How to use this file...(Operators Manuals)
————————————————————————————————————————————–––
Instructions for
Print Vendors (Paper Manuals)
Paper Size: * 11 x 17
* Body—50 lbs brilliant white offset or equivalent.
* Cover—on pre-printed two-tone “Swash” stock.
Press: * Body—1-color, 2-sided
* Cover imprint —1-color, 1-sided
Bindery:* Saddle Stitch, Face Trim
* Face Trim
COVERS:* This file may contain several manuals, which differ only in their covers.
* Covers are all present at the beginning of this file.
* Back cover for a particular manual is the page IMMEDIATELY AFTER the front cover.
• Check the front cover for the individual part number (typically a 171xxxx number).
BODY: • The body of the manual is identical, regardless of the cover used.
* REMEMBER: ODD number pages are ALWAYS right hand pages, and EVEN number are ALWAYS
left hand pages.
General: * This instruction page is NOT part of the manual and must NOT be printed.
• Pages labeled with the text “THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK” are placement pages ONLY,
and should NOT be printed.
————————————————————————————————————————————–––
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
Rear Tine Tiller
5HP Rear Tine Tiller
Mfg. No. Description
1693705 5HP Rear Tine Tiller
6HP Rear Tine Tiller
Mfg. No. Description
1693704 6HP Rear Tine Tiller
8HP Rear Tine Tiller
Mfg. No. Description
1693207 8HP Rear Tine Tiller
1722191
Rev 12/1999
TP 100-2628-00-RT-S
Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc.
500 N. Spring Street • P.O. Box 997
Port Washington, Wisconsin 53074-0997
Table Of Contents
T ABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................... 1
OPERA TION SAFETY................................................. 2
Owner's Responsibility.............................................. 2
Cautions and Important Notes .................................. 2
Important Safety Instructions ................................... 2
SAFETY SIGNS & DECALS ....................................... 4
Safety Decals ........................................................... 4
FEA TURES.................................................................. 5
CONTROLS ................................................................. 6
Drive Control Levers ................................................. 6
Reverse Handle ........................................................ 7
Engine Controls ........................................................ 8
ADJUSTMENTS .......................................................... 9
Wheel Lockouts ........................................................ 9
Handlebar Adjustments........................................... 10
Drag Stake.............................................................. 1 1
Belt T ension Adjustment ......................................... 1 1
TIPS .......................................................................... 15
Tilling Tips .............................................................. 1 5
Cultivating Tips ....................................................... 15
MAINTENANCE AND STORA GE............................... 16
Check Forw ard Belt Tension.................................... 16
Change Forward/Reverse Belt................................. 1 7
Check or Fill Engine Crankcase .............................. 1 8
Check Tiller T ransmission Grease ........................... 19
Check Tire Pressure ............................................... 19
Lubrication .............................................................. 19
Engine Maintenance ............................................... 2 0
Clean Tine Axle Shaft ............................................. 20
Prepare for Storage................................................. 21
Tiller and Engine Maintenance Schedule................. 2 1
TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR ......................... 22
T roubleshooting Guide............................................. 2 2
SPECIFICA TIONS ..................................................... 24
Features ................................................................. 2 4
T echnical Manual A vailability .................................. 2 4
OPERA TION .............................................................. 12
Pre-Start Inspection................................................ 12
Starting and Stopping the Engine ........................... 1 3
Tilling...................................................................... 1 4
CAUTION
You must read, understand and comply with all safety
and operating instructions in this manual before
attempting to setup and operate this equipment.
Failure to comply wit all safety and operating
instructions can result in loss of machine control,
serious personal injury to you and/or bystanders, and
risk of equipment and property damage. The triangle
in the text signifies important cautions or warnings
which must be followed.
CAUTION
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
For easy reference, please record the
information on the chart below .
The Rototiller Reference Data can be found on the
identification tag located on the unit's left engine mount.
(Refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for location of
engine information serial number.)
ROTOTILLER REFERENCE DA TA
Model Description/Number
M/N (Manufacturer's Number) S/N (Serial Number)
Dealer Name Date Purchased
ENGINE REFERENCE DA TA
Engine Make/Model Engine ID/Serial Number
Page 1
Operation Safety
SECTION CHECKLIST
Owner's Responsibility
Cautions and Important Notes
Important Safety Instructions
OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY
Safe and effective use of the rototiller is the owner's
responsibility .
1. Read and follow all safety instructions.
2. Maintain the tiller according to directions and
schedule included.
3. Ensure that anyone who uses the tiller is familiar with
all controls and safety precautions.
CAUTIONS AND IMPORTANT
NOTES
T w o symbols which draw attention to inf ormation of
special importance appear throughout this manual.
These comments range in importance from helpful hints
to warnings about risk of personal injury. Please tak e the
time to read and understand them.
Indicates a situation which may cause personal
injury. It means - attention! Become alert! Your
safety is in volved.
Provides helpful information for proper
assembly , operation, or maintenance of your
rototiller .
Please read this section carefully . Operate the tiller
according to the safety instructions and
recommendations outlined here and inserted throughout
the text. Make sure anyone who uses the tiller has read
the instructions and is familiar with the controls.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL
• CAREFULL Y READ THIS MANU AL AND FOLLOW
ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
• Be familiar with all controls before operating the
tiller. Your tiller is equipped with a safety device that
enables you to stop the wheels and tines quickly in
an emergency . Learn how the drive control lev ers
work and how to control the tiller at all times.
• Never allow children to operate the tiller . K eep small
children away from the area being tilled. Do not allow
adults to operate the tiller without proper instruction.
The right and left sides of
your rototiller are determined from the operating
position as you face the
direction of forward travel.
PREPARATION
• Dress appropriately when operating the tiller. Alwa ys
wear sturdy footwear . Nev er wear sandals, sneakers ,
or open shoes, and never operate the tiller with bare
feet. Do not wear loose clothing that might get
caught in moving parts.
• Carefully inspect the area to be tilled, and remove all
foreign objects. Do not till above underground water
lines, gas lines, electric cables, or pipes. Do not
operate the tiller in soil with large rocks and foreign
objects which can damage the equipment.
• Disengage all clutches and shift into neutral before
starting the engine.
• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
a. Use an approv ed fuel container.
b . Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.
c. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill
fuel tank indoors.
d. Replace gasoline cap securely and clean up
spilled fuel before restarting.
• Never attempt to make any adjustments while the
engine is running.
Page 2
Operation Safety
OPERATION
• Never operate the tiller without guards, covers, and
hoods in place.
• Never start the engine or operate the tiller with
the wheels in the free-wheel position. Make sure
the wheel lockouts are engaged through wheel hubs
and wheel axle. The wheels act as a brak e to keep
the tiller at a controlled speed. Disengage wheel
lockouts to permit free-wheeling only when engine is
stopped.
• Keep hands, f eet, and clothing awa y from rotating
parts. Keep clear of tiller tines at all times.
• Tines and wheels rotate when tiller is engaged in
forward
rotate when the drive control levers are pulled down;
in
reverse handle is pulled bac k towards the operator .
Releasing the drive control levers to
the wheels and tines.
• Be extremely cautious when operating in
Take extra care to avoid slipping or f alling, and to
keep feet clear of tines.
• Exercise extreme caution when operating on or
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for
hidden hazards or traffic.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly
inspect the tiller for any damage, and repair the
damage before restarting and operating the tiller.
or
reverse
reverse
, wheels and tines rotate when the
-- in
forward
, tines and wheels
neutral
reverse
stops
.
• 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 ma y
catch in the ground and propel the tiller forward. If
this occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not
restrain the machine.
• T ake all possib le precautions when leaving the
machine unattended. Disengage all controls levers,
stop the engine, wail for all mo ving parts to stop, and
make certain guards and shields are in place.
• When leaving the operating position for any reason:
- shut off the engine.
- wait for all moving parts to stop.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
• Keep machine, attachments, and accessories in saf e
working condition.
• Check shear bolts, engine mounting bolts, and other
bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
• To prevent accidental starting, always disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug before
performing tiller maintenance.
• Never run the engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are
deadly .
• Always allow muffler to cool before filling fuel tank.
• If vegetation clogs the tines, raise the handlebars to
elevate the tines, and run the tiller in
does not clean clogged vegetation from the tines,
STOP THE ENGINE AND DISCONNECT THE
SP ARK PLUG WIRE bef ore removing vegetation by
hand.
• Engine muffler will be hot from operation. Do not
touch it with bare skin or a severe burn may result.
• If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are
dangerous.
• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting
to till too deep at too fast a rate.
• Never operate the machine at high tr ansport speeds
on slippery surfaces. Look behind and use care
when backing.
reverse
. If this
• Never store equipment with gasoline in the tank
inside a closed building where fumes may reach an
open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any building.
• Always refer to the operator's guide instructions for
important details if the tiller is to be stored for an
extended period.
Page 3
Safety Signs & Decals
SAFETY DECALS
Safety warning decals are placed at strategic locations on the equipment as a constant reminder to the operator
of the most important precautions. All warning, caution and instructional messages on your equipment should be
carefully read and obeyed. If an y of these decals are lost or damaged, replace them at once. They can be
purchased from your local dealer.
Part No. 1716747
OPERA TING INSTRUCTIONS / Hood Decal
Part No. 1716800
WARNING / Belt Co ver Decal
Part No. 1716840
TINES DANGER / Hood Flap Decal
Part No. 1716839
FREE HAND / Bumper Guard Decal
Page 4
MODEL 616RT
Rear View of Handlebar Console
Drive Control Lever
Reverse Handle
Reverse Belt Tension
Adjustment
Belt Cover
Features
Handlebar Tilt Lever
Console
Forward Belt Tension
Adjustment
Engine Controls
Handlebar Swivel Lever
Drag Stake
Detent Pin
Engine Oil Fill Plug
Wheel Lockout
Page 5
Controls
SECTION CHECKLIST
Drive Control Levers
Reverse Handle
Engine Controls
DRIVE CONTROL LEVERS
Engage wheels and tines into forward, releasing returns
machine to neutral.
Pulling down on drive control levers engages the wheels
and tines. Releasing drive control levers disengages the
wheels and brings the tiller to a complete stop. It is now
in the neutral position.
Drive Control Levers
Engaged
CAUTION
This information is provided here only to introduce the
controls. DO NOT ST AR T THE ENGINE AT THIS TIME.
Starting and operating instructions are given on page
13. Please read this section and all operating and safety
instructions before starting your tiller.
CAUTION
ENGINE SHOULD BE OFF BEFORE ADJUSTING
ANY CONTROLS!
❖ As a safety precaution, the drive control levers
will not lock in the forward position.
❖ To stop the wheels and tines at any time, release
the drive control levers.
Page 6
REVERSE HANDLE (616RT)
Engages wheels and tines in reverse.
Pulling reverse handle back towards operator reverses
tiller.
Drive Control Levers Released
Controls
CAUTION
Extreme caution should be used when operating
rototiller in the reverse direction.
❖ As a safety precaution, the reverse handle will
not lock in reverse.
Reverse Handle
❖ To stop the wheels and tines at any time, release
the reverse handle.
❖ Do not operate both the reverse handle and
drive control levers at the same time.
Page 7
Controls
ENGINE CONTROLS
Model 514RT Engine
Model 616RT Intec Engine
Throttle Control
Move throttle control to f ast position to start and run the
engine. To stop the engine, move to idle position, then to
off.
Choke Control
Put choke control in choke position if engine is cold. A
warm engine requires less choking than a cold engine.
Refer to your engine manual f or further information.
Model 616RT
1.Spark plug wire
2.Air cleaner
3. Choke
4. Carburetor
5.Fuel shut-off valve (if equipped)
6.Rope handle
7.Finger guard
8.Stop switch (if equipped)
9.Fuel fill
10.Fuel tank
11.Oil fill/Dipstick (if equipped)
12. Blower housing
13.Oil drain plug
14.Oil fill cap
15.Engine Id plate
16. Muffler
Model 616RT Intec Engine
Page 8
Adjustments
SECTION CHECKLIST
Wheel Lockouts
Handlebar Adjustments (Tilt & Swivel)
Drag Stake
Belt T ension Adjustment
WHEEL LOCKOUTS (616RT)
Place wheels in tilling position.
1. Pull knob in center of wheel out, away from machine.
2. Rotate knob and lockout to align with slot on axle,
release knob. Rotate wheel to align slot in wheel hub
with lockout.
3. Wheel and axle should be firmly locked together
before tilling.
4. Repeat for other wheel.
Model 616RT
(6-hp)
WHEEL LOCKOUTS (514RT)
Place wheels in tilling position.
1. Remove lockpin. Align hole in axle with hole in wheel
hub.
2. Insert lockpin through holes, fold lockpin ring to
secure pin to axle.
3. Wheel and axle should be firmly locked together
before tilling.
4. Repeat for other wheel.
Model 514RT
(5-hp)
Wheel lockpin in free-wheel position.
(axle hole only)
Wheel lockout in tilling position.
(hub & axle slot)
NOTE: Always have both wheel loc kouts in or out.
Do not operate tiller with only one wheel locked.
T o place wheels in free-wheel position.
1. Pull knob in center of wheel out, away from machine .
2. Rotate knob and lockout to align lockout with detent
in end of axle. Release knob .
3. Wheel should turn freely on axle.
NOTE: Always have both wheel loc kouts in or out.
Do not operate tiller with only one wheel locked.
T o place wheels in free-wheel position.
1. Remove lockpin. Slide wheel inward toward machine.
2. Insert pin in axle only.
3. Wheel should turn freely on axle.
CAUTION
Never start engine or operate tiller with wheels in freewheel position. The free-wheel position is for
transporting the tiller long distances over level g round-
-do not attempt to move the tiller up or down steep
grades in the free-wheel position.
Page 9
Adjustments
HANDLEBAR ADJUSTMENTS
(616RT)
Tilt handlebars up or down, swivel 30
T o Tilt Up or Do wn:
1. Push down on handlebar tilt lev er .
2. While holding tilt lever down, adjust handlebars to a
comfortable height by moving up or down. There are
4 height positions.
3. Release handlebar tilt lever to lock.
T o Swivel 30
1. Squeeze handlebar swivel lever towards handlebar
stem.
2. While holding handlebar swivel lever in, rotate
handlebar 30° left or right.
3. Handlebars will lock in place after handlebar swivel
lever is released.
°°
°
Left or Right:
°°
°
left or right.
HANDLEBAR ADJUSTMENTS
(514RT)
Adjust handlebar height.
The ideal height of the handlebar varies with operator
height and the depth of tilling. to adjust handlebar height:
1. Unscrew T-Clamp until handlebar moves freely up and
down.
2. Align locator pin to desired hole in the height
adjustment bracket by raising or lowering handlebars.
3. Retighten T -Clamp firmly.
high
medium
low
T-clamp
Handlebar Tilt Lever
Model 514RT
3 HANDLEBAR HEIGHT SETTINGS
Model 616RT
Handlebar Swivel Lever
Page 10
Adjustments
DRAG STAKE
Tilling depth is controlled by the height of the drag
stake.
To adjust tilling depth.
1. Remove detent pin.
2. Raise the drag stake to position tines at chosen
tilling depth.
3. Align hole in drag stake with hole in depth regulator
bracket and replace detent pin.
drag stake
depth regulator bracket
BELT TENSION ADJUSTMENT
Proper belt tension is critical to good performance. After
1/2 hour of operation, all cables may have to be
adjusted due to initial stretch. Thereafter , chec k tension
after every 2 hours of operation.
T o increase belt tension:
1. Loosen upper jam nut. Turn nut up cable in 1/8"
increments.
reverse cable
➜➜
➜➜
➜
bracket
up cable
forward
cable
upper jam nut
lower jam nut
Drag Stake Down =
pin in the top hole of the drag stake for shallowest tilling.
Drag Stake Up =
the bottom hole of the drag stake for deepest tilling.
Shallower tilling. Place the detent
Deeper tilling. Place the detent pin in
CAUTION
Always set the drag stake in the transport position
before starting engine, that is, place the detent pin in
the highest hole of the drag stake.
CAUTION
Do not adjust tilling depth unless drive control levers
are released to neutral position.
2. Tighten lower jam nut.
3. Check adjustment.
This procedure can be repeated until conduit adjustment
bolts have no more adjustment left. If no more
adjustment can be made, belt may have to be replaced.
NOTE: Model 514RT has a forward cab le only .
Page 11
Operation
SECTION CHECKLIST
Pre-Start Inspection
Starting and Stopping the Engine
Tilling
PRE-START INSPECTION
1. Make sure all safety guards are in place and all nuts
and bolts are secure.
CAUTION
Please do not start your tiller until you have read the
Manual that came with your engine, and the sections
in this manual titled Controls, Adjustments and Safety .
If you have read these , follow the steps below to start
your tiller. Always perform this pre-start checklist
before starting the engine.
2. Check oil level in engine crankcase. See your engine
manual for procedure and specifications.
3. Inspect air cleaner for cleanliness. See your engine
manual for procedure.
4. Check the fuel supply. Fill the fuel tank no closer than
1 inch from top of tank to provide space for
expansion. See your engine manual for fuel
recommendations.
5. Be sure spark plug wire is attached and spark plug is
tightened securely .
6. Check position of wheels and wheel lockouts.
7. Check drag stake position.
CAUTION
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be handled
with care. Never fill the tank when the engine is hot or
running. Always move outdoors to fill the tank.
CAUTION
Wheels must always be loc ked in the TILLING position
when engine is running. Do not operate the tiller with
the wheel lockouts unlocked. Always set the wheels
in tilling position before starting engine.
CAUTION
Always put the drag stake in the transport position
before starting engine. Tines should clear the ground.
Engine is shipped from factory without oil. YOU
MUST ADD ENGINE OIL BEFORE ST ARTING
ENGINE.
Page 12
STARTING AND STOPPING THE
ENGINE
To Start Engine:
1. Drive control levers should be released to neutral
position.
Operation
CAUTION
Always keep hands and feet clear of rotating machine
parts.
2. Turn fuel shut-off valve (if equipped) 1/4 turn to
3. Push choke lever to
4. Move throttle control lever to
5. Push rocker switch (if equipped) to on.
6. Pull start engine. Stand to the right of tiller engine,
grasp rope handle and pull rope out, slowly, until it
pulls slightly harder. Let rope rewind slo wly . Then
pull rope with a rapid full arm stroke. Let rope return
to starter slowly . Let engine warm for a few minutes
before beginning to operate.
7. When engine starts, operate in
8. Move choke lever toward
NOTE: If engine does not start after 3 pulls, check
troubleshooting guide for suggestions.
T o Stop Engine:
1. Mov e throttle control to
stop
position.
2. Push rocker switch (if equipped) to
3. Close fuel shut-off valve (if equipped).
choke
slow
position.
fast
position.
fast
position.
run
position.
position. Then move to
off
.
open
.
T emperature of muffler and near by areas ma y exceed
150° F. A void these areas .
CAUTION
CAUTION
Do not move choke lever to CHOKE to stop engine.
Backfire or engine damage may occur .
To stop the engine at any time, move throttle control
to the off position. T o stop wheels and tines at any
time, release drive control levers to neutral position.
Refer to your engine manual f or further information.
Page 13
Operation
TILLING
1. Adjust the drag stake to desired tilling depth.
NOTE: Raise drag stake up one hole at a time,
testing tiller operation after each raise. Raising drag
stake too high can result in loss of control of tiller!
CAUTION
To stop wheels and tines at any time, release drive
control levers to neutral position.
2. Move the throttle control to
3. Place the tiller in
drive control levers--this will engage the wheels and
tines.
NOTE: You can slow the tiller's forward ad vance at
any time by putting slight downward pressure on
the handlebars, or you can stop the tiller by
releasing the drive control levers to the neutral
position.
forward
fast
.
by pushing down on the
CAUTION
Always release drive control levers to neutral position
before adjusting the drag stake.
Practice operating the controls and tiller with tines out
of ground before beginning to till. It is important that
you know how to use the tiller properly, how to keep
control at all times, how to stop the tines and wheels
from turning, and how to stop the engine if necessary.
If you do not know how to do these things, read the
Controls, Adjustments and Safety sections before
proceeding.
Page 14
TILLING TIPS
The key to successful tilling is to begin with a shallow
cut on the first pass, and then work an inch or two
deeper on each successive pass.
✮ Tilling depth will vary with ground conditions.
✮ When beginning to till in unbroken ground or in
extremely hard soil, set the detent pin in the highest
hole of the drag stake (follow instructions under
Tilling on previous page). This will allow f or shallow
tilling. With the drag stake in this position, make
several light passes over the area to be tilled. Reset
for deeper depths with successive passes.
✮ If tiller jumps or skids uncontrollab ly, lower the drag
stake by placing the detent pin in a higher hole. This
will allow for shallower tilling. Hold firmly to the
handlebars to control sudden lurches.
✮ If weeds, tall grasses, vines, or other materials clog
or jam the tines, reverse the tiller to unwind
vegetation.
Tips
CAUTION
Extreme caution must be taken in selecting tilling
depth. If you attempt to till too deeply for soil conditions,
that is, with the drag stake in too high a position, loss
of control could result.
CAUTION
If removing material from the tines by hand, stop engine
and remove spark plug wire first.
Immediately release the drive control levers if the tines
jam or you strike a foreign object. With drive control
levers in neutral, push throttle control to stop position to
stop the engine. Disengage the spark plug wire. When
tines have stopped, remove foreign objects and check
for damage.
CULTIVATING TIPS
If you plan to use your tiller for cultivating:
✮ Plant rows on 20" - 22" centers for ease of turning.
✮ Set the drag stake with the detent pin in one of the
higher holes. This will allow the shallow cultiv ation
necessary to turn over weeds, and break up and
aerate the soil.
Page 15
Maintenance and Storage
SECTION CHECKLIST
Check Forw ard Belt Tension
Change Forward/Reverse Belt
Check or Fill Engine Crankcase
Check Tiller T ransmission Grease
CAUTION
To prevent accidental starting:
Check Tire Pressure
Lubrication
Engine Maintenance
Clean Tine Axle Shaft
Prepare for Storage
Tiller and Engine Maintenance Schedule
CHECK FORWARD BELT TENSION
Forward belt tension may decrease over time. It must be
adjusted within the first half hour of operation, and
checked after every two hours of operation. Proper
adjustment will assure long belt life. T oo much or too
little belt tension will cause premature belt failure. To
check and adjust the forward belt tension:
1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
3. With drive control levers in neutral position, measure
length of spring when compressed.
4. Pull down on drive control levers and remeasure
length of spring when stretched out. Ideal length
would be 1/4" longer.
Engine must be turned off and cool, and spark plug
wire must be removed from spark plug before checking
and adjusting engine or equipment.
1"
1-1/4"
Page 16
CAUTION
Check forward belt tension regularly . Too much or too
little tension will cause premature belt failure.
CHANGE FORWARD/REVERSE
BELT
NOTE: Change reverse belt on Model 616RT onl y .
1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
3. Remove belt guard.
✮ remove the forward belt from the forward engine
pulley:
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the
pulley .
- with the pulley turning, force the forward belt out
of the V-groove.
- slide the belt free of the engine pulley.
- pull the forward belt down and out of the w ay.
✮ remove the reverse belt from the reverse engine
pulley:
Reverse On
Model 616RT
Only
Maintenance and Storage
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the
pulley .
- with the pulley turning, force the reverse belt out
of the V-groove.
- slide the belt free of engine pulleys and reverse
belt guides.
- pull belt down and awa y from transmission pulle y.
✮ install new reverse belt:
- thread belt up from bottom.
- place belt around transmission pulley in groove.
- place belt under reverse belt guides.
- gently pull engine recoil rope while forcing the belt
over the edge of the engine pulley into the
V -groov e.
✮ install new forward belt:
- place forward belt in transmission pulley groove.
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the
pulley while forcing the forward belt into the
V -groove .
4. Replace belt guard.
5. Attach spark plug wire.
Page 17
Maintenance and Storage
CHECK OR FILL ENGINE
CRANKCASE
1. Add oil according to chart below . Do not overfill.
Use a high quality detergent oil classified "For
Service SF-SJ,". Use no special additives with
recommended oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
2. Always chec k oil le vel before starting engine. Refer
to engine manual for complete instructions.
Engine is shipped from factory without oil. Y ou
must add engine oil before starting engine.
Adapted from Briggs & Stratton Corporation, Form No. 274263-10/99.
*
Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines. Use
of non-synthetic multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W-30, etc.)
above 40ο F (4ο C) will result in high oil consumption and
possible engine damage. Check oil level more frequently if
using these types of oils.
**
SAE 30 oil, if used below 40
starting and possible engine bore damage due to
inadequate lubrication.
ο
ο
F (4
C), will result in hard
Adapted from Briggs & Stratton Corporation, Form No. 274263-10/99.
Page 18
Maintenance and Storage
CHECK TILLER TRANSMISSION
GREASE
TILLER TRANSMISSION IS SHIPPED FR OM
F ACT ORY WITH THE PROPER AMOUNT OF
00 LIQUID GREASE.
Check the grease lev el annually. T o check the grease
level:
1. Move tiller to level ground.
2. Remove grease level dipstick located on the front
transmission cover. Correct 00 grease level is
indicated between the high and low levels on the
dipstick.
3. Replace grease level dipstick in the filler hole.
4. Note that the front wheel transmission and rear tine
transmission are one common reservoir. When you
add to the front transmission, you must wait a short
period of time for the 00 grease to flow rearward and
equalize in both front and rear . The dipstick will read
correctly on level ground for both gear units.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
Recommended tire pressure is 20 PSI. If tires do not
have equal pressure, tiller will pull to one side.
LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication of moving mechanical parts of your
rototiller is a very important part of care and
maintenance. Y ou should oil the moving parts shown at
10 hour intervals using a 30 weight oil.
Tilt Lever
Swivel Lever
Grease Fill Hole
When replacing grease, the tiller transmission
holds 18-22 ounces. DO NO T OVERFILL.
Wheel Lockouts
Page 19
Maintenance and Storage
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Refer to the engine manual included in y our parts
packet for inf ormation on engine maintenance. Your
engine manual provides detailed information and a
maintenance schedule for performing the following
tasks:
CAUTION
Do not operate tiller before reading the engine manual
provided in the parts packet.
1. Check oil level before each use or after every 8 hours
of operation.
2. Change oil after first 5-8 hours of operation. Change
oil while engine is warm. Refill with new oil of
recommended grade.
4. Check spark plug yearly or every 100 hours of
operation.
5. Service air cleaner.
6. Keep engine and parts clean.
7. Check engine and equipment often for loose nuts
and bolts, keep these items tightened.
CLEAN TINE AXLE SHAFT
1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
3. Tip the tiller forward. Block the tiller in position so
that it rests on the engine mount and the tines are
exposed.
4. Remove all vegetation, string, wire, and other
material that may have accumulated on the axle
between the inside set of tines and the seal on the
transmission housing.
CAUTION
T emperature of muffler and near by areas ma y exceed
150° F. A void these areas.
Engine can overheat and become damaged if debris
blocks the cooling system or rotating screen.
Never run engine without complete air cleaner
installed on engine.
5. Tip the tiller back to a level position.
6. Replace spark plug wire.
Page 20
Maintenance and Storage
PREPARE FOR STORAGE
Follow the steps below to prepare your tiller for storage.
Read your engine manual for detailed instructions on
preparing the engine for storage.
1. Protect wheels and axles from rust:
- Loosen locking bolt inside wheel. Slide wheel
toward machine.
- Coat the axles lightly with axle grease.
- Move wheel back into position and snug locking
bolt. Back off locking bolt 1/16 turn and lock jam
nut.
2. Run with gas stabilizer in fuel.
3. Drain the fuel tank. Run the engine until it stops.
4. While engine is still warm, drain the oil from the
engine. Refill with fresh oil of the recommended
grade.
5. Remove spark plug, pour one-half ounce of clean
engine oil into cylinder. Pull starter handle slowly
several times to distribute oil. Replace spark plug.
6. Clean entire tiller.
7. Store your tiller in a clean, dry building.
Do not store tiller in an unventilated area where fuel
fumes may reach flame, sparks, pilot lights or an
ignited object. Drain fuel outdoors away from any
ignition sources. Use only approved fuel containers.
TILLER AND ENGINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
CAUTION
Your tiller will require maintenance including service and adjustments before and after use. To help ensure long life
and peak performance for your tiller , f ollow the maintenance schedule below . Ref er to your Briggs & Stratton manual
to establish a maintenance schedule for the engine.
Maintenance Operation See Page # Before Each Use 50 hrs or
Every Season
Check forward belt tension__________ 1 6 ___________ ✓
Check or fill engine crankcase _______ 1 8 ___________ ✓
Check tiller transmission grease _____ 1 9 ___________ ✓
Check tire pressure _______________ 1 9 ___________ ✓
Change forward/reverse belt _________ 17 _______________________________ ✓
Clean tine axle shaft ______________ 20 _______________________________ ✓
Lube wheel axle shaft _____________ 21 _______________________________ ✓
Check throttle control adjustment ____ EM_______________________________ 1
Change engine oil ________________ EM_______________________________ 2
EM = See engine manual.
1 Adjust throttle control after first 3 hours of operation or if engine is hard to start or run-on occurs.
2 Change oil after first 5-8 hours of use, then after every 50 hours or every season. Change oil every 25 hours
when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures.
Page 21
Troubleshooting and Repair
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM REMEDY/ACTION
Engine will not start
CAUTION
Practice safety at all times. Engine must be turned off
and allowed to cool, and spark plug wire must be
disconnected before attempting any maintenance or
repair.
1. Connect spark plug wire to spark plug
2.Throttle must be positioned at choke for a cold start
(see page 8 for instructions)
Engine runs rough, floods during operation
Engine is hard to start
Engine misses or lacks power
Engine will not stop when throttle control is
positioned at stop
Tiller moves forward during starting
Tiller is difficult to control when tilling (machine jumps
or lurches forward)
1. Clean or replace air cleaner
1.Drain old fuel and replace with fresh. Use gas stabilizer
at end of season
2.Make sure spark plug wire is securely attached to spark
plug
neutral
neutral
to start
to start
3.Drive control levers must be released to
the engine
1. Raise the tines for shallower tilling by lowering the drag
stake, see page 11
2.Remove and clean fuel tank
3. Clean or replace air cleaner
4.Improper carburetor adjustment, take to authorized
Briggs & Stratton service center
5.Replace spark plug and adjust gap
6.Drain and refill gas tank and carburetor
1. See engine manual to check and adjust throttle linkage
1. Drive control levers must be released to
the engine
1. Lock wheels in tilling position, see page 9
2.Raise the tines for shallower tilling by lowering the drag
stake, see page 11
Tines turn, wheels do not turn
Tines turn, wheels turn, tiller does not move
1. Lock wheels in tilling position, see page 9
2.Internal transmission failure, see your dealer
1. Lower the tines for deeper tilling by raising the drag
stake, see page 11
Page 22
PROBLEM REMEDY/ACTION
Belts squeal in neutral and/or reverse
Troubleshooting and Repair
1. Adjust forward belt guide:
- turn engine off and allow muffler to cool
- disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
- remove belt guard
- pull down on drive control levers
- manually bend forward belt guide so there is 1/16
inch or less clearance between belt guide and belt
- replace belt guard and spark plug wire
Belts squeal in forward operation
Excessive heat build up in transmission/tine area
during tilling
1. Adjust tabs on the reverse belt guide
- turn engine off and allow muffler to cool
- disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug
- release drive control levers to
- remove belt guard
- adjust tabs of reverse belt guide:
while drive control levers are released, bend metal
tabs on reverse belt guide to 1/64 inch or less
clearance from reverse belt
- replace belt guard and spark plug wire
1. Remove vegetation by following instructions in Clean
Tine Axle Shaft on page 20 of Maintenance & Storage
section. FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.Check transmission fluid and fill if needed by following
instructions on page 19
neutral
Page 23
Specifications
FEATURES
N 6-HP Briggs & Stratton Engine (616RT)
N 5-HP Tecumseh Engine (514R T)
N T ractor T ype Pneumatic Tires
N All Gear Drive T r ansmission
N Handlebar Height Adjustment
N Forward/Re verse Control (616RT)
N Functional Drag Stake System
N Wheel Lockout Control (616RT)
N Drive Safety Control Lev ers
N Self Cleaning Bolo Tines (616RT)
N Slasher Tines (514RT)
N Bumper Guard (616RT)
N Hiller-Furrower Attachment - Optional
TECHNICAL MANUAL
AVAILABILITY
Additional copies of this manual, as well as a fully
illustrated Parts Manuals for your unit are a vailab le. The
Parts Manuals show all of the assemblies and individual
parts as exploded views which show the relationship of
the parts and how they go together. Important assembly
notes and special torque values are included in the
illustrations. Standard hardware and torque specification
charts are also included.
T o order copies of the manuals applicab le
to your model, contact the Simplicity
Customer Publications Department at
414-284-8519.
Have the following information on the form
at the right available when phoning in your
request.
Model: __________________________________________________
M/N (Mfg. No.): ___________________________________________
S/N (Serial #): ____________________________________________
Your Name: ______________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________
City, State, Zip: ___________________________________________
Visa/Mastercard No.: ______________________________________
Card Expiration Date: ______________________________________
Page 24
Loading...