Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Powered Ro ta ry Tillers
TRAINING
• Read the Owner’s Manual care ful ly. Be thor ough ly
fa mil iar with the controls and the proper use of the
equip ment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage
the controls quickly.
• Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never
allow adults to op er ate the equipment without proper
instruction.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, par tic u lar ly small children, and pets.
PREPARATION
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is
to be used and remove all foreign objects.
• Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before
starting the engine (mo tor).
• Do not operate the equipment with out wearing ad e quate
outer gar ments. Wear footwear that will im prove footing
on slippery surfaces.
• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
• Use an approved fuel container.
• Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel
tank indoors.
• Replace gasoline cap securely and clean up spilled
fuel before restarting.
• Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by
the manufacturer for all units with electric drive motors
or electric starting motors.
• Never attempt to make any adjustments while the
engine (motor) is running (except where specifically
rec om mend ed by manufacturer).
OPERATION
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Exercise extreme caution when op er at ing on or cross ing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden
hazards or traffic. Do not carry pas sen gers.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (motor),
remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly in spect
the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and op er at ing the tiller.
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
• If the unit should start to vibrate ab nor mal ly, stop the
engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause.
Vi bra tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating
position.
• Take all possible precautions when leav ing the ma chine
unattended. Disengage the tines, shift into neutral, and
stop the engine.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, shut off the
engine and make certain all moving parts have stopped.
Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
from the plug to prevent accidental starting. Disconnect
the cord on electric motors.
• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are
dangerous.
• Never operate the tiller without proper guards, plates,
or other safety protective devices in place.
• Keep children and pets away.
• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting
to till too deep at too fast a rate.
• Never operate the machine at high speeds on slippery
surfaces. Look behind and use care when backing.
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.
• Use only attachments and accessories approved by
the manufacturer of the tiller.
• Never operate the tiller without good visibility or light.
• Be careful when tilling in hard ground. The tines may
catch in the ground and propel the tiller forward. If this
occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not restrain the
machine.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
• Keep machine, attachments, and accessories in safe
work ing condition.
• Check shear pins, engine mounting bolts, and other
bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure the equip ment is in safe working condition.
• Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside
a building where ignition sources are present, such
as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, and
the like. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
• Always refer to the operator’s guide instructions for
im por tant details if the tiller is to be stored for an extended period.
- IMPORTANT -
CAUTIONS, IMPORTANTS, AND NOTES ARE A MEANS OF
ATTRACTING ATTENTION TO IMPORTANT OR CRIT I CAL
IN FOR MA TION IN THIS MANUAL.
IMPORTANT: USED TO ALERT YOU THAT THERE IS A
POS SI BIL I TY OF DAM AG ING THIS EQUIP MENT.
NOTE: Gives essential information that will aid you to better understand, incorporate, or execute a particular set of
instructions.
Look for this symbol to point out im por tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BE COME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it can not contact spark plug in order to pre vent ac ci den tal starting when setting
up, trans port ing, adjusting or making
re pairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product con tains chem i cals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity: 3 Quarts
Unleaded Reg u lar (2,8L)
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tiller. It
has been designed, en gi neered and manu fac tured to give
you the best pos sible de penda bil ity and per form ance.
Should you experience any prob lems you can not easily
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service
center. We have com pe tent, well-trained tech ni cians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
Please read and retain this manual. The in struc tions will
enable you to assemble and main tain your tiller prop erly.
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for
and using your tiller.
• Follow instructions under “Maintenance” and “Stor age”
sections of this Owner’s Manual.
IMPORTANT: THIS UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH AN INTERNAL
COMBUSTION ENGINE AND SHOULD NOT BE USED ON
OR NEAR ANY UNIMPROVED FOREST-COVERED, BRUSHCOVERED OR GRASS COVERED LAND UNLESS THE
ENGINE'S EXHAUST SYSTEM IS EQUIPPED WITH A SPARK
ARRESTER MEETING APPLICABLE LOCAL LAWS (IF ANY).
IF A SPARK ARRESTER IS USED, IT SHOULD BE MAINTAINED
IN EFFECTIVE WORK ING ORDER BY THE OPERATOR.
IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, A SPARK ARRESTER IS
REQUIRED BY LAW (SECTION 4442 OF THE CALIFORNIA
PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE). OTHER STATES MAY HAVE
SIMILAR LAWS. FEDERAL L AWS APPLY ON FEDERAL LANDS.
SEE YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT
FOR SPARK ARRESTER.
Your new tiller has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(1) Utility knife
(1) Tire pressure gauge
(1) Pair of pliers
(1) 9/16" wrench
OPERATOR’S POSITION (See Fig. 1)
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (standing
behind tiller handles).
LEFT
FRONT
RIGHT
OPERATOR’S
POSITION
Fig. 1
4
ASSEMBLY
handles_10
handles_17
UNPACKING CARTON (See Fig. 2)
CAUTION: Be careful of exposed
sta ples when handling or disposing of
cartoning material.
IMPORTANT: WHEN UN PACK ING AND AS SEM BLING TILLER,
BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRETCH OR KINK CABLES.
• While holding handle assembly, cut cable ties se cur ing
handle assembly to top frame and depth stake. Let
handle assembly rest on tiller.
• Remove top frame of carton.
• Slowly ease handle assembly up and place on top of
carton.
• Cut down right hand front and right hand rear cor ners
of carton, lay side carton wall down.
• Remove packing material from handle assembly.
HANDLE
AS SEM BLY
carton_3
SHIFT ROD
Fig. 2
INSTALL HANDLE (See Figs. 3, 4, and 5)
• Insert the thicker black handle lock (with teeth facing
outward) in gearcase notch.
VIEWED FROM R.H. SIDE OF TILLER
HANDLE ASSEMBLY
GEARCASE
NOTCH
BLACK
HANDLE
LOCK
• Grasp handle assembly. Hold in “up” position. Be sure
handle lock remains in gearcase notch. Slide handle
assembly into position.
HANDLE ASSEMBLY
"UP" POSITION
TIGHTEN HANDLE LOCK
LEVER TO HOLD
LOOSEN HANDLE
LOCK LEVER TO MOVE
Fig. 4
• Rotate handle assembly down. Insert rear carriage bolt
first, with bolt head on L.H. side of tiller and loosely
assemble locknut (See Fig. 5).
• Insert pivot bolt in front part of plate and tighten.
• Cut down remaining corners of carton and lay panels
flat.
• Lower the handle assembly. Tighten nut on carriage
bolt so handle moves with some resistance. This will
allow for easier adjustment.
• Place flat washer on threaded end of handle lock lever.
• Insert handle lock lever through handle base and
gearcase. Screw in handle lock lever just enough to
hold lever in place.
• Insert second handle lock (with teeth in ward) in the
slot of the handle base (just inside of washer).
• With handle assembly in lowest position, securely
tight en handle lock lever by rotating clockwise. Leav ing
handle assembly in lowest position will make it easier
to remove tiller from carton.
HANDLE
LOCK
GEARCASE
SLOT
FLAT
WASHER
HANDLE LOCK
LEVER
Fig. 3
5
CARRIAGE
BOLT
handles_34
HANDLE
BASE
PIVOT BOLT
LOCKNUT
Fig. 5
ASSEMBLY
ATTACH CLUTCH CABLE (See Fig. 6)
• Hook spring of clutch cable through hole in control bar
bracket.
CONTROL BAR
BRACKET
CONTROL
BAR
CLUTCH
CABLE
CONTROL BAR
BRACKET
END OF CLUTCH
CABLE
Fig. 6
CONNECT SHIFT ROD (See Fig. 7)
• Insert end of shift rod into hole of shift lever indicator.
• Insert hairpin clip through hole of shift rod to secure.
SHIFT
ROD
HAIRPIN
CLIP
SHIFT
LEVER
INDICATOR
Fig. 7
REMOVE TILLER FROM CRATE
• Make sure shift lever indicator is in “N” position (See
Fig. 7)
• Tilt tiller forward by lifting handle. Separate cardboard
cover from leveling shield.
• Rotate tiller handle to the right and pull tiller out of
carton.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your unit were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes. Correct and equal tire pressure is
important for best tilling performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to 20 PSI (1.4 kg/cm2).
HANDLE HEIGHT
• Handle height may be adjusted to better suit operator.
(See “TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT” in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual).
6
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TILLER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TILLER.
Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their
meaning.
SHIFT LEVER
DRIVE
CONTROL
BAR
DEPTH STAKE
LEVELING
SHIELD
SHIFT LEVER IN DI CA TOR
Fig. 8
CHOKE CONTROL
THROTTLE
CONTROL
RECOIL
STARTER
HANDLE
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls depth at which tiller will dig.
DRIVE CONTROL BAR - Used to engage tines.
LEVELING SHIELD - Levels tilled soil.
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to start the engine.
SHIFT LEVER - Used to shift transmission gears.
SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR - Shows which gear the trans-
mis sion is in.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine speed.
7
OPERATION
00155
depth_stake_2
The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting
your tiller and while tilling. We recommend a wide vision safety mask for over spectacles
or standard safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER
Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel and
oil or attempting to start engine.
STOPPING (See Fig. 9)
TINES AND DRIVE
• Release drive control bar to stop movement.
• Move shift lever to “N” (neutral) position.
ENGINE
• Move throttle control to “STOP” position.
• Never use choke to stop engine.
SHALLOWEST
TILLING
(CULTIVATING)
DEEPEST
TILLING
DEPTH
STAKE
TRANSPORT
POSITION
SHIFT LEVER
DRIVE CONTROL BAR
“ENGAGED” PO SI TION
DRIVE CONTROL BAR
“DISENGAGED” PO SI TION
Fig. 9
TINE OPERATION - WITH WHEEL DRIVE
• Always release drive control bar before moving shift
lever into another position.
• Tine movement is achieved by moving shift lever to
( ) till position and engaging drive control bar.
FORWARD - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED
• Release drive control bar and move shift lever in di ca tor
to “F” (forward) position. Engage drive control bar and
tiller will move forward.
REVERSE - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED
• DO NOT STAND DIRECTLY BEHIND TILLER.
• Release the drive control bar.
• Move throttle control to “SLOW” position.
• Move shift lever indicator to “R” (reverse) position.
• Hold drive control bar against the handle to start tiller
movement.
HARD TO SHIFT GEARS
• Briefly engage drive control bar and release or rock tiller
forward and backward until are able to shift gears.
DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 10)
The depth stake can be raised or lowered to allow you more
versatile tilling and cul ti vat ing, or to more easily transport
your tiller.
Fig. 10
TILLING (See Fig. 11)
• Release depth stake pin. Pull the depth stake up for
increased tilling depth. Place depth stake pin in hole
of depth stake to lock in position.
• Place shift lever indicator in tilling position.
• Hold the drive control bar against the handle to start
tilling movement. Tines and wheels will both turn.
• Move throttle control to “FAST” position for deep tilling.
To cultivate, throttle control can be set at any desired
speed, depending on how fast or slow you wish to
cultivate.
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS RELEASE DRIVE CONTROL
BAR BEFORE MOVING SHIFT LEVER INTO ANOTHER
POSITION.
DEPTH STAKE PIN
“RELEASED” POSITION
“LOCKED”
NUT
“B”
SIDE SHIELD
NUT
“A”
depth_stake_16
POSITION
Fig. 11
TURNING
• Release the drive control bar.
• Move throttle control to “SLOW” position.
• Place shift lever indicator in “F” (forward) position.
Tines will not turn.
• Lift handle to raise tines out of ground.
• Swing the handle in the opposite direction you wish
to turn, being careful to keep feet and legs away from
tines.
8
OPERATION
engine_art_4
• When you have completed your turn-around, release
the drive control bar and lower handle. Place shift
lever in till position and move throttle control to de sired
speed. To begin tilling, hold drive control bar against
the handle.
TO TRANSPORT
CAUTION: Before lifting or trans port ing, allow tiller engine and muffler to
cool. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain
gasoline from fuel tank.
AROUND THE YARD
• Release the depth stake pin. Move the depth stake
down to the top hole for transporting the tiller. Place
depth stake pin in hole of depth stake to lock in position. This prevents tines from scuffing the ground.
• Place shift lever indicator in “F” (forward) position for
transporting.
• Hold the drive control bar against the handle to start
tiller movement. Tines will not turn.
• Move throttle control to desired speed.
AROUND TOWN
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Drain fuel tank.
• Transport in upright position to prevent oil leakage.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
IMPORTANT: BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT
TO ENTER THE ENGINE WHEN CHECKING OR ADDING
OIL OR FUEL. USE CLEAN OIL AND FUEL AND STORE IN
AP PROVED, CLEAN, COVERED CONTAINERS. USE CLEAN
FILL FUNNELS.
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig.12)
• The engine in your unit has been shipped, from the fac-
tory, already filled with SAE 30 summer weight oil.
• With engine level, clean area around oil filler plug and
remove plug.
• Engine oil should be to point of overflowing when engine
is level. For ap proxi mate capacity see “PROD UCT
SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on page 3 of this manual. All oil
must meet A.P.I. Service Classification SG-SL.
• For cold weather operation you should change oil for
easier starting (See oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance sec tion of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in
this manual.
OIL
LEVEL
OIL
FILLER
OIL DRAIN
PLUG
Fig. 12
PLUG
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill.
Use fresh, clean, regular un lead ed gasoline with a
minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce
valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel
in quan ti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure
fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to
allow for fuel expansion. If gasoline
is ac ci den tal ly spilled, move machine
away from area of spill. Avoid creating
any source of ignition until gasoline
vapors have disappeared.
Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not
store, spill or use gasoline near an
open flame.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GAS O LINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
START ING.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gas o hol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to sep a ra tion and for ma tion of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine while in
storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel
system should be emptied before stor age of
30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
sea son. See Storage In struc tions for additional
information. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 13)
CAUTION: Keep drive control bar in
“DISENGAGED” position when start ing en gine.
When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run
out of fuel, it will take extra pulls of the recoil starter to
move fuel from the tank to the engine.
• Make sure spark plug wire is prop er ly connected.
• Move shift lever indicator to “N” (neutral) position.
• Place throttle control in “FAST” position.
• Turn fuel shut-off valve 1/4 turn to open position.
• Move choke control to choke position.
• Grasp recoil starter handle with one hand and grasp
tiller handle with other hand. Pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of com pres sion cycle (rope will
pull slightly harder at this point).
• Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not let starter
handle snap back against starter.
• If engine fires but does not start, move choke control
to half choke position. Pull recoil starter handle until
engine starts.
9
OPERATION
321
5
4
67
• When engine starts, slowly move choke control to
"RUN" position as engine warms up.
NOTE: A warm engine requires less choking to start.
• Move throttle control to desired running position.
• Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before
engaging tines.
NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or in cold tem per a tures
(below 32°F), the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be
adjusted for best engine performance. See "TO AD JUST
CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual.
NOTE: If engine does not start, see troubleshooting
points.
SPARK PLUG
THROTTLE
CHOKE
CON TROL
RECOIL
STARTER
engine_art_77
CONTROL
• Soil conditions are important for proper tilling. Tines will
not readily penetrate dry, hard soil which may con trib ute
to excessive bounce and difficult handling of your tiller.
Hard soil should be mois tened before tilling; however,
extremely wet soil will “ball-up” or clump during tilling.
Wait until the soil is less wet in order to achieve the
best results. When tilling in the fall, re move vines and
long grass to prevent them from wrapping around the
tine shaft and slowing your tilling operation.
• Do not lean on handle. This takes weight off the wheels
and reduces traction. To get through a really tough
section of sod or hard ground, apply upward pressure
on handle or lower the depth stake.
CULTIVATING
Cultivating is destroying the weeds between rows to pre vent them from robbing nourishment and moisture from the
plants. At the same time, breaking up the upper layer of
soil crust will help retain moisture in the soil. Best digging
depth is 1" to 3" (2.5-7.5 cm). Lower the outer side shields
to protect small plants from being buried.
• Cultivate up and down the rows at a speed which will
allow tines to uproot weeds and leave the ground in
rough condition, promoting no further growth of weeds
and grass (See Fig. 15).
Fig. 13
TILLING HINTS
CAUTION: Until you are accustomed to
handling your tiller, start actual field use
with throttle in slow position (mid-way
between “FAST” and “IDLE”).
• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and breaking up
packed soil before planting. Loose, unpacked soil helps
root growth. Best tilling depth is 4" to 6" (10-15 cm).
A tiller will also clear the soil of unwanted vege ta tion.
The de com po si tion of this vegetable mat ter enriches
the soil. Depending on the climate (rain fall and wind),
it may be advisable to till the soil at the end of the
growing season to further condition the soil.
• You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row
untilled between passes. Then go back between tilled
rows. (See Fig. 14) There are two reasons for doing
this. First, wide turns are much easier to negotiate than
about-faces. Sec ond, the tiller won’t be pulling itself,
and you, toward the row next to it.
Fig. 15
TINE SHEAR PINS
The tine assemblies on your tiller are secured to the tine
shaft with shear pins (See “TINE REPLACEMENT” in the
Service and Ad just ments section of this manual).
If the tiller is unusually overloaded or jammed, the shear
pins are designed to break before internal damage occurs
to the trans mis sion.
• If shear pin(s) break, replace only with those shown in
the Repair Parts section of this manual.
Fig. 14
10
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Oil Pivot Points
Inspect Air Screen
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins
Replace Spark Plug
BEFORE EACH USE
EVERY 25 HOURS
EVERY 5 HOURS
EVERY 50 HOURS
SERVICE DATES
1,2
2
1 - Change more often when operating undera heavy load orin high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty ordusty conditions.
EVERY SEASON
RH Gear Case Grease Fitting (1oz.)
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tiller does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, the operator must main tain
tiller as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to
properly maintain your tiller.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual should be checked at least once each
season.
• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean
or replace air filter, and check tines and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper airfuel mixture and help your engine run better and last
longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check tine operation.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).
LUBRICATION CHART
d ENGINE
e RH GEAR CASE
GREASE FITTIG
c IDLER
BRACKET
c
SAE 30 OR 10W-30 MOTOR OIL
d REFER TO MAINTENANCE “EN GINE” SECTION
e EP #1 GREASE
c WHEEL
HUB
c DEPTH
STAKE PIN
c LEVELING
SHIELD
HINGES
11
MAINTENANCE
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance (except car bu re tor adjustment) to
prevent accidental start ing of engine.
Prevent fires! Keep the engine free of grass, leaves, spilled oil, or fuel. Re move fuel from tank
before tipping unit for maintenance. Clean muffler area of all grass, dirt, and debris.
Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as contact may cause burns.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classification SG-SL. Select the oil’s SAE vis cos i ty grade
according to your expected temperature.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
SAE 30
10W-30 / 5W-30
-20 0 30 40
F
C
-30
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
-20 4
-10
60
10
80
20 30 40
Fig. 16
100
oil_visc_chart5_e(drt)
OIL
DRAIN
PLUG
OIL LEVEL
OIL FILLER
PLUG
Fig. 17
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W-30, 10W-30, etc.)
improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption when used above
40°F (4°C). Check your engine oil level more frequently to
avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at
least once a year if the tiller is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine
and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Add SAE
30 motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug securely
each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs. 16 and 17)
Determine temperature range expected before oil change.
All oil must meet API service classification SG-SL.
• Be sure tiller is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Use a funnel to prevent oil spill on tiller, and catch oil
in a suitable con tain er.
• Remove drain plug. For easier removal of plug use
7/16 12 Pt. socket with extension.)
• Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
• After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug
and tighten securely.
• Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to allow dirt to
enter the engine.
• Refill engine with oil. See “CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL”
in the Operation section of this manual.
AIR FILTER (See Fig. 18)
Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter. Clean
the foam pre-cleaner after every 25 hours of op er a tion or
every season. Service paper cartridge every 100 hours of
operation or every season, which ev er occurs first.
Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.
• Remove cover screw and cover.
TO SERVICE PRE-CLEANER
• Remove foam pre-cleaner from air cleaner cover.
• Wash it in liquid detergent and water.
• Squeeze it dry in a clean cloth.
• If very dirty or damaged, replace pre-cleaner.
• Reinstall pre-cleaner into air cleaner cover.
• Reinstall cover and secure screw.
TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE
• Carefully remove cartridge to prevent debris from
en ter ing carburetor. Clean base carefully to pre vent
debris from entering carburetor.
• Clean cartridge by tap ping gen tly on flat surface. If
very dirty or damaged, replace cartridge.
• Re in stall cartridge, cover with pre-cleaner and se cure
with screw.
IMPORTANT: PETROLEUM SOLVENTS, SUCH AS KER O SENE,
ARE NOT TO BE USED TO CLEAN THE CAR TRIDGE. THEY
MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION OF THE CARTRIDGE. DO
NOT OIL CARTRIDGE. DO NOT USE PRESSURIZED AIR TO
CLEAN OR DRY CARTRIDGE.
12
MAINTENANCE
COVER
KNOB
COVER
FOAM
AIR CLEANER
CARTRIDGE
PRECLEANER
BASE
Fig. 18
COOLING SYSTEM (See Fig. 19)
Your engine is air cooled. For proper engine performance
and long life keep your engine clean.
• Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-bristled
brush.
• Keep cylinder fins, levers, and linkage free of dirt and
chaff.
MUFFLER
CYLINDER FINS
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each tilling sea son or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first.
Spark plug type and gap setting is shown in “PRODUCT
SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on page 3 of this manual.
TRANSMISSION
Once a season, lubricate the right hand side gear case
grease fitting with 1 oz. of EP #1 Grease.
CLEANING
Do not clean your tiller when the engine and transmission
are hot. We do not rec om mend using pressurized water
(gar den hose, etc.) to clean your unit un less the gasket
area around the trans mis sion and the engine muf fler, air
fil ter and car bu re tor are cov ered to keep wa ter out. Wa ter
in en gine will short en the useful life of your tiller.
• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all foreign matter.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gas o line,
oil, etc.
• Protect painted surfaces with au to mo tive type wax.
BLOW ER
HOUS ING
AIR SCREEN
engine_art_77
Fig. 19
MUFFLER
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not tamper with
exhaust system. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters
could create a fire hazard. Inspect pe ri odi cally and re place
if nec es sary. If your engine is equipped with a spark arrester
screen assembly, re move every 50 hours for cleaning and
inspection. Re place if dam aged.
13
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
handles_17
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come
into contact with plug.
TILLER
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT (See Fig. 20)
Select handle height best suited for your tilling conditions.
Handle height will be different when tiller digs into soil.
• First loosen handle lock lever.
• Handle can be positioned at different settings between
“HIGH” and “LOW” positions.
• Retighten handle lock lever securely after adjusting.
HANDLE
(HIGH POSITION)
HANDLE LOCK
LEVER
HANDLE
(LOW POSITION)
Fig. 20
CLEVIS PIN
HAIRPIN CLIP
Fig. 21
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD (See Fig. 22)
• Remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from left wheel.
Pull wheel out from tiller about 1 inch.
• Remove cap nut and washer, and hex bolt and washer
from side of belt guard.
• Remove hex nut and washer from bottom of belt guard
(located behind wheel).
• Pull belt guard out and away from tiller.
• Replace belt guard by reversing above procedure.
TIRE CARE
CAUTION: When mounting tires, un less beads are seated, over in fla tion
can cause an explosion.
• Maintain 20 pounds of tire pressure. If tire pressures
are not equal, tiller will pull to one side.
• Keep tires free of gasoline or oil which can damage
rubber.
TO REMOVE WHEEL (See Fig. 21)
• Place blocks under trans mis sion to keep tiller from
tipping.
• Remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from wheel.
• Remove wheel and tire.
• Repair tire and reassemble.
BELT GUARD
HEX BOLT
AND WASHER
CAP NUT AND
WASHER
HEX NUT
AND WASHER
(LOCATED
BEHIND
TIRE)
HAIRPIN CLIP AND CLEVIS PIN
Fig. 22
14
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
TO REPLACE GROUND DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 23)
• Remove belt guard (See “TO REMOVE BELT GUARD”
in this section of this manual).
• Remove old belt by slipping off engine pulley first then
remove from transmission pulley.
• Place new belt in groove of transmission pulley and
into engine pulley. BELT MUST BE IN GROOVE ON
TOP OF IDLER PULLEY. NOTE POSITION OF BELT
TO GUIDES.
• Check belt adjustment as described below.
• Replace belt guard.
• Reposition wheel and replace clevis pin and hairpin
clip.
ENGINE
PULLEY
GROUND DRIVE BELT ADJUSTMENT
(See Fig. 23)
For proper belt tension, the extension spring should
have about 5/8 inch stretch when drive control bar is in
“EN GAGED” position. This tension can be attained as
follows:
• Loosen cable clip screw securing the drive control
cable.
• Slide cable forward for less tension and rearward for
more tension until about 5/8 inch stretch is obtained
while the drive control bar is engaged.
• Tighten cable clip screw securely.
CABLE CLIP
SCREW
DRIVE
CONTROL
CABLE
IDLER
PULLEY
TRANS MIS SION PULLEY
Fig. 23
15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
TINE REPLACEMENT (See Figs. 24, 25 and
26)
CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when han dling tines.
A badly worn tine causes your tiller to work harder and dig
more shallow. Most important, worn tines cannot chop and
shred organic matter as effectively nor bury it as deeply as
good tines. A tine this worn needs to be replaced.
NEW TINE
Fig.24
WORN TINE
• To maintain the superb tilling performance of this ma chine the tines should be checked for sharpness, wear,
and bending, particularly the tines which are next to
the transmission. If the gap between the tines ex ceeds
3-1/2 inches they should be replaced or straight ened
as necessary.
• New tines should be assembled as shown in Fig.
26. Sharp ened tine edges will rotate rearward from
above.
TRANSMISSION
TINE
3-1/2" MAX
TINE
SHARP
EDGE
SHEAR PIN
SHEAR PIN
SHARP EDGE
tine_12
Fig. 25
COUNTER
TINE
ROTATION
SHARP EDGE
SHARP
EDGE
HAIRPIN CLIP
SHARP
EDGES
Fig. 26
16
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
ENGINE
TO AD JUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has been preset at the factory and ad just ment
should not be necessary. However, engine per for mance
can be affected by dif fer enc es in fuel, tem per a ture, al ti tude
or load. If the carburetor does need ad just ment, contact
your nearest authorized service center/de part ment
IMPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE
GOVERNOR, WHICH IS FACTORY SET FOR PROPER ENGINE
SPEED. OVER SPEED ING THE ENGINE ABOVE THE FACTORY
HIGH SPEED SETTING CAN BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THINK
THE ENGINE-GOVERNED HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING,
CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/
DEPARTMENT, WHICH HAS THE PROPER EQUIP MENT AND
EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NEC ES SARY ADJUSTMENTS.
17
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
WARNING: Never store the tiller with
gasoline in the tank inside a build ing
where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any en clo sure.
TILLER
• Clean entire tiller (See “CLEANING” in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
• Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt re place ment instructions in the Service and Ad just ments
section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this
manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely
fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, break age
and wear. Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand
lightly before painting.
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS
FROM FORMING IN ES SEN TIAL FUEL SYS TEM PARTS SUCH
AS THE CAR BU RE TOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK
DURING STOR AGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT
AL CO HOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING
ETHA NOL OR METHA NOL) CAN ATTRACT MOIS TURE WHICH
LEADS TO SEPA RA TION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DUR ING
STOR AGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM
OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN STOR AGE.
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and let it run
until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in
the fuel tank or permanent.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stablizer is an acceptable alternative in
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during
storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stablizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stablizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor.
Do not empty the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel
stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean oil. (See
“ENGINE” in the Maintenance section of this man ual).
CYLINDER(S)
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into
cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly several times to distribute
oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give
protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic
cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and
will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER TILLER WHILE EN GINE AND
EX HAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.
18
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Will not start 1. Out of fuel. 1. Fill fuel tank.
2. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. 2. See “TO START ENGINE” in Operation section.
3. Engine flooded. 3. Wait several minutes before attempting to start.
4. Dirty air cleaner. 4. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
5. Water in fuel. 5. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, and refill tank with fresh,
clean gasoline.
6. Clogged fuel tank. 6. Remove fuel tank and clean.
7. Loose spark plug wire. 7. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on plug.
8. Bad spark plug or improper gap. 8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
9. Carburetor out of adjustment. 9. Make necessary adjustments.
10. Oil soaked air filter. 10. Replace air filter.
Hard to start1. Throttle control not set properly. 1. Place throttle control in “FAST” position.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
3. Bad spark plug or improper gap. 3. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
4. Stale or dirty fuel. 4. Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh, clean gasoline.
5. Loose spark plug wire. 5. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on plug.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment. 6. Make necessary adjustments.
Loss of power 1. Engine is overloaded. 1. Set depth stake for shallower tilling.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
2. Dirty engine air screen. 2. Clean engine air screen.
3. Dirty engine. 3. Clean cylinder fins, air screen, and muffler area.
4. Partially plugged muffler. 4. Remove and clean muffler.
5. Improper carburetor adjustment. 5. Adjust carburetor to richer position.
Excessive bounce/ 1. Ground too dry and hard. 1. Moisten ground or wait for more favorable soil
difficult handling conditions.
Soil balls up or clumps 1. Ground too wet. 1. Wait for more favorable soil conditions.
Engine runs but tiller 1. Drive control bar is not engaged. 1. Engage drive control.
won’t move 2. V-belt not correctly adjusted. 2. Inspect/adjust V-belt.
3. V-belt is off pulley(s). 3. Inspect V-belt.
Engine runs but labors 1. Tilling too deep. 1. Set depth stake for shallower tilling.
when tilling 2. Throttle control not properly adjusted. 2. Check throttle control setting.
3. Carburetor out of adjustment. 3. Make necessary adjustments.
Tines will not rotate 1. Shear pin(s) broken. 1. Replace shear pin(s).