Mantis 7990 Operator's & Parts Manual

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Tiller/Cultivator

Motobêche-bineuse

Operator’s Manual and Safety Instructions for

MAN 430091

Rev . A 1-09-15

MODEL 7990 MODÈLE 7990

Tiller/Cultivator

Manuel de l'utilisateur et consignes de

sécurité pour la motobêche-bineuse

OPERATOR’S/PARTS MANUAL

MANUEL DE L'UTILISATEUR / PIÈCES DÉTACHÉES

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Welcome to the World of Mantis Gardening

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

Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS XP Tiller weighs only 35 lbs. (Model 7990). 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

ATTENTION MANTIS PRODUCT OWNERS! Get maintenance tips for your Mantis

product on our web site at www.mantis.com

soft, smooth seed bed, even in problem soil. It’s bigger than a mini tiller and better than a bigger tiller!

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

step, how to use your tiller safely.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE

Thank you for purchasing this Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product. You 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

SAFETY RULES & WARNINGS

Special Safety Information .................................................3

Safety & Warnings .............................................................3

Safety Decal Information ...................................................3

Warning Dos ......................................................................4

Warning Don’ts ..................................................................5

Engine/Fuel Warning Dos ..................................................5

Engine/Fuel Warning Don’ts ..............................................5

ASSEMBLY ............................................................................6

Lower Handle ....................................................................7

Kickstand ...........................................................................8

Upper Handle Assembly ....................................................9

This Operator’s / 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.

FUELING & STARTING

4-Cycle Fueling & Oil Only ..............................................10

4-Cycle Starting Only .......................................................10

4-Cycle Corrective Action ................................................ 11

OPERATION ....................................................................11-13

TRANSPORTATION .............................................................14

STORAGE ............................................................................14

MAINTENANCE ..............................................................14-17

TROUBLESHOOTING .........................................................18

MANTIS TILLER ASSEMBLY & PARTS LIST .................19-20

LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION ................BACK PAGE

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Safety Rules & Warnings

You will notice throughout this Operator’s 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.

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

P/N 430057

P/N 400631

Do not reach your

ngers and\or hands

in between the tine blades

Always remove the outer tines before removing the inner tines

P/N 400635

4 Operator’s Manual

Don’t operate indoors

Do not carry the tiller in this position.

Don’t fuel, refuel, or check fuel while smoking, or near an

open ame or other

ignition source.

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.

Incorrect assembly.

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.

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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 - DOS

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

1. Always keep a 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 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.

8. 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 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).

Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight

11.

to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

Use extreme caution when reversing

12.

or pulling the machine towards you.

13. Work only in daylight or good

articial light.

Operation of this equipment may create sparks

that can start res around dry vegetation. A spark

arrestor is installed. The operator should contact

local re agencies for laws or regulations relating

to re prevention requirements.

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

18. Always visually inspect to see that the tools are not worn or damaged. Before using your tiller, 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.

22. Always remove the outer set of tines before removing the inner set of tines.

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Safety Rules & Warnings

V. WARNINGS - DON’TS

Don’t use tiller with one hand. Keep

both hands on handles with 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

are moving. Never try to remove jammed. material before switching the engine off

and making sure the tines have stopped completely.

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

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

VI. ENGINE/FUEL WARNINGS - DOS

Always use fresh gasoline. Stale gasoline

can cause damage. Always store fuel in containers

specically designed for this purpose.

Always add fuel before starting the engine.

Always replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.

Don’t allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the machine. Local regulations can restrict the age of operator.

Don’t let others operate tiller without proper training.

Don’t operate while under the inuence

of alcohol or drugs. Don’t attempt to repair this tiller. Have

repairs made by a qualied dealer or

repairman. See that only original Mantis parts are used.

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.

The use of spark arrestor mufers is

required by law in the state of California (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code), as well as in other

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

Don’t stand in front of tiller when tines are rotating.

Don’t operate tiller with tines having the 3 rods extending from end without having second set of tines attached. Failure to have tines in place will damage tine assembly.

Do not reach your ngers and\or hands

in between the tine blades. Do not attempt to remove the inner tines

before removing the outer tines.

states or municipalities. Federal laws apply on federal lands.

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 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 fuel 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 fuel is spilled, but move the machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.

6 Operator’s Manual

Don’t operate your tiller if there is an accumulation of debris around the

mufer, and cooling ns. To reduce the re hazard, keep the engine and fuel

storage area free of vegetative material and excessive grease.

Don’t touch hot mufers, cylinders or cooling 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 uids as they will cause

permanent engine damage.

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Assembly

Picture of Model 7990

T40

T14

T11

T67

T10

T15

T20 T52T21

T66

T39

OIL

T59

T60

WHAT COMES IN THE BOX

Key Qty. Part No. Description

T21, T20,T52

T10 1 Loop Handle, Right Half T11 1 Loop Handle, Left Half T14 1 Foam Grip T6 1 Lower Handle with Plug, Right T7 1 Lower Handle with Plug, Left T16 2 Bolt 1/4-20 X 3.25” T48 6 1/4-20 Two-Way Lock Nut T15 1 Carry Handle with Grip T49 4 1/4-20 X 1.125” Hex Head Cap Screws T1 1 Trigger Handle Assembly, 4-Cycle Engine,

T2 1 Handle Assembly, Left T8 1 Handle Brace T53 2 Knob, Two Prongs, Female T42 2 Carriage Bolt, 1/4-20 X 2.25” T47 2 Acorn Nut T13 2 Throttle Clip T39 1 Tine Assembly, Outer Right T40 1 Tine Assembly, Outer Left T66 1 Tine Assembly, Inner Right T67 1 Tine Assembly, Inner Left T41 4 Tine Retaining Pins T59 1 Kickstand, Stand Assembly T60 1 Kickstand, Bracket and Hardware Oil 1 400208 4-Cycle Oil 3.4oz

1 Engine Assembly (includes Fender Guard &

Worm Gear Transmission)

Right

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

T14

T41

T49

T13

T59

T53

T16

T42

T47

T48

T60

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 wrench with an extension

• A 7/16” socket

• A 3/8” socket or crescent wrench

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Page 8

Assembly

LET’S BEGIN

• With the box upright, open the box and remove insert.

• Remove second cardboard insert and all loose parts that are at the top of the tillers cradle.

• Lay the box on the side and open the bottom aps.

• Return the box to an upright position and pull the box straight up.

• Right throttle handle attached to tiller assembly with installed tines will be in the box cradle.

• Lay everything out so you can easily identify the parts (see parts image and list on page 6).

LOWER HANDLE ASSEMBLY

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

2 3

• Open cradle by pulling sides apart. • Slide the foam grip onto the right loop handle.

5 6

• 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.

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

8 Operator’s Manual

• Slide the lower left handle onto the bolts.

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LOWER HANDLE ASSEMBLY (CONTINUED)

Assembly (Continued)

• Slide the left loop handle into the foam grip and right loop handle.

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

• Slide loop handle through bolts and over top lower left handle, then take two lock nuts and

fasten them nger tight.

• 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 should look like this when lower handle assembly is complete.

XP Tiller

KICKST AND ASSEMBLY

• Position the kickstand bracket 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 bracket bolts into the kickstand.

• Tighten with the 3/8” crescent wrench.

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

XP Tiller will

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Page 10

Assembly (Continued)

UPPER HANDLE ASSEMBLY

• Lift the upper handle until it lines up with the lower handle.

•

Insert carriage bold (T42) from outside in.

• Screw on knob (T12) and fully tighten the knob at the pivot point.

• Follow the same steps to install the other upper handle onto the other lower handle.

• Use the clip (T9) to secure the throttle cable and wire in place on the lower handle.

• Cap the exposed bolt with an acorn nut (T13) and tighten with your 7/16” wrench until snug. Do not over tighten.

• Now install the handle brace. Line it up with the holes on the upper handles. Then insert a cap screw (T15) and a lock nut (T14) on either side.

• Use a wrench to tighten cap screws and lock nuts.

• Now use wrench to tighten all nuts and bolts rmly and

securely.

7990

Improper Throttle installation can cause tines to rotate unexpectedly.

10 Operator’s Manual

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 3-5

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Be sure you have proper throttle movements and that the throttle cable is not wrapped or twisted 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 lter and visually check that the throttle triangle hits

both the idle screw and the full open stop. THIS MUST BE DONE BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE.

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Mantis® XP Tiller Fueling & Starting

MANTIS® XP TILLER FUELING AND OIL ONLY

IMPORTANT!

It is normal for your 4 stroke engine to smoke for the 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® XP Tiller as shown in Figure 1 so the oil will

properly ll the crankcase.

Failure to do so will cause engine damage.

• Remove the oil plug.

• Pour in the bottle of pre-measured (3.4 oz) Mantis approved, 4-cycle engine oil.

• Always check the oil level before each use. The oil level

should reach the inner rst thread of the reservoir. Do not overll.

• Replace the oil plug.

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

Fueling your Mantis® XP Tiller/Cultivator is easy. Unscrew the

gas cap and ll the tank about four-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

MANTIS® XP TILLER STARTING ONLY

Starting the engine for the 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 lled with gas. Once it is 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 brie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 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 3-5.

OFF ON

Switch

Do not operate the engine in a conned

space where dangerous carbon monoxide

fumes can collect.

! !

ALTERNATIVE FUELS, SUCH AS E-15 (20% ETHANOL), E-85 (85% ETHANOL) OR ANY FUELS NOT MEETING HONDA REQUIREMENTS ARE NOT APPROVED FOR USE IN GASOLINE ENGINES. USE OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS MAY CAUSE PERFORMANCE PROBLEMS, LOSS OF POWER, OVERHEATING, FUEL VAPOR LOCK AND UNINTENDED MACHINE OPERATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPROPER CLUTCH ENGAGEMENT. ALTERNATIVE FUELS MAY ALSO CAUSE PREMATURE DETERIORATION OF FUEL LINES, GASKETS, CARBURETORS AND OTHER ENGINE COMPONENTS.

Fuel is extremely ammable. Handle it with

care. Keep away from ignition sources. Do not

smoke while fueling your equipment

WARNING • DANGER

Avoid accidental blade engagement.

Do not squeeze the throttle trigger when starting. Main-

tain proper idle speed adjustment (2500-3100 rpm)

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Page 12

Mantis® XP Tiller Fueling & Starting

CORRECTIVE ACTION

If you suspect the engine is

overlled the following procedure

should remove the excess oil from the crankcase and valve cover.

If the engine is overlled, oil will

enter the crankcase and it does

not simply pour out of the oil 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 at on the front

loop handle and remove the

oil ll cap/dipstick. Use a catch basin for any oil that overows from the oil ll opening.

2. Replace the oil ll cap/

dipstick and run the engine for approximately 30 seconds then repeat step one. Continue steps 1 & 2 until oil no longer

overows when the oil 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.

Mantis® XP Tiller Operation

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. 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 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 lockout trigger (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.

MANTIS® XP TILLER PROPER OIL FILL/ LEVEL CHECK POSITION

This position does not allow for a proper oil level reading and may

cause overlling.

Engine must be resting on a at surface on

the fuel tank

Figure 1

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 before using.

12 Operator’s Manual

Page 13

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 XP Tiller may surprise you. It tills best when you pull it backward! You see, when you pull your MANTIS XP Tiller backward, you give extra resistance to the tines, so they dig deeper.

(Figure 1)

In addition, when you go backward, you erase your footprints. So your soil stays light and

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 rocking motion. Again, pull your Tiller backward. Then, let

Mantis® XP Tiller Operation (Continued)

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3

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 2)

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 3)

For Shallow Tilling:

Switch the tines to the cultivating position. (See page 13 to learn how.) 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 XP Tiller Handles Special Tilling Projects:

Want to turn part of your lawn into a colorful

ower border? Your MANTIS XP 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 ne. Then, it will work them into

the soil. Pretty soon, you’ll have a soft, fresh planting bed.

WARNING

! !

ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE HANDLE KNOBS ARE

SECURE BEFORE STARTING YOUR MANTIS TILLER.

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.

YOUR MANTIS XP TILLER MAKES WEEDING A PLEASURE!

As a tiller, your MANTIS XP Tiller works the soil down to 10” (25.4 cm) deep. But, as a cultivator, it gently cultivates the surface, only 2” to 3” (5.08 cm to 7.62 cm) deep.

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

The operator of this tiller is responsible for

accidents or hazards occurring to himself,

other people or their property.

Then, your MANTIS XP 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.

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

13Contact us at www.mantis.com

Page 14

Mantis® XP Tiller Operation (Continued)

HOW TO SWITCH FROM TILLING TO CULTIVATING POSITION

1. First, you will need to understand that your Mantis® XP Tiller has an inner and an outer set of tines on each side of the tiller as shown in Figure 1.

2. Make sure the tiller is turned off.

3. Remove the retaining pins from the

outer set of tines (Figure 2) and remove the outer tines.

4. Only after you have removed the outer

set of tines, then remove the retaining pins from the inner tines and remove the inner tines from the transmission axle (Figure 3)

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3

5. Place the right-side set of inner tines

onto the left-side. The “D” shaped

hole should be to the outside. Make sure the tine retaining pin is installed. Repeat for the other side

6. Place the right side set of outer tines

onto the left-side axle. The “D” shaped

hole should be to the outside and insert the tine retaining pin. Repeat for the other side.

Your Mantis® XP Tiller also has the ability to till or cultivate at either a 9” or 16” width. The tiller is sent to you set up for 16”. To run the tiller at a 9” width,

simply remove the inner and outer tines as noted above. Then just put the outer tines back onto the transmission axle and secure with a retaining pin on each side.

DO NOT reach your ngers and/or

hand between the tine blades.

DO NOT attempt to remove the

inner set of tines until you have

rst removed the outer set of tines.

Inner Tines

Outer Tines

IMPORTANT:

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

Tilling Cultivating

Handles Handles

Tine Rotation

Tine Teeth

Back

Front

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 rst.

Tine Rotation

Tine Teeth

Back

Front

For cultivating, reverse the tines so that the points of the tines face backward - toward the operator. Now

the long at part of the tine’s blade will contact the ground rst.

14 Operator’s Manual

Page 15

CLEANING THE TINES

If you have a “backyard jungle,” rst use

a knife, pruner, or brush cutter to chop up the overgrowth. If the tines become tangled anyway, turn the engine off completely before trying to clear them.

From time to time, you may want to remove the tines to get them completely

Mantis® XP Tiller Maintenance

clean. To do this, please follow steps 1-4

as noted under “How to Switch From

Tilling to Cultivating Position” on page

13. Then, you can remove any weeds, stones, or mud from the tines. As always, please be sure to remove the outer tines before removing the inner tines. Also,

do not reach your ngers and\or hand in

between the tine blades. When nished,

simply return the tines to their starting positions.

The optional Tine Detangler (Item #1322) will clear tines in a jiffy. Contact your local authorized Mantis 1-800-366-6268 to order.

dealer or call

MANTIS

XP TILLER TRANSPORTATION

MANTIS

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

Figure 1 Figure 2

MANTIS® XP TILLER STORAGE

Never store the equipment with fuel in the tank or in

an area where fumes may accumulate and breach an

open 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 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

XP TILLER TRANSPORTATION

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.

Never store the equipment with Fuel in the tank or inside

a building where fumes can accumulate and breach an

open ame or spark

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.

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

disconnected.

6. Wipe the tines with oil or spray them with WD-40, to prevent

rusting.

7. Oil the throttle cable and all visible moving parts. (Do not

remove the engine cover.)

8. Clean or replace the air lter.

9. Check or replace fuel lter.

10. Check the grease level in the worm gear housing. Add

grease if needed.

15Contact us at www.mantis.com

Page 16

Mantis® XP Tiller Maintenance (Continued)

11. 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 2)

Or it can be hung using the handle brace.

12. Do you have fuel left over from last season? Dispose of it properly. Buy fresh oil and gasoline next season.

13. Remove Tilling Tines or attachments and lightly oil tine shaft at least once a year.

Your MANTIS XP 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 lter and fuel lter.

Refer to your Honda® engine manual for more details.

IMPORTANT:

It is important to store your 4-Cycle Mantis XP 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.

Air Filter

Dipstick

Fuel Filter

16 Operator’s Manual

Page 17

Mantis® XP Tiller Maintenance (Continued)

AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE

A wet or dirty air lter can affect the way your engine starts, performs, and wears. So, it’s a good idea to check your air lter

once a month. If you work in dusty soil, or if you want to be on the safe side –

check your lter more often (for instance, before each use). But

be sure to replace it at least once a year, in the spring or fall.

How to Check, Clean and Change the Air Filter

1. The air lter is held in the air cleaner in a black housing on

the side of the tiller, behind the gas tank cap.

2. Squeeze the two locking tabs at the rear of the air cleaner cover (Figure 1) and swing the cover towards the front of the engine to open it

3. The air lter is the dark sponge like material on the inside of

the air cleaner. Check whether it is soiled or moist.

4. If the air lter needs to be cleaned or no longer ts properly,

simply remove it by carefully peeling it out of the air cleaner.

(Figure 2)

5. To clean the air lter

a. Clean the lter element in warm soapy water, rinse and

allow to dry thoroughly. Or, clean in a non-ammable

solvent and allow to dry.

b. Dip the lter element in clean engine oil, then squeeze

out all excess oil. The engine will smoke when started if too much oil is left in the element.

c. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner body and cover, using a

moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the carburetor.

6. Insert your clean lter inside the air cleaner.

Figure 1 Figure 2

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Please check the lip on the Air Cleaner Cover. If the lip is chipped or cracked, it should be replaced. This will prevent dirt from being ingested through the carburetor into the inside of the engine.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Operating the engine without an

air lter element, or with a damaged air lter element, will allow

dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear. This type of damage is not covered by the Limited Warranty

HOW TO RESEAT THE FLANGE

At some point, you may 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 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 x this, loosen the 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 nd the clutch drum. Make sure

the hex head lines up with the clutch drum inside the clutch case.

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

IMPORTANT NOTE:

A dirty air cleaner will restrict air

ow to the carburetor, reducing

engine performance. If you operate the engine in very dusty areas,

clean the air lter element more often then specied in the

Maintenance section.

Figure 1

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

IMPORTANT:

Make sure the lter is “seated” properly in the cover. The lter must t snugly inside the opening that holds the lter in place. Installing the lter incorrectly will

cause engine damage and void the warranty. Fit the cover back over the air cleaner and snap the two locking tabs

Figure 2

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

If you’ve followed these steps properly, there will be no gap between the clutch case and the worm gear housing. (Figure

2) Make sure you tighten the ange bolt!

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

17Contact us at www.mantis.com

Page 18

Mantis® XP Tiller Maintenance (Continued)

TRANSMISSION CARE

How to Check the Grease Level Inside the Worm Gear Housing

When we built your Mantis® XP Tiller, we added Lithium EP #0 grease to properly

lubricate the transmission for the rst 10

hours of operation. As part of the regular maintenance of your tiller, it is imperative that you inspect the grease level and add grease if necessary. This will help your tiller give you years of excellent usage.

You will need to add grease with a

grease gun using the tting at the front of

the transmission (Figure 1). You should

add grease through this tting after the rst 10 hours of operation and then every

50 hours of use. You can use Lithium EP#0 EP#1

Premature transmission failure can

occur if proper grease level is

not maintained

grease or #2 grease in combination with specially formulated Mantis

9985).

The following are different service steps for different type of grease.

IF YOU USE Lithium EP #1 or #0 grease:

1. Make sure the tiller is turned off and remove the tines.

2. Place the tiller front side down on an elevated surface and remove the 4 screws holding the transmission cover

(Figure 2).

3. Remove the transmission cover and gasket. Inspect the grease level. If it is below the edge of the gear housing, you will need to add grease. If it is

already ush with this edge, you do

not need to add grease.

4. If grease is needed, remove the

protective cap from the grease tting,

attach the grease gun, and slowly add

grease (p/n

Figure 1

Figure 2

grease until the level is ush with the

edge of the transmission (Figure 3).

5. Return the grease tting protective

cover, gasket and attach transmission cover with the 4 original screws.

IF YOU USE Lithium EP #2 grease in combination with Mantis (p/n 9985):

Follow steps 1 through 3 and then follow instructions below.

4. If grease is needed, remove protective

cap from the grease tting on the front

of the transmission and attach the grease gun. Please pay attention to the size of the grease gun. Different guns distribute different amount of grease per pump.

a. If you are using Mini grease gun

with 3 ounce cartridge add 5 full pumps of grease. One pump from Mini grease gun is equal to approximately 0.012 oz. or 0.3 grams.

b. If you are using standard

automotive grease gun with 14 ounce cartridge, add 2 full pumps of grease. One pump from a standard automotive grease gun is equal to

0.03 oz. or 0.9 grams.

CAUTION: DO NOT ADD MORE GREASE THAN SPECIFIED ABOVE

5. Remove the grease gun from

the grease tting and replace the

protective cap.

grease

Figure 3

Figure 4

6. Inspect the grease level. If it is below the edge of the gear housing, you will

need to add grease. If it is ush with

the gear housing do not add grease.

7. If you need to add more grease, utilize the specially formulated Mantis grease (p/n 9985). This grease is compatible with the grease that was in the transmission from the factory. DO NOT USE Lithium EP #2 IN THIS STEP. (Figure 4)

8. Return the gasket and the transmission cover. Secure cover with the 4 original screws.

Always inspect the gasket prior to reinstallation. If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new gasket (p/n 436)

DO NOT OVERFILL.

Too much grease can create

pressure which can cause seals

to fail or the clutch to slip.

In between adding grease with the grease gun, you should inspect the grease level after approximately 10 hours of operation. If grease is needed, you can add grease directly to the opening in the transmission using

Mantis

p/n 9985.

18 Operator’s Manual

Page 19

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Remedy

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

2. Engine fails to start.

3. Engine hard to start.

4. There is black smoke coming from exhaust.

5. Engine misses.

6. Engine lacks power.

7. Engine overheats. • Air ow obstructed. • Clean ywheel cylinder ns and screen.

8. Engine noisy or knocking.

9. 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.

• Engine under or over choked.

• Gasket leaks (carburetor or cylinder base gasket).

• Weak spark at spark plug.

• The muf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 lter clogged.

•Carburetor out of adjustment.

•Mufer clogged.

•Clogged exhaust ports.

•Spark Arrestor Clogged.

•Poor compression.

•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 16 (How to reseat the ange).

• Move switch to “I.”

• Fill T ank.

• Replace Strainer.

• Clean fuel line.

• Install new spark plug.

• Replace spark plug.

• Replace lead wire or attach to spark plug.