* Safety
* Assembly
* Features and Controls
* Operation
* Maintenance
* Parts List
Model
12097
Serial Numbers;
120971400101 -120971499999
GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED
Page 2
Dear Owner:
Congratulations on your purchase of a Tiller/Edger with
Edger Attachment. It has been designed, engineered and
manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Please carefully read this Manual which provides information
on how to safely and easily set-up, operate and maintain your
machine. Be sure that you and any other operators carefully
follow the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure
to do so could result in personal injury or property damage.
If you should ever have any problems or questions, please
contact your local authorized service dealer or call the Factory.
See the back cover of this Manual for Customer Service infor
mation.
We want to be sure that you are completely satisfied at all
times.
See Back Cover for
Customer Service Information
Safety Alert Symbol
This is a safety alert symbol. It is used in this
manual and on the unit to alert you to potential haz
A
sages could result in personal injury or property damage.
ards. When you see this symbol, read and obey the
message that follows it. Failure to obey safety mes
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.
A WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemi
sais known to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
A WARNING
TO AVOID INJURY:
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL.
KNOW LOCATION AND FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES AND SHIELDS IN PLACE AND
WORKING.
NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR UNINSTRUCTED ADULTS TO
OPERATE MACHINE.
SHUT OFF ENGINE AND DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE
BEFORE MANUALLY UNCLOGGING 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.
Page 3
Section
g Safety
SPARK ARRESTER WARNING TO RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA AND SEVERAL OTHER STATES
Under California law, and under the laws of several other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal combustion engine
using hydrocarbon fuels on any forest, brush, hay, grain, or grass covered land; or land covered by any flammable agricultural crop
without an engine spark arrester in continuous effective working order.
The engine on the unit is an internal combustion engine which burns gasoline, a hydrocarbon fuel, and must be equipped with a
spark arrester muffler in continuous effective working order. The spark arrester must be attached to the engine exhaust system in
such a manner that flames or heat from the system will not ignite flammable material. Failure of the owner/operator of the unit to
comply with this regulation is a misdemeanor under California law (and other states) and may also be a violation of other state
and/or federal regulations, laws, ordinances or codes. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information
about which regulations apply in your area.
TRAINING
• Read this Owner’s Manual and the sep
arate Engine Owner’s Manual very care
fully before operating this equipment. Be
completely familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the equipment. Know
how to stop the unit and disengage the
controls quickly. A replacement Manual
is available by contacting your authorized
dealer or the Factory.
• Never allow children or untrained
adults to use this equipment. Let adults
operate the unit only if instructed
properly.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, particularly small children and
pets. Keep bystanders at least 25 feet
from the area of operation.
• Keep in mind that the operator or user
is responsible for accidents or hazards
occurring to other people, their property
and themselves.
• Familiarize yourself with all of the
safety and operating decals on this equip
ment and on any of its attachments or
accessories.
• Do not run engine in an enclosed area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide gas, a deadly poison that is
odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Do not
operate this equipment near buildings,
windows, or air conditioning equipment.
• Do not allow hands or any other part of
the body or clothing near the rotating
tines or near any other moving part. The
tines begin to rotate forward once the
engine is started and the Throttle/Tines
Lever is squeezed. The tines continue to
rotate until the operator releases the
Throttle/Tines Lever.
• Before inspecting or servicing any part
of the equipment, shut off engine, make
sure all moving parts have come to a
complete stop, then disconnect spark
plug wire from spark plug and move wire
away from the plug.
• Do not operate this equipment if you are
under the influence of alcohol, medication,
or when you are tired or ill.
PREPARATION
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the
equipment is to be used and remove all
foreign objects.
• Make sure that the Throttle/Tines Lever
is released and is in the neutral position
before you begin to start the engine.
• Do not operate the machine without
wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid
loose garments or jewelry that could get
caught in moving parts of the machine or
its engine.
• Do not operate the equipment when
barefoot or when wearing sandals,
sneakers, or similar lightweight footwear.
Wear protective footwear that will protect
your feet and improve footing on all
surfaces.
• Wear approved safety glasses when op
erating this equipment. The operation of
any powered machine can result in for
eign objects being thrown by high-speed
rotating parts.
• Do not till near underground electric
cables, telephone lines, pipes, or hoses.
If in doubt, contact your utility or tele
phone company to locate underground
services.
• Handle fuel with care. It is highly
flammable and has explosive vapors.
Take these precautions:
a. Use an approved fuel container.
b. Add fuel before starting the engine.
Never remove the cap of the fuel tank
or add fuel while the engine is running
or when the engine is hot. Operators
shall not smoke.
c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars,
pipes, open flames, and sparks away
from the fuel tank and fuel container.
d. Fill fuel tank outdoors and with ex
treme caution. Never fill fuel tank
when indoors. Use a funnel or spout
to prevent spillage.
e. Replace all fuel tank and fuel 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 cre
ating any source of ignition until fuel
vapors have dissipated.
• Never make adjustments to your equip
ment when the engine is running or spark
plug wire is connected (unless specifically
recommended in Owner’s Manual).
OPERATION
Operator’s Position
LEFT and RIGHT sides of the tiller are
from the operator’s position behind the
handlebars (unless noted otherwise).
• The correct operator’s position is when
you are standing behind and gripping
handlebar, facing forward toward the
engine. Do not leave this position while
using the Throttle/Tines Lever.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts.
Page 4
Section 1: Safety
• Exercise extreme caution when on or
crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
Do not carry passengers.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the
engine, let all moving parts come to a
complete stop, disconnect the spark plug
wire and prevent it from touching the
spark plug, then carefully inspect the ma
chine for damage. Repair the damage
before restarting and operating the
machine.
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or
falling.
• if the machine should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and prevent it from
touching the plug. Check immediately for
the cause. Vibration is generally a
warning of trouble. Fix the problem
before using the equipment again.
• Stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire and prevent it from touching the
spark plug whenever you leave the equip
ment, before unclogging the tines, or
when making any repairs, adjustments or
inspections.
• Take all possible precautions when
leaving the machine unattended. Always
stop the engine. Disconnect the spark
plug wire and prevent it from touching the
plug.
• Before cleaning, repairing, or in
specting, stop the engine and make cer
tain all moving parts have stopped. Dis
connect the spark plug wire and prevent it
from touching the spark plug to avoid ac
cidental starting.
• Never operate equipment without
proper guards, plates, or other protective
safety devices in place.
• Do not run the engine in an enclosed
area. The exhaust fumes from the engine
contain extremely dangerous carbon
monoxide gas. This gas is colorless,
odorless, tasteless and deadly poisonous.
• Keep children and pets away.
• Be aware that the equipment may unex
pectedly bounce upward or jump forward
if the tines should strike extremely hard
packed soil, frozen ground, or buried ob
stacles such as large stones, roots or
stumps. If you are in doubt about the
tilling conditions, always use the fol
lowing operating precautions to assist
you in maintaining control of the
equipment:
a. Stand behind the equipment, using
both hands on the handlebars. Relax
your arms, but use a secure hand
grip.
b. Start tilling at shallow depths, working
gradually deeper with each pass.
c. Clear the tilling area of all large stones,
roots, and other debris.
d. In an emergency, stop the tines by re
leasing the Throttle/Tines Lever on the
handlebar. To stop the engine, move
the engine On/Off switch to OFF.
• Do not overload the machine’s capacity
by attempting to till too deeply at too fast
a rate.
• Never operate the equipment on slip
pery surfaces. Look behind and use care
when backing up.
• Do not operate the equipment on a
slope that is too steep for safety. When
on slopes, slow down and make sure you
have good footing.
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.
• Only use attachments and accessories
that are factory-approved.
• Never operate the equipment without
good visibility or good light.
• Never operate the unit if you are tired,
or under the influence of alcohol, drugs,
or medication.
• Do not tamper with the engine gov
ernor settings on the machine; the gov
ernor controls the maximum safe oper
ating speed and protects the engine and
all other moving parts from damage
caused by engine overspeed. Authorized
service shall be sought if a problem
exists.
• Do not touch engine parts which may
be hot from operation. Allow parts to
cool before inspecting, cleaning or
repairing.
• Remember: you can stop the tines by
releasing the Throttle/Tines Lever. Move
the engine On/Off switch to OFF to shut
the engine off.
• Never transport this machine when the
engine is running.
• Terminals and non-insulated electrical
parts shall be protected against shorting
during normal servicing, refueling or
lubrication.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or
pulling the machine toward you.
• Start the engine carefully according to
instructions and with feet well away from
the tines.
MAiNTENANCE/STORAGE
• Keep the tiller, attachments and acces
sories in safe working condition.
• Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at fre
quent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure equipment is in safe working
condition.
• Never store equipment with fuel in fuel
tank inside a building where fumes may
reach an open flame or spark (hot water
and space heaters, furnaces, clothes
dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc.).
• Allow the engine to cool before storing
the equipment.
• Keep the engine free of grass, leaves,
or grease to reduce the chance of a fire
hazard.
• Store gasoline in a cool, well-ventilated
area, safely away from any spark- or
flame-producing equipment. Store gaso
line in an approved container, safely away
from the reach of children.
• Never perform maintenance when
engine is running or spark plug wire is
connected unless instructed to do so.
• If fuel tank must be drained, do so
outdoors.
• Follow manufacturer’s recommenda
tions for safe loading, unloading, trans
port and storage of machine.
Page 5
Section
Assembly
A WARNING
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
Read these instructions in their entirety
before you attempt to assemble or op
erate your new equipment.
The Border/Edger Attachment (H, Figure
5) does not need to be installed until you
are ready to do edging projects (refer to
instructions in this Section).
IMPORTANT: The correct mixture of un
leaded automotive gasoline and two-cycle
motor oil (a 24:1 ratio of gasoline to twocycle oil) must be added to the fuel tank
before starting the engine. See instruc
tions in this Section.
UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Inspect your machine immediately. If
you find or suspect damage to the carton
or contents, contact your local authorized
dealer or the Factory for assistance.
2. Remove any packing material. Check
for small parts before discarding the
packing material. Loose parts include the
following:
3. Perform the assembly on a clean, level
surface. Be careful not to severely bend
any of the control cables on the unit.
4. Before starting any assembly steps,
disconnect the engine spark plug wire
trom the spark plug.
ASSEMBLY STEPS
STEP1: Unfold and
Adjust Handlebars
IMPORTANT: Be careful not to pinch any
control cables while unfolding and ad
justing the handlebars.
1. Loosen the two handlebar knobs (A,
Figure 1) and unfold the handlebars into
the operating position. Do not use force
— if there is binding, continue to loosen
the knobs.
Figure 1: Loosen handlebar knobs and
unfold handlebars. Slide plastic ties to the
locations shown.
2. There are two height settings holes in
the upper handlebar. The unit is shipped
with the handlebar knobs in the lowest
height setting holes. If this height is cor
rect for you, simply tighten the two han
dlebar knobs. If a higher setting is de
sired, reposition the handlebar knobs,
mounting screws and washers in the
other set of holes.
3. Check the locations of the six plastic
ties (C, Figure 1). The ties must be posi
tioned as shown.
NOTE: There is just one handlebar storage
position - folded over the engine as origi
nally shipped.
STEP 2; Inspect
and Tighten Hardware
Check all nuts, bolts and screws on your
unit and tighten as needed. NOTE: Use a
7/16" socket with an extension to check
hardware at ends of handlebar.
Toots Needed to Check for Loose
Hardware:
• Adjustable wrench
• Slotted-head screwdriver
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Use a 7/16" socket and extension
(to check hardware at ends of handlebar)
IMPORTANT: Do not tighten engine gov
ernor screw (D, Figure 2). It is factory-
adjusted for proper engine operation.
A DANGER
• Gasoline and its vapors are highly
flammable and explosive. Keep gaso
line away from possible ignition
sources.
• Do not smoke while mixing the gaso
line and two-cycle oil together or
when filling the fuel tank.
• Never fill fuel tank when engine is run
ning or hot.
Faiiure to follow these precautions could
result in the fuel igniting, causing per
sonal injury or property damage.
STEP 3: Add a Mixture of Gasoline
and Two-Cycle Oil to the Fuel Tank
IMPORTANT: Read the separate Engine
Owner’s Manual before starting the
engine.
1. Use clean, high quaiity 2-cycle oil,
NMMA TC-WII orTC-W3. DO NOT USE
MULTI-VISCOSITY OIL!
2. Use fresh, clean, unleaded regular,
unleaded premium or reformulated au
tomotive gasoline only. DO NOT USE
LEADED GASOLINE.
NOTE: Do not use gasoline containing
methanol (wood alcohol). Fuel containing
up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or up to
15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether)
may be used, but requires special care
when the engine is not used for extended
periods. See “STORAGE” instructions in
Engine Owner’s Manual for additional in
formation.
3. The fuel/oil mix ratio is 24:1 with the
use of a NMMA classified oil. For new
engines, use twice the normal oil quantity
for the first gallon of fuel. NOTE; Due to
differences in fuel and oil availability
worldwide, Tecumseh recommends a
16:1 mix ratio if NMMA oil is not
available.
Figure 2: Do not adjust or tighten the engine
governor screw.
Page 6
Section 2: Assembly
Chart 1: FUEL MIXTURE
(Mixture Ratio is 24 parts gasoline to
1 part two-cycle oil)
U.S. GasU.S. Oil
1 Gal.
2 Gal.
Metric Petrol
4 liters
8 liters
4. Do not mix fuel directly in engine iuel
tank. Always use a clean, safety-ap
proved fuel container.
• To Mix:
A. Fill a clean, approved container one
quarter full with recommended gaso
line.
B. Add recommended amount of oil per
Chart 1: FUEL MIXTURE.
C. Screw cap on container and shake
vigorously. Then unscrew cap and
fill container with gasoline per
Chart 1: FUEL MIXTURE. Screw on
cap and shake again. Once mixed,
oil and gasoline will not separate.
Fill Fuel Tank:
1. Engine must be cool. Clean area
around fuel tank cap and remove cap.
Insert a clean funnel into the fuel tank.
2. Slowly pour gasoline/oil mixture into
fuel tank. Fill tank no higher than 1/2“
from top of tank to allow for gasoline ex
pansion. Install fuel cap and clean up any
fuel spills.
5 oz.
11 oz.
Metric Oil
167 ml
333 ml
STEP 4: To Make Borders and Edges,
Install the Edger Attachment
To create borders or edges near walks,
driveways, flower beds, etc., you must
remove the four tine sections and install
the Edger Attachment (this attachment
was supplied with the unit - see Page 5).
To Install the Edger Attachment:
1. Gather together the following parts
(see Figure 4): (A) Border/Edger Tine; (B)
Long Bushing; (C) Border/Edger Wheel
and (D) Short Bushing.
2. Prop the machine carefully on the front
of the tubular carrying handle. The work
surface should be firm and flat. NOTE:
Usually the Border/Edger Tine is mounted
on the right-side of the unit for righthanded persons, and on the left-side of
the unit for left-handed persons.
3. Flip open the ring on the two ring lock
pins (E, Figures 3 and 4) and remove the
ring lock pin on each tine shaft.
IMPORTANT: The ring lock pin is under
spring tension - use care when removing
or replacing the ring lock pin.
4. It is important for proper tilling perfor
mance that the tine sections be later rein
stalled in their original positions. Mark
the position of each tine section (LeftOuter, Left-Inner, etc.) before removing
them. Refer to Figures 3 and 9 for tine
position information. See also Tine Re
moval and Installation in Section 5.
5. Install the short bushing (D, Figure 4)
on the right-hand or left-hand tine shaft.
Figure 3: Remove ring lock pins and tines
from both sides of the tine shaft. Keep left
and right-side tines separated and marked
for easier reinstallation.
the same shaft - the wheel hub should
face toward the tiller. Insert the ring lock
pin through the rounded side of the tine
shaft and snap the ring down over the
shaft (see
Figure 4).
DETAIL - Ring Lock Pin,
6. Slide the long bushing (B) on the op
posite side shaft. Then install the
Border/Edger tine (A) and secure it with
the ring lock pin.
See Section 4 for instructions on using
the Border/Edger Attachment.
See Tine Removal and Installationin Sec
tion 5 for information on how to reinstall
the tines.
A WARNING
Contact with rotating tines or other
moving parts can cause serious per
sonal injury.
Before installing or removing attach
ments, or adjusting or servicing the ma
chine, stop the engine, let all moving
parts come to a complete stop, discon
nect the spark plug wire and move the
wire away from the spark plug.
Figure 4: The Border/Edger tine (A) can be mounted on left or right
sides of machine (with long bushing B). The Border/Edger wheel
(C) mounts on the other side (with short bushing D).
Page 7
Section
a1 Features and Controls
KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT
READ THIS OWNER’S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR EQUIPMENT. Know the
location and function of all features and controls on the equipment. Save this manual for future reference.
A WARNING
Before operating your machine, carefully read and under
stand 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.
Handlebar Height Adjustment Knob (B, Figure 5)
Two height settings, plus a storage position are available.
Refer to Assembly Steps, STEP 1in Section 2 for adjustment
instructions.
Tilling Depth Adjustment Knob (C, Figure 5)
Loosening the knob enables you to move the wheel bracket
(K) up or down on the height adjustment bar (L). This con
trols the tilling depth.
IMPORTANT: Do not move the wheel bracket any higher than
the top of the adjustment bar.
Adjustable Tine Patterns (0, Figure 5)
The four tine sections are arranged from the factory for max
imum performance under a wide variety of conditions. If
needed, the tines can be arranged for narrower tilling or close
cultivating. The tines can also be arranged to till very stony
soil. See Adjusting Tine Positionsin Section 4 for details.
Carrying Handle (E, Figure 5)
When the handlebar is folded in the storage position the unit
can be carried by the carrying handle. The carrying handle
also serves as a tie-down anchor point.
Edger Attachment (H, Figure 5)
Use this separate attachment to create borders or edges
along walks, driveways, flower beds, etc. See Section 4 for
details on installing and using this attachment.
Figure 5: Features and controls.
Engine Controls
Engine On/Off Switch (A, Figure 5)
Use the ON/OFF Switch to start or stop the engine. See
Starting and Stopping the Engine in Section 4 and the Engine
Owner’s Manual for details.
Throttle/Tines Lever (G, Figure 5)
Squeeze this lever to start tine rotation and to vary the tine
speed. Release the lever to stop all tine motion. See Starting
and Stopping the Engine in Section 4 for details.
IMPORTANT; Do not squeeze this lever when starting the
engine.
Engine Recoil Start Rope (F, Figure 5)
Use the recoil start rope to start the engine. See Starting and
Stopping the Engine in Section 4 and the Engine Owner’s
Manual for details.
Fuel Primer Bulb (Section 4, Figure 7)
The fuel primer bulb to help start the engine under certain
conditions. See Starting and Stopping the Enginein Section
4 and the Engine Owner’s Manual for details.
Page 8
Section
Operation
AWARNING
Before operating the unit carefully read
and understand all safety, control and
operating instructions in this Manual,
the separate Engine Owner’s Manual
and the decals on the machine.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury.
PRE-START PREPARATION
Before starting the engine, perform the
foiiowing checks and services:
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from
the spark plug.
2. Move the engine On/Off switch to the
OFF position.
3. Check the six plastic cable ties (J,
Figure 5). Be sure that cables and ties are
positioned as shown. Do not kink or
pinch the control cables in the handlebar.
4. Adjust handlebar height to desired po
sition (see Assembly Steps, STEP 1:\n
Section 2).
5. Check hardware for tightness.
A DANGER
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND
ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE.
Follow the gasoline safety rules in this
Manual (Section 1) and in the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual.
Failure to follow gasoline safety instruc
tions can result in serious personal
injury and property damage.
6. Add the correct fuel mixture (see As
sembly Steps, STEP 3: in Section 2).
7. Adjust the tilling depth as follows:
a. Loosen tilling depth adjustment
knob (A, Figure 6).
b. Move wheel bracket (B, Figure 6)
up in relation to the height adjust
ment bar (C). Moving the bracket
upward results in shallower tilling,
which is recommended for initial
use.
IMPORTANT: Do not move the
wheel bracket any higher than the
top of the adjustment bar.
c. Retighten the depth adjustment
knob.
8. Reconnect the spark plug wire.
STOPPING AND
STARTING THE ENGINE
Stopping the Engine
A WARNING
Do not squeeze the Throttle/Tines Lever
while starting engine.
Tines may propel the machine forward if
the engine speed is advanced from idie.
Failure fo comply can result in personal
injury or property damage.
To stop the engine, move the On/Off
Switch (A, Figure 5) to the OFF position.
NOTE: The On/Off switch wire must be
securely connected at both ends. Check
regularly to ensure that the switch wire is
securely connected to the switch and the
engine.
Starting the Engine
1. Move On/Off Switch to ON.
2. Determine which of the next three
starting conditions to use:
First Time Starting:
Use this starting method to start a new
engine for the first time, or after run
ning out of gas, or after extended
storage. Use thumb and forefinger to
squeeze the side of the primer bulb that
is in line with the light colored rib on
the primer body, as shown in Figure 7
(Fligh-Volume Priming Position).
Squeeze the primer bulb six (6) times.
This process removes air from the
priming system. As fuel enters the
priming system, the priming action will
feel more firm.
High-Volume
Priming Position
Standard-Volume
Priming Position
Figure 7
Cold Starting:
Use this starting method after the unit
has been sitting or has been in brief
storage, and has fuel in the tank. Use
the Standard-Volume Priming Position
(Figure 7) and push in top of primer
bulb two (2) times for above 55°F, or
three (3) times if below 55°F.
Warm Starting:
Do not use the primer to restart the
engine after it has been stopped after
running and has not cooled completely.
2. Stand with your feet posi
tioned safely away from the
tines (Figure 8). Hold the
upper handlebar with one
hand. Use the other hand
to pull the recoil start rope
out slowly until you feel
resistance. Let rope
rewind slowly. Then,
quickly pull the rope all
the way out. Do this
up to ten (10) times.
Let the start rope
rewind slowly and
completely each time.
Figure 8
Page 9
Figure 9: “A ” - all four tine gangs in standard
been swapped for stony tilling conditions.
Section 4: Operation
Allow the engine to warm up for several
seconds. If engine either fails to start or
to continue running, push in primer bulb
two (2) times. Grasp starter rope and
puli with a rapid, full stroke, up to ten
(10) times.
TROUBLESHOOTING: Push the primer
bulb in two (2) more times. Using a rapid
full stroke, pull out the starting rope up to
ten (10) times. If engine still does not
start, wait 15 minutes. Do not prime
engine further. Grasp start rope and pull
with a rapid, full stroke up to ten (10)
times.
TILLING AND CULTIVATING
A WARNING
i
Keep away from rotati ng tines. Rotating
tines will cause serious personal injury.
Use your machine to break up sod, pre
pare seedbeds and for cultivating in gar
dens and flower beds. It is easy to op
erate, but it is important that you start out
slowly and read this Section thoroughly
before putting it to use. Let the machine
do most of the work. The tines will pull
the machine forward, letting you adjust
forward speed by pressing down or lifting
the handlebars.
1. Roll the machine to the work area.
2. Adjust the tilling depth to the desired
position (see Pre-Start Preparation,pre
vious page).
3. Start the engine (see Stopping and
Starting the Engine, previous page).
Stand behind the handlebar and push
down on the bar to raise the tines off the
ground. Squeeze the Throttle/Tines
Lever-the engine should speed up and
the tines start rotating. Release the
Throttle/Tines Lever to return to idle, the
tines should stop rotating or they may
rotate very slowly. Lowering them back
to the ground should stop any rotation.
NOTE; If tines continue to rotate when
engine is idling, either the idle speed is
too high or the centrifugal clutch is mal
functioning. If this occurs, contact the
Factory or your local authorized dealer.
4. Squeeze the Throttle/Tines Lever to
start the tines rotating. Lower the tines to
begin tilling. Firmly hold the handlebar to
prevent the machine from moving for
ward too quickly and to allow enough
time for the tines to dig deeply enough.
Adjust engine speed to suit the tilling
conditions. Remember that the rotating
tines help to pull the machine forward.
Use slower speeds and a shallow depth
setting when learning to use the unit and
whenever you are tilling on hard, rough or
uneven ground.
5. Do not try to till too deeply in the first
pass through sod or very hard ground. If
the machine jumps or bucks, use a shal
lower depth setting and reduce the engine
speed. With each successive pass, till
more deeply.
6. Apply downward pressure on the han
dlebars for shallower tilling. Lift the han
dlebars to dig more deeply. If the ma
chine stays and tills in one spot, try
swinging the handlebars from side to side
to start it moving forward again.
7. For easier tilling, water very hard soil a
few days before tilling. Avoid working the
soil when soggy or wet. Wait a day or
two after heavy rain for the ground to dry.
Cultivating
1. Cultivating is shallow tilling that dis
rupts weeds and aerates the upper crust
of soil.
2. Do not till deeper than Г-2" to avoid
injuring nearby plant roots. Cultivate
often, so that weeds do not grow large
and cause needless tangling in the tines.
3. With careful planning, you can space
the seed rows far enough apart to allow
sufficient room for the machine to culti
vate after the plants have grown.
Adjusting Tine Positions
Depending upon the tilling project, you
have a choice of three tine patterns:
Wide (Standard) Tine Positions - As
shipped from the factory, the unit is set
up for general tilling and cultivating. This
10” wide tine pattern (the maximum tilling
width) uses all four tine sections
(A, Figure 9). See Tine Removal and In
stallation in Section 5 for detailed informa
tion on how to set up this tine position.
Narrow Tine Positions - For a narrow,
4-1/2" tilling width, remove the outside
tine section on the left- and right-sides
(B, Figure 9). See Tine Removal and In
stallation in Section 5 for detailed informa
tion on how to set up this tine position.
Stony Soil Tine Positions - When tilling
deeply in stony soil, stones may become
jammed between the inner tines and the
machine hood. This setup swaps the two
inner tines to minimize jamming (C,
Figures). See Tine Removal and Installa
tion in Section 5 for detailed information
on how to set up this tine position.
Page 10
Section 4; Operation
Tilling Patterns
1. When preparing a seedbed, go over the same path twice in
the first row, then overlap one-half the machine width on each
successive pass (Figure 10).
2. After going up and down the rows in one direction, make
second passes at a right angle across the original passes
(Figure 11). Again, overlap each pass to thoroughly pulverize
the entire seedbed area. In very hard ground, it may take three
or four passes before the desired depth is achieved.
3. If your garden is not wide enough to till lengthwise and then
crosswise, then first overlap by one-half the machine width,
followed by successive passes at one-quarter machine width.
This overlapping method assures thorough tilling.
USING THE EDGER ATTACHMENT
The Edger Attachment makes clean, sharp edges next to walkways, driveways, paths, planted areas,
patios, etc. See Assembly Steps, STEP 4: m Section 2 for instructions on attaching this attachment.
Take your time when edging. Decide how far away the edge is to be from the walk or drive, then
slowly proceed using the walk or drive as your sight line.
Other attachments are can be purchased separately. See Attachments below for more details.
Figure 10: Use an overlap
technique on every pass.
Figure 11: Make a second set
of passes at a right angle over
the first set of passes.
ATTACHMENTS
The following Tiller/Edger attachments are available where the Tiller/Edger was purchased. See your authorized dealer or contact the
Factory for details.
Power Lawn Rake Attachment - Model 12575
The Power Lawn Rake will help keep
your lawn healthy and vigorous.
Matted grass and debris not
only looks unattractive, but
stifles lawn growth and
overall health. This attach
ment mounts without toois
and features dozens of
tempered steel “fingers”
that spring off the surface
to penetrate and loosen
matted grass without disturbing
root growth. An 18"-wide swath
covers a large lawn area quickly.
10
Lawn Aerator Attachment - Model 12574
Flelps promote healthy, dense
by aerating and loosening the
soil to contribute to better root
growth. Four tempered steel
tines puncture the surface
of the lawn, letting nutri
ents more easily reach the
roots. Assembles without
tools. When mounted, it
takes the place of the
standard tine sections.
Page 11
Section
Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing
the machine, shut off engine, let all
moving parts come to a complete stop,
disconnect the spark plug wire and move
the wire away from the spark plug.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in personal injury or property
damage.
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
REQUIRED MAINTENANCEBeforeAfter
Check Tightness of Bolts and Nuts
Clean Engine Cooling System
Check Transmission Lubricant
Service Air Filter
EveryEvery
Each
UseUseHours
•
Each25
•
.(1)
.(2)
End
75
HoursSeason
of
•
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
Transmission Maintenance
The transmission was lubricated at the
factory and should not require any further
lubrication.
However, you should check the lubricant
level after the first five (5) hours of opera
tion and every twenty-five (25) operating
hours thereafter. If needed, use a highquality, automotive-grade petroleum-base
grease.
A WARNING
Before tipping engine or equipment to
service transmission, drain fuel from
tank by running engine until fuel tank is
empty.
To check the transmission:
1. Stop the engine, let It cool and discon
nect the spark plug wire.
2. Place the machine down on its left side
so the right end of the tine shaft faces up.
3. Remove the right-side tines (see TineRemoval and Installation in this Section).
4. Clean the transmission housing.
5. Remove the three threaded plugs (A, B
and C, Figure 14) from the transmission.
Lubricant should be visible In the top two
id) - After first five (5) hours of use.
i (2) - Clean daily when conditions are
i extremely dusty or dirty.
i(3)
- Check spark plug annually or every 100
[ operating hours.
holes (B and C). If so, replace all three
plugs. If lubricant is needed, proceed as
follows.
To lubricate the transmission:
1. Place the nozzle of a standard grease
gun (D, Figure 14) firmly against the rim
of the middle hole (B) and add grease
until it begins to seep from the bottom
hole (A). Reinstall the plug in the bottom
hole (A). Next apply grease to the top fill
hole (C) until it begins to seep from the
middle hole (B). Reinstall the plugs in the
middle (B) and top (C) holes.
2. Before reinstalling the tines, use a fine
grade sandpaper to clean any rust off the
tine shaft. Apply a few drops of oil to the
tine shaft to make future tine removal
easier.
• (3)
•
•
•
Hardware/Eiectrical Connections
Before each use, check that ail hardware
is tight and that the On/Off Switch wire
connections are secure. Also check that
the switch wiring is in good condition.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Engine Lubrication
The engine is a two-cycle engine. Lubri
cation is provided by mixing two-cycle oil
with unleaded regular gasoline as de
scribed in the AssemWy Section. At
tempting to operate the engine on gaso
line alone will cause the engine to over
heat and seize up.
Engine Air Fiiter
It is extremely important that air filter ser
vice be performed according to the main
tenance schedule. Refer to the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual for inspection and
cleaning instructions.
IMPORTANT: Never run engine without air
filter assembly properly installed on engine.
Figure 14: Transmission lubricant check and
fill locations.
Other Lubrication Points
• Handlebar Adjustment Knobs; Spray
occasionally with a silicone type
lubricant.
• Throttle/Tines Lever Cable: Squeeze the
lever closed and spray a lubricant into
the cable area.
• Tine Shaft: After each use, remove the
tines, clean the tine shaft with sandpaper
and apply a light coat of oil to the tine
shaft.
Carburetor Adjustment
A WARNING
Do not tamper with the engine governor
screw which is factory-set for the proper
engine speed. Overspeeding the engine
beyond the factory high speed setting
can be dangerous and wiii void the
engine warranty. Authorized service
shail be sought if a probiem exists.
11
Page 12
Sections: Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cieaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, dis
connect spark piug wire and move wire away from spark piug.
* r?
If the engine is running poorly or has low
power while tilling, an adjustment to the
carburetor may solve the problem. How
ever, first inspect and service the spark
plug and the air filter before making a
carburetor adjustment. If the engine con
tinues to run poorly (and the fuel mixture
is fresh), proceed to the following carbu
retor adjustment instructions.This fac
tory-engineered instruction is designed to
provide continued optimum engine oper
ating performance after the engine break-
in period, which is approximately 5 to 10
hours. The adjustment, when properly
performed as described below, will not
void the engine warranty. A common
screwdriver is needed. If you prefer, see
an authorized engine dealer for
adjustment.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Prior to Carburetor Adjustment:
A WARNING
The temperature of the muffler and adja-
cenf engine areas may exceed 150°F
(65°C). Contact may cause burns. Avoid
these areas. Remove the spark plug
lead and ground the lead to the engine to
prevent accidental starts and fires.
Failure to do this could cause personal
injury.
1. Let engine cool for 30 minutes before
continuing.
2. From the operator’s position behind the
handlebars, lay the machine down on its
left side (muffler side).
Carburetor Adjustment:
1. Locate the carburetor idle mixture
screw (Figure 15). It is directly under the
air filter and is black.
Do Not Adjust Silver-Colored Screw.
2. Turn the black idle mixture screw 1/16
of a turn clockwise.
3. Return the unit to its normal upright
operating position and reconnect the
spark plug wire.
If the engine continues to run poorly, con
tact an authorized engine dealer.
Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug annually or every
100 operating hours according to the in
structions in the separate Engine Owner’s
Manual. Check that the gap is set at .030".
For replacement use Champion RCJ-6Y or
equivalent (a resistor spark plug must be
used for replacement).
Cooling System
It is important to frequently check and
remove grass clippings, dirt and other
debris that accumulates on the engine,
cooling fins, air intake screen and on
levers and linkages. This helps to ensure
adequate air cooling and correct engine
speed.
TINE REMOVAL
AND INSTALLATION
A WARNING
Avoid contact with the cutting edges on
the tines.
To avoid personal injury when removing
or installing tines, wear heavy work
gloves. The engine must be off, all
moving parts stopped, and the spark
piug wire disconnected from the spark
plug and moved away from the plug.
The tines will wear with use and they
should be replaced if tilling seems to take
longer than usual or if the soil is not
being mixed as thoroughly. Also, in addi
tion to the standard 10" tilling width tine
configuration, the tines can be arranged
in two other configurations: (1) A narrow,
4V2
" tilling width for smaller areas and (2)
A special pattern for stony soil conditions.
Figure 16: Remove ring lock pin (A) to take
offlines.
IMPORTANT: The ring lock pin (A, Figure
16) is under spring tension - wear gloves
to protect your fingers when removing or
replacing the ring lock pin.
Arranging Tines for Narrow Tiiiing
1
. Prop the machine forward so it rests
on the front of the tubular carrying
handle. The work surface should be flat
and firm.
2. Flip open the ring (A, Figure 16) on the
left side ring lock pin and remove the ring
lock pin.
3. Remove the outer tine section (do not
remove inner tine section) and mark it as
to which side it is from (left or right) and
whether it’s an outer or inner tine section.
4. Slide one of the long bushings (B,
Figure 17), provided with the unit, onto
the shaft. Insert the ring lock pin through
the rounded side of the tine shaft and
snap the ring down over the shaft (see
DETAIL - Ring Lock Pin, Figure 4, in
Section 2).
5. Repeat this procedure on the opposite
side.
12
Page 13
Sections: Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, dis
connect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug.
n'
Figure 17: Narrow tilling tine positions.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Arranging Tines
for Stony Soil Conditions
1. Prop the machine forward so it rests
on the front of the tubular carrying
handle. The work surface should be flat
and firm.
2. Remove the ring lock pin (A, Figure 16)
from both sides of the unit. Remove both
outer tine sections. Mark each section as
a left or right side tine and whether it is
an inner or outer section.
3. Remove the inner tine sections and
swap their positions (the inner right-side
section goes onto the left side of the ma
Figure 18: Stony soil tine positions.
chine, and the inner left-side goes onto
the right side of the machine).
4. Reinstall the two outer tine sections on
the sides from which they were removed
(Figure 18).
5. Insert the ring lock pins through the
rounded side of the tine shafts and snap
the rings down over the shafts (see
DETAIL - Ring Lock Pin, Figure 4,
Section 2).
To Replace Worn Tine Sections:
The tines are excessively worn if tilling
takes much longer than before and soil is
not being mixed thoroughly enough.
1. Prop the machine forward so it rests
on the front of the tubular carrying
handle. The work surface should be flat
and firm.
2. Remove the ring lock pin (A, Figure 16)
from both sides of the unit. Remove the
old tine sections and replace them with
new tine sections. Refer to Figure 16 and
the tine pattern shown in the Parts List
for tine positioning details. Insert the ring
lock pins through the rounded side of the
tine shafts and snap the ring over the
A WARNING
• Never store your equipment when
there is tuel mixture in the fuei tank.
• Never place your equipment near any
source of sparks or open flame (such
as from a hot water heater, a space
heater or clothes dryer).
Failure to comply can result in serious
personal injury or property damage.
shaft (see DETAIL - Ring Lock Pin, Figure
4, in Section 2).
STORAGE
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol-
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine while
in storage.
Off-Season Storage Procedure
1. Drain the fuel tank of all of the gasoline/two-cycle oil mixture. NOTE: Do not
use a fuel mixture that is older than one
season in order to avoid varnish deposits
throughout the fuel system. Dispose of
the fuel mixture properly.
2. Start engine and run until fuel mixture
is used up. This will prevent poor perfor
mance from stale fuel when your equip
ment is taken out of storage.
NOTE: If “Gasohol” has been used, com
plete above Instructions and then put 1/2
pint of gasoline properly mixed with two-
cycle oil (see Fuel Mixing Chart) into fuel
tank and repeat above instructions.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as STA-BIL)
is an acceptabie alternative in minimizing
the formation of fuel gum deposits during
storage. Add stabilizer to the fuel mixture
in the fuel tank or the fuel storage con
tainer. Always follow the mix ratio in
structions on the stabilizer container.
Run engine at least 10 minutes after
adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the
gas tank and carburetor if using fuel sta
bilizer.
3. Let engine cool down after fuel mixture
has been used up. Clean dirt and debris
from engine cooling fins, linkage and
other engine surfaces.
4. Pull starter handle slowly until resis
tance is felt due to compression pressure,
then stop. Release starter tension slowly
to prevent engine from reversing due to
compression pressure. This position will
close both the intake and exhaust ports to
prevent corrosion of the piston and
cylinder bore.
5. Remove tines. Clean all soil and debris
from dust covers and tine shaft. Lubri
cate tine shaft with light oil. Replace
tines.
6. Cover engine and store equipment in a
dry, sheltered location.
13
Page 14
Sections: Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for moving parts to stop, dis
connect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug.
i r?
n'
Failure to tollow these instructions can resuit in serious personai injury or property damage.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Before performing any of the corrections in this Troubleshooting Chart, refer to the appropriate information contained in this Manual
and the Engine Owner’s Manual for the correct safety precautions and servicing procedures. Contact your local authorized Engine
Service Dealer for engine service. Contact your local authorized dealer for service problems with the machine.
PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSECORRECTIVE ACTION
Engine does not start.1. Spark plug wire disconnected.
2. Out of gas/two-cycle oil fuel mixture.
3. Stale fuel mixture.
4. Priming procedure not correct.
5. Dirty air filter(s).
6. Worn, corroded or broken spark plug.
7. On/Off Switch in OFF position.
Engine runs poorly or
has low power under
tilling conditions.
1. Fouled spark plug.
2. Dirty air filter(s).
3. Stale fuel mixture.
4. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Reconnect wire to spark plug.
2. Check fuel tank. Add fuel mixture.
3. Drain old mixture. Add fresh mixture.
4. Refer to starting procedure in manual.
5. Clean or replace air filters.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Move On/Off Switch to ON.
1. Remove, inspect, clean spark plug.
2. Clean or replace dirty air filters.
3. Drain old mixture. Add fresh mixture.
4. Adjust carburetor. See Manual.
Engine overheats.1. Engine cooling fins clogged.
2. Improper amount of oil in fuel mixture.
Tines stop rotating.1. Object wedged between tines and hood.
2. Internal transmission problem.
SAFETY AND OPERATING DECALS
Decals are not shown at full size. See Parts List pages for reordering information.
A CAUTION
• READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL.
• KNOW THE LOCATION AND
FUNCTION OF ALL CONTROLS.
• KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES IN
PUCE AND WORKINC.
• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR
UNINSTRUaEO ADULTS TO
OPERATE MACHINE.
• SHUT OFF ENGINE BEFORE
MANUALLY UNCLOGGING 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.
On top, left-side tine
shield
Awarning
Hot surfaces can
cause severe burns.
Do not touch I
muffler or |
adjacent areas. I
On rear, left-side
tine shield
Awarning
KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING TINES.
ROTATING TINES WIU UUSE INJURY.
On rear, right-side tine
shield
iS
On right-side
handlebar
1. Remove dirt and debris from fins.
2. Drain tank; fill with correct mixture.
1. Remove wedged object.
2. Authorized service dealer.
Place Free Hand On Handlebar When
Starting Engine.
On right-side handlebar
14
Page 15
Model 12097
Parts List
Ref# Part#
11915039
21915040
1983632
3
1918307
4
51983731
1983636
6
71983637
81904416
91909923
1185741
10
111111600
A/R-As Required
Description
_________________________
Qt^
Transmission Case - left-side.
(Inci. pressed-in bushing)
..........
1
Transmission Case - right-side.
(Inci. pressed-in bushing)
Oil Seal
...........................................
..........
1
2
Worm Input Shaft Assembly........ 1
Input Bearing
.................................
2
Thrust Bearing ................................ 1
Ball Bearing
...................................
1
Shaft Assembly. (Inci. pressed-on worm
gear and two ring lock pins)
Oil Seal, Input
Plug, 1/8
registration card. The purpose of this card is
to register each unit at the factory so that we
can provide you with warranty benefits and in
formational bulletins.
Warranty Service
The warranty statement is included in the unit’s literature
package.
Model/Serial Numbers
A Model/Serial Numbers decal is located on the handlebar.
For ready reference, record these numbers in the spaces
below.
Date of Purchase:
Model Number:
Serial Number:_____________________________________
Authorized Dealer information
If you purchased your unit from an authorized dealer, record
the dealer’s address and phone number below for ready refer
ence:
Dealer Name:,
Address:
Phone:______
____
Left and right sides of the unit are determined by standing
behind the unit, in the operator’s position, and facing in the
__________________________________
____________________________________
IMPORTANT:
direction of forward travel.
Customer Service and Technical Service
If you have questions or problems with the
unit, contact your local dealer or the factory.
(When calling or writing, provide the
Model/Serial Numbers of the unit.)
Replacement Parts
Factory specified replacement parts are
available from your authorized dealer or di
rectly from the factory. When ordering
parts, be sure to provide the following:
• Model/Serial Numbers of the unit.
• Part number of the part needed.
• Part Description.
• Quantity needed.
NOTE: All replacement parts must conform
to our rigid quality specifications. Although
some replacement parts we provide may vary slightly in
shape, color or texture from the original parts, any variations
will not affect the fit or performance of these parts on your
unit.
Engine Service and Repair
For engine service or repair, contact your
nearest authorized engine dealer (look in the
Yellow Pages under “Engines-Gasoline”).
The engine is warranted by the engine man
ufacturer. Any unauthorized work performed
on the engine during the warranty period
may void this warranty. For complete de
tails on the engine warranty, refer to the
engine owner manual.
NOTICE:
We reserve the right to change specifications, add im
provements or discontinue the manufacture of any of our
equipment without notice or obligation to purchasers of our
equipment.
For customer assistance, contact your nearest authorized deaier or:
GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED • 1 Garden Way • Troy, New York 12180