Mantis 7234 DELUXE Owner's Manual

7234 DELUXE 2-CYCLE TILLER/CULTIVATOR

OWNER’S MANUAL

IMPORTANT!

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS START ON PAGE 5!

PLEASE REVIEW THE WARNING & SAFETY INFORMATION ON PAGES 3-4

AND THE ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE UNPACKING THE BOX.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety Rules & Warnings

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3-4

Assembly and Mixing Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12

Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13

Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

What to Do Just in Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-14

Getting to Your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Tilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15

Service Maintenance Guide & Specifications . . .15

Tilling/Cultivating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Tine Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-18

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Trouble Shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

MANTIS Tiller Assembly Layout . . . . . . . . . . .21

Engine Parts Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-24

EPA Phase 2 Emission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Limited Warranty Information . . . . .Back Cover

Here’s your new MANTIS Tiller... the lightweight wonder that “Makes Gardening Easier.”

Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS Tiller weighs only 25 pounds. So it lifts easily, handles smoothly, tills and weeds precisely. And, unlike other small tillers, it features serpentine tines that churn soil up to ten inches deep. It creates a soft, smooth seed bed, even in problem soil.

Once you know how to use your tiller correctly, we guarantee you’ll love it. So first, please read this manual. It shows, step by step, how to use your tiller safely.

If you have questions about any topic in this Manual, or for the name of your local dealer, call 1-800-366-6268 toll free, Monday - Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

Attention Mantis Product

Owners! Get maintenance tips

for your Mantis product on our

website at www.mantis.com

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF MANTIS GARDENING!

SAFETY RULES & WARNINGS

You will notice throughout this Owners Manual Safety Rules and Important Notes. Make sure you understand and obey these warnings for your own protection.

I. Special Safety Information

WARNING • DANGER

ATTENTION: THIS SYMBOL POINTS

OUT OUR IMPORTANT

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL,

HEED IT’S WARNING!! STAY ALERT!!

WARNING • DANGER

TO REDUCE THE POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENTS,

COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

IN THIS MANUAL.

FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS

PERSONAL INJURY, AND/OR EQUIPMENT

AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.

WARNING • DANGER

IMPROPER USE OR CARE OF THIS TILLER OR FAILURE TO WEAR PROPER

PROTECTION CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.

WEAR HEARING AND EYE PROTECTION.

II. Safety & Warnings

! !

WARNING

The Engine Exhaust from this

product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

DON’T FUEL, REFUEL, OR CHECK FUEL WHILE SMOKING, OR NEAR AN OPEN FLAME OR OTHER IGNITION SOURCE.

MIX UNLEADED GAS WITH 2 CYCLE 50:1 OIL.

INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.

CAUTION: WHEN ASSEMBLING THE HANDLES, MAKE SURE FUEL TANK FACES OPERATOR. THIS IS THE REAR OF THE TILLER, REFER TO ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTION ON PAGE 7.

CUTTING HAZARD; KEEP FEET AND HANDS AWAY FROM ROTATING TINES.

WEAR EAR AND EYE PROTECTION.

READ OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE USING TILLER, OR PERFORMING ANY REPAIR OR MAINTENANCE. KEEP OWNERS MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE.

DO NOT CARRY THE TILLER IN THIS POSITION.

An important part of the safety system incorporated in this tiller are the warning and information decals found on various parts of the tiller. These decals must be replaced in time due to abrasion, etc. It is your responsibility to replace these decals when they

become hard to read. The location and part numbers (P/N) of these decals are illustrated on Page 16.

III. Safety Decal Information

WARNING • DANGER

IF THE TILLER IS USED IMPROPERLY OR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT FOLLOWED,

THE USERS RISK SERIOUS INJURY TO THEMSELVES AND OTHERS. READ AND

UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS TILLER.

WARNING • DANGER

OPERATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT MAY CREATE SPARKS THAT CAN START FIRES AROUND DRY VEGETATION. A SPARK ARRESTOR IS INSTALLED. THE OPERATOR

SHOULD CONTACT LOCAL FIRE AGENCIES FOR LAWS OR REGULATIONS RELATING

TO FIRE PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS.

DON’T OPERATE INDOORS

PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY

The 300 hour emission durability compliance period is the time span selected by the manufacturer certifying the engine emissions output meets applicable emissions regulations, provided that approved maintenance procedures are followed as listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.

An Emission Control Label is

located on the engine (This is an EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies by engine FAMILY.)

EMISSION CONTROL

The emission control system for the engine is EM/TWC (Engine Modification and 3-way Catalyst) and for the fuel tank the Control System is EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) or N (for nylon tank). Evaporative emission may be applicable to California models only.

P/N 400630

P/N 430057

V. Warnings - Don'ts

Don’t use tiller with one hand.

Keep

both hands on handles with

fingers and thumbs encircling the handles, while tines are moving, and engine is running.

Don’t overreach. Keep a good footing at all times.

Don’t run with the machine, walk.

Don’t work on excessively steep slopes.

Don’t attempt to clear tines while they are moving. Never try to remove jammed material before switching the engine off and making sure the tines have stopped completely.

Don’t allow children or incapable people to operate this tiller.

Don’t operate while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Don’t attempt to repair this tiller. Have repairs made by a qualified dealer or repairman. See that only original MANTIS parts are used.

WARNING • DANGER

HANDLE FUEL WITH CARE, IT IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. FUELING A HOT ENGINE OR NEAR AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN

CAUSE A FIRE AND RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

Always use fresh gasoline in the fuel

mixture. Stale gasoline can cause damage.

Always store fuel in containers

specifically designed for this purpose.

Always pull starter cord slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull cord rapidly to avoid kickback and prevent arm or hand injury.

Always operate engine with spark arrestor installed and operating properly. The use of spark arrestor mufflers is required by law in the state of California (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code), as well as in other states or municipalities. Federal laws apply on federal lands.

Stop the engine whenever you leave the

machine.

Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

If the fuel tank needs to be drained, this should be done outdoors.

Don’t

fuel, refuel or check fuel while smoking, or near an open flame or other ignition source. Stop engine and be sure it is cool before refueling.

Don’t

leave the engine running while the tiller is unattended. Stop engine before putting the tiller down or while transporting from one place to another.

Don’t

refuel, start or run this tiller indoors or in an improperly ventilated area.

Don’t

run engine when electrical system

causes spark outside the cylinder. During periodical checks of the spark plug, keep plug a safe distance from cylinder to avoid burning of evaporated fuel from cylinder.

Don’t

check for spark with spark plug or

plug wire removed. Use an approved tester.

Don’t

crank engine with spark plug removed unless spark plug wire is disconnected. Sparks can ignite fumes.

Don’t

run engine when the odor of gas oline

is present or other explosive conditions exist.

Don’t

operate the unit if gasoline is spilled. Clean up spill completely before starting engine.

Don’t

operate your tiller if there is an accumulation of debris around the muffler, and cooling fins.

Don’t

touch hot mufflers, cylinders or cooling fins as contact may cause serious burns.

Don’t change the engine governor

setting or over speed the engine.

VI. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Do’s

VII. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Don’ts

IV. Warnings - Do’s

Read and understand the owner’s manual. Pay particular attention to all sections regarding safety.

1. Always keep a firm grip on both handles while the tines are moving and/or the engine is running. BE AWARE!! The tines may coast after throttle trigger is released. Make sure tines have come to a complete stop and engine is off before letting go of the tiller.

2. Always maintain a firm footing and good balance. Do not overreach while operating the tiller. Before you start to use the tiller check the work area for obstacles that might cause you to lose your footing, balance or control of the machine.

3. Thoroughly inspect the area where equipment is to be used and remove all objects, which can be thrown by the machine.

4. Always keep area clear of children, pets, and bystanders.

5. Always stay alert. Watch what you

are doing and use common sense. Do not operate unit when fatigued.

6. Always dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry, they might get caught in moving parts. Use sturdy gloves. Gloves reduce the transmission of vibration to your hands. Prolonged exposure to vibration can cause numbness and other ailments.

7. While working, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

8. Always wear ear and eye protection. Eye protection must meet ANSI Z 87.1. To avoid hearing damage, we recommend hearing protection be worn whenever using the equipment.

9. To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, and petrol/gas storage area free of vegetative material and excessive grease.

10. Start the engine carefully, according to the manufacturer’s instructions and with feet well away from tool(s).

11. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight

to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

12. Use extreme caution when reversing

or pulling the machine towards you.

13. Work only in daylight or good

artificial light.

14. Always be sure of your footing on

slopes.

15. Exercise extreme caution when

changing direction on slopes.

16. Always keep a safe distance between two or more people when working together.

17. Always inspect your unit before each use and ensure that all handles, guards and fasteners are secure, operating, and in place.

18. Always maintain and examine your Tiller with care. Follow mainten ance instructions given in manual.

19. Always store tiller in a sheltered area (a dry place), not accessible to children. The tiller as well as fuel should not be stored in a house.

Removing Parts From Box

ASSEMBLY

Step 1

It is best to assemble the tiller on a hard flat surface such as a garage floor or driveway.

Step 2

Open top of shipping carton.

Your MANTIS

Tiller comes partially assembled. The full assembly will take just a few minutes if you follow the directions correctly.

Step 5

Remove component parts and lay on flat surface.

Step 3 Step 4

Remove tine box and oil.

Remove cardboard insert.

Step 6 Step 7 Step 8

Lay box on wide flat side.

Open bottom of the box and lift box flaps up.

Return box to the standing position.

Do not remove upper right throttle handle assembly and engine portion of the tiller in this step.

Helpful Hint 1

Keep like items together.

Helpful Hint 2

CAUTION

When removing tine box, handle the box with extreme caution, Tines are sharp and can come through the cardboard box.

Ratchet

7/16” Wrench

3/8” Wrench

Extension

7/16” Socket

TOOLS NEEDED

WARNING • DANGER

IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THIS TILLER CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY. MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT 1-800-366-6268 OR AN AUTHORIZED MANTIS DEALER.

ASSEMBLY (continued)

Step 9

Pull box straight up.

The right handle, additional parts and tiller engine will be in the box cradle.

Do not remove the cardboard cradle from around the tiller base. The cradle will make the assembly process easier for you.

Helpful Hint

Parts List

Lower Handle Assembly

Upper Handle Assembly

Key Qty. Part No. Description

A 1 N/A Transmission and Engine assembly

1 430023 Loop handle right half

C 1 430022 Loop handle left half

D 1 430025 Loop handle grip

E 1 430051 Lower handle, right

F 1 430050 Lower handle, left

G2 4049

3.25” Bolts

H 4 972 1/4-20 Two-way lock nut

I 1 430049 Carry Handle (with grip)

J 2 144-2 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex head cap screws

J – 1/4-20 x

1-1/8 Hex head cap screws

H – 1/4-20

Two-way lock nut

B, C – Loop Handle

G – 3.25” Bolts

D – Loop handle grip

I – Carry Handle w/grip

E, F – Lower Handle

A – Transmission and

Engine Assembly

E – Right

B – Right

F– Left

C – Left

Key Qty. Part No. Description

H 2 972 1/4-20 Two-way lock nut

2 144-2 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex head cap screws

K 1 430003 Trigger handle assembly, right

L 1 430006 Handle assembly, left

M 1 430053 Middle handle, right

N 1 430052 Middle handle, left

O 1 430021 Handle brace

P 2 430038 Knob– 1/4-20 x 1.5 male

Q4 400523

Knob, two prongs, female

R 2 430039 Carriage bolt 1/4-20 x 2.25”

S 2 430048 Curved head bolt, 1/4-20x2”

T 2 395 Acorn nut

U 2 478 Throttle Clip

J –

1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex

head cap screws

H – 1/4-20

Two-way lock nut

S – Curved

Head Bolts

T – Acorn

Nuts

U – Throttle Clips

R – Carriage

Bolts

Q – Knobs, Two-

Prong female

O – Handle Brace

M, N –Middle

handles

P – Knob 1/4-20

x 1.5 male

K, L – Handle Assembly

K-Right

L-Left

M-Right

N-Left

ASSEMBLY (continued)

Lower Handle Assembly

Parts Needed:

Tine Assembly

Kickstand Assembly

Step 1

Layout parts.

Step 4

Slide lower left handle onto 3.25” bolts.

Lower Tiller Assembly should look like above.

Finger tighten nuts and bolts.

Slide left loop handle (C) into grip (D) and into right loop handle (B).

Step 3

Place right lower handle assembly onto unit as shown above.

Step 2

• Insert grip (D) onto the Right Loop Handle (B)

• Line up holes on Right Loop Handle (B) and Lower Right Handle (E)

• Place (2) 3.25” bolts (G) through holes.

One side only at a time.

Helpful Hint

Finger tight is one half

to one full turn.

Helpful Hint

Keep throttle cable out of the way.

Helpful Hint

Hold bolts on right side as you put left side onto the bolts.

Helpful Hint

B, C – Loop Handle

B – Right

C – Left

D – Loop handle grip

H – 1/4-20

Two- way lock nut

G – 3.25” Bolts

E, F –

Lower Handle

E – Right

F– Left

Z – Kickstand Brace Kit

Y – Kickstand

Key Qty. Part No. Description

Y1 410158 Stand

1 430037 Kickstand Brace Kit

X – Tine Retaining pinsV, W – Tines

Key Qty. Part No. Description

V 1 438RA Tine assembly, right

1 438LA Tine assembly, left

X 2 418-1 Tine retaining pins

A – T

ransmission and

Engine Assembly

Carry Handle Assembly

ASSEMBLY (continued)

Step 5

Place Carry Handle (I) on lower handle bars and line up holes for bolts.

Place (2) 1-1/8” bolts (J) through holes and finger tighten. 1/4-20 two-way lock nuts (H).

Hex head cap screws go on the inside and nuts go on the outside.

Helpful Hint

Use tools and tighten all fasteners of the lower portion of the tiller.

(Steps 1 thru 5)

Kickstand Assembly

Step 6

Place kickstand brace on top portion of lower handle with the stamped arrow pointing up.

Fully assembled lower portion of the tiller.

Place kickstand below lower handle so the holes of the kickstand line up with the kickstand brace (Z). Place (2) 1/4-20 serrated flange screws (Za) through the holes in the top brace and tread into kickstand (Y).

Tighten kickstand (Y) and kickstand brace (Z) with (2) 1/4-20 serrated flange screws (Za) using 3/8” wrench.

Ratchet

7/16” Wrench

Extension

7/16” Socket

Parts Needed:

I – Carry Handle w/grip

J – 1/4-20 x

1-1/8 Hex head cap screws

H – 1/4-20

Two-way lock nut

Z – Kickstand Brace Kit

Y – Kickstand

IMPORTANT

+ 18 hidden pages

Mantis 7234 DELUXE Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual