Yard Machines YM121 Operator's Manual
Operator’s Manual
2-Cycle Gas Cultivator
YM121
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Rules for Safe Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Know Your Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Assembly Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Oil and Fuel Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Starting/Stopping Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Maintenance & Repair Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Cleaning and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E8
All information, illustrations, and specifications in this manual are based
on the latest product information available at the time of printing. We
reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.
Copyright© 2009 MTD SOUTHWEST INC, All Rights Reserved.
For service call 1-800-800-7310, or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada to
obtain a list of authorized service dealers near you. For more details
about your unit, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com/
www.mtdproducts.ca.
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.
DO NOT RETURN THE UNIT TO THE RETAILER. PROOF OF
PURCHASE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY SERVICE.
THIS PRODUCT IS COVERED BY ONE OR MORE U.S. PATENTS.
OTHER PATENTS PENDING.
Service on this unit both within and after the warranty period should be
performed only by an authorized and approved service dealer.
Before beginning, locate the unit’s model plate. It lists the model and
serial numbers of your unit. Refer to the sample plate below and copy
the information for future reference.
Copy the serial number here:
Copy the model and parent part number here:
PART NO. 769-04260 P00 (4/09)
In an effort to reduce the impact on the forests,
and reduce carbon and greenhouse gas
emissions, MTD is using less paper by reducing
the text size of this manual.
DO NOT RETURN
THIS PRODUCT
For Assistance please call 1-800-800-7310 (U.S.) or
1-800-668-1238 (Canada) or visit www.mtdproducts.com/
www.mtdproducts.ca
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
2
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING
• Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper
use of the unit.
• Do not operate this unit when tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol,
drugs, or medication.
• Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except
for teens guided by an adult.
• All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before
operating the unit.
• Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for fuel
leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace parts
that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Do not operate the
unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris
and hard or sharp objects such as glass, wire, etc.
• Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. At a minimum, keep
all children, bystanders, and pets outside a 50 feet (15 m.) radius; there
still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects. Bystanders
should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If you are approached,
stop the unit immediately.
• Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to
the idle position. Make all adjustments or repairs before using unit.
SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS
• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved for the
storage of such materials.
• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the
engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank.
Never remove the cap of the fuel tank, or add fuel, when the engine is
hot. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.
• Mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there
are no sparks or flames. Slowly remove the fuel cap only after stopping
engine. Do not smoke while fueling or mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled
fuel from the unit immediately. Always wipe unit dry before using.
• Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site
before starting the engine. Do not smoke or allow sparks and open
flames near the area while adding fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing
exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well ventilated
outdoor area.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI
Z87.1-1989 standards. Also wear ear/hearing protection when
operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.
Long sleeve shirts are recommended.
• Wear heavy, long pants, boots and gloves. Do not wear loose clothing,
jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above
shoulder level.
• This unit has a clutch. The tines remains stationary when the engine is
idling. If it does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service
technician.
•
Be sure the tines are not in contact with anything before starting the unit.
• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Avoid accidental starting. The operator and unit must be in a stable
position while starting. See Starting/Stopping Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.
• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. Take extra
care when working on steep slopes or inclines.
• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip
on the grips.
• Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not
touch or try to stop the tines when they are rotating.
• Do not touch the engine or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from
operation. They remain hot for a short time after you turn off the unit.
• Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed to cultivate.
Do not run the engine at high speed when you are not cultivating.
• Always stop the engine when cultivating is delayed or when walking
from one location to another.
The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible
dangers. The safety symbols, and their explanations, deserve your
careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by
themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they
give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the
operation or maintenance of the equipment.
SYMBOL MEANING
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •
Read the Operator’s Manual and follow all warnings and safety
instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator
and/or bystanders.
FOR QUESTIONS, CALL 1-800-800-7310 IN U.S.
OR 1-800-668-1238 in CANADA
SPARK ARRESTOR NOTE
NOTE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in the states of California,
Maine, Oregon and Washington. All U.S. Forest Land and the state of
California (Public Resources Codes 4442 and 4443), Oregon and
Washington require, by law that certain internal combustion engines
operated on forest brush and/or grass-covered areas be equipped with a
spark arrestor, maintained in effective working order, or the engine be
constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire. Check with
your state or local authorities for regulations pertaining to these
requirements. Failure to follow these requirements could subject you to
liability or a fine. This unit is factory equipped with a spark arrestor. If it
requires replacement, ask your LOCAL SERVICE DEALER to install the
Accessory Part #753-04926 Muffler Assembly.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
WARNING
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS
CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE
CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM.
WARNING:
Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors
can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:
WARNING:
When using the unit, you must follow the safety
rules. Please read these instructions before operating the unit in
order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders.
Please keep these instructions for later use.
SAFETY ALERT:
Indicates danger, warning or caution.
Attention is required in order to avoid serious personal
injury. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or
pictographs.
DANGER:
Failure to obey a safety warning will result in
serious injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the
safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock
and personal injury.
WARNING:
Failure to obey a safety warning can result
in injury to yourself and others. Always follow the safety
precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and
personal injury.
CAUTION:
Failure to obey a safety warning may result in
property damage or personal injury to yourself or to others.
Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of
fire, electric shock and personal injury.
3
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
Indicates danger, warning or caution. May be used in
conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
• HOT SURFACE WARNING
Do not touch a hot muffler or cylinder. You may get
burned. These parts get extremely hot from operation.
When turned off they remain hot for a short time.
• WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Read the operator’s manual(s) and follow all warnings and
safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious
injury to the operator and/or bystanders.
• WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION
WARNING: Thrown objects and loud noise can cause
severe eye injury and hearing loss. Wear eye protection
meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards and ear protection when
operating this unit. Use a full face shield when needed.
• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY
WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially children
and pets, at least 50 feet (15 m.) from the operating area.
• THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER CAN
CAUSE SEVERE INJURY
WARNING: Small objects can be propelled at high
speed, causing injury. Keep away from the rotating rotor.
SYMBOL MEANING
• CHOKE CONTROL
1. • FULL choke position
2. • PARTIAL choke position
3. • RUN choke position
• UNLEADED FUEL
Always use clean, fresh unleaded fuel
• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
ON / START / RUN
• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
OFF or STOP
• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine
immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing
damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Stop and switch the engine to off for maintenance, repair, or to install or
remove the tines.
•
Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts and
accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service
dealer. Use of any unauthorized parts or accessories could lead to
serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.
• Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become
lodged between the tines.
• To reduce fire hazard, replace faulty muffler and spark arrestor, keep
the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or
carbon build up.
• SAFETY AND INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS •
This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator's manual
for complete safety, assembly, operating, maintenance, and repair information.
SYMBOL MEANING
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
• Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, inside a building where fumes
may reach an open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure to
secure the unit while transporting.
• Store the unit in a dry area, locked up or up high
to prevent unauthorized use or damage, out of the reach of children.
• Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep
handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use. See the
Cleaning and Storage instructions.
• Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct
other users. If you loan someone this unit, also loan them these
instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
• OIL
Refer to operator’s manual for the proper type of oil.
• GARDEN CULTIVATORS – ROTATING TINES CAN
CAUSE SEVERE INJURY
WARNING: Stop the engine/motor and allow the
tines to stop before installing or removing tines, or
before cleaning or performing any maintenance. Keep
hands and feet away from rotating tines.
• NO STEP
Always keep proper footing and balance. Do not
overreach, take extra care when working on steep
slopes or inclines.
• PLACE LEFT FOOT HERE
Avoid accidental starting. Stand in the starting position
whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit
must be in a stable position while starting.
USING FUEL ADDITIVES
The bottle of 2-cycle oil that came with your unit contains a fuel additive which will help inhibit corrosion
and minimize the formation of gum deposits. It is recommended that you use our 2-cycle oil with this unit.
If unavailable, use a good 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled engines along with a fuel additive, such as
STA-BIL® Gas Stabilizer or an equivalent. Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml.) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel
according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to the unit's fuel tank.
Thoroughly mix the proper ratio of 2-cycle engine oil with
unleaded gasoline in a separate fuel can. Use a 40:1 fuel/oil
ratio. Do not mix them directly in the engine fuel tank. See the
table below for specific gas and oil mixing ratios.
NOTE: One gallon (3.8 liters) of unleaded gasoline mixed with
one 3.2 oz. (95 ml.) bottle of 2-cycle oil makes a 40:1
fuel/oil ratio.
NOTE: Dispose of the old fuel/oil mix in accordance to
Federal, State and Local regulations.
FILLING THE FUEL TANK
Make sure the cultivator is in a horizontal position when filling or
adding fuel to the tank. (Fig. 4)
OIL AND FUEL MIXING INSTRUCTIONS
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel are the main reasons for the unit not running properly. Be sure to use
fresh, clean unleaded fuel. Follow the instructions carefully for the proper fuel/oil mixture.
DEFINITION OF BLENDED FUELS
Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methanol, or MTBE (ether).
Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil separate. It
forms acids when stored. When using alcohol-blended fuel, use fresh fuel (less than 60 days old).
USING BLENDED FUELS
If you choose to use a blended fuel, or its use is unavoidable, follow recommended precautions:
• Always use the fresh fuel mix explained in your operator's manual
• Always agitate the fuel mix before fueling the unit
• Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit
4
OIL AND FUEL INFORMATION
STARTING/STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix gas with oil. Fill fuel tank with fuel/oil mixture. Refer to Oil and Fuel Mixing Instructions.
2. Fully press and release the primer bulb 10 times, slowly. Some
amount of fuel should be visible in the primer bulb and fuel lines
(Fig. 6).
If fuel is not visible in the bulb, press and release the
bulb until fuel is visible.
3. Place the choke lever in Position 1 (Fig. 6).
4. Stand between the handlebars and support the unit by
placing your left foot on the wheel bracket assembly and
gripping the handlebar grip with your right hand (Fig. 7).
NOTE: Tilt the unit back slightly to bring the tines off the ground
when starting.
5. While squeezing the throttle control, grasp the starter rope grip
with your left hand. Pull the rope briskly 5 times.
NOTE: The throttle control should be kept squeezed throughout
the remainder of these steps.
6. Move the blue choke lever to Position 2. (Fig. 6)
7. While squeezing the throttle control, pull the starter rope 3 to
5 times to start the engine.
8. Keep the throttle squeezed and allow the engine to warm up
for 30 to 60 seconds.
NOTE: Engine may take longer to warm up and reach maximum
operating speed at colder temperatures.
9.
While continuing to squeeze the throttle control, move the
blue choke lever in Position 3 (Fig. 6) and continue warming
the engine for an additional 60 seconds. During this time the
unit may be used.
NOTE: Unit is properly warmed up when engine accelerates
without hesitation.
IF... The engine does not start, go back to step 2.
IF... The engine fails to start after a few attempts, place the
choke lever in Position 3 and squeeze the throttle control.
Pull the starter rope briskly 3 to 8 times. The engine
should start. If not, repeat.
IF WARM... If the engine is already warm, make sure the On/Off
control is in the ON (I) position and start the unit with the
choke lever in Position 2. After the unit starts, move the blue
choke lever to Position 3.
STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Release your hand from the throttle control. Allow the engine
to cool down by idling.
2. Press and hold the On/Off Control in the STOP (O) position until the engine comes to a complete
stop.
WARNING:
Remove fuel cap slowly to avoid injury from fuel spray. Never operate the
unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
WARNING:
Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated outdoor area. Wipe up any spilled fuel
immediately. Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilt fuel. Do not start the engine until
fuel vapors dissipate.
WARNING:
Remove fuel cap slowly to avoid injury from fuel spray. Never operate the
unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
WARNING:
Avoid accidental starting. Make sure you are in the starting position when
pulling the starter rope (Fig. 7). To avoid serious injury, the operator and unit must be
in a stable position while starting.
Stop/Off (O)
On/Off
Control
Start/On (I)
Fig. 5
Position 1
Position 3
Position 2
Choke
Lever
Fig. 6
Starting Position
Starter
Rope
Throttle
Control
Fig. 7
Primer Bulb
KNOW YOUR UNIT
APPLICATION
• Cultivating sod and light to
medium soil
• Cultivating in garden areas,
around trees, etc.
Choke
Lever
Throttle
Control
Handgrip
Handlebar
Knob
Primer Bulb
Air Filter/
Muffler
Cover
Spark Plug
Gear Box
Starter Rope
Grip
Muffler
On/Off Stop
Control
Wheel Bracket
Assembly
Shaft Tube Grip
Fuel Cap
ASSEMBLING THE UNIT
Before operating, position the unit’s handlebars.
NOTE: You may also need to reposition the wheel height before
using the cultivator. Refer to the Adjusting Tine Depth
section.
Begin by carefully unpacking the contents and making sure that
nothing is damaged.
POSITIONING THE HANDLEBARS
1. Loosen the two knobs on the inside of the handlebars (Fig. 1).
2. With the unit upright, swing the handlebars up into the
operating position (Fig. 1).
NOTE: Take care not to pinch the throttle cable or switch wires
when positioning the handlebar.
3. Tighten the knobs to secure the handlebars in place.
NOTE: Do not over-tighten the knobs.
4. Readjust the throttle cable and switch the wires so they are
smooth and tight against the handlebar assembly. This will
help prevent them from catching or snagging during normal
operation.
INSTALLING THE WHEEL BRACKET ASSEMBLY
If the wheel bracket assembly is not installed, or if you ever need
to remove or reinstall it, follow the ensuing instructions.
1. With the unit on its side, place the wheel bracket assembly
on the underside of the tine guard (Fig. 3).
2. Install a carriage bolt through each of the slotted holes in the
wheel bracket and into the tine guard.
3. On the TOP side of the tine guard, install a lock washer and a
wing nut onto each of the bolts (Fig. 3).
4. Make sure the square shoulder of the bolts is pushed through the slotted holes in the wheel bracket.
Tighten the wing nuts (Fig. 3).
NOTE: Do not over-tighten the wing nuts. Loosen the wing nuts to adjust wheel height.
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Handlebar
Knob
Fig. 1
Bolt
Washer
Hole
Handlebar
Knob
Fig. 2
Tine
Guard
Wing Nut & Lock Washer
Fig. 3
CAUTION:
For proper engine operation and maximum reliability, pay strict attention to
the oil and fuel mixing instructions on the 2-cycle oil container. Using improperly mixed fuel
can severely damage the engine.
WARNING:
Gasoline is extremely flammable.
Ignited vapors may explode. Always stop the engine
and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not
smoke while filling the tank. Keep sparks and open
flames at a distance from the area.
Tines
Tine Guard
WARNING:
To avoid injury from the tines,
wear heavy gloves and a long sleeve shirt when
installing the wheel bracket assembly.
WARNING:
To prevent serious personal injury,
the wheel bracket assembly must be installed
when operating the unit.
Tighten
Handlebars
OIL AND FUEL INFORMATION
Fig. 4
Throttle Control
MIXING RATIO - 40:1
UNLEADED GAS 2 CYCLE OIL
1 GALLON
(3.8 LITERS)
3.2 FL. OZ.
(95 ml)
1 LITER 25 ml
5
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATING TIPS
1. Move the cultivator to the work area prior to starting the
engine. Transport the cultivator by pushing it on its wheels.
2. Start the unit as described in the Starting Instructions.
3. With the engine running and the tines off the ground,
depress the throttle control to increase the engine speed.
4. Holding both of the handlebar grips firmly, slowly lower the
cultivator until the tines make contact with the ground (Fig. 8).
5. As cultivating action begins, pull back on the cultivator so
that the tines can penetrate the ground.
6. Once the ground has been broken, continue at a moderate pace until you are familiar with the
controls and the handling of the cultivator.
7. Pull the cultivator backwards to improve the depth of cultivation and reduce your effort.
8. If the tines are digging too deep or not deep enough, adjust them according to Adjusting Tine Depth.
WARNING:
Dress properly to reduce the risk of injury when operating this unit. Do not
wear loose clothing or jewelry. Wear eye and ear/hearing protection. Wear heavy long
pants, boots and gloves. Do not wear short pants, sandals or operate barefoot.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Perform these required maintenance procedures at the frequency stated in the table. These procedures
should also be a part of any seasonal tune-up.
NOTE: Some maintenance procedures may require special tools or skills. If you are unsure about
these procedures take your unit to any non-road engine repair establishment, individual or
authorized service dealer.
NOTE: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system may be
performed by any non-road engine repair establishment, individual or authorized service dealer.
In order to assure peak performance of your engine, inspection of the engine exhaust port may be necessary
after 50 hours of operation. If you notice lost RPM, poor performance or general lack of acceleration, this
service may be required. If you feel your engine is in need of this inspection, refer service to any non-road
engine repair establishment, individual or authorized service dealer for repair. DO NOT attempt to perform this
process yourself as engine damage may result from contaminants involved in the cleaning process for the port.
WARNING:
To prevent serious injury, never perform maintenance or repairs with unit
running. Always service and repair a cool unit. Disconnect the spark plug wire to ensure that
the unit cannot start.
FREQUENCY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED SEE
Before starting engine Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel mix p. 4
Every 10 hours Clean and re-oil air filter p. 5
Every 25 hours Check and clean spark arrestor
Check spark plug condition and gap
p. 5
p. 6
Every 50 hours Inspect exhaust port and spark arrestor screen for clogging
or obstruction to assure maximum performance levels.
p. 5
6. Replace the air filter inside the muffler cover (Fig. 13).
NOTE: Operating the unit without the air filter and cover
assembly will VOID the warranty.
Reinstalling the Air filter/Muffler Cover
1. Place the air filter/muffler cover over the back of the
carburetor and muffler.
NOTE: The blue choke lever must be in Postion 2 (Fig. 12) to
remove the air filter/ muffler cover.
2. Insert the four (4) screws into the holes in the air filter/ muffler
cover (Fig. 12) and tighten. Use a # T20 Torx bit screwdriver.
Do not over tighten. Do not force.
SPARK ARRESTOR MAINTENANCE
1. Remove air filter/muffler cover. Refer to Removing the Air
Filter/Muffler Cover.
2. Locate the muffler, but do not remove it. Find the screw on
the bottom of the muffler (Fig. 17). Remove the screw using
either a torx #20 or flat blade screwdriver.
3. Carefully pry up the left side spark arrestor hood. Two tabs
act as hinges on the right side of the hood. Flip open the
spark arrestor hood like a door and then pull its tabs out of
the muffler slots.
4. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, carefully pry the spark
arrestor screen out from the inside of the spark arrestor
hood.
5. Clean the spark arrestor screen with a wire brush. Replace it
if it is damaged, or if you are unable to clean it thoroughly.
6. Reinstall the spark arrestor screen snugly back into the spark
arrestor hood.
7. Reinstall the two hood tabs into the two muffler slots and flip
the spark arrestor hood closed.
8. Replace the screw you removed in Step 2 and tighten it
securely.
9. Reinstall the air filter/muffler cover.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
The engine’s idle speed adjuster is adjustable through the air
filter/muffler cover (Fig 18).
NOTE: Careless adjustments can seriously damage your unit.
An authorized service dealer should make carburetor
adjustments.
Check Fuel Mixture
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel is usually the reason for the unit
not running properly. Drain and refill the tank with fresh, properly
mixed fuel prior to making any adjustments. Refer to Oil and Fuel
Information.
Clean Air Filter
The condition of the air filter is important to the operation of the unit. A dirty air filter will restrict air flow
and change the air/fuel mixture. This is often mistaken for an out of adjustment carburetor. Check the
condition of the air filter before adjusting the idle speed adjuster. Refer to Air Filter Maintenance.
Adjust Idle Speed Adjuster
If after checking the fuel mixture and cleaning the air filter the
engine still will not idle, adjust the idle speed screw as follows:
1. Start the engine and let it run for about 2-3 minutes at a high
speed (full throttle) to warm up. Refer to the
Starting/Stopping Instructions.
NOTE: Ensure the tines are not in contact with the ground when
adjusting the idle.
2. Release the throttle control and let the engine idle. If the engine stops, insert a small phillips
screwdriver into the hole in the muffler cover (Fig. 18). Turn the idle speed screw clockwise 1/8 of a
turn at a time (as needed) until the engine idles smoothly.
NOTE: The tines should not rotate during engine idle.
3. If the tines rotate when the engine idles, turn the idle speed screw counterclockwise 1/8 of a turn
at a time (as needed), to reduce idle speed.
Checking the fuel mixture, cleaning the air filter, and adjusting the idle speed screw should solve most
engine problems. If not and all the following are true:
• The engine will not idle
• The engine hesitates or stalls on acceleration
• There is a loss of engine power
Have the carburetor adjusted by an authorized service dealer.
WARNING:
If the exhaust deflector assembly
is not tightened securely, it could fall off causing
damage to the unit and possible serious
personal injury.
TINE REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
NOTE: All installation instructions are explained from the
operating postion.
All 4 tines should be replaced at the same time because they will
wear evenly through normal use. Work on one side at a time.
1. Press and hold the On/Off Stop Control in the STOP (O)
position and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Lay the cultivator back on a flat level surface with the
handles touching the ground so that the cultivator is in a
horizontal postion.
NOTE: It may be necessary to wash any dirt off the tines and
shaft for easier tine removal.
3. Remove the click pin from each end of the tine shaft. Slide
the tines off of the shaft (Fig. 10).
4. Clean and oil the shaft.
5.
Slide on the new tines with the hubs facing in towards each other.
Making sure that the rotation arrows are facing the gearbox when
installing the tines on left tine shaft and away from the gearbox for
the right tine shaft. (Fig. 11)
6. Secure the new tines to the shaft with click pins. (Fig. 10)
AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
Removing the Air Filter/Muffler Cover
1. Place the blue choke lever in Position 2.
NOTE: The blue choke lever must be in Position 2 (Fig. 12) to
remove the air filter/ muffler cover.
2. Remove the four (4) screws securing the air filter/muffler
cover (Fig. 12). Use a # T20 Torx bit screwdriver.
3. Pull the cover from the engine. Do not force.
Cleaning the Air Filter
Clean and re-oil the air filter every 10 hours of operation. It is an
important item to maintain. Failure to maintain your air filter properly
can result in poor performance or can cause permanent damage to
your engine.
1. Remove the air filter/muffler cover. Refer to the Removing the
Air filter/Muffler Cover section.
2. Remove the air filter from inside the air filter/muffler cover
(Fig. 13).
3. Wash the filter in detergent and water (Fig. 14). Rinse the filter
thoroughly. Squeeze out excess water. Allow it to dry completely.
4. Apply enough SAE 30 oil to lightly coat the filter (Fig. 15).
5. Squeeze the filter to spread and remove extra oil (Fig. 16).
ADJUSTING TINE DEPTH
Tine adjustment will vary depending on the type of soil being cultivated and how it will be used.
Generally, adjusting the tines to break the soil 4 to 6 inches is recommended for most gardens. Adjust
the tines as follows:
1. Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Loosen (do not remove) the two wing nuts on the tine guard (Fig. 9).
3. Slide the wheel bracket assembly down for shallower penetration, and up for deeper tine
penetration.
4. Once the tines are in the desired position, tighten the wing nuts, making sure that the carriage bolts
are seated properly through the bracket.
5. If the tine depth is incorrect, repeat steps 2 to 4.
6. Reconnect the spark plug wire and continue use.
TRANSPORTING THE UNIT
1. Stop the engine.
2. Slide the wheel bracket assembly all the way down.
3. Tilt the unit back until the tines clear the ground.
4. Push or pull the unit to the next location.
CAUTION:
To prevent serious personal injury,
never pick-up or carry the unit while the engine is
running.
WARNING:
To prevent serious personal injury,
always wear heavy gloves when handling the
tines.
WARNING:
To prevent serious personal injury,
always stop the engine when operation is
delayed or when transporting the unit from one
location to another
WARNING:
To prevent serious personal injury, use extreme caution when reversing or
pulling the unit towards you.
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Fig. 14
Fig. 15
Air Filter
Inside Muffler Cover
Fig. 13
Blue Choke
Lever
Screws
Position 2
Fig. 12
Screws
Fig. 16
Slots
Spark
Arrestor
Hood
Screw
Fig. 17
Tab s
Spark Arrestor
Screen
Engine
Muffler
Idle Speed Screw
Fig. 18
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury,
always turn your unit off and allow it to cool
before you clean or service it.
WARNING:
The unit will still run during idle
speed adjustments. Wear protective clothing and
observe all safety instructions to prevent serious
personal injury.
Gearbox
Left Tine
Shaft
Fig. 11
Right Tine Shaft
Fig. 10
Click Pin
Tine
Left Tine Shaft
CAUSE ACTION
Old or improperly mixed fuel Drain gas tank and add fresh fuel mixture
Dirty air filter Clean or replace the air filter
Plugged spark arrestor Clean or replace spark arrestor
CAUSE ACTION
Old or improperly mixed fuel Drain gas tank and add fresh fuel mixture
Fouled spark plug Replace or clean the spark plug
Plugged spark arrestor Clean or replace spark arrestor
6
TROUBLESHOOTING
CAUSE ACTION
On/Off control in the OFF position Turn On/Off control to ON
Empty fuel tank Fill fuel tank with properly mixed fuel
Primer bulb wasn't pressed enough
Press primer bulb fully and slowly 10 times
Engine is flooded
Place choke lever into position 3, squeeze the
throttle trigger and pull the starter rope
Old or improperly mixed fuel Drain gas tank and add fresh fuel mixture
Fouled spark plug Replace or clean the spark plug
Plugged spark arrestor Clean or replace spark arrestor
CAUSE ACTION
Air filter is plugged Replace or clean the air filter
Old or improperly mixed fuel Drain gas tank and add fresh fuel mixture
Improper carburetor adjustment
Adjust according to the Carburetor Adjustments
section or take to an authorized service dealer for
an adjustment
If further assistance is required, contact your authorized service dealer.
ENGINE WILL NOT START
ENGINE WILL NOT IDLE
ENGINE WILL NOT ACCELERATE
ENGINE*
DRIVE SHAFT & CUTTING ATTACHMENT*
Engine Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air-Cooled, 2-Cycle
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 cc
Idle Speed RPM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,600-3,600 rpm
Operating RPM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,800+ rpm
Clutch Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Centrifugal
Ignition Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Electronic
On/Off Stop Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rocker Switch
Spark Plug Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.025 inch (0.635 mm)
Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel/Oil Mixture
Fuel/Oil Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40:1
Carburetor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diaphragm, All-Position
Starter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Auto Rewind
Muffler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baffled with Guard
Throttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Return
Fuel Tank Capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 ounces (415 ml)
Drive Shaft Tube. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steel Tube
Throttle Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Finger-Tip Trigger
Cultivating Path Width (Maximum). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 inches (22.86 cm)
Cultivating Depth (Maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 inches (15.24 cm)
Approximate Weight (no fuel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 lb. (12 kg)
SPECIFICATIONS
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS
REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG
Use a Champion RDJ7Y spark plug (or equivalent). The correct air gap is 0.025 in. (0.635 mm). Remove
the plug after every 25 hours of operation to check its condition.
1. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Grasp the plug wire firmly and pull the cap from the spark plug.
2. Clean dirt from around the spark plug. Remove the spark
plug from the cylinder head by turning a 5/8 in. socket
counterclockwise.
NOTE: Replace a cracked, fouled or dirty spark plug.
3. Set the air gap at 0.025 in. (0.635 mm) using a feeler gauge
(Fig. 19).
4. Install a correctly gapped spark plug in the cylinder head.
Tighten by turning the 5/8 in. socket clockwise until snug.
If using a torque wrench torque to: 110-120 in.•lb. (12.3-13.5 N•m) Do not over tighten.
CLEANING THE UNIT
• Use a small brush to clean off the outside of the unit and to keep the air vents free of obstructions.
• Do not use strong detergents or petroleum based cleaners, like kerosene. Some household cleaners
contain aromatic oils such as pine and lemon that can damage the plastic housings or handles. Wipe
off any moisture with a soft cloth.
STORAGE
• Never store a fueled unit where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing.
• Store the unit in a locked up area to prevent
unauthorized use or damage.
• Store the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Store the unit out of the reach of children.
LONG TERM STORAGE
If you plan to store the unit for an extended time:
1. Drain all fuel from the fuel tank into a container. Do not use fuel that has been stored for more than
60 days. Dispose of the old fuel in accordance to local regulations.
2. Start the engine and allow it to run until it stalls. This ensures
that all fuel has been drained from the carburetor.
3. Allow the engine to cool. Remove the spark plug and put 1
oz. (30 ml) of high quality motor oil into the cylinder. Pull the
starter rope slowly to distribute the oil. Reinstall the spark
plug.
NOTE: Remove the spark plug and drain all of the oil from the
cylinder before attempting to start the unit after storage.
4. Thoroughly clean the unit and inspect for any loose or
damaged parts. Repair or replace damaged parts and tighten
loose screws, nuts or bolts. The unit is ready for storage.
TRANSPORTING
• Allow the engine to cool before transporting.
• Secure the unit while transporting.
• Drain the fuel tank before transporting.
• Tighten fuel cap before transporting.
MOVING THE UNIT
1. Allow the unit to cool before moving.
2. Loosen the knobs on the handlebar.
3. Fold the handlebars down as shown (Fig. 20).
4. Either carry the unit by the shaft tube grip or grasp the center
of the handlebar to use it as a carrying handle (Fig. 21).
5. After the unit has been moved, reposition the handlebars and
continue operation.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, always turn your unit off and allow it to
cool before you clean or service it.
WARNING:
Do not sand blast, scrape or clean
electrodes. Grit in the engine could damage the
cylinder.
0.025 in.
(0.635 mm)
Fig. 19
Shaft Tube
Grip
Fig. 21
Handlebar
Knobs
Fig. 20
ENGINE LACKS POWER OR STALLS WHEN CULTIVATING
7
NOTES
8
NOTES
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