Troy-Bilt 12217 User manual

$4.50
Models
12217 - 3.5 HP TUFFY®
12208 -4.5 HP Super TUFFY®
12209-5.5 HP BRONCO ™
12210-6.5 HP Super BRONCO ™
Owner’s Manual
REAR-TINE TILLERS
• Safety
• Assembly
• Controls
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Parts List
GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED

Dear Owner:
Table of Contents
You now own one of the finest standard-rotating-tine tillers
available. Your new tiller allows you to till and cultivate your
garden with ease, and accomplish dozens of other property
management projects as well. Your tiller is famous for its
ruggedness, performance and high-quality engineering. We
know you’ll enjoy using it.
Please carefully read this Manual. It tells you how to safely
and easily assemble, operate and maintain your machine
(four tiller models are covered in this Manual... be sure to
use only the information appropriate to your tiller model).
Be sure that you and any other operators carefully follow
the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to
do so could result in personal injury or property damage.
Of course, if you should ever have any problems or
questions, please contact your local authorized dealer or
call the Factory (see back cover of this Manual). We want to
be sure that you are completely satisfied at all times.
NOTE: Be sure to fill out and return the Warranty Registra¬
tion Card that was supplied with this Manual.
See Back Cover for
Customer Service Information
Safety Alert Symbol
This is a safety alert symbol. It is used in this
manual and on the unit to alert you to
potential hazards. When you see this symbol,
read and obey the message that follows it.
Failure to obey safety messages could result in personal
injury or property damage.
This machine meets voluntary safety standard B71.8
- 1996, which is sponsored by the Outdoor Power
Equipment Institute, Inc., and is published by the
American National Standards Institute.
A WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
SECTION 1: SAFETY. 3
Safety Decals. 5
SECTION 2: ASSEMBLY. 6
Attach Handlebar. 7
Move Tiller Off Shipping Platform. 7
Install Forward Clutch Cable. 8
Install Reverse Clutch Cable (Models 12209/12210). 9
Check Level of Transmission Gear Oil. 9
Add Motor Oil to Engine. 9
Check Hardware for Tightness. 9
Check Air Pressure in Tires. 9
SECTION 3: FEATURES & CONTROLS. 10
Wheel Drive Pins. 10
Forward Clutch Bail. 11
Reverse Clutch Control (Models 12209/12210). 11
Depth Regulator. 12
Handlebar Height Adjustment. 12
SECTION 4: OPERATION .. 13
Break-In Operation. 13
Starting and Stopping the Engine. 13
Operating the Tiller. 14
Tilling Tips & Techniques. 16
Power Composting. 18
Loading and Unloading the Tiller. 18
SECTION 5: MAINTENANCE . 19
Required Maintenance Schedule. 19
Tiller Lubrication. 20
Check for Oil Leaks. 20
Check Hardware. 20
Check Tire Pressure. 20
Transmission Gear Oil Service. 20
Bolo Tines. 21
Checking and Adjusting Forward Drive Beit Tension. 22
Forward Clutch Bail Adjustment. 22
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Drive Belt
Tension (Models 12209/12210). 23
Engine Cleaning. 23
Air Cleaner Service. 23
Engine Oil Service. 24
Spark Plug Service. 24
Spark Arrester Screen Service. 24
Carburetor/Governor Control Adjustments. 24
Off Season Storage... 24
Troubleshooting. 25
Tiller Attachments... 25
PARTS LIST .. 26
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION.. Back Cover
2

mm
i
i Safety
SPARK ARRESTER WARNING TO RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA AND SEVERAL OTHER STATES
Under California law, and under the laws of several other states, you are not permitted to operate an
internal combustion engine using hydrocarbon fuels on any forest, brush, hay, grain, or grass
covered land; or land covered by any flammable agricultural crop without an engine spark arrester in
continuous effective working order.
The engine on the unit is an internal combustion engine which burns gasoline, a hydrocarbon fuel, and must be equipped with a
spark arrester muffler in continuous effective working order. The spark arrester must be attached to the engine exhaust system in
such a manner that flames or heat from the system will not ignite flammable material. Failure of the owner/operator of the unit to
comply with this regulation is a misdemeanor under California law (and other states) and may also be a violation of other state
and/or federal regulations, laws, ordinances or codes. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information
about which regulations apply in your area.
SIX
Training
1. Carefully read this
Owner’s Manual, the
separate Engine Owner’s
Manual, and any other literature you may
receive. Be thoroughly familiar with the
controls and the proper use of the tiller
and its engine. Know how to stop the unit
and disengage the controls quickly.
2. Never allow children to operate the
tiller. Never allow adults to operate the
tiller without proper instruction.
3. Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, particularly children and pets.
4. Keep in mind that the operator or user
is responsible for accidents or hazards
occurring to other people, their property,
and themselves.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the
tiller is to be used and remove ail foreign
objects.
2. Be sure all tiller controls are released
and both wheels are in the Wheel Drive
position before starting the engine.
3. Do not operate the tiller without
wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid
loose garments or jewelry that could get
caught in moving parts.
4. Do not operate the tiller when barefoot
or wearing sandals, sneakers, or light
footwear. Wear protective footwear that
will improve footing on slippery surfaces.
5. Do not till near underground electric
cables, telephone lines, pipes or hoses. If
in doubt, contact your telephone or utility
company.
6. Warning: Handle fuel with care; it is
highly flammable and its vapors are
explosive. Be sure to take the following
precautions:
a. Store fuel in containers specifically
designed for this purpose.
b. The gas cap shall never be removed
or fuel added while the engine is
running. Allow the engine to cool
for several minutes before adding
fuel.
c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars,
pipes, open flames, and sparks
away from the fuel tank and fuel
container.
d. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme
care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.
Use a funnel or spout to prevent
spillage.
e. Replace all fuel tank and container
caps securely.
f. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to
start the engine, but move the
machine away from the area of
spillage and avoid creating any
source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
7. N ever make adjustments when engine
is running (unless recommended by
manufacturer).
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts.
2. Exercise extreme caution when on or
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do
not carry passengers.
3. After striking a foreign object, stop the
engine, remove the wire from the spark
plug wire and prevent it from touching
the spark plug. Thoroughly inspect the
machine for any damage and repair the
damage before restarting and operating
the machine.
4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or
falling.
5. If the unit should start to vibrate abnor¬
mally, stop the engine, disconnect the
spark plug wire and prevent it from
touching the spark plug, and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
6. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire and prevent it from touching
the spark plug whenever you leave the
operating position, before unclogging the
tines, or when making any repairs, adjust¬
ments or inspections.
3

Section 1: Safety
7. Take all possible precautions when
leaving the machine unattended. Stop the
engine. Disconnect spark plug wire and
move it away from the spark plug. Be
sure both wheels are in the Wheel Drive
position.
8. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspect¬
ing, stop the engine and make certain all
moving parts have stopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and prevent it from
touching the spark plug to prevent acci¬
dental starting.
9. The flap on the tine hood must be
down when operating the tiller.
10. Never use the tiller unless proper
guards, plates, or other safety protective
devices are in place.
11. Do not run engine in an enclosed
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide gas, a deadly poison that is
odorless, colorless, and tasteless.
12. Keep children and pets away.
13. Never operate the tiller under
engine power if the wheels are in the
Freewheel position. In the Freewheel
position, the wheels will not hold the tiller
back and the revolving tines could propel
the tiller rapidly, possibly causing loss of
control. Always engage the wheels with
the wheel drive pins in the Wheel Drive
position before starting the engine or
engaging the tines/wheels with the
Forward Clutch Bail (all Models) or the
Reverse Clutch control (Models
12209/12210 only).
14. Be aware that the tiller may unex¬
pectedly bounce upward or jump
forward if the tines should strike
extremely hard packed soil, frozen
ground, or buried obstacles like large
stones, roots, or stumps. If in doubt
about the tilling conditions, always use
the following operating precautions to
assist you in maintaining control of the
tiller:
a. Walk behind and to one side of the
tiller, using one hand on the han¬
dlebars. Relax your arm, but use a
secure hand grip.
b. Use shallower depth regulator
settings, working gradually
deeper with each pass.
c. Use slower engine speeds.
d. Clear the tilling area of all large
stones, roots and other debris.
e. Avoid using downward pressure
on handlebars. If need be, use
slight upward pressure to keep the
tines from digging too deeply.
f. Before contacting hard packed soil
at the end of a row, reduce engine
speed and lift handlebars to raise
tines out of the soil.
g. In an emergency, stop tines and
wheels by releasing whichever
clutch control is engaged. Do not
attempt to restrain the tiller.
15. Do not overload the tiller’s capacity
by attempting to till too deeply at too fast
a rate.
16. Never operate the tiller at high
transport speeds on hard or slippery
surfaces. Look behind and use care when
backing up.
17. Do not operate the tiller on a slope
that is too steep for safety. When on
slopes, slow down and make sure you
have good footing. Never permit the tiller
to freewheel down slopes.
18. Never allow bystanders near the unit.
19. Only use attachments and acces¬
sories that are approved by the manufac¬
turer of the tiller.
20. Use tiller attachments and acces¬
sories when recommended.
21 . Never operate the tiller without good
visibility or light.
22. Never operate the tiller if you are
tired, or under the influence of alcohol,
drugs or medication.
23. Operators shall not tamper with the
engine-governor settings on the machine;
the governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed to protect the engine and
all moving parts from damage caused by
overspeed. Authorized service shall be
sought if a problem exists.
24. Do not touch engine parts which may
be hot from operation. Let parts cool
down sufficiently.
25. Please remember: You can always
stop the tines and wheels by releasing the
Forward Clutch Bail or on Models 12209
and 12210 the Reverse Clutch control,
(whichever control is engaged), or by
moving the ignition switch and/or throttle
control lever on the engine to “OFF" or
“STOP”.
26. To load or unload the tiller, see the
instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.
27. Use extreme caution when reversing
or pulling the machine towards you.
28. Start the engine carefully according to
instructions and with feet well away from
the tines.
29. Never pick up or carry a machine
while the engine is running.
Maintenance and Storage
1. Keep the tiller, attachments and acces¬
sories in safe working condition.
2. Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure the equipment is in safe working
condition.
3. Never store the tiller with fuel in the
fuel tank inside a building where ignition
sources are present such as hot water
and space heaters, furnaces, clothes
dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc.).
Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
4. To reduce the chances of a fire hazard,
keep the engine free of grass, leaves, or
excessive grease.
5. Store gasoline in a cool, well-ventilated
area, safely away from any spark- or
flame-producing equipment. Store
gasoline in an approved container, safely
away from the reach of children.
6. Refer to the Maintenance sections of
this Manual and the separate Engine
Owner’s Manual for instructions if the
tiller is to be stored for an extended
period.
7. Never perform maintenance while the
engine is running or the spark plug wire
is connected, except when specifically
instructed to do so.
8. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do
this outdoors.
4

Section 1: Safety
Decals
For your safety and the safety of
others, various safety and opera¬
tional decals are located on your
unit (see Figure 1).
Keep the decals clean and legible at
all times. Contact your local
service dealer or the factory for
replacements if any decals are
damaged or missing.
Refer to the Parts List pages in this
Manual for decal locations, descrip¬
tions and part numbers.
Hot Surfaces/Moving Beits
Warning (on belt cover)
Starting Stabilization
Message (on engine)
Warning Messages
Forward Clutch Bail
Operating Instruction
Reverse Clutch Control
Operating Instruction
(Models 12209/12210)
Figure 1: Location of Safety and Operating Decals (5.5HP Model shown).
Operating Symbols
H
l+l
CHOKE
OFF
R <6
Various symbols (shown here, with word
descriptions) are used on the tiller and engine.
CHOKE
ON
REVERSE ^
ROTATING
(f~t fQ
Your unit may not have all of the symbols.
TINES
-Ac ^
BAIL
ENGAGED
BAIL
DISENGAGED
FAST SLOW STQp
TILLER DIRECTION
LEVER DIRECTION
A WARNING
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:
• READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL.
• KNOW LOCATIONS AND FUNCTIONS OF ALL CONTROLS.
• KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES AND SHIELDS IN PLACE AND WORKING.
• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR UNINSTRUCTED ADULTS TO OPERATE TILLER.
• SHUT OFF ENGINE AND DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE MANUALLY UNCLOG¬
GING TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.
• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY FROM MACHINE.
• KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.
• USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN REVERSING OR PULLING THE MACHINE TOWARDS YOU.
5

Section
2 Assembly
A WARNING
To prevent personal injury or property
damage, do not start the engine until
all assembly steps are complete and
you have read and understand the
safety and operating instructions in this
manual.
Introduction
Carefully follow these assembly steps to
correctly prepare your tiller for use. It is
recommended that you read this Section
in its entirety before beginning assembly,
MOTE: Various tiller models are presented
in this Manual. Use only the information
appropriate for your tiller model.
Inspect unit
Inspect the unit and carton for damage
immediately after delivery. Contact the
carrier (trucking company) if you find or
suspect damage. Inform them of the
damage and request instructions for filing
a claim. To protect your rights, put your
claim in writing and mail a copy to the
carrier within 15 days after the unit has
been delivered. Contact us at the factory if
you need assistance in this matter.
STEP 1: Unpacking Instructions
NOTE: Be careful not to severely bend any
of the control cables on the unit.
1. Remove any cardboard inserts and
packaging material from the carton.
Remove any staples from the bottom of
the carton and remove the carton.
2. The tiller is heavy (approximately 133
lbs.). Do not attempt to remove it from
the shipping platform until instructed to
do so in these “Assembly” steps.
3. Remove all unassembled parts and
the separate hardware bag from the
carton. Check that you have the items
listed below (contact your local dealer or
the factory if any items are missing or
damaged). NOTE: Use the screw length
template (Fig. 2-1) to identify screws.
Loose Parts List
Qty. Description
1 Handlebar Support (see A, Fig. 2-2,
page 7)
1 Handlebar Assembly (see K, Fig. 2-2)
The following items
are in the hardware bag:
1 Slotted hd, screw, #10-24 x 2"
1 Hex hd. screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4”
6 Hex hd. screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"
2 Hex hd. screw, 3/8-16 x 3/4"
2 Flat washer, 3/8"
6 Split lockwasher, 5/16"
1 Hex locknut, 1/4"-20
6 Hex nut, 5/16"-18
1 Hex nut, #10-24
2 Hex locknut, 3/8“-16
1 Spring, cable (see W, Fig. 2-5,
page 8)
1 Bracket, forward clutch cable (see
P, Fig. 2-4, page 8)
IMPORTANT: Motor oil must be added to
the engine crankcase before the engine is
started. Follow the instructions in this
“Assembly” Section and in the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual.
NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the tiller
are as viewed from the operator’s
position behind the handlebars.
Tools/Materials Needed
for Assembly
(1) 3/8” open-end wrench*
(2) 7/16" open-end wrench*
(2) 1/2" open-end wrench*
(2) 9/16" open-end wrench*
(1) Large adjustable wrench (Models
12209/12210 only)
(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties)
(1) Ruler (for belt tension check)
(1) Block of wood (to support tiller
when removing wheels)
(1) Tire pressure gauge (for models with
pneumatic tires)
(1) Clean oil funnel
(1) Clean, high-quality motor oil. Refer
to the Engine Owner’s Manual for
motor oil specifications and quantity
required.
* Adjustable wrenches may be used.
Figure 2-1: To identify length of screw,
place screw on template as shown and
measure distance between bottom of screw
head and tip of screw.
6

Section 2: Assembly
STEP 2: Attach Handlebar
1. Loosely attach the two legs of the
handlebar support (A, Fig. 2-2) to the
inner sides ot the tiller frame using two
3/8"-16 x 3/4“ hex hd. screws (B), 3/8” flat
washers (C) and 3/8"-16 hex locknuts (D).
2. There are three height adjustment holes
in the two handlebar support brackets (E
and F, Fig. 2-2). Choose a setting that will
position the handlebars at approximately
waist level when the tines are 3"-4" into
the soil. Loosely attach the support
brackets to the handlebar support (A)
using two 5/16"-18x1 -1/2" screws (G),
5/16" split lockwashers (H) and 5/16“-18
hex nuts (I). NOTE: If a support bracket
will not move, loosen attaching screw (J)
and nut.
3. Attach the handlebar assembly (K) to
the handlebar support (A) using four
5/16"-18 x 1-1/2” screws (G), 5/16” split
lockwashers (H) and 5/16"-18 hex nuts (I).
Tighten the four screws securely.
4. Tighten all handlebar mounting
hardware securely.
STEP 3: Move Tiller Off Shipping
Platform
To move the tiller without the engine
running, put the wheels in the
FREEWHEEL position, as described below.
1. Use a sturdy block under the transmis¬
sion to raise one wheel about 1” off the
ground.
2. Remove the hairpin cotter (L, Fig. 2-3)
and wheel drive pin (M). Slide the wheel
inward on the wheel shaft (N). Reinstall
the wheel drive pin through the wheel
shaft only (not through the wheel hub)
and secure it with the hairpin cotter (push
hairpin cotter in as far as it will go).
Repeat with the other wheel.
3. Using the handlebar as a lever, roll the
tiller to a flat area.
IMPORTANT: Before starting the engine,
the wheels must be placed in the WHEEL
DRIVE position (pins through wheel hubs
and wheel shaft). This procedure is
described in “Wheel Drive Pins” in
Section 3.
Fig. 2-2: Attach handlebar (5.5HP Model shown).
Fig. 2-3: Wheel in FREEWHEEL position
(wheel drive pin through wheel shaft
only).
7

Section 2: Assembly
STEP 4: Install Forward Clutch Cable
1. Attach the forward clutch cable bracket (P,
Fig. 2-4) to the handlebar support (A) with a
1/4"-20 x 1-1/4" hex hd. screw (R, Fig. 2-4) and
1/4"-20 hex locknut (S). Tighten securely.
2. Carefully unwrap the forward clutch cable
(cable without a knob) from its shipping
position and slide the thin cable wire (T, Fig. 2-
4) into the slot in the cable bracket. Push the
cable connector (U, Fig. 2-4) up through the
hole in the bracket until the groove in the
connector snaps into place.
3. Insert the #10-24x2” slotted hd. screw (V,
Fig. 2-5) into the cable spring (W) until the
screw threads extend through the spring.
4. Thread the #10-24 hex nut (Z, Fig. 2-5)
halfway onto the screw (V).
5. Thread the screw into the cable adjuster (X).
6. Hook the cable spring (W, Fig. 2-6) into the
“V”-shaped bend in the Forward Clutch Bail (Y).
7. Check for correct tension on the forward
drive belt by taking two measurements of the
cable spring, as follows:
a. With the Forward Clutch Bail (Y, Fig. 2-6) in
an open (released) position, measure the
length of the cable spring (W) from the
outermost coil to the outermost coil.
b. Lift and hold the Forward Clutch Bail against
the handlebar (see Fig. 2-7) and re-measure
the length of the coils while the spring is
under tension. The belt tension is correct if
this second measurement is between 1/16" -
to- 3/16" longer than the first measurement.
If so, turn the hex nut (Z, Fig. 2-7) tightly
against the cable adjuster (X) while prevent¬
ing the adjuster from turning.
c. If the spring length is incorrect, you must
adjust the cable tension as described in
“Checking and Adjusting Forward Drive Belt
Tension” in Section 5. Incorrect tension on
the forward drive belt can result in belt
slippage (tension too loose) or unintentional
tine movement when the clutch bail is in
Neutral (tension too tight).
Fig. 2-4: Installing forward clutch cable bracket and cable.
6
1
g
n
w—|
1
gj
j
Z-e
t — v
X-
1
Fig. 2-5: Assemble
spring and adjuster.
Fig. 2-6: Install forward clutch cable.
Hold bail against handlebar while
taking second measurement of
spring
8
Fig. 2-7: To check forward belt tension, take two measurements of the
overall length of the coils in the spring - first with the clutch bail open,
then with the dutch bail closed against the handlebar.

Section 2: Assembly
STEP 5: Install Reverse Clutch
Cable (Models 12209/12210)
1. Unwrap the reverse clutch cable (cable
with a knob, a large hex nut and a bracket
attached to it) from its shipping position
and route the cable (CC, Fig. 2-8 and Fig.
2-9) up to the handlebar. Be sure that the
cable is routed beneath the Forward
Clutch Bail.
2. Remove the two self-tapping screws
(AA, Fig. 2-8) from the handlebars,
position the reverse cable mounting
bracket (BB, Fig. 2-8) as shown, and
reinstall the two self-tapping screws.
3. Insert the cable (CC) through the slot in
the cable bracket and position the threaded
assembly so that the flat side is aligned
with the flat side of the mounting hole.
Slide the large hex nut (DD) up the cable
and tighten it securely.
Fig. 2-8: Install reverse cable bracket and
reverse clutch cable.
Fig. 2-9: Route reverse clutch cable (CC) as
shown. Attach with cable tie (EE).
4. Fasten the reverse clutch cable to the
left side handlebar with a cable tie (EE,
Fig. 2-9).
5. Test the function of the reverse clutch
cable by pulling the knob out and
releasing it. The knob should return to its
neutral position (resting against bracket).
If it doesn’t, contact your local dealer or
the factory for technical assistance.
STEP 6: Check Level of
Transmission Gear Oil
The transmission was filled with gear oil
at the factory. Flowever, you should check
the gear oil level to make certain it is
correct.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tiller if
the gear oil level is low. Doing so will
result in severe damage to the transmis¬
sion components.
1. With the tiller on level ground, pull the
Depth Regulator Lever (FF, Fig. 2-10)
back and then all the way up until the
lowest notch in the lever is engaged.
2. Remove the oil fill plug (GG, Fig. 2-11)
from the transmission housing cover and
locate the main drive shaft situated inside
the housing.
3. The gear oil level is correct if the gear
oil is approximately halfway up the side of
the main drive shaft.
4. If the gear oil level is low, add gear oil
by referring to “A. To Check the Transmis¬
sion Gear Oil Level” in Section 5.
STEP 7: Add Motor Oil to Engine
The tiller is shipped without oil in the
engine.
IMPORTANT: Do not start the engine
without first adding motor oil. Severe
engine damage will result if the engine is
run without oil.
1. Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s
Manual for engine oil specifications and
capacities.
2. With the tiller on level ground, move
the Depth Regulator Lever (FF, Fig. 2-10)
up or down until the engine is level.
3. Add motor oil as described in the
Engine Owner’s Manual.
Fig. 2-10: Adjust Depth Regulator Lever.
Fig. 2-11: Remove gear oil fill plug.
4. M ove the Depth Regulator Lever all
the way down until the highest notch is
engaged. This places the tines in the
“travel” position.
STEP 8: Check Hardware for
Tightness
Check all nuts and screws for tightness.
STEP 9: Check Air Pressure in
Tires (units with pneumatic tires)
If the tires are equipped with air valves,
check the air pressure with a tire gauge.
Deflate or inflate the tires equally to 15-
to-20 PSI (pounds per square inch). Be
sure that both tires are inflated equally or
the unit will pull to one side.
IMPORTANT: This completes the
assembly steps. Before operating your
tiller, make sure you read the following
Sections in this Manual, as well as the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual:
• Section 1: “Safety”
• Section 3: “Features and Controls”
• Section 4: “Operation”
9

Section
Features and Controls
A WARNING
Before operating your machine,
carefully read and understand all
safety, controls and operating instruc¬
tions in this Manual, the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual, and on the
decals on the machine.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury.
Introduction
This section describes the location and
function of the controls on your tiller.
Refer to the following section
“Operation” for detailed operating
instructions.
Practice using these controls, with the
engine shut off, until you understand the
operation of the controls and feel
confident with each of them.
Reverse Clutch
Control (Models
12209/12210)
Forward
Clutch Bail
Depth Regulator
|||g^'-Handlebar Height
A, \ Adjustment
Wheel Drive Pin
(on each wheel)
Figure 3-1: Features and controls (5.5HP Model shown)
IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate
engine manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s
Manual for information about the
controls on the engine.
Wheel Drive Pins
A WARNING
Never allow either of the wheels to be
in the FREEWHEEL position when the
engine is running. Always put both
wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position
before starting the engine.
Failure to comply could cause loss of
tiller control, property damage, or
personal injury.
Each wheel is equipped with a Wheel
Drive Pin (A, Figures 3-2 and 3-3) that
secures the wheel to the wheel shaft (B).
The wheels can be positioned in either a
WHEEL DRIVE or a FREEWHEEL mode.
Before starting the engine, put both
wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position by
inserting the Wheel Drive Pins through
the wheel hubs and the wheel shaft. This
“locks” the wheels to the wheel shaft,
causing the wheels to turn when either
the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse
Clutch Control (Models 12209/12210) is
engaged.
Use the FREEWHEEL mode only when the
engine is not running. In FREEWHEEL,
the Wheel Drive Pins are placed only
through the holes in the wheel shaft (not
the wheel hubs), thus allowing the wheels
to turn freely when the tiller is pushed or
pulled by hand.
To Place the Wheels in WHEEL DRIVE or
FREEWHEEL:
A WARNING
Do not place the tiller on its side when
changing the wheel drive positions as
doing so could result in gasoline
leaking from the fuel tank.
Failure to follow this instruction could
result in personal injury or property
damage.
1. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire from the spark plug and allow
the engine to cool.
2. Raise one wheel off the ground and
place a sturdy support under the
transmission.
3. Remove the hairpin cotter (C, Figures
3-2 and 3-3) from the wheel drive pin (A).
10

Section 3: Features and Controls
4. FOR WHEEL DRIVE mode (Figure 3-2):
Slide the wheel outward and align the
holes in the wheel hub (D, Figure 3-2) and
the wheel shaft (B). Insert the wheel drive
pin (A) through the wheel hub and the
wheel shaft. Secure the wheel drive pin
with the hairpin cotter (C) by pushing the
hairpin cotter in as far as it will go. Repeat
for the other wheel and then remove the
support from beneath the transmission.
5. FOR FREEWHEEL mode (Figure 3-3):
Slide the wheel inward and insert the
wheel drive pin (A, Figure 3-3) only
through the hole in the wheel shaft (B).
Secure the wheel drive pin with the
hairpin cotter (C) by pushing the hairpin
cotter in as far as it will go. Repeat for the
other wheel and then remove the support
from beneath the transmission.
*-'I
I
Figure 3-2: WHEEL DRIVE position.
A — I
i
Figure 3-3: FREEWHEEL position.
A WARNING
Before starting the engine, be sure that
both wheels are in the WHEEL DRIVE
position. See “Wheel Drive Pins” for
instructions.
Engaging the Forward Clutch Bail or the
Reverse Clutch Control (if so equipped)
when the wheels are not in the WHEEL
DRIVE position could allow the tines to
rapidly propel the tiller forward or
backward.
Failure to comply could cause loss of
tiller control, property damage, or
personal injury.
Forward Clutch Bail
The Forward Clutch Bail (E, Figure 3-4)
controls the engagement of forward drive
to the wheels and tines.
To Operate the Forward Clutch Bail:
1. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE
position (see the “WARNING” statement
above).
2. Lift and hold the bail against the
handlebar. The wheels and tines will
rotate in a forward direction.
3. Release the bail to disengage (stop)
the wheels and tines. All forward motion
will stop (the engine will continue to run).
Figure 3-4: All models have a Forward Clutch
Bail (E). Only Models 12209/12210have the
Reverse Clutch Control (F).
Reverse Clutch Control (Models
12209/12210 only)
The Reverse Clutch Control (F, Figure 3-4)
controls the engagement of reverse drive
to the wheels and tines. This reversing
feature is used for maneuvering the
tiller only - never engage the tines in
the ground while going in the reverse
direction.
To Operate the Reverse Clutch Control:
A WARNING
• Use extreme caution when reversing
or pulling the machine towards you.
Look behind to avoid obstacles.
• Never attempt to fill in reverse.
Failure to follow this warning could
result in personal injury or property
damage.
1. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE
position (see the “WARNING” statement
at the left).
2. Stop all tiller motion by releasing the
Forward Clutch Bail.
3. Lift up the handlebar until the tines
clear the ground, look behind you to avoid
any obstacles, and then pull the reverse
clutch control knob out. The wheels and
tines will rotate in a reverse direction.
4. Release the reverse clutch control
knob to disengage (stop) the wheels and
tines. All reverse motion will stop (the
engine will continue to run).
11

Section 3: Features and Controls
Depth Regulator Lever
This lever (G, Figure 3-5) controls the
tilling depth of the tines. Pull the lever
straight back and slide it up or down to
engage the notched height settings.
The highest notch (lever all the way down)
raises the tines approximately 1-1/2” off
the ground. This “travel” setting allows
the tiller to be moved without the tines
digging into the ground. Also use this
setting when starting the engine.
Move the lever upward to increase the
tilling depth. The lowest notch allows a
tilling depth of approximately 6”,
depending on soil conditions.
For best results, always begin tilling at
a very shallow depth setting and
gradually increase the tilling depth.
Figure 3-5: Depth Regulator Lever (G).
Handlebar Height Adjustment
The handlebar height is adjustable to
three different settings (see Figure 3-6).
As a general rule, adjust the handlebars
so they are at waist level when the tines
are 3"-4" into the soil.
To Adjust the Handlebars:
1. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire from the spark plug and allow
the engine to cool.
2. Remove the screws, lockwashers and
nuts, reposition the handlebars, and
reinstall the hardware.
Figure 3-6: Handlebar height adjustment.
A WARNING
• Do not attempt to till too deeply too
quickly. Gradually work down to
deeper tilling depths.
• Place the Depth Regulator Lever in
the “travel” position before starting
the engine. This position prevents
the tines from touching the ground
until you are ready to begin tilling.
Failure to follow this warning could
result in personal injury or property
damage.
ENGINE CONTROLS
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Engine
Owner’s Manual (included in the tiller lit¬
erature package) to identify the controls
on your engine.
IMPORTANT: The control for stopping the
engine is located on the engine.
12

4
Operation
A WARNING
Before operating your machine,
carefully read and understand all safety
(Section 1), controls (Section 3) and
operating instructions (Section 4) in
this Manual, in the separate Engine
Owner’s Manual, and on the decals on
the machine.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury.
INTRODUCTION
Read this Section of the manual thor¬
oughly before you start the engine. Then,
take the time to familiarize yourself with
the basic operation of the tiller before
using it in the garden. Find an open, level
area and practice using the tiller controls
without the tines engaging the soil (put
tines in “travel” setting). Only after
you’ve become completely familiar with
the tiller should you begin using it in the
garden.
BREAK-IN OPERATION
Perform the following maintenance
during the first hours of new operation
(see “Maintenance” Section in this
Manual and in the Engine Owner’s
Manual).
1. Change engine oil after first 2 hours of
new engine operation.
2. Check for loose or missing hardware
on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.
3. Check tension on forward drive belt
after first 2 hours of operation.
4. Check transmission gear oil level after
first 2 hours of operation.
Depth Regulator Lever
Recoil Starter
Wheel Drive Pin
(on each wheel)
Reverse Clutch Control
-Models 12209/12210
(knob on back of bracket)
\
Forward Clutch Bail
Figure 4-1
STARTING AND STOPPING
THE ENGINE
Pre-Start Checklist
Make the following checks and perform
the following services before starting the
engine.
1. Read the “Safety” and “Controls”
Sections in this Manual. Read the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual provided
by the engine manufacturer.
2. Check that the wheels are in the
WHEEL DRIVE position (wheel pins must
be through the wheel hubs and the wheel
shaft holes).
3. Check unit for loose or missing
hardware. Service as required.
4. Check engine oil level. See Engine
Owner’s Manual.
5. Check that all safety guards and
covers are in place.
6. Check air cleaner and engine cooling
system. See Engine Owner’s Manual.
7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.
A DANGER
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND
ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE.
Follow gasoline safety rules in this
Manual (see Section 1) and in the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
Failure to follow gasoline safety
instructions can result in serious
personal injury and property damage.
8. F ill the fuel tank with gasoline
according to the directions in the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow all
instructions and safety rules carefully.
13

Section 4: Operation
Starting the Engine
The following steps describe how to start
and stop the engine. Do not attempt to
engage the tines or wheels until you
have read all of the operating instruc¬
tions in this Section. Also review
the safety rules in Section 1: “Safety”
and the tiller and engine controls
information in Section 3: “Features and
Controls.”
A CAUTION
To help prevent serious
personal injury or damage to
equipment:
• Before starting engine, put both
wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position.
Never have the wheels in the
FREEWHEEL position when the
engine is running. When the wheels
are in FREEWHEEL, they do not hold
back the tiller and the tines could
propel the tiller rapidly forward or
backward.
• Before starting engine, put Forward
Clutch Bail (all Models) and Reverse
Clutch Control (Models 12209/12210
only) in neutral (disengaged)
positions by releasing levers.
• Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas.
• Avoid engine muffler and nearby
areas. Temperatures in these areas
may exceed 150°F.
1. Complete the “Pre-Start Checklist” on
the previous page.
2. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE
position (see “Wheel Drive Pins” in
Section 3).
3. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the
“travel” position (lever all the way down)
so that the tines are clear of the ground.
4. Release all controls on the tiller.
5. If engine is equipped with a fuel valve,
turn valve to open position as instructed
in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
6. Put ignition switch and/or throttle
control lever on engine in “ON”, “RUN”,
“FAST” or “START” position as instructed
in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
7. Choke or prime engine as instructed in
the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
8. Place one hand on the fuel tank to
stabilize the unit when you pull the starter
handle. Use the recoil starter rope to start
the engine as instructed in the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual. When engine
starts, gradually move choke lever (on
engines so equipped) to “NO CHOKE”,
“CHOKE OFF” or “RUN” position.
9. Use the "FAST” throttle speed setting
when tilling.
A WARNING
Keep away from rotating tines. Rotating
tines will cause injury.
Stopping the Engine and Tiller
1. To stop the wheels and tines, release
the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse
Clutch Control (on Models 12209/12210)
- whichever control is in use.
2. To stop the engine, put the ignition
switch and/or the throttle control lever on
the engine in the “OFF” or “STOP”
position.
OPERATING THE TILLER
The following pages provide guidelines to
using your tiller effectively and safely in
various gardening applications. Be sure
to read “Tilling Tips & Techniques” in this
Section before you actually put the tines
into the soil.
This is a traditional “standard-rotating-
tine” (SRT) tiller with forward rotating
tines. It operates completely differently
from “counter-rotating-tine” (CRT) tillers
or from front-tine tillers.
1. Follow the “Pre-Start Checklist” on the
previous page. Be sure that the wheels
are in the WHEEL DRIVE position.
2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the
“travel” position (lever all the way down)
so that the tines are clear of the ground.
Use this position when practicing with
your tiller or when moving to or from the
garden. When you are ready to begin
tilling, you must move the Depth
Regulator Lever to the desired depth
setting (see “Tilling Tips & Techniques”).
3. Start the engine and allow it to warm
up. When warm, put throttle control in
fast speed setting.
Figure 4-2: Use one hand to guide tiller
when moving forward.
4. F or forward motion of the wheels and
tines:
(a) Pull the Forward Clutch Bail up and
hold it against the handlebar. Release
the bail to stop forward motion of the
wheels and tines.
(b) As the tiller moves forward, relax and
let the wheels pull the unit along while
the tines dig. Walk behind and a little
to one side of the tiller. Use a light
but secure grip with one hand on the
handlebars, but keep your arm loose.
See Figure 4-2. Let the tiller move
ahead at its own pace and do not push
down on the handlebars to try and
force the tiller to dig deeper - this
takes weight off the wheels, reduces
traction, and causes the tines to try
and propel the tiller.
14

Section 4: Operation
A WARNING
Da not push down on the handlebars to
try to make the tiller till more deeply.
This prevents the wheels from holding
the tiller back and can allow the tines
to rapidly propel the tiller forward,
which could result in loss of control,
property damage, or personal injury.
5. For reverse motion of the wheels and
tines (Models 12209/12210 only):
(a) Look behind and exercise caution
when operating in reverse. Do not till
while in reverse.
(b) Stop all forward motion before
reversing. Lift the handlebars with one
hand until the tines are off the ground
and then pull the Reverse Clutch
Control knob out to engage reverse
motion (see Figure 4-3). To stop
reverse motion, let go of the Reverse
Clutch Control knob.
NOTE: To move the Models 12208/12217
in reverse for short distances, use the
following procedure:
(a) Release the Forward Clutch Bail.
(b) Tilt the handlebar slightly upward until
the tines are out of the soil.
(c) Swing the handlebar to the left so the
right wheel takes a “step” backward.
Next move the handlebar to the right so
the left wheel takes a “step” backward.
(d) Repeat to “walk” the tiller rearward. If
longer distances need to be covered in
reverse, shut off the engine, then place
the two wheels in FREEWHEEL.
6 . To Turn the Tiller Around:
(a) Practice turning the tiller in a level,
open area. Be very careful to keep
your feet and legs away from the tines.
(b) To make a turn, lift the handlebars
until the engine and tines are balanced
over the wheels (Figure 4-4). The
tines must be out of the ground while
turning the tiller.
Figure 4-3: Raise tines off ground and look
behind when moving in reverse. (Models
12209 and 12210 have powered reverse.
Models 12208 and 12217 can be “fish¬
tailed” backward manually lor a short
distance, or rolled backward when wheels
are in FREEWHEEL.)
(c) W ith the tiller balanced, push sideways
on the handlebar to move the tiller in
the direction of the turn (Figure 4-5).
After completing the turn, slowly lower
the tines into the soil to resume tilling.
Stopping the Tiller and Engine
1. To stop the wheels and tines, release
the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse
Clutch Control (on Models 12209/12210)
-whichevercontrol is in use.
2. To stop the engine, put the ignition
switch and/or the throttle control lever on
the engine in the “OFF” or “STOP”
position.
A WARNING
Before tilling, contact your telephone or
utilities company and inquire if under¬
ground equipment or lines are used in
your area. Their representative will be
glad to answer your questions and tell
you if any of their equipment or lines
are buried underground on your
property.
Turning the Tiller Around
Figure 4-4: To begin turn, lift handlebars
until engine and tines are balanced over
wheels. Be sure tines are out of ground.
Figure 4-5: With tiller balanced over
wheels (and tines out of the ground),
push handlebars sideways to turn tiller.
15

Section 4: Operation
Tilling Tips & Techniques
Let the tiller do the work
• While tilling, relax and let the wheels
pull the tiller along while the tines do
the digging. Walk on the side that is
not yet finished (to avoid making foot¬
prints in the freshly tilled soil) and
lightly, but securely grip the handlebar
with just one hand. See Figure 4-2.
•Avoid pushing down on the handlebars
in an attempt to force the tiller to dig
deeper. Doing so takes the weight off
the powered wheels, causing them to
lose traction. Without the wheels
helping to hold the tiller back, the tines
will attempt to propel the tiller - often
causing the tiller to skip rapidly across
the ground. (Sometimes, slight
downward pressure on the handlebars
will help get through a particularly
tough section of sod or unbroken
ground, but in most cases this won’t be
necessary at all.)
Tilling depths
• Avoid trying to dig too deeply too
quickly, especially when busting sod or
tilling soil that hasn’t been tilled for
some time. Use shallow depth settings
(only an inch or two deep) for the first
passes through the garden area. With
each succeeding pass, adjust the depth
regulator to dig another inch or two
deeper. (Watering the garden area a
few days prior to tilling will make tilling
easier, as will letting the newly worked
soil set for a day or two before making
a final, deep tilling pass.)
• When cultivating (breaking up the
surface soil around plants to help
destroy weeds), use very shallow depth
settings to prevent injury to plants whose
roots often grow close to the surface. If
needed, lift up on the handlebars slightly
to prevent the tines from digging too
deeply. Cultivating on a regular basis not
only eliminates weeds, it also loosens
and aerates the soil for better moisture
absorption and faster plant growth.)
Avoid tilling wet, soggy soil
Tilling wet soil often results in large,
hard clumps of soil that can interfere
with planting, if time permits, wait a day
or two after heavy rains to allow the soil
to dry before tilling. Test the soil by
squeezing it into a ball. If it compresses
too easily, it is too wet to till.
Avoid making footprints
When possible, walk on the untilled side
of the unit to avoid making footprints in
the freshly tilled soil. Footprints cause
soil compaction that can hamper root
penetration and contribute to soil erosion.
They can also “plant” unwanted weed
seeds back into the newly tilled soil.
Choosing correct wheel
and tine speeds
With experience, you will find the “just
right” tilling depth and tilling speed com¬
bination that is best for your garden.
Set the engine throttle lever at a speed to
give the engine adequate power and yet
allow it to operate at the slowest possible
speed...at least until you have achieved
the maximum tilling depth you desire.
Faster engine speeds may be desirable
when making final passes through the
seedbed or when cultivating. Selection of
the correct engine speed, in relation to
the tilling depth, will ensure a sufficient
power level to do the job without causing
the engine to labor.
Suggested tilling patterns
• When preparing a seedbed, go over the
same path twice in the first row, then
overlap one-half the tiller width on the
rest of the passes (see Figure 4-6).
When finished in one direction, make a
second pass at a right angle as shown
in Figure 4-7. Overlap each pass for
best results (in very hard ground it
may take three or four passes to thor¬
oughly pulverize the soil).
■ If the garden size will not permit
lengthwise and then crosswise tilling,
then overlap the first passes by one-
half a tiller width, followed by succes¬
sive passes at one-quarter width (see
Figure 4-8).
• With planning, you can allow enough
room between rows to cultivate (see
Figure 4-9). Leave room for the hood
width, plus enough extra room for
future plant growth.
Figure 4-6
Figure 4-7
(
M
n
I
U
Ql
1 1
M
u
u
_
y
yi
Figure 4-8
Figure
16

Section 4: Operation
Tilling Tips & Techniques
Clearing the tines
The tines have a self-clearing action
which helps to eliminate most tangling
of debris. However, occasionally dry
grass, stringy stalks or tough vines may
become tangled. Follow these proce¬
dures to help avoid tangling and to clear
the tines, if necessary.
• To reduce tangling, set the depth
regulator deep enough to get maximum
“chopping” action as the tines chop the
material against the ground. Also, try
to till under crop residues or cover
crops while they are green, moist and
tender.
• While power composting, try swaying
the handlebars from side to side (about
6" to 12"). This “fishtailing” action
often clears the tines of debris.
• if tangling occurs on models equipped
with a powered reverse, lift the tines
out of the soil and run the tiller in
reverse for a few feet. This reversing
action should unwind a good deal of
debris.
• It may be necessary to remove the
debris by hand (a pocket knife will help
you to cut away the material).
A WARNING
Before clearing the tines by hand, stop
the engine, allow all moving parts to
stop and disconnect the spark plug
wire.
Failure to follow this warning could
result in personal injury.
Tilling on slopes
if you must garden on sloping ground,
please follow two very important guide¬
lines:
1. Till only on moderate slopes, never on
steep inclines where footing is difficult
(review safety rules in the “Safety”
Section of this Manual).
2. We recommend tilling up and down
slopes rather than terracing. Tilling
vertically on a slope allows maximum
planting area and also leaves room for
cultivating.
IMPORTANT: When tilling on slopes, be
sure the correct oil level is maintained in
the engine (check every one-half hour of
operation). The incline of the slope will
cause the oil to slant away from its
normal level and this can starve engine
parts of required lubrication. Keep the
engine oil level at the full point at all
times!
A. Tilling up and down slopes:
• To keep soil erosion to a minimum, be
sure to add enough organic matter to
the soil so that it has good moisture¬
holding texture and try to avoid leaving
footprints or wheel marks.
• When tilling vertically, try to make the
first pass uphill as the tiller digs more
deeply going uphill than it does
downhill. In soft soil or weeds, you
may have to lift the handlebars slightly
while going uphill. When going
downhill, overlap the first pass by
about one-half the width of the tiller.
B. Terrace Gardening:
• When a slope is too steep or too short
for vertical tilling, it may be necessary
to till across the slope and create
terraced rows. Terraces are rows that
are cut into the side of a slope, creating
a narrow, but flat area on which to
plant.
• On a long slope, you can make several
terraces, one below the other.
• Terraces should be only 2-to-3 feet
wide. Digging too far into the side of
the slope will expose poor subsoil that
is unproductive for plants.
• To create a terrace, start at the top of
the slope and work down. Go back and
forth across the first row as shown in
Figure 4-10.
• Each succeeding lower terrace is
started by walking below the terrace
you’re preparing. For added stability of
the tiller, always keep the uphill wheel
in the soft, newly tilled soil. Do not till
the last 12" or more of the downhill
outside edge of each terrace. This
untilled strip helps prevents the
terraces from breaking apart and
washing downhill. It also provides a
walking path between rows.
Figure 4-10
C. T illing across slopes without using
terraces:
• If vertical or terracing gardening aren’t
practical for you, then you can till
laterally across a slope. We don’t
really recommend this method as it can
create unsure footing and invites soil
erosion.
• As in terrace gardening, start at the top
of the slope and overlap the first pass
by half the width of the tiller. For added
stability of the tiller, always keep the
uphill wheel in the soft, newly tilled soil.
17

Section 4: Operation
POWER COMPOSTING
Power composting simply means tilling
under and burying in the soil all manner
of organic matter such as crop residues,
leaves, grass clippings and cover crops.
This material will decompose during the
non-growing season and add important
natural nutrients to the soil.
A WARNING
When power composting, do not keep
the Depth Regulator Lever at a deep
setting if the tiller jumps or bucks.
If jumping or bucking occurs, move the
Depth Regulator Lever down to one of
the shallower settings and then slowly
increase the tilling depth on later
passes.
Failure to comply could result in loss
of tiller control, property damage or
personal injury.
The first place to begin is with crop
residues such as leftover vines, stalks,
stems and roots. Power compost these
crop residues as soon as they finish
bearing. The sooner this is done, the
better, as tender green matter is easier to
till under. Use the deepest depth
regulator setting possible without causing
the engine to labor or the tiller to jump
ahead.
Standing cornstalks of reasonable height
can be power composted. Pushing over
(but not uprooting) cornstalks will often
make it easier for your tiller to chop up
the stalks. Keep the tines clear of
excessive tangling by “fishtailing” or fre¬
quently using reverse. Make several
passes, then return a few days later to
finish off any remaining stubble.
After tilling under crop residues, add more
organic matter such as leaves, grass
clippings and even kitchen scraps. When
tilled into the soil, this organic matter will
decompose and add even more important
nutrients to the soil.
After power composting, you may want to
plant a “green manure” cover crop to
protect the soil during the off-season.
You simply grow a crop of clover, alfalfa,
buckwheat, peas, beans, rye grass, grain,
or kale and then till it into the soil prior to
the planting season.
LOADING AND UNLOADING THE
TILLER
A WARNING
Loading and unloading the tiller into a
vehicle is potentially hazardous and
we don’t recommend doing so unless
absolutely necessary, as this could
result in personal injury or property
damage.
However, if you must load or unload
the tiller, follow the guidelines given
next.
• Before loading or unloading, stop the
engine, wait for all parts to stop moving,
disconnect the spark plug wire and let
the engine and muffler cool.
• The tiller is too heavy and bulky to lift
safely by one person. Two or more
people should share the load.
• Use sturdy ramps and manually (engine
shut off) roll the tiller into and out of the
vehicle. Two or more people are needed
to do this.
• Ramps must be strong enough to
support the combined weight of the tiller
and any handlers. The ramps should
provide good traction to prevent
slipping; they should have side rails to
guide the tiller along the ramps; and they
should have a locking device to secure
them to the vehicle.
• The handlers should wear sturdy
footwear that will help to prevent
slipping.
• Position the loading vehicle so that the
ramp angle is as flat as possible (the
less incline to the ramp, the better).
Turn the vehicle’s engine off and apply
its parking brake.
• When going up ramps, stand in the
normal operating position and push the
tiller ahead of you. Have a person at
each side to turn the wheels.
• When going down ramps, walk
backward with the tiller following you.
Keep alert for any obstacles behind you.
Position a person at each wheel to
control the speed of the tiller. Never go
down ramps tiller-first, as the tiller could
tip forward.
• Use wooden blocks to place on the
downhill side of the wheels if you need
to stop the tiller from rolling down the
ramp. Also, use the blocks to temporar¬
ily keep the tiller in place on the ramps
(if necessary), and to chock the wheels
in place after the tiller is in the vehicle.
• When the tiller is in the vehicle, prevent
it from rolling by engaging the wheels in
the WHEEL DRIVE position. Chock the
wheels with blocks and securely tie the
tiller down.
18

eh a
Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning or
servicing the machine, shut off engine,
wait for all moving parts to come to a
complete stop, disconnect spark plug
wire and move wire away from spark
plug. Remove ignition key on electric
start models.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury or
property damage.
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Before Every Every As
PROCEDURE Each 10 30 Noted
Use Hours Hours
Check engine oil level
•
And every 5
operating hours
Clean engine
•
▲
Check drive belt tension
•
t
Check nuts and bolts
•
t
Change engine oil
•
*
Lubricate tiller
•
Service engine air cleaner system
▲
Check gear oil level in
transmission
•
t
Check tines for wear
•
Check tire pressure
(pneumatic tires only)
•
Service spark plug
▲
* Change more frequently in dusty or dirty conditions. Change after first 2 hours of
break-in operation.
t Check after first 2 hours of break-in operation.
▲ See Engine Owner’s Manual for service intervals and instructions.
19

Section 5: Maintenance
A WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition
key on electric start models.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
TILLER LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication of the tiller is an
essential part of your maintenance
program. After every 10 operating
hours, oil or grease the lubrication points
shown in Figure 5-1 and described
below.
Use a good quality lubricating oil (#30
weight engine oil is suitable) and a good
quality general purpose grease (grease
that has a metal lubricant is preferred, if
available).
• Remove wheels, clean wheel shaft (A,
Fig. 5-1) and apply thin coating of
grease to shaft.
• Grease back, front and sides of depth
regulator lever (B, Fig. 5-1).
• Remove tines, clean tine shafts (C, Fig.
5-1) and inspect for rust, rough spots
or burrs (especially around holes). File
or sand smooth and coat ends of shaft
with grease.
• Oil the threads on the handlebar height
adjustment screws and the handlebar
attaching screws (D, Fig. 5-1).
Figure 5-1
CHECK FOR OIL LEAKS
Before each use, check your tiller for
signs of an oil leak - usually a dirty, oily
accumulation either on the unit or on the
floor where it has been parked.
A little seepage around a cover or oil seal
is usually not a cause for alarm. However,
if the oil drips overnight then immediate
attention is needed as ignoring a leak can
result in severe transmission damage.
If a cover is leaking, check for loose
screws. If the screws are tight, a new
gasket or oil seal may be required. If the
leak is from around a shaft and oil seal,
the oil seal probably needs to be replaced.
See your authorized dealer or contact the
factory for service or advice.
IMPORTANT: Never operate the tiller if the
transmission is low on oil. Check the oil
level after every 30 hours of operation and
whenever there is any oil leakage.
CHECK HARDWARE
Check for loose or missing hardware after
every 10 operating hours. Tighten or
replace hardware before using the tiller.
Be sure to check the screws underneath
the tiller hood (lift the hood flap) that
secure the transmission cover and the
Depth Regulator Lever to the transmis¬
sion.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE (Models
with pneumatic tires)
Check the air pressure in both tires.
Deflate or inflate both tires evenly from
15-to-20 PSI (pounds per square inch).
Be sure that both tires have the same air
pressure or the unit will tend to pull to
one side.
TRANSMISSION GEAR OIL SERVICE
Check the transmission gear oil level after
every 30 hours of operation or whenever
you notice any oil leak. Operating the
tiller when the transmission is low on oil
can result in severe damage.
A. To Check the Transmission
Gear Oil Level:
1. Check the gear oil level when the trans¬
mission is cool. Gear oil will expand in
warm operating temperatures and this
expansion will provide an incorrect oil
level reading.
2. With the tiller on level ground, pull the
Depth Regulator Lever all the way up.
3. Remove the oil fill plug (A, Fig. 5-2)
from the transmission housing and locate
the main drive shaft situated inside the
housing.
4. The gear oil level is correct if the gear
oil is approximately halfway up the side of
the main drive shaft.
5. If the gear oil level is low, add gear oil
as described next. If the gear oil level is
okay, securely replace the oil fill plug.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tiller if
the gear oil level is low. Doing so will
result in severe damage to the transmis¬
sion components.
6. If adding only a few ounces of gear
oil, use API rated GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil
having a viscosity of SAE 140, SAE 85W-
140 or SAE 80W-90. If refilling an empty
transmission, use only GL-4 gear oil
having a viscosity of SAE 85W-140 or
SAE 140.
IMPORTANT: Do not use automatic
transmission fluid or motor oil in the
transmission.
7. While checking frequently to avoid
overfilling, slowly add gear oil into the oil
fill hole until it reaches the halfway point
on the drive shaft.
8 . Securely replace the oil fill plug.
B. To Drain the Transmission Gear Oil:
The transmission gear oil does not need
to be changed unless it has been contam¬
inated with dirt, sand or metal particles.
1. Drain gasoline from the fuel tank or
run the engine until the fuel tank is
empty. See “DANGER” statement that
follows.
20