O WNER’S MANUAL
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Electric Tiller
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Electric Tiller
1
Electric Tiller
Here’s your new MANTIS Electric Tiller . . . the
lightweight wonder that’s “Changing the Way
Americans Garden®.”
Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS Electric Tiller
weighs only 21 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 first, please read this
manual. It shows, step by step, how to use your tiller
safely. Plus, it shows how the MANTIS Border Edger
can make light work of your edging needs.
If you have questions about any topic in this Manual,
or if you wish to order MANTIS Attachments contact
your local authorized MANTIS dealer.
Welcome to the World of Mantis Gardening
Table of Contents
Safety Rules and Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-8
Before You Begin Tilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
Tilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11
Tilling/ Cultivating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-12
Using the Border Edger Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Parts Explosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
The Mantis Promise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
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Electric Tiller
WARNING DANGER
ATTENTION:THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT OUR IMPOR TANT
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL
HEED ITS WARNING! STAY ALERT!
WARNING DANGER
TO REDUCE THE POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENTS,COMPLY WITH THE
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.
FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY,
AND/ OR EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
WARNING DANGER
IMPROPER USE OR CARE OF THIS TILLER OR FAILURE TO WEAR
PROPER PROTECTION CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION AND ALL
INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.
WEAR HEARING AND EYE PROTECTION.
Safety Rules and Warnings
A. Special Safety Information
You will notice throughout this owners’ manual, Safety Rules and Important Notes. Make sure you understand
and obey these warnings for your own protection.
B. Safety and Warnings
WARNING DANGER
IF THE TILLER IS USED IMPROPERLY OR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE
NOT FOLLOWED,THE USERS RISK SERIOUS INJURY TO
THEMSEL VES AND O THERS.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO OPERATE THIS TILLER.
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Electric Tiller
C. 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. The location and part numbers (P/N) of
these decals are illustrated on Page 16 and 17.
P/N 420600
CORRECT ASSEMBLY.
CUTTING HAZARD; KEEP
FEET AND HANDS AWAY
FROM ROTATING TINES.
WEAR EAR AND EYE
PROTECTION.
READ OWNER’S MANUAL
BEFORE USING TILLER, OR
PERFORMING ANY REPAIR OR
MAINTENANCE. KEEP
OWNERS MANUAL IN A
SAFE PLACE.
DO NOT CARRY THE TILLER
IN THIS POSITION.
DO NOT USE IF
ELECTRICAL CORDS ARE
DAMAGED OR BROKEN
DO NOT USE IF IN RAIN
OR WET CONDITIONS
INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.
P/N 420601
D. Important Extension Cord Information
1. Make sure the extension cords are in good condition before use.
2. Based on the total length of cord that you are going to use, check the chart to make sure the cord meets
the correct minimum cord gauge (AWG) requirements.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Using an undersized cord, a larger number cord gauge (AWG) than recommended in the chart, will
cause a loss in power and overheating of the tiller.
Using a smaller number cord gauge (AWG), than recommended in the chart, is acceptable.
Extension Cord Chart (minimum cord gauge (AWG))
Length (feet) 1 to 25 26 to 50 51 to 100 101 to 150
Cord gauge (AWG) 18 16 14 12
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Electric Tiller
E. Warnings - Do’s
Read and understand the owner’s manual. Pay
particular attention to all sections regarding safety.
1. Always keep a firm grip on both handles while the
tines are moving. BE AWARE!! The tines may coast
after the triggers are released. Make sure tines have
come to a complete stop before letting go of the tiller.
2. Always maintain a firm footing and good balance.
Do not overreach while operating the tiller. Before
you start to use the tiller, check the work area for
obstacles that might cause you to lose your footing,
balance or control of the machine.
3. Thoroughly inspect the area where equipment is to
be used and remove all objects, which can be thrown
by the machine.
4. Always keep area clear of children, pets, and
bystanders.
5. Always stay alert. Watch what you are doing and
use common sense. Do not operate unit when
fatigued.
6. Always dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing
or jewelry, they might get caught in moving parts.
Use sturdy gloves. Gloves reduce the transmission of
vibration to your hands. Prolonged exposure to
vibration can cause numbness and other ailments.
7. While working, always wear substantial footwear
and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
8. Always wear eye protection. Eye protection must
meet ANSI Z 87.1.
9. Start the tiller carefully, according to the
instructions on page 8.
10. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condition.
11. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the
machine towards you.
12. Work only in daylight or good artificial light.
13. Always be sure of your footing on slopes.
14. Exercise extreme caution when changing
direction on slopes.
15. Always keep a safe distance between two or more
people when working together.
16. Always inspect your unit before each use and
ensure that all handles, guards and fasteners are
secure, operating, and in place. Be sure that all
electrical cords are not damaged or broken.
17. Always maintain and examine your tiller with
care. Follow maintenance instructions given in
manual.
18. Always store tiller in a sheltered area (a dry
place), not accessible to children.
F. Warnings - Don’ts
1. Don’t use tiller with one hand. Keep both hands on
handles with fingers and thumbs encircling the grips
when the tines are moving.
2. Don’t overreach. Keep a good footing at all times.
3. Don’t run with the machine, walk.
4. Don’t work on excessively steep slopes.
5. Don’t attempt to clear tines while they are moving.
Never try to remove jammed material before
unplugging the cord and making sure the tines have
stopped completely.
6. Don’t allow children or incapable people to
operate this tiller.
7. Don’t operate while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
8. Don’t attempt to repair this tiller. Have repairs
made by a qualified dealer or repairman. See that
only original MANTIS parts are used.
9. Don’t run the tiller in rain or wet conditions.
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Electric Tiller
Assembly
WARNING DANGER
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THIS TILLER CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT
1-800-366-6268 OR AN AUTHORIZED DEALER.
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller comes partially
assembled. You must install only the handlebars, the
handle brace, and the tines. This will take just a few
minutes if you follow the directions.
First, take all items out of the carton. But do not
remove the cardboard from around the tiller’s base.
The list below, shows the parts that come with your
tiller. Check to make sure you have them.
The bag of hardware is in the plastic bag containing
the Owner’s Manual and Video.
To assemble your MANTIS Electric Tiller, you’ll
need two 7/16" wrenches. We suggest that you install
all nuts and bolts only “finger tight” — that is, onehalf to one full turn — until you’ve completed
assembly. The nuts are self locking, but you must
use a wrench to tighten them completely.
Qty. Description *Key #
1 Upper Handle Assembly 7
1 Upper Handle Trigger Assembly 1
2 Lower Handles 10
1 Pair Tiller/Cultivator Tines 54/55
1 Motor Assembly (includes Fender
Guard, WormGear Transmission
& Complete Housing) 62**
1 Handle Brace 14
1 Bag of Hardware Containing:
2 Round Head Square Neck Bolts 16
4 Lock Nuts 17
2 Bolts (3" long) 20
2Tine Retaining Pins 53
2 Handle Clamps 19
2 Bolts (1" long) 13
2 Knobs 12
2 Cable Clamp 18
*These numbers are the same numbers shown on the Parts Layout on
pages 16 and 17.
**This Key # is for assembly purposes only.
12
20
13
16
18
53
17
19
62
54, 55
14
1
7
10
A. Parts
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Electric Tiller
B. Lower Handle Assembly
To identify part numbers, see page 5 and 17.
1. Use the protective cardboard sleeve to stabilize
your tiller. Stand the motor assembly (#62) up.
(Picture 1)
2. Lay the handle parts within easy reach. You’ll need
one of the handle clamps (#19) and one of the lower
handles (#10). Note that the lower handles have a
short leg on one end.
3. Fit the handle clamp along the outside of the short
leg. Line up the holes on the clamp and the leg.
4. Choose one of the two 3-inch bolts (#20). Slide it
through the first set of holes — near the elbow where
the lower handle curves. (Picture 2)
5. Now slide the other lower handle onto the 3-inch
bolt. Fit the other clamp onto this other handle’s short
leg. Add a nut and tighten finger tight. (Picture 3)
6. Locate the worm gear housing. It starts just
above — and extends down through — the tiller’s
red fender guard. You’ll notice that there’s a
recessed channel on either side of the housing’s top.
(Picture 4.)
7. Take the lower handles that you’ve just put
together. Slide them into the two recessed
channels.(Picture 5.)
Make sure you insert them from the rear of the tiller so that the bolt fits along the back of the housing.
8. Slide the second 3-inch bolt through the second set
of holes in the short legs and clamps. Add a nut and
tighten finger tight.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
Picture 5Picture 4
NOTE: THE NUTS ARE SELF LOCKING,
BUT YOU MUST USE A WRENCH TO
TIGHTEN THEM COMPLETELY.
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Electric Tiller
C. Upper Handle Assembly
1. Attach the upper handle assembly (#1) – the handle
with the power cord – to the right lower handle (#10)
and secure with the handle knob (#12).
(Picture 1 and 2)
2. Follow the same steps to install the left upper
handle onto the left lower handle. (Picture 3)
3. Use the clip (#18) to secure the power cord in
place on the lower handle. (Picture 4)
4. Now install the Handle Brace (#14). Line it up with
the holes on the upper handles. Then insert a Bolt
(#13) and a Lock Nut (#17) on either side (Picture 5)
5. Use a wrench to tighten Bolt (#13) and
Lock Nuts (#17).
6. Now use wrench to tighten all nuts and bolts firmly
and securely.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
Picture 5
Picture 4
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Electric Tiller
D. Assemble the Tines for Tilling
Assembling the Tines for Tilling
1. Remove the cardboard from around your
tiller’s base.
2. Slide the tines onto the axle shafts. The “D” hole
goes on the outside.
3. Make sure you’ve installed the tines properly for
tilling. Liken the tines to your fingers. When your
palm faces the ground, your fingers curl down. Stand
behind the tiller and hold your hand next to the tines.
Do the tine blades curl down, as your fingers do? If
so, they are in the tilling position. (To switch to the
cultivating position, see page 12.)
4. To secure each tine to the axle, insert a tine
retaining pin.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Before you use your MANTIS Tiller, read the Safety Rules & Warnings on pages 2-4.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
Before You Begin Tilling
A. Starting
Starting your MANTIS Electric Tiller is easy.
1. Simply loop your extension cord through the built-in extension cord holder. This is provided to secure the
extension cord and help prevent it from becoming detached.
2. Connect the extension cord to the power cord on the tiller. (Picture 1)
3. Plug the extension cord into an outlet.
4. Pick a speed. (Picture 2)
CAUTION: This Tiller is Strong (Powerful). If you are starting the unit for the first time, the Tiller will
start quickly. Be sure to start the Tiller in the low speed (#1), until you get used to it.
5. Squeeze the triggers to begin tilling. (Picture 3)
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Electric Tiller
B. Getting Your Tiller to the Garden
Walk it.
Put the tiller in 1st speed; you can “walk” it to your
garden. Just squeeze the triggers and let the tiller “tiptoe” across your yard on its tines. It won’t hurt your
lawn or driveway. (Picture 1)
Carry It.
Make sure the power cord is unplugged from the
extension cord. Then use one hand to grasp the
convenient carrying handle. Use the other hand to
hold the handlebars. (Picture 2) Then lift your tiller
and carry it to your garden. Since it weighs only 21
pounds, it won’t strain your muscles or tire you out!
Take It for a Ride.
You can easily transport your MANTIS Electric Tiller
to a friend’s or relative’s house. Simply fold down the
handles, then store your tiller in the trunk of your car
or truck. It fits easily. And you can put it in and take
it our without straining your back. (Picture 3)
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 4Picture 3
WARNING DANGER
NEVER CARRY YOUR TILLER AS THE PERSON IN
PICTURE 4 IS DOING. IF YOU DO,AND THE TINES
ENGAGE,YOU COULD SUFFER SERIOUS INJURY.
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Electric Tiller
Tilling
WARNING DANGER
THE OPERATOR OF THIS TILLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS
OR HAZARDS OCCURRING TO HIMSELF, OTHER PEOPLE
OR THEIR PROPERTY .
A. Now You’re Ready to Use Your MANTIS Electric Tiller
If you’ve seen other tillers, your MANTIS Electric
Tiller may surprise you. It tills best when you pull it
backward! When you pull your MANTIS Electric
Tiller backward, you give extra resistance to the tines,
so they dig deeper. (Picture 1).
What’s more, when you go backward, you erase
footprints. So your soil stays light and fluffy. While
other tillers, by contrast, you walk right over the soil
you’ve just tilled, packing it down.
B. Run Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Like a Vacuum
Place your tiller at the head of the row or area you
want to till. Turn it on. Then use an easy rocking
motion. First, pull your tiller backward. Then use an
easy 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 a lot like
running a vacuum. (Picture 2)
C. 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. (Picture 3)
For Shallow Tilling:
Switch the tines to the cultivating position. (See pg.
12 to learn how) Then move you 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.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
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Electric Tiller
D. Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Handles Special Tilling Projects
Want to turn part of your lawn into a colorful flower
border?
Your MANTIS Electric 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 fine. Then, it will work
them into the soil. Pretty soon, you’ll have a soft,
fresh planting bed.
Tilling/ Cultivating
A. How About a Family-Size Vegetable Garden?
Nowadays many gardeners prefer small gardens —
especially in the suburbs, where space is at a
premium. But, if you’re fortunate enough to own a
large lot, you can create a bigger garden — a half
acre or more. Here’s how:
1. First, hire someone with a tractor or big tiller to
break ground for you. This is a one-time-only
investment that’s well worth the small cost.
2. Then, use your tiller to break up any remaining
clumps of soil or sod. Unlike a tractor or big tiller,
your MANTIS Electric Tiller is a precision tool. It
will pulverize your soil into a smooth seed bed.
WARNING DANGER
IF YOUR TINES GET JAMMED OR ENTANGLED,TURN OFF THE
TILLER AT ONCE. REMOVE THE OBSTRUCTION ONLY WHILE
THE TILLER IS UNPLUGGED.
NEVER TR Y TO REMOVE AN OBSTRUCTION WHILE THE TILLER IS IN
THE ON POSITION OR PLUGGED IN.SERIOUS INJURY CAN RESULT.
B. Your MANTIS Electric 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
position. This takes less than a minute.
Then, your MANTIS Electric 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.
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Electric Tiller
C. How to Switch From Tilling to Cultivating Position
1. Make sure your tiller is off and unplugged.
2. Remove the retaining pins from the tines.
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. Here is how to make sure you’ve installed the tines
properly. Stand behind the tiller and hold your hand,
palm up, next to the tines. Do the tine points curl up,
as your fingers do? If so, they are in the correct
cultivating position. (See photos below)
6. Reinsert the pins.
D. Now You’re Ready to cultivate or Weed.
Guide your tiller where you want to weed and start it
up. Pull your tiller backward slowly, then let it move
forward a bit, in a gentle rocking motion. Watch it
slice, shred, and bury those weeds!
Got tough weeds? Select a slower speed to slow your
tiller down. Then work back and forth until your tiller
chops up the weeds. It’s easy and effective!
Remember, any tiller will tangle in tall grass, stringy
vines, or super-big weeds. So, if you have a
“backyard jungle,” first use a knife, pruner, or brush
cutter to chop up the overgrowth. If the tines become
tangled anyway, turn the motor and unplug the tiller
before trying to clear them.
The optional tine Detangler (Item #1322) will clear
tines in a jiffy. Contact your local authorized
MANTIS dealer.
E. Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Will Weed Between Narrow Rows!
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller is a precision weeder
that easily fits in tight places. So don’t be afraid to
weed anywhere: between plants and shrubs; in
corners; against fences; on raised beds; in wide rows;
even in very narrow rows. Your MANTIS Electric
Tiller weeds six* to nine inches wide. So you can run
it in a tightly planted garden without damaging your
delicate plants. That’s good news for suburban
gardeners, who often have to plant rows close
together!
*With optional Planter/ Furrower attachment (Item #6222.)
Tilling Position
Tine teeth point in the
same direction as the
rotation of the tine; or
toward the front of the
tiller, away from the
operator.
Cultivating Position
Tine teeth point in the
opposite direction as
the rotation of the tine.
Tines point toward the
back of the tiller, or
toward the operator.
Back Front Back Front
Tine
Rotation
Tine
Teeth
Tine
Rotation
Tine
Teeth
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Electric Tiller
Using the Border Edger Attachment
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller has been designed and
built to accept a wide range of MANTIS Electric
Tiller Attachments to increase its usefulness in your
lawn and garden. And, all MANTIS Electric Tiller
Attachments have been designed for quick and easy
attachment to the tiller or Engine.
The Border Edger (Item #3222)
The most popular attachment, the Border Edger can
be used to cut clean, neat edges along walkways, or
around trees, shrubs, and
garden beds.
The Border Edger has two
parts: a wheel and a
hardened steel blade, with
pointed tines.
How to Install the
Border Edger
The following instructions
refer to “right” and “left”
axles. Assume that you’re
standing behind your
tiller, as you would for
tilling and cultivating.
Some areas of your yard may harbor roots and other
underground obstructions. In places like this you’ll
want to edge your borders shallowly (1" to 2" deep).
Here’s how to install the Border Edger for shallow
edging:
1. First remove your tilling/cultivating tines.
2. Then slide the edger’s wheel onto the right axle.
3. Now slide the Edger blade onto the left axle. The
blade’s angled face should hit the ground when you
spin the blade forward. (Picture 2)
4. Insert retaining pins on both left and right axles.
Around walkways and garden beds, you’ll want to
edge more deeply (3" to 4" deep). Here’s how to
install the Border Edger for that purpose:
1. Remove the tilling/cultivating tines.
2. Slide the Edger’s blade onto the right axle. The
blade’s pointed face should hit the ground when you
spin the blade forward. (Picture 1)
3. Slide the wheel onto the left axle.
4. Insert retaining pins on both sides.
How to Use the Border Edger
1. Position your MANTIS Electric Tiller so that the
Edger blade is right along the garden edge and the
wheel is outside (on the lawn, on the sidewalk,
wherever). (Picture 2)
2. Start your tiller and pull your MANTIS backward
along the garden edge.
The Border Edger Can Handle Special Projects!
1. Install the Edger for deep edging, as directed
above. Then use it to cut sod strips.
2. Edge and weed at the same time! Just attach the
Edger blade on one axle and a tiller tine on the other
axle, “Mix and match” blades; don’t be afraid to
experiment.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
If you do a lot of edging, you’ll appreciate the
MANTIS Wheel Set (Item#9222.) It gives you added
stability, for even easier handling.
To order the Wheel Set, or any MANTIS Attachment,
contact your local authorized MANTIS dealer.
Picture 1
Picture 2
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Electric Tiller
1. If nothing happens when you squeeze the triggers,
make sure the tiller is plugged in or that the cord is
not damaged.
2. If it still does not work, unplug the Electric Tiller
from the power source.
3. Inspect the tines to make sure your tines are clear
of rocks or debris. Clear any debris that may be
preventing the tines from spinning.
4. Remove the tines to make sure all of the debris has
been cleared.
5. Check the circuit breaker on the Electric Tiller.
Make sure the button hasn’t popped.
6. If the button has popped, press the button back in.
If the circuit breaker button doesn’t stay in, wait
approximately 30 seconds and retry. (Picture 1)
7. Make sure that the circuit breaker hasn’t been
tripped at your power source: whether it’s your
house, a generator, or an outdoor outlet.
Picture 1
Troubleshooting
A. What to Do if Your Electric Tiller Stops Running
B. How to Reseat the Motor Housing
At some point, you may find that the tines won’t turn
when you squeeze the throttle. This may mean the motor
isn’t sitting all the way down on the worm gear housing.
Perhaps you’ve been using your tiller for several
years. The housing screw bolt (Key #22) may have
come loose and lifted the motor up.
If this happened you’ll notice a gap between the
bottom of the bottom housing (Key #24) and the top
of the worm gear housing. (Picture 2)
To fix this, loosen the housing screw. Take the motor
and housing off the worm gear housing. Notice the
hex head on top of the drive shaft (Key #21). Inside
the bottom housing, you’ll find the coupler driver
(Key #26). Make sure the hex head lines up with the
coupler driver inside the bottom housing.
Then put the motor back on the worm gear housing.
If you’ve followed these steps properly, there will be
no gap between the bottom housing and the worm
gear housing. (Picture 3) Make sure you tighten the
housing screws!
C. The Tines Don’t Seem to Dig Like They Used To
If the tines are not performing as they did when you
first bought the tiller, inspect them for excessive wear.
To order replacement Tines contact your local
authorized MANTIS dealer.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
To keep your MANTIS Electric Tiller running as
efficiently as possible, always make sure the tines
are clear of rocks and debris.
If you continue to experience problems, contact
your local authorized MANTIS dealer.
Picture 2
Picture 3
15
Electric Tiller
Storage
1. Clean dirt, grass and other materials from the entire
machine.
2. Wipe the tines with oil or spray them with WD-40,
to prevent rusting.
3. Check the grease level in the gear housing, as
described on page 13.
4. Order new parts to replace any that are badly worn
or broken. Contact your local authorized MANTIS
dealer.
5. Store your tiller in a clean, dry place. You can store
with the handles in an extended position (Picture 3) or
folded down. (Picture 4)
6. To fold down the handles, follow these easy steps:
Loosen the handle knobs (#12), fold the handles
forward or back. (Picture 4) Tighten knob securely.
Your handles are now folded and ready to store in a
smaller area.
Picture 3
Picture 4
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Handles can fold back or forward. When folding
handles back, as show in picture #4, be careful not
to damage the 3-speed switch.
Maintenance
A. How to Check the Grease Level Inside the Worm Gear Housing
When we built your MANTIS Electric Tiller, we
lubricated the worm gear housing thoroughly.
It is imperative that you inspect the grease level once
a year. Simply remove the cover plate on the worm
gear housing. (Picture 1) Then check to make sure the
grease comes almost to the top of the housing. If it
doesn’t, add lithium #0 grease (Item M9985.) This is
the only way to add grease to the worm gear housing.
(Picture 2) To purchase MANTIS grease, contact
your local authorized MANTIS dealer.
Please do not overfill. Too much grease can create
pressure, which could cause seals to fail or the clutch
to slip.
Picture 1
Picture 2
16
Electric Tiller
Par ts Explosion
P/N 438LA
P/N 438RA
DIRECTION
Raised Hub
Teeth point in
a Clockwise
Direction
DIRECTION
Raised Hub
Teeth point in
a Counter
Clockwise
Direction
When you look at a Tine with the raised hub facing you
and the teeth are pointing in a CLOCKWISE rotation,
you have a LEFT HAND TINE.
When you look at Tine with the raised hub facing you and
the teeth are pointing in a COUNTER CLOCKWISE
rotation, you and a RIGHT HAND TINE.
17
Electric Tiller
Par ts List
Key No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Part No.
420200
420206
420203
3033
420123
310500
420207
420127
420213
420214
400230
400510
400509
420113
420601
410
972
478
377
470
468
420513
420514
420134
420512
420224
420222
420223
420511
Qty.
1
1
1
1
1
24
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
2
4
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
6
1
1
1
4
Description
Handle, Right Side Assy
Power Cord
Trigger, Trigger lock, Button
Switch Normally Open
Assembled PC Board w/Switch
#8-11 x 3/4 Combo Sl Torx T-20
Pan Steel Plastite 45-1 Case Harden
Handle, Left Side Assy
Motor Cord
Handle Upper FDH- Black
Handle Lower FDH- Black
Plug Handle
Handle Knob
Bolt
Handle Brace
Label Brace Elec. Tiller
Cap Screw 1/4-20 x 1" Lg.
Locknut 1/4-20
Cable Clamp KMC#BW1208H6
Handle Clamp
1/4-20 x 3" Bolt
Drive Shaft (Also in Key #61)
8-32 x 7/8 6-Lobe Torx Equiv Pan
M/S, with T-20 Driver Size
8-32 Hex Machine Screw Nuts,
Steel, Zinc
Bottom Housing
10-32 x 1/2 6-Lobe Torx Equiv Pan
M/S, with Spec T-20 Driver Size
Coupler Driver
Coupler Shock Absorber
Coupler Housing
1/4-20 x 1/2 Socket Head Cap
Screw, Plain Steel
Key No.
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
Part No.
420107
420900
420131
420128
3016
3041
466
432
434
435
431
423
425
424
400204
458
426
428
430
400205
436
420150
651
418-1
438LA
438RA
465
140
420600
4058
110637
400011
Qty.
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
4
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
Description
Motor Mounting Plate
120V PM Motor
Housing Set w/Circuit Breaker
Circuit Breaker
Strain Relief
3.5 x 13mm Ph Pan Metric Tapping
Screw DIN 7981, Steel, Zinc
Worm Gear Housing
Worm Gear Bearing
Bearing Seal
Bearing Seal Retainer
Tine Shaft
Roller Bearing
Worm Bearing Race
Worm Thrust Bearing
Worm
Roller Bearing
Worm Disk
Retaining Ring
Worm Gear Thrust Washer
Worm Gear
Gasket
Housing Cover
Rd. Hd. Self Tapping Screw
Tine Retaining Hair Pin
Tine Assembly (L.H.)
Tine Assembly (R.H.)
Fender Guard
Bolt 1/4-20 x 3/8" Lg.
Warning Fender Label
Mantis Label
Serial/UPC Label
Electric Tiller Trans w/ drive shaft
MANTIS extends only to the original consumer
purchaser a limited warranty against defects in
material and workmanship for a period of two
years from date of purchase. This warranty
covers all portions of the MANTIS Electric
Tiller.
MANTIS will repair or, at its option, replace any
defective part or parts of the product free of
charge. In the event of a defect or malfunction,
the purchaser must return the product to an
authorized MANTIS dealer.
MANTIS assumes no responsibility in the event
that the product was assembled or used in
contravention of any assembly, care, safety, or
operating instructions contained in the Owner’s
Manual; was not used with reasonable care; or
was used for other than normal and intended
purposes.
MANTIS MAKES NO EXPRESS
WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATION
EXCEPT THOSE CONTAINED HEREIN.
THE DURATION OF ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTY, INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR
APARTICULAR PURPOSE, IS LIMITED
TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS
WARRANTY. MANTIS DISCLAIMS ALL
LIABILITY FOR INDIRECT AND/OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME
STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS
ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED
WARRANTY LASTS AND/OR DO NOT
ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR
LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THAT
ABOVE LIMITATIONS AND
EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO
YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU
SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU
MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS
WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
MANTIS
1028 Street Road
Southampton , PA 18966
(215) 355-9700
Specifications, descriptions, and illustrative material in this literature are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change without notice.
P/N 420701 4/03
©2002 Mantis. Schiller-Pfeiffer, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA
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