McCulloch MRT850 Operator's Manual

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MRT850

Operator's Manual

Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for use in this machine.

The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.

532 44 65-34 Rev.1

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Powered Ro ta ry Tillers

TRAINING

• Read the 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 understand, 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: 3.2 Quarts (3.0L)
Unleaded Reg u lar

Oil (API:SG-SL): SAE 30 (Above 40°F/4°C)
(Capacity: 20 oz./0.6L) SAE 5W-30 (Below 40°F/4°C)

Spark Plug : Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030"/0.76mm)

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.

WARNING: 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
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 laws apply
on federal lands. See your authorized service center/
DEPARTMENT for spark arrester.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES .......................................................... 2

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...............................3

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .....................................3

ASSEMBLY ............................................................... 4-6

OPERATION ...........................................................7-11

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .................................... 12

MAINTENANCE ...................................................12-14

SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS ...............................15-18

STORAGE .................................................................. 19

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................... 20

3

(1) Hairpin Clip

(1) Carriage Bolt 

3/8-16 UNC x 1 Grade 5

(1) Center Locknut 

3/8-16 UNC

(1) Handle Lock Lever

(1) Flat Washer 13/32 x 1 x 11 Gauge

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

(2) Handle Locks



(1) Pivot Bolt 
3/8-16 UNC Grade 5

Extra Shear Pins & Clips

ASSEMBLY

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

(1) Tire pressure gauge

(1) Pair of pliers

(1) 9/16" wrench

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

ASSEMBLY

d

les_34

UNPACKING CARTON (See Fig. 2)

CAUTION: Be careful of exposed
sta ples when handling or disposing of
carton material.

IMPORTANT: WHEN UN PACK ING AND AS SEM BLING TILLER,

BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRETCH OR KINK CABLES.

• While holding handle assembly, cut cable ties se cur ing
handle assembly to top frame and depth stake. Let
handle assembly rest on tiller.

• Remove top frame of carton.

• Slowly ease handle assembly up and place on top of
carton.

• Cut down right hand front and right hand rear cor ners
of carton, lay side carton wall down.

• Remove packing material from handle assembly.

HANDLE
AS SEM BLY

SHIFT ROD

Fig. 2

INSTALL HANDLE (See Figs. 3, 4, and 5)

• Insert one handle lock (with teeth facing outward) in
gearcase notch. (Apply grease on smooth side of
handle lock to aid in keeping lock in place until handle
assembly is lowered into position.)

VIEWED FROM R.H. SIDE OF TILLER

HANDLE ASSEMBLY

GEARCASE
NOTCH

HANDLE
LOCK

• Grasp handle assembly. Hold in “up” position. Be sure
handle lock remains in gearcase notch. Slide handle
assembly into position.

HANDLE ASSEMBLY
"UP" POSITION

TIGHTEN HANDLE LOCK
LEVER TO HOLD

LOOSEN HANDLE
LOCK LEVER TO MOVE

Fig. 4

• Rotate handle assembly down. Insert rear carriage bolt
first, with bolt head on L.H. side of tiller and loosely
assemble locknut (See Fig. 5).

• Insert pivot bolt in front part of plate and tighten.

• Cut down remaining corners of carton and lay panels
flat.

• Lower the handle assembly. Tighten nut on carriage
bolt so handle moves with some resistance. This will
allow for easier adjustment.

• Place flat washer on threaded end of handle lock lever.

• Insert handle lock lever through handle base and
gearcase. Screw in handle lock lever just enough to
hold lever in place.

• Insert second handle lock (with teeth in ward) in the
slot of the handle base (just inside of washer).

• With handle assembly in lowest position, securely
tight en handle lock lever by rotating clockwise. Leav­ ing handle assembly in lowest position will make it
easier to remove tiller from carton.

HANDLE
LOCK

GEARCASE

SLOT

CARRIAGE
BOLT

FLAT
WASHER

HANDLE LOCK
LEVER

Fig. 3

PIVOT BOLT

HANDLE
BASE

LOCKNUT

Fig. 5

5

ASSEMBLY

CONNECT SHIFT ROD (See Fig. 6)

• Insert end of shift rod into hole of shift lever indicator.

• Insert hairpin clip through hole of shift rod to secure.

SHIFT

HAIRPIN

CLIP
SHIFT
ROD

REMOVE TILLER FROM CRATE

• Make sure shift lever indicator is in “N” position (See
Fig. 6)

• Tilt tiller forward by lifting handle. Separate cardboard
cover from leveling shield.

• Rotate tiller handle to the right and pull tiller out of
carton.

LEVER
INDICATOR

Fig. 6

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your unit were overinflated at the factory for
shipping purposes. Correct and equal tire pressure is
important for best tilling performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to 20 PSI (1.4 kg/cm2).

HANDLE HEIGHT

• Handle height may be adjusted to better suit operator.
(See “TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT” in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual).

6

CAUTION

OR WARNING

TILLING FORWARD NEUTRAL REVERSE

FAST SLOW

ENGINEONENGINE

OFF

OILFUELCHOKE

S

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.

TINE CONTROL

THROTTLE
CONTROL

SHIFT LEVER

CHOKE CONTROL

SHIFT LEVER IN DI CA TOR

DEPTH STAKE

LEVELING
SHIELD

OUTER SIDE
SHIELD

MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.
DEPTH STAKE - Controls depth at which tiller will dig.
TINE CONTROL - Used to engage tines.
LEVELING SHIELD - Levels tilled soil.
OUTER SIDE SHIELD - Adjustable to protect small plants

from being buried.

RECOIL
STARTER
HANDLE

Fig. 7

RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to start the engine.
SHIFT LEVER - Used to shift transmission gears.
SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR - Shows which gear the trans-

mis sion is in.

7

OPERATION

00155

dept

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2

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take

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1

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. 8

TINES AND DRIVE

• Release tine control to stop movement.

• Move shift lever to “N” (neutral) position.

ENGINE

• Move throttle control to “STOP” position.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

THROTTLE
CONTROL

TINE OPERATION - WITH WHEEL DRIVE

• Always release tine control before moving shift lever
into another position.

• Tine movement is achieved by moving shift lever to
either the counter rotating ( ) till position or the forward
rotating (

) till position and engaging tine control.

FORWARD - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED

• Release tine control and move shift lever in di ca tor to
“F” (forward) position. Engage tine control and tiller
will move forward.

SHIFT LEVER

TINE CONTROL

Fig. 8

TRANSPORT

SHALLOWEST
TILLING
(CULTIVATING)

DEEPEST
TILLING

DEPTH
STAKE

POSITION

Fig. 9

TILLING (See Fig. 10)

• Release depth stake pin. Pull the depth stake up for
increased tilling depth. Place depth stake pin in hole
of depth stake to lock in position.

• Place shift lever indicator in counter rotating ( ) till
position .

• Hold the tine control against the handle to start tilling
movement. Tines and wheels will both turn.

• Move throttle control to “FAST” position for deep tilling.
To cultivate, throttle control can be set at any desired
speed, depending on how fast or slow you wish to
cultivate.

IMPORTANT: ALWAYS RELEASE TINE CONTROL BEFORE
MOVING SHIFT LEVER INTO ANOTHER POSITION.

DEPTH STAKE PIN
“RELEASED” POSITION

REVERSE - WHEELS ONLY/TINES STOPPED

• DO NOT STAND DIRECTLY BEHIND TILLER.

• Release the tine control.

• Move throttle control to “SLOW” position.

• Move shift lever indicator to “R” (reverse) position.

• Hold tine control against the handle to start tiller move­ment.

HARD TO SHIFT GEARS

• Briefly engage tine control and release or rock tiller
forward and backward until are able to shift gears.

DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 9)

The depth stake can be raised or lowered to allow you more
versatile tilling and cul ti vat ing, or to more easily transport
your tiller.

8

NUT “B”

OUTER
SIDE SHIELD

“LOCKED”
POSITION

NUT “A”

Fig. 10

OPERATION

OUTER SIDE SHIELDS (See Fig. 10)

The back edges of the outer side shields are slotted so
that the shields can be raised for deep tilling and low ered
for shal low tilling to protect small plants from being buried.
Loosen nut “A” in slot and nut “B”. Move shield to desired
position (both sides). Retighten nuts.

TURNING

• Release the tine control.

• Move throttle control to “SLOW” position.

• Place shift lever indicator in “F” (forward) position. Tines
will not turn.

• Lift handle to raise tines out of ground.

• Swing the handle in the opposite direction you wish
to turn, being careful to keep feet and legs away from
tines.

• When you have completed your turn-around, release
the tine control and lower handle. Place shift lever in
(till) position and move throttle control to de sired speed.
To begin tilling, hold tine control against the handle.

CULTIVATING

• Use the forward rotating tine drive when cultivating,
tilling soft ground or tilling pre-tilled soil.

• Release depth and drag stake pins. Lower drag stake.
Pull the depth stake up for increased tilling depth. Place
proper pin in hole of depth stake or drag stake to lock
in position.

• Place shift lever indicator in forward rotating ( ) till
position.

• Hold the tine control against the handle to start tilling
movement. Tines and wheels will both turn.

• Move throttle control "FAST" position for deep tilling.
To cultivate, throttle control can be set at any desired
speed, depending on how fast or slow you wish to
cultivate.

• Always lower the drag stake when using the for ward

rotating tine drive.

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

• Release the depth stake pin. Move the depth stake
down to the top hole for transporting the tiller. Place
depth stake pin in hole of depth stake to lock in posi­tion. This prevents tines from scuffing the ground.

• Place shift lever indicator in “F” (forward) position for
transporting.

• Hold the tine control against the handle to start tiller
movement. Tines will not turn.

• Move throttle control to desired speed.

AROUND TOWN

• Disconnect spark plug wire.

• Drain fuel tank.

• Transport in upright position to prevent oil leakage.

BEFORE START ING 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
APPROVED, CLEAN, COVERED CONTAINERS. USE CLEAN
FILL FUNNELS.

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 11)

• The engine in your unit has been shipped, from the

factory, already filled with SAE 30 summer weight oil.

• With engine level, clean area around oil filler plug and
remove plug.

• Engine oil should be to point of overflowing when engine
is level. For ap proxi mate capacity see “PROD UCT
SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on page 3 of this manual. All oil
must meet A.P.I. Service Classification SG-SL.

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for
easier starting (See oil viscosity chart in the Mainte­nance sec tion of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in
this manual.

OIL
LEVEL

Fig. 11

9

OPERATION

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7

1

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill to within 1/2" of top of fuel tank to prevent spills and
to allow for fuel expansion. 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.

CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2" 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 BELOW

32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GAS O LINE
TO HELP ENSURE 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. 12)

CAUTION: Keep tine control in “DISEN­GAGED” position when start ing en gine.

When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run
out of fuel, it will take extra pulls of the recoil starter to
move fuel from the tank to the engine.

• Make sure spark plug wire is prop er ly connected.

• Move shift lever indicator to “N” (neutral) position.

• Place throttle control in “FAST” position.

• Turn fuel shut-off valve 1/4 turn to open position.

• Move choke control to choke position.

• Grasp recoil starter handle with one hand and grasp
tiller handle with other hand. Pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of com pres sion cycle (rope will
pull slightly harder at this point).

• Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not let starter
handle snap back against starter.

• If engine fires but does not start, move choke control
to half choke position. Pull recoil starter handle until
engine starts.

• When engine starts, slowly move choke control to
"RUN" position as engine warms up.

NOTE: A warm engine requires less choking to start.

• Move throttle control to desired running position.

• Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before
engaging tines.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or in cold tem per a­ tures (below 32°F/0°C), the carburetor fuel mixture may
need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See "TO
AD JUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

NOTE: If engine does not start, see troubleshooting points.

Spark Plug

Throttle
Control

Choke
Con trol

Recoil Starter

Fig. 12

TILLING HINTS (See Fig. 13)

CAUTION: Until you are accustomed to
handling your tiller, start actual field use
with throttle in slow position (mid-way
between “FAST” and “IDLE”).

• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and breaking up
packed soil before planting. Loose, unpacked soil helps
root growth. Best tilling depth is 4" to 6" (10-15 cm).
A tiller will also clear the soil of unwanted vege ta tion.
The de com po si tion of this vegetable mat ter enriches
the soil. Depending 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.

• You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row un­tilled between passes. Then go back between tilled
rows. (See Fig. 14) 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.

• 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, re move vines and
long grass to prevent them from wrapping around the

10

tine shaft and slowing your tilling operation.

OPERATION

tire_1

tire_2

• Do not lean on handle. This takes weight off the wheels
and reduces traction. To get through a really tough
section of sod or hard ground, apply upward pressure
on handle or lower the depth stake.

4

321

5

67

Fig. 13

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" to 3" (2.5-7.5 cm). Lower the outer side shields
to protect small plants from being buried.

• Cultivate up and down the rows at a speed which will
allow tines to uproot weeds and leave the ground in
rough condition, promoting no further growth of weeds
and grass (See Fig. 14).

• Do not lean on handle, this takes weight off the wheels,
reduces traction, and may cause the tiller to skip over
the ground.

• Always lower the drag stake when using the for ward

rotating tine drive.

ADJUST WHEELS FOR CULTIVATING
(See Figs. 15 and 16)

• Place blocks under right hand side of tiller and remove
hairpin clip and clevis pin from right hand wheel.

• Move wheel outward approximately 1" until hole in
inner wheel hub lines up with inner hole in axle.

• Replace clevis pin and hairpin clip on inside of wheel
and remove blocks.

• Repeat preceding steps on left hand side.

NOTE: In extremely rough conditions and while
cultivating, the wheels should be moved outward on the
axle for increased stability.

OUTER VIEW OF TIRE

CLEVIS
PIN

HAIRPIN
CLIP

Fig. 15

INNER VIEW OF TIRE

CLEVIS
PIN

Fig. 14

HAIRPIN
CLIP

Fig. 16

11

MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE

Check Engine Oil Level

MAINTENANCE

BEFORE EACH USE

EVERY 25 HOURS

EVERY 5 HOURS

EVERY SEASON

EVERY 50 HOURS

SERVICE DATES

Change Engine Oil

Oil Pivot Points

Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler

Inspect Air Screen

Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge

Clean Engine Cylinder Fins

Replace Spark Plug

RH Gear Case Grease Fitting (1oz.)

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.

1,2

2

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.

All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual should be checked at least once each
season.

• 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.

 ENGINE

 IDLER

BRACKET

LUBRICATION CHART

 THROTTLE CONTROL

RH GEAR CASE

GREASE FIT TING

 DEPTH

STAKE PIN

 LEVELING

SHIELD
HINGES

 WHEEL

HUB

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).

SAE 30 OR 10W-30 MOTOR OIL
REFER TO MAINTENANCE “ENGINE” SECTION
EP #1 GREASE

12

MAINTENANCE

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

-20 0 30 40

80

100

-30

-20 4

20 30 40

F
C

-10

10

60

10W-30 / 5W-30

SAE 30

oil_visc_chart5_e(drt)

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.

ENGINE

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.

Fig. 17

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
40°F (4°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. 17 and 18)

• Be sure tiller is on level surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Use a funnel to prevent oil spill on tiller, and catch oil
in a suitable con tain er.

• Remove drain plug.

• For easier removal of plug use 7/16 12 Pt. socket with
extension.

• 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.

AIR FILTER (See Fig. 19)

Service air cleaner cartridge every twen ty-five hours,
more often if engine is used in very dusty conditions.

1. Loosen air cleaner screw.

2. Remove air cleaner cover.

3. Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge. Be care ful. Do
not allow dirt or de bris to fall into carburetor.

4. Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur face.

NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace car tridge.

5. Clean and re place cover. Tighten screw securely.

CAUTION: Petroleum sol vents, such as kerosene,

are not to be used to clean car tridge. They may cause
de te ri o ra tion of the cartridge. Do not oil car tridge. Do
not use pres sur ized air to clean or dry car tridge.

Air Clean er
Car tridge

Cover

Air Cleaner
Screw

Fig. 19

OIL
DRAIN
PLUG

OIL FILLER
PLUG

Fig. 18

OIL LEVEL

13

MAINTENANCE

eng

in

e_ar

t_71

COOLING SYSTEM (See Fig. 20)

Your engine is air cooled. For proper engine performance
and long life keep your engine clean.

• Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-bristled­brush.

• Remove blower housing and clean as nec es sary.

• Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.

Cylinder Fins

Muffler

Blower
Housing

Air Screen

Fig. 20

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 is shown in “PRODUCT
SPEC I FI CA TIONS” on page 3 of this manual.

TRANSMISSION

Once a season, lubricate the right hand side gear case
grease fitting with 1 oz. of EP #1 Grease.

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.

14

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

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. 21)

Select handle height best suited for your tilling conditions.
Handle height will be different when tiller digs into soil.

• First loosen handle lock lever.

• Handle can be positioned at different settings between
“HIGH” and “LOW” positions.

• Retighten handle lock lever securely after adjusting.

HANDLE
(HIGH POSITION)

HANDLE LOCK LEVER

HANDLE
(LOW POSITION)

Fig. 21

CLEVIS PIN

tire_3

HAIRPIN CLIP

Fig. 22

TO REMOVE BELT GUARD (See Fig. 23)

NOTE: For ease of removal, remove hairpin clip and

clevis pin from left wheel. Pull wheel out from tiller about
1 inch.

• Remove two (2) screws from side of belt guard.

• Remove hex nut and washer from bottom of belt guard
(located behind wheel).

• Pull belt guard out and away from unit.

• Replace belt guard by reversing above procedure.

TIRE CARE

CAUTION: When mounting tires, un­ less beads are seated, over in fla tion can
cause an explosion.

• Maintain 20 pounds of tire pressure. If tire pressures
are not equal, tiller will pull to one side.

• Keep tires free of gasoline or oil which can damage
rubber.

TO REMOVE WHEEL (See Fig. 22)

• Place blocks under trans mis sion to keep tiller from
tipping.

• Remove hairpin clip and clevis pin from wheel.

• Remove wheel and tire.

• Repair tire and reassemble.

BELT GUARD

SCREW
AND
WASHER

SCREW
AND WASHER

HAIRPIN CLIP
AND CLEVIS PIN

Fig. 23

HEX NUT

AND WASHER

(LOCATED

BEHIND

TIRE)

15

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

TO REPLACE GROUND DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 24)

• Remove belt guard as described in “TO REMOVE BELT
GUARD”.

• Remove old belt by slipping off engine pulley first then
remove from transmission pulley.

• Place new belt in groove of transmission pulley and
into engine pulley. BELT MUST BE IN GROOVE ON
TOP OF IDLER PULLEY. NOTE POSITION OF BELT
TO GUIDES.

• Check belt adjustment as described below.

• Replace belt guard.

• Reposition wheel and replace clevis pin and hairpin
clip.

ENGINE
PULLEY

GROUND DRIVE BELT ADJUSTMENT
(See Fig. 24)

For proper belt tension, the extension spring should have
about 5/8" (16 mm) stretch when tine control is in “EN­ GAGED” position. This tension can be attained as fol lows:

• Loosen cable clip screw securing the drive control
cable.

• Slide cable forward for less tension and rearward for
more tension until about 5/8" (16 mm) stretch is obtained
while the tine control is engaged.

• Tighten cable clip screw securely.

CABLE CLIP
SCREW

DRIVE
CONTROL
CABLE

IDLER
PULLEY

TRANS MIS SION
PULLEY

Fig. 24

16

EXTENSION
SPRING

LESS
TEN SION

5/8"

MORE
TEN SION

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

02

05

1

TINE REPLACEMENT
(See Figs. 25, 26 and 27)

CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear
gloves or other protection when han­ dling tines.

A badly worn tine causes your tiller to work harder and dig
more shallow. Most important, worn tines cannot chop and
shred organic matter as effectively nor bury it as deeply as
good tines. A tine this worn needs to be replaced.

NEW TINE

Fig. 25

WORN TINE

• To maintain the superb tilling performance of this
ma chine the tines should be checked for sharpness,
wear, and bending, particularly the tines which are
next to the transmission. If the gap between the tines
ex ceeds 3-1/2" they should be replaced or straight ened
as necessary.

• New tines should be assembled as shown in Fig. 27.
Sharp ened tine edges will rotate rearward from above.

TRANSMISSION

tine_3

TINE

3-1/2" MAX

TINE

COUNTER
TINE
ROTATION

SHEAR PIN

Fig. 26

HAIRPIN CLIP

HAIRPIN CLIP

SHARP EDGE

SHARP
EDGE

SHARP EDGE

SHARP
EDGE

SHARP
EDGES

SHEAR PIN

tine_13

Fig. 27

17

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

ENGINE

TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE
(See Fig. 28)

The throttle control has been preset at the factory and
ad just ment should not be necessary. If adjustment is nec­essary, proceed as follows:

• With engine not running, move remote throttle control
lever to “FAST” position.

• If throttle lever on engine touches high speed stop, no
further adjustment is necessary. If throttle lever does
not touch high speed stop, continue with adjustment
procedure.

• Loosen cable clamp screw.

• Move throttle lever up until it touches high speed stop,
and hold in this position.

• Tighten cable clamp screw securely.

CLAMP SCREW

CASING
AND WIRE

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.

engine_art_78

THROTTLE CONTROL

Fig. 28

18

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.

CAUTION: 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 damage may occur.

• 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.

19

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 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 tank with fresh, clean
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 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 fuel tank 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 centerdepartment.

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, and 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.

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 drive 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.

Tines will not rotate 1. Shear pin(s) broken. 1. Replace shear pin(s).

Tines skip over 1. Drag Stake not lowered in forward rotating 1. Lower Drag Stake
ground till mode.

2. Improper tilling mode. 2. Forward rotating tine drive should only be used
for soft ground or for soil that has already been
tilled.

Hard to shift into gear 1. Gears not timed. 1. Briefly engage tine control and release or
rock tiller forward and back ward until are able to
shift gears.

Tiller shuts off when 1. Shift lever set in between counter rotating till 1. Shift to either counter rotating till position or forward
tine control position and forward rotating till position. rotating till position.
engaged 2. Tines jammed. 2. Clear tines.

20

SERVICE NOTES

21

SERVICE NOTES

22

SERVICE NOTES

23

02.08.12 DH

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