Mantis 7234 User manual

7234 DELUXE 2-CYCLE TILLER/CULTIVATOR
OWNER’S MANUAL
IMPORTANT!
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS START ON PAGE 5!
PLEASE REVIEW THE WARNING & SAFETY INFORMATION ON PAGES 3-4
AND THE ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE UNPACKING THE BOX.
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2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Rules & Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Assembly and Mixing Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13
Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
What to Do Just in Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-14
Getting to Your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Tilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15
Service Maintenance Guide & Specifications . . .15
Tilling/Cultivating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Tine Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-18
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Trouble Shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
MANTIS Tiller Assembly Layout . . . . . . . . . . .21
Engine Parts Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-24
EPA Phase 2 Emission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Limited Warranty Information . . . . .Back Cover
Here’s your new MANTIS Tiller...
the lightweight wonder that “Makes
Gardening Easier.”
Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS Tiller
weighs only 25 pounds. So it lifts easily,
handles smoothly, tills and weeds precisely.
And, unlike other small tillers, it features
serpentine tines that churn soil up to ten
inches deep. It creates a soft, smooth seed
bed, even in problem soil.
Once you know how to use your tiller
correctly, we guarantee you’ll love it. So
first, please read this manual. It shows, step
by step, how to use your tiller safely.
If you have questions about any topic in
this Manual, or for the name of your local
dealer, call 1-800-366-6268 toll free,
Monday - Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,
Eastern Time.
Attention Mantis Product
Owners! Get maintenance tips
for your Mantis product on our
website at www.mantis.com
WELCOME TO THE WORLD
OF MANTIS GARDENING
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3
SAFETY RULES & WARNINGS
You will notice throughout this Owners Manual Saf ty Rul s and Important Not s. Make sure you
understand and obey these warnings for your own protection.
I. Sp cial Saf ty Information
WARNING • DANGER
ATTENTI N: THIS SYMB L P INTS
UT UR IMP RTANT
SAFETY INSTRUCTI NS.
WHEN Y U SEE THIS SYMB L,
HEED IT’S WARNING!! STAY ALERT!!
WARNING • DANGER
T REDUCE THE P TENTIAL F R ACCIDENTS,
C MPLY WITH THE SAFETY INSTRUCTI NS
IN THIS MANUAL.
FAILURE T C MPLY MAY RESULT IN SERI US
PERS NAL INJURY, AND/ R EQUIPMENT
AND PR PERTY DAMAGE.
WARNING • DANGER
IMPR PER USE R CARE F THIS TILLER R FAILURE T WEAR PR PER
PR TECTI N CAN RESULT IN SERI US INJURY.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES F R SAFE PERATI N
AND ALL INSTRUCTI NS IN THIS MANUAL.
WEAR HEARING AND EYE PR TECTI N.
II. Saf ty & Warnings
!!
! !
!!
!
WARNING
he Engine Exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known
to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
!
DON’T FUEL, REFUEL,
OR CHECK FUEL WHILE
SMOKING, OR NEAR AN
OPEN FLAME OR
OTHER IGNITION
SOURCE.
MIX UNLEADED GAS
WITH 2 CYCLE 0:1 OIL.
INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.
CAUTION: WHEN ASSEMBLING
THE HANDLES, MAKE SURE
FUEL TANK FACES OPERATOR.
THIS IS THE REAR OF THE
TILLER, REFER TO ASSEMBLY
INSTRUCTION ON PAGE 7.
CUTTING HAZARD; KEEP
FEET AND HANDS AWAY
FROM ROTATING TINES.
WEAR EAR AND EYE
PROTECTION.
READ OWNER’S MANUAL
BEFORE USING TILLER, OR
PERFORMING ANY REPAIR
OR MAINTENANCE. KEEP
OWNERS MANUAL IN A
SAFE PLACE.
DO NOT CARRY THE
TILLER IN THIS
POSITION.
An important part of the safety system incorporated in this tiller are the warning
and information decals found on various parts of the tiller. These decals must be replaced
in time due to abrasion, etc. It is your responsibility to replace these decals when they
become hard to read. The location and part numbers (P/N) of these decals are illustrated on Page 16.
III. Saf ty D cal Information
WARNING • DANGER
IF THE TILLER IS USED IMPR PERLY R SAFETY PRECAUTI NS ARE N T F LL WED,
THE USERS RISK SERI US INJURY T THEMSELVES AND THERS. READ AND
UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEF RE ATTEMPTING T PERATE THIS TILLER.
!
!
WARNING • DANGER
PERATI N F THIS EQUIPMENT MAY CREATE SPARKS THAT CAN START FIRES
AR UND DRY VEGETATI N. A SPARK ARREST R IS INSTALLED. THE PERAT R
SH ULD C NTACT L CAL FIRE AGENCIES F R LAWS R REGULATI NS RELATING
T FIRE PREVENTI N REQUIREMENTS.
!
!
DON’T OPERATE
INDOORS
PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY
The 300 hour emission durability compliance
period is the time span selected by the manufacturer
certifying the engine emissions output meets
applicable emissions regulations, provided that
approved maintenance procedures are followed
as listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.
An Emission
Control Label is
located on the engine
(This is an EXAMPLE
ONLY, information on
label varies by
engine FAMILY.)
EMISSION CONTROL
The emission control system for the engine is EM/TWC (Engine
Modification and 3-way Catalyst) and for the fuel tank the Control
System is EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) or N (for nylon tank).
Evaporative emission may be applicable to California models only.
P/N 400630
P/N 430057
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V. Warnings - Don'ts
Don’t use tiller with one hand. Keep
both hands on handles with
fingers and
thumbs encircling the handles, while tines
are moving, and engine is running.
Don’t overreach. Keep a good footing at
all times.
Don’t run with the machine, walk.
Don’t work on excessively steep slopes.
Don’t attempt to clear tines while they
are moving. Never try to remove jammed
material before switching the engine off
and making sure the tines have stopped
completely.
Don’t allow children or incapable
people to operate this tiller.
Don’t operate while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Don’t attempt to repair this tiller. Have
repairs made by a qualified dealer or
repairman. See that only original MANTIS
parts are used.
WARNING • DANGER
HANDLE FUEL WITH CARE, IT IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. FUELING A H T ENGINE R NEAR AN IGNITI N S URCE CAN
CAUSE A FIRE AND RESULT IN SERI US PERS NAL INJURY AND/ R PR PERTY DAMAGE.
Always use fresh gasoline in the fuel
mixture. Stale gasoline can cause damage.
Always store fuel in containers
specifically designed for this purpose.
Always pull starter cord slowly until
resistance is felt. Then pull cord rapidly to
avoid kickback and prevent arm or hand
injury.
Always operate engine with spark
arrestor installed and operating properly.
The use of spark arrestor mufflers is
required by law in the state of California
(Section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code), as well as in other states
or municipalities. Federal laws apply on
federal lands.
Stop the engine whenever you leave the
machine.
Allow the engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure.
If the fuel tank needs to be drained, this
should be done outdoors.
Don’t fuel, refuel or check fuel while
smoking, or near an open flame or other
ignition source. Stop engine and be sure it is
cool before refueling.
Don’t leave the engine running while the
tiller is unattended. Stop engine before
putting the tiller down or while transporting
from one place to another.
Don’t refuel, start or run this tiller
indoors or in an improperly ventilated area.
Don’t run engine when electrical system
causes spark outside the cylinder. During
periodical checks of the spark plug, keep
plug a safe distance from cylinder to avoid
burning of evaporated fuel from cylinder.
Don’t check for spark with spark plug or
plug wire removed. Use an approved tester.
Don’t crank engine with spark plug
removed unless spark plug wire is
disconnected. Sparks can ignite fumes.
Don’t run engine when the odor of gas oline
is present or other explosive conditions exist.
Don’t operate the unit if gasoline is
spilled. Clean up spill completely before
starting engine.
Don’t operate your tiller if there is an
accumulation of debris around the muffler,
and cooling fins.
Don’t touch hot mufflers, cylinders
or cooling fins as contact may cause
serious burns.
Don’t change the engine governor
setting or over speed the engine.
VI. Engin /Fu l Warnings - Do’s
VII. Engin /Fu l Warnings - Don’ts
IV. Warnings - Do’s
R ad and und rstand th own r’s
manual. Pay particular att ntion to all
s ctions r garding saf ty.
1. Always keep a firm grip on both
handles while the tines are moving and/or
the engine is running. BE AWARE!! The
tines may coast after throttle trigger is
released. Make sure tines have come to a
complete stop and engine is off before
letting go of the tiller.
2. Always maintain a firm footing and
good balance. Do not overreach while
operating the tiller. Before you start to use
the tiller check the work area for obstacles
that might cause you to lose your footing,
balance or control of the machine.
3. Thoroughly inspect the area where
equipment is to be used and remove all
objects, which can be thrown by the
machine.
4. Always keep area clear of children,
pets, and bystanders.
5. Always stay alert. Watch what you
are doing and use common sense. Do not
operate unit when fatigued.
6. Always dress properly. Do not wear
loose clothing or jewelry, they might get
caught in moving parts. Use sturdy gloves.
Gloves reduce the transmission of vibration
to your hands. Prolonged exposure to
vibration can cause numbness and other
ailments.
7. Whil working, always wear
substantial footwear and long trousers. Do
not operate the equipment when barefoot
or wearing open sandals.
8. Always wear ear and eye protection.
Eye protection must meet ANSI Z 87.1. To
avoid hearing damage, we recommend
hearing protection be worn whenever using
the equipment.
9. To r duc fir hazard, keep the
engine, and petrol/gas storage area free of
vegetative material and excessive grease.
10. Start the engine carefully, according
to the manufacturer’s instructions and with
feet well away from tool(s).
11. K p all nuts, bolts and screws tight
to be sure the equipment is in safe working
condition.
12. Us xtr m caution when reversing
or pulling the machine towards you.
13. Work only in daylight or good
artificial light.
14. Always be sure of your footing on
slopes.
15. Ex rcis extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.
16. Always keep a safe distance
between two or more people when
working together.
17. Always inspect your unit before
each use and ensure that all handles,
guards and fasteners are secure, operating,
and in place.
18. Always maintain and examine your
Tiller with care. Follow mainten ance
instructions given in manual.
19. Always store tiller in a sheltered
area (a dry place), not accessible to
children. The tiller as well as fuel should
not be stored in a house.
4
!
!
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R moving Parts From Box
ASSEMBLY
St p 1
It is best to assemble the tiller
on a hard flat surface such as
a garage floor or driveway.
St p 2
Open top of shipping carton.
Your MANTIS®Tiller comes partially assembled.
The full assembly will take just a few minutes if
you follow the directions correctly.
St p 5
Remove component parts and lay on flat surface.
St p 3 St p 4
Remove tine box and oil. Remove cardboard insert.
St p 6 St p 7 St p 8
Lay box on wide flat side. Open bottom of the box and
lift box flaps up.
Return box to the standing position.
Do not remove upper
right throttle handle
assembly and engine
portion of the tiller in
this step.
Helpful Hint 1
Keep like items together.
Helpful Hint 2
CAUTION
When removing tine box,
handle the box with
extreme aution, Tines are
sharp and an ome
through the ardboard box.
5
Ratchet
7/16” Wrench
3/8” Wrench
Extension
7/16”
Socket
TOOLS
NEEDED
WARNING • DANGER
IMPR PER ASSEMBLY F THIS TILLER CAN RESULT IN SERI US INJURY. MAKE SURE T F LL W ALL INSTRUCTI NS CAREFULLY.
IF Y U HAVE ANY QUESTI NS, C NTACT UR FACT RY AT 1-800-366-6268 R AN AUTH RIZED MANTIS DEALER.
!!
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6
ASSEMBLY (continued)
St p 9
Pull box straight up.
The right handle, additional parts and tiller engine will be in the box cradle.
Do not remove the cardboard cradle from around the tiller base. The cradle will make
the assembly process easier for you.
Helpful Hint
Parts List
Low r Handl Ass mbly
Upp r Handl Ass mbly
Key Qty. Part No. Description
A 1 N/A Transmission and Engine assembly
B1 430023 Loop handle right half
C 1 430022 Loop handle left half
D 1 430025 Loop handle grip
E 1 430051 Lower handle, right
F 1 430050 Lower handle, left
G2 4049 3.25” Bolts
H 4 972 1/4-20 Two-way lock nut
I 1 430049 Carry Handle (with grip)
J 2 144-2 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex head cap screws
E
K
J – 1/4-20 x
1-1/8 Hex head
cap screws
H – 1/4-20
Two-way
lock nut
B, C – Loop Handle
G – 3.25” Bolts
D – Loop handle grip
I – Carry Handle w/grip
E, F – Lower Handle
A – Transmission and
Engine Assembly
E – Right
B – Right
F– Left
C – Left
Key Qty. Part No. Description
H 2 972 1/4-20 Two-way lock nut
J2 144-2 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex head cap screws
K 1 430003 Trigger handle assembly, right
L 1 430006 Handle assembly, left
M 1 430053 Middle handle, right
N 1 430052 Middle handle, left
O 1 430021 Handle brace
P 2 430038 Knob– 1/4-20 x 1.5 male
Q4 400523 Knob, two prongs, female
R 2 430039 Carriage bolt 1/4-20 x 2.25”
S 2 430048 Curved head bolt, 1/4-20x2”
T 2 395 Acorn nut
U 2 478 Throttle Clip
K
J – 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex
head cap screws
H – 1/4-20
Two-way
lock nut
S – Curved
Head Bolts
T – Acorn
Nuts
U – Throttle Clips
R – Carriage
Bolts
Q – Knobs, Two-
Prong female
O – Handle Brace
M, N –Middle
handles
P – Knob 1/4-20
x 1.5 male
K, L – Handle Assembly
K-Right L-Left
M-Right
N-Left
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7
ASSEMBLY (continued)
Low r Handl Ass mbly
Parts N d d:
Tin Ass mbly Kickstand Ass mbly
St p 1
Layout parts.
St p 4
Slide lower left handle onto 3.25” bolts.
Lower Tiller Assembly should look
like above.
Finger tighten
nuts and bolts.
Slide left loop handle (C) into grip (D) and into
right loop handle (B).
St p 3
Place right
lower handle
assembly onto
unit as shown
above.
St p 2
Insert grip (D)
onto the Right
Loop Handle (B)
Line up holes on
Right Loop Handle
(B) and Lower
Right Handle (E)
Place (2) 3.25”
bolts (G) through
holes.
One side only at a time.
Helpful Hint
Finger tight is one half
to one full turn.
Helpful Hint
Keep throttle cable out
of the way.
Helpful Hint
Hold bolts on right side as you put
left side onto the bolts.
Helpful Hint
DD
BB C
B
C
D
FE
E
B, C – Loop Handle
B – Right
F
C – Left
1
A
K
K
1
D – Loop handle grip
I – C
H – 1/4-20
Two-way
lock nut
L
T
E
A
C
L
T
K
G – 3.25” Bolts
A
K
L
E, F – Lower Handle
E – Right
B
F– Left
C
1
A
K
x
Z – Kickstand Brace Kit
Y – Kickstand
Key Qty. Part No. Description
Y1 410158 Stand
Z1 430037 Kickstand Brace Kit
X– Tine Retaining pinsV, W – Tines
Key Qty. Part No. Description
V 1 438RA Tine assembly, right
W1 438LA Tine assembly, left
X 2 418-1 Tine retaining pins
4A 4B 4C
4D
4E
A – Transmission and
Engine Assembly
K
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8
Carry Handl Ass mbly
ASSEMBLY (continued)
St p 5
Place Carry Handle (I) on lower
handle bars and line up holes for bolts.
Place (2) 1-1/8” bolts (J) through holes and
finger tighten. 1/4-20 two-way lock nuts (H).
Hex head cap
screws go on
the inside and
nuts go on the
outside.
Helpful
Hint
Use tools and tighten all
fasteners of the lower
portion of the tiller.
(Steps 1 thru 5)
Kickstand Ass mbly
St p 6
Place kickstand brace on top
portion of lower handle with the
stamped arrow pointing up.
Fully assembled lower portion of the tiller.
Place kickstand below lower handle
so the holes of the kickstand line
up with the kickstand brace (Z).
Place (2) 1/4-20 serrated flange
screws (Za) through the holes in
the top brace and tread into
kickstand (Y).
Tighten kickstand (Y) and
kickstand brace (Z) with (2) 1/4-20
serrated flange screws (Za) using
3/8” wrench.
Ratchet
7/16” Wrench
Extension
7/16”
Socket
Parts N d d:
Parts N d d:
I – Carry Handle w/grip
J – 1/4-20 x
1-1/8 Hex head
cap screws
H – 1/4-20
Two-way
lock nut
L
E
K
K
Z – Kickstand Brace Kit
Y – Kickstand
5A
6A 6B 6C
6D
5B
IMPORTANT
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9
Tin Ass mbly
Upp r Handl & Tub Ass mbly
ASSEMBLY (continued)
St p 7
For information on tine
positioning – Cultivating vs.
Tilling – please see page 16
Helpful Hint
The nuts go on the inside
of the tube hidden under
the Mantis logo brace.
Helpful Hint 1
The flat portion of the
middle tube (M) should
face away from the
Mantis logo on the
handle brace (O).
Helpful Hint 2
Repeat
Step 9 for
the left
side
before
atta hing
to the
lower
handle
assembly
Remove cardboard cradle
from tiller.
Take middle tube (M) and attach to handle brace (O) using
1/4-20 x 1-1/8 hex head cap screws (J). Finger Tighten 1/4-20
two-way lock nuts (H).
St p 8
St p 9
Layout parts.
Place tines (V, W) on tine
shaft with “D” shaped hole
facing outward.
Secure with tine retaining
pins (X).
Put Kickstand down and rest
tiller on kickstand and tines.
M
M
N
O
K
L
Parts N d d:
Parts N d d:
J – 1/4-20 x 1-1/8 Hex
head cap screws
H – 1/4-20
Two-way
lock nut
M, N –Middle
handles
K, L – Handle Assembly
K-Right L-Left
M-Right
N-Left
O – Handle Brace
M
K
X– Tine Retaining pins
K
V, W – Tines
7A
9A 9B
9C 9D
7B 7C 7D
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10
ASSEMBLY (continued)
St p 10
Take right handle (K) and slide it between middle handle tube (M) and brace (O).
St p 11
Attach the upper handle assembly
to the lower handle assembly.
Place carriage bolts (R)
through the upper handle
assembly and through the
lower handle assembly.
Thread the two-prong
knobs (Q) onto the
carriage bolts (R). Do not
tighten at this time.
Thread two-prong knob (Q) onto
exposed bolt (S), two full turns.
Place curved-head (S) bolt into slot
Curved-head bolt (S) should come
out of middle tube.
Slide curved head bolt (S) into bottom
slit of the upper handle.
Repeat Step 10 for the left side handle.
Rest the handles on the ground
to help in the assembly process.
Helpful Hint
K
S
S
Q
K
MO
O
S – Curved
Head Bolts
L
Q – Knobs, Two-
Prong female
O
Parts N d d:
R – Carriage
Bolts
K
Q – Knobs, Two-
Prong female
O
Parts N d d:
10A
11A 11B 11C
10B
10C
10D
10E
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11
ASSEMBLY (continued)
St p 12
Raise upper handle to full extension. Fully tighten the (2) two-prong knobs
(Q) shown above.
Install acorn nuts (T) using the
7/16” wrench.
Do not over tighten.
St p 13
Select hole position, Start
in lowest hole position and
adjust up as needed.
To make adjustment easier,
make sure two-prong knobs
installed in Step 10 are not
too tight. Loosen if necessary.
* Height settings are suggestions only. Select the position
that is most comfortable to you.
5’10” and
under use
position #1
5’11” to
6’2”use
Position #2.
6’3” and
over use
Position #3.
St p 14
Install the throttle clips.
Tighten round knob (P)
into the handle brace on
the right and left handles
to secure handle length.
H ight Adjustm nt F atur
If you need additional information or
have questions, contact Mantis at
1-800-366-6268 or Mantis.com
Helpful Hint
Q
T – Acorn
Nuts
Parts N d d:
P – Knob 1/4-20
x 1.5 male
Parts N d d:
Sugg st d
H ight S ttings*
12A
13A 13B
12B
Fully tighten the (2)
two-prong knobs (Q)
shown above.
Fully tighten
nuts and bolts
installed in
Step 9 located
underneath
handle brace.
13C
12C
IMPORTANT NOTE:
B sur you hav prop r throttl
mov m nts and that th throttl cabl is
not wrapp d or twist d around th
handl bar. Hold down the lockout lever,
fully squeeze the throttle trigger and let go.
The throttle triangle must click in both
directions. If there is any doubt, remove air
filter and visually check that the throttle
triangle hits both the idle screw and the full
open stop. THIS MUST BE DONE BEFORE
STARTING THE ENGINE.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Mak sur you hav
install d th handl s
prop rly. Wh n you stand
b hind your till r, holding
th handl s, you should
fac th gasolin tank
WARNING:
Improper throttle installation can
cause tines to rotate unexpectedly.
!!
IMPORTANT NOTE:
B for you us your MANTIS
Till r, r ad th Saf ty Rul s
& Warnings on pag s 3-4.
Q
13D
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12
ASSEMBLY (continued)
Mixing Fu l
WARNING • DANGER
FUEL IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE.
HANDLE IT WITH CARE. KEEP AWAY FR M
IGNITI N S URCES. D N T SM KE
WHILE FUELING Y UR EQUIPMENT.
Your MANTIS Tiller is powered by a
commercial two stroke, air cooled engine
which requires a fuel mixture of gasoline
and lubricating oil.
The following steps will instruct you on
how to mix the oil with the gas.
1. Pour 1/2 of the gasoline into a safe
container. Do not mix the fuel and oil in
the engine fuel tank.
2. Add 2.6 ounces of two-cycle engine oil
to the gasoline and mix. Then add the
rest of the gasoline.
3. Screw the cap onto the gasoline can.
Swirl the can to blend the oil and gas.
4. Carefully pour the fuel mix into the
tiller’s fuel tank. After putting the fuel
tank’s cap back on, wipe up any spilled
fuel from tank and gasoline can.
IMPORTANT:
Two stroke fuel separates and ages. Do not
mix more than you will use in a month.
Using old fuel can cause difficult starting or
engine damage. Shake fuel container to
thoroughly mix fuel before each use. Do
not attempt to run your engine on gasoline
only, use proper fuel mixture.
Need more premeasured oil? You can
order it directly from Mantis or your local
authorized Mantis dealer. Just call toll free
1-800-366-6268 and ask for our sales
department. or go online at www.mantis.com
Remember...
Always mix two-cycle oil with gasoline
before fueling your tiller. Never, ever run
your tiller on gasoline alone. This will
ruin your engine and void all warranties.
Always use a clean gas can and always
use unleaded gas.
Never try to mix the oil and gasoline in
the engine fuel tank.
Always mix oil and gas in the proper
proportions: 2.6 ounces of two-cycle
engine oil to one gallon of unleaded
gasoline.
!
1 gallon 89
octane
(R+M+2)
unleaded
gasoline.
Maximum
10% ethanol.
2.6 oz. bottle of
MANTIS 50:1 2-cycle engine oil
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Do not us old or stal oil/gasolin
mixtur . Always us th prop r
oil/gasolin mixtur . If you do not, your
ngin will suff r rapid, p rman nt
damag . And you will void th ngin
warranty.
WARNING • DANGER
ALTERNATIVE FUELS, SUCH AS E-20 (20% ETHAN L), E-85 (85% ETHAN L) R ANY FUELS N T MEETING ECH REQUIREMENTS ARE N T
APPR VED F R USE IN ECH 2-STR KE GAS LINE ENGINES. USE F ALTERNATIVE FUELS MAY CAUSE PERF RMANCE PR BLEMS, L SS F P WER,
VERHEATING, FUEL VAP R L CK, AND UNINTENDED MACHINE PERATI N, INCLUDING, BUT N T LIMITED T , IMPR PER CLUTCH ENGAGEMENT.
ALTERNATIVE FUELS MAY ALS CAUSE PREMATURE DETERI RATI N F FUEL LINES, GASKETS, CARBURET RS AND THER ENGINE C MP NENTS.
!
!
To Start Your Till r for th
First Tim :
1. Fill the fuel tank with the proper
oil/gasoline mixture.
(See previous section.)
2. Hand tighten the gasoline cap just
until it’s snug.
3. Place the o/Iswitch into the I
“start/on” position. (Pictur 1)
4. Pull the choke button all the way
out, to completely close the choke.
(Pictur 2)
5. Locate the purg bulb on the upper
right of the engine, in front of the
fuel tank. (S Pictur 3) It sends
fuel into the carburetor, for asy
starting. Press the purg bulb until
you see fuel flow through the cl ar
fu l r turn lin . Since you’re starting
“cold,” you may need to press six to
eight times. As soon as fuel starts
flowing through the clear fuel line,
stop pressing! (S Pictur 3)
6. Don’t press the throttle trigger during
the starting of the engine.
7. NOTE: Energy is stored in the starter
spring each time the handle/rope is
pulled. Generally two to six pulls,
using light pulling forces, will store
enough energy to engage the starter
and spin the engine. Do not pull the
rope out to end stop.
NOTE: When the choke is closed,
never pull the cord more than four or
five times. Overpulling may cause
flooding. Also, bear in mind that, when
the engine fir s, it only coughs or
sputt rs, and will not run on chok .
8. Push the choke button in, all the
way, to open the choke.
(S Pictur 4)
9. Gently pull recoil starter handle/rope
(S Pictur 5) until engine fires or
2 to 3 engine engagements.
10. Recoil Starter. Pull recoil starter
rope until engine starts. NOTE: If
engine does not start with choke in
“Run” position after 5 engine
engagements, repeat Cold Start
instructions.Let the engine warm up
two to three minutes before using.
Follow these steps whenever you are
starting the engine “cold”, or when the
engine has run dry and you have just
added fuel.
STARTING
Picture 1 Picture 2 Picture 3 Picture 4 Picture 5
Never use starting flui s as they
will cause permanent engine
amage. Using them will voi
the warranty. Before you use the
tiller, rea the Safety & Warning
rules on pages 3-4.
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13
STARTING (continued)
Starting a Warm Engin
1. Push ignition switch to I“start/on”
position.
2. Push choke button in to the RUN
(open) position.
3. If there is no fuel in the clear return
line, push primer bulb 3-4 times or
until fuel is visible in the line.
4. Pull starter rope using
2 to 6 short pulls.
5. If engine fails to start in 4 pulls, use
“First Time” starting procedure on
page this page.
6. With engine running, and both
hands on the handles, hold down
the throttle lock out lever, then
squeeze the throttle trigger gradually
Throttle Trigger
Throttle
Lock-out Lever
WARNING
AV ID ACCIDENTAL BLADE ENGAGEMENT
D N T SQUEEZE THE THR TTLE
TRIGGER WHEN STARTING.
MAINTAIN PR PER IDLE SPEED
ADJUSTMENT (2500-3100 RPM)
!
!
How to Stop
th Engin
Simply push the o/I
“stop/start” switch to
“o” (Pictur 1). This
will stop the engine
instantly. If it should
ever fail to do so, just
pull out the choke button. The engine
will stop at once.
About th Chok
The choke controls the amount of
air drawn into the engine. Your tiller
will run only if the choke is open —
that is, if the choke is pushed in.
A Sp cial F atur
(with th idl s t prop rly
and th ngin running)
Even when the engine is running,
the tines won’t turn unless you hold
down the throttle lock out lever and
squeeze the throttle trigger on the grip.
And, when you release the throttle
trigger, the tines will stop.
A Tip for Ext nding
Your Engin ’s Lif
After you start the engine, let your
tiller warm up for two to three minutes
before you use it. Then, before you put
your tiller away, let it idle for a minute to
give the engine a chance to cool down.
WARNING
•
DANGER
I F ENGINE D ES N T ST P WHEN
SWITCH IS PUT IN THE ST P
P SITI N, RELEASE THE THR TTLE,
ALL W ENGINE T IDLE. PUT THE
TILLER D WN, AND PULL THE
CH KE BUTT N UT T C LD
START (CL SED) P SITI N. CHECK
AND RETURN IGNITI N SWITCH T
N P SITI N BEF RE STARTING
ENGINE AGAIN.
Picture 1
Additional Information
!!
to increase the engine speed and engage
the tines.
NOTE: Step #6 must be repeated each time
your tiller trigger is released.
WHAT TO DO JUST IN CASE
If you follow the normal starting
procedure, you should have no problem
starting your tiller. But, just in case you
do have problems, here’s what to do.
Make sure the o/Iswitch is on I
“start.” You’d be surprised how many
people forget to push the switch into
the “I” position.
If the switch was on “o” when you
pulled the cord, you may have flooded
the engine.
First, examine the spark plug.
(Pictur 1)
Remove the cap over the spark plug.
Unscrew the spark plug (Pictur 2)
using a 3/4” spark plug socket.
Examine for damage.
Starting a Flood d Engin
1. If the end of the spark plug is wet,
the engine may be flooded. Mak sur
th switch is in th “o” position,
disconn ct spark plug wir and
r mov plug. Us a pap r tow l or a
cl an rag to dry th spark plug, th n,
with th spark plug out of th ngin ,
pull th start r cord s v ral tim s.
Next, replace the spark plug.
Use the wrench to tighten it and replace
the cap. Next, put the switch in the “I”
position and pull the choke button out.
Pull the starter cord three or four times
until the engine coughs or sputters.
Open the choke (push the choke button
in) and pull the cord a few times. The
engine should start and run.
2. If the end of the spark plug is dry,
check to see if the fuel line is blocked.
First loosen the fuel cap to relieve the
pressure in the tank. The fuel line runs
WARNING
MAKE SURE THE START/ST P SWITCH
IS IN THE ST P P SITI N. KEEP PLUG
WIRE AWAY FR M ENGINE T AV ID
UNINTENTI NAL SPARK.
!!
Picture 1 Picture 2
IMPORTANT NOTE:
To avoid possibl damag to th
thr ads, do not try to r mov th plug
from a hot aluminum cylind r h ad.
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 13
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14
WHAT TO DO JUST IN CASE (continued)
from the fuel tank to
the carburetor. Pull it
off at the carburetor
end. Fuel should drip
slowly from the line.
Wipe off any excess or
spilled fuel.
If fuel does not drip
from the line, check
the line for any bends
or pinches. (Pictur
3). Kinks in the line restrict the flow of
fuel to the engine. Just straighten out the
line. Reconnect. Then follow the normal
starting procedure.
If fuel drips too freely, the line may be
disconnected from the fuel filter. You’ll
find the fuel filter inside the fuel tank. Just
re-attach the line to the filter, and put the
filter back in the tank. Then follow the
normal starting procedure.
H r ’s Anoth r Way to
Start your MANTIS Till r
If you follow the steps above and
your engine still won’t start, try this:
1. Push the switch to “I”.
2. Push in the choke button to open
the choke.
3. Press the purge bulb a few times.
4. Give the starter cord a few short,
quick pulls. The engine should
start and run.
5. If the engine does not start, then
pull out the choke button to close
the choke. Pull the starter cord
four to five times. The engine
should sputter or cough.
6. After the engine sputters, push the
choke button in. Then pull the
starter cord. The engine should
start and run.
7. If the engine still does not start,
repeat steps 2 through 6.
8. If th ngin still do s not start,
call 1-800-366-6268 and ask for
Custom r S rvic or th nam of
your local MANTIS d al r.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
N v r us starting fluids. Starting fluids
will caus p rman nt ngin damag .
Using th m will void th warranty.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
B for you us your MANTIS Till r,
r ad th Saf ty Rul s & Warnings on
pag s 3-4.
Picture 3
GETTING YOUR TILLER TO YOUR GARDEN
Walk it.
Once your tiller is running, you can
“walk” it to your garden. Just hold
down the throttle lock out lever and
squeeze the throttle trigger gently and
let the tiller “tip-toe” across your yard
on its tines. It won’t hurt your lawn.
Carry It.
Make sure the engine is off. Then use
one hand to grasp the front loop handle.
Use the other hand to hold the carry
handle. (Pictur 1) Then lift your tiller
and carry it to your garden. Since it
weighs only 25 pounds, it won’t strain
your muscles or tire you out!
Tak It for a Rid .
You can easily transport your
MANTIS Tiller to a friend’s or relative’s
house. Just empty the fuel tank. (This
is crucial.) Then stow your Tiller in
the trunk of your car or truck. It fits
easily. And you can put it in and take it
out without straining your back.
Picture 1 Picture 2
WARNING
NEVER CARRY Y UR TILLER
AS THE PERS N IN PICTURE 2 IS D ING.
IF Y U D , Y U WILL SUFFER
SERI US INJURY.
!
!
TILLING
Now You’r R ady to Us
Your MANTIS Till r.
If you’ve seen
other tillers, your
MANTIS Tiller
may surprise you.
It tills best when
you pull it
backward! You
see, when you
pull your
MANTIS Tiller
backward, you
give extra
resistance to the
tines, so they dig deeper.
(Pictur 1)
What’s more when you go backward,
you erase your footprints. So your soil
stays light and fluffy. With other tillers,
by contrast, you walk right over the soil
you’ve just tilled, packing it down, so
it’s less plantable.
Run Your MANTIS Till r
lik a Vacuum Cl an r.
Place your Tiller at the head of the row
or area you want to till. Start it up. Then
use an easy rocking motion. First, pull
your Tiller backward. Then use an easy
rocking motion. Again, pull your Tiller
backward. Then, let it move forward just
a little bit. Then pull it backward again.
This will help you till deeper.
Keep repeating these steps until
you’ve tilled an entire row. Start again
on the next row. It’s much like running
a vacuum cleaner! (Pictur 2)
Picture 1
Picture 2
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 14
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15
TILLING (continued)
WARNING
•
DANGER
THE PERAT R F THIS
TILLER IS RESP NSIBLE F R
ACCIDENTS R HAZARDS
CCURRING T HIMSELF,
THER PE PLE R THEIR
PR PERTY.
! !
You Can Ev n Control D pth.
For D p r Tilling:
Move your Tiller slowly back and forth, as
you would a vacuum cleaner. Work the same
area over and over until you’ve dug to your
desired depth. (Pictur 3)
For Shallow Tilling:
Switch the tines to the cultivating position.
(See page 16 to learn
how.) Then move your
Tiller quickly over your
soil surface.
For Big W ds or
Tough Roots:
Let your Tiller rock
back and forth over
the tough spot, until
the tines slice through
the weed or root. Picture 3
Dry Weight . . . . . . .2.8kg — 6 lbs., 3 ounces
Type of Engine . . . .Air Cooled, Two stroke, Single-Cylinder,
Gasoline Engine
Rotation . . . . . . . . . .Clockwise, viewed from TOP
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . .32.2 mm (1.268 in.)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . .26.0 mm (1.04 in.)
Spark Plug . . . . . . . .NGK BPM8Y
Fuel Oil Ratio . . . . .50:1 ratio with MANTIS oil
Gasoline . . . . . . . . .Unleaded (see page 12)
Displacement . . . . .21.2 cc (1.294 cu. in.)
Exhaust System . . . .Spark arrester muffler
Carburetor . . . . . . . .ZAMA diaphragm model C1U type
Ignition System . . . .Flywheel magneto, capacitor discharge
ignition type
Starter . . . . . . . . . . .Automatic rewind with power spring assist
Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Designated, two-stroke, air-cooled
engine oil
Fuel Tank Capacity .0.5 lit. (17.0 oz.)
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
SERVICE MAINTENANCE GUIDE
COMPONENT/
SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE
PROCEDURE
REQ’D SKILL
LEVEL
DAILY OR
BEFORE USE
EVERY
REFUEL
3 MONTHS OR
90 HOURS
YEARLY 600 HOURS
Air Filter I spect/Clea 1 I / C *
Choke Shutter I spect/Clea 1 I / C I / R *
Fuel Filter I spect 1 I *
Fuel Cap Gasket I spect/Replace 1 I *
Fuel System I spect/Replace 1 I(2)* I(2)*
Spark Plug I spect/Clea 1 I / C / R *
Cooli g System I spect/Clea 2 I / C
Muffler Spark Arrestor I spect/Clea /Replace 2 I / C / R *
Cyli der Exhaust Port I spect/Clea /Decarbo 2 I / C
Gear Housi g Grease 2 I ( 1 )
Ti es I spect/Clea 1 I / C
Recoil Starter Rope I spect/Clea 1 I / C *
Screws/Nuts/Bolts I spect/Tighte /Replace 1 I *
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE LETTER CODES: I = INSPECT, R = REPLACE, C = CLEAN
IMPORTANT NOTE - Time i tervals show are maximum. Actual use a d your experie ce will determi e the freque cy of required mai te a ce.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE NOTES:
(1) Apply "0" or "00" EP Grease every 25 hours of use.
(2) Low evaporative fuel ta ks DO NOT require regular mai te a ce to mai tai emissio i tegrity.
* Replaceme t is recomme ded based o the fi di g of damage or wear duri g i spectio .
Not s:
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 15
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16
TILLING/CULTIVATING
WARNING • DANGER
IF Y UR TINES GET JAMMED R
ENTANGLED, SHUT FF THE ENGINE AT
NCE. REM VE THE SPARK PLUG WIRE
THEN REM VE THE BSTRUCTI N
WHILE THE ENGINE IS FF. NEVER TRY
T REM VE AN BSTRUCTI N
WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
SERI US INJURY CAN RESULT.
!!
How about a family-siz
v g tabl gard n?
Nowadays many gardeners prefer
small gardens — especially in the
suburbs, where space is at a
premium. But, if you’re fortunate
enough to own a large lot, you can
create a bigger garden — a half acre
or more. Here’s how:
1. First, rent a large tiller or hire
someone with a large tiller to
break ground for you. This is a
one-time-only investment that’s
well worth the small cost.
2. Then, use your Tiller to break up
any remaining clumps of soil or
sod. Unlike a tractor or big tiller,
your MANTIS Tiller is a precision
tool. It will pulverize your soil
into a smooth seed bed.
Now You’r R ady to
Cultivat or W d.
Guide your Tiller where you
want to weed and start it up.
Pull your Tiller backward
slowly, then let it move forward
a bit, in a gentle rocking
motion. Watch it slice, shred,
and bury those weeds!
Got tough weeds? Lighten
your pressure on the throttle to
slow your Tiller down. Then
work back and forth until your
Tiller chops up the weeds. It’s
easy and effective!
Remember, any tiller will
tangle in tall grass, stringy
vines, or super-big weeds. So, if
you have a “backyard jungle,”
first use a knife, pruner, or
brush cutter to chop up the
overgrowth. If the tines become
tangled anyway, push th
switch to th “o” position to
turn th ngin off compl t ly
before trying to clear them.
The optional Tine Detangler
(Item #1322) will clear tines in
a jiffy. Call 1-800-366-6268 for
details. (Ask for the Sales
Department.)
Your MANTIS Till r
Will W d B tw n
Narrow Rows!
Your MANTIS Tiller is a
precision weeder that easily fits in
tight places. So don’t be afraid to
weed anywhere: between plants
and shrubs; in corners; against
fences; on raised beds; in wide
rows; even in very narrow rows.
So you can run it in a tightly
planted garden without
damaging your delicate plants.
That’s good news for suburban
gardeners, who often have to
plant rows close together!
Your MANTIS Till r Mak s
W ding a Pl asur !
As a tiller, your MANTIS Tiller
works the soil down to 10” (25.4 cm)
deep. But, as a cultivator, it gently
cultivates the surface, only 2” to 3”
(5.09 cm to 7.62 cm) deep.
First, you must change the tines to
the weeding position. This takes less
than a minute.
Then, your MANTIS Tiller’s sharp
“tine teeth” will slice up those pesky
weeds, burying them as you go along.
And, since the tines in this position
won’t dig too deep, they won’t hurt
your plants’ precious root systems.
The result? Your Tiller will cut your
weeding time in half, and turn a
tiresome chore into a pleasure.
How to Switch From Tilling to
Cultivating Position
1. Make sure your Tiller is off.
2. Remove the retaining pins from the
tines.
3. Remove the tines from the axle.
4. Place the right-side tine onto the left-
side axle. Place the left side tine onto
the right-side axle. The “D” hole
should be to the outside.
5. Here is how to make sure you’ve
installed the tines properly. Stand
behind the Tiller
and hold your hand, palm up, next
to the tines. Do the tine points curl
up, as your fingers do? If so, they are
in the correct cultivating position.
6. Reinsert the pins.
Picture 1 Picture 2
CULTIVATING
Tilling Position
Tine teeth point in the
same direction as the
rotation of the tine; or
toward the front of the
Tiller, away from the
operator.
Cultivating
Position
Tine teeth point in the
opposite direction as the
rotation of the tine. Tines
point toward the back of
the tiller, or toward the
operator.
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17
MAINTENANCE
Ch ck th Air Filt r Oft n
A wet or dirty air filter can affect the
way your engine starts, performs, and
wears. So, it’s a good idea to check your
air filter once a month.
If you work in dusty soil, or if you
want to be on the safe side — then
check your filter more often (for
instance, before each use). But be sure
to replace it at least once a year, in the
spring or fall. Clean or change it as
needed. It is recommended to change
the air filter yearly.
How to Ch ck, Cl an and
Chang th Air Filt r
1. Loosen the wing nut on the side of
the air-cleaner cover. (See Pictur 1,
or look up Key #1 in Intake Parts
Assembly on page 17.)
2. Take off the cover. Make sure to clear
the choke button. (Pictur 2)
3. The air filter is the pad on the inside
of the air-cleaner cover. Check
whether it is soiled or moist.
4. If the air filter needs cleaning or no
longer fits properly, remove it. Just
lift an edge carefully and “peel” it
out. (Pictur 3)
5. Use a brush to remove debris from
the pad.
6. If the air filter is so dirty that it won’t
come clean, you must replace it or
severe engine damage will occur.
Order a new one directly from our
Customer Service Dept. Call 1-800-
366-6268.
7. Insert your clean filter inside the air-
cleaner cover.
IMPORTANT! Mak sur filt r
is “s at d” prop rly in th
cov r. Th filt r must fit snugly
insid th rim that holds th
filt r in plac .
Installing the filter incorrectly will
cause engine damage and void the
warranty. Fit the cover back over the air
cleaner. (Again, make sure to clear the
choke button.)
8. Tighten the wing nut to secure the
cover.
Not :
Pl as ch ck th lip on th Air Cl an r
Cov r. If th lip is chipp d or crack d,
it should b r plac d. This will pr v nt
dirt from b ing ing st d through th
carbur tor into th insid of th ngin .
Picture 3Picture 1 Picture 2
How to Ch ck th Gr as
L v l Insid th
Worm G ar Housing
When we built your MANTIS Tiller,
we lubricated the worm gear housing
thoroughly.
It is imperative that you inspect the
grease level once a year. Simply remove
the cover plate on the worm gear
housing. (Pictur 1) Then check to
make sure the grease comes almost to
the top of the housing. If it doesn’t, add
lithium #0 grease (Item 9985.) This is
the only way to add grease to the worm
gear housing. (Pictur 2) To purchase
MANTIS grease, call our Sales Dept. at
1-800-366-6268.
Pl as do not ov rfill. Too much
grease can create pressure, which could
cause seals to fail or the clutch to slip.
Fu l Filt r R plac m nt:
Fuel filter to be changed at the end of
every season.
Cl ar Blockag s From
th Fu l Lin & Filt r:
Clear any blockages you see in the
tank, fuel filter, or fuel line. Remember:
The fuel filter is located inside the tank.
(Pictur 3) Then use the normal
starting procedure to start your Tiller.
We recommend fuel filter
replacement each year.
Picture 2 Picture 3
Picture 1
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18
What to Do if Your Engin
Idl s Too High
What if your engine runs too fast … or if the
tines turn the instant you start the Tiller? You
may need to adjust the idle screw (Key #A19
under Carburetor on page 22) by itself right
below the H and L screws. Gently turn it
counter-clockwise. You’ll know you’ve adjusted it
correctly when the axles do not turn at low idle.
What to Do if Your Engin
Runs “Rough”
If your engine runs “rough” or stalls, you may
need to adjust the carburetor and idle screws.
If you remove the air-cleaner cover, you’ll see
the two carburetor, adjustment screws next to
the choke button. (Pictur 1)
The “RED” screw is the HIGH-speed
adjustment…The “WHITE” screw is the low
speed adjustment.
First, remove the tines from the axle. Then
start engine. Let it run for two to three minutes.
“FLASH” the choke several times during the
warm-up to clear any air from the Fuel system.
Then stop the engine after it reaches
operating temperature.
Now, turn the RED, high-speed screw
counter-clockwise all the way to stop…Then
turn the WHITE, low speed screw halfway
between the counter-clockwise and clockwise
stop positions.
Now restart the engine to finish the
carburetor adjustment.
Run the engine at full speed two or three
seconds to clear out any excess fuel. Then
return to idle.
Now, accelerate the engine to full throttle
several times to check for a smooth transition
from idle to high speed.
If the engine hesitates turn the WHITE, low-
speed screw counter-clockwise one-eighth of a
turn. Then accelerate the engine.
Repeat the adjustment until you get a
smooth transition to high speed.
WARNING•DANGER
REM VE TINES BEF RE
STARTING ENGINE AND MAKING
ADJUSTMENTS
MAINTENANCE (continued)
Picture 1
!!
How to R s at
th Flang
At some point, you may find that the
tines won’t turn when you press the
throttle. This may mean the engine isn’t
sitting all the way down on the worm
gear housing.
Perhaps you’ve been using your
Tiller for several years. Or perhaps
you’ve removed the engine for use with
our hedge trimmer attachment, then
replaced it. In either case, the flange
bolt (Key #D17, page 23) may have
come loose and lifted the engine up.
If this happened you’ll notice a gap
between the bottom of the engine clutch
case (Key #D19, page 23) and the top of
the worm gear housing. (Pictur 1)
To fix this, loosen the flange bolt.
Take the engine off the worm gear
housing. Notice the hex head on top of
the drive shaft (Key #22, Page 21).
Inside the clutch case, you’ll find the
clutch drum (Key #D23, Page 23).
Make sure the hex head lines up with
the clutch drum inside the clutch case.
Then put the engine back on the
worm gear housing.
If you’ve followed these steps
properly, there will be no gap between
the
clutch case and the worm gear
housing. (Pictur 2) Make sure you
tighten the flange bolt!
Exhaust Port/Muffl r
Cl aning
Tools required: 4mm Hex
wrench, Wood or plastic scraper
Parts Required: As needed:
Heat Shield
1. Remove spark plug lead from
spark plug, and remove engine
cover (2 screws).
2. Place piston at top dead center.
Remove muffler (A) and heat
shield (B).
3. Use a wood or plastic scraping
tool to clean deposits from
cylinder exhaust port.
IMPORTANT
Never use a metal tool to scrape
carbon from the exhaust port. Do
not scratch the cylinder or piston
when cleaning the exhaust port. Do
not allow carbon particles to enter
the cylinder.
4. Inspect heat shield, and replace if
damaged.
5. Install heat shield and muffler.
Tighten muffler mounting bolts
(or nuts) to 80-95 in lbf (90-110
kgf cm).
7. Start engine, and warm to
operating temperature.
8. Stop engine, and re-tighten
mounting bolts (or nuts) to
specifications.
9. Install engine cover and attach
spark plug lead.
High Altitud Op ration
This engine has been factory
adjusted to maintain satisfactory
starting, emission, and durability
performance up to 1,100 feet (96,0
kPa and above) mean sea level
(MSL). To maintain proper engine
operation above 1,100 feet (96,0 kPa
and above) MSL the carburetor may
need to be adjusted by an authorized
ECHO service dealer.
IMPORTANT
If the engine is adjusted for operation
above 1,100 feet MSL, the carburetor
must be re-adjusted when operating
the engine below 1,100 feet MSL,
otherwise severe engine damage
can result.
Picture 1 … Note how the engine
doesn’t sit all the way down on the
transmission.
Picture 2 … Note how the engine sits all
the way down on the transmission.
Cl aning th Muffl r
Scr n
1. Take out the spark plug.
2. Remove the red cylinder cover, (Key
#D14) which is held on by 2 phillips-
head screws, (Key #C15) and 1 hex-
head screw, (Key #C16) which you will
need an allen wrench to remove.
3. You will see the metal exhaust guide, held
on by 3 more phillips-head screws. (Key
#C1) Remove the exhaust guide.
4. Behind the exhaust guide (Key #C2)
will be the muffler gasket (Key #C3)
and muffler screen (Key #C4). The
screen sits under the gasket.
5. If the screen (Key #C4) is clogged
with deposits, it needs to be cleaned.
Use carburetor cleaner, and any brush
that is not metal. Brush the screen
until you are able to see through it.
6. If the screen remains plugged after
attempts at cleaning, it must be
replaced.
WARNING•DANGER
D N T USE GAS LINE R THER
FLAMMABLE SUBSTANCE
!!
C9
C8
C4
C3 C2 C1
C5
C6
C7
C15
C14
C16
Incorrect
Correct
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 18
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19
Each fall — or before you store your
MANTIS Tiller for any long period — be
sure to take these measures:
1. Do not store your Tiller with fuel still
in it. Even under ideal conditions,
stored fuel containing ethanol or
MTBE can start to go stale in 30 days.
And, since stale fuel has a high gum
content, it can clog the carburetor,
this, in turn, will restrict fuel flow. So,
wh n you’r r ady to stor your
Till r, or will not b using it for
mor than 2 w ks, drain the fuel
tank completely. (Pictur 2)
2. Next, restart the engine to make sure
no fuel is left in the carburetor. Then
run the engine until it stops. This will
prevent gum deposits, forming inside
of the carburetor and possible engine
damage.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire and
remove the spark plug. Use a 19mm
or 3/4” spark-plug wrench. Pour
about a teaspoon of clean, air-cooled,
two-cycle oil through the spark-plug
hole into the
combustion chamber.
(Pictur 3) Leaving the spark plug out
slowly pull the starter cord
two or three
times to coat the inside of the
cylinder wall.
4. Replace the spark plug with a NGK-
BPM8Y.
5. Install the spark plug, but leave the
spark plug wire disconnected.
6. Clean the air filter as described on
Page 17.
7. Clean dirt, grass, and other materials
from the entire machine.
8. Wipe the tines with oil or spray them
with WD-40, to prevent rusting.
9. Oil the throttle cable and all visible
moving parts. (Do not remove the
engine cover.)
10. Replace the fuel filter.
11. Check the grease level in the worm
gear housing, as described on page 17.
12. Order new parts to replace any that
are badly worn or broken. Just call
1-800-366-6268 and ask for a local
authorized Mantis dealer.
13. Store your Tiller, in an upright
position, in a clean, dry place. You
can store with the handles in an
extended position or folded down.
(Pictur 1)
14. To fold the handles, follow these
easy steps: Loosen the handle knobs
(#53), fold the handles forward (see
picture 1, inset). Tighten knob
securely. Your handles are now
folded and ready to store in a smaller
area.
15. Do you have fuel left over from last
season? Dispose of it properly. Buy
fresh oil and gasoline next season.
How to Pr par Your
MANTIS Till r for
R starting
Unfold the handles into an upright or
extended position. Tighten the two
handle knobs (#53)
In the Spring, when you take your
Tiller out of storage, remove the spark
plug. Pull the starter cord three or four
times to clean oil from the combustion
chamber.
(Pictur 4) Wipe oil from the spark
plug. Place the spark plug back into the
cylinder. Re-connect the spark plug wire
back on the spark plug. Then follow the
steps on pages 11&12 to refuel and
restart your Tiller.
Again, Ch ck th
Carbur tor.
If your Tiller won’t restart in the
Spring — or if it lacks its usual power
— the carburetor may need attention.
Follow the steps on page 18 for adjusting
the H and L screws. (Pictur 5)
Ch ck th Spark Plug Too.
If your Tiller won’t restart, or if it
lacks full power, the spark plug may be
at fault. Check to see if the plug is
fouled with oily black deposits. Clean or
replace it if it is. (Pictur 6)
Also, check whether the center
electrode is rounded at the end,
or if the ground electrode is worn. If
either is the case, you should replace it
with a NGK-BPM8Y spark plug. Use a
19mm or a 3/4” spark-plug wrench to
install it.
Adjust the plug gap to .024 -
.028 in. (
0.6 to 0.7 mm)
Caution: Do not ov r tight n
th plug. The correct torque is 11 to
13 ft.-lbs. (15-17 N.m) or 130-150 in lbs
and 150-170 kgl.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
To avoid possibl damag to th
thr ads, do not try to r mov
th plug from a hot aluminum
cylind r h ad.
STORAGE
WARNING•DANGER
D N T ST RE IN AN AREA
WHERE FUEL FUMES MAY
ACCUMULATE AND REACH A
FLAME R SPARK.
Picture 1
Picture 2 Picture 3
! !
Picture 4
Picture 6
Picture 5
WARNING
Always make sure the handle
knobs are secure before
starting your MANTIS Tiller.
! !
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 19
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20
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Probl m Caus R m dy
1. Tines don’t turn when throttle
is depressed
Engine is not seated properly on the gear
housing.
Re-install engine following the instructions
on page 13 (How to reseat the flange).
2. Engine fails to start o/Iswitch is in “o” position.
No fuel in tank.
Fuel strainer clogged.
Fuel line clogged.
Spark plug shorted or fouled.
Spark plug is broken (cracked
porcelain or electrodes broken)
Ignition lead wire shorted, broken or
disconnected from spark plug.
Ignition inoperative
Move switch to “I.”
Fill Tank.
Replace Strainer.
Clean fuel line.
Install new spark plug.
Replace spark plug.
Replace lead wire or attach to spark plug.
Contact your local authorized dealer.
3. Engine hard to start. Water in gasoline or stale fuel mixture.
Too much oil in fuel mixture.
Engine under or over choked.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Gasket leaks (carburetor or cylinder
base gasket).
Weak spark at spark plug.
Drain entire system and refill with
fresh fuel.
Drain and refill with correct mixture.
If flooded by over choking, proceed
according to instructions in operation
section. If under choked, move choke
lever to closed position and crank two or
three times.
See “Carburetor Adjustment.”
Replace gaskets.
Contact your local authorized dealer.
4. Engine continuously floods. Fuel tank vent line is not in an
upright position.
Return the fuel tank vent line to the
upright position and place it under the
cylinder cover in the small “pocket” in
the cylinder cover
5. There is black smoke coming from
exhaust
The muffler screen is clogged Clean carbon from muffler screen (page 13)
6. Engine misses. Dirt in fuel line or carburetor.
Carburetor improperly adjusted.
Spark plug fouled, broken or incorrect
gap setting.
Weak or intermittent spark at spark plug.
Remove and clean.
See “Carburetor Adjustment.”
Clean or replace spark plug - set
gap to
.024-.028 in. (0.6-0.7 mm)
Contact your local authorized dealer.
7. Engine lacks power. Air filter clogged.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Muffler clogged.
Clogged exhaust ports.
Spark Arrestor Clogged.
Poor compression.
Clean or replace air filter.
See “Carburetor Adjustment”.
Clean carbon from muffler.
Remove muffler, rotate engine until the
piston is at top of cylinder. With a wooden
scraper or blunt tool, remove all carbon
from exhaust ports. Be careful not to
scratch or damage piston or cylinder
walls. Blow out all loose carbon with
compressed air. Install muffler and gasket.
Clean Spark Arrestor
Contact your local authorized dealer.
8. Engine overheats. Insufficient oil in fuel mixture
Air flow obstructed
Mix fuel as described in starting
instructions.
Clean flywheel cylinder fins and screen.
9. Engine noisy or knocking. Spark plug in incorrect heat range.
Bearings, piston ring or cylinder walls
are worn.
Replace with plugs specified for engine.
Contact your local authorized dealer.
10. Engine stalls under load. Carburetor adjustment too “lean.”
Engine overheats.
See “Carburetor Adjustment.” (page 13)
Remove dust and dirt from between fins.
401775 Deluxe 2C iller-Cult Manual_ iller Manual 8/8/11 8:08 AM Page 20
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