Maxim RT190H Owner Manuals
MRT190H
800-621-2789 RT190H Rev B.3 Page 1
Owner’s Manual MRT190HB.3
WARNING
USE EXTREME CAUTION WHILE USING THIS EQUIPMENT. INJURY CAN OCCUR.
READ CAREFULLY AND UNDERSTAND ALL ASSEMBLY AND SAFE OPERATION
INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE SAFETY RULES
AND OTHER BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY.
Place serial number tag here
MRT190H
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Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.1 ... Application ............................................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 ... Benefits ....................................................................................................................................................................................5
1.3 ... Navigating This Manual ..................................................................................................................................................5
1.4 ... Warnings and Safety Precautions ..............................................................................................................................5
1.5 ... Operation References/Terminology ..........................................................................................................................7
1.6 ... Control and Adjustment Locations .............................................................................................................................8
1.7 ... Owner Assistance ................................................................................................................................................................8
1.8 ... Model Identification ..........................................................................................................................................................9
1.9 ... Further Assistance .............................................................................................................................................................9
2 SAFETY ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 ... General Safety Rules ..........................................................................................................................................................9
2.2 ... PRODUCT-SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES ...................................................................................................................... 11
2.3 ... ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .............................................................................................................................. 11
2.4 ... Safety Decals ...................................................................................................................................................................... 14
2.5 ... Training ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.6 ... Preparation ........................................................................................................................................................................ 16
2.7 ... Operation ............................................................................................................................................................................ 16
2.8 ... Storage ................................................................................................................................................................................. 17
3 PARTS BREAKDOWN ........................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1 ... Chaincase Breakdown ................................................................................................................................................... 18
3.2 ... Tines Breakdown ............................................................................................................................................................. 19
3.3 ... Main Unit Breakdown ................................................................................................................................................... 20
3.4 ... General Information ....................................................................................................................................................... 23
4 ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................................................................ 23
4.1 ... Final Set-up ........................................................................................................................................................................ 23
5 OPERATING CONTROLS ..................................................................................................................................... 25
5.1 ... To Start Engine ................................................................................................................................................................. 25
6 MACHINE IDENTIFICATION COMPONENTS .............................................................................................. 26
7 OPERATION ............................................................................................................................................................. 27
7.1 ... Drive operation................................................................................................................................................................. 27
7.2 ... Tine operation ................................................................................................................................................................... 27
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7.3 ... Safe operation while tilling ......................................................................................................................................... 27
7.4 ... Depth Bar Stake ............................................................................................................................................................... 28
7.5 ... Turning sharply ................................................................................................................................................................ 28
7.6 ... Tilling .................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
7.7 ... Cultivating .......................................................................................................................................................................... 29
8 Transporting – pushing tiller without engine running/power .......................................................... 30
8.1 ... Hydraulic Pump Lock Out/Release ......................................................................................................................... 30
9 MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION ............................................................................................................. 31
9.1 ... Cleaning ............................................................................................................................................................................... 31
9.2 ... Cleaning the Cooling System ...................................................................................................................................... 31
9.3 ... Dual Filter Element Air Cleaner ................................................................................................................................ 32
9.4 ... Engine Oil – 1.16 quart, (38.63 oz).......................................................................................................................... 32
9.5 ... Hydraulic Pump - Internal Pump Purging ........................................................................................................... 33
9.6 ... Hydraulic Hose Purging ............................................................................................................................................... 34
9.7 ... Hydraulic Oil - Capacity is approx. one gallon. .................................................................................................. 35
9.8 ... Tine Chain Case ................................................................................................................................................................ 36
9.9 ... Muffler .................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
9.10 . Spark Plug ........................................................................................................................................................................... 37
10 Tire Care .................................................................................................................................................................... 37
10.1 . Maintenance Schedule .................................................................................................................................................. 37
11 WARRANTY ............................................................................................................................................................. 38
11.1 . Warranty/Product Registration .............................................................................................................................. 38
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⚠ WARNING
READ ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE MACHINE
If incorrectly used, this machine can cause severe injury. Those who use and maintain this machine
should be trained in its proper use, warned of its dangers, and should read the entire manual before
attempting to set up, operate, adjust, or service this machine.
Read and keep this manual for future reference. This manual contains important information on
SAFETY, ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE. The owner must be certain that all the product
information is included with the unit. This information includes the MANUAL, the REPLACEMENT
PARTS, and the WARRANTIES. This information must be included to make sure state laws and other
laws are followed. This manual should remain with the product even if it is resold.
⚠ WARNING
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARMS.
IMPORTANT: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or
near any unimproved forest-covered, brush covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust
system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local laws (if any). If a spark arrester is
used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California, a spark arrester is required by law (section 4442 of the California public
resources code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. See your
authorized service center for a spark arrester.
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1 INTRODUCTION
Maxim rear-tine tillers feature heavy gauge steel, hardened steel tines and ruggedly built
Hydrostatic transmission. For additional durability, an extra heavy-duty frame. It is this simple, yet
sturdy design that makes Maxim tillers low maintenance and easy to use.
Please read this entire manual before assembly and use. The manufacturer reserves the right
to change, alter or improve the product and this document at any time without prior notice.
1.1 Application
Tillers in the rental industry must be able to withstand heavy use, rough handling, and
transportation bruises, yet still rent tomorrow. These beefy tillers combine ease
of operation and maintenance to make a tiller worthy of the Maxim name.
1.2 Benefits
• Rear tine tiller operation provides an easier to handle, better tilling operation, especially
in fresh un-tilled ground.
• Hydraulic Transmission provide ease of use, with having infinite variable speed between
high and low operation, also provides increased durability.
• Heavy-duty tines with bolt-on replaceable blades.
• Both Forward and Reverse tine operation for that perfect tilling job.
• Heavy-duty steel wheels with “Bar” type tires.
• Heavy-duty frame for long life.
• Depth bar standard for tilling depth control.
1.3 Navigating This Manual
1. Use this manual to help familiarize yourself with safety, operation, adjustments,
troubleshooting, maintenance, specifications, and warranty information. It is very
important that you read this manual and follow the instructions to ensure safe operation
of the attachment.
2. Please visit www.maximmfg.com for updated information.
1.4 Warnings and Safety Precautions
The safety of our customers and other’s well-being is very important to us. Using this equipment
is an important responsibility. Safe and effective use of the machine is the owner’s responsibility.
• Read and follow all safety instructions.
• Maintain the machine according to directions and schedule included in this manual.
• Ensure that anyone who uses the machine is familiar with all controls and safety
precautions.
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SPECIAL MESSAGES
Please read all the information carefully to avoid injury and machine damage. This information
alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the manual that may help the operator in the
operation or service of the machine.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:
1. Safety labels – on the tillers
2. Safety messages – preceded by a safety alert symbol ⚠ and one of the three signal
words: DANGER, WARNING, OR CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
DANGER: You will be killed or seriously injured if you do not follow instructions
WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you do not follow instructions.
CAUTION: You can be injured if you do not follow instructions.
⚠ DANGER
⚠ WARNING
WARNING INDICATED A HAZARD WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH
OR SERIOUS INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE
⚠ CAUTION
CAUTION INDICATED YOU CAN BE HURT OR YOUR EQUIPMENT DAMAGED IF THE
SAFETY INSTUCTIONS THAT FOLLOW THIS SIGNAL WORD ARE NOT OBEYED.
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Left
Right
⚠ This symbol points out important safety instructions which if not followed could endanger
your personal safety. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this equipment.
BEFORE OPERATING ENGINE:
Please read this section carefully. Read entire operating and maintenance instructions for this
product. Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury or death. Operate the
machine according to the safety instructions outlined here and inserted throughout the text.
Anyone who uses this machine must read the instructions and be familiar with the controls.
Intended Use / Foreseeable Misuse
IMPORTANT: This is a motorized rotary tiller that works the soil by means of rotating tines. It is
pedestrian-controlled using hand controls that operating both tine rotation forward/directions
and controls that power the entire machine both forward and reverse. It uses a
gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine to power the tines. It shall not be used
for any other purpose.
1.5 Operation References/Terminology
References throughout this manual referred to as “Right” or “Left” are determined
by being face-standing behind tiller and facing the direction the unit will operate
while in use.
⚠ WARNING
CALIFONINA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE
OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM.
⚠ WARNING
YOU MUST READ, UNDERSTAND AND COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SETUP AND OPERATE YOUR
MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY AND OPERATIING INSTRUCTIONS CAN RESULT IN
LOSS OF MACHINE CONTROL, SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY TO YOU AND/OR
BYSTANDERS, AND RISK OF EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. THE TRIANGLE IN THE
TEXT SIGNIFIES IMPORATNT CAUTIONS OR WARNINGS WHICH MUST BE FOLLOWED
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1.6 Control and Adjustment Locations
Familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments located on the unit.
1.7 Owner Assistance
Please complete the Warranty/Product Registration at the time of purchase. You will need to
complete the warranty/product registration form (pg. 38) with your new unit, or you may visit our
website www.maximmfg.com and complete our online product registration form. We require
this information so we can keep you updated with any important information about your tiller
and provide you with the best customer service possible.
The parts and components used on your Maxim tiller have been specifically engineered for Maxim
tiller and should only be replaced with Maxim parts. Contact your local Maxim Dealer for OEM
replacement parts or contact our customer service department for assistance in parts, locating
your local servicing dealer and more. Your local dealer is equipped and trained to handle service
and repair for your tiller.
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1.8 Model Identification
Please fill in your model and serial number below for future reference. This will help assist in
prompt service when ordering parts and service from your local Maxim Dealer.
Tiller Model No.___________________ Tiller Serial No. ______________________________
Engine Model No.__________________ Engine Serial No. _____________________________
Refer to the image below for location of your serial number plate:
1.9 Further Assistance
Your dealer and all of us at Maxim want you to be pleased with
your tiller. Should you require further assistance or have questions regarding your tiller, please
contact your local dealer where you purchased your tiller. If you are unable to satisfy your needs
by your local dealer, please contact us at:
Maxim
20195 South Diamond Lake Road, STE 100
Rogers, MN 55374
800-621-2789
www.maximmfg.com
2 SAFETY
2.1 General Safety Rules
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s). Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and proper use of the machine before starting.
• Disengage all controls before starting the engine (motor).
• Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
• Familiarize yourself with all the safety and operating decals on this equipment and on any
of its attachments or accessories.
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating position.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Engine
Serial
Number
Tiller Serial Number
under handlebar
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• Only allow responsible individuals who are familiar with the instructions to operate the
machine. Do not allow children to operate this machine. Do not allow adults to operate
the machine without proper instruction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be used and remove all foreign
objects. Your equipment can propel small objects at high-speed causing personal injury or
property damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such as house windows,
automobiles, greenhouse, etc.
• Wear appropriate clothing such as sturdy, rough-soled shoes (steel toe recommended)
and close-fitting pants and shirt. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry can be caught in moving
parts. Never wear shorts. Never wear sandals, sneakers, or open shoes, and never
operate the machine with bare feet.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught in moving parts. Always keep
hands, feet, hair, and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and machine.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating the
machine to protect your eyes from foreign objects which can be thrown from the unit.
• Always wear a protective hearing device.
• Always wear work gloves and sturdy rugged soled footwear. Wear footwear that will
improve footing on slippery surfaces. Leather work shoes or short boots work well for
most people. These will protect the operator’s ankles and shins from small sticks,
splinters, and other debris.
• It is advisable to wear protective headgear to prevent the possibility of being struck by
small flying particles, or being struck by low hanging branches, twigs or other objects
which may be unnoticed by the operator.
• Do not operate the machine without proper guards or other safety protective devices in
place.
• Operate only in daylight.
• Do not operate product when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other
medication which can cause drowsiness or affect your ability to operate machine safely.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing; keep a firm hold on
the handle and walk; never run.
• Watch for traffic when operating tiller near, or when crossing roads.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor), rotate the
ON/OFF switch located on the engine to the OFF position.
• Regularly inspect the machine. Make sure parts are not bent, damaged or loose.
• Temperature of muffler and nearby areas may exceed 150° F (65° C). Allow muffler and
engine areas to cool before touching.
• Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline engine-powered equipment
should be avoided. Take intermittent breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine
noise as well as heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in hands.
• Keep all screws, nuts, and bolts tight.
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• Do not transport the machine from one place to another with the engine running.
• Always turn off fuel supply valve on engine before transport.
• Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this machine.
2.2 PRODUCT-SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
• Do not till above underground utilities, including water lines, gas lines, electric cables, or
pipe. Contact appropriate utility representatives to determine if/where electrical
cables, gas lines, water lines, etc. are buried BEFORE operation.
• Do not operate the machine on terrain/soil with large rocks and foreign objects which can
damage the equipment.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine. Rotate the ON/OFF switch located on the
engine to the OFF position. Inspect the machine for damage. If damaged, repair before
starting and operating the machine.
• The tines of the tiller should not rotate when the engine is idling. If they do, contact your
local dealer or Maxim technical service for instruction.
• If an object becomes lodged in the tines, rotate the ON/OFF switch located on the engine
to the OFF position. Allow the machine to cool before attempting to remove the foreign
object.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children, and pets.
2.3 ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
⚠ WARNING
ENGINES GIVE OFF CARBON MONOXIDE, AN ODORLESS, COLORLESS, POISONOUS GAS. CARBON MONOXIDE
MAY BE PRESENT EVEN IF YOU DO NOT SMELL OR SEE ANY ENGINE EXHAUST. BREATHING CARBON
MONOXIDE CAN CAUSE NAUSEA, FAINTING OR DEATH, IN ADDITION TO DROWSINESS, DIZZINESS AND
CONFUSION.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS, SEEK FRESH AIR AND MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.
⚠ CAUTION
HOT GASES ARE A NORMAL BY-PRODUCT OF A FUNCTIONING INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE. FOLLOW
ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS TO PREVENT BURNS AND FIRES.
DO NOT ALTER/MODIFY ENGINE:
NEVER ALTER OR MODIFY THE ENGINE FROM THE FACTORY. SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH MAY OCCUR IF
ENGINE IS MODIFIED OR ALTERED.
WHEN WORKING ON OR REPLACING PARTS FOR THE ENGINE OR PRODUCT, YOU MUST ALWAYS FLIP THE
ON/OFF SWITCH TO THE OFF POSITION.
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PREVENTING CARBON MONOXIDE POSIONING
• Always start and run engine outdoors. Do not start or run engine in an enclosed area,
even if doors or windows are open.
• Never try to ventilate engine exhaust indoors. Carbon monoxide can reach dangerous
levels very quickly.
• Never run engine outdoors where exhaust fumes may be pulled into a building.
• Never run engine outdoors in a poorly ventilated area where the exhaust fumes may be
trapped and not easily taken away. (Examples include in a large hole or areas where hills
• surround your working area.)
• Never run engine in an enclosed or partially enclosed area. (Examples include buildings
that are enclosed on one or more sides, under tents, car ports or basements.)
• Always run the engine with the exhaust pointed in the direction away from the operator.
• Never point the exhaust towards anyone. People should always be a minimum of ten feet
away from the operation of the engine and its attachments.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine.
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating position.
GASOLINE FIRES AND HANDLING FUEL SAFELY
⚠ Warning gasoline is highly flammable and explosive
You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Use extreme care when handling
gasoline or other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
• When storing extra fuel be sure that it is in an appropriate
container and away from any fire hazards.
• Prevent fire and explosion caused by static electric discharge.
Use only nonmetal, portable fuel containers approved by the
Underwriter’s Laboratory (U.L.) or the American Society for
Testing & Materials (ASTM).
• Always fill fuel tank outside in a well-ventilated area. Never fill
fuel tank with fuel indoors. (Examples include basement, garage,
barn, shed, house, porch, etc.) Never fill tank near appliances
with pilot lights, heaters, or other ignition sources. If the fuel
must be drained, this should be done outdoors. The drained fuel should be stored in a
container specifically designed for fuel storage or it should be disposed of carefully.
• Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Stop engine and allow to
cool before filling.
• Do not smoke while using engine or around fuel.
• Never drain fuel from engine in an enclosed area.
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• Always wipe up excess (spilled) fuel from engine before starting. Clean up spilled fuel
immediately. If fuel is spilled, do not start the engine but move product and fuel container
from area. Clean up spilled fuel and allow to evaporate and dry after wiping and before
starting.
• Allow fuel fumes/vapors to escape from the air before starting the engine.
• Test the fuel cap for proper installation before starting and using engine.
• Always run the engine with fuel cap properly installed on the engine.
• Never smoke while refilling engine fuel tank.
• Do not store engine with fuel in fuel tank indoors. Fuel and fuel vapors are highly
explosive.
• Never pour fuel from engine fuel tank.
• Never siphon fuel by mouth to drain fuel tank.
• Always have an adult fill the fuel tank and never allow children to fill the engine.
• Never allow anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol to fill the engine.
• When storing gasoline or equipment with fuel in the tank, store away from furnaces,
stoves, water heaters or other appliances that have a pilot light or other ignition source
because they can ignite gasoline vapors.
BURNS AND FIRES
The muffler, muffler guard and other parts of the engine become extremely hot during the
operation of the engine. These parts remain extremely hot after the engine has stopped.
• Never remove the muffler guard from the engine.
• Never touch the muffler guard because it is extremely hot and will cause severe burns.
• Never touch parts of the engine that become hot after operation.
• Always keep materials and debris away from the muffler guard and other hot parts of the
engine to avoid fires.
CHILDREN AND BYSTANDERS
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children and/or
bystanders. Never assume that others will remain where you last saw them.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially small children, and pets. Keep
children under the watchful care of a responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure vision.
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