
LEVER
ENGINE SWITCH
13
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