Mantis 7234, 7264 Parts Manual

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Page 1

OPERATOR / PARTS MANUAL

DELUXE 2-CYCLE TILLER

7234

DELUXE 4-CYCLE TILLER

7264

2-Cycle– 7234 4-Cycle– 7264

Assembly Instructions Start on Page 7!

Please review the Warning & Safety Information on Pages 4-6

and the Assembly Instructions before unpacking the box.

IMPORTANT!

Page 2

Welcome to the World of Mantis Gardening

Here’s your new MANTIS Tiller . . . the lightweight wonder that’s Changing the Way Americans Garden.®

Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS Tiller weighs only 26 pounds. So it lifts easily, handles smoothly, tills and weeds precisely. And, unlike other small tillers, it features serpentine tines that churn soil 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 ﬁ rst, please read this manual. It shows, step by step, how to use your tiller safely.

ATTENTION MANTIS PRODUCT OWNERS! Get maintenance tips for your Mantis

product on our web site at www.mantis.com

2-Cycle– 7234

4-Cycle– 7264

2 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 3

IMPORTANT MESSAGE

Thank you for purchasing this Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product. Y ou have purchased a world class product, one of the best designed and built anywhere.

This machine comes with Operation and Safety instructions, Parts and Service instructions and Engine instructions. The useful life and good service you receive from this machine depends to a large extent on how well you read and understand these manuals. Treat your machine properly, lubricate and adjust it as instructed, and it will give you many years of reliable service.

Your safe use of this Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product is one of our prime design objectives. Many safety features are built in, but we also rely on your good sense and care to achieve accident-free operation. For best protection, study the manuals thoroughly. Learn the proper operation of all controls. Observe all safety precautions. Follow all instructions and warnings completely. Do not remove or defeat any safety features. Make sure those who operate this machine are as well informed and careful in its use as you are.

See a Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. dealer for any service or parts needed. Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. service ensures that you continue to receive the best results possible from Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. products. You can trust Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. replacement parts because they are manufactured with the same high precision and quality as the original parts.

Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. designs and builds its equipment to serve many years in a safe and productive manner. For longest life, use this machine only as directed in the manuals, keep it in good repair and follow safety warnings and instructions. You’ll always be glad you did.

Schiller Grounds Care, Inc.

1028 Street Road

Southampton, PA 18966-4217

PHONE (800) 366-6268 • FAX (215) 956-3855

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

SAFETY RULES & WARNINGS

Special Safety Information .....................................4

Safety & Warnings .................................................4

Safety Decal Information ....................................4-5

Warning Do’s .........................................................5

Warning Don’ts ......................................................6

Engine/Fuel Warning Do’s .....................................6

Engine/Fuel Warning Don’ts ..................................6

ASSEMBL Y ................................................................7

Lower Handle .....................................................8-9

Kickstand ...............................................................9

Tines ....................................................................10

Upper Handle Assembly .................................10-12

Upper Handle Positioning ....................................12

FUELING & STARTING

2-Cycle Fueling & Starting ...................................13

4-Cycle Fueling/Oil & Starting .............................14

4-Cycle Corrective Action ....................................14

OPERATION ........................................................15-16

TRANSPORT ...........................................................17

STORAGE ................................................................17

MAINTENANCE

2-Cycle ................................................................18

4-Cycle ................................................................18

2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Basic Maintenance ................19

MANTIS TILLER ASSEMBLIES

2-Cycle Tiller Assembly .......................................20

4-Cycle Tiller Assembly .......................................21

TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................22

CONTROL ................................................................23

EPA ...........................................................................24

LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION ... BACK PAGE

This Operator / Parts Manual is part of the machine. Suppliers of both new and second-hand machines must make sure that this manual is provided with the machine.

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Page 4

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

Attention: This symbol points out our

important safety instructions.

When you see this symbol,

heed it’s warning!! Stay alert!!

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.

II. SAFETY & WARNINGS

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.

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

III. SAFETY DECAL INFORMATION

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.

2-Cycle

Read owner’s manual before using tiller, or performing any repair or maintenance. Keep owners manual in a safe place.

Wear ear and eye Protection.

P/N 430057

P/N 400630

Cutting hazard; keep feet and hands away from rotating tines.

Caution: when assembling the handles, make sure fuel tank faces operator. This is the rear of the tiller, refer to assembly instruction on page 8-9.

Do not carry the tiller in this position.

Incorrect assembly.

4 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Don’t fuel, refuel, or check fuel while smoking, or near an open ﬂ ame or other ignition source.

Don’t operate indoors

Page 5

4-Cycle

Safety Rules & Warnings

Cutting hazard; keep feet and hands away

P/N 430057

P/N 400631

from rotating tines.

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.

IV. WARNINGS - DO’S

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

1. Always keep a ﬁ rm 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 ﬁ rm 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.

Always wear ear and eye protection. Eye protection must meet applicable CE requirements. To avoid hearing damage, we recommend hearing protection be worn whenever using the equipment.

9. To reduce ﬁ re 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

artiﬁ cial light.

14. Always be sure of your footing on

Wear ear and eye Protection.

Do not carry the tiller in this position.

Read owner’s manual before using tiller, or performing any repair or maintenance. Keep owners manual in a safe place.

Caution: when assembling the handles, make sure fuel tank faces away from operator. This is the rear of the tiller, refer to assembly instruction on page 8-9.

Don’t operate indoors

Operation of this equipment may create sparks

that can start ﬁ res around dry vegetation. A spark

arrestor is installed. The operator should contact

local ﬁ re agencies for laws or regulations relating

to ﬁ re prevention requirements.

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. Keep all knobs, nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

18. Before using your tiller, always visually inspect to see that the tools are not worn or damaged. Replace worn or damaged elements and bolts in sets to preserve balance.

19. Always maintain and examine your Tiller with care. Follow maintenance instructions given in manual.

20. 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.

21. Always keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.

Don’t fuel, refuel, or check fuel while smoking, or near an open ﬂ ame or other ignition source.

Incorrect assembly.

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Page 6

Safety Rules & Warnings

V. WARNINGS - DONT’S

Don’t use tiller with one hand. Keep

both hands on handles with ﬁ ngers and thumbs encircling the handles, while tines are moving, and engine is running.

Don’t run with the machine, walk. Don’t work on excessively steep slopes. Don’t attempt to clear tines while they

Handle fuel with care, it is highly ﬂ ammable. Fueling a hot engine or near an ignition source can

cause a ﬁ re and result in serious personal injury and/or property damage.

VI. ENGINE/FUEL WARNINGS - DO’S

2-Cycle Always

the fuel mixture. Stale gasoline can cause damage.

4-Cycle Always use fresh gasoline.

Always store fuel in containers

speciﬁ cally designed for this purpose. Always add fuel before starting

the engine.

use fresh gasoline in

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 people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the machine. Local regulations can restrict the age of operator.

Always replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.

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

Always operate engine with spark arrestor installed and operating properly.

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

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

Stop the engine whenever you leave the machine and before refueling. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. Replace worn or damaged parts for safety.

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

VII. ENGINE/FUEL WARNINGS - DON’TS

Never pick up or carry a machine while

the engine is running. Don’t fuel, refuel or check fuel while

smoking, or near an open ﬂ ame 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 the engine when carrying out maintenance and cleaning operations, when changing tools and when being transported by means other than under its own power.

Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol while the engine is running or when the engine is hot.

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 gasoline is present or other explosive conditions exist.

Do not attempt to start the engine if petrol is spilled, but move the machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until petrol vapors have dissipated.

Don’t operate your tiller if there is an accumulation of debris around the mufﬂ er, and cooling ﬁ ns. To reduce the ﬁ re hazard, keep the engine and petrol storage area free of vegetative material and excessive grease.

Don’t touch hot mufﬂ ers, cylinders or cooling ﬁ ns as contact may cause serious burns.

Don’t change the engine governor setting or over speed the engine.

Don’t attempt to remove spark plug while engine is hot. Removing a spark plug from a hot engine can cause irreparable damage to the engine and will void your warranty.

Don’t use starter ﬂ uids as they will cause permanent engine damage.

6 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 7

Assembly

K-1

K-2

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.

Bag Contents

L G,H, J, P, Q, R, S, T, X, U

WHAT COMES IN THE BOX

Key Qty. Part No. Description

A 1 N/A Transmission And Engine Assembly B 1 430023 Loop Handle Right Half C 1 430022 Loop Handle Left Half D 1 430025 Foam Grip E 1 430051 Lower Handle W/Plug, Right F 1 430050 Lower Handle W/Plug, Left G 2 4049 Bolt 1/4-20 X 3.25” H 6 972 1/4-20 Two-Way Lock Nut I 1 430049 Carry Handle With Grip J 4 144-2 1/4-20 X 1.125” Hex Head Cap Screws K-2 1 430003 Trigger Handle Assembly, 2-Cycle Engine, Right K-1 1 430004 Trigger Handle Assembly, 4-Cycle Engine, Right L 1 430006 Handle Assembly , Left M 1 430053 Middle Handle W/Plug, Right N 1 430052 Middle Handle W/Plug, Left O 1 430021 Handle Brace P 2 430038 Knob, 1/4-20 X 1.5 Male Q 4 400523 Knob, Two Prongs, Female R 2 430039 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20 X 2.25” S 2 430048 Curved Head Bolt, 1/4-20 X 2” T 2 395 Acorn Nut U 2 478 Throttle Clip V 1 438RA Tine Assembly, Right W 1 438LA Tine Assembly , Left X 2 418-1 Tine Retaining Pins Y 1 410158 Kickstand, Stand Assembly Z 1 430037 Kickstand, Bracket and Hardware

Congratulations! You have just purchased a super high-quality product, the Mantis Deluxe Tiller/Cultivator.

Whether you have purchased the 2-Stroke or 4-Stroke model, this manual will show you how to Assemble, Start, Operate, Transport, Store and Maintain your Tiller. The Mantis Deluxe Tiller/Cultivator is designed to bring you years of solid, reliable performance.

2-Cycle Tiller 4-Cycle Tiller

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO ASSEMBLE THE TILLER

Prior to removing the contents and assembling, it is important to:

• Have a clean work area.

• Make sure all necessary tools are handy.

• You will need a 7/16” crescent wrench

• A ratchet with an extension

• A 7/16” socket

• A 3/8” socket or crescent wrench.

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Page 8

Assembly

LET’S BEGIN

The following instructions are for the 2-Stroke and 4-Stroke Tiller.

• With the box upright, open the box and remove the tine box and the loose parts that are at the top of the tiller box. Do not remove any other parts in the box.

• Lay the box on one side and open the bottom ﬂ aps.

• Return the box to an upright position (as shown) and pull the box straight up.

• The right handle, additional parts and tiller engine will be in the box cradle. Leave the engine and throttle in the cradle to assist in the assembly.

• Lay everything out so you can easily identify the parts (see parts image and list on page 7).

LOWER HANDLE ASSEMBLY

NOTE: Some of the photos in this manual do not represent your 4-Stroke tiller engine. They are for assembly purposes only.

• For ease of assembly and stability it is important that you keep the engine assembly in its cardboard cradle.

• Slide the foam grip onto the right loop handle.

• Line up the holes of the Right Loop Handle with the holes of the Lower Right Handle.

• Slide the two 3.25” bolts through the hole

456

• Position this assembly onto the recessed channels below the engine.

• Slide the lower left handle onto the bolts

• Slide the left loop handle into the

8 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

foam grip and right loop handle

Page 9

LOWER HANDLE ASSEMBLY (CONTINUED)

Assembly

• Slide loop handle through bolts and over top lower left handle, then take two lock nuts and fasten them ﬁ nger tight

2-Cycle Tiller 4-Cycle Tiller

• Place the Carry Handle between the lower handles and line up the holes

• Place two of the 1.125” bolts through holes with hex head on inside of carry handle and with two lock nuts fasten them tight with wrench and socket.

• At this point, your Mantis tiller should look like this when lower handle assembly is complete.

• Use the 7 /16” wrenches and socket to tighten the rest of the handle bolts.

KICKST AND ASSEMBLY

• Position the kickstand brace just above the bend of the lower handles. The stamped arrow should be pointing up

• Position the kickstand under the lower handles, line up the holes and thread the kickstand brace bolts into the kickstand

•Tighten with the 3/8” wrench

• Your Mantis tiller will look like this when lower handle assembly and kickstand is complete.

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Page 10

Assembly

TINE ASSEMBL Y

123

• You’ll need the 2 Tines and the 2 Retaining pins

• Remove the unit from the cardboard cradle and turn the unit slightly on its side

• You will notice that one side of the Tine has a circular hole while the other has a “D” shaped hole.

456

• Attach the Tine so that the circular hole slides onto the axle ﬁ rst.

*NOTE: The Tiller is laying down for assembly purposes only.

See page 14 for important information.

• When the axle protrudes from the other side it will line up perfectly with the “D” shaped hole.

• Slide a Retaining Pin through the hole in the axle to secure the Tine.

• Repeat steps for the other side.

UPPER HANDLE ASSEMBLY

• To assemble the Upper Handles, ﬁ rst put the Kickstand down

• Layout the Middle and Upper Handles and the Handle Brace as shown above

• Take the Right Middle Handle and attach the brace using a hex head cap screw and a 2-way lock nut. Finger tighten.

• Repeat for left side.

10 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 11

Assembly

UPPER HANDLE ASSEMBLY (CONTINUED)

456

• Thread a 2-pronged knob onto

• Take the Right Upper Handle, the one with the throttle, and slide it between the Middle Handle and the lower ﬂ ange of the Brace.

• Insert a curved head bolt into the slot at the bottom of the Upper Handle so that it comes out the top of the Middle Handle.

the bolt two full turns while leaving it loose.

• Repeat for left side.

789

• Line up the top holes of the Upper Handles with the holes on the top of the Brace so the handles are in the lowest position.

• Insert the round knob into the Brace and tighten.

10 11 12

• With a 7/16 in. wrench and socket, tighten the nuts and bolts that hold the Brace onto the handles

• Insert the carriage bolts into the bottom holes of the Upper Handles then through the top holes of the Lower Handles.

• Now fully tighten the lower 2-prong knobs

• Loosely thread the other 2-pronged

knobs onto the carriage bolts

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Page 12

Assembly

UPPER HANDLE ASSEMBLY (CONTINUED)

13 14 15

• Lift the Upper Handles until they line up with the Lower Handles and fully tighten the knobs at the pivot point.

UPPER HANDLE POSITIONING

• Cap the exposed bolts with the acorn nuts and tighten with your 7/16” wrench until snug. Do not over tighten.

• Attach the throttle cable clips to the Upper and Lower Handles. Make sure the cable is not wrapped or twisted and you have the proper throttle movement.

* See important notes listed below.

• Adjust your handle height by loosening the upper 2-prong knobs and removing the round knobs then sliding the Upper Handles to the desired position.

• Then re-insert the round knobs and re-tighten the 2-prong knobs

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Make sure you have installed the handles properly. When you stand behind your tiller, holding the handles, the fender warning label should face you.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Before you use your MANTIS Tiller, read the

Safety Rules & Warnings on pages 4-6

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Be sure you have proper throttle movements and that the throttle cable is not wrapped or twisted

2-Cycle Tiller 4-Cycle Tiller

Improper Throttle installation can cause tines to rotate unexpectedly.

around the handle bar. Hold down the lockout lever, fully squeeze the throttle trigger and let go. The throttle triangle must click in both directions. If there is any doubt, remove air ﬁ lter and visu- ally check that the throttle triangle hits both the idle screw and the full open stop. THIS MUST BE DONE BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE.

12 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 13

2-CYCLE TILLER FUELING ONLY

Before you start your Mantis Deluxe 2-Cycle Tiller/Cultivator for the ﬁ rst time you will need to mix the fuel and oil.

Pour the pre-measured bottle of Mantis approved, 2-Cycle oil into one gallon of 89 octane gasoline and mix well.

Put the kickstand down to position the tiller upright. Remove the fuel cell cap. Carefully add the fuel mixture to the tank until it is about 4/5

full. And remember, always drain the gas when transporting the unit from one location to another.

Replace the cap.

2-CYCLE TILLER STARTING ONLY

The FastStart feature works by winding up the starter coil to store energy in the starting mechanism. The following process will allow you to easily start your Mantis tiller.

Cold Starting

• First make sure the stop/start switch located on the throttle handle, is in the start position, which is indicated by the “I” symbol.

• Close the choke by pulling the choke button out.

• Press the primer bulb approximately 6 times until the bulb is ﬁ lled with gas. Once it is ﬁ lled, press it two more times.

• Pull the starter cord out a few clicks (8 to 12 inches) to store energy in the starting mechanism. Return the starter cord to the original position. Briskly pull the starter cord. The stored energy is released and the engine will start.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

If the engine does not start on the ﬁ rst attempt, repeat the above starting process a maximum of 5 times. If you are still experiencing difﬁ culties, push the choke button in and repeat the above starting process again.

2-Cycle Tiller Fueling & Starting

Switch

• Once it is running, open the choke by pushing the button back in, if you have not already done so.

• To stop the engine, simply push the start / stop switch to the stop position “O”.

• Before using the tiller, let the engine idle for one minute to

warm up. Before shutting it down, let the engine idle for two to three minutes to cool down.

Warm Starting

• To start a warm engine, follow the same procedure. The only exception is that you can leave the choke button in and you don’t have to pump the primer bulb.

• Before using the tiller, let the engine idle for a minute to warm up. Before shutting it down, let the engine idle for two to three minutes to cool down.

Choke

If engine does not stop when switch is put in the stop

position, release the throttle, allow engine to idle, put

the tiller down and pull the choke button out to shut

engine down. Have product serviced before using.

Do not operate the engine in a conﬁ ned

space where dangerous carbon monoxide

fumes can collect.

Fuel is extremely ﬂ ammable. Handle it with

care. Keep away from ignition sources. Do not

smoke while fueling your equipment

Avoid accidental blade engagement.

Do not squeeze the throttle trigger when starting. Main-

tain proper idle speed adjustment (2500-3100 rpm)

13Contact us at www.mantis.com

Page 14

4-Cycle Tiller Fueling & Starting

4-CYCLE TILLER FUELING AND OIL ONLY

IMPORTANT!

It is normal for your 4 stroke engine to smoke for the ﬁ rst minute or two of operation, however it is not necessary for this to occur every time. This is a result of the oil being pulled through the engine for lubrication.

• Rock the tiller forward so that it rests on its front loop handle.

• It is important to position the Mantis Deluxe 4-Cycle Tiller as shown in Figure 1 so the oil will properly ﬁ ll the crankcase. Failure to do so will cause engine damage.

• Remove the oil plug.

• Pour in the bottle of pre-measured, Mantis approved, 4-cycle engine oil.

• Always check the oil level before each use. The oil level should reach the inner ﬁ rst thread of the reservoir. Do not overﬁ ll.

• Replace the oil plug.

• Then return the unit to the upright position and put the kickstand down.

Fueling your Mantis 4 Cycle Deluxe Tiller/Cultivator is easy. Unscrew the gas cap and ﬁ ll the tank about four-ﬁ fths of the way up with 89 octane unleaded gasoline. And remember, always drain the gas when transporting the unit from one location to another.

Figure 1

4-CYCLE TILLER STARTING ONLY

Starting the engine for the ﬁ rst time, or “cold starting”, is easy.

• First, make sure the start/stop switch, located on the throttle handle, is in the start position, which is indicated by the “I” symbol.

• Close the choke by moving the choke lever to the up position.

• Press the primer bulb approximately 6 times until he bulb is ﬁ lled with gas. Once it is ﬁ lled, press it two more times.

• Pull the starter cord lightly until you feel resistance and then give it a short, brisk pull. Your tiller should start immediately. Do not pull the cord all the way out and do not let it snap back into the starter housing.

•

Once it is running, open the choke. Ensure the lever is fully down

• To stop the engine, simply push the start/stop switch to the stop position “O.”

• To start a warm engine, follow the same procedure. Except now you can leave the choke lever in the down position and there is no need to pump the primer bulb.

• Before using the tiller, let the engine run for a minute to warm up. And before shutting it down, let the engine run brieﬂ y to cool down.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Check the oil level in the engine before each use. If

oil is low see your 4 Stroke Tiller Engine Manual and information above for details.

Never use starting ﬂ uids as they will cause permanent engine damage. Using them will void the warranty. Before you use the tiller, read the Safety & Warning rules on pages 4-6.

Switch on

4-CYCLE CORRECTIVE ACTION

If you suspect the engine is overﬁ lled the following procedure should remove the excess oil from the crankcase and valve cover.

If the engine is overﬁ lled, oil will enter the crankcase and it does not simply pour out of the oil ﬁ ll opening. The excessive oil has to be pumped out as the engine runs. Checking the oil level and draining any excess between multiple 30 second running intervals will bring the oil back to the proper level.

1. Place the engine on a level surface resting ﬂ at on the front

loop handle and remove the oil ﬁ ll cap/dipstick. Use a catch basin for any oil that overﬂ ows from the oil ﬁ ll opening.

2. Replace the oil ﬁ ll cap/ dipstick and run the engine for approximately 30 seconds then repeat step one. Continue steps 1 & 2 until oil no longer overﬂ ows when the oil ﬁ ll cap/ dipstick is removed.

3. Once the oil level is corrected the engine may continue to smoke while running for several minutes while the residual oil burns off.

4-CYCLE PROPER OIL FILL/ LEVEL CHECK POSITION

Engine must be resting on a ﬂ at surface on the fuel tank

14 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

This position does not allow for a proper oil level reading and may cause overﬁ lling.

Page 15

2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operation

If engine does not stop when switch is put in the stop position, release the throttle, allow engine to idle.

Put the tiller down, and slide the choke lever to the cold start (closed) position. Have product serviced.

Figure 1

Read the instructions carefully. Be

familiar with the controls and the

proper use of the equipment.

NOW YOU’RE READY TO USE YOUR MANTIS TILLER.

If you’ve seen other tillers, your MANTIS Tiller may surprise you. It tills best when you pull it backward! You see, when you pull your MANTIS Tiller backward, you give extra resistance to the tines, so they dig deeper. (Figure 2)

In addition, when you go backward, you erase your footprints. So your soil stays light and ﬂ uffy. With other tillers, by contrast, you walk right over the soil you’ve just tilled, packing it down, so it’s less plantable.

RUN YOUR MANTIS TILLER LIKE A VACUUM CLEANER

Place your Tiller at the head of the row or area you want to till. Start it up. Then use an easy rocking motion. First, pull your Tiller backward. Then use an easy

A SPECIAL FEATURE

(With the idle set properly and the engine running)

Even when the engine is running, the tines won’t turn unless you squeeze the throttle trigger on the handlebars. And, when you release the throttle trigger, the tines will stop

A TIP FOR EXTENDING YOUR ENGINE’S LIFE

After you start the engine, let your tiller warm up for two to three

Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4

rocking motion. Again, pull your Tiller backward. Then, let it move forward just a little bit. Then pull it backward again. This will help you till deeper.

Keep repeating these steps until you’ve tilled an entire row. Start again on the next row. It’s much like running a vacuum cleaner! (Figure 3)

You Can Even Control Depth. For Deeper Tilling:

Move your Tiller slowly back and forth, as you would a vacuum cleaner. Work the same area over and over until you’ve dug to your desired depth. (Figure 4)

For Shallow Tilling:

Switch the tines to the cultivating position. (See page 16 to learn how.)

minutes before you use it. Then, before you put your tiller away, let it idle for a minute to give the engine a chance to cool down.

OPERATION

With engine running, and both hands on the handles, hold down the throttle lock out lever (Figure

1), then squeeze the throttle trigger gradually to increase the engine speed and engage the tines.

NOTE: This step must be repeated each time your tiller trigger is released.

Then move your Tiller quickly over your soil surface.

For Big Weeds or Tough Roots:

Let your Tiller rock back and forth over the tough spot, until the tines slice through the weed or root.

Your MANTIS Tiller Handles Special Tilling Projects:

Want to turn part of your lawn into a colorful ﬂ ower border? Your MANTIS Tiller makes it easy! Just run your Tiller back and forth until the sod begins to break up. Then continue tilling. Your Tiller will chop the clumps of sod until they’re ﬁ ne. Then, it will work them into the soil. Pretty soon, you’ll have a soft, fresh planting bed.

15Contact us at www.mantis.com

Page 16

2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operation

If your tines get jammed or entangled, shut off the

engine at once. Remove the obstruction while the

engine is off. Never try to remove an obstruction while

the engine is running. Serious injury can result.

Figure 1

YOUR MANTIS TILLER MAKES WEEDING A PLEASURE!

As a tiller, your MANTIS Tiller works the soil down to 10” (25.4 cm) deep. But, as a cultivator, it gently cultivates the surface, only 2” to 3” (5.09 cm to 7.62 cm) deep.

First, you must switch the tines to the weeding, cultivating position. This takes less than a minute.

Then, your MANTIS Tiller’s sharp “tine teeth” will slice up those pesky weeds, burying them as you go along. And, since the tines in this position won’t dig too deep, they won’t hurt your plants’ precious root systems.

Tilling Cultivating

IMPORTANT:

To change the tines on your Mantis Tiller, push the tiller forward and allow it to rest on the loop handle.

The operator of this tiller is responsible for

accidents or hazards occurring to himself,

other people or their property.

The result? Your Tiller will cut your weeding time in half, and turn a tiresome chore into a pleasure.

HOW TO SWITCH FROM TILLING TO CULTIVATING POSITION

1. Make sure your Tiller is off.

2. Remove the retaining pins from the tines.

(Figure 1)

3. Remove the tines from the axle.

4. Place the right-side tine onto the left-side axle. Place the left side tine onto the right-side axle. The “D” hole should be to the outside.

5. Reinsert the pins.

To set them for tilling, attach the tines so the points of the blades face forward

- away from the operator. The tines’ points will contact the ground ﬁ rst.

For cultivating, reverse the tines so that the points of the tines face backward - toward the operator. Now the long ﬂ at part of the tine’s blade will contact the ground ﬁ rst.

16 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 17

2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Transportation & Storage

Figure 1 Figure 2

2-CYCLE & 4-CYCLE TILLER STORAGE

5. Install the spark plug, but leave the spark plug wire disconnected.

6. Wipe the tines with oil or spray them

Do not store in an area where

fuel fumes may accumulate

and reach a ﬂ ame or spark.

Each fall, or before you store your Mantis Tiller for any long period, be sure to take these measures:

1. Do not store your Tiller with fuel still in it. Even under ideal conditions, stored fuel containing ethanol or MTBE can start to go stale in 30 days. And, since stale fuel has a high gum content, it can clog the carburetor, this, in turn, will restrict fuel ﬂ ow . Therefore, when you’re ready to store your Tiller, or will not be using it for more than 2 weeks, drain the fuel tank completely.

2. Next, restart the engine to make sure no fuel is left in the carburetor. Then, run the engine until it stops. This will prevent gum deposits, forming inside of the carburetor and possible engine damage.

3. Disconnect spark plug wire and remove the spark plug. Slowly pull the starter cord once.

4. Inspect the spark plug, and if necessary, clean it. If you need to replace it, buy a NGK-CMR5H.

with WD-40, to prevent rusting.

7. Oil the throttle cable and all visible moving parts. (Do not remove the engine cover.)

8. Store your Tiller in an upright position in a clean, dry place. You can store with the handles in an extended position or folded down.

To fold the handles down, simply

loosen the lower 2-pronged knobs until you can pivot the upper handles down. (Figure 3)

Or it can be hung using the handle

brace. (Figure 4)

9. To fold the handles, follow these easy steps: Loosen the handle knobs (#40) then fold the handles forward. Tighten knob securely. Your handles are now folded and ready to store in a smaller area.

10. Do you have fuel left over from last

season? Dispose of it properly. Buy fresh oil and gasoline next season.

11. Remove Tilling Tines or attachments

and lightly oil tine shaft at least once a year.

2-CYCLE & 4-CYCLE TILLER TRANSPORTATION

Transporting your Tiller is easy. It’s light enough and easy to carry using the carrying handle as seen in Figure 1.

Or, with it running, you can walk it by gently squeezing the throttle until it moves at a comfortable pace seen in Figure 2.

Your tiller is easily transported in the back of a car or truck. Be sure to empty the fuel tank (This is crucial)! Then stow your tiller in the trunk of your car or truck.

Figure 3 Figure 4

IMPORTANT:

It is important to store your Mantis Tiller in an upright position. Laying the Tiller on its side will cause the oil to leak out of the engine through the air cleaner case.

IMPORTANT:

Avoid any orientation that places the top cover (engine head) down

-this may allow oil from the crankcase to enter the combustion chamber and cause hard starting or a locked piston.

Never store the equipment

with Fuel in the tank or inside

a building where fumes can

accumulate and breach an

open ﬂ ame or spark

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Page 18

2-Cycle Tiller Maintenance

2-CYCLE TILLER BASIC MAINTENANCE ONLY

Your Deluxe 2 Cycle Tiller will require some basic maintenance to keep it performing year after year.

Of course, your Mantis is designed to be used in the soil, but dirt is the enemy of any engine. You should check the air ﬁ lter regularly

To replace the ﬁ lter, remove the ﬁ lter cover by ﬁ rst unscrewing the wing nut. Carefully remove the ﬁ lter cover, then simply pull out the ﬁ lter and replace It with a clean ﬁ lter.

If a new ﬁ lter is not immediately available, you can clean the old ﬁ lter with a brush to remove debris.

If you are storing your tiller for the season or longer than 30 days it is very important to empty the fuel tank to prevent engine damage from foul fuel.

The fuel ﬁ lter should be replaced every year. Open the fuel cap and using the cap retainer you can remove the fuel intake line. The ﬁ lter is at the end.

Air Filter

Hold the fuel line and work the ﬁ lter out. Then just push the new one back into the tube making sure the clamping wire is up high enough to engage with the stem of the ﬁ lter .

Fuel Filter

4-Cycle Tiller Maintenance

4-CYCLE TILLER BASIC MAINTENANCE ONLY

Your Deluxe 4 Cycle Tiller will require some basic maintenance to keep it performing year after year.

If you are storing your tiller for the season or longer than 30 days it is very important to empty the fuel tank to prevent engine damage.

Undoubtedly, you will be putting your tiller through rigorous use.

Check engine oil level, air ﬁ lter and fuel ﬁ lter.

Refer to your Honda

engine manual for more details.

Air Filter

Dipstick

Fuel Filter

18 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 19

HOW TO RESEAT THE FLANGE

2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Basic Maintenance

At some point, you may ﬁ nd that the tines won’t turn when you press the throttle. This may mean the engine isn’t sitting all the way down on the worm gear housing.

Perhaps you’ve been using your Tiller for several years. Or perhaps you’ve removed the engine for use with our hedge trimmer attachment, then replaced it. In either case, the ﬂ ange bolt may have come loose and lifted the engine up.

If this happened you’ll notice a gap between the bottom of the engine clutch case and the top of the worm gear housing. (Figure 1)

To ﬁ x this, loosen the ﬂ ange bolt. Take the engine off the worm gear housing. Notice the hex head on top of the drive shaft . Inside the clutch case, you’ll ﬁ nd the clutch drum. Make sure the hex head lines up with the clutch drum inside the clutch case.

Figure 1

Note how the engine doesn’t sit all the way down on the transmission.

Then put the engine back on the worm gear housing. Make sure the plastic carrying handle is not under the fuel tank.

If you’ve followed these steps properly, there will be no gap between the clutch

Note how the engine sits all the way down on the transmission.

Figure 2

case and the worm gear housing. (Figure 2) Make sure you tighten the ﬂ ange bolt!

All other engine maintenance issues can be found in the Honda included in your tiller package.

Engine Manual

TRANSMISSION CARE

Check the transmission grease level after the ﬁ rst 10 hours of use, then check yearly.

With the tines off, remove the transmission plate (Figure 3) and gasket to see if the grease level is up to the plate ﬂ ange (Figure 4). If it is not, you will need to add lithium zero grease.

Wipe off any excess grease, replace the transmission gasket and plate.

Figure 4

Figure 3

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Page 20

2-Cycle Tiller Assembly

20 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 21

Key Qty. Part No. Description

29 1 424 Worm Thrust Bearing

30 1 422 Worm Shaft

31 1 426 Worm Disk

32 1 428 Retaining Ring

33 1 429 Worm Gear

34 1 431 Tine Shaft

35 2 430 Worm Gear Thrust Washer

36 2 432 Worm Gear Bearing

37 2 434 Bearing Seal

38 2 435 Bearing Seal Retainer

39 1 438RA Tine Assembly, Right

1 430020 Brace with Labels, Includes Key #’s 8,9,51

40 1 438LA Tine Assembly, Left

41 2 418-1 Tine Retaining Pin

42 2 430039 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20 X 2.25"

43 1 430042 Ground Wire Jumper, 2 Cycle Engine

44 1 400630 Triangle Warning Label (2 Cycle Engine)

45 1 458 Roller Bearing (closed end)

46 1 430058 Mantis Logo Label

47 2 395 Acorn Nut

48 6 972 1/4-20 Two-way Lock Nut

49 4 144-2 1/4-20 X 1.125 Hex Head Cap Screw

50 2 140 Bolt 1/4-20x3/8" Long

51 1 430057 Warning Label

52 1 400010 Transmission Assembly*

53 4 400523 Knob, Two Prongs, Female

54 1 410158 Kickstand, Stand Assembly

55 1 430037 Kickstand, Bracket And Hardware

Key Qty. Part No. Description

1 1 430003 Trigger Handle Assembly, 2 Cycle Engine, Right

2 1 430006 Handle Assembly, Left

3 1 430053 Middle Handle W/plug, Right

4 1 430052 Middle Handle W/plug, Left

6 1 430051 Lower Handle W/plug, Right

7 1 430050 Lower Handle W/plug, Left

8 1 430021 Handle Brace

9 1 430056 Label, Handle Brace

10 1 430023 Loop Handle Right Half

11 1 430022 Loop Handle Left Half

12 2 4079 M6 Internal Lock Washer

13 2 478 Throttle Clip

14 1 430025 Foam Grip

15 1 430049 Carry Handle With Grip

16 2 4049 Bolt 1/4-20 X 3.25"

17 2 430038 Knob, 1/4-20 X1.5 Male

18 2 4078 M6 Jam Nut

19 2 430048 Curved Head Bolt, 1/4-20 X2"

20 1 465 Fender Guard

21 1 400904 Engine Assembly Sv-5ci/2

22 1 468 Drive Shaft

23 1 466 Worm Gear Housing

24 1 436 Gasket

25 1 437A Gear Housing Cover

26 4 651 #8 Self Tapping Screw

27 1 423 Roller Bearing

28 2 425 Worm Bearing Race

* Includes Key #22

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Page 22

4-Cycle Tiller Assembly

52*

22 Deluxe 2-Cycle & 4-Cycle Tiller Operator’s Manual

Page 23

Key Qty. Part No. Description

31 1 426 Worm Disk

32 1 428 Retaining Ring

33 1 429 Worm Gear

34 1 431 Tine Shaft

35 2 430 Worm Gear Thrust Washer

36 2 432 Worm Gear Bearing

37 2 434 Bearing

38 2 435 Bearing Seal Retainer

39 1 438RA Tine Assembly , Right

40 1 438LA Tine Assembly, Left

41 2 418-1 Tine Retaining Pin

42 2 430039 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20 X 2.25”

1 430020 Brace with Labels, Includes Key #’s 8,9,51

43 1 400130 Engine Flange

44 1 400631 Triangle Warning Label (4 Cycle Engine)

45 1 458 Roller Bearing

46 1 430058 Mantis Logo Label

47 2 395 Acorn Nut

48 6 972 1/4-20 Two-Way Lock Nut

49 4 144-2 1/4-20 X 1.125 Hex Head Cap Screw

50 2 140 Bolt 1/4-20x3/8” Long

51 1 430057 Warning Label

52 1 400010 Transmission Assembly*

53 4 400523 Knob, Two Prongs, Female

54 1 430043 Ground Wire Jumper, 4 Cycle Engine

55 2 4079 M6 Internal Lock Washer

56 1 400132 Bearing

57 1 400131 Clutch Drum

58 4 400511 M6x12 Flange Bolt

59 1 410158 Kickstand, Stand Assembly

60 1 430037 Kickstand, Bracket And Hardware

Key Qty. Part No. Description

1 1 430004 Trigger Handle Assembly, 4 Cycle Engine, Right

2 1 430006 Handle Assembly, Left

3 3 430053 Middle Handle W/Plug, Right

4 1 430052 Middle Handle W/Plug, Left

6 1 430051 Lower Handle W/Plug, Right

7 1 430050 Lower Handle W/Plug, Left

8 1 430021 Handle Brace

9 1 430056 Label, Handle Brace

10 1 430023 Loop Handle Right Half

11 1 430022 Loop Handle Left Half

12 1 910502 10-32 X 3/4” Flange Bolt

13 2 478 Throttle Clip

14 1 430025 Foam Grip

15 1 430049 Carry Handle W/Grip

16 2 4049 Bolt 1/4-20 X 3.25”

17 2 430038 Knob, 1/4-20 X1.5 Male

18 2 4078 M6 Jam Nut

19 2 430048 Curved Head Bolt, 1/4-20 X2”

20 1 465 Fender Guard

21 1 400911 Engine Assembly-25cc Honda

22 1 468 Drive Shaft

23 1 466 Worm Gear Housing

24 1 436 Gasket

25 1 437A Gear Housing Cover

26 4 651 #8 Self Tapping Screw

27 1 423 Roller Bearing

28 2 425 Worm Bearing Race

29 1 424 Worm Thrust Bearing

* Includes Key #22

30 1 422 Worm Shaft

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Page 24

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Remedy

1. Tines don’t turn when throttle is depressed.

2. Engine fails to start.

3. Engine hard to start.

4. Engine continuously ﬂ oods.

5. There is black smoke coming from exhaust.

6. Engine misses.

7. Engine lacks power.

8. Engine overheats.

9. Engine noisy or knocking.

10. Engine stalls under load.

• Engine is not seated properly on the gear housing.

• O/I switch is in “O” position.

• No fuel in tank.

• Fuel strainer clogged.

• Fuel line clogged.

• Spark plug shorted or fouled.

• Spark plug is broken (cracked porcelain or electrodes broken).

• Ignition lead wire shorted, broken or disconnected from spark plug.

• Ignition inoperative.

• Water in gasoline or stale fuel mixture.

• Too Much oil in fuel mixture. (2-Cycle only)

• Engine under or over choked.

• Carburetor out of adjustment. (2-Cycle only)

• Gasket leaks (carburetor or cylinder base gasket).

• Weak spark at spark plug.

• Fuel tank vent line is not in an upright position. (2-Cycle only)

• The mufﬂ er screen may be clogged.

• The exhaust port may be restricted.

• Dirt in fuel line or carburetor.

• Carburetor improperly adjusted.

• Spark plug fouled, broken or incorrect gap setting.

• Weak or intermittent spark at spark plug.

•Air ﬁ lter clogged.

•Carburetor out of adjustment.

•Mufﬂ er clogged.

•Clogged exhaust ports.

•Spark Arrestor Clogged.

•Poor compression.

• Insufﬁ cient oil in fuel mixture. (2-Cycle only)

• Air ﬂ ow obstructed.

•Spark plug in incorrect heat range.

•Bearings, piston ring or cylinder walls are worn.

• Engine overheats.

• Carburetor adjustment too “lean.”

• Re-install engine following the instructions on page 18 (How to reseat the ﬂ ange).

• Move switch to “I.”

• Fill Tank.

• Replace Strainer.

• Clean fuel line.

• Install new spark plug.

• Replace spark plug.

• Replace lead wire or attach to spark plug.