Read and keep this book for future reference.
This book contains important information on
SAFETY, ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, and MAINTENANCE.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
The owner must be certain
that all the product information
is included with the unit.
This information includes the
INSTRUCTION BOOKS, the
REPLACEMENT PARTS and the
WARRANTIES.
This information must be included
to make sure state laws and other laws
are followed.
MS-3615MA
WARRANTY STATEMENT
SECTION 1: LIMITED WARRANTY
Husqvarna Forest & Garden Company (Husqvarna") warrants Husqvarna product to the original purchaser to be free from defects
in material and workmanship from the date of purchase for the Warranty Period" of the product as set forth below:
Lifetime Warranty (Parts and Labor): All tiller tines and trimmer shafts against breakage. Proof of purchase required.
Lifetime Warranty (PARTS ONLY" after initial warranty expiration): Ignition coils and modules on handheld product. Proof
of purchase required.
WARRANTY SCHEDULE FOR TURF CARE Equipment − Zero Turn Riders (New warranty applies to units sold after August
1, 2005. Also applies to units factory-equipped with R.O.P.S.
EZ Zero Turn Riders: 3 year consumer warranty or 600 hours of use (when used solely at the owner’s residence.)
EZ Zero Turn Riders: 1 year commercial warranty or 600 hours of use.
iZ, LZ & BZ Zero Turn Riders: 5 year consumer warranty or 1,500 hours of use (when used solely at the owner’s residence.)
iZ, LZ & BZ Zero Turn Riders: 1 year commerical warranty or 1,500 hours of use.
3 Year or 1,500 Hour Commercial Use Warranty: spindles on zero turn riders, hydraulic pumps and wheel motors.
Warranty Schedule for Turf Care Walk Behind Units − W, WG & WH Zero Turn Riders - 3 year consumer and commercial war-
ranty. New warranty applies to units sold after August 1, 2005. Also applies to units factory-equipped with R.O.P.S.
2 Year COMMERCIAL and CONSUMER Warranty: all Husqvarna ground-engaging commercial equipment.
WARRANTY SCHEDULE FOR CONSUMER TURF CARE EQUIPMENT:
2 Year Consumer Warranty: Automatic mower, all Residential Zero Turn Riders, all lawn, yard and garden tractors, all noncommercial walk behind mowers, tillers, chain saws, trimmers, brushcutters, clearing saws, snow blowers, handheld blowers, backpack
blowers, hedge trimmers, electrical products and power-assist collection systems for noncommercial, nonprofessional, noninstitutional or nonincome producing use, except as herein stated. All consumer product use must have been limited to the owner’s residence.
WARRANTY SCHEDULE FOR CONSUMER FOREST & GARDEN EQUIPMENT:
2 Year Consumer Warranty: all consumer chain saws, trimmers, brushcutters, clearing saws, handheld blowers, backpack blowers, hedge trimmers, and electrical products for noncommercial, nonprofessional, noninstitutional or nonincome producing use,
except as herein stated. All consumer product use must have been limited to the owner’s residence.
2 Year or 2,000 Hour & 1 Year or 1,000 Hour Warranty: Husqvarna Utility Vehicles
1 Year Warranty: Power cutters, stump grinder, pole pruners and pole saws for noncommercial, nonprofessional, noninstitutional
or nonincome producing use. All 300 series trimmers, brushcutters, clearing saws, hovering trimmers, stick edgers, backpack
blowers, handheld blowers, hedge trimmers, power-assist collection systems for commercial, institutional, professional or income
producing purposes or use.
1 Year Conditional Component Warranty: Chain saw crankshafts for commercial/professional use (parts and labor). Saw must
be operated with Husqvarna XP 2 cycle oil.
90 Day Commercial Warranty: Automatic mower, chain saws, 100 series trimmers, power cutters, stump grinders, pole saws,
pole pruners, snow throwers, model series 580 & 600 walk-behind mowers, or any Husqvarna product used for commercial, institutional, professional, municipality or income producing purposes or use except as otherwise provided herein.
Batteries: 1 year prorated limited warranty with 100% replacement during the first 6 months.
Rental Warranty: 90 days on all applicable professional equipment reference warranty time period charts located in the back of
the Retailer Warranty Policy & Procedure Manual.
Husqvarna Safety Apparel caries as 90-day warranty from the date of the customer’s original purchase for defects in material
and workmanship. Normal wear, tear or abuse is not covered under the warranty. Product must be returned to Charlotte with a
warranty claim form. All care and maintenance instructions must be followed as stated by the manufacturer on the care label. The
fit of the product apparel/boot is not covered under warranty.
30 Day Warranty: Replacement parts, accessories including bars and chains, tools and display items. Emission control system
components necessary to comply with CARB-TIER II and EPA regulations, except for those components which are part of engine
systems manufactured by third part engine manufactures for which the purchaser has received a separate warranty with product
at time of purchase.
SECTION 2: HUSQVARNA’S OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE WARRANTY
Husqvarna will repair or replace defective components without charge for parts or labor if a component fails because of a defect
in material or workmanship during the warranty period.
MS−3615MA
2
SECTION 3: ITEMS NOT COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY
The following items are not covered by this warranty:
1. Normal customer maintenance items which become worn through normal regular use, including, but not limited to,
belts, blades, blade adapters, bulbs, clutches, clutch drums, filters, guide bars, lubricants, rewind springs, saw chain,
spark plugs, starter ropes and tines.
2. Natural discoloration of material due to ultraviolet light.
3. Engine and drive systems not manufactured by Husqvarna; these items are covered by the respective manufacturer’s
warranty as provided in writing with the product information supplied at the time of purchase; all claims must be sent
to the appropriate manufacturer.
4. Lawn and garden attachments are covered by a third party which gives a warranty, all claims for warranty should be
sent to the manufacturer.
5. Commercial or consumer mowing decks with sand abrasion damage.
5. Emission Control System components necessary to comply with CARB-TIER III and EPA regulations which are
manufactured by third party engine manufacturer.
SECTION 4: EXCEPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS
This warranty shall be inapplicable to defects resulting from the following:
1. Accident, abuse, misuse, negligence and neglect, including stale fuel, dirt, abrasives, moisture, rust, corrosion, or
any adverse reaction due to incorrect storage or use habits;
2. Failure to operate or maintain the unit in accordance with the Owner’s/Operator ’s manual or instruction sheet furnished by Husqvarna;
3. Alterations or modifications that change the intended use of the product or affects the product’s performance, operation, safety, or durability, or causes the product to fail to comply with any applicable laws; or:
4. Additional damage to parts or components due to continued use occurring after any of the above.
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. HUSQVARNA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THESE PRODUCTS EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE
LAW. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ON THESE PRODUCTS IS LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD AS DEFINED IN THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT.
HUSQVARNA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OR IMPROVE THE DESIGN OF THE PRODUCT WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND DOES NOT ASSUME OBLIGATION TO UPDATE PREVIOUSLY MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS.
Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.
SECTION 5: CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
The product must exhibit reasonable care, maintenance, operation, storage and general upkeep as written in the mainte-
nance section of the Owner’s/Operator ’s manual. Should an operational problem or failure occur, the product should not be used,
but delivered as is to an authorized Husqvarna retailer for evaluation. Proof of purchase, as explained in section 6, rests solely
with the customer.
SECTION 6: PROCEDURE TO OBTAIN WARRANTY CONSIDERATION
It is the Owner’s and Retailer’s responsibility to make certain that the Warranty Registration Card is properly filled out and
mailed to Husqvarna Forest & Garden Company. This card should be mailed within ten (10) days from the date of purchase in
order to confirm the warranty and to facilitate post-sale service.
Proof of purchase must be presented to the authorized Husqvarna retailer in order to obtain warranty service. This proof must
include date purchased, model number, serial number, and complete name and address of the selling retailer.
To obtain the benefit of this warranty, the product believed to be defective must be delivered to an authorized Husqvarna
retailer in a timely manner, no later that thirty (30) days from date of the operational problem or failure. The product must be delivered at the owner’s expense. Downtime, pick-up and delivery charges are not covered by this warranty. An authorized Husqvarna
retailer can be normally located through the Yellow Pages" of the local telephone directory or by calling 1-800-HUSKY62 for a
dealer in your area.
Record the following information about your unit so that you will be able to provide
it in case of loss or theft.
MODEL NUMBER:
PURCHASE DATE:
DEALER’S NAME AND ADDRESS:
CITY: STATE: TELEPHONE:
/ / CODE NO.: SERIAL NO.:
(Enter complete 8 digit number
from model plate on unit)
IMPORTANT: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and must not be
used on or near any unimproved forest−covered, brush−covered or grass−covered land
unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it must be maintained in
effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on
federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine
authorized service dealer.
MS−3615MA
4
This instruction book is written for a person with some mechanical ability. Like most service books,
not all the steps are described. Steps on how to loosen or tighten fasteners are steps anyone can
follow with some mechanical ability. Read and follow these instructions before you use the unit.
Know your product: If you understand the unit and how the unit operates, you will get the best
performance. As you read this manual, compare the illustrations to the unit. Learn the location and
the function of the controls. To help prevent an accident, follow the operating instructions and the
safety rules. Keep this manual for future reference.
IMPORTANT: Many units are not assembled and are sold in cartons. It is the responsibility of the
owner to make sure the assembly instructions in this manual are exactly followed. Other units are
purchased in an assembled condition. On assembled units, it is the responsibility of the owner to
make sure the unit is correctly assembled. The owner must carefully check the unit according to
the instructions in this manual before it is first used.
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER
The responsibility of the owner is to follow the instructions below.
1. Carefully read and follow the rules for safe operation.
2. Follow all the assembly and preparation instructions.
3. Inspect the unit.
4. Make sure that the operator of the unit knows how to correctly use all standard and accessory
equipment.
5. Operate the unit only with guards, shields, and other safety items in place and working correctly.
6. Correctly adjust the unit.
7. Service the unit only with authorized or approved replacement parts.
8. Complete all maintenance on the unit.
OWNER’S INFORMATION
MS−3615MA
Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and
certain vehicle components contain or emit
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other reproductive
harm. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING.
5
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Cultivator
WARNING: Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions.
It means: “Attention! Become Alert! Your Safety Is Involved.”
WARNING: To prevent accidental starting when setting−up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark
plug wire and put wire where it cannot
contact the spark plug .
IMPORTANT: Safety standards require opera-
tor presence controls to minimize the risk of injury. Your cultivator is equipped with such
controls. Do not attempt to defeat the function
of the operator presence control under any circumstances.
Before Use
S Read the owner’s manual carefully. Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the cultivator. Know how
to stop the cultivator and disengage the
controls quickly.
S Do not operate the cultivator without wear-
ing adequate outer garments. Wear footwear that will improve footing on slippery
surfaces.
S Keep the area of operation clear of all per-
sons, particularly small children and pets.
S Thoroughly inspect the area where the cul-
tivator is to be used and remove all foreign
objects.
S Keep in mind that the operator or user is
responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people, their property, and
themselves.
S Disengage all clutches and shift into neu-
tral before starting the engine (motor).
Fuel Safety
S Handle fuel with care; it is highly flam-
mable.
S Use an approved container.
S Check fuel supply before each use, allow-
ing space for expansion as the heat of the
engine and/or sun can cause fuel to expand.
MS−3615MA
S Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care.
Do not smoke while refueling. Never fill fuel
tank indoors. Replace fuel tank cap securely and wipe up spilled fuel.
S If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine but move the machine away from
the area of spillage and avoid creating any
source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.
S Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel
to a running or hot engine.
S Never store fuel or cultivator with fuel in the
tank inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame.
Operating Safety
S Never allow children or young teenagers to
operate the cultivator. Keep them away
while it is operating. Never allow adults to
operate the cultivator without proper instruction.
S Do not operate this machine if you are tak-
ing drugs or other medication which can
cause drowsiness or affect your ability to
operate this machine.
S Do not use this machine if you are mentally
or physically unable to operate this machine safely.
S Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
during operation or while performing an
adjustment or repair to protect your eyes
from foreign objects that may be thrown
from the cultivator.
S Do not put hands or feet near or under ro-
tating parts.
S Exercise extreme caution when operating
on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or
roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or
traffic.
S Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
S Never operate the cultivator without proper
guards, plates, or other safety protective
devices in place.
Continued: following page
6
S Use only attachments and accessories ap-
SAFETY RULES
proved by the manufacturer of the machine
(such as wheel weights, counterweights,
and the like.
S Never operate the cultivator at high trans-
port speeds on hard or slippery surfaces.
Look behind and use care when backing.
S Never allow bystanders near the cultivator.
S Keep children and pets away while
operating.
S Never operate the cultivator without good
visibility or light.
S 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.
S Use extreme care when reversing or pull-
ing the machine towards you.
S Do not change the engine governor set-
tings or overspeed the engine.
S Start the engine or switch on the motor
carefully according to instructions and with
feet well away from the tines.
S Never pick up or carry a machine while the
engine is running.
S Do not run the engine indoors. The ex-
haust fumes are dangerous, containing
CARBON MONOXIDE, an ODORLESS
and DEADLY GAS.
S Take all possible precautions when leaving
the cultivator unattended. Stop the engine,
and if equipped, remove the key.
S Do not overload the cultivator capacity by
attempting to till too deep at too fast a rate.
Safe Storage
S Always refer to the owner’s manual instruc-
tions for important details if the cultivator is
to be stored for an extended period.
S Never store the cultivator with fuel in the
fuel tank inside a building where ignition
sources are present such as water and
space heaters, clothes dryers, and the like.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in
any enclosure.
S If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this
outdoors.
S Keep the cultivator in safe working condi-
tion. Check all fasteners at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
Repair / Adjustments Safety
S After striking a foreign object, stop the en-
gine. Remove the wire from the spark plug,
and keep the wire away from the plug to
prevent accidental starting. Thoroughly inspect the cultivator for any damage, and
repair the damage before restarting and
operating it.
S If cultivator should start to vibrate abnor-
mally, stop engine and check immediately
for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
S Stop the engine whenever you leave the
operating position. Also, disconnect the
spark plug wire before unclogging the tines
and when making any repairs, adjustments, or inspections.
S When cleaning, repairing, or inspecting,
shut off the engine and make certain all
moving parts have stopped.
S Never attempt to make any adjustments
while the engine is running except when
specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
MS−3615MA
7
SAFETY RULES
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
IMPORTANT: Many of the following symbols are located on your unit or on literature supplied with the product. Before you operate the unit, learn and understand the purpose for
each symbol.
Control And Operating Symbols
Choke OFF
Half Choke
SlowFast
Safety Warning Symbols
WARNING
Thrown Objects.
Keep Bystanders Away.
IMPORTANT
Read Owner’s Manual
Before Operating
This Machine.
Contents of Parts Bag
1 − 10-16 x 1-1/2 inch
Screw
FuelOil
Rotating Parts. Stop Engine.
Disconnect Spark Wire Before
WARNING
Making Adjustments.
WARNING
Wear Eye Protection
Full Choke
WARNING
STOP
MS−3615MA
1 − Tie Strap
8
ASSEMBLY
-
ASSEMBLY
PARTS PACKED SEPARATELY
IN CARTON
1 − Owner’s Manual (not shown)
1 − Upper Handle
1 − Right Lower Handle
1 − LeftLower Handle
1 − Parts Bag
WARNING: Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while as
sembling the cultivator.
Figure 1 shows the cultivator completely assembled.
References to the right or left side of the cultivator are from the viewpoint of the operator’s position behind the unit.
HOW TO REMOVE THE
CULTIVATOR FROM THE CARTON
1. Remove the parts bag from the carton.
2. Remove the handles from the carton.
3. Remove the packing material positioned
around the unit.
4. Lift the cultivator out of the carton and
place on a hard level surface.
5. Remove the packing material from the
tines.
Figure 1
HOW TO
ASSEMBLE THE HANDLE
The lower handles have a short bend at the
bottom and have been flattened at the top.
1. Unwind the throttle control from around
the engine. Straighten the throttle cable.
Make sure that you do not bend or kink
the cable.
2. Remove the locknuts, spacers, andscrews from the tine shield (see
Figure 2).
MS−3615MA
9
Spacers
Locknuts
SpacersTine Shield
Bolts
Figure 2
3. Insert the right lower handle into the
ASSEMBLY
mounting channel (see Figure 3). Make
sure the flat end at the top of the handle
is facing inward.
4. Mount a spacer on each screw. Push
the screws through the tine shield, the
lower handle, and half way through the
engine casing (see Figure 4).
5. Insert the left lower handle into themounting channel (see Figure 3). Make
sure the flat end at the top of the handle
is facing inward.
6. Push the screws through the engine
casing, the lower handle, and the tine
shield. Secure with spacers and locknuts as shown in Figure 4. Do not tight-
en at this time.
Right Lower
Handle
Mounting Channel
Left Lower
Handle
Figure 3
7. Remove the fasteners from the upperhandle (see Figure 5).
8. Assemble the upper handle to the lower
handles with the fasteners removed in
step 7.
9. Tighten the knobs.
NOTE: To tighten the knobs, hold the
curved carriage bolt head against the
outside of the lower handle as you
tighten the knobs.
10. Tighten the locknuts that hold the ends
of the lower handles (see Figure 4).
Tighten only enough to firmly hold the
handles.
CAUTION: Over tightening the locknuts can change the shape of the handle and damage the engine casing.
11. Mount the throttle control on the right
side of the upper handle with the screw
as shown in Figure 5.
12. Attach the throttle control cable to the
lower handle with the cable fastener.
Make sure the throttle control cable is
routed to the outside of the handles.
MS−3615MA
Screw
Throttle Control
10
Spacer
Screw
Carriage Bolt
Cable Fastener
Spacer
Tine Shield
Upper Handle
Curved
Washer
Locknut
Figure 4
Flat
Washer
Knob
Figure 5
ASSEMBLY
n CHECKLIST
For the best performance and satisfaction
from this quality product, please review the
following checklist before you operate the
cultivator:
nAll assembly instructions have been
completed.
nCheck carton. Make sure no loose
parts remain in the carton.
nAll fasteners have been properly tight-
ened.
As you learn how to use the cultivator, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
nn Fuel tank is filled with a fresh, clean,
oil and fuel mixture.
nn Become familiar and understand the
function of all controls. Before you
start the engine, operate all controls.
MS−3615MA
11
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR CULTIVATOR
READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE YOU OPERATE the
cultivator. To familiarize yourself with the location of the controls, compare the illustrations with
your cultivator. Save this manual for future reference.
Throttle Control
Lever
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
Depth Stake and
Transport Wheels
Assembly
Throttle Control − Controls the engine
speed and the tine rotation. The cultivator is
equipped with a centrifugal clutch that engages the tine drive system when the engine
speed is increased.
Choke Control Lever − Use to assist
when starting a cold engine.
ON / OFF Switch − The ON position al-
lows the engine to start. The OFF position
stops the engine and keeps the engine from
starting.
ON / OFF
Switch
Compression
Recoil Starter Handle
Release
Fuel Cap
Tine Shield
Tines
Choke Control
Air Cleaner
Figure 6
Recoil Starter Handle − The engine is
equipped with an easy pull recoil starter.
Compression Release − Before each
pull of the recoil starter handle, push the
compression release.
Depth Stake − Mount with the wheels up
to adjust the depth of cut. Also use to help
control the direction and speed of the
cultivator.
Transport Wheels − Mount with the
wheels down when transporting the cultivator.
EYE PROTECTION
Always wear safety glasses. If you wear eye
glasses, put a Wide Vision Safety Mask over
your eye glasses.
MS−3615MA
WARNING: Debris thrown from
the cultivator can result in for-
eign objects being thrown into
the eyes, which can cause severe eye
damage. Always wear safety glasses or
eye shields when operating the cultivator.
12
OPERATION
HOW TO USE THE CULTIVATOR
How To Stop The Cultivator
1. Release the throttle control to stop the
tines.
2. Move the ON/OFF switch, on the engine,
to the OFF position.
How To Set The Depth
Use the depth stake to control the tilling
depth and the forward speed. Set the depthstake or the depth rod to the desired tilling
position as follows:
1. Remove the hairpin and the clevis pin
from the depth stake or depth rod (see
Figure 7).
2. Adjust the depth stake upward to dig
shallower or downward to dig deeper.
3. Reinstall the clevis pin and hairpin.
Depth Stake
Hair Pin
Clevis Pin
Depth Stake
Bracket
Figure 7
How To Operate The Cultivator
1. Start the engine. See “How To Start The
Engine”.
2. Tilt the unit back on the depth stake or
depth rod until the tines are off the
ground. Squeeze the throttle control all
the way up against the hand grip. The
engine is governor controlled and must
be run at full throttle while tilling.
3. Hold the handle firmly and slowly tilt the
unit forward to begin the tilling action.
4. As the tines begin to make contact with
the ground, hold back on the handles so
MS−3615MA
that the tines will dig into the soil and not
ride forward over the ground.
5. Avoid tilling soil that is too dry as it will
pulverize and produce a dust that will not
hold water. Also, tilling soil that is too wet
will be hard on the machine and produce
unsatisfactory clods.
6. Lowering the depth stake will slow the
cultivator and make it till deeper. Raising
the depth bar will allow it to move faster
and till more shallow. See “How To Set
The Depth Stake or Depth Rod”.
WARNING: Keep away from the
rotating tines. Rotating tines
can cause injury.
13
OPERATION
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
FUEL MIXTURE CHART (mixture 24:1)
How To Prepare The Engine
WARNING: Always use a safety
fuel container. Do not smoke
when adding the fuel mixture to
the engine. When inside an enclosure,
do not fill the fuel tank. Before you add
the fuel mixture, stop the engine. Let the
engine cool for several minutes.
How To Mix The Fuel Mixture
The two cycle engine, used on this cultivator,
requires a mixture of gasoline and oil for lubrication of the bearings and other moving
parts. The correct fuel mixture ratio is 24:1
(5.3 oz. oil per one gallon of gas − see the
Fuel Mixture Chart). Gasoline and oil must
be pre−mixed in a clean gasoline container.
Always use fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline.
Mix gasoline and oil as follows:
1. Pour one (1) U.S. quart of fresh, clean,
unleaded automotive gasoline into a one
gallon size gasoline container.
2. Add 5.3 ounces of clean, high quality,
two−cycle oil to the gasoline container.
IMPORTANT: Do not use outboard motor oil or multi−viscosity oils,such as
10W−30 or 10W−40.
3. Install the fuel cap onto the gasoline container. Vigorously shake the gasoline
container to mix the oil with the gasoline.
4. Add an additional three (3) U.S. quarts of
gasoline to the gallon container. Again
shake the gasoline container.
5. This completes the gasoline mixing procedure. The gasoline can now be added
to the fuel tank.
U.S.
SI. (Metric
GASOILGASOIL
1 Gal.5.3 oz.4 Liters.167 L
2 Gal.11 oz.8 Liters.333 L
5 Gal.27 oz.20 Liters.833 L
CAUTION: Gasoline is flammable and caution must be used
when handling or storing it. Do
not fill fuel tank while cultivator is running, hot, or when cultivator is in an enclosed area. Keep away from open
flame, electrical spark, and do not
smoke while mixing fuel or filling the
fuel tank. Never fill fuel tank completely;
but fill the tank to within 1/2 inch from
the top to provide space for expansion
of fuel. Always fill fuel tank outdoors
and use a funnel or spout to prevent
spilling. Make sure to wipe up any
spilled fuel before starting engine.
CAUTION: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisture which
leads to separation and formation 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 storage for 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 season.
See Storage Instructions for additional
information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage can occur.
Do not fill the fuel tank with gasoline that does not have oil mixed in it. Shake the
gasoline container before each filling of the fuel tank.
Add more gas
(3 U. S. Quarts)
14
MS−3615MA
OIl
(5.3 oz)
Gasoline
1U.S.
Quart
1 U.S. Gallon container
Shake Can
1 U.S.
Gallon
Special
Gasoline
Figure 8
OPERATION
-
HOW TO START THE ENGINE
Before you start the engine, make sure that
you have read and understand all the instructions on the preceding pages.
WARNING: Do not touch the
throttle control while starting
the engine. The cultivator will
propel itself if the engine speed is advanced from idle.
1. Fill the fuel tank to 1/2 inch below the bottom of the fill neck. Reinstall the fuel tank
cap securely. Always use fresh fuel. Never use fuel that could be stale from long
periods of storage.
2. Move the on−off switch to the ON position
(see Figure 9).
3. If the engine is cold, move the choke control to the FULL CHOKE position (all the
way down).
NOTE: Do not choke a hot or warm
engine.
4. Put the unit firmly on the tines in an open
area away from by−standers.
5. Push the compression release and hold
the right handle firmly with your left hand.
CAUTION: DO NOT start the engine
without FIRST pushing in the yellow
compression relief valve. Failure to
do so can result in bruised fingers
and sudden equipment movement
which could result in minor or moderate injury.
6. Hold the rope handle with your right hand
and pull to start the engine.
7. If the engine does not start, do not repeat
steps 5 and 6 more than three times before you move the choke off or on.
8. When the engine starts, move the choke
lever to the HALF CHOKE position. When
the engine runs smoothly, move the
choke lever to the NO CHOKE position.
NOTE: If the tines do not stop when
the throttle control is released, adjust
the carburetor idle speed. See “How
To Adjust The Carburetor” in the Service And Adjustments section.
9. To stop the engine, release the throttle
control and move the on−off switch to the
OFF position.
10. If the engine becomes flooded remove
and dry the spark plug. See “Spark Plug
Maintenance” in the Maintenance section
of this manual. Then, pull the starter rope
with the choke lever in the NO CHOKE
position.
WARNING: The muffler and sur
rounding areas become hot after running the engine. Avoid
these areas.
MS−3615MA
ON / OFF
Switch
Compression
Release
15
Recoil Starter Handle
No Choke
Half Choke
Full Choke
Choke Control
Cleaner
Figure 9
Air
OPERATION
CULTIVATING TIPS
STilling is digging in, turning over and
breaking up packed soil before planting.
Loose unpacked soil helps root growth.
Best tilling depth is 4 to 6 inches. A tiller
will also clear the soil of unwanted vegetation. The decomposition of this vegetation matter enriches the soil. Depending
on the climate (rainfall and wind), it may
be advisable to till the soil at the end of
the growing season to further condition
the soil.
SAvoid tilling soil that is too dry as it will
pulverize and produce a dust that will not
hold water. Also, tilling soil that is too wet
will be hard on the machine and produce
unsatisfactory clods.
SIf the cultivator stops forward motion and
tries to dig deeper than necessary, move
the handles from side to side to start forward motion.
SCultivating is loosening or digging
around growing plants which allows the
plants to flourish.
SWhen using the cultivator to remove
weeds, it is best to cultivate no deeper
than 1−1/2 inches. Cultivating deeper will
only pull to the surface ungerminated
weed seeds. Raising the depth stake will
allow it to move faster and till more shallow.
SBetter growth will be obtained if an area
is tilled properly and used soon after tilling to preserve the moisture content.
SThe depth stake (on the back of the culti-
vator) serves a dual purpose. It helps
regulate the depth of the cut and also
acts as a brake to help the operator control the speed of the cultivator.
SLowering the depth stake will slow the
cultivator and make it till deeper. Raising
the depth stake will allow it to move faster and till more shallow.
HINTS FOR DEPTH STAKE OR
WHEEL ADJUSTMENT
Light cultivation (about 1 to 2 inches
depth) with moderate growth
Adjust the wheels upward to their highest or
next to their highest position. Make sure the
handles are at a comfortable height for operating the cultivator.
SWhen cultivating around plants or close
areas, you may want to remove the outside tines. See “Tine Replacement” in
the Service/Adjustments section.
WARNING: Read the Owner’s
manual. Know location and
functions of all controls. Keep
all safety devices and shields in place.
Never allow children or uninstructed
adults to operate cultivator. Shut off engine before unclogging tines or making
repairs. Keep bystanders away from machine. Keep away from rotating parts
and tines. They can cause injury.
Seed bed preparation (4 to 6 inches
depth)
Use the depth stake. Adjust the depth stake
downward for deeper cultivation.
Heavy soil (4 inch depth or greater)
Remove the depth stake and work the tines
down with a back and forth motion to at least
a depth of 4 inches. Slowly pull the cultivator
backward allowing the soil to feed forward
over the tines.
MS−3615MA
16
MAINTENANCE
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
SERVICE RECORDS
Fill in dates as you
complete regular
service.
Tighten All Screws and
Nuts
Lubricate Tine Shaft
Lubricate Transmission
Check Spark Plug
Clean and Oil Air Cleaner
Filter
Clean Cylinder Exhaust
Ports
Drain Fuel
Before
Each
Use
√√
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Model No.:See Nameplate
Date Of Purchase:
Horse Power:2
Displacement:3.0 cu. in.
Gasoline Capacity: 20 oz.
Fuel/Oil Mix Ratio: 24:1 Oil To Gas
Spark Plug:Champion
Spark Plug Gap:0.035 inch
Idle RPM:1700−3000
(49.2 cc.)
(5.3 oz. oil to 1 gal. gas
(use unleaded regular)
RCJ−8Y
After
First
2
Hours
Every
Hours
Every
25
Hours
Before
75
Storage
Before
Each
Season
SERVICE
DATES
√√
√√
√√
√
√
√
√
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this cultivator does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value
from the warranty, the operator must maintain the cultivator as instructed in this
manual.
Some adjustments must be made periodically to properly maintain your cultivator.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual must be
checked at least once each season.
MS−3615MA
17
MAINTENANCE
LUBRICATION
Every 25 hours and/or at the beginning of
each season, make sure the gear box is
filled with lubricant (see Figure 10). Tubes of
gear lubricant are available from most automotive supply stores. Use portable tool
grease such as Lubriplate 630AA (Product
No. 06787, 1−3/4 oz. tube) or Lubriplate
GR−132 (Product No. 15892, 10 oz. tube).
After cleaning and before storage, apply oil
to the tine shaft (see Figure 10).
WARNING: Allow the transmission to cool before filling with
grease.
1. Remove both left side tines. See “How
To Replace The Tines” in the Service
and Adjustments section.
2. Remove the air vent screw (see
Figure 10).
3. Mount a grease gun onto the grease fit-ting. Fill the transmission until the
grease begins to come out of the air vent
screw hole.
4. Reinstall the air vent screw.
5. Check the condition of the felt washer
(see Figure 10). Replace the felt wash-
er if it is damaged (see the Repair Parts
section in this manual).
6. Clean and lubricate the tine shaft with a
few drops of oil.
7. Reinstall the left side tines.
8. Remove the right side tines. Check the
felt washer for damage. Clean and oil
the tine shaft. Reinstall the right side
tines.
Air Vent Screw
Tine
Shaft
Felt
Washer
Grease Fitting
Figure 10
HOW TO CLEAN THE TINES
Always remove dirt and debris from the cultivator after each use. Remove any string,
wire or vegetation that may become lodged
in the mechanism and stop the tines from
rotating.
1. Release the throttle control and move
the on−off switch to the OFF position.
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the
spark plug.
2. While wearing gloves, remove the latchpins that secure the tine assemblies to
the shaft (see Figure 11). Remove the
tines from the shaft.
3. Remove any lodged debris from the
shaft and tines. Clean and lubricate the
tine shaft with a few drops of oil.
4. Reassemble the tines on the shaft and
secure with the latch pins.
5. Connect the spark plug wire to the spark
plug.
MS−3615MA
18
Tine
Latch Pin
.
Figure 11
MAINTENANCE
SPARK PLUG
Check the spark plug every 25 hours. Re-
place the spark plug if the electrodes are
pitted or burned or if the porcelain is
cracked.
1. Make sure the spark plug is clean.
Clean the spark plug by carefully scraping the electrodes (do not sand blast or
use a wire brush).
2. Check the spark plug gap with a feelergauge. See “Product Specifications” for
the correct spark plug gap and replacement spark plug.
3. Before installing the spark plug, coat
the threads lightly with oil for easy removal. Tighten the spark plug to a torque
of 15 foot−pounds.
Feeler Gauge
0.035”
Spark Plug
Figure 12
HOW TO CLEAN THE AIR FILTER
The engine uses a foam air filter that can be
cleaned and reused. Clean and oil the air
filter every 25 hours. Clean more often in
dusty conditions. Remove and clean the air
filter as follows:
CAUTION: Never run the engine without
the air filter installed. An air filter clogged
with dust can result in loss of engine
power and can cause excessive wear or
damage to the engine. If the air filter is
clogged, clean or replace immediately.
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the
spark plug.
2. Remove the screws from the air filter
cover (see Figure 13). Remove the air
filter cover and the air filter.
3. Wipe the cover and the inside of the air
filter housing with a clean cloth.
4. Clean the air filter in a solution of water
and household detergent. Rinse thoroughly in clean water.
5. Wrap the air filter in a dry clean cloth.
Squeeze out (do not twist) all solution
until dry.
6. Cover the outside of the air filter with
oil. Use the same type of oil as used to
make the fuel mixture. Lightly squeeze
the air filter to distribute and remove
any excess oil.
7. Put the clean air filter into the air filterhousing.
8. Install the air filter cover and secure
with the screws as shown.
9. Connect the spark plug wire to the spark
plug.
Air Filter
Cover
Filter Housing
Screw
Figure 13
CYLINDER EXHAUST PORTS
Clean the cylinder exhaust ports after every
75 hours of operation. For this procedure, we
recommend that you take your unit to a Authorized Service Center.
MS−3615MA
19
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT
HOW TO REMOVE AND INSTALL THE TINES
References to the right or left side of the cultivator are from the viewpoint of the operator’s position behind the unit.
All four tines are different and cannot be interchanged. The tines must be correctly
installed or the cultivator will not function
properly.
To till around plants or in small areas, the
outside tines can be removed to reduce the
tilling width to approximately 7 inches.
WARNING: The tines are self
sharpening and will become
quite sharp from use. Handle
carefully.
The tines will all wear evenly. If the tines are
being replaced because of wear, we recommend that all four tines be replaced at the
same time. To replace the tines, do the following:
Tine Removal
1. Put the on−off switch in the OFF position.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the
spark plug.
3. While wearing gloves, remove the latchpins that secure the tine assemblies to
the shaft (see Figure 14). Remove the
tines from one side of the unit.
Tine Installation
1. Clean and lubricate the tine shaft with a
few drops of oil.
2. First, install the inside tines onto the tine
shafts. Next, install the outside tines
onto the tine shafts and secure with the
latch pins.
3. When the tines are properly installed, the
cutting tips on the outside tines will all
curve toward the inside. The letter R will
be visible on the outside of the right tine
(see Figure 14). The letter L will be visible on the outside of the left tine.
NOTE: Make sure the tines are installed
on the correct side of the unit.
Latch Pin
MS−3615MA
R
Inside Tine
Outside Tine
.
Figure 14
20
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT
HOW TO ADJUST THE CARBURETOR
A dirty air cleaner will cause the engine to
run improperly or to smoke excessively. Before adjusting the carburetor, make sure the
air cleaner is clean. Never make unnecessary adjustments to the carburetor. The carburetor was set at the factory to operate
efficiently under most applications. However,
if adjustments are required, we recommend
you contact an Authorized Service Center. If
you feel that you are competent to make carburetor adjustment proceed as follows.
1. Lower the wheels to the transport position.
2. Locate the idle speed adjustment
screw (see Figure 15). Turn the idle adjustment screw 1/4 turn counterclock-
wise (to the left).
3. Start the engine and release the throttle
control.
4. Tilt the cultivator back on the wheels or
stake so that the tines are off the ground.
In correct adjustment, the tines will not
rotate when the throttle is released. If the
tines turn, repeat step 2.
WARNING: The engine governor is set at the factory. Do not
change the governor setting.
Over speeding the engine above the factory setting can be dangerous. If you
think the engine governor needs an adjustment, contact an Authorized Service
Center.
MS−3615MA
Carburetor
Idle Speed
Adjustment Screw
Carburetor is located between the fuel
tank/air filter and the engine.
Engine Shown With Fuel Tank Removed
21
Figure 15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT
-
-
STORAGE
WARNING: Never store the cul
tivator indoors with fuel in the
fuel tank. Never store in an enclosed, poorly ventilated area where
fumes could reach an open flame, a
spark or a pilot light as on a furnace, water heater or clothes dryer.
WARNING: Do not remove gas
oline while inside a building,
near a fire, or while you smoke.
Gasoline fumes can cause an explosion
or a fire.
When the cultivator is put in storage for thirty
days or more, follow the steps below to
make sure the cultivator is in good condition
the following season.
Cultivator
SCompletely clean the cultivator.
SRemove the tines. Clean and apply oil to
the tine shafts. Mount the tines onto the
tine shafts. See “How To Remove And
Install The Tines” in the Service And Adjustments section.
SLoosen the knobs that secure the upper
handle to the lower handle. Carefully fold
the upper handle. Make sure the throttle
cable is not bent. Tighten the knobs.
SThe cross piece of the upper handle (be-
tween the lower handles) can now be
used as a carry handle. To store the cultivator up off the floor and out of the way,
the cross piece can also be hooked over
a wall hook.
SPut the cultivator in a building that has
good ventilation.
SCover the cultivator with a suitable pro-
tective cover that does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic.
IMPORTANT: Never cover the cultivator
while the engine and exhaust areas are
still warm.
NOTE: A yearly checkup or tune−up by a
Authorized Service Center is a good way
to make sure that your cultivator will provide maximum performance for the next
season.
Engine
WARNING: Store gasoline in a
clean, approved container, and
keep the cap in place on the
container. Keep gasoline in a cool, well
ventilated place; never in the house.
Never buy more than a 30 day supply of
gasoline to assure volatility. Gasoline is
intended to be used as a fuel for internal
combustion engines; therefore, do not
use gasoline for any other purpose.
Since many children like the smell of
gasoline, keep it out of their reach because the fumes are dangerous to inhale, as well as being explosive.
CAUTION: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol, ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisture which
leads to separation and formation 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 storage for 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 season.
See Storage Instructions for additional
information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage can occur.
To prevent engine damage when the cultivator is in storage for 30 days or more, follow
the steps below:
SLet the engine run until it is out of gaso-
line.
SSlowly pull the starter handle until you
feel resistance due to compression in
the cylinder, then stop.
SSlowly release the starter rope. This
position will close both the intake and the
exhaust ports and help prevent corrosion
of the piston and cylinder.
MS−3615MA
22
TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
TROUBLECAUSECORRECTION
Engine difficult to start
or
Engine runs erratically
or
Engine will not run at full
speed
Engine speed does not
increase properly
Engine smokes
excessively
Tines continue to rotate
when throttle control is
released
Tines will not turnDebris lodged in tineRemove debris. See “How
Stale fuel mixtureDrain fuel tank. Fill with fresh
Too much oil in fuel mixtureCheck fuel mixture chart and
Dirt in fuel tank or out of fuelClean fuel tank.
Carburetor out of adjustmentSee Carburetor Adjustment
Fouled spark plugClean and set spark plug
Dirty air filterClean and oil air filter.
Debris interfering with throttle
linkage
Plugged air filter
Too much oil in fuel mixture
Carburetor out of adjustmentAdjust carburetor idle speed.
fuel mixture.
mix fresh fuel.
section.
gap.
Clean dirt and debris off top
of carburetor.
Clean and oil air filter.
Check fuel mix chart and mix
fresh fuel.
See “How To Adjust The
Carburetor” in the
Maintenance section.
To Clean The Tines” in the
Maintenance section.
Unit does not till properlyIncorrect tine installationCheck the tines for proper
MS−3615MA
23
installation. See “How To
Remove And Install The
Tines” in the Service And
Adjustments section.