Ardisam Earthquake MC43E User manual

OPERATING & PARTS MANUAL
MC43E/MC43
Mini Cultivator
Ardisam, Inc.
1690 Elm Street, Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829
Phone [phone] • Fax [phone]
1-800-345-6007
Email infogardisam.com
www.ARDISAM.com
OMMC43E/MC43 Rev. 1/20/06
©Copyright 2006 Ardisam, Inc.
All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA.

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INTRODUCTION, REGISTRATION AND WARRANTY
THANK YOU . . .
for purchasing an Earthquake® Mini Cultivator from
Ardisam, Inc. We have worked to ensure that it meets high
standards for usability and durability With proper care, your
cultivator will provide many years of service. Please take
the time to read this manual carefully to learn how to
correctly operate and maintain your cultivator.
Congratulations on your investment in quality
REGISTRATION
Fill out and mail the registration card located in your
Owner's Manual packet. Warranty is valid only if your
completed registration card is received by Ardisam, Inc., at
time of purchase.
Model Number 
Serial Number 
Engine Serial Number 
Date of Purchase 
Place of Purchase 
WARRANTY
One Year Limited Warranty
The Ardisam, Inc., Manufacturing Company warrants this Earthquake® Mini Cultivator to be free from defects in
material or workmanship. Conditions of this warranty include:
What is covered under warranty:
Ardisam, Inc. will repair or replace any part defective in workmanship or material within one year after delivery of
the electric start mini cultivator to the original purchaser.
What is not covered under warranty:
This warranty applies only to products which have not been repaired or altered outside our factory. It covers only
defects resulting from normal use, and does not cover defects arising from misuse, alteration, negligence,
commercial use, or accident. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser, and is not transferrable.
How to obtain service:
Call 1-800-345-6007 for service assistance, or return the product to us at the address below with transportation
charges prepaid.
This warranty supersedes all other warranties either expressed or implied and all other obligations or liabilities on
our part. Ardisam, Inc., does not assume, and does not authorize any other person to assume for us, any liability
in connection with the sale of our products. This guarantee is void unless warranty card is properly filled out and
returned to Ardisam, Inc., Cumberland, Wisconsin, at time of purchase.
Ardisam, Inc.
1690 Elm Street, Cumberland, WI 54829
Phone [phone] Main Fax [phone]
1-800-345-6007
Email [email protected]
www.ARDISAM.com
1-800-345-6007
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Earthquake"
SAFETY
Owner's Responsibility
Accurate assembly and safe and effective use of the
mini cultivator is the owner's responsibility.
Read and follow all safety instructions.
Carefully follow all assembly instructions.
Maintain the mini cultivator according to directions and
schedule included in this Earthquake Operator's Manual.
Ensure that anyone who uses the mini cultivator is
familiar with all controls and safety precautions.
Spedal Messages
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention
to potential safety concerns, machine damage as well as
helpful operating and servicing information. Please read all
the information carefully to avoid injury and machine
damage.
A
CAUTION
Avoid injury! This symbol and text highlight potential
hazards or death to the operator or bystanders that
may occur if the hazards or procedures are ignored.
damage! This text is used to tell the operator
of actions or conditions that might result in damage
to the machine.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the
manual that may help the operator in the operation or
service of the machine.
A
WARNING
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Important Safety Precautions
Please read this section carefully. Operate the mini
cultivator according to the safety instructions and
recommendations outlined here and inserted throughout the
text. Anyone who uses this mini cultivator must read the
instructions and be familiar with the controls.
A
This symbol points out important safety instructions
which if not followed could endanger your personal safety.
Read and follow all instructions in this manual before
attempting to operate this equipment.
Do not transport the mini cultivator from one place to
another with the engine running.
The tines of the cultivator should not rotate when the
engine is idling. If it does rotate when engine is idling,
contact Ardisam, Inc. for instructions.
Dress appropriately when operating the cultivator. Always
wear sturdy footwear. Never wear sandals, sneakers, or
open shoes, and never operate the cultivator with bare feet.
Do not wear loose clothing that might get caught in moving
parts. Always wear safety glasses for eye protection.
Always keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away
from any moving parts on engine and cultivator.
Do not allow children to operate this mini cultivator. Do
not allow adults to operate the mini cultivator without proper
instruction.
Do not operate any power equipment under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
Keep all screws, nuts and bolts tight.
Engine should be turned off and cool, spark plug wire
must be removed from spark plug before any repairs or
adjustments are attempted.
Temperature of muffler and nearby areas may exceed
150° F (65° C). Avoid these areas.
Never run engine indoors or in an enclosed area. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas.
Carefully inspect the area to be cultivated, and remove
all foreign objects. Do not cultivate above underground
utilities, including water lines, gas lines, electric cables, or
pipes. Do not operate the mini cultivator in soil with large
rocks and foreign objects which can damage the equipment.
If an object becomes lodged in the tines, turn engine off,
remove the wire from the spark plug and secure, allow to
cool before attempting to remove the foreign object.
Use only original equipment parts from Ardisam, Inc.
including all nuts and bolts.
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SAFETY
Ut3
Engine Safety Precautions
Warning Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
All engines contain carbon monoxide in their exhaust.
Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, tasteless, odorless
gas which may be present even if you do not smell or see
any engine exhaust. Levels of carbon monoxide, which can
be deadly, can be present for days in an enclosed area that
has poor ventilation. Any level of carbon monoxide, if
inhaled, can cause headaches, drowsiness, nausea,
dizziness, confusion and eventually death. If you
experience any of these symptoms, seek fresh air and
medical attention immediately.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Never run engine indoors.
Never try to ventilate engine exhaust indoors. Carbon
monoxide can reach dangerous levels very quickly.
Never run engine outdoors where exhaust fumes may be
pulled into a building.
Never run engine outdoors in a poorly ventilated area
where the exhaust fumes may be trapped and not easily
taken away. (Examples include: in a large hole or areas
where hills surround your working area.)
Never run engine in an enclosed or partially enclosed
area. (Examples include: buildings that are enclosed on one
or more sides, under tents, car ports or basements.)
Always run the engine with the exhaust and muffler
pointed in the direction away from the operator.
Never point the exhaust muffler towards anyone. People
should always be many feet away from the operation of the
engine and its attachments.
Gasoline Fires and Handling Fuel Safely
Fuel and fuel vapors are highly flammable. Never use fuel
where a spark or flame may be present. Never use fuel
where a potential source of ignition could occur. (Examples
include: hot water or space heaters, clothes dryer, electric
motors, etc.) Keep flames and sparks away from engine
and fuel to prevent fires. Fuel fires spread very quickly and
are highly explosive.
Prevention of Gasoline Fires
Never fill your fuel tank with fuel indoors. (Examples
include: basement, garage, barn, shed, house, porch, etc.)
Always fill fuel tank outside in a well ventilated area.
Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Stop engine and allow to cool before filling.
Never drain fuel from engine in an enclosed area.
Always wipe up excess (spilled) fuel from engine before
starting. Clean up spilled fuel immediately.
1-800-345-6007
Allow spilled fuel to dry, after wiping and before starting.
Allow fuel fumes/vapors to escape from the area before
starting engine.
Test the fuel cap for proper installation before starting
and using engine.
Always run the engine with fuel cap properly installed on
the engine.
Always unscrew gas cap vent screw while engine is
running.
Never smoke while refilling engine fuel tank.
Prevent fire and explosion caused by static electric
discharge. Use only nonmetal, portable fuel containers
approved by the Underwriter's Laboratory (U.L.) or the
American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM).
Do not store engine with fuel in fuel tank indoors. Fuel
and fuel vapors are highly explosive.
During storage, screw down gas cap vent screw tightly.
Never pour fuel from engine fuel tank.
Never siphon fuel by mouth to drain fuel tank.
Always have an adult fill the fuel tank.
Never allow an adult or anyone under the influence of
drugs or alcohol to fill engine.
Never allow children to fill the engine.
The clutch will transfer maximum power after about two
hours of normal operation. During this break-in period clutch
slippage may occur. The clutch should be kept free of oil or
other moisture for efficient operation.
Burns and Fires
The muffler, muffler guard and other parts of the engine
become extremely hot during the operation of the engine.
These parts remain extremely hot after the engine has
stopped.
Prevention of Burns and Fires
Never remove the muffler guard from the engine.
Never touch the muffler guard because it is extremely
hot and will cause severe burns.
Never touch parts of the engine that become hot after
operation.
Always keep materials and debris away from muffler
guard and other hot parts of the engine to avoid fires.
This engine is designed to operate using a catalytic
converter which contributes to the engine's compliance with
the EPA.
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CE=T1
SAFETY AND SAFETY RULES
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! Hot gases are a normal by-product of a
functioning catalytic converter. Follow all safety
Instructions to prevent burns and fires.
Steps for Working on Engine or Mini Cultivator
A CAUTION
Do Not Alter/Modify Engine or Mini Cultivator:
Avoid injury! Never alter or modify the engine from
the factory. Serious injury or death may occur if
engine is modified or altered.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! When working on or replacing parts for
the engine or mini cultivator you must always
disconnect spark plug wire from the spark plug and
keep it away from the spark plug.
Turn off engine switch.
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
Securely place the disconnected spark plug wire away
from the spark plug and any metal parts. This must always
be done or arcing may occur between spark plug wire and
metal parts.
Replace or repair the part on the engine or mini
cultivator.
Check all parts that were repaired, or removed during
repair, that they are secure and fit correctly.
NOTE: All repair parts must come from the factory.
Never replace parts that are not specifically designed
for the engine or mini cultivator.
Replace spark plug wire.
SAFETY DECAL
This mini cultivator has been designed and manufactured to
provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect
from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manu-
facturing.
Reading this manual and the safety instructions it contains
will provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to
operated this equipment safely and effectively. We have
placed a safety decal on the cultivator to remind you of
some of this important information while you are operating
the unit.
This important safety decal is illustrated below, and is
shown here to help familiarize you with the location and
content of the safety messages you will see as you perform
normal cultivating operations. Please review this decal now,
and if you have any questions regarding its meaning or how
to comply with these instructions, reread the complete
safety instruction text in this manual, or contact your local
dealer.
Should this decal become unreadable because of being
worn, faded, or otherwise damaged during the use of your
mini cultivator, please use the part number information
provided to order a replacement label from your local
authorized dealer. These decals are easily applied, and will
act as a constant visual reminder to you, and others who
may use the equipment, to follow the safety instructions
necessary for safe, effective operation of your mini cultiva-
tor.
Part No. LBLMC43W
Warning Decal MC43E
Tine Shield Decal
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4690
4640 (2)
4641 (2)
4642 (2)
4693
4640 (2)
4641 (2)
4642 (2)
4695
4689
Figure 1
(Model MC43E shown. Figure 1 applies to
both models MC43 & MC43E.)
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
UNPACK MINI CULTIVATOR
1. 
Carefully lift the mini cultivator out of the box, remove
any packing material and cut any ties holding the handlebar
pieces to the mini cultivator assembly.
ASSEMBLY
Stand the mini cultivator assembly upright with tines
and wheels on a level surface. Wheels should be set in the
lowest position. DO NOT place the mini cultivator on a
high surface where it can fall and cause property
damage or personal injury.
Using two tee handle nuts (4640), two bolts (4642), and
two curved washers (4641), assemble the middle handlebar
(4693) to the lower handlebar (4695) that is already
attached to the mini cultivator assembly. See Figure 1. The
middle handlebar can be installed in two positions one high
and one low. DO NOT overtighten the tee handle nuts.
Attach the upper right and left handlebars (4689 &
4690) to the middle handlebar using the two remaining tee
handle nuts, bolts, and curved washers. See Figure 1. DO
NOT overtighten the tee handle nuts.
For the Electric Start Mini Cultivator Model MC43E
remove the battery box cover and plug the white plastic
connector from the battery into the mating white plastic
connector in the battery box. See Figure 2.
Make sure the
ignition key is removed from the ignition before
connecting the wiring for the battery.
Figure 2
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rthquaki
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
CHARGING THE BATTERY (MODEL MC43E ONLY)
To charge the battery, check that the battery wiring is
properly connected and plug the battery charger (4681) into
the side of the battery box (4656) with matching three-
prong plug. Plug the other end of the battery charger into a
standard 120V outlet receptacle.
Battery should reach full charge after 2 hours of continuous
charging.
NOTE: RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES HAVE A LIMITED
NUMBER OF CHARGE CYCLES AND MAY EVENTUALLY
NEEDTO BE REPLACED. BATTERY LIFE AND NUMBER
OF CHARGE CYCLES VARY BY USE.
A
WARNING
Avoid electrical shock! DO NOT use battery charger
around water or in wet conditions.
IWOlaMT
DO NOT spray water on or near the electronics of the
mini cultivator as this may result in damage to the
electrical components.
DO NOT try to start engine while the battery charger is
connected.This could damage the engine and battery.
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DO NOT start engine with battery charger connected to
battery.This could cause damage to the mini cultivator.
Earthquake
OPERATION
Preparing Engine for Starting
GAS AND OIL
Quality
To operate the engine you must use a high quality 2-cycle
oil to ensure that the engine operates correctly throughout
the life of the engine. Use unleaded regular, unleaded
premium or reformulated automotive fuels only. It may
contain up to 10% ethanol, 10% gasohol, 15% MTBE, and
15% ETBE. DO NOT use Methanol or leaded fuels.
Mixture
Run mini cultivator with a 50:1 ratio. DO NOT use marine
2-cycle oil. See chart 1.
GAS
Qa,
RATIO
I gallon 2.5 ounces 50:1
2 gallons 5 ounces 50:1
5 gallons
13 ounces 50:1
Mixing Fuel and Filling Fuel Tank
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never store engine with fuel in the tank
indoors. Fuel and fuel vapors are highly flammable.
A
CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never mix fuel and oil directly in engine
fuel tank. Use only nonmetal, portable fuel containers
approved by the Underwriter's Laboratory (U.L.) or
the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM).
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! An adult must always handle and fill the
engine with fuel.
Mixing Fuel
Fuel must be mixed in a container outside in a well
ventilated area.
Fill certified fuel container 1/4 full of recommended fuel.
Add recommended amount of 2-cycle oil. DO NOT use
2-cycle marine oil.
Screw container cap on straight and tight.
Shake the container to mix fuel and oil.
7. 
Wipe away any spilled fuel or oil and allow to evaporate
before moving or transporting.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! Always handle gas in a well ventilated
area, outdoors, away from flames or sparks.
This engine uses a gas/oil mixture. DO NOT run on
straight gas only, engine damage will result.
Filling Fuel Tank
Shut-off engine and allow engine to completely cool
before refilling the fuel tank.
Move to a well ventilated area, outdoors, away from
flames and sparks.
Clean debris from area around the fuel cap.
Loosen fuel cap slowly. Place the cap on a clean, dry
surface.
Carefully add fuel without spilling.
Do not fill gas tank completely full, allow space for fuel
to expand.
Immediately replace fuel cap and tighten. Wipe off
spilled fuel and allow to dry before starting engine.
A
CAUTION
Avoid injury! DO NOT start engine if fuel is spilled.
Wipe off excess fuel and allow to dry. Remove engine
from area to avoid sparks.
Starting and Stopping Engine
Move engine to a well ventilated area, outdoors, to
prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Move to an area away from flames or sparks, to avoid
ignition of vapors if present.
Remove all debris from air cleaner holes and fuel cap to
ensure proper air flow.
CHART1
6. 
Unscrew cap slowly to vent. Add the remainder of fuel

4. Turn switch to the ON position.
requirements.
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Earthquake
OPERATION
5. Priming:
When using the primer bulb, allow the bulb to return
completely to its original position between pushes.
Choke must be in the OFF or RUN position when pushing
or using the primer bulb.
First Start: Starting new engine for first time or after running
out of gas, prime 3 times.
Cold Start: Starting engine after it has been sitting or
stored briefly with fuel in the tank, prime 1 time above 55°
Fahrenheit or 2 times below 55° Fahrenheit.
Warm Start:
Do not use primer or full choke if engine did
not run out of gas or has not cooled completely. Flooding of
engine will occur.
6. Choke:
Full choke
position is defined by moving the choke lever
as far to the ON or CHOKE position as possible.
Half
choke
is defined when the choke lever is between ON or
CHOKE and OFF or RUN..
Warm Start: No choke or half choke is needed.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! Starter rope can cause an unanticipated
jerk towards engine. Please follow instructions to
avoid injury.
for Manual Start -
Grasp starter handle and pull out
slowly, until it pulls slightly harder. Without letting it retract,
pull rope with a rapid full arm stroke. Let it return to its
original position very slowly. Repeat this step everytime the
starter rope is pulled.
Pull recoil until engine fires or runs.
NOTE: If engine fails to start after 5-6 pulls, push primer
1 time and pull starter rope again.
After engine starts running, move choke lever to
HALF
CHOKE.
For Electric Start
Check that the battery is connected using the white
plastic connectors inside the battery box. Insert ignition key
into ignition and turn key to the
"start" position until engine
starts running, then release key to the "on" position. DO
NOT hold the ignition key in the"start" position longer
than 3 seconds.
Run engine for 3010 45 seconds at half choke position
until engine warms up.
Move choke lever to OFF position and move throttle to
desired speed.
To stop, turn switch to OFF position on manual start
models. On electric start, turn ignition key to the OFF
position.
1-800-345-6007
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! If engine fails to start after the above
operations, please contact Ardisam, Inc. at 1-800-345-
6007.
DO NOT attempt to start engine in the following ways:
DO NOT use starting fluid.
DO NOT spray flammable liquids or vapors into air
cleaner, carburetor or spark plug chamber.
DO NOT remove spark plug and attempt to start
engine. Flammable fuel can spray out & ignite from a
spark from spark plug.
a CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never leave engine running while
unattended. Turn off after every use.
A
CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never carry mini cultivator from one
location to another while engine is running.
Normal Operation
The clutch will transfer maximum power after about two
hours of normal operation. During this break-in period clutch
slippage may occur. The clutch should be kept free of oil
and other moisture for efficient operation.
Cultivate without placing excessive body weight on the
unit. The mini cultivator operates most efficiently with the
weight of the unit itself.
Never run engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are deadly.
Using the Screw Type, Manual Venting Gas Cap
Your mini cultivator is equipped with a screw type, manual
venting gas cap.
Before starting the engine, turn the screw in the top of
the gas cap 2-3 turns (counterclockwise) to its venting
position.
DO NOT turn the screw to the point that it stops
(4-5 turns counterclockwise).
To ensure that gas will not
spill during use, check that the gas cap is screwed on
tightly and the gas cap screw is in the venting position.
After using the mini cultivator and before putting away
or transporting it in a vehicle, screw the gas cap screw and
gas cap on (clockwise) tightly. This will prevent gas from
leaking during storage.The gas cap will not leak during
storage if gas cap is tight and the screw at the top is tight.
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Never twist air filters when cleaning. Always press.
Earthquake'
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
A CAUTION
To prevent accidental starting:
Avoid injury! Engine must be turned off and cool,
and spark plug wire must be removed from spark plug
before checking and adjusting engine or equipment.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury!Temperature of muffler and nearby
areas may exceed 150° F (65° C). Avoid these areas.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! Check mini cultivator often for loose
nuts and bolts. Keep these Items tightened.
Mini Cultivator Maintenance
The transmission case has 1.5 oz. or (3 tbsp.) of
grease installed at the factory. It is recommended that once
a year the transmission case be split and the grease level
checked. A high quality lithium grease is recommended,
which can be purchased at most automotive and hardware
stores. DO NOT overfill.
Keep all screws, nuts, and bolts tight.
For cold weather operation, store the unit in a cool
environment. Transferring the unit from a warm to a cold
place can cause the build up of harmful condensation.
Engine Maintenance
a
CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never store engine with fuel in the tank
inside a building. Potential sparks may be present
for ignition of fuel and fuel vapors.
a
CAUTION
Avoid injury! An adult must always do maintenance
and repair on engine and mini cultivator.
a
CAUTION
Avoid injury! Engine must be shut-off, cool, and spark
plug wire removed before any repair or maintenance
can be done.
Cooling Fins
Cooling fins, air inlets and linkages must be free from
any debris before each use.
Air Filters
Never run engine without air cleaner properly installed.
Added wear and engine failure may occur if air cleaner is
not installed on engine.
Service air cleaner every 3 months of operation. Clean
and oil filter daily in extremely dusty conditions.
Steps for Cleaning Air Filters
Wash in warm water with mild soap until dirt and debris
are removed. Press filter when washing, do not twist.
Rinse in warm water until soap and dirt are removed.
Dry filter by wrapping in a clean cloth and pressing filter
until it is dry.
Apply oil to the entire filter.
Remove excess oil by squeezing filter.
Attach the filter and filter cover to the engine.
Spark Plug
Check spark plug at the beginning of each season.
Remove dirt and debris around the spark plug before
removing.
Remove spark plug and replace if any of the following
have occurred: pitted electrodes, burned electrodes,
cracked porcelain, or deposits around the electrodes.
Check spark plug for proper gap (.025" to .030").
After analysis of the spark plug, install original or a new
spark plug and tighten securely.
NOTE: DO NOT OVERTIGHTENI
NOTE: SPARK PLUG IS NGK BM6A OR CHAMPION CJ8.
Carburetor
Never tamper with factory setting of the carburetor.
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Cotter Pin
Hub Collars
Top Hole
Vertical Guide
Detent Pin
Drag Stake Pointed Tip
Highest Position
41
w4,0 1
High
Lowest Position
Earth uakt
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
Tine Removal and Installation
To Remove Tines
Remove the cotter pins from each end of the tine shaft.
Slide the four tines off the shaft.
To Install Tines
First slide the inside tines onto each end of the tine
shaft. One inside tine is stamped with a "B" and the other is
stamped with a "C".
Slide the outside tine "A" and tine "D" onto each end of
the shaft next. The tines should be installed in the correct
order so that they are positioned left to right A, B, C, D, as
viewed from the user's position on the mini cultivator. Make
sure that the hub collars on both the right and left pairs of
fines face each other so that there is adequate spacing
between the tine blades. See Figure 3.
Insert the cotter pins into the holes at each end of the
tine shaft to lock the tines into place.
Figure 3 (Frontal View)
Adjusting Wheels and Drag Stake
The wheels on the mini cultivator can be adjusted to one of
three positions.The lowest wheel position is used for
transporting the mini cultivator across a smooth level
surface while the engine is not running.The two higher
positions are used when cultivating in soil and help stabilize
the unit when cultivating at different depths. See Figure 6.
To adjust wheels up or down, see Figures 4 and 5.
Pull the locking metal sleeve against the spring until it
releases from one of the three holes in the vertical guide.
Slide the wheel set up or down to the desired position,
and release the locking metal sleeve until it locks into one
of the three holes in the vertical guide.
The drag stake is used to help regulate cultivating depth
and control the mini cultivator from leaping forward during
operation. Resistance to forward motion is greatest when
the drag stake is set in its lowest position allowing for
deeper cultivation.
To adjust the drag stake, see Figure 4.
Pull the pin out of the drag stake mount hole.
Position the drag stake so the pointed tip is directed
downward.
Insert the pin into the hole that achieves desired depth.
Figure 4
Locking Metal Sleeve
Spring
Figure 5
Figure 6
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'Earthqua
STORAGE
Transporting Your Mini Cultivator
Never transport engine inside an enclosed space or
vehicle. Fuel or fuel vapors may ignite causing serious
injury or death.
If fuel is present in the fuel tank, transport in an open
vehicle in an upright position.
If an enclosed vehicle must be used, remove gas into
an approved red gasoline container. DO NOT siphon by
mouth.
Run engine to use up the fuel in the carburetor and fuel
tank. Always run engine in a well ventilated area.
Wipe away any spilled fuel from engine and mini
cultivator. Allow to dry.
Gas cap and gas cap vent screw should be turned
down tightly before transporting mini cultivator in a vehicle.
Long Term Storage
If your mini cultivator will not be used for more than one
month, prepare it for long term storage.
Steps for Long Term Storage
Add fuel stabilizer according to manufacturer's
instructions.
Run engine for 10-15 minutes to ensure that the
stabilizer reaches the carburetor.
Remove the remainder of the fuel from the gas tank into
an approved fuel container.
A CAUTION
Avoid injury! To avoid injury or death, never siphon
fuel by mouth.
A
a CAUTION
Avoid injury! Never store mini cultivator with fuel in
the fuel tank inside an enclosed area or building.
Store mini cultivator in a upright position.
Remove all debris from cultivator tines and engine.
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1-800-345-6007

IMPOTANT
IN CASE OF A SERVICE PROBLEM, DO NOT SEND
UNIT BACK TO RETAILER. CONTACT ARDISAM, INC.
AT 1-800-345-6007. WE WELCOME YOUR CALL.
SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR
SERVICE INFORMATION
In the event that you experience trouble operating your mini
cultivator, begin by following the suggestions in the
troubleshooting guide in this section.
The guide will help you pinpoint the causes of common
problems and identify remedies.
For more complicated repairs, you may want to rely on
your retailer, an authorized mechanic or Ardisam, Inc.
(contact your retailer for a list of authorized mechanics in
your area). A parts catalog is included in this section.
We will always be glad to answer any questions you have,
or help you find suitable assistance. To order parts or
inquire about warranty call or write us at the address
found in the next column under the section ordering repair
parts, or check out our website - www.ardisam.com .
) TROUBLESHOOTING
ORDERING REPAIR PARTS
Parts can be obtained from the store where your mini
cultivator was purchased or direct from the factory. To order
from the factory, call or write to:
Ardisam, Inc.
1690 Elm Street, Cumberland, WI 54829
Phone [phone] Main Fax [phone]
1-800-345-6007
Email [email protected]
wvvw.ARDISAM.com
Please include the following information with your order:
Part numbers
Part description
Quantity
Model number and serial number
a, CAUTION
Practice safety at all times. Engine must be turned off
and allowed to cool, and spark plug wire must be
disconnected before attempting any maintenance or
repair.
Problem

Possible cause  Remedy/Action
Engine will not start

1. Power switch off

1. Flip switch to ON position
Spark plug wire disconnected

2. Connect spark plug wire to spark plug
Battery not connected or low charge

3. Connect or charge battery
Engine runs rough, floods during

1. Dirty air cleaner

1. Clean or replace air cleaner
operation

2. Choke partially engaged

2. Turn off choke
3. Carburetor out of adjustment

3. Call factory
Engine is hard to start
Stale fuel
Spark plug wire loose
Dirty carburetor
Drain old fuel and replace with fresh.
Use gas stabilizer at end of season
Make sure spark wire is securely
attached to spark plug
Clean carburetor, use gas stabilizer,
new gas can
Engine misses or lacks power
Clogged fuel tank
Clogged air cleaner
Improper carburetor adjustment
Spark plug dirty, improper gap, or
wrong type
Remove and clean
Clean or replace
Call factory
Replace spark plug and adjust gap
Tines turn at idle

1. Idle speed too high 
1. Adjust idle speed lower
2. Broken clutch spring 
2. Replace spring
Engine runs, then quits

1. Gas cap not venting

1. Make sure gas cap vent screw is in
venting position
Engine revs too high

1. Low fuel in tank

1. Add fuel to tank
1-800-345-6007

Page 13 
www.ardisam.com

300439 — 
300430
300429
300491
300438
300439
300445
300439
300444R
300444-
EE3
300439
300438
300439
300445
--"--""-""""'"--
1
-
00496
300439
300401
300471 
1021
300438
—
300494
 300486
300480
 300481
300498 
300489
2
300497 
300454
300488
300437
300480
300458
300479
 300457
300438
 300435
300478 
300456
300477 
300455
BM6A
300482
300483
300439
300493
300475
300474
—300471
4812
300492
300493
300471
300472
300484
300463
 --300439
300467
300439
300467
300487
0
300439
kesat
a a
300412
300449
300450
300413
300449
300450
MC43E/1AC43 ENGINE PARTS LIST
Page 14 
www.ardisam.com
1-800-345-6007

MC43E/MC43 ENGINE PARTS LIST
Part #
MINIMUM ORDER 
Description
Qty.
Part #
$10.00
Description
Qty.
4812 MUFFLER COVER, METAL  1
300472 IGNITION COIL  1
300401 FUEL TANK CAP, MANUAL VENTING  1
300474 CATALYTIC CONVERTER MUFFLER  1
300412 CLUTCH SPRING  1
300475
MUFFLER GASKET 
1
300413 CLUTCH ROTOR ASSEMBLY  1 300476 INTAKE GASKET 
2
300429 RECOIL PLATE 
1 300477 HEAT DISK 
1
300430 RECOIL ASSEMBLY  1
300478
INTAKE WINDPIPE 
1
300435 AIR FILTER  1 300479 CARBURETOR GASKET 
1
300437 FUELTANK  1 300480 FUEL TANKTHREADED SPACER
 2
300438 BOLT W/VVASHER, M5 X 25MM  4
300481 0-RING  1
300439 BOLT W/WASHER, M5 X 18MM 
15 300482 ENGINE SHROUD 
1
300444 FUEL TANK SUPPORT, LEFT SIDE  1 300483 ENGINE SHROUD COVER 
1
300444R
FUEL TANK SUPPORT, RIGHT SIDE  1 300484 MAGNETO FLYWHEEL 
1
300445
WASHER, M5 
2 300486 CARBURETOR  1
300449 SPRING WASHER  2 300487 ENGINE MOUNTING COVER  1
300450 SHOULDER BOLT  2 300488 CHOKE 
1
300454
INTAKE COVER  1 300489 CHOKE LEVER 
1
300455
INTAKE COVER ADAPTER PLATE  1 300491 RECOIL CLUTCH 
1
300456 BOLT, M5 X 50MM  2 300492 NUT, M6  2
300457 AIR FILTER COVER  1 300493
STUD BOLT, M6 X 62MM 
2
300458 INTAKE COVER  1 300494 FUEL TANK GROMMET, DOUBLE HOLE  1
300463 ENGINE SHROUD GROMMET  1 300496 STARTER MOTOR  1
300467
LOCATING PIN 
2 300497
PRIMER LINE CUTTO 4°
 1
300470 FUEL LINE HOSE & FILTER  1 300498 FUEL LINE CUT TO 9"  1
300471 BOLT, M5 X 12MM  3
BM6A SPARK PLUG
 1
1-800-345-6007

Page 15 
www.ardisam.com

4640 (2)
4641 (2)
4642 (2)
4690
4693
4667
6041612(2)
4660
4695
4640 (2)
4641 (2)
4642 (2)
I 4655 (2)
111
girnat
4641 (2)
ILQ:111
1 .
1b-
4657
300471 (2)
46140
4663
4661
4662
4656
4659
46141
4641(2)
4669
53106(2)
4639
4814
4803
4689
Ea rthqua e
MC43E/MC43 HANDLEBAR PARTS LIST
Part #
Description
Qty.
Part #
Description
Qty.
300471
BOLT, M5 X 12MM MC43E

3
4662
NUT, CHARGER PIGTAIL MC43E

1
46122
BATTERY 12V 7A MC43E

1
4663
CAP, CHARGER PIGTAIL MC43E

1
46140
KEY SWITCH MC43E

1
4667
THROTTLE CABLE 
1
46141
BOLT M8 X 1.25 X 160MM HEX HD

2
4669
BOLT, M6 X 1MM X 12MM PAN HD MC43E

1
4639 HANDLE GRIP

2
4681
BATTERY CHARGER, (NOT SHOWN) MC43E
 1
4640
NUT, T-HANDLE

4 4689
HANDLEBAR UPPER RIGHT

1
4641
WASHER 
8 4690
HANDLEBAR UPPER LEFT

1
4642
BOLT, HANDLE CLAMP

4
4693
HANDLEBAR MIDDLE

1
4643
ENGINE &TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

1
4695
HANDLEBAR LOWER

1
4650
NUT, M6 FLANGED HEX HD 
2
4800
THROTTLE HOUSING

1
4655
NUT, M8 HEX HD 
2
4803
CLEVIS PIN, .188 DIA. GROOVED

1
4656
BATTERY BOX MC43E

1
4804
E- CLIP, RETAINING RING FOR .188 PIN

1
4657
COVER, BATTERY BOX MC43E

1
4805
THROTTLE TRIGGER, LONG THROW

1
4659
VOLTAGE RECTIFIER MC43E

1
4814
BOLT, 10-24 X 1-1/4" PHILLIPS TRUSS HD

1
4660
SOLENOID MC43E

1
53106
NUT, 1/4-20 BI-WAY LOCK MC43E

2
4661
CHARGER PIGTAIL MC43E

1
6041612
SCREW, 1/4-20 X 1-1/2" PH TRUSS HD MC43E
 2
1-800-345-6007

Page 16 
www.ardisam.com

CAUTION
Be aware that the mini cultivator could unexpectedly
bounce upward, or jump forward if the tines strike
concrete, pavement, or other hard surfaces or hard
obstacles buried under ground.
Spacer
Wheel
Border-Edger Attachment
Cotter Pin
Spacer
Cotter Pin
Tine Shaft
BORDER-EDGER KIT INSTALLATION (OPTIONAL ACCESSORY)
The Border-Edger Kit is a useful tool for making clean cuts in the lawn along the borders of gardens, flower beds, walkways,
and driveways for a well manicured look.
Remove the cultivating tines.
Slide the border-edger attachment onto either side of the tine shaft. Make sure the hub collar of the edger tine faces
outward from the mini cultivator.
Slide one of the spacers onto the tine shaft next to the edger tine and insert the cotter pin through the hole at the end of
the tine shaft.
Slide the wheel onto the opposite side of the tine shaft.
Slide the remaining spacer onto the tine shaft next to the wheel and insert the remaining cotter pin through the hole at
the end of the tine shaft.
Before using the Border-Edger Kit, the drag stake should be removed from the mini cultivator and the wheels should be set
to the highest (top) position.
EK43 Border-Edger Attachment Kit
(fits both Models MC43 & MC43E)
1-800-345-6007
www.ardisam.com Page 19

Ardisam, Inc.
1690 Elm Street, Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829
Phone [phone] • Main Fax [phone]
1-800-345-6007
Email [email protected]
www.ARDISAM.com