Mantis Tiller ElectricTiller User Manual

®
Electric Tiller  
O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
S a fe t y Ru le s a n d W a r n in g s  
You will notice throughout this owners’ manual, Safety Rules and Important Notes. Make sure you understand  
and obey these warnings for your own protection.  
A. Special Safety Information  
WARNING  
DANGER  
ATTENTION:THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT OUR IMPORTANT  
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.  
W HEN YOU SEETHIS SYMBOL  
HEED ITS WARNING! STAY ALERT!  
WARNING  
DANGER  
TO REDUCETHE POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENTS, COMPLYW ITH THE  
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.  
FAILURETO COMPLY MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY,  
AND/ OR EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.  
B. Safety and Warnings  
WARNING  
DANGER  
IMPROPER USE OR CARE OFTHISTILLER OR FAILURETO W EAR  
PROPER PROTECTION CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.  
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION AND ALL  
INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.  
W EAR HEARING AND EYE PROTECTION.  
WARNING  
DANGER  
IFTHETILLER IS USED IMPROPERLY OR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE  
NOT FOLLOW ED,THE USERS RISK SERIOUS INJURYTO  
THEMSELVES AND OTHERS.  
READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING  
TO OPERATETHISTILLER.  
2
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
C. Safety Decal Information  
An important part of the safety system incorporated in this tiller are the warning and information decals found  
on various parts of the tiller. These decals must be replaced in time due to abrasion, etc. It is your  
responsibility to replace these decals when they become hard to read. The location and part numbers (P/N) of  
these decals are illustrated on Page 16 and 17.  
P/N 420601  
P/N 420600  
CUTTING HAZARD; KEEP  
FEET AND HANDS AWAY  
FROM ROTATING TINES.  
DO NOT USE IF  
ELECTRICAL CORDS ARE  
DAMAGED OR BROKEN  
READ OWNER’S MANUAL  
BEFORE USING TILLER, OR  
PERFORMING ANY REPAIR OR  
MAINTENANCE. KEEP  
OWNERS MANUAL IN A  
SAFE PLACE.  
DO NOT USE IF IN RAIN  
OR WET CONDITIONS  
WEAR EAR AND EYE  
PROTECTION.  
CORRECT ASSEMBLY.  
INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.  
DO NOT CARRY THE TILLER  
IN THIS POSITION.  
D. Important Extension Cord Information  
1. Make sure the extension cords are in good condition before use.  
2. Based on the total length of cord that you are going to use, check the chart to make sure the cord meets  
the correct minimum cord gauge (AWG) requirements.  
IMPORTANT NOTE:  
Using an undersized cord, a larger number cord gauge (AWG) than recommended in the chart, will  
cause a loss in power and overheating of the tiller.  
Using a smaller number cord gauge (AWG), than recommended in the chart, is acceptable.  
Extension Cord Chart (minimum cord gauge (AWG))  
Length (feet)  
1 to 25  
18  
26 to 50  
16  
51 to 100  
14  
101 to 150  
12  
Cord gauge (AWG)  
3
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
E. Warnings - Do’s  
Read and understand the owner’s manual. Pay  
particular attention to all sections regarding safety.  
8. Always wear eye protection. Eye protection must  
meet ANSI Z 87.1.  
1. Always keep a firm grip on both handles while the 9. Start the tiller carefully, according to the  
tines are moving. BE AWARE!! The tines may coast  
after the triggers are released. Make sure tines have  
come to a complete stop before letting go of the tiller.  
instructions on page 8.  
10. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure  
the equipment is in safe working condition.  
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.  
11. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the  
machine towards you.  
12. Work only in daylight or good artificial light.  
13. Always be sure of your footing on slopes.  
3. Thoroughly inspect the area where equipment is to  
be used and remove all objects, which can be thrown  
by the machine.  
14. Exercise extreme caution when changing  
direction on slopes.  
15. Always keep a safe distance between two or more  
people when working together.  
4. Always keep area clear of children, pets, and  
bystanders.  
16. Always inspect your unit before each use and  
ensure that all handles, guards and fasteners are  
secure, operating, and in place. Be sure that all  
electrical cords are not damaged or broken.  
5. Always stay alert. Watch what you are doing and  
use common sense. Do not operate unit when  
fatigued.  
6. Always dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing  
or jewelry, they might get caught in moving parts.  
Use sturdy gloves. Gloves reduce the transmission of  
vibration to your hands. Prolonged exposure to  
vibration can cause numbness and other ailments.  
17. Always maintain and examine your tiller with  
care. Follow maintenance instructions given in  
manual.  
18. Always store tiller in a sheltered area (a dry  
place), not accessible to children.  
7. While working, always wear substantial footwear  
and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when  
barefoot or wearing open sandals.  
F. Warnings - Don’ts  
1. Don’t use tiller with one hand. Keep both hands on 6. Don’t allow children or incapable people to  
handles with fingers and thumbs encircling the grips  
when the tines are moving.  
operate this tiller.  
7. Don’t operate while under the influence of  
2. Don’t overreach. Keep a good footing at all times. alcohol or drugs.  
3. Don’t run with the machine, walk.  
8. Don’t attempt to repair this tiller. Have repairs  
made by a qualified dealer or repairman. See that  
only original MANTIS parts are used.  
4. Don’t work on excessively steep slopes.  
5. Don’t attempt to clear tines while they are moving.  
Never try to remove jammed material before  
unplugging the cord and making sure the tines have  
stopped completely.  
9. Don’t run the tiller in rain or wet conditions.  
4
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
A sse m b ly  
WARNING  
DANGER  
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OFTHISTILLER CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.  
MAKE SURETO FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.  
IFYOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT  
1-800-366-6268 OR AN AUTHORIZED DEALER.  
A. Parts  
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller comes partially  
assembled. You must install only the handlebars, the  
handle brace, and the tines. This will take just a few  
minutes if you follow the directions.  
62  
54, 55  
First, take all items out of the carton. But do not  
remove the cardboard from around the tiller’s base.  
The list below, 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.  
1
14  
7
To assemble your MANTIS Electric Tiller, you’ll  
need two 7/16" wrenches. 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.  
10  
Qty. Description  
*Key #  
1
1
2
1
1
Upper Handle Assembly  
Upper Handle Trigger Assembly  
Lower Handles  
7
1
10  
12  
Pair Tiller/Cultivator Tines  
Motor Assembly (includes Fender  
Guard, WormGear Transmission  
& Complete Housing)  
Handle Brace  
Bag of Hardware Containing:  
Round Head Square Neck Bolts  
Lock Nuts  
Bolts (3" long)  
Tine Retaining Pins  
Handle Clamps  
Bolts (1" long)  
Knobs  
54/55  
13  
62**  
14  
16  
1
1
2
4
2
2
2
2
2
2
20  
16  
17  
20  
53  
19  
13  
12  
18  
18  
17  
19  
53  
Cable Clamp  
*These numbers are the same numbers shown on the Parts Layout on  
pages 16 and 17.  
**This Key # is for assembly purposes only.  
5
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
B. Lower Handle Assembly  
To identify part numbers, see page 5 and 17.  
1. Use the protective cardboard sleeve to stabilize  
your tiller. Stand the motor assembly (#62) up.  
(Picture 1)  
2. Lay the handle parts within easy reach. You’ll need  
one of the handle clamps (#19) and one of the lower  
handles (#10). Note that the lower handles have a  
short leg on one end.  
3. Fit the handle clamp along the outside of the short  
leg. Line up the holes on the clamp and the leg.  
4. Choose one of the two 3-inch bolts (#20). Slide it  
through the first set of holes — near the elbow where  
the lower handle curves. (Picture 2)  
Picture 1  
Picture 2  
Picture 3  
5. Now slide the other lower handle onto the 3-inch  
bolt. Fit the other clamp onto this other handle’s short  
leg. Add a nut and tighten finger tight. (Picture 3)  
6. Locate the worm gear housing. It starts just  
above — and extends down through — the tiller’s  
red fender guard. You’ll notice that there’s a  
recessed channel on either side of the housing’s top.  
(Picture 4.)  
7. Take the lower handles that you’ve just put  
together. Slide them into the two recessed  
channels.(Picture 5.)  
Make sure you insert them from the rear of the tiller -  
so that the bolt fits along the back of the housing.  
8. Slide the second 3-inch bolt through the second set  
of holes in the short legs and clamps. Add a nut and  
tighten finger tight.  
NOTE: THE NUTS ARE SELF LOCKING,  
BUT YOU MUST USE A WRENCH TO  
TIGHTEN THEM COMPLETELY.  
Picture 4  
Picture 5  
6
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
C. Upper Handle Assembly  
1. Attach the upper handle assembly (#1) – the handle  
with the power cord – to the right lower handle (#10)  
and secure with the handle knob (#12).  
(Picture 1 and 2)  
2. Follow the same steps to install the left upper  
handle onto the left lower handle. (Picture 3)  
3. Use the clip (#18) to secure the power cord in  
place on the lower handle. (Picture 4)  
4. Now install the Handle Brace (#14). Line it up with  
the holes on the upper handles. Then insert a Bolt  
(#13) and a Lock Nut (#17) on either side (Picture 5)  
5. Use a wrench to tighten Bolt (#13) and  
Lock Nuts (#17).  
6. Now use wrench to tighten all nuts and bolts firmly  
and securely.  
Picture 3  
Picture 2  
Picture 1  
Picture 4  
Picture 5  
7
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
D. Assemble the Tines for Tilling  
Assembling the Tines for Tilling  
1. Remove the cardboard from around your  
tiller’s base.  
2. Slide the tines onto the axle shafts. The “D” hole  
goes on the outside.  
3. Make sure you’ve installed the tines properly for  
tilling. Liken the tines to your fingers. When your  
palm faces the ground, your fingers curl down. Stand  
behind the tiller and hold your hand next to the tines.  
Do the tine blades curl down, as your fingers do? If  
so, they are in the tilling position. (To switch to the  
cultivating position, see page 12.)  
4. To secure each tine to the axle, insert a tine  
retaining pin.  
IMPORTANT NOTE:  
Before you use your MANTIS Tiller, read the Safety Rules & Warnings on pages 2-4.  
Be fo r e Yo u Be g in T illin g  
A. Starting  
Starting your MANTIS Electric Tiller is easy.  
1. Simply loop your extension cord through the built-in extension cord holder. This is provided to secure the  
extension cord and help prevent it from becoming detached.  
2. Connect the extension cord to the power cord on the tiller. (Picture 1)  
3. Plug the extension cord into an outlet.  
4. Pick a speed. (Picture 2)  
CAUTION: This Tiller is Strong (Powerful). If you are starting the unit for the first time, the Tiller will  
start quickly. Be sure to start the Tiller in the low speed (#1), until you get used to it.  
5. Squeeze the triggers to begin tilling. (Picture 3)  
Picture 3  
Picture 2  
Picture 1  
8
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
B. Getting Your Tiller to the Garden  
Walk it.  
Put the tiller in 1st speed; you can “walk” it to your  
garden. Just squeeze the triggers and let the tiller “tip-  
toe” across your yard on its tines. It won’t hurt your  
lawn or driveway. (Picture 1)  
Carry It.  
Make sure the power cord is unplugged from the  
extension cord. Then use one hand to grasp the  
convenient carrying handle. Use the other hand to  
hold the handlebars. (Picture 2) Then lift your tiller  
and carry it to your garden. Since it weighs only 21  
pounds, it won’t strain your muscles or tire you out!  
Picture 1  
Take It for a Ride.  
You can easily transport your MANTIS Electric Tiller  
to a friend’s or relative’s house. Simply fold down the  
handles, then store your tiller in the trunk of your car  
or truck. It fits easily. And you can put it in and take  
it our without straining your back. (Picture 3)  
WARNING  
DANGER  
NEVER CARRYYO UR TILLER AS THE PERSO N IN  
PICTURE 4 IS DO ING. IF YO U DO,AND THE TINES  
ENGAGE,YO U CO ULD SUFFER SERIO US INJURY.  
Picture 2  
Picture 3  
Picture 4  
9
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
T illin g  
WARNING  
DANGER  
THE OPERATOR OFTHISTILLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS  
OR HAZARDS OCCURRING TO HIMSELF, OTHER PEOPLE  
ORTHEIR PROPERTY.  
A. Now You’re Ready to Use Your MANTIS Electric Tiller  
If you’ve seen other tillers, your MANTIS Electric  
Tiller may surprise you. It tills best when you pull it  
backward! When you pull your MANTIS Electric  
Tiller backward, you give extra resistance to the tines,  
so they dig deeper. (Picture 1).  
What’s more, when you go backward, you erase  
footprints. So your soil stays light and fluffy. While  
other tillers, by contrast, you walk right over the soil  
you’ve just tilled, packing it down.  
Picture 1  
B. Run Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Like a Vacuum  
Place your tiller at the head of the row or area you  
want to till. Turn it on. Then use an easy rocking  
motion. First, pull your tiller backward. Then use an  
easy rocking motion. Again, pull your tiller backward.  
Then let it move forward just a little bit. Then pull it  
backward again. This will help you till deeper.  
Keep repeating these steps until you’ve tilled an  
entire row. Start again on the next row. It’s a lot like  
running a vacuum. (Picture 2)  
Picture 2  
C. You Can Even Control Depth  
For Deeper Tilling:  
Move your tiller slowly back and forth, as you would  
a vacuum cleaner. Work the same area over and over  
until you’ve dug to your desired depth. (Picture 3)  
For Shallow Tilling:  
Switch the tines to the cultivating position. (See pg.  
12 to learn how) Then move you tiller quickly over  
your soil surface.  
For Big Weeds or Tough Roots  
Picture 3  
Let your tiller rock back and forth over the tough  
spot, until the tines slice through the weed or root.  
10  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
D. Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Handles Special Tilling Projects  
Want to turn part of your lawn into a colorful flower  
border?  
Your MANTIS Electric 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.  
T illin g / C u lt iva t in g  
WARNING  
DANGER  
IFYOURTINES GET JAMMED OR ENTANGLED,TURN OFFTHE  
TILLER AT ONCE. REMOVETHE OBSTRUCTION ONLYW HILE  
THETILLER IS UNPLUGGED.  
NEVERTRYTO REMOVE AN OBSTRUCTION W HILETHETILLER IS IN  
THE ON POSITION OR PLUGGED IN. SERIOUS INJURY CAN RESULT.  
A. How About a Family-Size Vegetable Garden?  
Nowadays many gardeners prefer small gardens —  
especially in the suburbs, where space is at a  
premium. But, if you’re fortunate enough to own a  
large lot, you can create a bigger garden — a half  
acre or more. Here’s how:  
2. Then, use your tiller to break up any remaining  
clumps of soil or sod. Unlike a tractor or big tiller,  
your MANTIS Electric Tiller is a precision tool. It  
will pulverize your soil into a smooth seed bed.  
1. First, hire someone with a tractor or big tiller to  
break ground for you. This is a one-time-only  
investment that’s well worth the small cost.  
B. Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Makes Weeding a Pleasure!  
As a tiller, your MANTIS Tiller works the soil down  
to 10" (25.4 cm) deep. But, as a cultivator, it gently  
cultivates the surface, only 2" to 3" (5.09 cm to 7.62  
cm) deep.  
First, you must switch the tines to the weeding  
position. This takes less than a minute.  
Then, your MANTIS Electric Tiller’s sharp “tine  
teeth” will slice up those pesky weeds, burying them  
as you go along. And, since the tines in this position  
won’t dig too deep, they won’t hurt your plants’  
precious root systems.  
The result? Your tiller will cut your weeding time in  
half, and turn a tiresome chore into a pleasure.  
11  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
C. How to Switch From Tilling to Cultivating Position  
1. Make sure your tiller is off and unplugged.  
2. Remove the retaining pins from the tines.  
3. Remove the tines from the axle.  
4. Place the right-side tine onto the left-side axle.  
Place the left side tine onto the right-side axle. The  
“D” hole should be to the outside.  
5. Here is how to make sure you’ve installed the tines  
properly. Stand behind the tiller and hold your hand,  
palm up, next to the tines. Do the tine points curl up,  
as your fingers do? If so, they are in the correct  
cultivating position. (See photos below)  
6. Reinsert the pins.  
D. Now You’re Ready to cultivate or Weed.  
Guide your tiller where you want to weed and start it  
up. Pull your tiller backward slowly, then let it move  
forward a bit, in a gentle rocking motion. Watch it  
slice, shred, and bury those weeds!  
Tine  
Tine  
Got tough weeds? Select a slower speed to slow your  
tiller down. Then work back and forth until your tiller  
chops up the weeds. It’s easy and effective!  
Rotation  
Rotation  
Tine  
Teeth  
Tine  
Teeth  
Remember, any tiller will tangle in tall grass, stringy  
vines, or super-big weeds. So, if you have a  
“backyard jungle,” first use a knife, pruner, or brush  
cutter to chop up the overgrowth. If the tines become  
tangled anyway, turn the motor and unplug the tiller  
before trying to clear them.  
Back  
Front  
Back  
Front  
Tilling Position  
Cultivating 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.  
Tine teeth point in the  
opposite direction as  
the rotation of the tine.  
Tines point toward the  
back of the tiller, or  
toward the operator.  
The optional tine Detangler (Item #1322) will clear  
tines in a jiffy. Contact your local authorized  
MANTIS dealer.  
E. Your MANTIS Electric Tiller Will Weed Between Narrow Rows!  
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller is a precision weeder  
that easily fits in tight places. So don’t be afraid to  
weed anywhere: between plants and shrubs; in  
corners; against fences; on raised beds; in wide rows;  
even in very narrow rows. Your MANTIS Electric  
Tiller weeds six* to nine inches wide. So you can run  
it in a tightly planted garden without damaging your  
delicate plants. That’s good news for suburban  
gardeners, who often have to plant rows close  
together!  
*With optional Planter/ Furrower attachment (Item #6222.)  
12  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
U sin g t h e Bo r d e r Ed ge r A t t a c h m e n t  
Your MANTIS Electric Tiller has been designed and  
built to accept a wide range of MANTIS Electric  
Tiller Attachments to increase its usefulness in your  
lawn and garden. And, all MANTIS Electric Tiller  
Attachments have been designed for quick and easy  
attachment to the tiller or Engine.  
blade’s pointed face should hit the ground when you  
spin the blade forward. (Picture 1)  
3. Slide the wheel onto the left axle.  
4. Insert retaining pins on both sides.  
How to Use the Border Edger  
The Border Edger (Item #3222)  
1. Position your MANTIS Electric Tiller so that the  
Edger blade is right along the garden edge and the  
wheel is outside (on the lawn, on the sidewalk,  
wherever). (Picture 2)  
The most popular attachment, the Border Edger can  
be used to cut clean, neat edges along walkways, or  
around trees, shrubs, and  
garden beds.  
2. Start your tiller and pull your MANTIS backward  
along the garden edge.  
The Border Edger has two  
parts: a wheel and a  
hardened steel blade, with  
pointed tines.  
The Border Edger Can Handle Special Projects!  
1. Install the Edger for deep edging, as directed  
above. Then use it to cut sod strips.  
2. Edge and weed at the same time! Just attach the  
Edger blade on one axle and a tiller tine on the other  
axle, “Mix and match” blades; don’t be afraid to  
experiment.  
How to Install the  
Border Edger  
The following instructions  
refer to “right” and “left”  
axles. Assume that you’re  
standing behind your  
tiller, as you would for  
tilling and cultivating.  
IMPORTANT NOTE:  
If you do a lot of edging, you’ll appreciate the  
MANTIS Wheel Set (Item#9222.) It gives you added  
stability, for even easier handling.  
Picture 1  
To order the Wheel Set, or any MANTIS Attachment,  
contact your local authorized MANTIS dealer.  
Some areas of your yard may harbor roots and other  
underground obstructions. In places like this you’ll  
want to edge your borders shallowly (1" to 2" deep).  
Here’s how to install the Border Edger for shallow  
edging:  
1. First remove your tilling/cultivating tines.  
2. Then slide the edger’s wheel onto the right axle.  
3. Now slide the Edger blade onto the left axle. The  
blade’s angled face should hit the ground when you  
spin the blade forward. (Picture 2)  
4. Insert retaining pins on both left and right axles.  
Around walkways and garden beds, you’ll want to  
edge more deeply (3" to 4" deep). Here’s how to  
install the Border Edger for that purpose:  
Picture 2  
1. Remove the tilling/cultivating tines.  
2. Slide the Edger’s blade onto the right axle. The  
13  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Tr o u b le sh o o t in g  
A. What to Do if Your Electric Tiller Stops Running  
1. If nothing happens when you squeeze the triggers,  
make sure the tiller is plugged in or that the cord is  
not damaged.  
7. Make sure that the circuit breaker hasn’t been  
tripped at your power source: whether it’s your  
house, a generator, or an outdoor outlet.  
2. If it still does not work, unplug the Electric Tiller  
from the power source.  
3. Inspect the tines to make sure your tines are clear  
of rocks or debris. Clear any debris that may be  
preventing the tines from spinning.  
4. Remove the tines to make sure all of the debris has  
been cleared.  
5. Check the circuit breaker on the Electric Tiller.  
Make sure the button hasn’t popped.  
6. If the button has popped, press the button back in.  
If the circuit breaker button doesn’t stay in, wait  
approximately 30 seconds and retry. (Picture 1)  
Picture 1  
B. How to Reseat the Motor Housing  
At some point, you may find that the tines won’t turn  
If you’ve followed these steps properly, there will be  
when you squeeze the throttle. This may mean the motor no gap between the bottom housing and the worm  
isn’t sitting all the way down on the worm gear housing. gear housing. (Picture 3) Make sure you tighten the  
housing screws!  
Perhaps you’ve been using your tiller for several  
years. The housing screw bolt (Key #22) may have  
come loose and lifted the motor up.  
If this happened you’ll notice a gap between the  
bottom of the bottom housing (Key #24) and the top  
of the worm gear housing. (Picture 2)  
To fix this, loosen the housing screw. Take the motor  
and housing off the worm gear housing. Notice the  
hex head on top of the drive shaft (Key #21). Inside  
the bottom housing, you’ll find the coupler driver  
(Key #26). Make sure the hex head lines up with the  
coupler driver inside the bottom housing.  
Picture 2  
Picture 3  
Then put the motor back on the worm gear housing.  
C. The Tines Don’t Seem to Dig Like They Used To  
If the tines are not performing as they did when you  
first bought the tiller, inspect them for excessive wear.  
IMPORTANT NOTE:  
To keep your MANTIS Electric Tiller running as  
efficiently as possible, always make sure the tines  
are clear of rocks and debris.  
To order replacement Tines contact your local  
authorized MANTIS dealer.  
If you continue to experience problems, contact  
your local authorized MANTIS dealer.  
14  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Ma in t e n a n c e  
A. How to Check the Grease Level Inside the Worm Gear Housing  
When we built your MANTIS Electric Tiller, we  
lubricated the worm gear housing thoroughly.  
It is imperative that you inspect the grease level once  
a year. Simply remove the cover plate on the worm  
gear housing. (Picture 1) Then check to make sure the  
grease comes almost to the top of the housing. If it  
doesn’t, add lithium #0 grease (Item M9985.) This is  
the only way to add grease to the worm gear housing.  
(Picture 2) To purchase MANTIS grease, contact  
your local authorized MANTIS dealer.  
Picture 1  
Please do not overfill. Too much grease can create  
pressure, which could cause seals to fail or the clutch  
to slip.  
Picture 2  
S t o r a ge  
1. Clean dirt, grass and other materials from the entire  
machine.  
2. Wipe the tines with oil or spray them with WD-40,  
to prevent rusting.  
3. Check the grease level in the gear housing, as  
described on page 13.  
4. Order new parts to replace any that are badly worn  
or broken. Contact your local authorized MANTIS  
dealer.  
Picture 3  
5. Store your tiller in a clean, dry place. You can store  
with the handles in an extended position (Picture 3) or  
folded down. (Picture 4)  
6. To fold down the handles, follow these easy steps:  
Loosen the handle knobs (#12), fold the handles  
forward or back. (Picture 4) Tighten knob securely.  
Your handles are now folded and ready to store in a  
smaller area.  
IMPORTANT NOTE:  
Handles can fold back or forward. When folding  
handles back, as show in picture #4, be careful not  
to damage the 3-speed switch.  
Picture 4  
15  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
P a r t s Ex p lo sio n  
P/N 438LA  
DIRECTION  
Raised Hub  
Teeth point in  
a Clockwise  
Direction  
When you look at a Tine with the raised hub facing you  
and the teeth are pointing in a CLOCKWISE rotation,  
you have a LEFT HAND TINE.  
P/N 438RA  
DIRECTION  
Raised Hub  
Teeth point in  
a Counter  
Clockwise  
Direction  
When you look at Tine with the raised hub facing you and  
the teeth are pointing in a COUNTER CLOCKWISE  
rotation, you and a RIGHT HAND TINE.  
16  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
P a r t s List  
Key No. Part No. Qty. Description  
Key No. Part No. Qty. Description  
1
2
3
4
5
6
420200  
420206  
420203  
3033  
1
1
1
1
1
Handle, Right Side Assy  
Power Cord  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
420107  
420900  
420131  
420128  
3016  
1
1
1
1
1
2
Motor Mounting Plate  
120V PM Motor  
Trigger, Trigger lock, Button  
Switch Normally Open  
Assembled PC Board w/Switch  
#8-11 x 3/4 Combo Sl Torx T-20  
Pan Steel Plastite 45-1 Case Harden  
Handle, Left Side Assy  
Motor Cord  
Housing Set w/Circuit Breaker  
Circuit Breaker  
420123  
Strain Relief  
310500 24  
3041  
3.5 x 13mm Ph Pan Metric Tapping  
Screw DIN 7981, Steel, Zinc  
Worm Gear Housing  
Worm Gear Bearing  
Bearing Seal  
7
420207  
420127  
420213  
420214  
400230  
400510  
400509  
420113  
420601  
410  
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
2
4
2
2
2
1
1
36  
37  
38  
39  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
45  
46  
47  
48  
49  
50  
51  
52  
53  
54  
55  
56  
57  
58  
59  
60  
61  
466  
1
2
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
4
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
8
432  
9
Handle Upper FDH- Black  
Handle Lower FDH- Black  
Plug Handle  
434  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
435  
Bearing Seal Retainer  
Tine Shaft  
431  
Handle Knob  
423  
Roller Bearing  
Bolt  
425  
Worm Bearing Race  
Worm Thrust Bearing  
Worm  
Handle Brace  
424  
Label Brace Elec. Tiller  
Cap Screw 1/4-20 x 1" Lg.  
Locknut 1/4-20  
400204  
458  
Roller Bearing  
972  
426  
Worm Disk  
478  
Cable Clamp KMC#BW1208H6  
Handle Clamp  
428  
Retaining Ring  
377  
430  
Worm Gear Thrust Washer  
Worm Gear  
470  
1/4-20 x 3" Bolt  
400205  
436  
468  
Drive Shaft (Also in Key #61)  
8-32 x 7/8 6-Lobe Torx Equiv Pan  
M/S, with T-20 Driver Size  
8-32 Hex Machine Screw Nuts,  
Steel, Zinc  
Gasket  
420513  
420150  
651  
Housing Cover  
Rd. Hd. Self Tapping Screw  
Tine Retaining Hair Pin  
Tine Assembly (L.H.)  
Tine Assembly (R.H.)  
Fender Guard  
23  
420514  
1
418-1  
438LA  
438RA  
465  
24  
25  
420134  
420512  
1
6
Bottom Housing  
10-32 x 1/2 6-Lobe Torx Equiv Pan  
M/S, with Spec T-20 Driver Size  
Coupler Driver  
140  
Bolt 1/4-20 x 3/8" Lg.  
Warning Fender Label  
Mantis Label  
26  
27  
28  
29  
420224  
420222  
420223  
420511  
1
1
1
4
420600  
4058  
110637  
400011  
Coupler Shock Absorber  
Coupler Housing  
Serial/UPC Label  
Electric Tiller Trans w/ drive shaft  
1/4-20 x 1/2 Socket Head Cap  
Screw, Plain Steel  
17  
Electric Tiller  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
MANTIS extends only to the original consumer  
purchaser a limited warranty against defects in  
material and workmanship for a period of two  
years from date of purchase. This warranty  
covers all portions of the MANTIS Electric  
Tiller.  
MANTIS MAKES NO EXPRESS  
WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATION  
EXCEPT THOSE CONTAINED HEREIN.  
THE DURATION OF ANY IMPLIED  
WARRANTY, INCLUDING  
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR  
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, IS LIMITED  
TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS  
WARRANTY. MANTIS DISCLAIMS ALL  
LIABILITY FOR INDIRECT AND/OR  
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME  
STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS  
ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED  
WARRANTY LASTS AND/OR DO NOT  
ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR  
LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR  
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THAT  
ABOVE LIMITATIONS AND  
MANTIS will repair or, at its option, replace any  
defective part or parts of the product free of  
charge. In the event of a defect or malfunction,  
the purchaser must return the product to an  
authorized MANTIS dealer.  
MANTIS assumes no responsibility in the event  
that the product was assembled or used in  
contravention of any assembly, care, safety, or  
operating instructions contained in the Owner’s  
Manual; was not used with reasonable care; or  
was used for other than normal and intended  
purposes.  
EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO  
YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU  
SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU  
MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS  
WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.  
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.  
P/N 420701 4/03  
©2002 Mantis. Schiller-Pfeiffer, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Lanzar Car Audio Marine Radio AQTB8 User Manual
Lenovo Laptop G480 User Manual
Lowrance electronic Marine GPS System ELITE 5 HDI User Manual
LSI Network Card 20860 User Manual
Mace Security Camera CAM 90 User Manual
Makita Impact Driver 6952 User Manual
Makita Nail Gun AN621 User Manual
Makita Power Screwdriver 6831D User Manual
McCulloch Chainsaw MAC 3 14XT User Manual
Metz Flat Panel Television MF 55TK36 User Manual