MC900
Operator's Manual / 96083000400 / 2009-11
532 43 21-09
SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Powered Ro ta ry Tillers
TRAINING
• Read the Owner’s Manual care ful ly. Be thor ough ly
fa mil iar with the controls and the proper use of the
equip ment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage
the controls quickly.
• Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never
allow adults to op er ate the equipment without proper
instruction.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, par tic u lar ly small children, and pets.
PREPARATION
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is
to be used and remove all foreign objects.
• Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before
starting the engine (mo tor).
• Do not operate the equipment with out wearing ad e quate outer gar ments. Wear footwear that will im prove
footing on slippery surfaces.
• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
• Use an approved fuel container.
• Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel
tank indoors.
• Replace gasoline cap securely and clean up spilled
fuel before restarting.
• Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by
the manufacturer for all units with electric drive motors
or electric starting motors.
• Never attempt to make any adjustments while the
engine (motor) is running (except where specifically
rec om mend ed by manufacturer).
OPERATION
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Exercise extreme caution when op er at ing on or cross ing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden
hazards or traffic. Do not carry pas sen gers.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (motor),
remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly in spect
the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before
restarting and op er at ing the tiller.
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
• If the unit should start to vibrate ab nor mal ly, stop the
engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause.
Vi bra tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving the operating
position.
• Take all possible precautions when leav ing the ma chine
unattended. Disengage the tines, shift into neutral, and
stop the engine.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, shut off the
engine and make certain all moving parts have stopped.
Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
from the plug to prevent accidental starting. Disconnect
the cord on electric motors.
• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are
dangerous.
• Never operate the tiller without proper guards, plates,
or other safety protective devices in place.
• Keep children and pets away.
• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting
to till too deep at too fast a rate.
• Never operate the machine at high speeds on slippery
surfaces. Look behind and use care when backing.
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.
• Use only attachments and accessories approved by
the manufacturer of the tiller.
• Never operate the tiller without good visibility or light.
• Be careful when tilling in hard ground. The tines may
catch in the ground and propel the tiller forward. If this
occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not restrain the
machine.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
• Keep machine, attachments, and accessories in safe
work ing condition.
• Check shear pins, engine mounting bolts, and other
bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure the equip ment is in safe working condition.
• Never store the machine with fuel in the fuel tank inside
a building where ignition sources are present, such
as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers, and
the like. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
• Always refer to the operator’s guide instructions for
im por tant details if the tiller is to be stored for an extended period.
- IMPORTANT -
CAUTIONS, IMPORTANTS, AND NOTES ARE A MEANS OF
ATTRACTING ATTENTION TO IMPORTANT OR CRIT I CAL
IN FOR MA TION IN THIS MANUAL.
IMPORTANT: USED TO ALERT YOU THAT THERE IS A
POS SI BIL I TY OF DAM AG ING THIS EQUIP MENT.
NOTE: Gives essential information that will aid you to
better un der stand, incorporate, or execute a particular set
of instructions.
Look for this symbol to point out im por tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BE COME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it can not contact spark plug in order to pre vent ac ci den tal starting when setting
up, trans port ing, adjusting or making
re pairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product con tains chem i cals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity: 3 Quarts (2.8L)
Unleaded Reg u lar
Oil (API-SG-SL): SAE 30 (Above 32°F)
(Capacity: 16 oz./0.47 L) SAE 5W-30 (Below 32°F)
Spark Plug : NGK-BPR6ES
(Gap: .030"/0.76mm) TORCH-F6RTC
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tiller. It
has been designed, en gi neered and manu fac tured to give
you the best pos sible de penda bil ity and per form ance.
Should you experience any prob lems you can not easily
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service
center. We have com pe tent, well-trained tech ni cians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
Please read and retain this manual. The in struc tions will
enable you to assemble and main tain your tiller prop erly.
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for
and using your tiller.
• Follow instructions under “Maintenance” and “Stor age”
sections of this Manual.
IMPORTANT: THIS UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH AN INTERNAL
COMBUSTION ENGINE AND SHOULD NOT BE USED ON
OR NEAR ANY UNIMPROVED FOREST-COVERED, BRUSHCOVERED 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 WORK ING 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 L AWS APPLY ON FEDERAL LANDS.
SEE YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT
FOR SPARK ARRESTER.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ....................................... 3
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................. 3
ASSEMBLY ................................................................. 4-5
OPERATION ...............................................................6-9
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 10
MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 10-12
SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS ................................. 12-14
STORAGE .................................................................... 15
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................. 16
WARRANTY ................................................BACK PAGE
3
ASSEMBLY
overhead_views_7
(2) Flange
Locknuts
5/16-18 UNC
(2) Lock
Washer
5/16
(2) Hex Nut
5/16-18
(2) Hex Bolt
5/16-18 x 1-1/4
(2) Carriage Bolts
5/16-18 UNC x 2-1/2
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK
(1) Manual
(1) Bottle
Engine Oil
Your new tiller has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard
wrench sizes are listed.
(1) Utility knife
(2) 1/2" wrenches
OPERATOR’S POSITION (See Fig. 1)
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it
means when you are in the operating position (standing
behind tiller handles).
LEFT
FRONT
RIGHT
OPERATOR'S POSITION
Fig. 1
4
depth_stake_4
ASSEMBLY
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HANDLE
(See Fig. 2)
CAUTION: Be careful of exposed
sta ples when handling or disposing
of cartoning material.
IMPORTANT: WHEN UNPACKING AND AS SEM BLING
TILLER, BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRETCH OR KINK
CABLE(S).
• Cut cable ties securing handle column.
•. Route cable(s) as shown and slide handle column onto
handle mount.
• Remove all packing from carton.
• Secure handle column using two (2) carriage bolts and
two (2) flange locknuts. Tighten se cure ly.
• Cut away carton.
• Route tine control cable(s) through plas tic cable clip
on handle mount.
NOTE: Cables must not touch the muffler.
• Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid. Re move tiller from
skid by pulling backwards.
• Remove screws securing depth stake to skid and
discard the screws.
HANDLE
PANEL
BOLTS
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE AS SEM BLY
(See Fig. 3)
• Loosen nut “A”.
• Insert stake support between engine brack et halves
with stake spring down.
• Bolt stake support to engine brackets with bolts, lock
washers and nuts. Tight en se curely. Tighten nut “A”.
• Depth stake must move freely. If it does not, loosen
support bolt.
ENGINE BRACK ET
HALVES
NUT “A”
DEPTH STAKE
SUPPORT
HEX BOLTS,
LOCK WASH ERS,
AND HEX NUTS
DEPTH
STAKE
SUPPORT
BOLT
STAKE
SPRING
CABLE(S)
TILLER
HANDLES
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
HANDLE HEIGHT
• Handle height may be adjusted to better suit operator.
(See “HANDLE HEIGHT” in the Service and Ad just ments section of this manual).
TILLING WIDTH
• Tilling width may be adjusted to better handle your
tilling con di tions (See “TINE ARRANGEMENT” in the
Service and Adjustments section of this manual).
TINE OPERATION
• Check tine operation before first use. (See “TINE OPERATION CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual).
5
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TILLER
READ THIS MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TILLER.
Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
Forward Tine
Control
Throttle Control
Choke Control
Depth
Stake
Recoil Starter
Handle
Fuel Fill Port
Fuel Valve
On/Off Switch
Tines
Fig. 4
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when start ing a cold engine.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed and the depth
at which tiller will dig.
ENGINE ON/OFF SWITCH - The engine switch enables
and disables the ignition system.
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - En gag es tines in forward
direction.
FUEL VALVE - The fuel valve opens and closes the passage between the fuel tank and the carburetor.
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to start the engine.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to con trol en gine speed.
6
depth_stake_4
OPERATION
The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your tiller
and while tilling. We recommend a wide vision safety mask for over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER
Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel and oil
or attempting to start engine.
STOPPING (See Fig. 5)
TINES
1. Release tine control to stop move ment.
ENGINE
2. Move throttle control to “SLOW” po si tion and allow the
engine to run slowly for cool down.
3. Turn the engine switch to the "OFF" Position.
4. Turn the fuel valve lever to the "OFF" Position.
NOTE: NEVER USE CHOKE TO STOP ENGINE.
IMPORTANT: TO STOP ENGINE IN AN EMERGENCY, TURN
THE ENGINE SWITCH TO THE OFF POSITION.
Tine Control
“Off” (UP) Po si tion
Tine Control
“On” (DOWN) Po si tion
TILLING
The speed and depth of tilling is regulated by the position
of the depth stake and wheel height.
The depth stake should always be below the wheels for
digging. It serves as a brake to slow the tiller’s forward
motion to enable the tines to penetrate the ground. Also,
the more the depth stake is lowered into the ground the
deeper the tines will dig.
DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 6)
Adjust depth stake by removing the hairpin clip and clevis
pin. Change depth stake to desired position. Replace the
clevis pin and hairpin clip.
• For normal tilling, set depth stake at the second or third
hole from the top.
WHEELS (See Fig. 6)
Adjust wheels by removing the hairpin clip and clevis pin.
Change wheel position. Replace the hairpin clip and clevis
pin.
• For normal tilling, set wheels at the second or third
hole from the top.
HAIRPIN CLIP
AND CLEVIS PIN
Throttle
Control
Engine
Switch
1
Throttle
Control
Fuel
Valve
Fig. 5
TINE OPERATION (See Fig. 6)
FORWARD
• Squeeze forward tine control to handle.
Fuel Valve
Engine
Switch
DEPTH
STAKE
SPRING
WHEEL
STAKE
Fig. 6
7
OPERATION
engine_art_4
TO TRANSPORT
CAUTION: Before lifting or trans port ing,
allow tiller engine and muffler to cool.
Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain
gasoline from fuel tank.
AROUND THE YARD
• Tip depth stake forward until it is held by the stake
spring.
• Push tiller handles down, raising tines off the ground.
• Push or pull tiller to desired location.
AROUND TOWN
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Drain fuel tank.
• Transport in upright position to prevent oil leakage.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
IMPORTANT: BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT
TO ENTER THE ENGINE WHEN CHECKING OR ADDING
OIL OR FUEL. USE CLEAN OIL AND FUEL AND STORE IN
AP PROVED, CLEAN, COVERED CONTAINERS. USE CLEAN
FILL FUNNELS.
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL (See Fig. 7)
• With engine level, remove engine oil filler plug.
• Fill engine with oil to point of overflowing. For ap proxi mate ca pac i ty see “PRODUCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on
page 3 of this manual.
• Tilt tiller back on its wheels and then re-level.
• With engine level, refill to point of overflowing if nec es sary. Re place oil filler plug.
• For cold weather operation you should change oil for
easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section of
this manual.
Oil Level
Max Upper Level
Min Lower Level
Fig. 7
ADD GASOLINE
• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill.
Use fresh, clean, regular un lead ed gasoline with a
minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce
valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel
in quan ti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure
fuel freshness.
Oil Filler
Plug
CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow
for fuel expansion. If gasoline is ac ci den tal ly spilled, move machine away
from area of spill. Avoid creating any
source of ignition until gasoline vapors
have disappeared.
Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not
store, spill or use gasoline near an
open flame.
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES
BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE
GAS O LINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER
START ING.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called
gas o hol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to sep a ra tion and
for ma tion of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine while
in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel
system should be emptied before stor age of
30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
sea son. See Storage In struc tions for additional
information. Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 8)
CAUTION: KEEP TINE CONTROL IN “OFF”
PO SI TION WHEN STARTING ENGINE.
When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run
out of fuel, it will take ex tra pulls of the recoil starter to
move fuel from the tank to the engine.
1. Make sure spark plug wire is prop er ly connected.
2. Place the fuel valve to the "ON" position.
3. To start a cold engine, move the choke lever to the
"ON" position.
4. Move the throttle lever away from the "SLOW" position,
about 1/3 of the way toward the "FAST" position.
5. Turn the engine switch to the "ON" position. Pull rope
out slowly until engine reaches start of com pres sion
cy cle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point).
6. Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not let starter
handle snap back against starter. Repeat if necessary.
NOTE: IF ENGINE FIRES BUT DOES NOT START, MOVE
CHOKE CONTROL TO HALF CHOKE POSITION. PULL RECOIL
STARTER HANDLE UNTIL ENGINE STARTS.
7. If the choke lever has been moved to the "ON" position
to start the engine, gradually move it to the opposite
position as the engine warms up.
NOTE: A WARM ENGINE REQUIRES LESS CHOK ING TO
START.
8. Move throttle control to desired running position.
9. Allow engine to warm up for a few min utes before
engaging tines.
NOTE: IF ENGINE DOES NOT START, SEE TROU BLE SHOOT ING
8
POINTS.
321
5
4
67
OPERATION
Spark Plug
Throttle Control
Choke
Con trol
Spark Plug
Throttle Control
Choke
Con trol
Recoil Starter
Recoil Starter
Fig. 8
Fuel Valve
Fuel Valve
Engine
Switch
Engine
Switch
• Soil conditions are important for proper tilling. Tines will
not readily penetrate dry, hard soil which may con trib ute
to excessive bounce and difficult handling of your tiller.
Hard soil should be mois tened before tilling; however,
extremely wet soil will “ball-up” or clump during tilling.
Wait until the soil is less wet in order to achieve the
best results. When tilling in the fall, remove vines and
long grass to prevent them from wrapping around the
tine shaft and slowing your tilling operation.
• You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row untilled between passes. Then go back between tilled
rows. (See Fig. 9) There are two reasons for doing
this. First, wide turns are much easier to negotiate than
about-faces. Sec ond, the tiller won’t be pulling itself,
and you, toward the row next to it.
• Set depth stake and wheel height for shallow tilling
when working extremely hard soil or sod. Then work
across the first cuts at normal depth.
BREAKING IN YOUR TILLER
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine control before you
actually begin tilling.
• Start engine, tip tines off ground by pressing handles
down and engage tine control to start tine rotation.
Allow tines to rotate for five minutes.
• Check tine operation and adjust if necessary. See “TINE
OPERATION CHECK” in the Service and Ad just ments
sec tion of this manual.
TILLING HINTS
CAUTION: Until you are accustomed
to handling your tiller, start ac tu al field
use with throttle in slow position.
To help tiller move forward, lift up the handles slightly (thus
lifting depth stake out of ground). To slow down the tiller,
press down on handles.
CULTIVATING
Cultivating is destroying the weeds between rows to pre vent them from robbing nourishment and moisture from the
plants. At the same time, breaking up the upper layer of
soil crust will help retain moisture in the soil. Best digging
depth is 1"-3".
• You will probably not need to use the depth stake. Begin
by tipping the depth stake forward until it is held by the
stake spring.
• Cultivate up and down the rows at a speed which will
allow tines to uproot weeds and leave the ground in
rough con di tion, promoting no fur ther growth of weeds
and grass (See Fig. 10).
If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the wheels and depth
stake are not set properly in the soil being tilled. The proper
setting of the wheels and depth stake is through trial and
error and depends upon the soil con di tion. (The harder or
wetter the ground, the slower the engine and tine speed
needed. Under these poor con di tions, at fast speed the
tiller will run and jump over the ground).
A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little effort from the
operator.
• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and breaking up
packed soil before planting. Loose, unpacked soil helps
root growth. Best tilling depth is 4"-6". A tiller will also
clear the soil of unwanted vege ta tion. The de com po si tion
of this vegetable mat ter en rich es the soil. De pend ing
on the climate (rain fall and wind), it may be advisable
to till the soil at the end of the growing season to further
condition the soil.
9
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
Oil Pivot Points
Inspect Air Screen
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins
Replace Spark Plug
BEFORE EACH USE
EVERY 25 HOURS
EVERY 5 HOURS
EVERY 50 HOURS
SERVICE DATES
2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
MAINTENANCE
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this tiller does not cover items that have
been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive
full value from the warranty, the operator must main tain tiller
as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to
properly maintain your tiller.
At least once a season, check to see if you should make
any of the adjustments described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean
or replace air filter, and check tines and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper
air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and
last longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check tine operation.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).
LUBRICATION CHART
c TINE CON TROL
d EN GINE
c IDLER
ARM
cSAE 30 OR 10W-30 MOTOR OIL
dREFER TO MAINTENANCE “ENGINE” SECTION
10
ENGINE
MAINTENANCE
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance (except car bu re tor adjustment) to
prevent accidental start ing of engine.
Prevent fires! Keep the engine free of grass, leaves, spilled oil, or fuel. Re move fuel from tank
before tipping unit for maintenance. Clean muffler area of all grass, dirt, and debris.
Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as contact may cause burns.
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classification SG-SL. Select the oil’s SAE vis cos i ty grade
according to your expected temperature.
ªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªªª3!%ª6)3#/3)49ª'2!$%3
4%-0%2!452%ª2!.'%ª!.4)#)0!4%$ª"%&/2%ª.%84ª/),ª#(!.'%
Fig. 11
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W-30, 10W-30, etc.)
improve starting in cold weather, these multi viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption when used above
32°F (0°C). Check your engine oil level more frequently to
avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least
once a year if the tiller is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine
and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Add SAE
30 motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug securely
each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs. 11 and 12)
Determine temperature range expected before oil change.
All oil must meet API service classification SG-SL.
• Be sure tiller is on level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• Remove drain plug.
• Tip tiller forward to drain oil.
• After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug
and tighten securely.
• Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to allow dirt to
enter the engine.
• Refill engine with oil. See “CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL”
in the Operation section of this manual.
OIL
engine_art_12
DRAIN
PLUG
OIL LEVEL
OIL FILLER
PLUG
Fig. 12
AIR CLEANER (See Fig. 13)
Service air cleaner cartridge every twenty-five hours, more
often if engine is used in very dusty conditions.
• Loosen air cleaner screws, one on each side of
cover.
• Remove air cleaner cover.
• Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge. Be care ful. Do
not allow dirt or de bris to fall into carburetor.
• Clean by tapping gently on a flat surface.
• If very dirty or damaged, replace cartridge.
• Clean and re place cover. Tighten screws securely.
IMPORTANT: PETROLEUM SOLVENTS, SUCH AS KER O SENE,
ARE NOT TO BE USED TO CLEAN THE CAR TRIDGE. THEY
MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION OF THE CARTRIDGE. DO
NOT OIL CARTRIDGE. DO NOT USE PRESSURIZED AIR TO
CLEAN OR DRY CARTRIDGE.
Air Clean er
Car tridge
Pre-Cleaner
Cover
11
Air Cleaner
Screws
Fig. 13
MAINTENANCE
COOLING SYSTEM (See Fig. 14)
Your engine is air cooled. For proper en gine performance
and long life keep your engine clean.
• Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-bristled brush.
• Remove blower housing and clean as nec es sary.
• Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.
Muffler
Cylinder Fins
Air Screen
Fig. 14
Blower
Housing
MUFFLER
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not tamper with
exhaust system. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters could
create a fire hazard. Inspect pe ri odi cally and re place if
nec es sary. If your engine is equipped with a spark arrester
screen assembly, re move every 50 hours for cleaning and
inspection. Re place if dam aged.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each tilling sea son or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first.
Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in “PROD UCT
SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on page 3 of this manual.
TRANSMISSION
Your transmission is sealed and will not require lubrication
unless serviced.
CLEANING
Do not clean your tiller when the engine and transmission
are hot. We do not rec om mend using pressurized water
(gar den hose, etc.) to clean your unit un less the gasket
area around the trans mis sion and the engine muf fler, air
fil ter and car bu re tor are cov ered to keep wa ter out. Wa ter
in en gine will short en the useful life of your tiller.
• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all foreign matter.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gas o line,
oil, etc.
• Protect painted surfaces with au to mo tive type wax.
12
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
tine_6
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come into
contact with plug.
TILLER
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT (See Fig. 15)
Factory assembly has provided lowest handle height. Se lect
handle height best suited for your tilling conditions. Handle
height will be different when tiller digs into soil.
• If a higher handle height is desired, loosen the four
nuts securing handle panel to engine brackets.
• Slide handle panel to desired location.
• Tighten the four nuts securely.
ENGINE BRACKETS
HANDLE
PANEL
NUTS (ALSO 2
ON LEFT SIDE
OF TILLER)
Fig. 15
TINE ARRANGEMENT
Your outer tines can be assembled in several different ways
to suit your tilling or cultivating needs.
CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when han dling tines.
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 24" PATH (See Fig. 17)
• Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes “C” in tine
shaft.
C
tine_5
A
C
A
Fig. 17
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING - 12-3/4" PATH
(See Fig. 18)
• Remove outer tines.
INNER TINES ONLY
Fig. 18
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines, be sure right tine
assembly (marked “R”) and left tine assembly (marked “L”)
are mounted to correct side of tine shaft.
TINE OPERATION CHECK (See Fig. 19)
NORMAL TILLING - 26" PATH (See Fig. 16)
• Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes “B” in tine
shaft.
OUTER
TINE
A
B
A
tine_4
HAIRPIN CLIP
CLEVIS
PIN
B
INNER TINE
Fig. 16
WARNING: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug to prevent starting while
checking tine operation.
For proper tine operation, forward tine control lever must be
against control body and all slack removed from inner wire of
control cable when control is in the “OFF” (up) position.
If lever and cable are loose, loosen cable clip at lower end of
cable. Pull up on cable to remove slack, without extending
spring on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.
FINAL CHECK “OFF” POSITION
• With tine control “OFF” (up), push down on handle to
raise tines off the ground.
• Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines.
Tines should not rotate.
• If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable is too tight
which is extending lower spring and engaging tines.
Loosen cable clip and push down on cable only enough
to relieve spring tension. Tighten cable clip.
• Recheck in “OFF” position and adjust if necessary.
13
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
FINAL CHECK “ON” POSITION
• With tine control “ON” (held down to handle) push down
on handle to raise tines off the ground.
• Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines.
Tines should rotate forward.
• If tines do not rotate, inner wire of control cable is too
loose. Loosen cable clip and pull cable up to remove
slack and retighten clip.
• Recheck in “ON” position and adjust if necessary.
NOTE: If “ON” position check required adjustment, re check
“OFF” position adjustment to insure tines do not rotate when
control is “OFF” (up).
FORWARD TINE
CONTROL IN “OFF”
(UP) POSITION
TINE CONTROL
“ON” POSITION
BODY
TINE CONTROL CABLE
CABLE CLIP
TO REPLACE V-BELT (See Fig. 21)
Replace V-belt if it has stretched con sid er ably or if it has cracks
or frayed edges.
• Belt guard must be removed to ser vice belt. See “TO
REMOVE BELT GUARD” in this section of manual.
LT REMOVAL
• Remove V-belt from trans mis sion pul ley first and then
from engine pul ley.
BELT REPLACEMENT
• Install new V-belt to engine pul ley first then to trans mis sion pulley. Be sure belt is po si tioned on inside groove
of both pulleys, inside all belt guides and rests on idler
pulley.CHECK TINE OPERATION
• See “TINE OPERATION CHECK” in this section of
man u al.
• Replace belt guard.
BELT GUIDE
ENGINE PULLEY
Fig. 19
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD (See Fig. 19)
• Remove screws from side of belt guard.
• Pull belt guard out and away from unit.
• Replace belt guard by re vers ing above procedure. Be
sure slot in bot tom of belt guard is under head of tine
shield bolt and all nuts are tight ened se cure ly.
BELT GUARD
SCREW
SCREW
BELT GUIDE
IDLER PULLEY
V-BELT
TRANSMISSION
PULLEY
Fig. 21
ENGINE
TO AD JUST CARBURETOR
The carburetor has been preset at the factory and ad just ment
should not be necessary. However, engine per for mance
can be affected by dif fer enc es in fuel, tem per a ture, al ti tude
or load. If the carburetor does need ad just ment, contact
your nearest authorized service center/de part ment
IMPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE GOVERNOR,
WHICH IS FACTORY SET FOR PROPER ENGINE SPEED.
OVER SPEED ING THE ENGINE ABOVE THE FACTORY HIGH
SPEED SETTING CAN BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THINK THE
ENGINE-GOVERNED HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING,
CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/
DEPARTMENT, WHICH HAS THE PROPER EQUIP MENT AND
EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NEC ES SARY ADJUSTMENTS.
Fig. 20
SCREW
14
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.
WARNING: Never store the tiller with
gasoline in the tank inside a build ing
where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
TILLER
• Clean entire tiller (See “CLEANING” in the Maintenance
section of this manual).
• Inspect and replace belts, if nec es sary (See belt re place ment in struc tions in the Service and Ad just ments
section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this
manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely
fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, break age
and wear. Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand
lightly before painting.
ENGINE
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean oil. (See
“ENGINE” in the Maintenance section of this man ual).
CYLINDER(S)
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into
cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly several times to distribute
oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give
protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable pro tec tive cover that
does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic
cannot breathe which allows con den sa tion to form and
will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER TILLER WHILE ENGINE AND
EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS
FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS SUCH
AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK
DURING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT
ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING
ETHANOL OR METHANOL) CAN ATTRACT MOISTURE WHICH
LEADS TO SEPARATION AND FORMATION OF ACIDS DURING
STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM
OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN STORAGE.
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and let it run
until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the
fuel tank or permanent.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stablizer is an acceptable alternative in
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during
storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stablizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stablizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor.
Do not empty the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel
stabilizer.
15
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Will not start 1. Out of fuel. 1. Fill fuel tank.
2. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. 2. See “TO START ENGINE” in the Operation section.
3. Engine flooded. 3. Wait several minutes before attempting to start.
4. Dirty air cleaner. 4. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
5. Water in fuel. 5. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, and refill tank with
fresh gasoline.
6. Clogged fuel tank. 6. Remove fuel tank and clean.
7. Loose spark plug wire. 7. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on
plug.
8. Bad spark plug or improper gap. 8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
9. Carburetor out of adjustment. 9. Make necessary adjustments.
Hard to start 1. Throttle control not set properly. 1. Place throttle control in “FAST” position.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
3. Bad spark plug or improper gap. 3. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.
4. Stale or dirty fuel. 4. Empty fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
5. Loose spark plug wire. 5. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on
plug.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment. 6. Make necessary adjustments.
Loss of power 1. Engine is overloaded. 1. Set depth stake and wheels for shallower tilling.
2. Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.
3. Low oil level/dirty oil. 3. Check oil level/change oil.
4. Faulty spark plug. 4. Clean and regap or change spark plug.
5. Oil in fuel. 5. Empty and clean fuel tank and refill, and clean
carburetor.
6. Stale or dirty fuel. 6. Empty fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
7. Water in fuel. 7. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, and refill tank with
fresh gasoline.
8. Clogged fuel tank. 8. Remove fuel tank and clean.
9. Spark plug wire loose. 9. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
10. Dirty engine air screen. 10. Clean engine air screen.
11. Dirty/clogged muffler. 11. Clean/replace muffler.
12. Carburetor out of adjustment. 12. Make necessary adjustments.
13. Poor compression. 13. Contact an authorized service center/department.
Engine overheats 1. Low oil level/dirty oil. 1. Check oil level/change oil.
2. Dirty engine air screen. 2. Clean engine air screen.
3. Dirty engine. 3. Clean cylinder fins, air screen, muffler area.
4. Partially plugged muffler. 4. Remove and clean muffler.
5. Improper carburetor adjustment. 5. Adjust carburetor to richer position.
Excessive bounce/ 1. Ground too dry and hard. 1. Moisten ground or wait for more favorable soil
difficult handling conditions.
2. Wheels and depth stake incorrectly adjusted. 2. Adjust wheels and depth stake.
Soil balls up or clumps 1. Ground too wet. 1. Wait for more favorable soil conditions.
Engine runs but tiller 1. Tine control is not engaged. 1. Engage tine control.
won’t move 2. V-belt not correctly adjusted. 2. Inspect/adjust V-belt.
3. V-belt is off pulley(s). 3. Inspect V-belt.
Engine runs but labors 1. Tilling too deep. 1. Set depth stake for shallower tilling.
when tilling 2. Throttle control not properly adjusted. 2. Check throttle control setting.
3. Carburetor out of adjustment. 3. Make necessary adjustments.
16
SERVICE NOTES
17
SERVICE NOTES
18
SERVICE NOTES
19
LIMITED WARRANTY
The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as manufactured is free from defects in materials and work man ship. For a period of one (1) years from date of purchase by the original consumer
purchaser, we will repair or replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any
part which we find to be defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions.
1. This warranty does not apply to the engine or components parts thereof. Please refer to the applicable manufacturer's warranty on these items.
2. Transportation charges for the movement of any power equipment unit or attachment are the responsibility of
the pur chaser. Transportation charges for any parts submitted for replacement under this warranty must be paid
by the purchaser unless such return is requested by the manufacturer.
3. The Warranty period for any products used for rental or commercial purposes is limited to 90 days from the date
of original purchase.
4. This Warranty applies only to products which have been properly assembled, adjusted, operated, and maintained
in ac cor dance with the instructions furnished. This Warranty does not apply to any product which has been
subjected to alteration, misuse, abuse, improper assembly or installation, delivery damage, or to normal wear
of the product.
5. Exclusions: Excluded from this Warranty are belts, tines, tine adapters, normal wear, normal adjustments, stan dard hard ware and normal maintenance.
6. In the event you have a claim under this Warranty, you must return the product to an authorized service dealer.
Should you have any unanswered questions concerning this Warranty, please contact:
McCulloch
Customer Service Dept.
1030 Stevens Creek Road
Augusta, GA 30907 USA
giving the model number, serial number and date of purchase of your product and the name and address of the
authorized dealer from whom it was purchased.
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED
WAR RAN TIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME PERIODS STATED HEREIN FOR OUR EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some areas do not allow the limitation of consequential damages or limitations of how long an implied
Warranty may last, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal
rights, and you may have other rights which vary from locale to locale.
This is a limited Warranty within the meaning of that term as defined in the Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975.
In Canada contact:
McCulloch
7075 Ordan Drive
Mississauga, Ontario
L5T 1K6
11.16.09 TH Printed in U.S.A.
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