Troy-Bilt Horse E682L Operator's Manual

TRnV BILT

Operator's Manual

Rear-tine PTO Tiller Models

E682L--Horse TM

682J--Horse TM

Model 682J 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-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law

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

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

PRINTED IN USA FORM NO. 770-10598A

(01/2002)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Content Page

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

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

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

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

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

Maintenance .............................................................. 28

Troubleshooting ........................................................... 41

Attachments & Accessories .................................................. 43

Parts List ................................................................. 44

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

FINDING MODEL NUMBER

This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new Rear-tine Tiller. It will help you assemble, prepare and

maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the infor-

mation from it in the space provided below. This information is very important if you need help from our Customer
Support Department or an authorized dealer.

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

in the space below

Copy Model Number Here

O BILT" TROY-BILT LL(

www.troybilt.com CL_E_ND, OH_136

• 866-840-648_

P. O. BOX 361131

330-558-7220

Copy Serial Number Here

ENGINEINFORMATION

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating, speci-

fications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual packed sepa-
rately with your unit for more information.

CALLINGCUSTOMERSUPPORT

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

your unit's model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous section to locate this

Call 1- [phone] or 1- [phone] to reach a Customer Support representative. Please have
information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to process your call.

2

n

Safety

SafetyAlert Symbol

,_ This is a safetyalertsymbol. It is used inthis

Failureto obey safety messagescould result in personal
injury or propertydamage.

Training

1. Carefullyreadthis Owner's Manual,the

separateEngineOwner's Manual,and any
other literature you may receive.Bethor-
oughly familiar with the controls and the
proper useof the tiller and itsengine.
Know howto stopthe unit and disengage
the controls quickly.

2. Neverallow children to operatethe
tiller. Neverallow adults to operatethe
tiller without proper instruction.

3. Keepthe areaof operation clearof all
persons, particularly children andpets.

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

andthemselves.

Preparation

1. Thoroughly inspect theareawherethe
tiller isto beusedand remove all foreign
objects.

2. Putthe Wheels/Tines/PTODrive Lever
into NEUTRALbefore starting theengine.

3. Do not operatethe tiller without
wearingadequate outergarments. Avoid
loose garmentsor jewelry that could get
caught in moving parts.

4. Do not operatethe tiller when barefoot
or wearingsandals,sneakers,or light

footwear. Wear protectivefootwear that

will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

5. Do not till nearunderground electric
cables,telephone lines,pipes or hoses. If
in doubt, contact your telephoneor utility

company.

manualand on the unit to alertyou to
potential hazards. Whenyou seethis symbol,

readand obey the messagethat follows it.

6. Warning:Handlefuel with care; it is
highly flammable andits vapors are

explosive. Besureto takethe following
precautions:

a. Store fuel in containersspecifically

designedfor this purpose.

b. The gascapshall neverbe removed

or fuel addedwhile the engineis
running. Allow the engine to cool

for severalminutes beforeadding
fuel.

c. Keepmatches,cigarettes, cigars,

pipes, openflames,andsparks
awayfrom the fuel tank and fuel

container.

d. Fillfuel tankoutdoors with extreme

care. Neverfill fuel tank indoors.
Usea funnel or spout to prevent

spillage.

e. Replaceall fuel tankand container

caps securely.

f. If fuel is spilled,do not attempt to

start the engine, but move the
machine awayfrom the areaof

spillageand avoid creatingany
source of ignition until fuel vapors

havedissipated.

7. Never makeadjustmentswhen engine
is running (unlessrecommendedby

manufacturer).

Operation

1. Do not put hands or feet nearor under

rotating parts. Donot allow handsor any
other part of the bodyor clothing nearthe
rotating tines or nearanyother moving
part. Thetines beginto rotate forward

This machine meets voluntary safety standard B71.8

- 1996, which is sponsored by the Outdoor Power
Equipment Institute, Inc., and is published by the

American National Standards Institute.

WARNING

Theengineexhaustfromthis productcontains
chemicalsknowntotheStateofCaliforniatocause

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

oncethe enginestarts, the Tines/PTO
ClutchLever is in the ENGAGEposition,

the Forward Interlock Leversaresqueezed

closedand the Wheels/Tines/PTODrive
Leveris shiftedto FORWARD.Thetines
rotate in Reversewhether the Interlock

Leversare closedor open.

2. Exerciseextreme caution when on or
crossing graveldrives, walks, or roads.

Stayalert for hidden hazardsor traffic. Do
not carry passengers.

3. After striking aforeign object, stop the
engine,removethe wire from the spark

plug wire and preventit from touching the
spark plug. Thoroughly inspectthe

machinefor anydamage and repairthe
damagebefore restarting and operating

the machine.

4. Exercisecaution to avoid slipping or

falling.

5. If the unit should start to vibrate abnor-
mally,stop the engine, disconnectthe

spark plugwire and preventit from

touching the spark plug, and check imme-

diatelyfor the cause.Vibration is
generallya warning of trouble.

6. Stopthe engine,disconnect the spark
plug wire and preventit from touching the

spark plugwheneveryou leavethe
operatingposition, before unclogging the

tines, or when making any repairs,adjust-

ments or inspections.

7. Takeall possible precautionswhen
leavingmachine unattended.Stopengine.

Disconnectspark plug wire and move it

away from spark plug. Removeignition

keyon electric start models

Section1: Safety

8. Beforecleaning, repairing, or inspect-

ing, stop the engine and make certain all
moving parts havestopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and prevent it from
touching thespark plugto preventacci-
dentalstarting.

9. Theflap onthe tine hood must be
down when operatingthetiller, unless
using the Hiller/Furrowerattachment.

10. Neverusethe tiller unlessproper
guards, plates,or other safety protective
devicesare in place.

11. Donot runenginein anenclosed
area.Engineexhaustcontains carbon
monoxide gas,adeadlypoison that is

odorless, colorless, and tasteless.

12. Keepchildren and pets away.

13. Neveroperatethe tiller underengine
power if the WheelSpeedLeveris in the
FREEWHEELposition. In FREEWHEEL,

thewheels will not hold the tiller backand
the revolving tines could propel thetiller

rapidly, possibly causing lossof control.
Alwaysengagethe Wheel SpeedLeverin
either FASTor SLOWposition before
starting the engineor engaging thetines

with theWheels/Tines/PTODrive Lever.

14. Beaware thatthe tiller mayunex-
pectedlybounceupwardor jump

forwardifthe tines shouldstrike
extremelyhardpackedsoil, frozen

ground,or buried obstacleslike large
stones,roots, orstumps. If in doubt
aboutthe tilling conditions,alwaysuse
thefollowingoperatingprecautionsto
assistyouin maintainingcontrolofthe

tiller:

a. Walk behindandto oneside of the

tiller, usingonehandonthe han-
dlebars.Relax yourarm, butusea
securehandgrip.

b. Use shallowerdepthregulator

settings,workinggraduallydeeper
with eachpass.

c. Use slowerwheel, tine and engine

speeds.

d. Clearthe tilling areaof all large

stones,rootsand otherdebris.

e. Avoidusingdownwardpressureon

handlebars.If needbe, useslight
upwardpressureto keepthe tines
fromdiggingtoo deeply.

f. Beforecontactinghardpackedsoil

at the endof arow, reduceengine
speedand lift handlebarsto raise

tines outofthe soil.

g. In an emergency,stoptines and

wheels byshiftingthe
Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever

intoNEUTRAL.If youcan not

reachthe lever or havelostcontrol
ofthe tiller, let go of thehandle-

barsand all controls. Do not
attemptto restrainthetiller.

15. Do not overloadthe tiller's capacity by

attempting to till too deeply at too fast a
rate.

16. Never operatethe tiller at high
transport speedson hardorslippery

surfaces. Look behindand usecare when
backing up.

17. Do not operatethe tiller on aslope
that is too steep for safety. When on
slopes, slow downand makesure you
havegood footing. Never permit the tiller
to freewheel down slopes.

18. Neverallow bystandersnear the unit.

19. Onlyuse attachments andaccessories
that areapproved bythe manufacturerof

the tiller.

20. Usetiller attachments and acces-
sories when recommended.

21. Never operatethe tiller without good
visibility or light.

22. Never operatethe tiller if you are
tired, or under the influenceof alcohol,

drugs or medication.

23. Operatorsshall nottamper with the
engine-governorsettings on the machine;
the governor controls the maximum safe
operating speedto protect the engineand
all moving parts from damagecaused by
overspeed. Authorized serviceshall be
sought if a problem exists.

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

25. POISON/DANGER--CAUSES
SEVEREBURNS.The batteryon electric

start models contains sulfuric acid. Avoid
contact with skin, eyesor clothing. Keep

out of reach of children.

Antidotes:

External- Flushimmediately with lots of

water.

Internal- Drink largequantities of water
or milk. Followwith milk of magnesia,
beateneggs orvegetableoil. Calla

doctor immediately.

Eyes- Flushwith water for 15 minutes.
Getprompt medical attention.

26. DANGER-BATTERIESPRODUCE

EXPLOSIVEGASES. Keepsparks,flame

or smoking materialsaway. Ventilate
when charging battery or using inan
enclosed space. Alwayswear safety
goggles when working near battery.

27. Pleaseremember:You canalways
stop the tines andwheelsby releasingall
controls, or by moving the ignition switch
and/or throttle control leveronthe engine

to OFFor STOP.

28. To load or unloadthe tiller, seethe

instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.

29. Useextremecautionwhen backingor

pulling the machinetowards you.

30. Startthe enginecarefully accordingto

instructions and with feet well awayfrom
the tines.

31. Neverpick upor carry a machine
while the engineis running.

32. When loading or unloadingthe tiller,
alwaysdisengage tinesand use slower
wheel and enginethrottle speeds. Use
sturdy ramps wide and strong enoughto
easily support the tiller (280-to-325 Ibs.,
depending on model) andoperator.

Nevergo down ramps in FORWARD
drive--the tiller could tip forward,
exposing you to the tines (which should

be disengaged). Alwaysuse REVERSE
drive and backdown ramps. Togo up

ramps, useFORWARDdrive and follow
the tiller.

33. TheForward Interlock SafetySystem
should betested for correct functioning
every time thetiller or PTOpowerunit is

used. SeeSection 4 in this Manual.

34. If using the optional Dozer Blade,
either removethe tine attachment,or
disengagethe tineswith the Tines/PTO

ClutchLever. Revolvingtines are
dangerous.

Section1: Safety

MaintenanceandStorage

1. Keepthe tiller, attachmentsandacces-
sories insafe working condition.

2. Checkall nuts, bolts, andscrews at
frequent intervalsfor proper tightness to

be surethe equipment is insafe working
condition.

3. Neverstore the tiller with fuel in the
fuel tank insidea building where ignition

sources are presentsuch ashot water
and spaceheaters,furnaces, clothes
dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc.).
Allow engine to cool beforestoring in any

enclosure.

Decals

Foryour safetyand the safetyof others,
various safetyand operational decalsare
located onyour unit (Figure 1).

Keepthe decalscleanandlegibleat all
times. Contactyour local servicedealer
or the Factoryfor replacementsif any
decalsare damagedor missing.

4. To reducethe chancesof afire hazard,
keepthe enginefree of grass, leaves, or

excessivegrease.

5. Store gasolinein acool, well-ventilated

area,safely awayfrom any spark-or
flame-producing equipment. Store

gasolinein an approvedcontainer, safely

away from the reachof children.

6. Referto the Maintenancesections of

this Manualand the separateEngine

Owner's Manualfor instructions if the

tiller is to be stored for an extended

period.

A) WARNING:HotSurfaces.
Topoftheaircleanerhousing. SafetyInstructions

7. Neverperform maintenancewhile the
engine is running orthe spark plugwire is
connected, exceptwhen specifically

instructed to do so.

8. If thefuel tank hasto bedrained,do

this outdoors.

C) WARNING:Operatingand

D) PowerUnit

Referto the Parts List for decal locations,

descriptions andpart numbers.

OperatingSymbols

Varioussymbols (shown here,with word
descriptions)areusedonthetillerandengine.
Yourunitmaynothaveallofthesymbols.

• READTHEOWNER'SMANUAL.

• KNOWLOCATIONSANDFUNCTIONSOFALL CONTROLS.

• KEEPALL SAFETYDEVICESANDSHIELDSIN PLACEANDWORKING.

• NEVERALLOWCHILDRENORUNINSTRUCTEDADULTSTO OPERATETILLER.

• SHUTOFFENGINEANDDISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIRE BEFOREMANUALLYUNCLOG-

GINGTINES ORMAKINGREPAIRS.

• KEEPBYSTANDERSAWAYFROM MACHINE.

• KEEPAWAYFROMROTATINGPARTS.

• USEEXTREMECAUTIONWHENREVERSINGORPULLINGTHE MACHINETOWARDSYOU.

F) EngineStabilization.
Topof fueltank.

Figure1:LocationofSafetyand OperatingDecals.

(Briggs& Stratton engineshown)

B) WARNING:EngineIgnition.
Electricstartmodelsonly.

I I I÷I

FAST SLOW CHOKE CHOKE

STOP ON OFF

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:

ROTATING

TINES

I1

Assembly

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 operatinginstructionsin this

manual.

Introduction

Carefullyfollow these assembly stepsto
correctly prepareyour tiller for use. It is

recommendedthat you readthis Section
in its entirety beforebeginning assembly.

NOTE:Varioustiller models are presented
in this Manual. Useonly the information

appropriatefor your tiller model.

InspectUnit

Inspectthe unitand carton for damage

immediately after delivery. Contactthe
carrier (trucking company) if you find or
suspect damage. Inform them of the
damageand request instructions for filing
a claim. To protectyour rights, put your
claim inwriting and mail acopy to the
carrier within 15 days after the unit has
beendelivered. Contactusat the Factory
if you needassistance inthis matter.

STEP1: UnpackingInstructions

NOTE:Do not severelybendany of the
control cableson the unit.

1. Thetiller is heavy. Do not attemptto
remove it from the shipping platform until
instructed to do so in theseAssembly

steps.

2. Removeall unassembledpartsfrom
the carton. Thehardwarebag is included
in your literature packaging.

3. Checkthat you havethe items listed
below (contact your local dealeror the

Factory if any items are missing or
damaged).

NOTE: Usethe screw lengthtemplate
(Figure2-1) to identify screws.

LoosePartsList

Qty. Description

1 HandlebarAssembly
1 Wheels/TinesPTODriveLever

Thefollowing items

are in the hardwarebag:

2 20 oz.Bottles SAE30W Oil
1 Clutch PawlSpring

1 BeltAdjusting Tool
2 PlasticCableTies

1 CurvedHeadScrew, 1/4-20 x 2
1 FlangedLock Nut, 1/4-20
1 PanHeadScrew,#10-32 x 1/2

Thefollowing parts (electric start models
only), packagedseparately.

2 Nuts,1/4-20

(for battery terminals)

2 Screws,1/4-20 x 5/8

(for battery terminals)

2 Keys

(in ignition switch)

NOTE:LEFTand RIGHTsides of the

tiller are as viewed from the

operator's position behind the han-
dlebars(unless otherwise noted).

Tools]MaterialsNeeded

for Assembly

(1) 3/8" open-endwrench*
(2) 7/16"open-end wrench*
(2) 1/2" open-endwrench*
(1) 9/16"open-end wrench*
(1) 3/4"open-end wrench*
(1) Flatblade screwdriver
(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties)
(1) Tire pressuregauge
(1) 4-1/2" highwood block to prop unit

* Adjustable wrenchesmay be used.

Figure2-1: Toidentifylengthofscrew,

placescrewontemplateasshownand

measuredistancebetweenbottomofscrew
headandtipofscrew.

STEP 2: Attach Handlebar

IMPORTANT: When disassembling

handlebar assembly, keep left-side clamp

and ratchet separatedfrom the right-side
clamp andratchet.

1. Disassemblethe handlebarassembly.
To do this, remove the height adjustment

leverby turning the leverin a counter-

clockwise direction (Figure2-2).

2. Placethe handlebarendson either side
ofthe base,with thewire harnesstoward

the rear ofthe base(Figure2-2).

3. Installthe heightadjustment lever

through the right-side clamp, handlebar
end, ratchet, and base;then out through

the left-side ratchet, handlebarend,and
clamp (Figure2-2). Securewith nut, but

don't fully tighten.

IMPORTANT:Do notforce the height

adjustment leverthrough the handlebars.
The interlock wires may be blocking the

leverand could bedamaged.You may

gently movethe wiresaside if this
condition occurs.

6

Section2: Assembly

4. Raisehandlebarsto oneof two height

settings andtighten the heightadjustment
lever. Also, makesure all other mounting
hardware issecurely tightened.

NOTE: Fully assembledhandlebar
assembly should appearas shown in
Figure2-3.

Figure 2-3. Fully assembled handle-
bars.

STEP3: MoveTiller OffShipping
Platform

1. Setthe DepthRegulatorLever
(A, Figure2-4) to Travel position. Dothis

by lifting the tiller by the handlebars,then
pulling straight backonthe leverand

sliding down to the highest notched
setting.

2. Setthe WheelSpeedLever(B, Figure
2-4) to Freewheelposition. To do this,

move the leverapproximately halfway
betweenthe Fastand Slow settings while

you rock the tiller forward andbackward
until thewheels movefreely.

3. Lift Handlebarshighenoughto clear
tiller tines and pull backfirmly to dislodge
the tiller from the platform wheel wells.

STEP4: ConnectForward
InterlockWire Harness

1. Removeany dirt fromthe Forward

Interlock wire harnessplug (C, Figure
2-5) andits receptacle(D).

2. Connect the Forward interlock wire
harness plug (C,Figure2-5) to the recep-
tacle (D).

STEP5: Attach
WheelsiTines/PTODriveLever

1. Loosenthe bolt (Figure2-2) on the
handlebar baseand swing the handlebars
out to the right side.

Right
Clam

Height

Adjustment

Lever

FRONT
OFTILLER

Figure 2-2. Handlebar assembly.

Figure 2-4: Photo shows the Depth
Regulator Lever (A) and the Wheel

Speed Lever (B).

2. Removeboth sets of nuts, star
washers, screws, and one bushing

(A, B, C,D, E,F,G,Figure2-6) from the
yoke plates(H). There is a bushing inside
the short link (I). Becareful not to loseit
when removing screw (G).

3. Slidethe platesat the endof the
Wheels/Tines/PTOLeveroverthe yoke
plates (Figure2-9). To aid in the next
step, insert a screwtemporarily into the
forward most holes (J, Figure2-7) of the
yoke platesandthe lever.

Base

Handlebam

Base

Left
Clamp

Nut

Wire
Harness

Figure 2-5. Forward Interlock Wire
Harness connection.

4. Align the rear most holes of theyoke
platesand the Wheels/Tines/PTOLever.
Uselong nose pliersto hold the bushing
(L, Figure27) in placewhile insertingthe
screw (K)through the leverand yoke
plates.Install star washer (B, Figure2-6)

and nut (A),then handtighten.

5. Retrievethe clutch pawl spring (Figure
2-8) from hardware bag.

Section2: Assembly

Removethe temporary screw (J, Figure
2-7) from the forward holes andmove the
Wheels/Tines/PTOLeverfully forward.

Install the wider hook end of the clutch
pawl spring (M, Figure2-8) down into the

small holeat the end of the handle. Use
pliers to insert the other endinto the hole

in the long link bar (N).
NOTE:Do not bend or over stretch the
spring while installing.

6. Pull the Wheels/Tines/PTOLeverback
to align the forward most holes (Q,Figure

2-9) inthe yoke platewith the holes in the
lever plates. Also alignthe bushing that is
insidethe short link bar (P). Install the
screw, starwasher, and nut, then tighten
securely.

Securelytighten allother hardware(Q,R,
Figure2-9). Alsoensure that the spring
(S) is properly seatedat both ends.

Completedassembly should appearas
illustrated in Figure2-9.

7. Testthe operation of the
Wheels/Tines/PTOLever. Pushthe lever

down until it engages in the Forward

position. The clutch roller (T, Figure2-

10) must rest beneaththe adjustment
block (U). Next,move the lever upto the
Neutral position. Theclutch roller (T,

Figure2-11) should rest on theface of the
adjustment block (U). To test Reverse,lift
and holdthe leverall the way up in

Reverseposition, then let it go. Thelever

should automatically return to the Neutral

position (Figure2-11). If not, do not use
the tiller. Seeyour localauthorized dealer

or call the FactoryTechnicalService

Departmentfor instructions.

Figure 2-9: Fully assembled

Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever assembly.

Figure 2-6: Illustration shows the yoke plates (H), nuts, washers, and
screws (A, E, B, F, D, G), bushing (C), and long and short links (I, J).

Figure 2-7: Drive Lever assembly.

Figure 2-8: Clutch pawl spring. Tilt

WheelsiTinesiPTO Lever fully

forward before installing spring.

Figure 2-10 Forward position; roller
(T) rests under the adjustment
block (U).

Figure 2-11: Neutral position; roller
(7) rests against middle area of the
adjustment block (U).

STEP6: CheckGearOilLevels

Your tiller hastwo separatetransmis-

sions: one for the PowerUnit (Figure 2-

12), the otherfor the Tine Attachment

(Figure2-13). Both transmissions were
filled atthe factory with SAE#85W-140
weight gearoil (with anA.P.I rating of

GL-4). Checklevelin both transmis-

sions to verify that they are still correct.

SeeSection 5, TransmissionGearOil

Maintenancefor complete information

on howto check andfill the transmis-

sions.

Section2: Assembly

IMPORTANT: Checkgearoil level in both

transmissions after the first 2 hours of

new tiller operation, then every 30
operating hours thereafter. SeeSection 5

for instructions.

OilLevel Hole

Figure 2-12: Checking oil level on
Power Unit Transmission.

Figure 2-13: Checking oil level on
Tine Attachment Transmission.

STEP7: AddMotor0il to Engine

1. Beforeadding motor oil, park thetiller

on levelground. Levelthe engineby
placinga sturdy block under thetines or

the tines depth regulator bar.

2. Referto the EngineOwner's Manual
provided with your tiller for detailed infor-

mation onhow to add motor oil andfor
motor oil specifications.

IMPORTANT:Two 20 oz. bottles of motor
oil are included with your tiller. Checkthe

oil level as instructed in the Engine
Owner's Manual provided with your tiller

BEFOREpouring the full amount of each
bottle into the engine.

IMPORTANT:

• Change engine oil after first 2 hours of

newoperation.

• Check engine oil levelevery 5 hours of
operation or eachuse.

STEP8: AttachEngineThrottle
LeverandCable

Forshipping purposes, the throttle cable,
together with the throttle lever, is wound

around the engine. Carefully unwindthe
cable. If the throttle control label is

coveredwith a clear protectivecoating,
peel it off.

To avoid electric shock from a short
circuit (electric starttillers only), never

allow the throttle cable to touch the
battery. Routecable belowthe battery,

onthe outsideof thebatteryholder.

To attachthe throttle leverandcable:

1. Runthethrottle cableup the inside
edge of the right handlebarand position

the leverasshown in Figure2-14.

2. Fromthe outside of the handlebar,
insert the curved headscrew (A, Figure 2-

14), through the handlebarand the center
hole inthe throttle levermounting

bracket.

3. Looselyinstallthe flanged lock nut
and movethe throttle leverbackto the

STOPposition.

4. Fromthe lever side of the bracket,
threada pan headscrew (B, Figure2-14)

through the small hole in the throttle lever
bracketand intothe handlebar. Tighten
the screw securely.

5. Securelytighten boththe flanged lock
nut and the curved headscrew.

6. Usetwo plastic tiesto securethe
throttlecableto the right handlebarin two

places (Figure2-15). Loop eachtie
around the handlebarand cable (serrated
sidefaces in) and pull the ties tight. Trim

the ends.

B

Figure2-14: Engine ThrottleLever

position and installation.

Figure 2-15: Plastic Ties placement
on handlebars.

STEP9: Adjust Air Pressure in

Tires

Forshipping purposes,the tires may be
overinflated. Checkthe air pressurein
eachtire andadjust them to between10

and 20 pounds persquare inch. You

must inflate eachtire to equalair
pressuresto preventthe tiller from pulling

to one side.

Assembly is complete for recoilstart
tillers. SeeAssembling TheElectric

Start Systemif you own anelectric
start tiller; otherwise, refer to Section
3, Controlsfor information on tiller

controls.

Section2: Assembly

ASSEMBLINGTHEELECTRICSTARTSYSTEM

Thefollowing steps explain howto install and chargethe batteryon electric start tillers. For your safety,follow all steps and observe
all accompanyingsafety messages. Section 5 contains othergeneralbattery maintenanceand recharginginstructions.

1. Usea 5/8" long screw (K,Figure2-18)
and 1/4-20 hexnut (L) to connect the

Batteryproducesexplosivegases.
*Keep away sparks, flames, and

cigarettes.

. Ventilate area whenchargingor using

batteryin anenclosedspace.

. Make surebatteryvent tube is always

openafter batteryis filled with acid.

Remove metal jewelry before working
near the battery or near the electrical
system. Failureto complymay cause a
short circuit, resulting in electrical
burns, a shock, or battery gas
explosion.

positive (+) batterycable(B)to the
positive (marked +) battery post (C).

Make surethat this is the cableonthe left
side, with oneend attachedto the

solenoid (D).

2. Slidethe black rubber boot (E) com-
pletely over the battery postandcable

connector.

3. Usea 5/8" long screw and 1/4-20 hex
nut to connect the negative (-) battery
cable (F)to the negative(marked -)
battery post (G) andsecurewith screw
(H) and nut (I).

4. Slidethe black rubber boot (J) com-
pletely over the battery postandcable

connector.

To Avoid Personal Injury or Property

Damage:

* Do not touch positive batteryterminal

and any surrounding metal objects
with tools, jewelry or other metal

items. Failure to complycould cause
a short circuit leading to electrical
burnsor explosionof batterygases.

* Neverbringa gascannearthe positive

(+) battery terminal. A short circuit
could occurleading to an explosionof
the gasoline or the battery gases.
Always fill the engine fuel tank from
thefront or sideof theengine.

NOTE:Ifthe battery is put into

serviceafter the dateshown onthe
top of the battery, chargefor a

minimum of one hour at 6-10

amps. Referto the Maintenence
section of this manualfor more

detailedinstructions regarding

proper batterycharging procedure

STEP1: Connectthe Wire
HarnessReceptacle

1. Beforeinstalling the battery and its
hold-down clamp, insert the plastic wire

harness receptacle(A, Figure2-18) into
the prongs of the keyswitch (M)located

on the hold-down clamp.

2. Removethe ignition keysfrom the
keyswitch andstore them safely away.

Do not insertthe key into the keyswitch
until you complete this section andread

Section 3, Controls.

STEP 2: Install the

BatteryCables

NOTE:The cableterminals should be
toward the rear (keyswitchside) of the

battery posts.

Assembly is complete for electric start
tillers. SeeSection 3, Controlsfor
information on tiller controls.

K

Never jump start the battery with a

vehicle battery or chargingsystem. This

may produce a battery explosion,
causingacid orelectrical burns.

G(-)

J

10

Figure 2-18: Battery cable assembly.

n

FeaturesandControls

Before operating your machine,
carefully read and understand all
safety, controls, operating instructions
in this Manual, the separate Engine

Owner's Manual and on the decals on
themachine.

Failure to follow these instructionscan
resultin seriouspersonalinjury.

Introduction

This section describesthe location and
function of the controls and features on

your tiller. Referto Section 4, Operation
for detailedoperating instructions.

Practice usingthesecontrols, with the
engine shut off, until you completely
understand the operation of the controls

and feelconfident with eachof them.
IMPORTANT:Referto the separateengine

manufacturer's Engine Owner's Manual
for information about the controls on the

engine.
NOTE:All referencesto left,right, front

and rearof themachineare basedon a
position behindthe handlebarsandfacing

forward.

PTOAttachmentsFeature

In addition to powerfultilling capability,
you canquickly convert your machine
into a PTO(Power Take-Off)PowerUnit
that iscapableof towing or powering

various TROY-BILTattachments.
You canaccessthis capability by

removing the tines attachment (powered
by the PTOPower Unit). The PTOPower

Unit isthen availablefor engine powered
attachments,or for pulling ortowing non-

poweredattachments. SeeSection 4,
PTOPower Unitfor detailedinformation

on installingand operating TROY-BILT
PTOattachments.

WheelsiTines/PTODriveLever

Usethe Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever(A,
Figure3-1) to engageand disengage

powerto the transmission.

Figure 3-1:

A- Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever

B- Forward Interlock Levers
C- Wheel Speed Lever

D- Tines/PTO Clutch Lever

This leverhasthree operatingpositions:
FORWARD,NEUTRALand REVERSE.

FORWARDisengagedwhen the leveris
moved down until the clutch roller (G,

Figure3-2) engagesinto the detent
position underthe adjustment block (H,
Figure3-2). You will definitely feelthe
leverengageinto this position.

Usethe FORWARDsetting to movethe
wheels andtines forward, orto apply
power to anoptional PTO(PowerTake
Off) attachment. (Seealso Forward

Interlock Levers.)

To stop the wheels, tines orany PTO
attachment,movetheleverto NEUTRAL

by tapping the leverupwards (Figure
3-3) and releasing.

• REVERSEis engagedwhen the lever is
pushed(with an openpalm)all the way

up and heldin that position (Figure3-4).
Usethis setting to movethe wheels in
reverse. To stop moving inreverse,
releasethe lever;it automatically returns

to the NEUTRALposition.

zG

E- Depth Regulator Lever
F- Handlebar Height Adjustment Lever

G- Engine Throttle Lever

IMPORTANT: Do not operatethe tines or

any PTOattachment in REVERSE.

• NEUTRALis this control's normal non-
operating position. Thelever returns to

NEUTRALwhen it is tappedout of the
FORWARDposition or releasedfrom the

REVERSEposition. NEUTRALposition

is betweenFORWARDand REVERSE
(Figure3-3). Usethis setting to stop

the wheels,tinesor any PTOattach-
ment.

IMPORTANT: Always shift to NEUTRAL
before starting the engine or before
engaging the wheels, tines or any PTO

attachment.

Forward Interlock Levers

The Forward Interlock Levers (B,

Figure3-1) are attachedundereach
handlebargrip.

You must squeezeat least one of these

interlock levers up against the handlebar
grip wheneverthe Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Leveris engagedin FORWARD
position.

11

Section3: FeaturesandControls

Figure 3-2: FORWARD posiUon;roller
(G)rests under lhe adj_t block (H_

Figure 3-3: NEUTRAL position; roller
(G) rests against middle area of the ad-

justment block (H).

Figure 3-4: REVERSE position; roller
(G) rests against upper area ofthe ad-

justment block (H).

12

If both Forward Interlock Leversare

releasedbefore first returning the
Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever to

NEUTRAL,the enginewill stop.
IMPORTANT: The Forward Interlock

Levers are a safety control that stops the
engine should you lose control while
going forward and cannot shift into

NEUTRAL.

Wheel Speed Lever

Usethe Wheel SpeedLever (C,Fig.3-1)
to selectone of threeoperating positions:
SLOW,FASTor FREEWHEEL.

- SLOW- Levermovedall the waydown.
Most effectivefor normaltilling or for

low-speedtransport.

., FAST- Levermovedall theway up.

Most effectivefor cultivatingorfor fast-
speedtransport.

- FREEWHEEL- Leverin betweenSLOW
and FAST(wheelswill roll freely). Used

whentransporting the machineon level
groundwithout enginepower,andwhen
usingstationaryPTOattachments.

IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission
damage, always move Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever into NEUTRALbefore shifting

the WheelSpeedLever.
IMPORTANT: When shifting into SLOW

or FAST, gently roll the machine forward
or backward to help fully engage the

wheel gears. When engaged,the wheels
will not turn unless the engine is running

and the Wheels/Tines/PT0 Drive Lever is
engagedin FORWARDor REVERSE.

Tines/PTOClutchLever

Usethis lever(D, Figure3-1) to engageor
disengagepower fromthe transmission

PTOclutchto the tinesor any PTOattach-

ment. Thiscontrol hastwo operating
positions: ENGAGEand DISENGAGE.

- ENGAGE- Levermovedintodetentslot
farthestfrom engine. Usethis positionto

operatetinesor otherPTOattachments.
Aftershifting to ENGAGE,brieflyoperate
machinein FORWARDto helpfully
engagethe PTOclutch.

• DISENGAGE- Lever movedinto detent
slot nearestengine. Usethis positionto

disengagepowertotines or otherPTO
attachmentsbeforetransporting, loading,

turning, oroperatingin reverse.

IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission

damage, always move the Wheels/Tines/

PTO Drive Lever into NEUTRAL before

shifting the Tines/PTOClutch Lever.

DepthRegulatorLever

Usethis lever(E, Figure3-1) to regulate
the tilling depth of the tines. This control
also hasaTRAVELposition, which
enablestransport with thetines off the
ground.

To operatethe lever, lift up on the handle-

bars, pull the DepthRegulatorLever
straight back,and then slide it up or down

to one of the eightdetent heightsettings.
Theeight detent positions offer a range of

tine heightsettings. This enablesyou to
select the heightthat is most effectivefor

a particularcondition. The top detent

position is theTRAVELsetting. Usethe
second orthird detentfrom the top for

shallow tilling andcultivating. Usethe

otherdetents for deepertilling and for

powercomposting.

To avoid personal injury,
always place the tines in the TRAVEL
position before starting the engine.
This preventsthe tines from touching
the grounduntil youare ready to begin
tilling.

HandlebarHeightAdjustment

Lever

Usethis lever(F, Figure3-1) to adjust the

handlebarsto oneof two heightsettings.

1. Tochangetheheight,hold the handle-

barswith one handand loosenthe leverin
a counterclockwisedirection.

2. Movethe handlebarsto oneof the two

presetheightsettings.

3. Retightenthe lever.

NOTE:You can swapthe positions of the

inside handlebarratchetsto change the
two presetsettings by approximately four

inches higheror lower. SeeSection 2,

Step2: Attach Handlebarfor detailed
assembly information.

The tiller handlebarscan be swungout
30°to the rightside for use onlywith the
PTOChipper/Shredderattachment. This

is doneby looseningthe mountingbolt
on the handlebarbase. Never operate
yourtiller orattachments,otherthanthe
PTO Chipper/Shredder,with the handle-
bars in the right side position. Doingso
could result in unsafe handling and
personalinjury.

EngineThrottleLever

Usethe throttle lever(G, Figure3-1) to
adjust enginespeedaswell asto start
and stopthe engine.

Move the leverawayfrom the STOP
position before starting the engine.
Enginespeedsare variableand range

betweenthe FASTand SLOW. Usethe
STOPposition to turn the engineoff.

NOTE: A secondarythrottle leveris
located onthe front of the 8HPandIOHP

engines. AseparateOn/Offsw_chmay
alsobeavailableontheengine. (See
EngineOwner'sManualfor information.)

KeyswitchStarter

Thekeyswitch starter on electricstart
models (A, Figure3-5) hasthree
positions: OFF,RUNand START.Turn
the keyto STARTto start the engine.
Releasethe keyand

it will returnto the
RUNposition. Turn

the keyto OFFto
stop the engine.
(Anotherway to
stop the engine is to
move the engine

throttle leverto the Figure 3-5
STOPposition.)

Section3: FeaturesandControls

Engine Controls

Referto the engine manufacturer's Engine
Owner's Manual (included inthe tiller lit-
erature package)to identify the controls
on your engine.

IMPORTANT:An engine On/Offswitch, a
secondary throttle control, a choke lever
and a fuel line shut-off control may be
located on the engine. Refer to your
Engine Owner's Manual for detailed

information.

To avoid serious personal injury or

damageto equipment, do not startyour
engine at thistime. Complete starting

instructionsare describedin Section4,

Operation.

13

n

Op

Before operating your machine,
carefully read andunderstandall safety
(Section 1), controls (Section 3) and
operating instructions (Section 4) in
this Manual, in the separate Engine

Owner's Manual, and on the decals on
the machine.

Failureto follow these instructionscan

resultin seriouspersonalinjury.

ration

INTRODUCTION

Readthis Section ofthe manual
thoroughly before you start the engine.
Then,take the time to familiarizeyourself

with the basic operation of the tiller

beforeusing it inyour garden. Find an
open, levelareaandpractice usingthe

tiller controls without the tines engaging
the soil (put tines inTravelsetting--

Section 3, DepthRegulator Lever). Only
after you've becomecompletelyfamiliar

with the tiller should you beginusing it in
the garden.

Your tiller and its optional PTO Power
Unit attachments are capable of
causing serious injury to untrained or
carelessoperators.

To avoid serious personal injury or
property damage, read the Owner's

Manual that is provided with any
optional accessories or attachments

before using the tiller or PTO Power
Unit.

Break-InOperation

Perform the following maintenanceduring
thefirst hours of new operation (see
MaintenanceSection in this Manualand

maintenanceinformation inthe Engine
Owner's Manual).

1. Changeengine oil afterfirst 2 hours of
newengine operation.

Figure: 4-1

2. After the first 2 hours of new
operation, checkthe gearoil levels inthe

PTOPower Unitandthe tine attachment

transmissions.

3. Checkfor loose or missing hardware
on unit. Tighten or replaceas needed.

4. Checktension on forward drive belt
after first 2 hours of operation.

StartingandStoppingthe Engine

Thefollowing stepsdescribehow to start
and stopthe engine.

IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to engage
the tines, wheels, or any PTOattachment

until you have read all of the operating
instructions in this Section. Also review

the safety rules in Section 1, Safety and
the tiller and engine controls information

in Section3, Featuresand Controls.

Pre-StartChecklist

Make thefollowing checks and perform
the following services before starting the

engine.

1. Readthe Safetyand ControlsSections
in this Manual. Readthe separate Engine

Owner's Manual provided by the engine
manufacturer.

2. Checkunit for looseor missing
hardware. Serviceas required.

3. Checkengine oil level. SeeEngine
Owner's Manual.

4. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTODrivelever
(Figure4-2) into NEUTRALposition. See

Section3, Controlsfor more information
on this lever.

5. CheckSafety Guards. All guards and

covers must besecurely in place.

6. Checkair cleaner. SeeEngineOwner's
Manual.

7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.

8. CheckEngineCooling System. Clear

cooling fins andair intake screen of
debris.

9. Select High/Low Belt Speedrange.

10. Adjust HandlebarHeight.

11. Fillthe fueltank with gasolinein

accordancewith the directions in the
separate EngineOwner's Manual. Follow

all instructions andsafetyrules carefully.

GASOLINEIS HIGHLYFLAMMABLEAND
ITS VAPORSAREEXPLOSIVE.

Follow gasoline safety rules in this
Manual (Section 1) and in the separate

EngineOwner'sManual.
Failureto followgasolinesafety instruc-

tions can result in serious personal
injuryandpropertydamage.

14

RecoilStartRope
(atfrontofengine)

Wheels/Tines/PTO

DriveLever

Tines/PTO

Figure 4-2." Tiller and engine controls.

Section4: Operation

EngineThrottle

Lever

\

_ Forward

J

Depth

InterlockLevers

Regulator
Lever

Startingthe Engine:

To help prevent serious
personalinjury or damagetoequipment:

• Always place Wheels/Tines/PTODrive

Lever into NEUTRAL before starting
engine, and before engaging wheels,

tinesor otherPTO-drivenattachments.

• Never run engine indoors or in

enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas.

• Avoid engine muffler and nearby

areas. Temperatures in these areas
mayexceed150OF.

1. With the engineoff, placethe

Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever (Figure
4-2) in the NEUTRALposition. If inthe
FORWARDposition, tap the lever sharply
upward, it should automatically moveinto
NEUTRALposition.

2. Putthe DepthRegulator Leverinthe
Travel position (leverall the way down)
so that the tines are off the ground. To do
this, lift uponthe handlebars,pull the
lever (Figure4-2) back,andpush it down
all the way to the top detent (notched)
position.

3. Move theWheel SpeedLever(Figure
4-2) to eitherthe SLOWor FASTposition.
Besureto roll the wheelswhile shifting the
leveruntil thewheelsengage.

NOTE:If usingaPTOstationary attach-
ment, movetheWheelSpeedLeverinto

FREEWHEELand block thewheelsto
preventthe equipmentfrom moving(Figure

4-29 onpage29).

4. MovetheTines/PTOClutchLeverinto
DISENGAGEposition(Figure4-2).

NOTE:Usethe ENGAGEpositionifyouwant
thetinesto revolveor toapplypowertoa

PTO-drivenstationaryattachment.

5. If engineis equippedwith afuel valve,
turn valveto OPENposition as instructed
in theseparate EngineOwner's Manual.

6. If engineis equippedwith an ON/OFF
switch, move theswitch to ON.

7. Move engine throttle lever(Figure 4-2)
awayfrom STOP.

8. Chokeor prime engine asinstructed in
the separateEngineOwner's Manual.

9. If not equipped with anelectric start
system, placeone handon thefuel tank to
stabilizethe unit when you pull the recoil
starter rope. Usethe recoil starter rope to
start the engineas instructedin the
separateEngineOwner's Manual.

10. If equipped with anelectric start
system,turn keyto STARTpositionto crank
enginethen releasewhenenginestarts. If

theenginedoesnotstart rightaway,donot

holdkeyatSTARTfor morethan afew
seconds.Releasethentry againaftera short
pause.Damageto startermotorcanoccurif
itis crankedmorethan15secondsper

minute.

11. Iftheenginedoesnotstart aftera
numberoftries,refertothe EngineOwner's

Manualforspecificinstructions.

12. Whenenginestarts, move theThrottle
Leverto the SLOWposition andthen
graduallymovechoke lever(on enginesso

equipped)to OFFor RUNposition.

13. Movethe throttle speed control to
FASTsettingwhen tilling.

Starting Electric Start Engines

with the Recoil Starter Rope

You may,at some point, haveto start an

electricstart enginewith the recoil starter
rope. Beforeattempting to do so,

perform the following applicablesteps:

• If you suspectthe battery chargeis
weak,and there is novisible damage.

Disconnectcables from batteryand
cleanboth cableterminals, andthe
battery posts inaccordance with the
instructions providedin Section 5,

BatteryCareand Maintenance.

15

Section4: Operation

Reconnectthe cables andsecurely
tighten to batteryposts. Theenginewill
rechargethe battery if the battery is still
good.

• If you suspectthe batter is "dead", or if
the batteryis damaged,disconnect, and

remove it. Haveit checkedby a
qualifiedtechnician.

• If battery has beenremoved,wrap cable
terminals atend of positive cablewith

electricaltape andsecurethecableto

the batterybracket. This will prevent

electricaldischarge.

• Before pulling the recoil starter rope,
turn the keyswitch to the RUNposition.

Move theThrottle Lever awayfrom
STOPposition and set the chokeas

applicable. SeeEngineOwner's Manual.

Stopping the Engine and Tiller

1. Tostop the wheelsand tines, movethe

Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever into

NEUTRALposition andthen releaseboth
ForwardInterlock Levers.

16

2. Move the engineThrottle Leverto the
STOPposition. Thenonelectric start
models, turn the keyto OFF. Removethe
key for safekeeping.

NOTE: Theenginemayhavea separate
Throttle Control Leverand ON/OFFswitch

on the engine. Thesecontrols can also be
usedto stop the engine. Seethe Engine
Owner's manualfor information specific
to your engine.

Operating the Tiller

Whenfirst practicing,keeptheTines/PTO
ClutchLeverin DISENGAGEpositionand
theWheelSpeedLeverinSLOWposition.

To avoid serious personal injury or

damageto equipment:

• Alwaysplace Wheels/Tines/PTODrive
Lever in NEUTRAL before starting
engine, and before engagingwheels,

tinesor otherPTOattachments.

• Be sure thereare no obstaclesbehind
youbeforemovingin reverse.

• Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever should
automatically return to NEUTRAL

when released from REVERSE
position. If it doesnot, movelever to

NEUTRALmanually and discontinue
use until you adjust the lever. See

Section 5, Checking and Adjusting

ReverseDrive System.

• No reverse motion should occur if
Wheels/Tines/PTODrive Lever is not
held up in REVERSE. SeeSection 5,

Checking and Adjusting Reverse
Drive System for adjustment steps.

Do not use tiller unless properly
adjusted.

• Alwaysreturn to NEUTRALand let all
motion stop before shifting to

FORWARDor REVERSE.

Thefollowing pagesprovide guidelines
for using your tiller effectivelyandsafely
in variousgardening applications. Be
sure to read Tilling Tips& Techniques,in
this Section, beforeyou actually putthe

tines into the soil.
This isa traditional standard-rotating-tine

(SRT) tiller with forward rotating tines. It
operates inacompletelydifferent manner
than counter-rotating-tine (CRT)tillers, or

from front-tine tillers.

Movingthe Tiller ForwardandTilling

1. Start the engine and gradually increase
engine speedto FAST(see Startingthe

Engine,this Section).

The ForwardInterlock Safety System is
designedfor the operator'ssafety. Do
not disconnector attempt to defeat the
purpose of the system. If the system
malfunctions,immediately contactyour

local authorized dealer or the
TROY-BILT Technical Service Depart-

ment for assistance. Do not use the
tiller or the PTO power unit until the

Forward Interlock Safety System is
functioning properly. Always test the
system before using the tiller or PTO
powerunit.

2. Testthe ForwardInterlock Safety

System. See TestingForward Interlock
System,this Section.

Keepaway fromrotatingtines. Rotating

tineswill causeinjury.

3. When practicing, setthe Depth

Regulator Leverto Travel position.
Otherwise,set the Depth Regulator Lever

to a desireddepth.

4. Move Tines/PTOClutch Leverto
ENGAGEposition if you want the tines to

turn. If practicing, leavein DISENGAGE.

IMPORTANT: Do not move Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever to ENGAGE unless

Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is in

NEUTRAL.Tiller damagemay occur!

5. To movethe tiller forward andengage

the tines,squeezeandholdeither Forward

Interlock Lever(Figure4-3)againstthe
handlebargrip, thenmove the

Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLeverdownto

FORWARDposition.

Figure 4-3: Moving tiller forward:
squeeze one Forward Interlock Lever

and then move Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever down to FORWARD.

6. Whenthe tiller movesforward, relax
and let thewheels power thetiller along

while thetines dig. Walk behindand to
one sideof the tiller. Walk on the side

that is not yet tilled (Figure4-4). Usea

firm grip on the handlebarsbut keepyour

arm relaxed.
IMPORTANT: Letthe tiller move aheadat

its own pace. Do not push it ahead--this
reduces operator control and tilling effi-
ciency. Do not push handlebars down in
an attempt to dig deeper-- this takes
weight off the wheels, reduces traction,
and causes the tines to try to propel the

tiller.

StoppingForwardMotionandTines

1. Tostop forward motion, tap

Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever upward
into NEUTRAL.Then releasethe Forward

Interlock Levers. Thewheels and tines
will stop and the engine will continue

running.

2. In an emergency,releaseall of the
control levers. Thisstops forward motion
and shuts-off the engine.

To Help Avoid Personal Injury or
Damageto Equipment:

• Be sure no obstaclesare behindyou
beforeoperatingthe tiller in REVERSE.

• Disengagethe tines, reduce engine
speed, and move the Wheel Speed
Lever to SLOW position before
operating in REVERSE. Avoid using
FAST wheel speed until you are
familiar withbackingthe tiller.

Figure 4-4: Guide tiller with one hand.

Moving the Tiller in Reverse
IMPORTANT: Do not till while in

REVERSE.

1. Shift theTines/Wheels/PTODriveLever
(Figure4-2) into NEUTRALand movethe

WheelSpeedLever to the SLOW position.

2. Move Tines/PTOClutch Lever(Figure
4-2) into DISENGAGEposition.

3. Verify that the area behindyou is clear.

4. Lift upthe handlebarsuntil the tines

are off theground, thenshift the
Wheels/Tines/PTODriveLever allthe way
up and hold. You do not needto squeeze

the Forward Interlock Leversto use
mve_e.

5. Theunit immediatelyengagesin
reverse. Periodicallycheck behindyou
while holding the handlebarsupandthe
Wheels/Tines/PTOLeverin its upper-most
position.

Stopping Reverse Motion

Releasethe Wheels/Tines/PTODrive
Lever- the lever automatically returns to
the NEUTRALposition. This stops the

wheels immediately.(TheForward

Interlock Leverswill notstop REVERSE
motion.)

ToStopthe Engine

Move the engineThrottle Leverto the
STOPposition. Then, on electric start

models, turn keyto OFF. Removethe key
for safekeeping.

Section4: Operation

MakingTurns

Turningthe tiller is easyand just requires

practice. First find the balance point
betweenthe engine and thetines by lifting
upthe handlebars(Figure4-5). Onceyou

find the balancepoint, then letthe

poweredwheelsdo theturning as you
pushsidewayson the handlebarsin the

direction of theturn. Practice theturning

maneuverdescribed herein alarge open
area. Oncecomfortableturning the tiller,
you canthen take it to the gardenarea.

1. Atthe endof a row, movethe Wheels/
Tines/PTODrive Lever(Figure4-2)to

NEUTRALpositionand reducethe engine
speed.

2. Move the Tines/PTOClutch Lever

(Figure4-2) into the DISENGAGE

position.

3. Resumeforward operation, and lift

handlebarsuntil tines are off theground

(Figure4-5). Findthe balancepoint

betweenthe engine and thetines. Then

pushthe handlebarsin the direction of the
turn. Be very careful to keepfeetandlegs

away fromthe tines (which should bedis-

engaged). Letthe poweredwheels do the

hardwork. The insidewheelwill pivotin

placewhile the outsidewheel drives the

tiller around inthe direction ofthe turn.

Figure 4-5: Turning the tiller.

NOTE:Use REVERSEif necessaryto turn

in alimited space.

17

Section4: Operation

4. Whenthe turn is complete,shift to

NEUTRALand lowerthe handlebars.
Move Tines/PTOClutch Leverbackto
ENGAGEposition and resumeforward

operation.

Transporting The Tiller Around
Your Property

When the engineis running, thetiller's

poweredwheels make moving the tiller to

and from the gardeneasy. If the engine is

not running set the WheelSpeedLever to
FREEWHEELposition to roll the tiller to

another location.

To help avoid personal injury from
revolving tines, always put the

Tines/PTOClutch Lever in DISENGAGE
positionbeforetransporting,loading,or
unloadingUiler.

1. Placethe Tines/PTOClutch Leverin
DISENGAGEposition.

2. MoveDepthRegulatorLeverdownall the

way intotheTravelsetting.

3. If using enginepower, moveWheel
SpeedLeverto either SLOWor FAST,and

usethe Wheels/Tines/PTODrive Leverto
drivethe wheels.

4. If theengine is stopped, moveWheel
SpeedLeverto FREEWHEEL,and
manually push tiller.

Testing the Forward
Interlock SafetySystem

The Forward Interlock SafetySystem is

designedto shut thetiller engine off
immediately if you losecontrol and
cannot stop moving FORWARDby

shifting theWheels/Tines/PTODrive Lever
into NEUTRAL. Whenyou releaseboth

Forward Interlock Levers,they send
ground to the ignition system thereby
stopping theengine. Squeezingoneor
both levers up against the handlebars
enablesthe ignition system;therefore,

you must squeezeat leastone lever
whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTODrive

Leveris engagedin FORWARD.
IMPORTANT: The interlock system also

prevents the engine from starting if the

Wheels/Tines/PTODrive Lever is engaged

in FORWARD.

18

The ForwardInterlockSafetySystem is
designedfor the operator's safety. Do
not disconnector attempt to defeat the
purpose of the system, if the system
malfunctions, immediately contactyour

local authorized dealer or the
TROY-BILT Technical Service Depart-

ment for assistance. Do not use the
tiller or the PTO power unit until the

Forward Interlock Safety System is
functioning properly. Always test the
system before using the tiller or PTO
powerunit.

HowtoCheckthe Interlock System

The Forward Interlock System hasan
electro-mechanicaldesign, and so is
subject to normal wearand possiblemal-
function. Checkthe system for proper

operationeach time prior to using the

tiller or PTOpower unit.

Figure 4-6: Plug and receptacle of
Forward Interlock Safety System
must be securely connected.

To test the ForwardInterlockSystem:

1. Movetiller outside to levelground.
Removeany obstacles.

2. Checkthat the ForwardInterlockwire
harnessplug, at the bottom ofthe handle-

bars (Figure4-6), is securelyconnected

to the receptacleon the top, right sideof
the transmission.

3. MoveWheel SpeedLever(Figure4-2)

to SLOWposition and moveTines/PTO

ClutchLever to DISENGAGE.

4. Start engine asdescribed under
Starting andStopping the Engine,in this

section. Setengine throttle lever to
SLOW,and let enginewarm up.

5. Squeezeand hold just one of the

Forward Interlock Leversagainst the
handlebargrip while movingthe Wheels/

Tines/PTO DriveLever down to
FORWARD(Figure4-3). As the tiller

movesforward, releasethe ForwardInter-
lock Leverbriefly. The engineshould

start to stall out if the interlock system is
working properly. If it does start tostall,
quickly squeezethe lever up againstthe
handlebargrip, andthen return the

Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Leverto
NEUTRAL. Repeatthis test to checkthat

the engine beginsto stall out when the
other ForwardInterlock Leveris released.

6. If the enginedoes not beginto shut off

when either ForwardInterlock leveris
released,shut theengine off, removethe

key (if electric start), and donotoperate
the tiller or PTOpowerunituntil the

systemhasbeenrepaired and isfunc-
tioningproperly.

IMPORTANT:To avoid possible damage

to the ForwardInterlock Safetysystem,
do not use high-pressure sprays nearthe
wire harnessreceptacleor neutralplunger
assembly.

Loading and Unloading the Tiller

Thefollowing provides information on
tiller loading, unloading, andrequirements
before loading and unloading the tiller.

Readthe following instructions carefully

beforeattempting to load or unloadyour
tiller.

BeforeLoadingorUnloadingthe
Tiller

• Ramps must be strong enoughto

support the combined weight of thetiller
and handlers.Theyshould providegood

traction to prevent slipping; they should

haveside railsto guide thetiller along

the ramps;and they should havea

locking deviceto securethemto the
vehicle.

• Handlersshould wear sturdy footwear

that will helpto preventslipping.

Section4: Operation

• Turnthe vehicle's engineoff and apply
its parkingbrake.

• Positionthe loading vehicleso that the

ramp angle isas flat aspossible (the
less incline to the ramp,the better).

Loadingthe Tiller

1. Use loading rampsthat arestrong and

wide enough to safely holdthe weight of
the tiller andthe operator combined--
your tiller weighs between280 and 325

Ibs.

2. Move the Tines/PTOClutch Lever

(Figure4-2) into DISENGAGEposition.

3. Setthe DepthRegulatorlever (Figure

4-2) to the Travel position.

4. Move WheelSpeedLever (Figure4-2)

into SLOWposition and reducethe
enginethrottle speed.

5. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTOLever

(Figure4-2) into FORWARDposition and
follow the tiller up the ramps (Figure4-7).
Checkthe wheelsas you move the tiller
forward. Ensurethat they moveupthe
center of eachramp.

6. Preventtiller from rolling in vehicle.

LeaveWheel SpeedLeverin FASTor
SLOWposition, chock wheels with blocks

and tie down the tiller.

Figure 4-7: To go up ramps, use
FORWARD drive.

Unloading the Tiller
IMPORTANT:Neverunload thetiller in

FORWARDdrive. Thetiller could tip
forward andexposeyou to the tines

(which should bedisengagedas
instructed).

1. Use loading rampsthat arestrong and

wide enough to safely holdthe weight of
the tiller andthe operator combined--

your tiller weighs between280 and 325
Ibs.

2. Move the Tines/PTOClutch Lever
(Figure 4-2) to DISENGAGEposition.

3. Setthe DepthRegulatorLever (Figure
4-2) to the Travel position.

4. Move WheelSpeedLever (Figure4-2)
to SLOWposition and reducethe engine
throttle speed.

IMPORTANT: Look behind you before
you backdown the ramp to ensurethat all
is clear. While descending, keepchecking
for obstacles behindyou.

5. Move and holdthe Wheels/Tines/PT0
Lever into REVERSEdrive and backdown
the ramps (Figure4-8). Checkthewheels

asyou move the tiller backward. Ensure
that they movedown the center of each
ramp.

Figure 4-8: TOgo down ramps, use
REVERSE drive.

Changing Speed Belts

Your tiller hastwo belt-driven speed
ranges- HIGH RANGEand LOWRANGE

- you pick one or the other by deciding
which setof pulleygrooves to movethe
forward belt into. Bymoving the belt
from onespeed rangeinto the other, in

combination with the FASTand SLOW
wheel speeds,you obtain a choice of four

different forward wheel speedsandtwo
different tine speeds.

To help avoid serious personal injury,
stop the engine, remove the ignition

key, disconnect spark plug wire and
move the wire away from the spark
plug, and let engine and muffler cool
downbeforechangingbelt speeds.

Changingthe beltfrom LOWrange into
HIGHrange (or backagain) isa matter of
moving the belt from one setof pulley
grooves to a second set of pulleygrooves.

This changeis done quickly andwithout
tools (Figures4-9 through 4-13).

Pulley

Figure 4-9: Belt range positions.

Whenthe tiller is moving inREVERSE,the
wheels arepowered bya rubber reverse

disc, not bythe belt. Therefore,you have
onlytwo reversespeedsSLOWand FAST,

as set with the WheelSpeedLever.
Table4-1 showsthe rangeof wheeland

tine speedsavailablewhen using the two

beltspeed rangesand the FASTand
SLOWselectionson theWheel Speed

Lever.

Table 4-1

AvailablewheelandUnespeedsat 3000RPM

enginespeed.

Belt WheelSpeedWheel Tine

Lever _ Speed _ Speed

Low Range Slow .5MPH _46RPM

Low Range Fast 1.2MPH 146RPM

High Range Slow .7MPH 200RPM
High Range Fast 1.72MPH 200RPM

ChangingBeltFromLOWRange

to HIGHRange

1. To avoid personalinjury, shut off

engine,let all moving parts come to a
completestop, then disconnect spark

plug wire from spark plug andmove it
away from spark plug beforemaking any
adjustments. Wait for the engineand

muffler to cool down.

2. MoveWheels/Tines/PTODriveLever

into NEUTRAL.

19

Section4: Operation

The HIGH speed belt range position
combined with a FAST wheel speed
setting propelsthe tiller at the fastest
pace. Reducethe enginethrottle speed
whenstartingoutto help avoidpersonal

injury or propertydamage if using this

speedcombination.

3. Kneelon left side of tiller. Tocreate

belt slack, reachoverto right side of the
pulleys and push inatthe center of the
belt with a finger. At the sametime, use
your left hand to work the belt part-way
onto the lower-front transmission pulley
groove (Figure4-10).

4. Goto right side of tiller and finish
seatingthe belt.

5. Still holding the lever up in REVERSE
position, and working from the left side of

thetiller, movethe beltfrom the lower-
front transmission grooveto the lower-

rear transmission groove.

6. Goto the right side of the tiller and
finish seatingthe belt (Figure4-13).

Figure 4-11: Low range to high
range. Shows moving belt from top-
rear groove onto top-front groove.

7. Checkboth sidesof the high range
pulley groovesto verify that the belt is
properly seated.

Figure 4-10: Low range to high range.
Shows moving belt from lower-rear
groove onto lower-front groove.

4. Goto the other side of the tiller to
finish seatingthe belt onto the pulley

groove.

5. Working from the left side of the tiller,
work the beltas muchas possibleonto
the top-front engine pulley groove (Figure
4-11).

6. Finish seatingthe beltfrom the right
side of thetiller.

IMPORTANT: Proper belt tension is
important for good performance. See

Section 5, Drive Belt Maintenance for
information on belt maintenanceschedule

and procedures.
NOTE: If extra belt slack is needed to

move the belt, just raise the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever up into
REVERSE.This lowers the engine pulley,

and createsmore slack.

Changing Belt From HIGH Range to
LOW Range

1. To avoid personalinjury, shut off

engine,let all moving parts come to a
complete stop, thendisconnect spark

plug wire from spark plug and move wire
awayfrom spark plug before makingany

adjustments. Let engineand muffler cool.

2. Move theWheels/Tines/PTODrive
Lever into NEUTRAL.

3. Standon left side of tiller. Useyour
right hand to hold the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever up into REVERSEposition.
Useyour left handto movethe belt off
top-front engine pulley grooveto top-rear

engine pulleygroove (Figure4-12).

Figure 4-12: High range to low
range. Shows moving belt from top-
front groove onto top-rear pulley

groove.

Figure 4-13: High range to low
range. Shows moving belt from

Iower-frent onto lower-rear groove.

7. Checkthat the belt isfully seatedinthe
pulley grooves. Checkthis from both

sides of thetiller.

ChoosingWheel

and Tine Speeds

Your tiller hasfour FORWARDwheel/tine
speedcombinations for handling a variety

of tilling tasks and gardening jobs. Exper-
iment with the tine depth, enginespeed,

and wheel/tinespeedanddeterminethe
combination that provides the best

results. Herearesome tips:

1. Advancethe throttle leverso the engine
hassufficient power.

2. When tilling untilled or hard earth, do
not set the Depth Regulatortoo deep.The

tiller will buckand the enginewill load
down.

3. You will know your settings are ideal
whenthe tines break-up the soil easily,

the enginedoes not labor, and your
progress issteadyand smooth.

SeeTable2, WheelSpeedand BeltRange
Selection Guidefor recommendations.

2O