Tiller/Cultivator
with 4 Stroke Engine
OWNER’S MANUAL
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Safety 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.
I. Special Safety Information
!
!
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.
II. Safety & Warnings
!
!
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.
!
WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
3
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An important part of the safety system incorporated in this tiller
are the warning and information decals found on various parts of the
III. Safety Decal Information
tiller. These decals must be replaced in time due to abrasion, etc. It is your
responsibility to replace these decals when they become hard to read. The
location and part numbers (P/N) of these decals are illustrated below.
P/N 400634
P/N 400631
READ OWNER’S MANUAL
BEFORE USING TILLER, OR
PERFORMING ANY REPAIR
OR MAINTENANCE. KEEP
OWNERS MANUAL IN A
SAFE PLACE.
CUTTING HAZARD; KEEP
FEET AND HANDS AWAY
FROM ROTATING TINES.
DO NOT CARRY THE TILLER
IN THIS POSITION.
DON’T FUEL, REFUEL, OR
CHECK FUEL WHILE
SMOKING, OR NEAR AN
OPEN FLAME OR OTHER
IGNITION SOURCE.
DO NOT REACH YOUR
FINGERS AND\OR
HANDS IN BETWEEN
THE TINE BLADES
CAUTION: WHEN
INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.
WEAR EAR AND EYE
PROTECTION.
DO NOT OPERATE TILLER
INDOORS OR IN POORLY
VENTILATED AREA
ASSEMBLING THE HANDLES,
MAKE SURE FUEL TANK FACES
AWAY FROM OPERATOR. THIS
IS THE REAR OF THE TILLER,
REFER TO ASSEMBLY
ALWAYS REMOVE THE
OUTER TINES BEFORE
REMOVING THE
INNER TINES
INSTRUCTION ON PAGE 7.
P/N 400635
!
!
WARNING • DANGER
!
!
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.
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.
operate unit when fatigued.
6.Always dress properly. Do not wear
loose clothing or jewelry, they might get
working condition.
IV. Warnings - Do’s
12. Use extreme caution when
reversing or pulling the machine towards
you.
13.Work only in daylight or good
artificial light.
Read and understand the owner’s
manual. Pay particular attention to all
sections regarding safety.
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.
Eye protection must meetANSI 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,
1.Always keep a firm grip on both
handles while the tines are moving and/or
the engine is running. BEAWARE!!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.
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.
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
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
20.Always remove the outer set of tines
before removing the inner set of tines.
4
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when tines are rotating.
Have repairs made by a qualified
dealer or repairman.
V. Warnings - Don'ts
Don’t work on excessively steep
slopes.
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.
See that only original Mantis®
parts are used.
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 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.
Don’t overreach. Keep a good
footing at all times.
Don’t allow children or incapable
people to operate this tiller.
Don’t run with the machine,
walk.
Do not reach you fingers and\or
hands in between the tine blades.
Don’t operate while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Don’t let others operate tiller
without proper training.
Do not attempt to remove the
inner tines before removing the
outer tines.
Don’t attempt to repair this tiller.
Do not stand in front of tiller
!
!
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.
VI. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Do’s
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.
Always use fresh gasoline. Stale
gasoline can cause damage.
Stop the engine whenever you
leave the machine.
Always store fuel in containers
specifically designed for this
purpose.
Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.
If the fuel tank needs to be
drained, this should be done
outdoors.
Always pull starter cord slowly
until resistance is felt. Then pull cord
rapidly to avoid kickback and prevent
arm or hand injury.
VII. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Don’ts
of the spark plug, keep plug a safe
completely before starting engine.
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.
distance from cylinder to avoid
burning of evaporated fuel from
cylinder.
Don’t operate your tiller if there
is an accumulation of debris around
the muffler, and cooling fins.
Don’t check for spark with
spark plug or plug wire removed.
Use an approved tester.
Don’t touch hot mufflers,
cylinders or cooling fins as
contact may cause serious burns.
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 crank engine with spark
plug removed unless spark plug
wire is disconnected. Sparks can
ignite fumes.
Don’t change the engine
governor setting or over speed the
engine.
Don’t refuel, start or run this
tiller indoors or in an improperly
ventilated area.
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.
Don’t run engine when the odor
of gasoline is present or other
explosive conditions exist.
Don’t run engine when electrical
system causes spark outside the
cylinder. During periodical checks
Don’t operate the unit if
gasoline is spilled. Clean up spill
5
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Assembly
20
21 39 40 55 66 67
!
!
WARNING•DANGER
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THIS TILLER
CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
69
1
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT
8
2
70
6
1-800-366-6268
13
51
Your MANTIS® XP Tiller comes
partially assembled. Full assembly will
take just a few minutes if you follow
the directions.
42
53
49
47
52
First, take all items out of the
carton. But do not remove the
cardboard from around the Tiller’s
base.
48
Quantity Description
*Key #
1
1
2
1
Upper Handle Assembly
Upper Handle Throttle Assembly
Lower Handles
Engine Assembly (includes Fender Guard,
Worm Gear Transmission & Tines)
2
1
6
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.
20, 21, 39,
40, 55,
66, 67
42
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.
1
1
1
2
4
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
Carrying Handle
Handle Brace
Bag of Hardware Containing:
Bolts (1” long)
Lock Nuts
Bolts (3” long)
8
47
48
49
51
13
52
53
69
70
Handle Clamps
Throttle Cable Clip
Round Head, Square Neck Bolts
Handle Knobs
Kickstand Assembly
Kickstand Top Bracket with 3/8” Bolts
**
*These numbers are the same numbers shown on the Parts
Layout on page 18.
**If applicable.
6
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Assembly
(continued)
other handle clamp onto this other
handle’s short leg. Add a nut (#48)
and tighten finger tight. (Picture 3)
HOW TO ASSEMBLE
LOWER HANDLES
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.)
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)
7. Take the lower handles that
you’ve just put together. Slide them
into the two recessed
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.
Picture 1
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.
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)
8. Slide the second 3-inch bolt
through the second set of holes in the
short legs. Add a nut and tighten
finger tight.
5. Now slide the other lower
handle onto the 3-inch bolt. Fit the
Picture 2
NOTE: THE LOCK NUTS ARE STAMPED. FINGER TIGHT IS
APPROXIMATELY 1/2 TO 1-1/2 TURNS.
Picture 3
Picture 4
Picture 5
7
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Assembly
(continued)
carry handle and the
How to Assemble
Kickstand, Upper
Handles and
kickstand assembly down at
the same time until the
kickstand comes to a stop
(Picture 3).
Carrying Handle
NOTE: If your Mantis® XP
was supplied with a
kickstand, please start at
line 1. If not, please start
with the assembly of the
carry handle in line 3 below.
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
Picture 1
Picture 2
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.
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.
Picture 3
Picture 4
THIS MUST BE DONE
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINE.
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).
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)
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
8. Now install the Handle
Brace (#8). Line it up with the
holes on the upper handles.
Picture 5
Picture 6
Improper throttle
installation can cause
tines to rotate
WARNING:
WARNING • DANGER
!
!
REMOVE TINES BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
AND MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.
unexpectedly.
!
8
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Assembly
(continued)
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Then insert a Cap Screw (#47) and a
Lock Nut (#48) on either side (Picture 7)
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.
9. Use a wrench to tighten Cap Screws
and Lock Nuts.
10. Now use wrench to tighten all nuts
and bolts firmly and securely.
IMPORTANT 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.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Before you use your MANTIS
Tiller, read the Safety Rules &
Warnings on pages 3-5.
Picture 7
How to fill the engines oil sump
before using your new Mantis
Tiller:
Checking the Oil Level in
the Engine’s Oil Sump
IMPORTANT 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.
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)
Please follow the notes below for
full instructions how to check the
oil level in the engine.
Picture 1
Max. 3.4 oz (100ml)
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.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Check the oil level in the
engine before each use. If oil is
low, top it off with 10W-30
before using. See your 4 Stroke
Tiller Engine Manual and
information above for details.
CHECK OIL LEVEL
WARNING:
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
!
WARNING • DANGER
!
FUEL IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. HANDLE
IT WITH CARE. KEEP AWAY FROM IGNITION
SOURCES. DO NOT SMOKE WHILE FUELING
YOUR EQUIPMENT.
!
9
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Starting
TO START YOUR
TILLER FOR THE
FIRST TIME:
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% MTBE, no methyl alcohol.)
!
!
WARNING
WARNING
!
!
AVOID ACCIDENTAL BLADE
ENGAGEMENT
DO NOT OPERATE IN A CLOSED
OR CONFINED AREA
DO NOT SQUEEZE THE THROTTLE
TRIGGER WHEN STARTING.
Warm Engine
MAINTAIN PROPER IDLE SPEED
ADJUSTMENT (2500-3100 RPM)
1. Push ignition switch to I
“start/on” position.
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.
Mantis® XP Tiller
Starting Instructions
(4 Stroke 35cc engine)
2. Pull grip slowly until you
feel resistance then pull briskly.
Make sure the choke is in the
open, or run, position.
IMPORTANT!
It is normal for your
About the Choke
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.
The choke controls the amount
of air drawn into the engine.Your
tiller will run only if the choke
is open.
NOTE:When the choke is
closed, never pull the cord more
than four or five times. Over-
pulling may cause flooding.
Cold Engine
1. Place the o/I switch 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)
Picture 1
Picture 2
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.
Picture 4
Picture 5
Picture 6
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.
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.
10
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Additional Information
throttle lock out button (Picture 1),
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!
A Special Feature
(with the idle set properly
and the engine running)
then squeeze the throttle trigger
gradually to increase the engine
speed and engage the tines.
Even 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.
NOTE: This step must be
repeated each time your tiller
trigger is released.
How to get your tiller
to your garden
Take It 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.
NOTE: Once the throttle trigger
is squeezed, you can release the
lockout button (Picture 2).
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.
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)
!
! WARNING
Operation
NEVER TRANSPORT TILLER WITH
GAS IN FUEL TANK IN TRUNK OF
CAR OR TRUCK FOR THIS COULD
CAUSE EXPLOSION OR FIRE
With engine running, and both
hands on the handles, press the
Carry It.
Make sure the engine is off.
!
! WARNING
NEVER CARRY YOUR TILLER AS
THE PERSON IN PICTURE 5 IS
DOING. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL
SUFFER SERIOUS INJURY.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 4
Picture 5
Picture 3
11
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Tilling
Now You’re Ready to
Use Your MANTIS® XP
Tiller.
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)
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)
For Shallow Tilling:
Picture 1
Switch the tines to the cultivating
position. (See page 13 to learn how.) Then
move your Tiller quickly over your soil
surface.
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.
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.
Run Your MANTIS XP Tiller
like a Vacuum Cleaner.
Your MANTIS XP Tiller
Handles Special Tilling Projects.
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.
Picture 2
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.
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)
Picture 3
!
!
WARNING • DANGER
THE OPERATOR OF THIS TILLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR
ACCIDENTS OR HAZARDS OCCURRING TO HIMSELF, OTHER PEOPLE
OR THEIR PROPERTY.
!
!
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
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Tilling
takes less than a few minutes.
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
How about a family-
size vegetable garden?
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.
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.
The result?Your Tiller will cut
your weeding time in half, and turn
a tiresome chore into a pleasure.
!
!
IMPORTANT
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.
To change the tines on your
4 Stroke Mantis® XP Tiller,
rotate the handles forward and
allow tiller to rest on the engine.
Your MANTIS 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
When the tines are in the
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.
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.
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.
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
Inner Tines
Outer Tines
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 5
Picture 3
Picture 4
13
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Cultivating
Now You’re Ready to
Cultivate or Weed.
Fuel Tank
Fuel Tank
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!
Handles
Handles
Tine Rotation
Tine Rotation
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!
Tine Teeth
Front
Tine Teeth
Front
Back
Back
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.
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.
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
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.
suburban gardeners, who often
have to plant rows close together!
*With optional Planter
Furrower attachment.
(Item #6222)
Cleaning the Tines
The installed weed reducer will
help, but remember, any tiller will
From time to time, you may want
to remove the tines to get them
tines. Also, do not reach your fingers
and\or hand in between the tine
tangle in tall grass, stringy vines, or completely clean. To do this, please
blades. When finished, simply return
the tines to their starting positions.
super-big weeds. So, if you have a
“backyard jungle,” first
use a knife, pruner, or brush
follow steps 1-4 as noted under
“How to Switch From Tilling to
Cultivating Position” on page 13.
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.
cutter to chop up the overgrowth. If Then, you can remove any weeds,
the tines become tangled anyway,
turn the engine off completely
before trying to clear them.
stones, or mud from the tines. As
always, please be sure to remove the
outer tines before removing the inner
14
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Maintenance
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 OVERFILL. Too much grease can
create pressure which can cause seals to fail or the
clutch to slip.
How to Check the Grease Level
Inside 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.
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).
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:
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.
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).
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
!
!
WARNING
PREMATURE TRANSMISISSION FAILURE CAN OCCUR IF
PROPER GREASE LEVEL IS NOT BE MAINTAINED
15
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Maintenance
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.
Picture 2
Picture 1
over the air cleaner and snap
the two locking tabs.
(Picture 2)
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.
5. To clean the air filter
IMPORTANT NOTE:
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.
A dirty air cleaner will restrict
air flow to the carburetor,
reducing engine performance.
If you operate the engine in very
dusty areas, clean the air filter
element more often then
specified in the Maintenance
section.
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.
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
IMPORTANT NOTE:
c. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner
body and cover, using a moist
rag. Be careful to prevent dirt
from entering the carburetor.
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.
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
6. Insert your clean filter inside
the air cleaner.
3. The air filter is the dark
sponge like material on the inside
ofthe air cleaner. Check whether it
is soiled or moist.
IMPORTANT! Make sure the
filter is "seated" properly in the
cover. The filter must fit snugly
inside the opening that holds the
filter in place. Installing the
filter incorrectly will cause
Note:
Please check the lip on the Air
Cleaner Cover. If the lip is chipped
or cracked, it should be replaced.
This will prevent dirt from being
ingested through the carburetor
into the inside of the engine.
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
engine damage and void the
warranty. Fit the cover back
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.
worm gear housing. Make sure the
plastic carrying handle is not under
the engine.
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.
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!
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.
Then put the engine back on the
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)
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.
To fix this, loosen the flange
16
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Storage
Each fall, or before you store
your Mantis® XP Tiller for any
long period, be sure to take these
measures:
!
!
WARNING • DANGER
DO NOT STORE IN AN AREA WHERE FUEL FUMES MAY
ACCUMULATE AND REACH A FLAME OR SPARK.
1. Do not store your Tiller with
fuel still in it. Even under ideal
conditions, stored fuel containing
ethanol or MTBE can start to go
stale in 30 days. And, since stale
fuel has a high gum content, it can
clog the carburetor, this, in turn,
will restrict fuel flow. 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.
5 Install the spark plug, but
leave the spark plug wire
disconnected.
upright position in a clean, dry
place. You can store with the
handles in an extended position or
folded down.
6. Clean the air filter as described in
your 4 StrokeTiller Engine Manual.
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.
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.)
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.
14. Do you have fuel left over
from last season? Dispose of it
properly. Buy fresh oil and
gasoline next season.
10. Check the grease level in the
worm gear housing as described on
page 15.
15. Remove Tilling Tines or
attachments and lightly oil tine
shaft at least once a year.
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.
3. Disconnect the spark plug
wire and remove the spark plug.
Slowly pull the starter cord once.
You may store your Mantis
Tiller with the handles upright as
in Picture 1 or with the handles
folded down, as in Picture 2.
4. Inspect the spark plug, and if
necessary, clean it. If you need to
replace it, buy a NGK-CMR5H.
12. Store your Tiller in an
Picture 1
Picture 2
IMPORTANT
!
!
Do not store the tiller
lying flat on its front,
back, or side.
It 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.
17
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Mantis® XP Tiller Assembly
21
70
7
8
62
47
57
61
56
47
69
63
48
43
12
#
60
71
44
50
20
46
39
23
65
40
41
41
66
68
67
41
41
ITEM QTY. PART #
DESCRIPTION / REMARKS
ITEM QTY. PART #
DESCRIPTION / REMARKS
RETAININGRING
WORM GEAR
ITEM QTY. PART #
DESCRIPTION / REMARKS
HANDLE CLAMP
BOLT
KNOB
PLUG
TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY
BEARING
CLUTCH DRUM
M6 X 33MM - FLANGED BOLT
RETAINING RING
THROTTLE STOP HONDA 35CC
LABELWARNING
DUST CAP FOR GREASE FITTING
GREASE FITTING
TINE ASSY. INNER RIGHT
TINE ASSY. INNER LEFT
WEEDRECYCLER
KICKSTAND LEG ASSY.
HARDWARE FOR KICKSTAND
LABEL, XP TINE WARNING
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
2
4
2
2
428
429
431
430
432
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69#
70#
71
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
377
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
4
1
2
1
1
1
400257
400255
400224
400633
400306
910502
478
TRIGGER HANDLE ASSM. RH
HANDLE ASSM. LH
LOWER HANDLE -FOLD DOWN
LABEL, BRACE FRONT
HANDLE BRACE
10-32 X 3/4 - FLANGED BOLT
THROTTLE CLIP
FENDER GUARD
ENGINE ASSY – 35CC 4 STROKE
DRIVE SHAFT
WORM GEAR HOUSING
GASKET
HOUSINGCOVER
RD. HD. SELF TAPPING SCREW
ROLLER BEARING
400509
400510
400230
400302
400132
400308
400529
400524
400310
400634
400313
400300
400330
400329
4092
2
6
7
8
TINE SHAFT
WORM GEAR THRUST WASHER
WORM GEAR BEARING
BEARING SEAL
BEARING SEAL RETAINER
TINE ASSY - OUTER RIGHT
TINE ASSY - OUTER LEFT
TINE RETAINING HAIR PIN
CARRYING HANDLE
ENGINE ADAPTER
TINE LABEL
ROLLER BEARING
MANTIS LABEL
CAP SCREW 1/4-20 X 1" LG.
LOCK NUT 1/4 - 20
434
435
12
13
20
21
22*
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
400328
400327
418-1
400315
400307
400631
458
4058
410
972
400312
400916
468
400301
436
437A
651
423
425
424
422
426
WORM BEARING RACE
WORM THRUST BEARING
WORM SHAFT
410158
410113
400635
470
M9452
1/4-20 X 3” BOLT
BOLT 1/4 - 20 X 1/2" LG.
WORM DISK
* ALSO IN KEY #55 – 400302
# IF APPLICABLE
18
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Spare Parts
1. Set of two inner tines
2. Set of two outer tines
39
40
66
p/n
400332
p/n
400331
67
3. Set of four tines (inner and outer)
67
40
39
66
p/n
400333
NOTES: _________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
19
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MANTIS® XP TILLER LIMITED WARRANTY
MANTIS extends this limited warranty against defects in material
and workmanship for a period of five (5) years for normal
residential purposes and two (2) years for commercial use from the
date of purchase, to the first retail purchaser and each subsequent
owner, during the warranty period. This warranty covers all
portions of the MANTIS XP TILLER.
intended purposes. This warranty does not cover damage due to
normal wear and tear.
You must maintain your MANTIS XP TILLER by following the
maintenance procedures
described in the owner’s manual. Such routine maintenance,
whether performed by you or a dealer, is at your expense.
MANTIS will repair or replace, at its option, any part or parts of the
product proven to be defective in material or workmanship under
normal usage during the warranty period. Warranty repairs and
replacements will be made without charge for parts or labor. All
parts replaced under warranty will be considered as part of the
original product, and any warranty on the replaced parts will expire
coincident with the original product warranty. If you think your
MANTIS XP TILLER is defective in material or workmanship, you
must send it, along with your proof of purchase (sales receipt) to:
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
Mantis
1028 Street Road
Southampton, PA 18966
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.
You are responsible for pickup and delivery charges; the product
must be returned to us postage paid.
MANTIS assumes no responsibility in the event that the product was
not assembled or used in compliance with any assembly, care, safety,
or operating instructions contained in the Owner’s Manual or
accompanying the product; was not used with reasonable care or
requires replacement or repair due to accidents or lack of proper
maintenance; or was misused, altered, used for other than normal or
MANTIS
1028 Street Road
Southampton, PA 18966
(215) 355-9700
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.
© 2010 Mantis, Division of Schiller Grounds Care, Inc.
P/N 401764 4/10
Printed in USA
20
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