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MTD
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340 THRU 390
User Manual
24 pgs6.43 Mb0
Owner’s Manual
22 pgs1.41 Mb0
Table of contents
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MTD 340 Thru 390 User Manual

Operator’s Manual
Front Tine Tillers
Model Series 340 Thru 390
Model Series 390 Shown
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-
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
770-10135E.fm
(10/05)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices 3 Assembling Your Tiller 5 Know Your Tiller 7 Operating Your Tiller 8
Content Page
Maintaining Your Tiller 11 Troubleshooting 14 Illustrated Parts List 16 Warranty 24
Making Adjustments 11
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new 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. A sample model plate is also given below. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and looking down at the right side of the frame. This information will be necessary to use the manufacturer’s web site and/or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized service dealer.
Copy the model number here:
www.mtdproducts.com
MTD LLC P. O. BOX CLEVELAND,OH 330-220-4683 800-800-7310
361131
44136
Copy the serial number here:
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Please do NOT return the unit to the retailer from where it was purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
Visit mtdproducts.com for many useful suggestions. Click on Customer Support button and you will get the four options reproduced here. Click on the appropriate button and help is immediately available.
The answer you are looking for could be just a mouse click away!
If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-800-7310.
The answer you are looking for could be just a mouse click away!
Engine
Manual
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.
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SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol— heed its warning.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER:
This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Tra in in g
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.
5. Keep bystanders, helpers, pets and children at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
7. Use only an approved gasoline container.
8. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.
9. Never fuel machine indoors.
10. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot or running.
11. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
12. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel expansion.
13. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
14. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine.
15. Never store the machine or fuel container inside near an open flame, spark or pilot light (e.g. furnace, water or space heater, clothes dryer etc.).
16. Allow machine to cool 5 minutes before storing.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, and other foreign objects which could be tripped over and cause personal injury.
2. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close fitting slacks and shirt. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry can be caught in movable parts. Never operate this machine in bare feet or sandals.
3. Disengage clutch levers and shift (if provided) into neutral (“N”) before starting the engine.
4. Never leave this machine unattended with the engine running.
5. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is running, except where specifically recommended in the operator’s manual.
6. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
2. Do not operate machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
3. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the handles.
4. Keep bystanders, helpers, pets, and children at least 75 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.
5. 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 handle bars and do not restrain the machine.
6. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.
7. Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on hard or slippery surfaces.
8. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
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9. Look down and behind and use care when in reverse or pulling machine towards you.
10. Start the engine according to the instructions found in this manual and keep feet well away from the tines at all times.
11. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating.
12. Disengage all clutch levers and stop engine before you leave the operating position (behind the handles). Wait until the tines come to a complete stop before unclogging the tines, making any adjustments, or inspections.
13. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
14. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.
15. Use caution when tilling near fences, buildings and underground utilities. Rotating tines can cause property damage or personal injury.
16. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to till soil to deep at to fast of a rate.
17. If the machine should start making an unusual noise or vibration, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine. Inspect thoroughly for damage. Repair any damage before starting and operating.
18. Keep all shields, guards and safety devices in place and operating properly.
19. Never pick up or carry machine while the engine is running.
20. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer. Failure to do so, can result in personal injury.
21. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer or telephone 1-800-800-7310 for assistance and the name of your nearest servicing dealer.
4. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
5. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
6. Follow this manual for safe loading, unloading, transporting, and storage of this machine.
7. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer etc.
8. Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper instructions on off-season storage.
9. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
10. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.
Your Responsibility
1. Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
2. The safety label on the tiller is reproduced below for your review. To ensure safe operation of the tiller, follow the instructions on all labels closely.
Maintenance & Storage
1. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
2. Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at frequent intervals to keep the machine in safe working condition. Also, visually inspect machine for any damage.
3. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, stop the engine and make certain the tines and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
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SECTION 2: ASSEMBLING YOUR TILLER
NOTE: This operator’s guide covers three different model tillers. Model series 340 thru 345 have forward tine drive only. Model series 390 has both forward and reverse tine drive. Follow only the instructions which pertain to your model tiller. See the model plate on your tiller for the correct model number.

NOTE: References to right or left side of the tiller are determined from behind the unit in the operating position.

Removing Unit From Carton
• Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open carton.
• Remove all loose parts included with unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, etc.)
• Cut corners and lay carton down flat.
• Remove packing material.
• Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
• Extend control cable(s) to the rear of the tiller and
lay them on the floor. Be careful not to bend or kink control cable(s).
IMPORTANT:
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual before operating your machine.
This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
Before Assembly
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
Attaching Tailpiece And Depth Stake

NOTE: If your tiller’s tailpiece and depth stake has been already assembled before shipping, proceed to the next section. If it is unassembled, follow the steps below.

Remove the two self-tapping screws on the frame. Slide the tailpiece into the frame with the lower hole in the tailpiece toward the front. Secure with screws just removed. See Figure 1.
Attaching Handle Assembly
• Remove the hex bolt and cupped washer from the
• Insert the handle assembly between the two frame
• Loosen the hand knob which secures the handle
• Remove the hand knob from the handle brace.
• Insert the carriage bolt through the welded bracket
• Remove the hex lock nut from on top of the engine,
• Select one of the three handle height positions
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Tail piece
Depth Stake
Self-Tapping Screws

Figure 1

top right side of the frame halves. Hold the cable guide bracket on the left side of the frame as it will fall when the bolt is removed. See Figure 2.
Hand
Knob
Handle
Hex Bolt & Cupped Washer
Frame Half

Figure 2

halves. Insert the hex bolt just removed through the frame halves, handle assembly, and into the cable guide bracket (notch in cable guide bracket goes over the flange on the frame). Tighten securely.
brace to the handle assembly. (Standard Briggs &
Stratton & Tecumseh Engines).
(Honda and Briggs & Stratton Intek Engines).
on the handle, bell washer, handle brace, and into the hand knob. Tighten securely. See Figure 3.
(Honda and Briggs & Stratton Intek Engines).
just to the left of the spark plug. Attach the curved end of the handle brace to the top of the engine, using hex lock nut just removed. Tighten securely. See Figure 3. (Standard Briggs & Stratton &
Tecumseh Engines).
(three notches in welded bracket), and tighten the hand knob to secure the handle in desired position. Make certain carriage bolt is seated securely into one of the three positions provided.
Handle
Carriage Bolt
Welded Bracket
Honda and Briggs & Stratton Intek Engines
Bell
Washer
Hand Knob
Handle Brace
• Loosen the hex nut on the threaded rod near the end of the cable, and move it up the rod as far as it will go.
• Unthread the rod from the rest of the cable. Hook the “Z” end of the rod into the bracket underneath the handle assembly from the right hand side. See Figure 4.
• Thread the rod back into the cable until the cable is straight. Do not tighten it enough to put any tension on the spring.
• Thread the hex nut down against the end of cable. Use a pair of pliers and a wrench to lock the nut against the rod.
Hex Lock Nut
Handle Brace
Briggs & Stratton Standard Engine
Spark Plug
Spark Plug
Handle Brace
NOTE: Do not overtighten control cable. Too much
tension may cause it to break when engaged.
Threaded Rod
“Z” End
Hooked In
Bracket
Hex Nut
Cable
Model Series 340 thru 345

Figure 4

Reverse Cable
(Model Series 390 Only)
The reverse clutch cable is the cable which is attached closer to the front of the tiller. Attach the end of the reverse cable to the reverse tine drive clutch lever, above the handle assembly, in the same manner as you attached the forward cable. See Figure 5.
Hex Lock Nut
Tecumseh Engine

Figure 3

Attaching Clutch Control Cable(s)

NOTE: If your tiller’s clutch control cable(s) have been already assembled before shipping, proceed to the next section. If unassembled, follow the steps below.

Forward Cable
Attach the end of the forward cable to the bracket underneath the handle assembly as follows. (On model series 390, the forward clutch cable is the cable which is attached closer to the rear of the tiller).
Z End Hooked in Bracket
Threaded Rod
Hex Nut
Hex Nut
Reverse Tine Engagement Lever
Forward Tine Engagement Handle
Z End Hooked in Bracket
Threaded Rod

Figure 5

Final Clutch Adjustment
To check the clutch cable adjustment, proceed as follows:
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• Disconnect the spark plug wire and move it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Engage and release the tine engagement handle, then the reverse tine engagement lever (model series 390 only). If an excessive noise is heard when releasing either the tine drive clutch handle or lever, the cable may be too loose. Adjust either the forward or reverse clutch cable by loosening the hex nut, threading the rod into the cable one or two turns, then retightening the nut.
• With tine engagement handle in neutral (released) as shown in Figure 6, pull the starter rope several times. The tines should not turn. If they turn forward, loosen the hex nut on the forward cable (underneath the handle assembly). If they turn toward the rear (model series 390 only), loosen the hex nut on the reverse cable (above the handle
SECTION 3: KNOW YOUR TILLER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.
assembly). Unthread the rod from the cable 2 or 3 turns. Retighten the hex nut, and check again for correct adjustment. See Figure 6.
Forward Tine Engagement Lever
Reverse Tine Engagement Lever
Model Series 340 thru 345
Model Series 390

Figure 6

Run
Choke
Stop
Fast
Throttle Control
The throttle control lever is located on the engine. It controls the engine speed and stops the engine. See Figure 7.
Choke Lever
(Model Series 340/390)
The choke lever is located above the throttle control. It is used to enrich the fuel mixture when starting a cold engine. See Figure 7.
Primer Button (Model 345)
The primer button is located behind the air cleaner. It is used to enrich the fuel mixture in the carburetor when starting a cold engine. See Figure 7.
Forward Tine Engagement Handle
The forward tine engagement handle is located beneath the tiller handle. Squeezing the handle up against the tiller handle engages the tines. Release the handle to stop the tines. See Figure 8.
Reverse Tine Drive Clutch Lever
(Model Series 390 Only)
The reverse tine drive clutch lever is located on top of the handle panel. Pull the lever to the rear to move the tines in reverse. Release the lever to stop the reverse tine drive. See Figure 8.
Briggs and Stratton Intek
Choke
Throttle Control
Briggs and Stratton Standard
Primer
Fast
Stop
Tecumseh
Air
Cleaner
Throttle
Control
NOTE: Never engage both the forward and reverse tine
drives at the same time. Engaging both forward and reverse tine drives at the same time could damage the belt drives and cause the engine to stall.
Choke
Throttle
Fast
Fast
Stop
Stop
Throttle
Control
Control
Honda

Figure 7

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Depth Stake
The depth stake controls the tilling depth. Refer to OPERATING YOUR TILLER in Section 4.
Hand Knob
Tines
Model Series 390 Shown
Tines And End Caps
The tilling tines and end caps (are used to cultivate, furrow, and prepare your garden for seeding. The end caps (Model Series 390 only) are used to avoid tilled soil from overflowing onto unwanted areas.
Reverse Tine Engagement
Handle
Forward Tine Engagement
Handle
Depth Stake
End Cap

Figure 8

SECTION 4: OPERATING YOUR TILLER
Gas and Oil Fill up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your tiller.
Read instructions carefully.
Starting Engine
WARNING: Be sure no one is standing in front of the tiller while the engine is running or being started.
Models 340, 342, & 395
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
• Make certain all controls are in the neutral position (released). See Figure 6.
• Place the throttle control lever in FAST position. See Figure 7.
• Move/pull out choke lever to CHOKE position. (A warm engine requires little or no choke.)
• Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.
• Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Let rope rewind slowly. Do not let starter handle snap back against starter.
• Repeat preceding instructions until engine starts. When engine starts, move/push in choke lever on engine halfway between CHOKE and RUN.
• Move throttle control to IDLE position for a few minutes warm-up. Move/push in choke lever to RUN position as engine warms up.
Models 343 & 345
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the metal loop on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
• Make certain all controls are in the neutral position (released). See Figure 8.
• Place the engine speed control in the START position.
• Push primer two (2) or three (3) times. Wait about two (2) seconds between each push.

NOTE: Primer may be needed to restart a warm engine after a short shutdown.

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