Mantis XP User manual

Tiller/Cultivator
with 4 Stroke Engine
OWNER’S MANUAL
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 1

Here’s your new MANTIS XP Tiller…
the lightweight wonder that is making
gardening easier.
Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS XP
Tiller weighs only 34 pounds and is
like no other. So it lifts easily, handles
smoothly, tills and weeds precisely.
And, unlike other small tillers, it
features dual serpentine tines that churn
soil to ten inches deep. It creates a soft,
smooth seed bed, even
in problem soil.
It’s bigger than a mini tiller and better
than a bigger tiller!
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, 8:00am
to 5:00pm, astern Time.
2
Table of Con en s
Safety Rules & Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
ngine & Fuel Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Getting to Your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Tilling & Cultivating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-14
Tine Positioning and Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-16
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
MANTIS XP Tiller Assembly Layout . . . . . . . .18
Limited Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Welcome o he World of
Man is®XP Gardening
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 2

3
Safe y Rules & Warnings
You will notice Safety Rules and Important Notes throughout this Owners Manual. Make sure you understand
and obey these warnings for your own protection.
. Special Safety nformation
WARNING • DANGER
ATTENTION: THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT
OUR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL,
HEED IT’S WARNING!! STAY ALERT!!
WARNING • DANGER
TO REDUCE THE POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENTS, COMPLY
WITH THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.
FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY, AND/OR EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
WARNING • DANGER
IMPROPER USE OR CARE OF THIS TILLER
OR FAILURE TO WEAR PROPER PROTECTION
CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.
WEAR HEARING AND EYE PROTECTION.
. Safety & Warnings
!
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
!
! !
!
!
!
!
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 3

DON’T FUEL, REFUEL, OR
CHECK FUEL WHILE
SMOKING, OR NEAR AN
OPEN FLAME OR OTHER
IGNITION SOURCE.
INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.CAUTION: WHEN
ASSEMBLING THE HANDLES,
MAKE SURE FUEL TANK FACES
AWAY FROM 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.
DO NOT OPERATE TILLER
INDOORS OR IN POORLY
VENTILATED AREA
DO NOT REACH YOUR
FINGERS AND\OR
HANDS IN BETWEEN
THE TINE BLADES
ALWAYS REMOVE THE
OUTER TINES BEFORE
REMOVING THE
INNER TINES
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.
WARNING • DANGER
IF THE TILLER IS USED IMPROPERLY OR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
ARE NOT FOLLOWED, THE USERS RISK SERIOUS INJURY TO
THEMSELVES AND OTHERS. READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS
MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS TILLER.
! !
WARNING • DANGER
OPERATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT MAY CREATE SPARKS THAT
CAN START FIRES AROUND DRY VEGETATION. A SPARK
ARRESTOR IS INSTALLED. THE OPERATOR SHOULD CONTACT
LOCAL FIRE AGENCIES FOR LAWS OR REGULATIONS
RELATING TO FIRE PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS.
!!
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 ( /N) of these decals are illustrated below.
. Safety Decal nformation
4
/N 400634
/N 400631
/N 400635
V. Warnings - Do’s
Read and understand the owner’s
manual. Pay particular attention to all
sections regarding safety.
1. Always keep a firm grip on both
handles while the tines are moving and/or
the engine is running. B AWAR !! 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. While 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.
ye protection must meet ANSI Z 87.1.
To avoid hearing damage, we recommend
hearing protection be worn whenever
using the equipment.
9. To reduce fire 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. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws
tight to be sure the equipment is in safe
working condition.
12. Use extreme 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. Exercise 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 maintenance
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.
20. Always remove the outer set of tines
before removing the inner set of tines.
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 4

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 let others operate tiller
without proper training.
Do not stand in front of tiller
when tines are rotating.
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.
Don’t operate tiller with tines
having the 3 rods extending from end
without having second set of tines
attached. Failure to have tines in
place will damage tine assembly.
Do not reach you fingers and\or
hands in between the tine blades.
Do not attempt to remove the
inner tines before removing the
outer tines.
WARNING • DANGER
HANDLE FUEL WITH CARE, IT IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. FUELING A HOT ENGINE OR NEAR AN IGNITION
SOURCE CAN CAUSE A FIRE AND RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
! !
Always use fresh gasoline. 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.
f 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 gasoline 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.
Don’t
attempt to remove spark
plug while engine is hot. Removing
a spark plug from a hot engine can
cause irreparable damage to the
engine and will void your warranty.
V . Engine/Fuel Warnings - Do’s
V . Engine/Fuel Warnings - Don’ts
5
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 5

6
Your MANTIS
®
XP Tiller comes
partially assembled. Full assembly will
take just a few minutes if you follow
the directions.
First, take all items out of the
carton. But do not remove the
cardboard from around the Tiller’s
base.
The list at the right, shows the parts
that come with your tiller. Check to
make sure you have them.
The bag of hardware is in the plastic
bag containing the Owner’s Manual and
Video.
To assemble your MANTIS Tiller,
you’ll need two 7/16" and one 3/8"
wrenches or sockets. We suggest that
you install all nuts and bolts only
“finger tight”
— that is, one-half to
one full turn — until you’ve
completed assembly. The nuts are
self locking, but you must use a
wrench to tighten them completely.
Assembly
WARNING•DANGER
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THIS TILLER
CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT
1-800-366-6268
!!
Quantity D scription *K y #
1 Upp r Handl Ass mbly 2
1 Upp r Handl Throttl Ass mbly 1
2 Low r Handl s 6
1 Engin Ass mbly (includ s F nd r Guard,
Worm G ar Transmission & Tin s) 20, 21, 39,
40, 55,
66, 67
1 Carrying Handl 42
1 Handl Brac 8
1 Bag of Hardwar Containing:
2 Bolts (1” long) 47
4 Lock Nuts 48
2 Bolts (3” long) 49
2 Handl Clamps 51
1 Throttl Cabl Clip 13
2 Round H ad, Squar N ck Bolts 52
2 Handl Knobs 53
1 Kickstand Ass mbly 69
1 Kickstand Top Brack t with 3/8” Bolts** 70
*Th s numb rs ar th sam numb rs shown on th Parts
Layout on pag 18.
**If applicabl .
1
2
6
49
13
51
52
53
48
47
42
70
69
8
20 21 39 40 55 66 67
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 6

7
Assembly (con inued)
HOW TO ASSEMBLE
LOWER HANDLES
To identify part numbers, see
pages 6 and 18.
1. Open the protective cardboard
sleeve, but leave the engine assembly
(#21) in this cradle to stabilize it
during assembly. (Picture 1)
2. Lay the handle parts within easy
reach. You’ll need one of the handle
clamps (#51) and one of the lower
handles (#6). Note that the lower
handles have a short leg on one end.
3. Fit the handle clamp along the
outside of the short leg. Line up the
holes on the clamp and the leg.
4. Choose one of the two 3-inch
bolts (#49). Slide it through the first
set of holes — near the elbow where
the lower handle curves. (Picture 2)
5. Now slide the other lower
handle onto the 3-inch bolt. Fit the
other handle clamp onto this other
handle’s short leg. Add a nut (#48)
and tighten finger tight. (Picture 3)
6. Locate the worm gear housing.
It starts just above – and extends
down through – the tiller’s red fender
guard. You’ll notice that there’s a
recessed channel on either side of the
housing’s top. (Picture 4.)
7. Take the lower handles that
you’ve just put together. Slide them
into the two recessed
channels.(Picture 5.)
Make sure you insert them from
the rear of the tiller (gasoline tank
faces away from the operator)... so
that the bolt fits along the back of
the housing.
8. Slide the second 3-inch bolt
through the second set of holes in the
short legs. Add a nut and tighten
finger tight.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3 Picture 4 Picture 5
NOTE: THE LOCK NUTS ARE STAM ED. FINGER TIGHT IS
A ROXIMATELY 1/2 TO 1-1/2 TURNS.
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 7

WARNING • DANGER
REMOVE TINES BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
AND MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.
8
How to Assemble
Kickstand, Upper
Handles and
Carrying Handle
NOTE: f your Mantis®XP
was supplied with a
kickstand, please start at
line 1. f not, please start
with the assembly of the
carry handle in line 3 below.
1. Locate the kickstand top
bracket (#70). Note that the
distance between the channels
is narrower on one end of the
bracket than the other. Place
the kickstand top bracket onto
the kickstand assembly (#69)
so the end where the channels
are closer together points
away from the foot of the
kickstand (Picture 1). Align
the bolt holes and insert two
3/8” bolts through the holes in
the top bracket and screw
them into the bottom bracket
by hand.
2. Lightly squeeze the
lower handles (#6) toward one
another so they line up with
the channels in the top bracket
of the kickstand and slide the
assembly down the lower
handles until the foot of the
kickstand is about 2" from the
ends of the lower handles
(Picture 2).
3. Again, lightly squeeze
the lower handles (#6) toward
one another so they line up
with the 2 holes in the carry
handle (#42). Then slide the
carry handle and the
kickstand assembly down at
the same time until the
kickstand comes to a stop
(Picture 3).
4. Gently pull the lower
handles out to their original
position.
5. Attach the upper handle
throttle side assembly (#1) –
the handle with the throttle
cable and ground wire – onto
the right lower handle with a
shoulder bolt (#52), and secure
with the handle knob (#53).
(Picture 4 ) Be sure you have
proper throttle movements
and that the throttle cable is
not wrapped or twisted
around the handle bar.
Locate the red lockout button
located on the throttle handle
(Picture 5). Press the red
lockout button and squeeze
the throttle lever and let go.
TH S MUST BE DONE
BEFORE START NG THE
ENG NE.
6. Follow the same steps to
install the other upper handle
onto the other lower handle.
Does not show other handle
installation.
7. Use the clip (#13) to
secure the throttle cable and
wire in place on the lower
handle. (Picture 6)
8. Now install the Handle
Brace (#8). Line it up with the
holes on the upper handles.
!!
Picture 1 Picture 2
Picture 3 Picture 4
Picture 5 Picture 6
Assembly (con inued)
WARNING: Improper throttle
installation can cause
tines to rotate
unexpectedly.
!
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 8

9
Assembly (con inued)
WARNING • DANGER
FUEL IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. HANDLE
IT WITH CARE. KEEP AWAY FROM IGNITION
SOURCES. DO NOT SMOKE WHILE FUELING
YOUR EQUIPMENT.
!!
WARNING: CHECK OIL LEVEL
Running the engine with
a low oil level can cause
engine damage. Overfilling
the engine with oil can
lead to oil leaking and
smoking/oil from the muffler
!
Never use starting fluids as
they will cause permanent
engine damage. Using them
will void the warranty. Before
you use the tiller, read the
Safety & Warning rules on
pages 3-6.
Checking the Oil Level in
the Engine’s Oil Sump
MPORTANT NOTE: Before using
your new Mantis 4-Stroke Tiller for
the first time, it is important to
check the oil level in the engines oil
sump. The bottle of oil supplied with
this machine holds the correct grade
of engine oil.
Please follow he no es below for
full ins ruc ions how o check he
oil level in he engine.
How to fill the engines oil sump
before using your new Mantis
Tiller:
1. Rock the tiller forward so that
it rests on its fuel tank.
2. Remove the grey sump plug
and top up the oil using the correct
type of oil so that it is level with the
inner first thread of the sump plug.
(Picture 1) Picture 1
MPORTANT NOTE:
Before starting your 4
Stroke/Mantis®Tiller, add the
premeasured bottle of 4 stroke
engine oil supplied with your
tiller. See 4 Stroke Tiller Engine
Manual and information below
for details.
MPORTANT NOTE:
Before you use your MANT S
Tiller, read the Safety Rules &
Warnings on pages 3-5.
MPORTANT NOTE:
Check the oil level in the
engine before each use. f oil is
low, top it off with 10W-30
before using. See your 4 Stroke
Tiller Engine Manual and
information above for details.
Picture 7
Then insert a Cap Screw (#47) and a
Lock Nut (#48) on either side (Picture 7)
9. Use a wrench to tighten Cap Screws
and Lock Nuts.
10. Now use wrench to tighten all nuts
and bolts firmly and securely.
MPORTANT NOTE:
Make sure you have installed the
handles properly. When you stand
behind your tiller, holding the handles,
the gas tank is facing away from you,
on the front side of the engine.
Max. 3.4 oz (100ml)
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 9

TO START YOUR
T LLER FOR THE
F RST T ME:
First, fill the fuel tank with the
proper amount of gasoline (Use
branded 89 octane (R+M+2)
unleaded gasoline or gasohol—
maximum 10% ethyl alcohol, or
15% MTB , no methyl alcohol.)
Mantis®XP Tiller
Starting nstructions
(4 Stroke 35cc engine)
Cold Engine
1. Place the o/Iswitch into the
I“start/on” position. (Picture 1)
2. Choke the engine (or close
the choke. Move choke to the
closed position.) (Picture 2)
3. Push primer bulb 6 times.
(Picture 3)
4. Pull grip slowly until you
feel resistance then pull briskly.
(Picture 4)
5. Once the engine is running,
slowly push the choke lever down
to the run position—the engine
will continue to run. (Picture 5)
Follow these steps whenever you
are starting the engine “cold”, or
when the engine has run dry and
you have just added fuel.
Remember, always use short,
brisk pulls. Don’t give the cord a
long, forceful yank. And, do not
let the cord snap back into the
starter housing.
Warm Engine
1. Push ignition switch to I
“start/on” position.
2. Pull grip slowly until you
feel resistance then pull briskly.
Make sure the choke is in the
open, or run, position.
NOTE: When the choke is
closed, never pull the cord more
than four or five times. Over-
pulling may cause flooding.
How to Stop the Engine
Simply push the o/I“stop/ start”
switch to “o” (Picture 6). This will
stop the engine instantly. If it
should ever fail to do so, just pull
the choke up to the closed
position. The engine will stop
at once.
About the Choke
The choke controls the amount
of air drawn into the engine. Your
tiller will run only if the choke
is open.
WARNING
AVOID ACCIDENTAL BLADE
ENGAGEMENT
DO NOT SQUEEZE THE THROTTLE
TRIGGER WHEN STARTING.
MAINTAIN PROPER IDLE SPEED
ADJUSTMENT (2 00-3100 RPM)
10
WARNING • DANGER
I F ENGINE DOES NOT STOP WHEN SWITCH IS PUT IN THE STOP POSITION,
RELEASE THE THROTTLE, ALLOW ENGINE TO IDLE. PUT THE TILLER DOWN,
AND SLIDE THE CHOKE LEVER FORWARD TO THE COLD START (CLOSED)
POSITION. CHECK AND RETURN IGNITION SWITCH TO ON POSITION
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE AGAIN.
Picture 4 Picture 5 Picture 6
Picture 1 Picture 2 Picture 3
S ar ing
! !
!!
MPORTANT!
t is normal for your
4 stroke engine to smoke for
the first minute or two of
operation, however it is not
necessary for this to occur
every time. This is a result of
the oil being pulled through
the engine for lubrication.
WARNING
DO NOT OPERATE IN A CLOSED
OR CONFINED AREA
! !
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 10

A Special Feature
(with the idle set properly
and the engine running)
ven when the engine is
running, the tines won’t turn
unless you squeeze the throttle
lever on the handlebars. And,
when you release the throttle lever,
the tines will stop.
A Tip for Extending
Your Engine’s Life
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.
Operation
With engine running, and both
hands on the handles, press the
throttle lock out button (Picture 1),
then squeeze the throttle trigger
gradually to increase the engine
speed and engage the tines.
NOTE: This step must be
repeated each time your tiller
trigger is released.
How to get your tiller
to your garden
NOTE: Once the throttle trigger
is squeezed, you can release the
lockout button (Picture 2).
Walk it.
Once your tiller is running, you
can “walk” it to your garden. Just
squeeze the throttle lever gently
and let the tiller “tip-toe” across
your yard on its tines. It won’t
hurt your lawn or driveway.
(Picture 3)
Carry t.
Make sure the engine is off.
Then use one hand to grasp the
convenient carrying handle. Use
the other hand to hold the
handlebars. (Picture 4) Then lift
your tiller and carry it to your
garden. Since it weighs only 30
pounds, it won’t strain your
muscles or tire you out!
Take t for a Ride.
You can easily transport your
MANTIS®XP 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.
11
Addi ional Informa ion
Picture 3 Picture 4
Picture 1 Picture 2
Picture 5
WARNING
NEVER CARRY YOUR TILLER AS
THE PERSON IN PICTURE IS
DOING. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL
SUFFER SERIOUS INJURY.
!!
WARNING
NEVER TRANSPORT TILLER WITH
GAS IN FUEL TANK IN TRUNK OF
CAR OR TRUCK FOR THIS COULD
CAUSE EXPLOSION OR FIRE
!!
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 11

Tilling
WARNING • DANGER
IF YOUR TINES GET JAMMED OR ENTANGLED, SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AT ONCE.
REMOVE THE OBSTRUCTION WHILE THE ENGINE IS OFF.
NEVER TRY TO REMOVE AN OBSTRUCTION WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
SERIOUS INJURY CAN RESULT.
! !
12
Tilling
Now You’re Ready to
Use Your MANT S®XP
Tiller.
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. (Picture 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 MANT S XP Tiller
like a Vacuum Cleaner.
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! (Picture 2)
You Can Even
Control Depth.
For Deeper 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. (Picture 3)
For Shallow Tilling:
Switch the tines to the cultivating
position. (See page 13 to learn how.) Then
move your Tiller quickly over your soil
surface.
For Big Weeds or Tough Roots:
Let your Tiller rock back and forth over
the tough spot, until the tines slice
through the weed or root.
Your MANT S XP Tiller
Handles Special Tilling Projects.
Want to turn part of your lawn into a
colorful flower border? Your MANTIS XP
Tiller makes it easy! Just run your Tiller
back and forth until the sod begins to
break up. Then continue tilling. Your
Tiller will chop the clumps of sod until
they’re fine. Then, it will work them into
the soil. Pretty soon, you’ll have a soft,
fresh planting bed.
WARNING • DANGER
THE OPERATOR OF THIS TILLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR
ACCIDENTS OR HAZARDS OCCURRING TO HIMSELF, OTHER PEOPLE
OR THEIR PROPERTY.
Pictur 1
Pictur 2
Pictur 3
! !
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 12

How about a family-
size vegetable garden?
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.
Your MANT S XP
Tiller Makes Weeding
a Pleasure!
As a tiller, your MANTIS XP
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 switch the tines
to the weeding position. This
takes less than a few minutes.
Then, your MANTIS XP
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
To switch between tilling and
cultivating, you will simply move
the tines from one side of the
tiller to the other.
When the tines are in the
tilling position, they will appear
as shown in Picture 1. When
running, the tines rotate to the
front of the tiller and the points
of the tines will contact the
ground first, allowing it to
aggressively cut and break the
soil for tilling.
When the tines are in the
cultivating position, they will
appear as shown in Picture 2. In
this position, when the tines rotate,
the long flat part of the teeth will
contact the ground first for a less
aggressive cultivating action.
1. First, you will need to
understand that your Mantis XP
has an inner and an outer set of
tines on each side of the tiller as
shown in Picture 3
2. Make sure the tiller is
turned off.
3. Remove the retaining pins
from the outer set of tines (Picture
4) and remove the outer tines.
4. Only after you have removed
the outer set of tines, then remove
the retaining pins from the inner
tines and remove the retaining
pins from the inner tines and
remove the inner tines from the
transmission axle (Picture 5)
5. Place the right-side set of
inner tines onto the left-side. The
"D" shaped hole should be to the
outside. Make sure the tine
retaining pin is installed. Repeat
for the other side
6. Place the right side set of
outer tines onto the left-side axle.
The "D" shaped hole should be
to the outside and insert the tine
retaining pin. Repeat for the
other side.
Your Mantis XP tiller also has
the ability to till or cultivate at
either a 9" or 16" width. The
tiller is sent to you set up for 16".
To run the tiller at a 9" width,
simply remove the inner and
outer tines as noted above. Then
just put the outer tines back onto
the transmission axel and secure
with a retaining pin on each side.
13
Tilling
WARNING • DANGER
DO NOT REACH YOUR FINGERS
AND\OR HAND BETWEEN
THE TINE BLADES.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE
THE INNER SET OF TINES UNTIL
YOU HAVE FIRST REMOVED THE
OUTER SET OF TINES.
MPORTANT
To change the tines on your
4 Stroke Mantis®XP Tiller,
rotate the handles forward and
allow tiller to rest on the engine.
! !
Picture 4 Picture 5
Picture 2 Picture 3
Picture 1
Inner Tine
Outer Tine
! !
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 13

14
Now You’re Ready to
Cultivate or Weed.
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!
Your Mantis®XP Tiller
Can Weed Between
Narrow Rows!
Your Mantis XP Tiller is a
precision weeder that can easily fit
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.
Your Mantis XP Tiller weeds six*
to nine inches wide. 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!
*With optional Planter
Furrower attachment.
(Item #6222)
To do this you must take off the
tine assemblies (both sides) and
replace with only the outer set of
tines. Do not operate with only the
inner set of tines. Damage will
occur using this set of tines.
Cul iva ing
Cleaning he Tines
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.
The installed weed reducer will
help, but 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,
turn the engine off completely
before trying to clear them.
From time to time, you may want
to remove the tines to get them
completely clean. To do this, please
follow steps 1-4 as noted under
“How to Switch From Tilling to
Cultivating Position” on page 13.
Then, you can remove any weeds,
stones, or mud from the tines. As
always, please be sure to remove the
outer tines before removing the inner
tines. Also, do not reach your fingers
and\or hand in between the tine
blades. When finished, simply return
the tines to their starting positions.
The optional Tine Detangler
(Item #1322) will clear tines in a
jiffy. Contact your local authorized
Mantis®dealer or call 1-800-366-
6268 to order.
Handle
Fuel Tank
Tine Rotation
Tine Teeth
Handle
Fuel Tank
Tine Rotation
Tine Teeth
Front
Back Front
Back
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 14

15
Main enance
How to Check the Grease Level
nside the Worm Gear Housing
When we built your Mantis®XP tiller, we added
grease to properly lubricate the transmission for the
first 10 hours of operation. As part of the regular
maintenance of your tiller, it is imperative that
you inspect the grease level and add grease if
necessary. This will help your tiller give you years
of excellent usage.
You will need to add grease with a grease gun
using the fitting at the front of the transmission
(Picture 1). You should add grease through this
fitting after the first 10 hours of operation and
then every 50 hours of use. To add grease through
the grease fitting:
1. Make sure the tiller is turned off and remove
the tines.
2. Place the tiller front side down on an elevated
surface and remove the 4 screws holding the
transmission cover (Picture 2).
3. Remove the transmission cover and gasket.
Inspect the grease level. If it is below the edge of the
gear housing, you will need to add grease. If it is
already flush with this edge, you do not need to add
grease. DO NOT OVERF LL. Too much grease can
create pressure which can cause seals to fail or the
clutch to slip.
4. If grease is needed, remove the protective cap
from the grease fitting, attach the grease gun, and
slowly add grease until the level is flush with the
edge of the transmission (Picture 3).
5. Return the grease fitting protective cover, gasket,
and transmission cover with the 4 original screws.
In between adding grease with the grease gun, you
should inspect the grease level after approximately
10 hours of operation. If grease is needed, you can
add grease directly to the opening in the transmission
using Mantis item number 9985.
Picture 1 Picture 2
Picture 3
WARNING
PREMATURE TRANSMISISSION FAILURE CAN OCCUR IF
PROPER GREASE LEVEL IS NOT BE MAINTAINED
!!
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 15

What to do Just in Case…
At some point, you may find that
the tines won’t turn when you
squeeze 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. The flange
bolt (Key #12, Page 18) may have
come loose and lifted the engine up.
If this happened you’ll notice a
gap between the bottom of the
engine flange (Key #43, Page 18)
and the top of the worm gear
housing. (Picture 3)
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 18). Inside the flange housing,
you’ll find the clutch drum (Key
#57, Page 18). Make sure the hex
head lines up with the clutch drum
inside the flange housing.
Then put the engine back on the
worm gear housing. Make sure the
plastic carrying handle is not under
the engine.
If you’ve followed these steps
properly, there will be no gap between
the engine flange and the worm gear
housing. (Picture 4) Make sure you
tighten the flange bolt!
16
Check the Air Filter Often
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.
How to Check, Clean and
Change the Air Filter
1. The air filter is held in the
air cleaner in a black housing on
the side of the tiller, behind the
gas tank cap.
2. Squeeze the two locking tabs
at the rear of the air cleaner cover
(Picture 1) and swing the cover
towards the front of the engine to
open it
3. The air filter is the dark
sponge like material on the inside
ofthe air cleaner. Check whether it
is soiled or moist.
4. If the air filter needs to be
cleaned or no longer fits properly,
simply remove it by carefully
peeling it out of the air cleaner
(Picture 2)
5. To clean the air filter
a. Clean the filter element in
warm soapy water, rinse and
allow to dry thoroughly. Or,
clean in a non-flammable
solvent and allow to dry.
b. Dip the filter element in clean
engine oil, then squeeze out all
excess oil. The engine will
smoke when started if too much
oil is left in the element
c. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner
body and cover, using a moist
rag. Be careful to prevent dirt
from entering the carburetor.
6. Insert your clean filter inside
the air cleaner.
MPORTANT! Make sure the
filter is "seated" properly in the
cover. The filter must fit snugly
inside the opening that holds the
filter in place. nstalling the
filter incorrectly will cause
engine damage and void the
warranty. Fit the cover back
over the air cleaner and snap
the two locking tabs.
MPORTANT NOTE:
A dirty air cleaner will restrict
air flow to the carburetor,
reducing engine performance.
f you operate the engine in very
dusty areas, clean the air filter
element more often then
specified in the Maintenance
section.
MPORTANT NOTE:
Operating the engine without an
air filter element, or with a
damaged air filter element, will
allow dirt to enter the engine,
causing rapid engine wear. This
type of damage is not covered
by the Limited Warranty.
Note:
Please check the lip on the Air
Cleaner Co er. If the lip is chipped
or cracked, it should be replaced.
This will pre ent dirt from being
ingested through the carburetor
into the inside of the engine.
Picture 1 Pictur 2
Main enance
Picture 3. Note how the engine doesn’t sit all
the way down on the transmission.
Picture 4. Note how the engine sits all the way
down on the transmission.
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 16

ach fall, or before you store
your Mantis®XP Tiller for any
long period, be sure to take these
measures:
1. Do not store your Tiller with
fuel still in it. ven under ideal
conditions, stored fuel containing
ethanol or MTB 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. Therefore,
when you’re ready to store your
Tiller, or will not be using it for
more than 2 weeks, drain the fuel
tank completely.
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 the spark plug
wire and remove the spark plug.
Slowly pull the starter cord once.
4. Inspect the spark plug, and if
necessary, clean it. If you need to
replace it, buy a NGK-CMR5H.
5 Install the spark plug, but
leave the spark plug wire
disconnected.
6. Clean the air filter as described in
your 4 Stroke Tiller ngine Manual.
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. Check the grease level in the
worm gear housing as described on
page 15.
11. 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 or 4
Stroke Tiller dealer.
12. 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.
13. To fold the handles, follow
these easy steps: Loosen the
handle knobs (#53) then fold the
handles forward. Tighten knob
securely. Your handles are now
folded and ready to store in a
smaller area.
14. Do you have fuel left over
from last season? Dispose of it
properly. Buy fresh oil and
gasoline next season.
15. Remove Tilling Tines or
attachments and lightly oil tine
shaft at least once a year.
You may store your Mantis
Tiller with the handles upright as
in Picture 1 or with the handles
folded down, as in Picture 2.
17
S orage
WARNING • DANGER
DO NOT STORE IN AN AREA WHERE FUEL FUMES MAY
ACCUMULATE AND REACH A FLAME OR SPARK.
Picture 1 Picture 2
!!
MPORTANT
t is important to store your 4 Stroke Mantis Tiller in an upright
position. Laying the Tiller on its side will cause the oil to leak out
of the engine through the air cleaner case.
!!
Do not store the tiller
lying flat on its front,
back, or side.
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 17

12
43
60
56
57
61
62
21
48
63
47
78
47
41
67
41
40
44
68
50
66
41
41
46
20
39
64
65
23
70
69
#
18
Man is®XP Tiller Assembly
TEM QTY. PART # DESCR PT ON / REMARKS
1 1 400257 TRIGGER HANDLE ASSM. RH
2 1 400255 HANDLE ASSM. LH
6 2 400224 LOWER HANDLE -FOLD DOWN
7 1 400633 LABEL, BRACE FRONT
8 1 400306 HANDLE BRACE
12 1 910502 10-32 X 3/4 - FLANGED BOLT
13 2 478 THROTTLE CLI
20 1 400312 FENDER GUARD
21 1 400916 ENGINE ASSY – 35CC 4 STROKE
22* 1 468 DRIVE SHAFT
23 1 400301 WORM GEAR HOUSING
24 1 436 GASKET
25 1 437A HOUSING COVER
26 4 651 RD. HD. SELF TA ING SCREW
27 1 423 ROLLER BEARING
28 2 425 WORM BEARING RACE
29 1 424 WORM THRUST BEARING
30 1 422 WORM SHAFT
31 1 426 WORM DISK
TEM QTY. PART # DESCR PT ON / REMARKS
32 1 428 RETAINING RING
33 1 429 WORM GEAR
34 1 431 TINE SHAFT
35 2 430 WORM GEAR THRUST WASHER
36 2 432 WORM GEAR BEARING
37 2 434 BEARING SEAL
38 2 435 BEARING SEAL RETAINER
39 1 400328 TINE ASSY - OUTER RIGHT
40 1 400327 TINE ASSY - OUTER LEFT
41 4 418-1 TINE RETAINING HAIR IN
42 1 400315 CARRYING HANDLE
43 1 400307 ENGINE ADA TER
44 1 400631 TINE LABEL
45 1 458 ROLLER BEARING
46 1 4058 MANTIS LABEL
47 2 410 CA SCREW 1/4-20 X 1" LG.
48 4 972 LOCK NUT 1/4 - 20
49 2 470 1/4-20 X 3” BOLT
50 2 M9452 BOLT 1/4 - 20 X 1/2" LG.
TEM QTY. PART # DESCR PT ON / REMARKS
51 2 377 HANDLE CLAM
52 2 400509 BOLT
53 2 400510 KNOB
54 2 400230 LUG
55 1 400302 TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY
56 1 400132 BEARING
57 1 400308 CLUTCH DRUM
60 4 400529 M6 X 33MM - FLANGED BOLT
61 1 400524 RETAINING RING
62 1 400310 THROTTLE STO HONDA 35CC
63 1 400634 LABEL WARNING
64 1 400313 DUST CA FOR GREASE FITTING
65 1 400300 GREASE FITTING
66 1 400330 TINE ASSY. INNER RIGHT
67 1 400329 TINE ASSY. INNER LEFT
68 2 4092 WEED RECYCLER
69# 1 410158 KICKSTAND LEG ASSY.
70# 1 410113 HARDWARE FOR KICKSTAND
71 2 400635 LABEL, X TINE WARNING
* ALSO IN KEY #55 – 400302
# IF A LICABLE
71
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 18

19
400332
Spare Parts
1. Set of two inner tines
2. Set of two outer tines
400331
400333
3. Set of four tines (inner and outer)
66
66
39
39
40
40
67
67
p/n p/n
p/n
NOTES: _________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 19

20
MANTIS®XP TILLER LIMITED WARRANTY
Specifications, descriptions, and illustrative material in this literature are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change without notice.
P/N 401764 4 /10
rinted in USA
MANTIS xt nds this limit d warranty against d f cts in mat rial
and workmanship for a p riod of fiv (5) y ars for normal
rsid ntial purpos s and two (2) y ars for comm rcial us from th
dat of purchas , to th first r tail purchas r and ach subs qu nt
own r, during th warranty p riod. This warranty cov rs all
portions of th MANTIS XP TILLER.
MANTIS will r pair or r plac , at its option, any part or parts of th
product prov n to b d f ctiv in mat rial or workmanship und r
normal usag during th warranty p riod. Warranty r pairs and
r plac m nts will b mad without charg for parts or labor. All
parts r plac d und r warranty will b consid r d as part of th
original product, and any warranty on th r plac d parts will xpir
coincid nt with th original product warranty. If you think your
MANTIS XP TILLER is d f ctiv in mat rial or workmanship, you
must s nd it, along with your proof of purchas (sal s r c ipt) to:
Mantis
1028 Str t Road
Southampton, PA 18966
You ar r sponsibl for pickup and d liv ry charg s; th product
must b r turn d to us postag paid.
MANTIS assum s no r sponsibility in th v nt that th product was
not ass mbl d or us d in complianc with any ass mbly, car , saf ty,
or op rating instructions contain d in th Own r’s Manual or
accompanying th product; was not us d with r asonabl car or
r quir s r plac m nt or r pair du to accid nts or lack of prop r
maint nanc ; or was misus d, alt r d, us d for oth r than normal or
int nd d purpos s. This warranty do s not cov r damag du to
normal w ar and t ar.
You must maintain your MANTIS XP TILLER by following th
maint nanc proc dur s
d scrib d in th own r’s manual. Such routin maint nanc ,
wh th r p rform d by you or a d al r, is at your xp ns .
MANTIS MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR
REPRESENTATIONS EXCEPT THOSE CONTAINED HEREIN.
THE DURATION OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY, INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS WRITTEN
LIMITED WARRANTY. MANTIS DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL AND/OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THE MANTIS PRODUCTS
COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY. SOME STATES DO NOT
ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED
WARRANTY LASTS AND/OR DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION
OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, SO THAT ABOVE LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS
MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU
SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER
RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATES TO STATE.
MANTIS
1 28 Street Road
Southampton, PA 18966
(215) 355-97
© 2010 Mantis, Division of Schiller Grounds Care, Inc.
401764 X Tiller-Cultivator_manual 5/18/10 10:51 AM age 20