MTD 21a665b766-proline Parts Manuals

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Operator’s Manual

Rear-tine Tiller Model

663B —Pony 663E —Pony 665B —ProLine

Engine styles vary by model

E663E —Pony® ES

IMPORTANT:READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

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 or state 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 the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available by contacting the service department at Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131, CLEVELAND, OH 44136-0019

PRINTED IN USA FROM NO. 770-10597E

10/20/2006

www.mymowerparts.com

Copy Model Number Here

Copy Serial Number Here

www.troybilt.com

TROY-BILT LLC P. O. BOX

361 1 3 1

CLEVELAND, OH 44136

866-840-6483

330-558-7220

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Content Page

Calling Customer Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Tiller Attachments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Warrany Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover

FINDING MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new Rear-tine Tiller. It will help you assemble, prepare and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. This information is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or an authorized dealer.

• You can locate the model number by looking at the rear surface of the tine shield. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy the model number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below

ENGINE INFORMATION

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual packed separately with your unit for more information.

CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.

Call 1- (330) 558-7220 or 1- (866) 840-6483 to reach a Customer Support representative. Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to process your call .

For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.troybilt.com

www.mymowerparts.com

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section

Safety Alert Symbol

This is a safety alert symbol. It is used in this manual and on the unit to alert you to potential hazards. When you see this symbol, read and

obey the message that follows it. Failure to obey safety messages could result in personal injury or property damage.

TRAINING

1. Carefully read this Owner’s Manual, the separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and any other literature you may receive. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the tiller and its engine. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.

2. Never allow children to operate the tiller. Never allow adults to operate the tiller without proper instruction.

3. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly children and pets.

4. Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people, their property and themselves.

PREPARATION

1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the tiller is to be used and remove all foreign objects.

2. Be sure all controls are released and the Wheel Gear Lever is in ENGAGE before starting the engine.

3. Do not operate the tiller without wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid loose garments or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.

4. Do not operate the tiller when barefoot or wearing sandals, sneakers, or light footwear. Wear protective footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

5. Do not till near underground electric cables, telephone lines, pipes or hoses. If in doubt, contact your telephone or utility company.

6. Warning: Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable and its vapors are explosive. Take the following precautions:

a. Store fuel in containers specifically

designed for this purpose.

b. The gas cap shall never be removed

or fuel added while the engine is running. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before adding fuel.

c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars,

pipes, open flames, and sparks away from the fuel tank and fuel container.

d. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme

care. Never fill fuel tank indoors. Use a funnel or spout to prevent spillage.

e. Replace all fuel tank and container

caps securely.

f. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt

to start the engine, but move the machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.

7. Never make adjustments when engine is running (unless recommended by manufacturer).

Safety

This machine meets voluntary safety standard B71.8 – 1996, which is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Inc., and is published by the American National Standards Institute.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

OPERATION

1. Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.

2. Exercise extreme caution when on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.

3. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine (and remove the ignition key on electric start models), disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it from touching the spark plug, carefully inspect the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the tiller.

4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.

5. If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (and remove the ignition key on electric start models). Disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it from touching the spark plug, and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

6. Stop the engine (and remove the ignition key on electric start models), disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it from touching the spark plug whenever you leave the operating position, before unclogging the tines, or when making any repairs, adjustments or inspections.

www.mymowerparts.com

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

4 Section 1: Safety

7. Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine unattended. Stop the engine. Remove ignition key on electric start models. Disconnect spark plug wire and move it away from the spark plug. Move Wheel Gear Lever to ENGAGE.

8. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, stop the engine, remove the ignition key on electric start models, and make certain all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it from touching the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. On electric start models, always remove the cable from the negative side (–) of the battery.

9. Always keep the tiller tine hood flap down, unless using the hiller/furrower attachment.

10. Never use the tiller unless proper guards, plates, or other safety protective devices are in place.

11. Do not run engine in an enclosed area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas, a deadly poison that is odorless, colorless, and tasteless.

12. Keep children and pets away.

13. Never operate the tiller under engine power if the Wheel Gear Lever is in DISENGAGE (FREEWHEEL). In this position, the wheels will not hold the tiller back and the revolving tines could propel the tiller rapidly, possibly causing loss of control. Always move

the Wheel Gear Lever to ENGAGE before starting the engine or engaging the tines/ wheels with the Forward Clutch Control or the Reverse Clutch Control.

14. Be aware that the tiller may unexpectedly bounce upward or jump forward if the tines should strike extremely hard packed soil, frozen ground, or buried obstacles like large stones, roots, or stumps. If in doubt about the tilling conditions, always use the following operating precautions to assist you in maintaining control of the tiller:

a. Walk behind and to one side of

the tiller, using one hand on the handlebars. Relax your arm, but use a secure hand grip.

b. Use shallower depth regulator set-

tings, working gradually deeper

with each pass. c. Use slower engine speeds. d. Clear the tilling area of all large

stones, roots and other debris. e. Avoid using downward pressure on

handlebars. If need be, use slight

upward pressure to keep the tines

from digging too deeply. f. Before contacting hard packed soil

at the end of a row, reduce engine

speed and lift handlebars to raise

tines out of the soil.

g. In an emergency, stop tines and

wheels by releasing whichever

Clutch Lever is engaged. Do not

attempt to restrain the tiller.

15. Do not overload the tiller’s capacity by attempting to till too deeply at too fast a rate.

16. Never operate the tiller at high transport speeds on hard or slippery surfaces. Look behind and use care when backing up.

17. Do not operate the tiller on a slope that is too steep for safety. When on slopes, slow down and make sure you have good footing. Never permit the tiller to freewheel down slopes.

18. Never allow bystanders near the unit.

19. Only use attachments and accessories that are approved by the tiller manufacturer.

20. Use tiller attachments and accessories when recommended.

21. Never operate the tiller without good visibility or light.

22. Never operate the tiller if you are tired, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.

23. Operators shall not tamper with the engine-governor settings on the machine; the governor controls the maximum safe operating speed to protect the engine and all moving parts from damage caused by overspeed. Authorized service shall be sought if a problem exists.

24. Do not touch engine parts which may be hot from operation. Let parts cool down sufficiently.

25. The battery on electric start model tillers contains sulfuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing. Keep out of the reach of children.

Antidote–

diately with lots of water.

Antidote–

ties of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten eggs or vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.

Antidote–

for 15 minutes. Get prompt medical

attention.

26. Batteries produce explosive gases.

Keep sparks, flame, and smoking materials away. Ventilate when charging batteries or when using a battery in an enclosed space. ALWAYS wear safety goggles when working near batteries.

27. Please remember: You can always stop the tines and wheels by releasing the Forward Clutch Control Lever or the Reverse Clutch Control knob (whichever control you have engaged), or by moving the Engine Throttle Control Lever (located on engine) to STOP on recoil start models or by turning the ignition key to OFF on electric start models.

28. To load or unload the tiller, see the instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.

29. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the machine towards you.

30. Start the engine carefully according to instructions and with feet well away from the tines.

31. Never pick up or carry a machine while the engine is running.

External Contact: Flush imme-

Internal: Drink large quanti-

Eye Contact: Flush with water

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. Keep the tiller, attachments and accessories in safe working condition.

2. Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

3. Never store the tiller with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where ignition sources are present such as hot water and space heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc. Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

www.mymowerparts.com

STOP

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section 1: Safety 5

4. To reduce the chances of a fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease.

5. Store gasoline in a cool, well-ventilated area, safely away from any sparkor flame-producing equipment. Store gasoline in an approved container, safely away from the reach of children.

6. Refer to the Maintenance section of this Manual and in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual for instructions if the tiller is to be stored for an extended period.

7. Never perform maintenance while the engine is running or the spark plug wire is connected, except when specifically instructed to do so.

8. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.

Operating Symbols

Various symbols (shown here, with word descriptions) may be used on the tiller and engine.

DECALS

For your safety and the safety of others, various safety message decals are on your unit (see Figure below). Keep the decals clean and legible at all times. Contact your local service dealer or the factory for

Control Descriptions

Tine Warning (on right

side of hood flap)

Starting Stabilization (on top of engine or fuel tank)

replacements if any decals are damaged or missing.

Refer to the Parts List pages for decal locations and part numbers.

Operating Instructions and

Warning Messages

Hot Surfaces/Moving Belts

(on top of belt cover)

FAST

STOP

CHOKE

OFF

LEVER DIRECTION

ENGAGED

SLOW

START

ROTATING

TINES

TILLER DIRECTION

REVERSE

DISENGAGED

STOP

CHOKE

Figure 1: Location of Safety and Operating Decals

WARNING

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:

• READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL.

• KNOW LOCATIONS AND FUNCTIONS OF ALL CONTROLS.

• KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES AND SHIELDS IN PLACE AND WORKING.

• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR UNINSTRUCTED ADULTS TO OPERATE TILLER.

• SHUT OFF ENGINE AND DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE MANUALLY UNCLOG GING TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY FROM MACHINE.

• KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.

• USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN REVERSING OR PULLING THE MACHINE TOWARDS YOU.

www.mymowerparts.com

WARNING

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section

To prevent personal injury or property damage, do not start the engine until all assembly steps are complete and you have read and understand the safety and operating instructions in this Manual.

INTRODUCTION

Carefully follow these assembly steps to correctly prepare your tiller for use. It is recommended that you read this Section in its entirety before beginning assembly.

INSPECT UNIT

Inspect the unit and carton for damage immediately after delivery. Contact the carrier (trucking company) if you find or suspect damage. Inform them of the damage and request instructions for filing a claim. To protect your rights, put your claim in writing and mail a copy to the carrier within 15 days after the unit has been delivered. Contact us at the factory if you need assistance in this matter.

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Remove any card board inserts and

packaging material from the carton. Remove any staples from the bottom of the carton and remove the carton.

2. Cut the large, plastic tie strap that secures the transmission tube to the shipping pallet. Leave the handlebars on top of the tiller to avoid damaging any cables.

3. A bag with loose hardware is inside the literature envelope. Check the contents against the following list and Figure 2-1.

NOTE: For electric start units, a second hardware bag is located near the battery.

4. The tiller is heavy. You should not attempt to remove it from the shipping platform until instructed to do so in these “Assembly” steps.

Assembly

HARDWARE BAG PARTS LIST

Fig. Ref. Qty. Description

1 2 3/8-16 x 1" Hex Hd. Screw 2 1 Keyed Washer 3 1 Wheel Gear Lever Knob

4 1 Height Adjustment Flange Screw (See Figure 2-1A)

5 2 3/8" Flat Washer 6 2 #10 Lockwasher 7 2 3/8"-16 Nylock Lock Nut 8 2 #10-32 x 1/2" Round Hd.

Screw 9 2 #10-32 Nut 10 1 Cotter Pin (not used) 11 4 Plastic Tie Strap (2 not used)

Tools/Materials Needed for Assembly

(1) 3/8" open-end wrench* (1) 7/16" open-end wrench* (electric

start unit only) (2) 9/16" open-end wrench* (1) 7/8" open-end wrench or 8" long

adjustable wrench (1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties) (1) Ruler (1) Small board (to tap plastic knob on

lever) (1) Tire pressure gauge (1) Clean oil funnel (1) Clean, high-quality motor oil. Refer

to the separate Engine Owner’s Manual for motor oil specifications and quantity required.

* Adjustable wrenches may be used.

IMPORTANT: Motor oil must be added to the engine crankcase before the engine is started. Follow the instructions in this “Assembly” Section and in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the tiller are as viewed from the operator’s position behind the handlebars.

STEP 2: ATTACH HANDLEBARS

1. On electric start units, remove one

screw and lockwasher from the curved

Figure 2-1: Loose hardware (shown in reduced size).

Figure 2-1A Handlebar height adjustment uses the flange head screw.

Flange

Figure 2-2: On electric start units, move height adjustment bracket aside.

height adjustment bracket (A, Figure 2-2), loosen the second screw, and swing the bracket to one side.

2. Cut the large, plastic cable ties that secure the handlebar ends to the handlebar mounting tabs on the transmission top cover.

3. Gently lift handlebar (do not overstretch attached cable) and place handlebar cross-brace (B, Figure 2-3) in front of curved height adjustment bracket (C).

Figure 2-3: Forward clutch control cable not shown for clarity.

www.mymowerparts.com

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section 2: Assembly 7

4. With the forward clutch cable (N, Figure 2-4) on the inside of handlebar, position the handlebar ends on the

outside of the two mounting tabs (M, Figure 2-3) on the transmission top cover.

NOTE: The curved handlebar height adjustment bracket appears as shown in C, Figure 2-3 for non-electric start units. For electric start units, the bracket is loosened and moved to one side.

5. Loosely attach the handlebars to the mounting tabs with two 3/8-16 x 1" screws (heads of screws go to inside of tabs), 3/8" flat washers and 3/8"-16 lock nuts (O, Figure 2-4).

6. On electric start units, reattach the

Figure 2-4: Attach handlebars.

height adjustment bracket (A, Figure 2-2). Tighten both screws securely. Make sure the handlebar cross-brace (B, Figure 2-3) is under the bracket.

7. Move the handlebars up or down to align the threaded hole in the crossbrace with one of the four slots in the curved height adjustment bracket. Place the keyed washer (E, Figure 2-3) on the flange head height adjustment screw (F) with the raised keys (edges) of the washer facing down.

8. Thread the height adjustment screw (F, Figure 2-3) into the hole in the handlebar cross-brace, making sure that the raised keys on the washer fit into the slot on the height adjustment bracket. Tighten the height adjustment screw securely. Next, securely tighten the two screws and nuts in the ends of the handlebar (M, Figure 2-3).

9. To remove the tiller from its shipping platform, first carefully unwrap the wheel gear cable (with attached lever - see Figure 2-5) from around the chassis. Move the Wheel Gear Lever (G) to the DISENGAGE position--this allows the wheels to rotate freely. Use the handlebars to roll the tiller off the platform.

Figure 2-5: Carefully unwrap Wheel Gear Lever and move lever to DISENGAGE.

NOTE: The Wheel Gear Lever will be installed later in this procedure.

IMPORTANT:

tion only when the engine is not running. Before starting the engine, the Wheel Gear Lever must be placed in the ENGAGE position (see Section 3 for details).

Use the DISENGAGE posi-

STEP 3: ATTACH REVERSE CLUTCH CONTROL CABLE

1. Carefully unwrap the reverse clutch

control cable (H, Figure 2-6) from its shipping position and route it up along the inside edge of the left side handlebar. A knob and large hex nut (I) is installed on the cable.

2. Insert the cable into the slot in the

Left Side

Handlebar

Reverse Clutch

Control Knob

Slot in Control Panel

Figure 2-6: Attach reverse clutch control assembly to slotted hole in handlebar panel.

control panel and fit the threaded assembly into the hole in the slot (see Figure 2-6). Be sure that the flat side of the threaded assembly is aligned with the flat side of the hole. Slide the hex nut (I) up the cable and tighten it securely.

3. Test the function of the reverse clutch control cable by pulling the knob out and releasing it. The knob should return to its neutral position against the tapered bushing. If it doesn’t, contact your local dealer or the factory for technical assistance.

STEP 4: ATTACH FORWARD CLUTCH CONTROL CABLE

1. Remove any fasteners (rubber bands,

tape, etc.) that may secure the Forward Clutch Control levers (J, Figure 2-7) to the handlebar.

Figure 2-7: Forward Clutch Control levers (J). Forward clutch control linkage (K).

2. The forward clutch control cable (with attached spring) is hanging loosely near the right-side wheel. Being careful not to kink or stretch the cable, insert the z-connector (L, Figure 2-8 – end of the spring) into the hole at the end of the forward clutch control linkage (K, Figure 2-7).

Figure 2-8

3. Attach the cable adjuster (A, Figure 2-9) to the bracket on the right-side handlebar. Use two 1/2" wrenches to loosen the two jam nuts (B) just enough to slide the cable adjuster onto the bracket. Then hand tighten the jam nuts.

Figure 2-9

www.mymowerparts.com

CAUTION

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

8 Section 2: Assembly

Incorrect cable adjustment could cause the wheels and tines to rotate unexpectedly. Follow adjustment procedures carefully. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or property damage.

4. Check for correct spring/cable tension

as instructed in Section 5, Checking and Adjusting Forward Clutch Belt Tension.

5. When tension is correct, tighten the two jam nuts (B) securely.

STEP 5: CHECK TRANSMISSION GEAR OIL LEVEL

The transmission was filled with gear oil at the factory. However, be sure to check the oil level at this time to make certain it is correct.

IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tiller if the gear oil level is low. Doing so will result in severe damage to the transmission components.

1. With the tiller on level ground, pull the Depth Regulator Lever (R, Figure 2-13) back and then slide it to the second notch from the top. NOTE: If the lever does not move, lift the tine hood flap and look for a plastic tie securing the lever in place. Cut and remove the tie.

2. Remove the oil level check plug (M, Figure 2-10) on the left-side of the transmission. (Due to dried paint on the plug threads, it may require some force to remove the plug the first time.) The gear oil level is correct if oil starts to flow out of the hole as the plug is removed. If so, securely reinstall the plug.

Figure 2-10: Gear oil level check plug.

3. If oil does not flow from the check hole, add oil as follows:

NOTE: Do not use automatic transmission fluid or motor oil in the transmission.

(a) Clean area around the fill hole (N, Figure 2-11) and unscrew gear oil fill plug.

Figure 2-11: Adding gear oil.

(b) If adding only a few ounces of gear oil, use API rated GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil having a viscosity of SAE 140, SAE 85W-140 or SAE 80W-90. If refilling an empty transmission, use only GL-4 gear oil having a viscosity of SAE 85W-140 or SAE 140.

(d) Reinstall and tighten securely the gear oil fill plug (M, Figure 2-10).

STEP 6: ATTACH WHEEL GEAR LEVER

1. Insert the Wheel Gear Lever (P, Figure

2-12) up through the slot in the control panel that is labeled “WHEEL GEAR.”

2. Insert two #10-32 x 1/2" round head screws down through the “+” marks on the control panel decal and securely attach the wheel gear mounting bracket using two #10 lockwashers and #10-32 nuts.

3. Use a small board to tap the Wheel Gear Lever knob securely onto the lever.

4. Secure the wheel gear cable and the reverse clutch control cable to the leftside handlebar with two plastic ties (S, Figure 2-13) located about two feet apart. Snip off any excess tie length with scissors.

STEP 7 ATTACHING THE BATTERY CABLES (MODEL E663E)

The positive battery terminal is marked Pos. (+). The negative battery terminal is

marked Neg. (–).

1. Remove the hex bolt and hex nut from the positive cable (heavy red wire).

2. Remove the plastic cover from the positive battery terminal and attach the positive cable to the positive battery terminal (+) with the bolt and hex nut. Make certain that the rubber boot covers the positive terminal to help protect it from

Figure 2-12: Attach Wheel Gear Lever.

Figure 2-13: Attach wheel gear cable and reverse clutch cable with cable ties (S).

corrosion.

3. Remove the hex bolt and hex nut from the negative cable (heavy black wire).

4. Remove the black plastic cover from the negative battery terminal and attach the negative cable to the negative battery terminal (–) with the bolt and hex nut.

IMPORTANT:

If the battery is put into service after the

• date shown on top of battery, charge the battery as instructed in the Maintenence section of this manual prior to operating the tiller.

STEP 8: CHECK AIR PRESSURE IN TIRES

Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in both tires. Deflate or inflate both tires equally to between 15 PSI and 20 PSI). Be sure that both tires are inflated equally or the unit will pull to one side.

STEP 9: CHECK HARDWARE FOR TIGHTNESS

Inspect the hardware on the unit and tighten any loose screws, bolts and nuts.

www.mymowerparts.com

WARNING

DANGER

WARNING

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section

Features and Controls

Before operating your machine, carefully read and understand all safety, controls and operating instructions in this Manual, the separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and on the decals on the machine.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury.

INTRODUCTION

This Section describes the location and function of the controls on your tiller. Refer to the following section “Operation” for detailed operating instructions.

Practice using these controls, with the engine shut off, until you understand the operation of the controls and feel confident with them.

IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate engine manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s Manual for information about the controls on the engine.

WHEEL GEAR LEVER

This lever (A, Figure 3-1) has two positions: ENGAGE and DISENGAGE.

In the ENGAGE position, the wheels will start turning when either the Forward Clutch Control or the Reverse Clutch Control is engaged (the tines will also start turning when either clutch is engaged).

Figure 3-1: Controls located on handlebar.

The DISENGAGE position places the wheels in the freewheeling mode to allow the unit to be moved without the engine running. Use the DISENGAGE position only when the engine is not running. See “DANGER” statement that follows.

To shift to ENGAGE, gently (do not force) move the lever forward while also rolling the tiller a few inches forward or backward. Moving the tiller helps to align the shift mechanism with the transmission wheel drive gears.

To shift to DISENGAGE (freewheel), move the lever rearward, without rolling the tiller. The wheels will roll freely when the lever is properly set in the DISENGAGE position.

Never place the Wheel Gear Lever in DIS E N G A GE (Fr e e w h eel) wh e n the engine is running.

Having t h e Whee l Gear L e v e r in DISENGAGE and then engaging the tines/ wheels with either the Forward Clutch Control or the Reverse Clutch Control could allow the tines to propel the tiller rapidly forward or backward.

Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or property damage.

FORWARD CLUTCH CONTROL

The two interconnected levers (B, Figure 3-1) control the engagement of forward drive to the wheels and tines.

To Operate the Forward Clutch Control:

1. Before engaging the Forward Clutch

Control, put the Wheel Gear Lever in the ENGAGE position (see “WARNING” below).

2. Pull up and hold one or both of the levers against the handlebar grips to engage the wheels and tines.

3. Release BOTH levers to disengage (stop) the wheels and tines. All forward motion will stop (the engine will continue to run).

Never engage the wheels and tines with the Forward Clutch Control or the Reverse Clutch Control unless the Wheel Gear Lever is in ENGAGE.

Engaging the Forward Clutch Control or the Reverse Clutch Control when the wheels are not engaged could allow the tines to rapidly propel the tiller forward or backward.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury or property damage.

www.mymowerparts.com

WARNING

STOP

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

10 Section 3: Features and Controls

REVERSE CLUTCH CONTROL

The Reverse Clutch Control (C, Figure 3-1) controls the engagement of reverse drive to the wheels and tines. The revers-

ing feature is used for maneuvering the tiller only – never engage the tines in the ground while going in the reverse direction.

• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the machine towards you. Look behind to avoid obstacles.

• Never attempt to till in reverse.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury or property damage.

To Operate the Reverse Clutch Control:

1. Put the Wheel Gear Lever in the

ENGAGE position (see the “WARNING” statement on previous page).

2. Stop all tiller motion by releasing the

Forward Clutch Control levers.

3. Lift up the handlebars until the tines

clear the ground, look behind you to avoid any obstacles, and then pull the Reverse Clutch Control knob out. The tines and wheels will rotate in a reverse direction.

4. Release the Reverse Clutch Control

knob to disengage (stop) the wheels and tines. All reverse motion will stop (the engine will continue to run).

Figure 3-2: Depth Regulator Lever.

The highest notch (lever all the way down) raises the tines approximately 1-1/2 inches off the ground. This “travel” position allows the tiller to be moved without the tines digging into the ground.

Moving the lever up increases the tilling depth. The lowest notch allows a tilling depth of approximately six to eight inches, depending on soil conditions.

For best results, always begin tilling at a very shallow depth setting and gradually increase the tilling depth. Complete

details on using the Depth Regulator are found in the “Operation” Section of this manual.

HANDLEBAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The handlebar height is adjustable to four different settings. Set the handlebar height to a comfortable setting, but keep in mind that the handlebars will be lower when the tines are engaged in the soil.

To Adjust the Handlebar Height:

keyed washer into the slot. Tighten the height adjustment screw securely.

5. Retighten the two screws at the ends of the handlebar.

ENGINE CONTROLS

Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s Manual (included in the tiller literature package) to identify the controls on your engine. The following two controls are used when stopping or starting the engine.

IMPORTANT:

the recoil start engine is located on the engine.

ENGINE THROTTLE CONTROL LEVER

The Engine Throttle Control Lever (located on engine--see Figure 4-1) is used to regulate the engine speed. On the recoil start model only, it is also used to stop the engine (on the electric start model, the electric start keyswitch is used to stop the engine). The throttle settings are shown below.

IMPORTANT:

the Engine” in the “Operation” Section for detailed engine starting and stopping instructions.

The control for stopping

See “Starting and Stopping

FAST - Use for most tilling and cultivating projects.

- Use when idling engine

SLOW

or when slower tilling and cultivating speeds are needed.

• Do not attempt to till too deeply too quickly. Gradually work down to deeper tilling depths.

• Place the Depth Regulator Lever in the “travel” position before starting the engine. This position prevents the tines from touching the ground until you are ready to begin tilling.

Failure to follow this warning could result in personal injury or property damage.

DEPTH REGULATOR

The Depth Regulator lever (D, Figure 3-2) controls the tilling depth of the tines. Pull the lever straight back and slide it up or down to engage the notched height settings.

www.mymowerparts.com

Figure 3-3: Handlebar height adjustment.

1. Stop the engine, wait for all parts to stop moving and then disconnect the spark plug wire. Remove the ignition key on electric start models.

2. Loosen the two screws at the lower ends of the handlebar.

3. Loosen the height adjustment screw (E, Figure 3-3) and pull the keyed washer (F) free of the slots in the curved height adjustment bracket.

4. Move the handlebars to the new slot setting and insert the raised keys on the

- Stops the engine (on

STOP

recoil start models only).

ELECTRIC START KEYSWITCH (MODEL E663E)

The ignition keyswitch on the electric start model is used to start and stop the engine. The keyswitch settings are described below.

IMPORTANT:

the Engine” in the “Operation” Section for detailed instructions.

OFF - Stops engine.

RUN - After starting, key returns to run

position.

START - Starts engine. Release key when engine starts (avoid cranking engine for longer than 15 seconds for each attempt).

See “Starting and Stopping

WARNING

DANGER

CAUTION

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

Section

Before operating your machine, carefully read and understand all safety (Section 1), controls (Section 3) and operating instructions (Section 4) in this Manual, in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and on the decals on the machine.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury.

INTRODUCTION

Read this Section of the manual thoroughly before you start the engine. Then, take the time to familiarize yourself with the basic operation of the tiller before using it in the garden.

Find an open, level area and practice using the tiller controls without the tines engaging the soil (put tines in “travel” setting). Only after you’ve become completely familiar with the tiller should you begin using it in the garden.

BREAK-IN OPERATION

Perform the following maintenance after the first two hours of new operation (see “Maintenance” in this manual and the Engine Owner’s Manual).

1. Change engine oil.

2. Check for loose or missing hardware

on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.

3. Check transmission gear oil level.

4. Check tension on forward clutch belt.

Engine Throttle Control Lever

Operation

Forward Clutch Control Lever

Handlebar Height

Adjustment Screw

Figure 4-1: Location of main tiller controls.

STARTING AND STOPPING THE ENGINE

To help prevent serious personal injury or damage to equipment:

• Before starting engine, put Wheel Gear Lever in ENGAGE position.

• Before starting engine, put Forward Clutch Control levers and Reverse Clutch Control in neutral (disengaged) positions by releasing controls.

• Ne v e r run engine in d o o rs or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

• Avoi d e ngine muff ler and nearb y areas. Temperatures in these areas may exceed 150oF.

Reverse Clutch Control

1. Read Sections 1 and 3 in this Manual.

Read the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

2. Check unit for loose or missing hardware. Service as required.

3. Check engine oil level. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

4. Check that all safety guards and covers are in place.

5. Check air cleaner and engine cooling system. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

6. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.

GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE. Follow gasoline safety rules in this manual (see Section 1) and in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

Failure to follow gasoline safety instructions can result in serious personal injury and property damage.

Wheel Gear Lever

Forward Clutch Control Lever

Depth Regulator Lever

PRE-START CHECKLIST:

Make the following checks and perform the following services before starting the engine.

www.mymowerparts.com

7. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline according to the directions in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow all instructions and safety rules carefully.

WARNING

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983

12 Section 4: Operation

STARTING THE ENGINE

The following steps describe how to start and stop the engine. Do not attempt to

engage the tines or wheels until you have read all of the operating instructions in this Section. Also review the safety rules in Section 1: “Safety” and the tiller and engine controls information in Section 3: “Features and Controls.”

1. Complete the “Pre-Start Checklist” on

the previous page.

2. Put the Wheel Gear Lever (Figure 4-1) in the ENGAGE position.

3. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the “travel” position (lever all the way down) so that the tines are clear of the ground.

4. Release all controls on the tiller.

5. Put the Engine Throttle Control Lever

(Figure 4-1) in the “FAST” setting.

6. On engines equipped with a fuel valve, turn valve to open position as instructed in the separate engine manual.

7. Choke or prime engine as instructed in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

8. For recoil (non-electric) starting models:

(a) Place one hand on fuel tank to sta-

bilize unit when you pull the starter handle.

(b) Use the recoil starter rope to start

the engine as instructed in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual. When the engine starts, gradually move the choke lever (on engines so equipped) to the “NO CHOKE”, “CHOKE OFF” or “RUN” position.

9. For electric starting models (E663E):

(a) Turn the engine ignition key to

the Engine Throttle Control

Lever in the “FAST” setting.

the “START” setting and allow the starter motor to crank the engine for several seconds. Avoid cranking the engine longer than 15 seconds at a time as doing so could damage the starter motor. NOTE: Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed starting instructions.

(b) When the engine starts, release the

key and it will return to the “RUN” setting.

(on engines so equipped) to “NO CHOKE”, “CHOKE OFF” or “RUN” position.

(d) Leave the Engine Throttle Control

Lever in the “FAST” setting.

To Start the Electric Start Engine With the Recoil Starter Rope

If necessary, the electric start engine can be started with the recoil starter rope by following the steps below:

1. If the battery is not “dead” or damaged, leave it connected to the tiller so it will be recharged during engine operation. Make sure the battery cells are filled to the UPPER LEVEL line with electrolyte.

2. If the battery is “dead” or damaged, remove it (refer to “Battery Removal and Installation” in Section 5) and have it tested. Before starting engine, cover the terminal on the loose end of the positive (+) cable with the insulated boot and secure it in place with electrical tape to prevent electrical sparks.

3. Put the ignition key in the “RUN” position and then follow Steps 1-8 of “Starting the Engine.”

STOPPING THE ENGINE

1. To stop the wheels and tines, release

the Forward Clutch Control levers or the Reverse Clutch Control knob (whichever control is engaged).

2. To stop the engine on the recoil start model, move the Engine Throttle Control Lever to the “STOP” position.

3. To stop the engine on an electric start model, move the ignition key to “OFF”.

IMPORTANT:

start engine, remove the ignition key from the switch to reduce the possibility of unauthorized starting of the engine.

After stopping an electric

OPERATING THE TILLER

The following pages provide guidelines to using your tiller effectively and safely in various gardening applications. Be sure to read “Tilling Tips & Techniques” in this Section before you actually put the tines into the soil.

This is a traditional “standard rotating tine” tiller with forward rotating tines. It operates completely differently from CRT (Counter Rotating Tines) tillers or from low-cost front tine tillers.

1. Follow the “Pre-Start Checklist” on the previous page. Be sure that the Wheel Gear Lever is in the ENGAGE position.

2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the “travel” position (lever all the way down) so that the tines are clear of the ground. Use this position when practicing with your tiller or when moving to or from the garden. When you are ready to begin tilling, you must move the Depth Regulator Lever to the desired depth setting (see “Tilling Tips & Techniques”).

3. Start the engine and allow it to warm up. When warm, put Engine Throttle Control Lever in “FAST” speed setting.

Keep away from rotating tines.

Rotating tines will cause injury.

4. For forward motion of the wheels and

tines: (a) Pull one or both of the Forward

Clutch Control Levers up and hold them against the handlebars. To stop forward motion of the wheels and tines, release the levers.

www.mymowerparts.com

+ 28 hidden pages

MTD 21a665b766-proline Parts Manuals

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual