Operator’s Manual
Rear-tine PTO Tiller Models
682J—HorseTM
E686N—HorseTM
E682L—HorseTM
Model 682J Shown
IMPORTANT:READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester
for the muffler is available by contacting the service department at Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131, CLEVELAND, OH 44136-0019
PRINTED IN USA
FORM NO. 770-10598C
(9/2003)
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Section
1
Safety
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.
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.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
6. Warning: Handle fuel with care; it is
highly flammable and its vapors are
explosive. Be sure to take the following
precautions:
once the engine starts, the Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever is in the ENGAGE position,
the Forward Interlock Levers are squeezed
closed and the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever is shifted to FORWARD. The tines
rotate in Reverse whether the Interlock
Levers are closed or open.
Training
1. Carefully read this Owner’s Manual, the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and any
other literature you may receive. Be thor-
oughly 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.
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.
2. Exercise extreme caution when on or
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do
not carry passengers.
2. Never allow children to operate the
tiller. Never allow adults to operate the
tiller without proper instruction.
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.
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.
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.
4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or
falling.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the
tiller is to be used and remove all foreign
objects.
e. Replace all fuel tank and container
caps securely.
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 imme-
diately for the cause. Vibration is
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.
2. Put the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
into NEUTRAL before starting the engine.
generally a warning of trouble.
3. Do not operate the tiller without
wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid
loose garments or jewelry that could get
caught in moving parts.
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.
7. Never make adjustments when engine
is running (unless recommended by
manufacturer).
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.
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Do not allow hands or any
other part of the body or clothing near the
rotating tines or near any other moving
part. The tines begin to rotate forward
7. Take all possible precautions when
leaving machine unattended. Stop engine.
Disconnect spark plug wire and move it
away from spark plug. Remove ignition
key on electric start models
5. Do not till near underground electric
cables, telephone lines, pipes or hoses. If
in doubt, contact your telephone or utility
company.
3
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Section 1: Safety
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.
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 shifting the
Antidotes:
External– Flush immediately with lots of
water.
Internal– Drink large quantities of water
or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia,
beaten eggs or vegetable oil. Call a
doctor immediately.
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
into NEUTRAL. If you can not
reach the lever or have lost control
of the tiller, let go of the handle-
bars and all controls. Do not
attempt to restrain the tiller.
9. The flap on the tine hood must be
down when operating the tiller, unless
using the Hiller/Furrower attachment.
Eyes– Flush with water for 15 minutes.
Get prompt medical attention.
10. Never use the tiller unless proper
guards, plates, or other safety protective
devices are in place.
26. DANGER– BATTERIES PRODUCE
EXPLOSIVE GASES. Keep sparks, flame
or smoking materials away. Ventilate
when charging battery or using in an
enclosed space. Always wear safety
goggles when working near battery.
15. Do not overload the tiller’s capacity by
attempting to till too deeply at too fast a
rate.
11. Do not run engine in an enclosed
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide gas, a deadly poison that is
odorless, colorless, and tasteless.
16. Never operate the tiller at high
transport speeds on hard or slippery
surfaces. Look behind and use care when
backing up.
27. Please remember: You can always
stop the tines and wheels by releasing all
controls, or by moving the ignition switch
and/or throttle control lever on the engine
to OFF or STOP.
12. Keep children and pets away.
13. Never operate the tiller under engine
power if the Wheel Speed Lever is in the
FREEWHEEL position. In FREEWHEEL,
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 Wheel Speed Lever in
either FAST or SLOW position before
starting the engine or engaging the tines
with the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever.
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.
28. To load or unload the tiller, see the
instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.
29. Use extreme caution when backing or
pulling the machine towards you.
18. Never allow bystanders near the unit.
30. Start the engine carefully according to
instructions and with feet well away from
the tines.
19. Only use attachments and accessories
that are approved by the manufacturer of
the tiller.
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:
31. Never pick up or carry a machine
while the engine is running.
20. Use tiller attachments and acces-
sories when recommended.
32. When loading or unloading the tiller,
always disengage tines and use slower
wheel and engine throttle speeds. Use
sturdy ramps wide and strong enough to
easily support the tiller (280-to-325 lbs.,
depending on model) and operator.
Never go down ramps in FORWARD
drive—the tiller could tip forward,
exposing you to the tines (which should
be disengaged). Always use REVERSE
drive and back down ramps. To go up
ramps, use FORWARD drive and follow
the tiller.
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.
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 wheel, tine and engine
speeds.
d. Clear the tilling area of all large
stones, roots and other debris.
24. Do not touch engine parts which may
be hot from operation. Let parts cool
down sufficiently.
33. The Forward Interlock Safety System
should be tested for correct functioning
every time the tiller or PTO power unit is
used. See Section 4 in this Manual.
25. POISON/DANGER—CAUSES
SEVERE BURNS. The battery on electric
start models contains sulfuric acid. Avoid
contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Keep
out of reach of children.
34. If using the optional Dozer Blade,
either remove the tine attachment, or
disengage the tines with the Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever. Revolving tines are
dangerous.
e. Avoid using downward pressure on
handlebars. If need be, use slight
upward pressure to keep the tines
from digging too deeply.
4
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Section 1: Safety
4. To reduce the chances of a fire hazard,
keep the engine free of grass, leaves, or
excessive grease.
7. Never perform maintenance while the
engine is running or the spark plug wire is
connected, except when specifically
instructed to do so.
Maintenance and Storage
1. Keep the tiller, attachments and acces-
sories in safe working condition.
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.
2. Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure the equipment is in safe working
condition.
8. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do
this outdoors.
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.
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.
C) WARNING: Operating and
Safety Instructions
A) WARNING: Hot Surfaces.
Top of the air cleaner housing.
Decals
For your safety and the safety of others,
various safety and operational decals are
located on your unit (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.
E) Forward
D) Power Unit
Interlock
Operating
Lever (2)
Instructions
Refer to the Parts List for decal locations,
descriptions and part numbers.
F) Engine Stabilization.
Top of fuel tank.
B) WARNING: Engine Ignition.
Electric start models only.
Figure 1: Location of Safety and Operating Decals.
(Briggs & Stratton engine shown)
Operating Symbols
STOP
Various symbols (shown here, with word
descriptions) are used on the tiller and engine.
Your unit may not have all of the symbols.
CHOKE
ON
SLOW
FAST
CHOKE
OFF
ROTATING
TINES
STOP
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
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Section
2
Assembly
Factory if any items are missing or
damaged).
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.
NOTE: Use the screw length template
(Figure 2-1) to identify screws.
Loose Parts List
Qty.
1
1
Description
Handlebar Assembly
Wheels/Tines PTO Drive Lever
1
2
Introduction
The following items
are in the hardware bag:
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.
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
20 oz. Bottles SAE 30W Oil
Clutch Pawl Spring
Belt Adjusting Tool
Plastic Cable Ties
NOTE: Three different Horse model tillers
are covered in this Manual. Use only the
information applicable to your model.
Tiller engines vary by model. Your engine
may appear differently than those found
in illustrations of this manual.
Curved Head Screw, 1/4-20 x 2
Flanged Lock Nut, 1/4-20
Pan Head Screw, #10-32 x 1/2
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.
The following parts (electric start models
only), packaged separately.
2
2
2
Nuts, 1/4-20
(for battery terminals)
Inspect Unit
Screws, 1/4-20 x 5/8
(for battery terminals)
Keys
(in ignition switch)
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 2: Attach Handlebar
IMPORTANT: When disassembling
handlebar assembly, keep left-side clamp
and ratchet separated from the right-side
clamp and ratchet.
NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the
tiller are as viewed from the
operator’s position behind the han-
dlebars (unless otherwise noted).
1. Disassemble the handlebar assembly.
To do this, remove the height adjustment
lever by turning the lever in a counter-
clockwise direction (Figure 2-2).
Tools/Materials Needed
for Assembly
STEP 1: Unpacking Instructions
2. Place the handlebar ends on either side
of the base, with the wire harness toward
the rear of the base (Figure 2-2).
NOTE: Do not severely bend any of the
control cables on the unit.
(1) 3/8" open-end wrench*
(2) 7/16" open-end wrench*
(2) 1/2" open-end wrench*
(1) 9/16" open-end wrench*
(1) 3/4" open-end wrench*
(1) Flat blade screwdriver
(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties)
(1) Tire pressure gauge
3. Install the height adjustment lever
through the right-side clamp, handlebar
end, ratchet, and base; then out through
the left-side ratchet, handlebar end, and
clamp (Figure 2-2). Secure with nut, but
don't fully tighten.
1. The tiller is heavy. Do not attempt to
remove it from the shipping platform until
instructed to do so in these Assembly
steps.
2. Remove all unassembled parts from
the carton. The hardware bag is included
in your literature packaging.
IMPORTANT: Do not force the height
adjustment lever through the handlebars.
The interlock wires may be blocking the
(1) 4-1/2" high wood block to prop unit
* Adjustable wrenches may be used.
3. Check that you have the items listed
below (contact your local dealer or the
6
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Section 2: Assembly
lever and could be damaged. You may
gently move the wires aside if this
condition occurs.
Handlebars
Right
Clamp
Right
Ratchet
Left
Ratchet
4. Raise handlebars to one of two height
settings and tighten the height adjustment
lever. Also, make sure all other mounting
hardware is securely tightened.
Base
Left
Clamp
Left-Side
Clamp
and Nut
Height
Adjustment
Lever
Nut
Base
Bolt
Wire
Harness
FRONT
OF TILLER
Figure 2-3. Fully assembled handle-
bars.
Figure 2-2. Handlebar assembly.
NOTE: Fully assembled handlebar
assembly should appear as shown in
Figure 2-3.
STEP 3: Move Tiller Off Shipping
Platform
1. Set the Depth Regulator Lever
(A, Figure 2-4) to Travel position. Do this
by lifting the tiller by the handlebars, then
pulling straight back on the lever and
sliding down to the highest notched
setting.
B
A
C
D
Figure 2-5. Forward Interlock Wire
Harness connection.
yoke plates and the lever.
2. Set the Wheel Speed Lever (B, Figure
2-4) to Freewheel position. To do this,
move the lever approximately halfway
between the Fast and Slow settings while
you rock the tiller forward and backward
until the wheels move freely.
4. Align the rear most holes of the yoke
plates and the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever.
Use long nose pliers to hold the bushing
(L, Figure 27) in place while inserting the
screw (K) through the lever and yoke
plates. Install star washer (B, Figure 2-6)
and nut (A), then hand tighten.
Figure 2-4: Photo shows the Depth
Regulator Lever (A) and the Wheel
Speed Lever (B).
3. Lift Handlebars high enough to clear
tiller tines and pull back firmly to dislodge
the tiller from the platform wheel wells.
handlebar base and swing the handlebars
out to the right side.
STEP 4: Connect Forward
Interlock Wire Harness
1. Remove any dirt from the Forward
Interlock wire harness plug (C, Figure
2-5) and its receptacle (D).
5. Retrieve the clutch pawl spring (Figure
2-8) from hardware bag.
2. Remove both sets of nuts, star
washers, screws, and one bushing
(A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Figure 2-6) from the
yoke plates (H). There is a bushing inside
the short link (I). Be careful not to lose it
when removing screw (G).
2. Connect the Forward Interlock wire
harness plug (C, Figure 2-5) to the recep-
tacle (D).
3. Slide the plates at the end of the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever over the yoke
plates (Figure 2-9). To aid in the next
step, insert a screw temporarily into the
forward most holes (J, Figure 2-7) of the
STEP 5: Attach
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
1. Loosen the bolt (Figure 2-2) on the
7
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Section 2: Assembly
Remove the temporary screw (J, Figure
Completed assembly should appear as
2-7) from the forward holes and move the illustrated in Figure 2-9.
S
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever fully forward.
Install the wider hook end of the clutch
pawl spring (M, Figure 2-8) down into the
small hole at the end of the handle. Use
pliers to insert the other end into the hole
in the long link bar (N).
7. Test the operation of the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever. Push the lever
down until it engages in the Forward
position. The clutch roller (T, Figure 2-
10) must rest beneath the adjustment
block (U). Next, move the lever up to the
Neutral position. The clutch roller (T,
Figure 2-11) should rest on the face of the
adjustment block (U). To test Reverse, lift
and hold the lever all the way up in
Reverse position, then let it go. The lever
should automatically return to the Neutral
position (Figure 2-11). If not, do not use
the tiller. See your local authorized dealer
or call the Factory Technical Service
Department for instructions.
R
Q
NOTE: Do not bend or over stretch the
spring while installing.
P
6. Pull the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever back
to align the forward most holes (Q, Figure
2-9) in the yoke plate with the holes in the
lever plates. Also align the bushing that is
inside the short link bar (P). Install the
screw, star washer, and nut, then tighten
securely.
Figure 2-9: Fully assembled
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever assembly.
Securely tighten all other hardware (Q, R,
Figure 2-9). Also ensure that the spring
(S) is properly seated at both ends.
T
U
C
G
D
Figure 2-10 Forward position; roller
(T) rests under the adjustment
block (U).
H
F
B
A
E
I
T
U
Figure 2-6: Illustration shows the yoke plates (H), nuts, washers, and
screws (A, E, B, F, D, G), bushing (C), and long and short links (I, J).
Figure 2-11: Neutral position; roller
(T) rests against middle area of the
adjustment block (U).
N
STEP 6: Check Gear Oil Levels
K
Your tiller has two separate transmis-
sions: one for the Power Unit (Figure 2-
12), the other for the Tine Attachment
(Figure 2-13). Both transmissions were
filled at the factory with SAE #85W–140
weight gear oil (with an A.P.I rating of
GL-4). Check level in both transmis-
sions to verify that they are still correct.
See Section 5, Transmission Gear Oil
Maintenance for complete information
on how to check and fill the transmis-
sions.
M
J
L
Figure 2-8: Clutch pawl spring. Tilt
Wheels\Tines\PTO Lever fully
forward before installing spring.
Figure 2-7: Drive Lever assembly.
8
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Section 2: Assembly
IMPORTANT: Check gear oil level in both
transmissions after the first 2 hours of
new tiller operation, then every 30
operating hours thereafter. See Section 5
for instructions.
STEP 8: Attach Engine Throttle
Lever and Cable
For shipping purposes, the throttle cable,
together with the throttle lever, is wound
around the engine. Carefully unwind the
cable. If the throttle control label is
covered with a clear protective coating,
peel it off.
Oil Level Hole
WARNING
A
To avoid electric shock from a short
circuit (electric start tillers only), never
allow the throttle cable to touch the
battery. Route cable below the battery,
on the outside of the battery holder.
B
Figure 2-14: Engine Throttle Lever
position and installation.
To attach the throttle lever and cable:
Figure 2-12: Checking oil level on
Power Unit Transmission.
1. Run the throttle cable up the inside
edge of the right handlebar and position
the lever as shown in Figure 2-14.
Tie
Tie
2. From the outside of the handlebar,
insert the curved head screw (A, Figure 2-
14), through the handlebar and the center
hole in the throttle lever mounting
bracket.
Figure 2-15: Plastic Ties placement
on handlebars.
3. Loosely install the flanged lock nut
and move the throttle lever back to the
STOP position.
STEP 9: Adjust Air Pressure in
Tires
4. From the lever side of the bracket,
thread a pan head screw (B, Figure 2-14)
through the small hole in the throttle lever
bracket and into the handlebar. Tighten
the screw securely.
For shipping purposes, the tires may be
overinflated. Check the air pressure in
each tire and adjust them to between 10
and 20 pounds per square inch. You
must inflate each tire to equal air
pressures to prevent the tiller from pulling
to one side.
Figure 2-13: Checking oil level on
Tine Attachment Transmission.
STEP 7: Add Motor Oil to Engine
5. Securely tighten both the flanged lock
nut and the curved head screw.
1. Before adding motor oil, park the tiller
on level ground. Level the engine by
placing a sturdy block under the tines or
the tines depth regulator bar.
6. Use two plastic ties to secure the
throttle cable to the right handlebar in two
places (Figure 2-15). Loop each tie
around the handlebar and cable (serrated
side faces in) and pull the ties tight. Trim
the ends.
2. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual
provided with your tiller for detailed infor-
mation on how to add motor oil and for
motor oil specifications.
Assembly is complete for recoil start
tillers. See Assembling The Electric
Start System if you own an electric
start tiller; otherwise, refer to Section
3, Controls for information on tiller
controls.
IMPORTANT: Two 20 oz. bottles of motor
oil are included with your tiller. Check the
oil level as instructed in the Engine
Owner’s Manual provided with your tiller
BEFORE pouring the full amount of each
bottle into the engine.
IMPORTANT:
• Change engine oil after first 2 hours of
new operation.
• Check engine oil level every 5 hours of
operation or each use.
9
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Section 2: Assembly
ASSEMBLING THE ELECTRIC START SYSTEM
The following steps explain how to install and charge the battery on electric start tillers. For your safety, follow all steps and observe
all accompanying safety messages. Section 5 contains other general battery maintenance and recharging instructions.
1. Use a 5/8" long screw (K, Figure 2-18)
DANGER
To Avoid Personal Injury or Property
Damage:
DANGER
Battery produces explosive gases.
and 1/4-20 hex nut (L) to connect the
positive (+) battery cable (B) to the
positive (marked +) battery post (C).
Make sure that this is the cable on the left
side, with one end attached to the
solenoid (D).
• Keep away sparks, flames, and
cigarettes.
• Do not touch positive battery terminal
and any surrounding metal objects
with tools, jewelry or other metal
items. Failure to comply could cause
a short circuit leading to electrical
burns or explosion of battery gases.
• Ventilate area when charging or using
battery in an enclosed space.
2. Slide the black rubber boot (E) com-
pletely over the battery post and cable
connector.
• Make sure battery vent tube is always
open after battery is filled with acid.
3. Use a 5/8" long screw and 1/4-20 hex
nut to connect the negative (-) battery
cable (F) to the negative (marked -)
battery post (G) and secure with screw
(H) and nut (I).
• Never bring a gas can near the positive
(+) battery terminal. A short circuit
could occur leading to an explosion of
the gasoline or the battery gases.
Always fill the engine fuel tank from
the front or side of the engine.
WARNING
Remove metal jewelry before working
near the battery or near the electrical
system. Failure to comply may cause a
short circuit, resulting in electrical
burns, a shock, or battery gas
explosion.
4. Slide the black rubber boot (J) com-
pletely over the battery post and cable
connector.
DANGER
Never jump start the battery with a
vehicle battery or charging system. This
may produce a battery explosion,
causing acid or electrical burns.
Assembly is complete for electric start
tillers. See Section 3, Controls for
information on tiller controls.
NOTE: If the battery is put into
service after the date shown on the
top of the battery, charge for a
minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. Refer to the Maintenence
section of this manual for more
detailed instructions regarding
proper battery charging procedure
H
STEP 1: Connect the Wire
Harness Receptacle
K
G (-)
1. Before installing the battery and its
hold-down clamp, insert the plastic wire
harness receptacle (A, Figure 2-18) into
the prongs of the keyswitch (M) located
on the hold-down clamp.
J
OIL
I
C (+)
L
F
2. Remove the ignition keys from the
keyswitch and store them safely away.
Do not insert the key into the keyswitch
until you complete this section and read
Section 3, Controls.
E
B
M
A
STEP 2: Install the
Battery Cables
NOTE: The cable terminals should be
toward the rear (keyswitch side) of the
battery posts.
D
Figure 2-18: Battery cable assembly.
10
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Section
3
Features and Controls
G
WARNING
F
Before operating your machine,
carefully read and understand all
safety, controls, operating instructions
in this Manual, the separate Engine
Owner’s Manual and on the decals on
the machine.
A
B
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury.
E
C
Introduction
D
This section describes the location and
function of the controls and features on
your tiller. Refer to Section 4, Operation
for detailed operating instructions.
Practice using these controls, with the
engine shut off, until you completely
understand the operation of the controls
and feel confident with each of them.
Figure 3-1:
A– Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
B– Forward Interlock Levers
C– Wheel Speed Lever
D– Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
E– Depth Regulator Lever
F– Handlebar Height Adjustment Lever
G– Engine Throttle Lever
IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate engine
manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s Manual
for information about the controls on the
engine.
This lever has three operating positions:
FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tines or
any PTO attachment in REVERSE.
NOTE: All references to left, right, front
and rear of the machine are based on a
position behind the handlebars and facing
forward.
• FORWARD is engaged when the lever is
moved down until the clutch roller (G,
Figure 3-2) engages into the detent
position under the adjustment block (H,
Figure 3-2). You will definitely feel the
lever engage into this position.
• NEUTRAL is this control’s normal non-
operating position. The lever returns to
NEUTRAL when it is tapped out of the
FORWARD position or released from the
REVERSE position. NEUTRAL position
is between FORWARD and REVERSE
(Figure 3-3). Use this setting to stop
the wheels, tines or any PTO attach-
ment.
PTO Attachments Feature
In addition to powerful tilling capability,
you can quickly convert your machine
into a PTO (Power Take-Off) Power Unit
that is capable of towing or powering
various TROY-BILT attachments.
Use the FORWARD setting to move the
wheels and tines forward, or to apply
power to an optional PTO (Power Take
Off) attachment. (See also Forward
Interlock Levers.)
IMPORTANT: Always shift to NEUTRAL
before starting the engine or before
engaging the wheels, tines or any PTO
attachment.
You can access this capability by
removing the tines attachment (powered
by the PTO Power Unit). The PTO Power
Unit is then available for engine powered
attachments, or for pulling or towing non-
powered attachments. See Section 4,
PTO Power Unit for detailed information
on installing and operating TROY-BILT
PTO attachments.
To stop the wheels, tines or any PTO
attachment, move the lever to NEUTRAL
by tapping the lever upwards (Figure
3-3) and releasing.
Forward Interlock Levers
The Forward Interlock Levers (B,
Figure 3-1) are attached under each
handlebar grip.
• REVERSE is engaged when the lever is
pushed (with an open palm) all the way
up and held in that position (Figure 3-4).
Use this setting to move the wheels in
reverse. To stop moving in reverse,
release the lever; it automatically returns
to the NEUTRAL position.
You must squeeze at least one of these
interlock levers up against the handlebar
grip whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever is engaged in FORWARD
position.
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
Use the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever (A,
Figure 3-1) to engage and disengage
power to the transmission.
11
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Section 3: Features and Controls
If both Forward Interlock Levers are
IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission
damage, always move the Wheels/Tines/
PTO Drive Lever into NEUTRAL before
shifting the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever.
Verify Position of Clutch Roller
When you shift between FORWARD,
NEUTRAL and REVERSE, the clutch
roller at the base of the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever should
be positioned as shown in Figures 3-2,
3-3 and 3-4. Verify the position of the
clutch roller as you shift the lever. If it
is not positioned correctly, contact the
Factory or see your local authorized
dealer.
released before first returning the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
NEUTRAL, the engine will stop.
IMPORTANT: The Forward Interlock
Levers are a safety control that stops the
engine should you lose control while
going forward and cannot shift into
NEUTRAL.
Depth Regulator Lever
Use this lever (E, Figure 3-1) to regulate
the tilling depth of the tines. This control
also has a TRAVEL position, which
enables transport with the tines off the
ground.
Wheel Speed Lever
Use the Wheel Speed Lever (C, Fig. 3-1)
To operate the lever, lift up on the handle-
to select one of three operating positions: bars, pull the Depth Regulator Lever
SLOW, FAST or FREEWHEEL.
straight back, and then slide it up or down
to one of the eight detent height settings.
• SLOW – Lever moved all the way down.
Most effective for normal tilling or for
low-speed transport.
The eight detent positions offer a range of
tine height settings. This enables you to
select the height that is most effective for
a particular condition. The top detent
position is the TRAVEL setting. Use the
second or third detent from the top for
shallow tilling and cultivating. Use the
other detents for deeper tilling and for
power composting.
• FAST – Lever moved all the way up.
Most effective for cultivating or for fast-
speed transport.
• FREEWHEEL – Lever in between SLOW
and FAST (wheels will roll freely). Used
when transporting the machine on level
ground without engine power, and when
using stationary PTO attachments.
G
H
Figure 3-2: FORWARD position; roller
(G) rests under the adjustment block (H).
WARNING
IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission
damage, always move Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever into NEUTRAL before shifting
the Wheel Speed Lever.
To
avoid
personal
injury,
always place the tines in the TRAVEL
position before starting the engine.
This prevents the tines from touching
the ground until you are ready to begin
tilling.
IMPORTANT: When shifting into SLOW
or FAST, gently roll the machine forward
or backward to help fully engage the
wheel gears. When engaged, the wheels
will not turn unless the engine is running
and the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is
engaged in FORWARD or REVERSE.
G
H
Handlebar Height Adjustment
Lever
Figure 3-3: NEUTRAL position; roller
(G) rests against middle area of the ad-
justment block (H).
Use this lever (F, Figure 3-1) to adjust the
handlebars to one of two height settings.
Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
Use this lever (D, Figure 3-1) to engage or
disengage power from the transmission
PTO clutch to the tines or any PTO attach-
ment. This control has two operating
positions: ENGAGE and DISENGAGE.
1. To change the height, hold the handle-
bars with one hand and loosen the lever in
a counterclockwise direction.
2. Move the handlebars to one of the two
preset height settings.
• ENGAGE – Lever moved into detent slot
farthest from engine. Use this position to
operate tines or other PTO attachments.
After shifting to ENGAGE, briefly operate
machine in FORWARD to help fully
engage the PTO clutch.
3. Retighten the lever.
NOTE: You can swap the positions of the
inside handlebar ratchets to change the
two preset settings by approximately four
inches higher or lower. See Section 2,
Step 2: Attach Handlebar for detailed
assembly information.
G
H
• DISENGAGE – Lever moved into detent
slot nearest engine. Use this position to
disengage power to tines or other PTO
attachments before transporting, loading,
turning, or operating in reverse.
Figure 3-4: REVERSE position; roller
(G) rests against upper area of the ad-
justment block (H).
12
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Section 3: Features and Controls
Engine Controls
WARNING
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Engine
Owner’s Manual (included in the tiller lit-
erature package) to identify the controls
on your engine.
The tiller handlebars can be swung out
30o to the right side for use only with the
PTO Chipper/Shredder attachment. This
is done by loosening the mounting bolt
on the handlebar base. Never operate
your tiller or attachments, other than the
PTO Chipper/Shredder, with the handle-
bars in the right side position. Doing so
could result in unsafe handling and
personal injury.
IMPORTANT: An engine On/Off switch, a
secondary throttle control, a choke lever
and a fuel line shut-off control may be
located on the engine. Refer to your
Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed
information.
WARNING
Engine Throttle Lever
To avoid serious personal injury or
damage to equipment, do not start your
engine at this time. Complete starting
instructions are described in Section 4,
Operation.
Use the throttle lever (G, Figure 3-1) to
adjust engine speed as well as to start
and stop the engine.
Move the lever away from the STOP
position before starting the engine.
Engine speeds are variable and range
between the FAST and SLOW. Use the
STOP position to turn the engine off.
NOTE: A secondary throttle lever is
located on the front of the 8HP and 10HP
engines. A separate On/Off switch may
also be available on the engine. (See
Engine Owner’s Manual for information.)
Keyswitch Starter
The keyswitch starter on electric start
models (A, Figure 3-5) has three
positions: OFF, RUN and START. Turn
the key to START to start the engine.
Release the key and
it will return to the
RUN position. Turn
A
the key to OFF to
stop the engine.
(Another way to
stop the engine is to
move the engine
Figure 3-5
throttle lever to the
STOP position.)
13
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Section
4
Operation
2. Check unit for loose or missing
hardware. Service as required.
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.
3. Check engine oil level. See Engine
Owner’s Manual.
4. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive lever
(Figure 4-2) into NEUTRAL position. See
Section 3, Controls for more information
on this lever.
5. Check Safety Guards. All guards and
covers must be securely in place.
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury.
6. Check air cleaner. See Engine Owner’s
Manual.
INTRODUCTION
7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.
Read this Section of the manual
8. Check Engine Cooling System. Clear
cooling fins and air intake screen of
debris.
thoroughly before you start the engine.
Then, take the time to familiarize yourself
with the basic operation of the tiller
before using it in your garden. Find an
open, level area and practice using the
tiller controls without the tines engaging
the soil (put tines in Travel setting—
Section 3, Depth Regulator Lever). Only
after you’ve become completely familiar
with the tiller should you begin using it in
the garden.
Figure: 4-1
9. Select High/Low Belt Speed range.
2. After the first 2 hours of new
operation, check the gear oil levels in the
PTO Power Unit and the tine attachment
transmissions.
10. Adjust Handlebar Height.
11. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline in
accordance with the directions in the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow
all instructions and safety rules carefully.
3. Check for loose or missing hardware
on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.
4. Check tension on forward drive belt
after first 2 hours of operation.
DANGER
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND
ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE.
WARNING
Starting and Stopping the Engine
The following steps describe how to start
and stop the engine.
Your tiller and its optional PTO Power
Unit attachments are capable of
causing serious injury to untrained or
careless operators.
To avoid serious personal injury or
property damage, read the Owner’s
Manual that is provided with any
optional accessories or attachments
before using the tiller or PTO Power
Unit.
Follow gasoline safety rules in this
Manual (Section 1) and in the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual.
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to engage
the tines, wheels, or any PTO attachment
until you have read all of the operating
instructions 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.
Failure to follow gasoline safety instruc-
tions can result in serious personal
injury and property damage.
Pre-Start Checklist
Make the following checks and perform
the following services before starting the
engine.
Break-In Operation
Perform the following maintenance during
the first hours of new operation (see
Maintenance Section in this Manual and
maintenance information in the Engine
Owner’s Manual).
1. Read the Safety and Controls Sections
in this Manual. Read the separate Engine
Owner’s Manual provided by the engine
manufacturer.
1. Change engine oil after first 2 hours of
new engine operation.
14
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Section 4: Operation
Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever
Engine Throttle
Lever
Forward
Interlock Levers
Wheel
Speed
Lever
Depth
Regulator
Lever
Recoil Start Rope
(at front of engine)
Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever
Figure 4-2: Tiller and engine controls.
Starting the Engine:
3. Move the Wheel Speed Lever (Figure
10. If equipped with an electric start
4-2) to either the SLOW or FAST position.
system, turn key to START position to crank
Be sure to roll the wheels while shifting the engine then release when engine starts. If
CAUTION
prevent
personal injury or damage to equipment:
lever until the wheels engage.
the engine does not start right away, do not
hold key at START for more than a few
seconds. Release then try again after a short
pause. Damage to starter motor can occur if
it is cranked more than 15 seconds per
minute.
To
help
serious
NOTE: If using a PTO stationary attach-
ment, move the Wheel Speed Lever into
FREEWHEEL and block the wheels to
prevent the equipment from moving (Figure
4-29 on page 29).
• Always place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever into NEUTRAL before starting
engine, and before engaging wheels,
tines or other PTO-driven attachments.
11. If the engine does not start after a
number of tries, refer to the Engine Owner’s
Manual for specific instructions.
4. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into
DISENGAGE position (Figure 4-2).
• Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas.
12. When engine starts, move the Throttle
Lever to the SLOW position and then
gradually move choke lever (on engines so
equipped) to OFF or RUN position.
NOTE: Use the ENGAGE position if you want
the tines to revolve or to apply power to a
PTO-driven stationary attachment.
• Avoid engine muffler and nearby
areas. Temperatures in these areas
5. If engine is equipped with a fuel valve,
turn valve to OPEN position as instructed
in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
13. Move the throttle speed control to
FAST setting when tilling.
o
may exceed 150 F.
Starting Electric Start Engines
with the Recoil Starter Rope
You may, at some point, have to start an
electric start engine with the recoil starter
rope. Before attempting to do so,
6. If engine is equipped with an ON/OFF
switch, move the switch to ON.
1. With the engine off, place the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever (Figure
4-2) in the NEUTRAL position. If in the
FORWARD position, tap the lever sharply
upward, it should automatically move into
NEUTRAL position.
7. Move engine throttle lever (Figure 4-2)
away from STOP.
8. Choke or prime engine as instructed in
the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
perform the following applicable steps:
• If you suspect the battery charge is
weak, and there is no visible damage.
Disconnect cables from battery and
clean both cable terminals, and the
battery posts in accordance with the
instructions provided in Section 5,
Battery Care and Maintenance.
9. If not equipped with an electric start
system, place one hand on the fuel tank to
stabilize the unit when you pull the recoil
starter rope. Use the recoil starter rope to
start the engine as instructed in the
separate Engine Owner’s Manual.
2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the
Travel position (lever all the way down)
so that the tines are off the ground. To do
this, lift up on the handlebars, pull the
lever (Figure 4-2) back, and push it down
all the way to the top detent (notched)
position.
15
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Section 4: Operation
Reconnect the cables and securely
tighten to battery posts. The engine will STOP position. Then on electric start
recharge the battery if the battery is still models, turn the key to OFF. Remove the
2. Move the engine Throttle Lever to the
Moving the Tiller Forward and Tilling
1. Start the engine and gradually increase
engine speed to FAST (see Starting the
Engine, this Section).
good.
key for safekeeping.
• If you suspect the batter is “dead”, or if
the battery is damaged, disconnect, and
remove it. Have it checked by a
qualified technician.
NOTE: The engine may have a separate
Throttle Control Lever and ON/OFF switch
on the engine. These controls can also be
used to stop the engine. See the Engine
DANGER
The Forward Interlock Safety System is
designed for the operator’s safety. Do
not disconnect or attempt to defeat the
purpose of the system. If the system
malfunctions, immediately contact your
local authorized dealer or the
TROY-BILT Technical Service Depart-
ment for assistance. Do not use the
tiller or the PTO power unit until the
Forward Interlock Safety System is
functioning properly. Always test the
system before using the tiller or PTO
power unit.
• If battery has been removed, wrap cable Owner’s manual for information specific
terminals at end of positive cable with
electrical tape and secure the cable to
the battery bracket. This will prevent
electrical discharge.
to your engine.
Operating the Tiller
When first practicing, keep the Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever in DISENGAGE position and
the Wheel Speed Lever in SLOW position.
• Before pulling the recoil starter rope,
turn the keyswitch to the RUN position.
Move the Throttle Lever away from
STOP position and set the choke as
applicable. See Engine Owner’s Manual.
CAUTION
To avoid serious personal injury or
damage to equipment:
Cold Weather Operation
• Always place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever in NEUTRAL before starting
engine, and before engaging wheels,
tines or other PTO attachments.
o
When temperatures fall below 40 F, do
2. Test the Forward Interlock Safety
System. See Testing Forward Interlock
System, this Section.
the following steps to protect your
engine and transmission from damage:
1. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual
for motor oil specifications for cold
weather operation. Use winter blend
gasoline.
• Be sure there are no obstacles behind
you before moving in reverse.
WARNING
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever should
automatically return to NEUTRAL
when released from REVERSE
position. If it does not, move lever to
NEUTRAL manually and discontinue
use until you adjust the lever. See
Section 5, Checking and Adjusting
Reverse Drive System.
2. Warm up the engine before putting it
under a load.
3. Use winter-blend gasoline.
Keep away from rotating tines. Rotating
tines will cause injury.
4. Use the correct weight gear oil in PTO
Power Unit transmission.
3. When practicing, set the Depth
Regulator Lever to Travel position.
Otherwise, set the Depth Regulator Lever
to a desired depth.
5. Warm up the transmission gear oil as
follows: With engine running, move
Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2) to
FREEWHEEL (then block wheels so they
can’t roll), put Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
into DISENGAGE, then squeeze one of
the Forward Interlock Levers and shift
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
FORWARD.
• No reverse motion should occur if
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is not
held up in REVERSE. See Section 5,
Checking and Adjusting Reverse
Drive System for adjustment steps.
Do not use tiller unless properly
adjusted.
4. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to
ENGAGE position if you want the tines to
turn. If practicing, leave in DISENGAGE.
• Always return to NEUTRAL and let all
motion stop before shifting to
FORWARD or REVERSE.
IMPORTANT: Do not move Tines/PTO
Clutch Lever to ENGAGE unless
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is in
NEUTRAL. Tiller damage may occur!
6. If wheels are frozen to the ground,
melt ice with warm water.
The following pages provide guidelines
for 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.
5. To move the tiller forward and engage
the tines, squeeze and hold either Forward
Interlock Lever (Figure 4-3) against the
handlebar grip, then move the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever down to
FORWARD position.
Stopping the Engine and Tiller
1. To stop the wheels and tines, move the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever into
NEUTRAL position and then release both
Forward Interlock Levers.
This is a traditional standard-rotating-tine
(SRT) tiller with forward rotating tines. It
operates in a completely different manner
than counter-rotating-tine (CRT) tillers, or
from front-tine tillers.
16
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Section 4: Operation
Making Turns
Turning the tiller is easy and just requires
practice. First find the balance point
between the engine and the tines by lifting
up the handlebars (Figure 4-5). Once you
find the balance point, then let the
powered wheels do the turning as you
push sideways on the handlebars in the
direction of the turn. Practice the turning
maneuver described here in a large open
area. Once comfortable turning the tiller,
you can then take it to the garden area.
Figure 4-3: Moving tiller forward:
squeeze one Forward Interlock Lever
and then move Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever down to FORWARD.
1. At the end of a row, move the Wheels/
Tines/PTO Drive Lever (Figure 4-2) to
NEUTRAL position and reduce the engine
speed.
Figure 4-4: Guide tiller with one hand.
6. When the tiller moves forward, relax
and let the wheels power the tiller along
while the tines dig. Walk behind and to
one side of the tiller. Walk on the side
that is not yet tilled (Figure 4-4). Use a
firm grip on the handlebars but keep your
arm relaxed.
Moving the Tiller in Reverse
IMPORTANT: Do not till while in
REVERSE.
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
(Figure 4-2) into the DISENGAGE
position.
1. Shift the Tines/Wheels/PTO Drive Lever
(Figure 4-2) into NEUTRAL and move the
Wheel Speed Lever to the SLOW position.
3. Resume forward operation, and lift
handlebars until tines are off the ground
(Figure 4-5). Find the balance point
IMPORTANT: Let the tiller move ahead at
its own pace. Do not push it ahead—this
reduces operator control and tilling effi-
ciency. Do not push handlebars down in
an attempt to dig deeper— this takes
weight off the wheels, reduces traction,
and causes the tines to try to propel the
tiller.
2. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever (Figure
4-2) into DISENGAGE position.
between the engine and the tines. Then
push the handlebars in the direction of the
turn. Be very careful to keep feet and legs
away from the tines (which should be dis-
engaged). Let the powered wheels do the
hard work. The inside wheel will pivot in
place while the outside wheel drives the
tiller around in the direction of the turn.
3. Verify that the area behind you is clear.
4. Lift up the handlebars until the tines
are off the ground, then shift the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever all the way
up and hold. You do not need to squeeze
the Forward Interlock Levers to use
reverse.
Stopping Forward Motion and Tines
1. To stop forward motion, tap
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward
into NEUTRAL. Then release the Forward
Interlock Levers. The wheels and tines
will stop and the engine will continue
running.
5. The unit immediately engages in
reverse. Periodically check behind you
while holding the handlebars up and the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever in its upper-most
position.
2. In an emergency, release all of the
control levers. This stops forward motion
and shuts-off the engine.
Stopping Reverse Motion
Release the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever– the lever automatically returns to
the NEUTRAL position. This stops the
wheels immediately. (The Forward
Interlock Levers will not stop REVERSE
motion.)
CAUTION
To Help Avoid Personal Injury or
Damage to Equipment:
Figure 4-5: Turning the tiller.
NOTE: Use REVERSE if necessary to turn
in a limited space.
• Be sure no obstacles are behind you
before operating the tiller in REVERSE.
• Disengage the tines, reduce engine
speed, and move the Wheel Speed
Lever to SLOW position before
operating in REVERSE. Avoid using
FAST wheel speed until you are
familiar with backing the tiller.
To Stop the Engine
Move the engine Throttle Lever to the
STOP position. Then, on electric start
models, turn key to OFF. Remove the key
for safekeeping.
17
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Section 4: Operation
4. When the turn is complete, shift to
NEUTRAL and lower the handlebars.
Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever back to
ENGAGE position and resume forward
operation.
4. Start engine as described under
Starting and Stopping the Engine, in this
section. Set engine throttle lever to
SLOW, and let engine warm up.
DANGER
The Forward Interlock Safety System is
designed for the operator’s safety. Do
not disconnect or attempt to defeat the
purpose of the system. If the system
malfunctions, immediately contact your
local authorized dealer or the
TROY-BILT Technical Service Depart-
ment for assistance. Do not use the
tiller or the PTO power unit until the
Forward Interlock Safety System is
functioning properly. Always test the
system before using the tiller or PTO
power unit.
5. Squeeze and hold just one of the
Forward Interlock Levers against the
handlebar grip while moving the Wheels/
Tines/ PTO Drive Lever down to
FORWARD (Figure 4-3). As the tiller
moves forward, release the Forward Inter-
lock Lever briefly. The engine should
start to stall out if the interlock system is
working properly. If it does start to stall,
quickly squeeze the lever up against the
handlebar grip, and then return the
Wheels/ Tines/ PTO Drive Lever to
Transporting The Tiller Around
Your Property
When the engine is running, the tiller’s
powered wheels make moving the tiller to
and from the garden easy. If the engine is
not running set the Wheel Speed Lever to
FREEWHEEL position to roll the tiller to
another location.
WARNING
How to Check the Interlock System
To help avoid personal injury from
revolving tines, always put the
Tines/PTO Clutch Lever in DISENGAGE
position before transporting, loading, or
unloading tiller.
NEUTRAL. Repeat this test to check that
the engine begins to stall out when the
other Forward Interlock Lever is released.
The Forward Interlock System has an
electro-mechanical design, and so is
subject to normal wear and possible mal-
function. Check the system for proper
operation each time prior to using the
tiller or PTO power unit.
6. If the engine does not begin to shut off
when either Forward Interlock lever is
released, shut the engine off, remove the
key (if electric start), and do not operate
the tiller or PTO power unit until the
system has been repaired and is func-
tioning properly.
1. Place the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever in
DISENGAGE position.
2. Move Depth Regulator Lever down all the
way into the Travel setting.
IMPORTANT: To avoid possible damage
to the Forward Interlock Safety system,
do not use high-pressure sprays near the
wire harness receptacle or neutral plunger
assembly.
3. If using engine power, move Wheel
Speed Lever to either SLOW or FAST, and
use the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
drive the wheels.
4. If the engine is stopped, move Wheel
Speed Lever to FREEWHEEL, and
manually push tiller.
Loading and Unloading the Tiller
The following provides information on
tiller loading, unloading, and requirements
before loading and unloading the tiller.
Read the following instructions carefully
before attempting to load or unload your
tiller.
Testing the Forward
Interlock Safety System
Figure 4-6: Plug and receptacle of
Forward Interlock Safety System
must be securely connected.
The Forward Interlock Safety System is
designed to shut the tiller engine off
immediately if you lose control and
cannot stop moving FORWARD by
shifting the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
into NEUTRAL. When you release both
Forward Interlock Levers, they send
ground to the ignition system thereby
stopping the engine. Squeezing one or
both levers up against the handlebars
enables the ignition system; therefore,
you must squeeze at least one lever
whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever is engaged in FORWARD.
To test the Forward Interlock System:
Before Loading or Unloading the
Tiller
1. Move tiller outside to level ground.
Remove any obstacles.
• Ramps must be strong enough to
support the combined weight of the tiller
and handlers. They 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.
2. Check that the Forward Interlock wire
harness plug, at the bottom of the handle-
bars (Figure 4-6), is securely connected
to the receptacle on the top, right side of
the transmission.
3. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)
to SLOW position and move Tines/ PTO
Clutch Lever to DISENGAGE.
• Handlers should wear sturdy footwear
that will help to prevent slipping.
IMPORTANT: The interlock system also
prevents the engine from starting if the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is engaged
in FORWARD.
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Section 4: Operation
• Turn the vehicle’s engine off and apply
its parking brake.
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
(Figure 4-2) to DISENGAGE position.
This change is done quickly and without
tools (Figures 4-9 through 4-13).
• Position the loading vehicle so that the
ramp angle is as flat as possible (the
less incline to the ramp, the better).
3. Set the Depth Regulator Lever (Figure
4-2) to the Travel position.
4. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)
to SLOW position and reduce the engine
throttle speed.
Loading the Tiller
1. Use loading ramps that are strong and
wide enough to safely hold the weight of
the tiller and the operator combined—
your tiller weighs between 280 and 325
lbs.
IMPORTANT: Look behind you before
you back down the ramp to ensure that all
is clear. While descending, keep checking
for obstacles behind you.
Low Range
Pulley
Grooves
5. Move and hold the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Lever into REVERSE drive and back down
the ramps (Figure 4-8). Check the wheels
as you move the tiller backward. Ensure
that they move down the center of each
ramp.
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
(Figure 4-2) into DISENGAGE position.
High Range
Pulley
Grooves
3. Set the Depth Regulator lever (Figure
4-2) to the Travel position.
Figure 4-9: Belt range positions.
4. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)
into SLOW position and reduce the
engine throttle speed.
When the tiller is moving in REVERSE, the
wheels are powered by a rubber reverse
disc, not by the belt. Therefore, you have
only two reverse speeds SLOW and FAST,
as set with the Wheel Speed Lever.
5. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever
(Figure 4-2) into FORWARD position and
follow the tiller up the ramps (Figure 4-7).
Check the wheels as you move the tiller
forward. Ensure that they move up the
center of each ramp.
Table 4-1 shows the range of wheel and
tine speeds available when using the two
belt speed ranges and the FAST and
SLOW selections on the Wheel Speed
Lever.
6. Prevent tiller from rolling in vehicle.
Leave Wheel Speed Lever in FAST or
SLOW position, chock wheels with blocks
and tie down the tiller.
Figure 4-8: To go down ramps, use
REVERSE drive.
Table 4-1
Available wheel and tine speeds at 3000 RPM
engine speed.
Changing Speed Belts
Wheel
Speed
Lever
Your tiller has two belt-driven speed
ranges – HIGH RANGE and LOW RANGE
– you pick one or the other by deciding
which set of pulley grooves to move the
forward belt into. By moving the belt
from one speed range into the other, in
combination with the FAST and SLOW
wheel speeds, you obtain a choice of four
different forward wheel speeds and two
different tine speeds.
Belt
Position
Wheel
Speed
Tine
Speed
Low Range
Low Range
High Range
High Range
Slow
Fast
Slow
Fast
.5MPH
1.2MPH
.7MPH
146RPM
146RPM
200RPM
200RPM
1.72MPH
Changing Belt From LOW Range
to HIGH Range
Figure 4-7: To go up ramps, use
1. To avoid personal injury, shut off
engine, let all moving parts come to a
complete stop, then disconnect spark
plug wire from spark plug and move it
away from spark plug before making any
adjustments. Wait for the engine and
muffler to cool down.
WARNING
Unloading the Tiller
To help avoid serious personal injury,
stop the engine, remove the ignition
key, disconnect spark plug wire and
move the wire away from the spark
plug, and let engine and muffler cool
down before changing belt speeds.
IMPORTANT: Never unload the tiller in
FORWARD drive. The tiller could tip
forward and expose you to the tines
(which should be disengaged as
instructed).
2. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
into NEUTRAL.
1. Use loading ramps that are strong and
wide enough to safely hold the weight of
the tiller and the operator combined—
your tiller weighs between 280 and 325
lbs.
Changing the belt from LOW range into
HIGH range (or back again) is a matter of
moving the belt from one set of pulley
grooves to a second set of pulley grooves.
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Section 4: Operation
4. Go to right side of tiller and finish
seating the belt.
WARNING
The HIGH speed belt range position
combined with a FAST wheel speed
setting propels the tiller at the fastest
pace. Reduce the engine throttle speed
when starting out to help avoid personal
injury or property damage if using this
speed combination.
5. Still holding the lever up in REVERSE
position, and working from the left side of
the tiller, move the belt from the lower-
front transmission groove to the lower-
rear transmission groove.
6. Go to the right side of the tiller and
finish seating the belt (Figure 4-13).
3. Kneel on left side of tiller. To create
belt slack, reach over to right side of the
pulleys and push in at the center of the
belt with a finger. At the same time, use
your left hand to work the belt part-way
onto the lower-front transmission pulley
groove (Figure 4-10).
Figure 4-11: Low range to high
range. Shows moving belt from top-
rear groove onto top-front groove.
7. Check both sides of the high range
pulley grooves to verify that the belt is
properly seated.
Changing Belt From HIGH Range to
LOW Range
Figure 4-13: High range to low
range. Shows moving belt from
lower-front onto lower-rear groove.
1. To avoid personal injury, shut off
engine, let all moving parts come to a
complete stop, then disconnect spark
plug wire from spark plug and move wire
away from spark plug before making any
adjustments. Let engine and muffler cool.
7. Check that the belt is fully seated in the
pulley grooves. Check this from both
sides of the tiller.
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever into NEUTRAL.
Choosing Wheel
and Tine Speeds
Figure 4-10: Low range to high range.
Shows moving belt from lower-rear
groove onto lower-front groove.
3. Stand on left side of tiller. Use your
right hand to hold the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever up into REVERSE position.
Use your left hand to move the belt off
top-front engine pulley groove to top-rear
engine pulley groove (Figure 4-12).
Your tiller has four FORWARD wheel/tine
speed combinations for handling a variety
of tilling tasks and gardening jobs. Exper-
iment with the tine depth, engine speed,
and wheel/tine speed and determine the
combination that provides the best
results. Here are some tips:
4. Go to the other side of the tiller to
finish seating the belt onto the pulley
groove.
5. Working from the left side of the tiller,
work the belt as much as possible onto
the top-front engine pulley groove (Figure
4-11).
1. Advance the throttle lever so the engine
has sufficient power.
2. When tilling untilled or hard earth, do
not set the Depth Regulator too deep. The
tiller will buck and the engine will load
down.
6. Finish seating the belt from the right
side of the tiller.
IMPORTANT: Proper belt tension is
important for good performance. See
Section 5, Drive Belt Maintenance for
information on belt maintenance schedule
and procedures.
3. You will know your settings are ideal
when the tines break-up the soil easily,
the engine does not labor, and your
progress is steady and smooth.
NOTE: If extra belt slack is needed to
move the belt, just raise the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever up into
REVERSE. This lowers the engine pulley,
and creates more slack.
See Table 2, Wheel Speed and Belt Range
Selection Guide for recommendations.
Figure 4-12: High range to low
range. Shows moving belt from top-
front groove onto top-rear pulley
groove.
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Section 4: Operation
TABLE 2-4: WHEEL SPEED AND BELT RANGE SELECTION GUIDE
IMPORTANT — For correct wheel speed and belt range choices when using attachments or accessories
other than tines, read the Owner/Operator Manual provided with the attachment or accessory.
SLOW GEAR, LOW BELT RANGE
SLOW GEAR, HIGH BELT RANGE FAST GEAR, LOW BELT RANGE
FAST GEAR, HIGH BELT RANGE
For:
• Tilling in sod.
For:
For:
For:
• Tilling in sod or hard clay.
• Going over seedbed for the
• Preparing seedbeds for
last time before planting crops. planting.
• Tilling in hard clay.
• Tilling under standing corn-
stalks in tough soil conditions.
• Tilling under cover crops.
• Preparing a deep seedbed.
• Tilling in stony soil.
• Tilling under residues and
organic matter.
• Tilling under standing corn-
stalks (slow, steady speed
allows time to shred stalks).
• Tilling under cover crops
(best wheel speed and belt
speed range in most soils).
• Preparing seedbeds (best
speed choice in most soils).
• Tilling in stony ground.
• Covering over seeds in wide
row or plot planting (lift han-
dlebars to avoid going too
deep).
• Hilling and furrowing.
• Making raised beds.
• Covering seeds with less need
to hold up the handlebars.
• Cultivating (tiller travels faster,
rides higher on the soil; allows
engine RPM to be reduced;
handlebars don’t have to be
raised).
• Keeping large areas tilled and
cultivated in the summer.
• Tilling organic matter under.
• Moving tiller quickly.
• Cultivating between raised
beds using the optional
hiller/furrower.
• Cultivating (lift handlebars to
avoid going too deep).
• Mixing in fertilizers, manure.
• Building raised garden beds. • Tilling large areas.
• Mixing in fertilizer.
• Using hiller wings in hard
soil.
• Mixing fertilizer and manure.
• Tilling residues and organics.
• Tilling organic matter in.
• Cultivating between raised
beds with optional
hiller/furrower attachment.
WARNING
Tilling Tips & Techniques
To help avoid personal injury, be aware
that the tiller can unexpectedly bounce
up or jump ahead and propel away from
you if the tines strike hard or frozen
ground, or buried obstacles like large
stones, roots or stumps. Always use
the following precautions to help
maintain control of the tiller:
With each succeeding pass, adjust the
Let the tiller do the work
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.)
• 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 footprints
in the freshly tilled soil) and lightly, but
securely grip the handlebar with just
one hand (Figure 4-4).
• Walk behind and to the side of the
tiller. Use one hand on the handlebars,
relaxing your arm but with a secure
hand grip.
• When cultivating (breaking up the
surface soil around plants to help
• 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.)
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
• Use shallow depth regulator settings.
Till gradually deeper.
• Use slower wheel, tine and engine
speeds.
• Clear the tilling area of all large
stones, roots and other debris.
absorption and faster plant growth.
• Do not put downward pressure on the
handlebars. If needed, apply slight
upward handlebar pressure to keep the
tines from digging too deeply.
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 contacting hard soil or sod at
the end of a row – reduce engine speed
and lift handlebars to raise tines out of
the soil.
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.
• In An Emergency, stop tines and
wheels by moving Wheels/Tines/ PTO
Drive Lever to NEUTRAL. If you cannot
reach the lever or have lost control, Let
Go Of The Handlebars and All Controls.
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Section 4: Operation
Tilling Tips & Techniques
IMPORTANT: When tilling on slopes,
be sure the correct oil level is main-
tained 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!
Avoid making footprints
• 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
When possible, walk on the untilled side
of the unit to avoid making footprints in
the freshly tilled soil (Figure 4-4). Foot-
prints 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.
downhill, overlap the first pass by
about one-half the width of the tiller.
A. Tilling up and down slopes:
HINT: For best results, use the HIGH
belt range and SLOW wheel speed lever
position. See Changing Speed Belts in
this section for more information on
changing to high range.
• 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.
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 (Figure 4-
14). When finished in one direction,
make a second pass at a right angle as
shown in Figure 4-15. Overlap each
pass for best results (in very hard
ground it may take three or four
passes to thoroughly pulverize the
soil).
WARNING
To avoid serious personal injury or
damage to the equipment:
• Do not operate tiller on a slope too
steep for safe operation. Go slowly
on any slope. Make sure you have
good footing.
Figure 4-14
Figure 4-15
• 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
(Figure 4-16).
• Wear footwear that increases
stability and reduces slippage.
• Do not use FAST wheel speed
position when on sloped ground.
• Do not shift the Wheel Speed Lever
when heading up or down a slope. If
lever is accidentally moved to FREE
WHEEL position, the tiller could roll
out of control.
• With planning, you can allow enough
room between rows to cultivate
(Figure 4-17). Leave room for the
hood width, plus enough extra room
for future plant growth.
• To prevent engine damage due to oil
starvation (on slopes,the engine is
inclined and oil moves away from
surfaces that need lubrication), be
sure the correct oil level is main-
tained during all uphill/downhill
tilling operations. Check the level of
the oil in your engine after every one-
half hour of operation.
Tilling on slopes
1
2
If you must garden on sloping ground,
please follow two very important guide-
lines:
3
Figure 4-16
1. Till only on moderate slopes, never
on steep inclines where footing is
difficult (review safety rules in the
“Safety” Section of this Manual).
Figure 4-17
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.
22
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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 procedures to help avoid
tangling and to clear the tines, if
necessary.
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.
Figure 4-18
B. Terrace Gardening:
C. Tilling across slopes
without terracing
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• While power composting, try swaying
the handlebars from side to side (about
6" to 12"). This “fishtailing” action
often clears the tines of debris.
• Study the terrain to make certain the
slope is not too steep for safe tilling.
If possible, make terraced rows or till
vertically.
• 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.
• It may be necessary to remove the
debris by hand (a pocket knife will help
you to cut away the material).
• Move the belt into LOW belt range and
the Wheel Speed Gear Lever to SLOW
position. 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, keep the uphill
wheel in the soft, newly tilled soil. Each
succeeding terraced area is started by
walking below the terrace you are
preparing (Figure 4-19).
• 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 4-18.
• 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 4-19: Make a terrace in just 4
or 5 passes with the tiller.
23
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Section 4: Operation
Tilling Tips & Techniques
POWER COMPOSTING
After tilling under crop residues, add
more organic matter such as leaves,
1. As you move forward into a row of
stalks, aim the tiller so that the stalks go
Power composting 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.
grass clippings and even kitchen scraps. between the left wheel and the transmis-
When tilled into the soil, this organic
matter will decompose and add even
more important nutrients to the soil.
sion case (Figure 4-19). Do not use the
right wheel because damage could occur
to the air cleaner, carburetor or throttle
linkage.
After power composting, you may want
to plant a “green manure” cover crop to
protect the soil during the off-season.
WARNING
Grow a crop of clover, alfalfa,
When power composting, do not keep
the Depth Regulator Lever at a deep
setting if the tiller jumps or bucks.
buckwheat, peas, beans, rye grass,
grain, or kale and then till it into the soil
prior to the planting season.
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.
Wide-Row Planting
The wide-row planting technique is
spreading seeds anywhere from 10
inches to 2 feet wide or more. As a
result, you can grow anywhere from 3 to
4 times (or more) produce in the same
space that is normally set aside for an
area that has narrow, single rows.
Failure to comply could result in loss
of tiller control, property damage or
personal injury.
Figure 4-20: Tilling under corn
stalks.
2. Each new pass should overlap the
previous pass by one-half the width of
the tiller.
3. Till as deeply as possible. Pull the
Depth Regulator all the way UP and
engage the lowest notch for deep tilling.
Use either LOW or HIGH belt range and
SLOW wheel speed gear position.
Wide-row planting automatically shades
the ground which keeps weed growth
down and also holds moisture in the
soil. And of course, harvesting is much
easier – everything is right at hand to be
picked. Preparing wide rows is easy —
after you prepare the seedbed and mark
off the rows with string, hand-broadcast
the seeds as if seeding a lawn (not quite
as much as lawn seed). Cover with soil
and tamp the area firmly with a hoe.
Begin by composting 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.
Let the tilled-in stalks decompose for a
week or so. Then till in the remaining
residue as deep as possible.
Standing cornstalks of reasonable height
can be power composted (Figure 4-20).
Pushing over (but not uprooting) corn-
stalks will often make it easier for your
tiller to chop up the stalks. Keep the
tines clear of excessive tangling by “fish-
tailing” or frequently using reverse.
Make several passes, then return a few
days later to finish off any remaining
stubble.
Tilling Under Corn
Soil Enrichment Idea
After corn is harvested, the stalks should
be tilled into the soil while still green.
Dry plants are more difficult to till under,
and the roots break loose too easily.
Trench Composting — Trench com-
posting is easy with the optional
Hiller-Furrower Attachment (Section
5). Dig a trench, put in all kinds of
organic matter, and cover with soil.
Earthworms and microbes will break it
down quickly.
IMPORTANT: Do not pull the roots out
by hand or cut the stalks before tilling.
Stalks that are firmly anchored by their
roots are much easier for the tines to
chop, cut, and work under.
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Section 4: Operation
Removing And Replacing The Tine Attachment
PTO POWER UNIT
Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever
Your tiller is a self-contained PTO (Power
Take-Off) Power Unit that was shipped
with a tine attachment installed. The tine
attachment can be quickly removed and
replaced with other optional attachments.
The following instructions will familiarize
you with your PTO Power Unit. Please
read these pages carefully.
Wheel
Speed
Lever
Engine
Throttle Lever
Forward
Interlock Levers
Tines/PTO
Clutch
Lever
Depth
Regulator
Lever
Figure 4-21: PTO Power Unit and tine
attachment.
Figure 4-22: PTO Power Unit controls.
CAUTION
TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT:
VERY IMPORTANT
Before operating your PTO Power
Unit for the first time, make sure that
you have:
• Stop the engine, remove the electric
start key, disconnect the spark plug
wire and let the engine and muffler
cool before removing or installing any
attachment.
• Read all the safety instructions in
Section 1 of this Manual and in the
Manual supplied with any attach-
ment.
• Read the controls information and
operating procedures for the tiller
and engine described in Sections 3
and 4 of this Manual and in the
Engine Owner’s Manual.
• Do not place hands, tools, or any
object near or inside the PTO access
area while the engine is running.
Figure 4-23: Block up engine.
6. Place Wheel Speed Lever into FREE
WHEEL (Figure 4-22).
• When removing or replacing the tine
attachment, be careful of the sharp
edges on the tiller hood. Wear thick
gloves for hand protection.
• Read and understand the assembly
instructions, controls information,
and operating procedures for the
attachment as described in the
Attachment Owner’s Manual supplied
with the attachment.
7. Loosen the two swing-out bolts (Figure
4-24) that connect the power unit trans-
mission to the tine attachment and swing
out the bolts (Figure 4-25).
• When the tine attachment is
removed, always prop it up with a
block to prevent the attachment from
falling forward.
HINT: Loosening swing-out bolts can be
difficult. Use an extra-long wrench for
leverage.
The following steps explain how to
remove and replace the tine attachment.
You will need a 3/4" wrench (minimum
12" long for leverage).
3. Place a sturdy support under the
engine to prevent the engine from tipping
forward when the tine attachment is
removed (Figure 4-23).
8. Tip the PTO power unit forward about
one inch with one hand while pulling the
tine attachment back (Figure 4-26). The
guide pin on the power unit will slide out
of the guide hole in the tine attachment
(Figure 4-27).
Removing Tine Attachment
1. Move the tiller to level ground.
4. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
into NEUTRAL (Figure 4-22).
2. Be sure the engine is stopped, the
electric start key is removed, and the spark
plug wire is disconnected and moved away
from spark plug.
5. Place Tines/PTO Clutch Lever in
DISENGAGE (Figure 4-22).
25
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Section 4: Operation
10. The PTO Power Unit is now ready to
install other powered or non-powered
attachments. See the attachment's
Owner’s Manual for installation and
operation instructions specific to that
attachment.
PTO POWER UNIT
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
To help avoid personal injury or
damage to equipment, read the attach-
ment's Owner’s Manual supplied with
each attachment before installing or
operating an attachment. Please read
all control, operation and safety
instructions.
Installing the Tine Attachment
1. Move the two PTO Power Unit swing-
out bolts outward and slide the washers
up against the bolt heads.
2. Remove the support block from under
the engine and slowly roll the power unit
back next to the tine attachment. Place
the support block back under the engine.
The following are operating instructions
specifically for the PTO Power Unit. Read
the separate Owner’s Manual supplied
with each attachment before attempting
to assemble, attach, transport or operate
the attachment. If needed, please contact
us for a replacement manual. See the
back cover for customer support
Figure 4-24: Loosening attachment
swing-bolts.
3. Remove the dust cap (or protective
wrapping) from the dog clutch coupling
on the tine attachment.
4. Carefully align the guide pin on the
PTO Power Unit with the alignment hole
in the tine attachment and bring the two
units together (Figure 4-27).
information.
WARNING
To help avoid personal injury, always
disengage the Tines/ PTO Clutch Lever
before towing any attachment.
Some attachments have a drive shaft or a
hydraulic pump that is powered by the
engine on the PTO Power Unit. These
units are called Stationary Attachments,
since they remain in one location when
operating. Attachments can be towed to a
work site with the PTO Power Unit as
described in Operating Non-Powered
Attachments. Other attachments are
pulled or towed behind the PTO Power
Unit. These attachments are called Non-
Powered Attachments.
Figure 4-25: Moving swing-bolts
outward.
IMPORTANT: Store tine attachment in a
level, upright position to prevent gear oil
from leaking from the dipstick area.
Guide Pin
Mounting Hole
Figure 4-27: Aligning guide pin with
mounting hole.
5. Move the two swing-bolts into the
slots of the tine attachment. Alternately
tighten each bolt until they are tight
enough to make the concave washers flat.
The bolts must be very tight – if you have
a torque wrench, tighten each bolt to
between 70 and 80 ft.-lbs.
Setting Up Stationary Attachments
WARNING
To help avoid personal injury, never
allow people to ride on any PTO Power
Unit or attachment.
IMPORTANT: The swing-bolts must be
kept very tight to prevent damaging wear
to the dog clutch coupling, alignment pin
or the alignment hole. Check bolt
tightness every 2-1/2 operating hours.
Figure 4-26: Pulling attachment
away from power unit.
1. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to
DISENGAGE.
9. To keep the tine attachment dog clutch
coupling clean, cover with the dust cap
(on some attachments) or plastic wrap.
2. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-22)
to FREEWHEEL, then block all wheels
(Figure 4-29) to prevent the equipment
from rolling.
6. Remove the engine support before
moving the tiller in a forward direction.
26
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Section 4: Operation
3. Verify that the Forward Interlock Wire
Harness plug at the base of the handle-
bars (A, Figure 4-28) is connected to the
Forward Interlock Wire Harness recepta-
cle (B) on the top right side of the
transmission.
2. To apply power to PTO-driven attach-
ments, move Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever
(Figure 4-22) down to FORWARD position
(do not use REVERSE with stationary
attachments).
B
A
3. To stop the PTO Power Unit, tap the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward
into NEUTRAL position.
Starting The Engine
IMPORTANT: Refer to Cold Weather
Operation instructions, in this section,
before operating in temperatures below
C
Operating Non-Powered Attachments
(or to Tow Stationary Attachments)
1. To move forward, squeeze and hold
one Forward Interlock Lever (Figure 4-30)
up against the handlebars, and move the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever down to
FORWARD.
o
40 F.
Figure 4-28: Forward Interlock Wiring
A - PTO Power Unit Interlock Harness
B - Forward Interlock Receptacle
C - Attachment Interlock Wire
1. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever into NEUTRAL. To find NEUTRAL
(be sure engine is off), push lever down
and engage it in FORWARD then tap the
lever upward to automatically move into
NEUTRAL .
3. On the PTO Power Unit, unplug the
Forward Interlock Wire Harness that leads
from the base of the handlebars (A, Figure
4-28) to the receptacle (B) located on the
top, right side of the transmission cover.
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into
DISENGAGE position.
4. On the Stationary Attachment, locate
the interlock wire (C, Figure 4-28) and
clean contacts on plug and receptacle (B).
This connection enables you to operate
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in
FORWARD without having to squeeze a
Forward Interlock Lever.
WARNING
To avoid injury,do not run the engine in
an enclosed or poorly vented area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
Figure 4-30: Moving tiller forward:
squeeze one Forward Interlock Lever
and then move Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever down to FORWARD.
5. Connect the plug from the Stationary
Attachment (C, Figure 4-28) to the recep-
tacle on the PTO Power Unit (B). The
connection must be tight.
3. Start Engine. See Starting and
Stopping the Engine, in the beginning of
this section, for detailed starting informa-
tion. Also see the Engine Owner's Manual.
Setting Up Non-Powered Attach-
ments
1. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever
4. For non-powered attachments only test
the Forward Interlock Safety System. See
Testing the Forward Interlock Safety
2. To stop forward motion, tap
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward
into NEUTRAL, then release the Forward
Interlock Levers.
System, in this section, for a procedure.
(Figure 4-22) to DISENGAGE.
3. To stop forward motion in an
emergency, release all PTO Power Unit
controls (stops engine).
Operating Stationary Attachments
1. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever (Figure
4-22) into ENGAGE.
2. Move the Wheel Speed Lever (Figure
4-22) to either SLOW or FAST position
To do this, roll the PTO Power Unit while
shifting lever until wheels engage.
4. To move in reverse, reduce the engine
speed then shift the Wheel Speed Lever
into SLOW. Move and hold the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever all the way
up. Ensure that the area behind you is
clear of all obstacles, before moving the
lever into REVERSE.
5. To stop moving in REVERSE, release
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever.
Stopping the Engine
Move the Engine Throttle Lever to STOP.
Turn keyswitch to OFF on electric start
models.
Figure 4-29: Block wheels on PTO Power Unit and stationary
attachment.
27
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Section
5
Maintenance
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
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.
Before Every Every
Every
30
Hours
As
PROCEDURE
Each
10
25
Noted
Use Hours Hours
Check engine oil level
•
Every 5
operating hrs.
Clean engine cooling system
•
•
Test operation of Forward Interlock
Section 4
Safety System
Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury or
property damage.
Forward Interlock Safety System –
check wire condition,connections
Check electrical connections
•
•
Recharge battery
Before/after
long storage
Check drive belt tension
Check nuts and bolts
•
•
After initial
2 hours
After initial
2 hours
Clean tiller tine shaft
Lubricate tiller
Change engine oil*
•
•
•
NOTE: All references to left, right, front
and rear of the machine are determined by
standing behind the handlebars and facing
the direction of forward travel.
More often
in dusty or
dirty areas
Clean foam element air filter
Check paper element air filter
•
•
More often
in dusty or
dirty areas
Check for oil leaks
•
After initial
2 hours
Check gear oil level in
both transmissions
•
After initial
2 hours
Check bolo tines for wear
Check reverse disc for wear
Check air pressure in tires
•
•
•
* During engine break-in period, change engine oil after first 2 hours of operation.
28
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
4. Check the five bolts securing the tiller
housing cover to the left side of the trans- go into the transmission housing a
mission (B in Figure 5-3). Gear oil can
leak from a loose housing cover. To
reach the bolts, remove the left side tine
holder. See Bolo Tine Maintenance in this
Section for tine holder removal directions.
IMPORTANT: Give screws or bolts that
Tighten Bolts and Nuts
Check for loose or missing hardware
every ten (10) operating hours. Failure to
tighten or replace fasteners can cause
poor performance, equipment damage or
oil leakage. See your Parts Catalog for
complete fastener descriptions.
coating of non-hardening gasket sealant
to prevent gear oil from leaking.
Tiller Lubrication
Proper lubrication of the tiller’s mechani-
cal parts is an essential part of good
maintenance. Lubrication should be done
after every ten (10) hours of operation.
5. Check both swing-bolts (C, Figure 5-3)
that connect the power unit transmission
to the tine attachment. Both bolts should
be checked every 2-1/2 hours of
operation. If loose, wear can occur on the
locating pin on the power unit, and cause
enlargement of the locating hole in the
tine attachment. Using a torque wrench,
tighten these bolts to 70-to-80 ft.-lbs.
Most hardware on your tiller is visible.
Pay particular attention to hardware
shown in Figures 5-1, 5-2, 5-3 and 5-3A.
Use ordinary motor oil (#30 weight or
lighter) where oil is specified. Use a
quality grease with a metal lubricant
where grease is recommended (regular
grease is acceptable). Do not over
lubricate. If there is a build-up of dirt,
remove the build-up and re-apply oil or
grease.
1. Check the transmission pulley
mounting bolt (Figure 5-1). If the washer
behind the bolt head is loose, the bolt
needs tightening. To do this, first insert a
punch or thick screwdriver into the hole
next to the bolt and wedge the tool
against the side of the motor mount
casting. This immobilizes the pulley while
you tighten the bolt.
6. Check the locknut that fastens the
shifting linkage to the eccentric shifting
lever (D, Figure 5-3). Do not tighten the
locknut against the eccentric lever. It
should be very close to, but not touching
the lever.
2. Check jam nut on left side of neutral
plunger assembly (Figure 5-2). If loose,
immobilize bolt head with one wrench and
use another wrench to tighten the nut.
7. Check the four bolts and nuts securing
left and right tine holders to the tine shaft
(Figure 5-3A).
3. Check the three rear bearing cap
screws under the depth regulator
mounting bracket (A, Figure 5-3). If any
is loose, it can cause an oil leak or drive
shaft end play.
Figure 5-3A: Tine holder hardware
must be tight.
A
B
Figure 5-1: Check bolt on transmission pulley.
C
D
Figure 5-3: Gently tilt tiller forward to check fasteners.
29
Figure 5-2: Check jam nut on plunger assembly.
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
IMPORTANT: Do not allow oil or grease 7. Grease left- and right-side engine
to contact the pulleys, drive belt or mounting bars at the top, the middle, and
reverse disc. This can cause the belt or bottom (G, Figure 5-4).
If tilling during very hot weather, the gear
oil may heat up and expand inside the
transmissions. To allow for this oil
expansion, both the power unit transmis-
sion and the tine attachment transmis-
sions have oil relief vents (Figure 5-6).
disc to slip on the pulleys.
8. Grease the zerk grease fitting located
Lubricate the numbered areas in Figures
5-4 and 5-5, as follows:
on the pivot point at the end of the Wheel
Speed Lever (H, Figure 5-4). If Wheel
Speed Lever has a grease fitting on pivot
assembly, apply 2-to-3 strokes of multi-
purpose grease at beginning and end of
tilling season.
1. Oil the wheel shaft between the wheel
hubs and the transmission housing
(A, Figure 5-4).
2. Oil all pivoting and connecting points
on the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever and
the Wheel Speed Lever (B, Figure 5-4).
9. Keep the PTO access area well-greased
(I, Figure 5-5). If the Tines/PTO Clutch
Lever becomes hard to move, squirt some
oil into its access hole, and work it back
and forth to disperse the oil.
3. Grease the face of the belt adjustment
block (C, Figure 5-4).
Figure 5-6: Oil relief vent locations.
4. Oil the Depth Regulator Lever,
including the spring in the mounting
bracket (D, Figure 5-4).
Transmission Gear
Oil Maintenance
Checking for Oil Leaks
The vents allow small amounts of oil to
seep out.
5. Oil the full length of the throttle cable
If a serious leak is discovered, please
contact your authorized dealer or the
Factory Technical Service Department for
service advice.
At 25-hour operation intervals, check the
tiller for oil leaks. Inspect for oil accumu-
lations on the tiller or the floor where it’s
stored.
casing (E, Figure 5-4).
6. Oil threads on Handlebar Height Adjust-
ment Lever (F, Figure 5-4).
A small amount of oil seepage or wetness Checking Gear Oil Levels
around a shaft opening or
Every 30 hours of operation, check the
cover is no cause for
alarm. But a heavy con-
centration of oil is more
serious. You should
tighten all bolts immedi-
ately, and replace any
worn seals or gaskets.
gear oil level in both the power unit trans-
mission and the tine attachment transmis-
sion. Operating them while low on gear
oil (even briefly) can cause serious
damage to internal components.
F
B
E
C
D
Preparation
G
H
It may be impossible to
determine how much oil
has been lost, so check the
oil levels in the PTO trans-
mission and the tine
attachment before using
the tiller again. Add any
necessary gear oil.
1. The transmissions must be cool,
since hot gear oil expands and gives a
false reading.
B
A
Figure 5-4: Tiller lubrication points
(wheel removed for clarity).
2. The power unit transmission and the
tine attachment transmission must be
connected when checking (or adding)
gear oil.
Serious damage to the
transmission components
can result from operation
when gear oil levels are
low.
Checking the Power Unit Oil Level
1. Move the tiller to level ground. Move
the Depth Regulator up so the tines rest
on the ground.
I
2. Use a 3/8" wrench to remove the oil
level check plug on the left side of the
transmission housing (Figure 5-7).
Figure 5-5: Use grease liberally in PTO access area.
30
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
For Dipsticks With ‘Check Cold’ Marking 4. Cold reading (preferred method):
(Two hours has passed since the tiller
was used.) Place a 2" x 4" board (on
edge) under the drag bar– raising the tiller
and drag bar about 3-1/2" above ground.
Hot reading: (Tiller was operated for
more than 30 minutes within the past
hour.) Do not use the wood prop to
elevate the tiller.
(Cold means 2 hours has passed since
the tiller was used.)
1. Move the tiller to level ground.
2. Pull the Depth Regulator Lever back,
then push it down all the way (to engage
its top notch).
3. Place a sturdy support under the
engine to prevent the tiller from tilting too
far.
5. Follow Steps 4, 5 and 6 given for the
other dipstick type.
Figure 5-7: Remove oil level check
plug. Gear oil should seep out if
the level is sufficient.
6. Remove dipstick and check level. It
should be within or above the “Cold”
range marking if taking a cold reading. If
taking a hot reading, the level should be
within or slightly above the “Hot” range.
4. Now slide three pieces of 2" x 4"
lumber underneath the drag bar– raising
the drag bar about 4-1/2" above ground.
This elevation allows an accurate “cold”
gear oil reading .
3. If the oil level is correct, oil will seep
out of the check hole (allow extra time in
cold weather). If it does, the level is fine
and you should replace the check plug. If
no oil seeps out, see Adding or Changing
Gear Oil.
7. If the level is incorrect, see Adding or
Changing Gear Oil.
5. Wait two hours with tiller elevated
(allow more time if temperature is below
o
40 F).
Adding or Changing Gear Oil
Checking the Tine
Attachment Oil Level
6. Loosen and remove transmission
dipstick (Fig. 5-8). Wipe it clean with a
rag.
For partial fill-ups (just a few ounces or
less), use SAE 140, SAE 85W-140, or SAE
80W-90 weight gear oil with an API rating
of GL-4 or GL-5. For full replacement,
use SAE 140 or SAE 85W-140 gear oil
with an API rating of GL-4 only. (At the
factory, SAE 85W-140 weight gear oil is
used.)
IMPORTANT: Two different gear oil
checking procedures for the tine attach-
ment transmission are described next.
Use the first procedure if the dipstick in
your tine attachment has only a ‘Check
Cold’ marking. Use the second procedure
if the dipstick has both cold and hot
markings at the end. First remove the
dipstick from the tine attachment trans-
mission (Figure 5-8) to see which type
dipstick you have. Then replace the
dipstick with markings on dipstick facing
to rear.
7. Hold dipstick so its markings face to
rear of tiller. Lower it straight down into
the sump hole to touch the drive shaft
inside (Fig. 5-8). Don’t force or try to
thread it back in; an incorrect reading will
result.
IMPORTANT: Do not use automatic
transmission fluid or engine oil. They are
too light in weight and will result in trans-
mission damage.
8. Remove dipstick and check oil level. It
should be anywhere within the cross-
hatched area or even slightly above the
Max marking. If correct, replace dipstick
and remove the boards used as props.
The gear oil does not need to be changed.
Do so only if you know, or suspect, it is
contaminated with dirt, sand or other
foreign particles.
9. If oil level was low, gear oil must be
added before using the tiller. See Adding
or Changing Gear Oil next.
Gear oil is available at authorized dealers
and most service stations, power
equipment centers, or farm/heavy
equipment outlets.
For Dipsticks With Hot/Cold Markings
➧
1. Move the tiller to level ground.
2. Pull the Depth Regulator Lever back,
then push it down all the way (to engage
its top notch).
Capacities: Power unit transmission
holds approximately 60 ozs.; Tine Attach-
ment transmission holds approximately
12-1/2" ozs.
3. Place a sturdy support under the
engine to prevent the tiller from tilting too
far.
Figure 5-8: Checking gear oil level;
markings on dipstick (tine attach-
ment transmission) must face rear.
31
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Adding Gear Oil to the
PTO Power Unit Transmission
3. Slowly add gear oil in the dipstick hole.
Add 1/2-ounce at a time to avoid overfill-
ing. It takes about 12-1/2 ounces.
A
1. Do steps 1 and 2 of Checking the
Power Unit Oil Level on page 32.
4. Take dipstick readings frequently. Stop
when oil reaches “Cold” range marking on
dipstick. Replace dipstick securely.
2. Using a 3/4" wrench (or socket),
remove the bolt securing the handlebar
base to the top of the transmission (prop
the handlebars first to prevent them from
falling).
Draining and Filling the Tine
Attachment Transmission
1. The tine attachment transmission is
not equipped with an oil drain plug. To
drain just a small amount of gear oil,
remove the dipstick and tilt the attach-
ment forward (first uncoupling it from the
Power Unit).
Then, unplug the Forward Interlock wire
harness receptacle at the bottom of the
handlebars. Set the handlebar base and
bolt aside on a clean surface. The bolt
hole in the top of the transmission is the
gear oil fill hole (A, Figure 5-9).
B
2. For complete drainage, remove the left-
side tine assembly (refer to Bolo Tine
Maintenance for instructions), then
remove just one of the lower screws from
the tiller housing cover (Figure 5-10). To
speed drainage, remove the tine attach-
ment dipstick to vent transmission.
Figure 5-9: Gear oil fill hole (A) and
gear oil drain location (B).
3. Slowly pour gear oil through a clean
funnel into the transmission. Stop when
gear oil begins to flow from the oil level
check hole on the left side of the trans-
mission (B, Figure 5-7).
3. Using the 3/8" wrench, remove the
drain plug (B, Figure 5-9). The gear oil
will drain quite slowly since it is thick.
After about two quarts have drained, tilt
the tiller forward so any oil at the rear of
the transmission will drain out.
4. Reinstall the oil level check plug.
Tighten it securely.
5. Reinstall the handlebars using the
mounting bolt previously removed. Align
the handlebars so they point straight
backwards, not at an angle. Then tighten
the mounting bolt securely.
➧
4. Clean the drain plug threads, put non-
hardening gasket sealant on the threads,
and reinstall plug.
5. Refill the transmission with the correct
amount of gear oil before operating the
tiller again. When oil seeps from the oil
level check hole, the right amount of gear
oil has been added. Replace all plugs.
6. Reconnect the Forward Interlock wire
harness to the receptacle. Be certain it’s
secure.
Figure 5-10: Remove housing cover
screw to drain tine attachment
transmission gear oil.
7. Test operation of the Forward Interlock
Safety System. See Section 4 for a
procedure.
Adding Gear Oil to the Tine
Attachment Transmission
1. Select the right Depth Regulator Lever
setting:
Draining and Filling the
PTO Power Unit Transmission
NOTE: If you find a plastic washer on the
cover screw you remove, discard the
washer. There is no need to install a
replacement washer.
a. If filling an empty transmission, raise
the Depth Regulator Lever so tines
are on the ground.
1. Place a shallow pan under the trans-
mission gear oil drain plug (B, Figure
5-9).
3. Once all gear oil has drained, reinstall
the housing cover screw securely (first
coat its threads with non-hardening
gasket sealant).
b. If topping off the gear oil, move Depth
Regulator Lever down to engage its
top notch.
2. Remove the oil level check plug (Figure
5-7) with a 3/8" wrench. This vents the
transmission for faster oil draining.
2. Remove dipstick from tine attachment
(Figure 5-8).
4. Be certain to refill the transmission
with the correct amount of gear oil before
operating the tiller again.
32
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
3. The belt tension is correct if the front
of the clutch roller is 1/4"-to-5/16" away
from the face of the upright bracket that
holds the adjustment block in place
4. If the belt tension is correct, move the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever back to
NEUTRAL.
Drive Belt Maintenance
Measuring and Adjusting
Drive Belt Tension
On a new tiller (or if a new belt is
(Figure 5-12). To measure this distance:
installed), the belt tension will probably
need to be adjusted after the first two (2)
hours of operation. Thereafter, check belt
tension every ten (10) operating hours.
a. Without moving the clutch roller, try
inserting the 1/4"-thick, slotted end
of the belt adjustment tool in
between the roller and the upright
bracket. (The flat edge of the tool
must be facing the roller.) Refer to
Figure 5-13.
Maintaining the right tension is important
to good tiller performance and long belt
life. If too loose, the belt will slip on the
pulleys, and be unable to deliver full
power to the wheels and tines. A loose
belt will also wear prematurely.
b. If only the slotted portion of the tool
will fit, the belt tension is correct.
c. If the slotted part of the tool will not
While checking belt tension, also inspect
the belt for cuts, cracks, deterioration,
etc. Don’t continue using a belt that isn’t
in good shape. You’re sacrificing tiller
performance by doing so.
fit in, the belt is too loose.
d. If the full thickness (5/16") of the
tool easily fits in, the belt is too
tight.
Tips on keeping the drive belt in top
condition include:
Figure 5-13: Insert slotted end of
belt adjustment tool between roller
and bracket, with the flat side of the
slotted end facing the roller.
5/16"
1/4"
• Always put the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever in NEUTRAL when the tiller is not in
use.
How to Adjust Belt Tension
• Keep tension adjusted correctly.
Belt Adjustment Tool
1. As described in the following steps,
drive belt tension is adjusted by moving
the adjustment block up or down.
Moving it down will tighten the belt;
moving it up loosens the belt.
• Don’t “speed shift” when moving the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever between
FORWARD and REVERSE.
Figure 5-11: Use this belt adjust-
ment tool to measure and adjust
drive belt tension.
How to Measure Belt Tension
1. Before taking a measurement, be sure
the linkages and pivot points on the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever are clean
and lubricated. If there is any binding,
you won’t get true measurements. Also,
you’ll need the belt adjustment tool you
received with your new tiller (Figure
5-11).
HINT: The distance the block moves
approximately equals the distance the
roller moves.
In most cases, the clutch roller will not
have been very far out of position, so the
adjustment block will only need to be
moved slightly (up or down).
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever to NEUTRAL position. The clutch
roller will come to rest anywhere on the
face of the belt adjustment block,
depending upon drive belt length and
current belt tension adjustment.
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever fully down to the FORWARD
position. The clutch roller at the bottom
of the lever should be positioned under-
neath the belt adjustment block (Figure
5-12). Don’t let the clutch roller move
during the next few steps. If it moves,
you’ll get a false belt tension reading.
Figure 5-12: Shift into FORWARD
and measure distance between
roller and upright bracket using the
belt adjustment tool.
33
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
3. Insert the belt adjustment tool through
the hole in the side of the adjustment
block, spacing the ends of the tool equally
on both sides (Figure 5-14). Rotate the
tool so the slotted end faces down.
Figure 5-16: Hold Drive Lever while
loosening bolt. Push lever down to
tighten belt; pull up to loosen belt.
Figure 5-17: First move belt off the
lower pulley.
6. Push the drive lever down if the belt
needs tightening. Pull the lever up if the
belt needs to be loosened. Hold the drive
lever in place and tighten the bolt in the
adjustment block firmly.
Figure 5-14: With Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever in NEUTRAL, insert tool
through hole in adjustment block.
4. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
7. Let go of the drive lever and remove
Lever in FORWARD position. The arms of the belt adjustment tool from the hole in
the clutch control yoke will be resting on
the belt adjustment tool and the clutch
roller should be engaged slightly beneath
the adjustment block (Figure 5-15).
the adjustment block.
8. Check the tension on the belt by
following the previous instructions “How
to Measure Belt Tension.”
Push Belt UP
Figure 5-18: Push belt upward to
create slack.
NOTE: If the adjustment block is all the
way down and the measurement between
the clutch roller and the bracket is less
than 1/4", then a new drive belt is needed.
5. Lift the top half of the belt up and over
the upper pulley and the rubber reverse
disc, moving it in front of the reverse disc
(refer to Figure 5-19).
Replacing the Drive Belt
6. Push the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever down into the FORWARD position.
This increases the distance between the
upper and lower pulleys. Next, lift and
pull the entire belt out between the pulleys
(Figure 5-20).
Removing the Belt
1. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
NEUTRAL position.
Figure 5-15: With Drive Lever in
FORWARD position, clutch roller
should be engaged slightly beneath
the adjustment block.
2. While kneeling on the right side of the
tiller, create slack in the belt by reaching
over to the left side of the pulleys and
pushing in on the center of the belt with
your finger.
Replacing the Drive Belt
1. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in
FORWARD position.
5. Use one hand to hold the drive lever in
FORWARD while using a 9/16" wrench to
loosen (don’t remove) the bolt at the back
of the belt adjustment block (Figure 5-16).
The adjustment block should be free to
move either up or down.
3. Use your right hand to move the belt
down and away from the lower pulley, in
the direction of the engine (Figure 5-17).
2. Squeeze the belt in the middle and
insert one end in between the pulleys
(Figure 5-20).
4. Push the belt upward to create slack in
the belt (Figure 5-18).
34
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Reverse Disc Inspection
➦
The reverse disc is made of steel with a
special, long-lasting rubber compound
bonded to the disc rim. Since this is a
wearing part, it should be inspected after
every 30 operating hours.
1. Measure the width of the outside edge
of the disc as shown in Figure 5-22.
Replace the disc before the rubber edge
wears to a thickness of 1/8" or less.
Failure to do so could cause the steel
underneath the rubber to damage the
transmission pulley.
➦
Figure 5-21: Seat belt in upper
pulley, then in lower pulley (High
Range position shown).
Figure 5-19: Move top half of belt
over pulley and reverse disc.
7. Move the bottom half of the belt into
the HIGH Range groove of the lower
pulley (groove closest to engine— Figure
5-21). If extra slack is needed, hold up
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever while
moving the belt. Verify the belt is seated
properly on the pulleys.
8. To move the belt to the LOW Range
position, see Changing Belt Speeds in
Section 4.
9. After installing the belt, check and
adjust for correct belt tension as
explained previously.
Figure 5-20: Shift into FORWARD
and remove the belt.
Figure 5-22: Measure the edge of
the reverse disc for wear.
3. Push belt forward then down until it is
looped over the lower pulley (Figure
5-18). Do not yet seat it in either of the
lower pulley’s grooves.
2. Look for big cracks or missing chunks
of rubber from the disc. If so damaged,
the disc should be replaced immediately.
Reverse Drive
System Maintenance
These instructions explain how to inspect,
replace or adjust the various reverse drive
components.
IMPORTANT: Extend the life of the
reverse disc by always pausing in
NEUTRAL before shifting between
FORWARD and REVERSE. Also – the
reverse disc is not suited for continuous
or sustained reverse operation. Use
reverse sparingly.
HINT: A blunt object, like a ruler, can
help you push the belt downward if
needed.
But first, here’s how the reverse drive
system works: When you raise the
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever up in
REVERSE position, this lowers the rub-
berized reverse disc (it’s attached to the
engine drive pulley) until this rotating disc
contacts the transmission drive pulley.
The friction between the rotating reverse
disc and the transmission pulley causes
the transmission drive shaft to be
powered in a counterclockwise direction
(as viewed from the operator’s position
behind handlebars). The drive shaft then
turns the wheels and tine shafts in a
reverse direction.
4. Move the top half of the belt up and
over the rubber reverse disc, but do not
seat it in either of the grooves in the top
pulley.
5. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever in NEUTRAL.
6. Move the top half of the belt into the
HIGH Range groove (groove closest to
the engine) on the top pulley (Figure
5-21).
35
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
and engine mount move down to press
on the reverse adjustment bolt (Figure 5-
24). This action compresses the reverse
spring and plunger assembly, requiring
you to hold the lever up in REVERSE.
When you release the lever, the spring
automatically pushes the lever back into
NEUTRAL position.
ment bolt should be adjusted upward (see
instructions that follow). Moving adjust-
ment bolt upward will also solve problem
of a tiller that goes into REVERSE on its
own.
Replacing the Reverse Disc
Follow these steps to replace the reverse
disc. (If your tiller has a Bumper Attach-
ment mounted, it must be removed first.)
Removing the Reverse Disc
1. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in
NEUTRAL position.
Reverse
Disc
The spring and plunger assembly is
designed to prevent the reverse disc from
making contact with the transmission
pulley until you shift into REVERSE.
When the lever is in NEUTRAL, the switch
body on the bottom of the engine mount
tab should be resting squarely on top of
the reverse adjustment bolt (Figure 5-24).
The reverse adjustment bolt can be
adjusted up or down to correct a number
of reverse drive operating problems, as
explained next.
2. Wedge a 5/16"-thick board between top
of engine pulley (avoid contacting reverse
disc) and cast iron housing next to it.
This immobilizes pulley.
3. Use a 9/16" wrench to loosen the
mounting bolt shown in Figure 5-23.
Remember to immobilize the pulley with
the wood wedge while loosening the bolt.
If necessary, pry the disc from the pulley
with the tip of a screwdriver. Back the
bolt out as far as possible. Then angle
the disc a little to remove it. Bring the
bolt and lockwasher along with the disc.
Figure 5-25: Checking Reverse
Disc in NEUTRAL.
3. Use your left hand to hold
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever up in
REVERSE, while briefly pulling out engine
start rope. The reverse disc should turn
lower pulley (see Figure 5-26). If not, or
it requires a lot of pressure to hold lever
up in REVERSE, then reverse adjustment
bolt must be adjusted downward. When
correctly adjusted, the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever should pop out of reverse
when the lever is released, but not require
exceptional effort to hold it up in reverse
position.
OIL
➧
Switch Body
➧
Adjustment
Bolt
➧
Spring &
Plunger
Both Pulleys
Should Turn
Figure 5-24: Spring and plunger
assembly.
Figure 5-23: Removing Reverse Disc.
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Disc
1. Verify that linkages for
Installing a New Reverse Disc
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever are lubri-
cated with oil and engine mount bars and
belt adjustment block are lubricated with
grease. (See Tiller Lubrication in this
section.)
1. Do steps 1-through-3, described previ-
ously, in reverse.
2. Tighten mounting bolt securely, and
check for correct operation — see
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Drive
System.
Figure 5-26: Checking Reverse Disc
in REVERSE.
2. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in
NEUTRAL. Briefly pull out engine recoil
start rope while watching reverse disc.
The disc should turn, but lower pulley
should not (Figure 5-25). If reverse disc
turns lower pulley, or if it is located closer
than 3/16" to the pulley, reverse adjust-
4. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
to REVERSE and then let it go. The lever
should return to NEUTRAL. If not, the
reverse adjustment bolt will have to be
adjusted upward.
Checking and Adjusting
Reverse the Drive System
When the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
is moved up into REVERSE, the engine
36
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Adjusting Reverse Drive:
7. Place a chalk or pencil mark on the top
edge of the plunger retaining bolt. Now,
while watching the mark, loosen the bolt
3/4-turn (Figure 5-29). Do not exceed a
3/4 turn (this would disengage the bolt
from the locking groove in the side of the
plunger).
Bolo Tine Maintenance
Checking Tines for Wear
1. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in
FORWARD position.
Inspect the tines for wear or damage after
every 30 operating hours. The rate of
wear depends upon hours of use and soil
conditions. With use, the tines get
shorter, narrower and more pointed
(Figure 5-30). If badly worn, they lose the
ability to till deeply.
2. On left side of tiller, put a 1/2" wrench
on the plunger retaining bolt and another
1/2" wrench on the jam nut next to it
(Figure 5-27). While holding the bolt
steady, loosen the jam nut (counterclock-
wise) until it touches the bolt head.
Adjustment
Bolt
Worn
New
Jam Nut
Jam Nut
Figure 5-28: Loosen jam nut before
turning reverse adjustment bolt.
Retaining Bolt
Figure 5-30: Check for wear
every 30 operating hours.
8. Hold the plunger retaining bolt steady
with a wrench while tightening the jam
nut against the side of the plunger housing
(Figure 5-27).
Worn tines leave an ever-increasing gap
in the middle of a tilled row. The normal
gap is 3" between the tine tips – replace
the tines when the gap widens to 5"
(Figure 5-31).
Figure 5-27: Hold bolt steady while
loosening or tightening jam nut.
3. Turn the bolt in until it tightens against
the plunger inside the spring. The bolt
must be tight to prevent plunger from
turning – but be careful not to overtighten
and break the bolt.
4. Place a 7/8" wrench on the head of the
reverse adjustment bolt and a 9/16"
wrench on the jam nut below it (Figure 5-
28). Hold the bolt steady while loosening
the jam nut three or four turns.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
5. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever to NEUTRAL. The switch body on
the bottom of the engine mount tab
(Figure 5-24) should be resting squarely
on top of the reverse adjustment bolt, and
the reverse disc should be at least 3/16"
away from the transmission drive pulley.
If the reverse disc is any closer than this,
raise the reverse adjustment bolt (turn it
counterclockwise).
Figure 5-29: Loosen plunger
retaining bolt about 3/4-turn, then
tighten jam nut against plunger
housing.
Figure 5-31: Replace tines when gap
between inner tines is 5" or more
(normal gap is 3").
9. Check the action of the reverse disc as
explained previously.
IMPORTANT: If the above adjustments
have not corrected an improperly working
reverse drive, contact an authorized
dealer or Factory Technical Service
Department for assistance.
Tines can be replaced individually or as a
complete set. See replacement instruc-
tions that follow.
6. Check that reverse disc is at least 3/16"
away from transmission drive pulley.
Then hold reverse adjustment bolt steady
with one wrench while tightening jam nut
with a second wrench (Figure 5-28).
37
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
3. Remove the two bolts and nuts
securing each holder (Figure 5-33).
Single Tine Replacement
Removing and Replacing A Tine
Holder Assembly
WARNING
The tines or tine hood edges may be
sharp. Wear thick gloves to protect
your hands from cuts or scrapes.
4. Use a soft mallet to drive the holder
off the tine shaft. (Use a heavy hammer
and block of wood to knock off the immo-
bilized tine holder.)
WARNING
• The tines or tine hood edges may be
sharp. Wear thick gloves to protect
your hands.
5. When the holder is off, clean all dirt
and debris from the shaft and the holder.
Apply fresh grease to the tine shaft.
1. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever to NEUTRAL, the Wheel Speed
Lever to either FAST or SLOW position,
and the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to
ENGAGE.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your
eyes. When loosening hardware, do
not hit a wrench with a metal tool– this
could shatter the tool or wrench,
sending metal particles into your eyes.
Replacing Tines Holder Assembly
1. Replace the holder so the sharp tine
edges face forward (toward front of tiller).
Tap tine holder back on the tine shaft.
2. Gently tilt the tiller forward until the
engine rests on the ground.
The 16 Bolo Tines are mounted eight per
side on left-side and right-side tine
holders. Here’s how to replace the tines
and holders as assemblies.
2. Grease the threads on the mounting
bolt(s). Install and tighten the bolt(s)
securely.
3. Raise the hood flap at the back of the
tiller and tie it up with string.
4. Before removing a tine, note in which
direction the bent tip points. The new tine
must be installed in the same direction.
Removing Tine Holder Assembly
1. Follow steps 1-through-3 in Single
Tine Replacement above.
5. Use two 9/16" wrenches to remove the
two bolts and nuts securing the tine to the
tine holder plate (Figure 5-32). Use pene-
trating oil on the hardware if it is rusted or
hard to remove.
2. Identify the tine holders as left-side
and right-side holders – they must be
replaced on the same side from which
they were removed. Use a piece of chalk
or a grease pencil to mark them L and R.
Tine Shaft
Figure 5-32: Removing a single tine
requires taking off two bolts and
two nuts.
6. Mount the new tine exactly the way the
old tine was positioned. (The sharp edge
of the tine, which enters the soil first, must
face forward when above the tine shaft.)
Replace the bolts and nuts and tighten
them securely.
Right-Side
Tine Holder
Left-Side
Tine Holder
Figure 5-33: Tine Holders.
38
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
It is recommended that you change the oil
Tine Shaft Maintenance
Spark Plug Maintenance
every ten (10) operating hours and even
sooner when operating in extremely dirty
or dusty conditions. Refer to the separate
Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed
service instructions.
After every 10 operating hours, remove
the left- and right-side Bolo Tine holders
and clear away dirt and debris that have
accumulated on the tine shaft or inside
the tine holders. Please follow this main-
tenance recommendation, as debris can
cause premature wear to the tine shaft
and its oil seals. Refer to the previous
tine holder removal instructions. After
cleaning away any debris and removing
old grease from the tine shaft, apply fresh
grease to the tine shaft.
The spark plug must be in good condition
for proper engine operation. Remove and
inspect the plug every 50 operating hours
or annually, whichever occurs first.
The correct electrode gap is .030". Check
the gap with a feeler gauge. Do not use a
spark plug if the porcelain is cracked, the
electrodes are pitted or burned, or if other
visible damage is present.
Air Cleaner Maintenance
The engine is equipped with a dual
element air cleaner that filters the air
twice before it enters the carburetor to
mix with the fuel.
NOTE: Do not wire brush or sandblast the
spark plug to clean it – loose particles
can enter the engine, causing damage!
The engine air cleaner filters dirt and dust
out of the air before it enters the carbure-
tor. Operating the engine with a dirty,
clogged air filter can cause poor perfor-
mance and damage to the engine. Never
operate the engine without the air cleaner
installed. Inspect and service the air
cleaner more often if operating in very
dusty or dirty conditions.
Tire and Wheel Maintenance
Check tire air pressure every 30 operating
hours. The recommended pressure for
tilling is 10-to-20 psi (pounds per square
inch). Both tires should be inflated
equally. (Unequal pressure can cause the
tiller to pull to one side.)
To replace the plug, first tighten it
securely by hand, then use a spark plug
wrench to tighten the plug an extra 1/4
turn.
Battery Care and Maintenance
The battery is sealed and is maintenence-
free. Acid levels cannot be checked.
Removing the Wheels
It is critical that the filters be kept clean
and properly installed at all times. See
the location of the air cleaner assembly on
your engine by referring to Figure 5-39 or
Figure 5-40.
• Always keep the battery cables and
terminals clean and free of corrosive
build-up.
Each wheel is secured by a roll (spirol)
pin that passes through the wheel hub
and the wheel shaft. Drive the roll pin out
to remove a wheel.
• After cleaning the battery and
terminals, apply a light coat of
petroleum jelly or grease to the
terminals and cover both terminals
with the rubber boots.
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s litera-
ture supplied with your tiller for complete
air cleaner service and maintenance infor-
mation.
1. Prop the transmission up with a sturdy
block to raise the wheel you want to
remove off the ground.
2. Move the Wheel Speed Lever to either
SLOW or FAST position to prevent the
wheels from turning.
Throttle Cable Maintenance
The throttle lever settings are factory-
adjusted, so unnecessary adjustments
should not be made. However, if the
engine does not start or stop, or respond
immediately to various throttle lever
settings, then adjustments may be
necessary. Please refer to the engine
manufacturer literature supplied with your
tiller for specific adjustment instructions.
WARNING
When removing the battery, always dis-
connect the negative (-) cable first
followed by the positive (+) cable. Re-
verse this procedure when reinstalling
the battery.
3. Use a 5/16" drift pin (or a blunt point
16-penny nail) to drive the roll pin free.
WARNING
Wear safety goggles when driving the
roll pin into or from the wheel hub to
protect your eyes from the possibility of
flying metal particles.
Ignition System Maintenance
Your engine is equipped with electronic
ignition. It does not have a condenser or
points, so there is no need to perform any
regular tune-up maintenance on this
system other than adjusting or replacing
the spark plug.
Engine Oil Maintenance
Check the engine oil level before starting
the engine each day and after each 5
hours of continuous operation. Running
the engine when it is low on oil will
quickly ruin the engine.
39
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Section 5: Maintenance
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, if so equipped.
WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
The switches are wired so when squeezed
(open) the engine will run. There is a
fourth switch located in the wiring
harness connector on the top, right side
of the transmission cover. It warns you if
the connection is not mated by not letting
the engine run while the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever is in FORWARD.
Storing Your Tiller
Inspecting Forward Interlock
Wiring System
Check the Forward Interlock wiring
system every ten (10) operating hours,
for tight connections and to see that the
insulation on the wires is unbroken (to
prevent the system from shorting out).
When your tiller won’t be used during the
off-season, prepare it for storage with the
following steps:
1. Clean the tiller and engine.
2. Do routine tiller lubrication and check
for loose hardware.
1. Check insulated wire harness from
lower ends of handlebars to wire harness
connector on top, right side of transmis-
sion cover. Be sure connector is secure.
1. A broken or disconnected wire could
let the engine run without you having to
press one of the Forward Interlock Levers.
3. Protect the engine from deterioration
or damage by referring to the engine
storage instructions in your engine
manual literature.
2. A bare wire touching tiller or engine
metal could ground out the engine’s
ignition.
2. Check insulated tubing from connector
to cast iron motor mount/belt shroud.
4. When engine is still warm, drain oil
from engine crankcase. Refill with fresh
motor oil.
3. Check the wire leading from the tubing
over to the switch assembly mounted on
top of the tab on the cast iron motor
mount–belt shroud. Also check the
second wire that leads to the throttle
cable mounting bracket on the right side,
forward portion of the engine.
3. A switch that has failed allows the
engine to run. Or it may prevent the
engine from running.
5. Protect internal cylinder against rust by
removing spark plug and pouring one
ounce of clean engine oil into spark plug
hole. Then slowly pull out recoil start
rope 2 or 3 times to distribute oil inter-
nally. Replace spark plug, but do not
reconnect plug wire. Pull rope until resis-
tance is felt — let rope rewind.
Refer to the Troubleshooting section if
your Forward Interlock Safety System is
not operating correctly.
Testing the Forward
Interlock Wiring System
The wiring circuit for the Forward
Interlock Safety System is designed to
ground out the engine’s ignition system.
6. Charge battery (electric start option).
Store battery in cool, dry location.
7. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
NEUTRAL position. Keep tiller in a clean,
dry area.
There are three switches in the circuit
which, when open, let the engine run.
One switch is on the neutral plunger tab
of the cast iron motor mount. This switch
is open whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO
Drive Lever is in NEUTRAL or REVERSE
positions. The other two switches are
located inside the handlebars, directly
above the two Forward Interlock Levers.
8. Never store tiller with fuel in fuel tank
in an enclosed area where gas fumes
could reach an open flame or spark, or
where ignition sources are present (space
heaters, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.).
40
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
PROBLEM
CHECK OR TEST
Engine
won’t start
Engine shuts off when
Engine does not shut off
when Forward Interlock
Levers are released while
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever is in FORWARD
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever is shifted into
FORWARD
(Check or test in sequence shown
until problem is resolved.)
Throttle Lever in START position
X
X
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever
in NEUTRAL position
Forward Interlock Wire Harness
connector securely mated
X
X
X
Forward Interlock Levers not being
squeezed prior to shifting Wheels/
Tines/PTO Drive Lever to
FORWARD position
Visually inspect for bare, broken
or disconnected wires
X
X
X
X
X
X
Check handlebar wire harness
Check transmission wire harness
B. Lever shifts into FAST wheel gear, but
not into SLOW wheel gear–
Troubleshooting Procedures
1 Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever:
A. Lever does not stay in FORWARD–
• Drive belt may be too tight. Raise belt
adjustment block a little (Sect. 5).
• Clutch pawl spring at end of lever may be
overstretched. Install new spring.
• Connecting rod at end of lever might be
backwards, or bent in toward transmission
housing and hitting it. Other shifting linkage
might be bent. Straighten or replace linkage
(Figure 5-43).
• Clutch inside transmission may be binding
(Problem 2-A).
Linkage
B. Lever hard to shift into REVERSE–
• Check reverse disc for wear (Sect. 5).
• Check adjustment of reverse disc and/or
reverse spring and plunger assy. (Sect. 5).
• Clean and re-lubricate motor mount bars,
belt adjustment block and linkages on lever
(Sect. 5).
C. Lever moves freely, but won’t shift in or
out of gear–
Eccentric
• Eccentric shifting pin inside transmission
may be broken (rare) or worn. Disconnect
linkage from eccentric lever and try moving
eccentric lever by hand (Figure 5-43). If
lever moves easily, contact the Technical
Service Department.
Connecting Rod
Figure 5-43: Check connecting rod,
shifting linkage and eccentric lever.
C. Tiller stays in REVERSE when lever is
released–
• Lubricate motor mount bars, belt adjust-
ment block and linkages on lever (Sect. 5).
• Check adjustment of reverse spring and
plunger (Sect. 5). If problem persists,
contact Technical Service Department.
• Lubricate eccentric lever at rear of power
unit transmission (Figure 5-43). If rust is
present, use penetrating oil and work
eccentric lever back and forth by hand.
• Lubricate linkage to Wheel Speed Lever to
eccentric lever (Figure 5-43).
• Clutch inside transmission may be binding.
Disconnect linkage from eccentric lever and
work eccentric lever by hand. If difficult or
impossible to move, it may be due to a
damaged keyway on the wheel shaft.
Contact Technical Service Department.
• Lubricate washers and castle nut on pivot
of lever. If necessary, remove roll pin and
back nut off 1/6th turn. Replace roll pin and
test the movement.
3 Wheels and Tines Won’t Turn:
• Review operation of controls (Sect. 3 & 4).
• Check condition and adjustment of drive
belt and reverse disc (Sect. 5).
• Mounting bolt for transmission drive pulley
may be loose. (See Figure 5-1). If so, drive
belt or reverse disc will turn pulley, but
pulley won’t turn main drive shaft.
• Worm gears that drive wheel and tiller
shafts may be worn.
D. Lever sticks in FORWARD–
• Lubricate motor mount bars, belt adjust-
ment block, and linkages on lever (Sect. 5).
If problem continues, contact the Technical
Service Department.
4 Wheels Turn, But Tines Won’t:
• Tines/PTO Clutch Lever must be in ENGAGE
position (Sect. 3).
• Tines/PTO Clutch Lever may need adjust-
ment.
• Key for dog clutch on tine attachment main
drive shaft may be missing, broken.
• Worm gears that drive the tine shaft may
be worn.
E. Lever hard to shift into FORWARD–
• Follow advice for Problem 1-D. Also check
for possible bent motor mount bar that could
be binding in engine mount holes.
2 Wheel Speed Lever:
A. Lever hard to shift, or sticks in FAST or
SLOW wheel gear positions–
• Apply grease to zerk fitting (if so equipped)
with grease gun until grease appears around
washers.
41
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting
• Hardware holding tine holders to tine shaft
may be missing or broken. To check,
remove holders (Sect. 5).
• Key for bronze worm gear on tine attach-
ment main drive shaft may be missing or
broken.
12 Poor Traction:
• Bar tread tires, tire chains, or wheel
weights may be needed.
• *Fuel tank shut-off valve (if so equipped)
not in fully Open position.
• On Briggs & Stratton engine, On/Off switch
not in ON position.
13 Gear Oil Leak From Power Unit Or Tine
Attachment Transmissions:
• See Section 5.
Electric Start Engines Only:
• Electrical connections loose or shorted to
metal frames, brackets or covers (Sect. 5).
• Battery discharged (Sect. 5).
5 Tines Turn, But Wheels Won’t:
• Check operation of Wheel Speed Lever
(Problem 2).
• Hi-Pro key inside wheel clutch may be
missing, broken. If so, clutch will not turn
wheel shaft.
• FAST and SLOW speed wheel gears may
be worn. If only one gear is worn, there will
only be one wheel speed.
• Worm gear that drives pinion shaft and
pinion gears may be worn.
• FAST and SLOW speed pinion gears may
be worn. If only one gear is worn, there will
only be one wheel speed.
• Drive “dogs” on sides of wheel clutch may
be worn or broken. If only one side of clutch
is affected, there will only be one wheel
speed.
14 Engine Lacks Power:
• *Air cleaner restricted with dirt and/or oil.
• Spark plug wire loose or damaged. Spark
plug worn or fouled.
• Engine under excessive work load. Use
SLOW wheel speed and LOW belt range.
• *Throttle cable may be loose or misad-
justed.
• Electric starter motor faulty.
17 Engine Shuts Off When Wheels/
Tines/PTO Drive Lever Is In Forward:
• See Troubleshooting the Forward Interlock
Safety System in Section 5.
• Short in key switch or key switch wire
harness.
• Verify that engine isn’t running with choke
partially engaged.
• Check starter motor mounting bolts for
looseness. Have Authorized Engine Service
Dealer inspect the starter motor.
• *Check Carburetor adjustment.
• *Engine overheating. Check oil level and
clean cooling fins. Oil may be very dirty. Let
hot engine cool before restarting.
• *Dirt or water in fuel or fuel system.
• Engine crankcase low in oil, or overfilled
with oil. Check and adjust level.
• *Low engine compression.
• Check oil level for correct amount.
18 Engine Overheats
• Clean the engine cooling fins, shroud and
covers (Sect. 5).
• Check for broken flywheel fins (under
engine shroud). See Authorized Engine
Dealer.
6 Wheels And Tines Turn On Top Of
Ground, But Stop Or Hesitate In Soil:
• Drive belt may be loose (Sect. 5).
• Mounting bolt for transmission drive pulley
may be loose (Figure 5-1).
15 Engine Difficult To Start:
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever not in
NEUTRAL position.
• Fuel tank low or empty.
• *Dirt or water in fuel or fuel system.
• *Fuel line is restricted.
• *Choke control not set properly.
• *Spark plug worn or fouled (weak spark).
• *Air cleaner restricted with dirt and/or oil.
• *Throttle cable adjustment.
• Engine throttle lever not free to move
through its full operating range.
• Throttle wire and its linkage are binding, or plugs for leaks. See your Authorized Engine
19 Engine Runs Erratically:
• Water or dirt in gasoline or carburetor.
• Carburetor may need adjustment. See
Engine Owner’s Manual.
• *Spark plug fouled or dirty. Spark plug
wire loose or damaged.
7 Tiller Jumps While Tilling:
• Depth Regulator Lever set too deep for soil
conditions. Use a shallower setting.
• Engine throttle speed too fast.
• Tiller wheel speed too fast for soil condi-
tions. Change to LOW belt range or SLOW
wheel speed.
• *Loose or cracked carburetor.
• Governor linkage not adjusted properly or
binding. See Authorized Engine Service
Dealer. Don’t attempt to repair by yourself.
• Check pan gasket, engine seals and drain
8 Depth Regulator Lever
Difficult To Move:
• Lubricate spring assembly and depth
adjustment bar (Sect. 5).
are bent and not free to move.
• Low engine compression.
Service Dealer.
20 Engine Runs Well,
But Labors Under Tiller Load
• *Check governor linkage for freedom of
movement.
• Check throttle setting and carburetor
adjustment. See Engine Owner’s Manual.
• Tilling depth is possibly too deep. To
correct, lower the depth regulator lever.
• Possible worn tiller worm gear or loose
drive shaft.
16 Engine Won’t Start:
• See Troubleshooting the Forward Interlock
Safety System in Section 5.
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever not in
NEUTRAL position.
• Check for bent depth adjustment bar.
9 Wheel And Shaft Move
Out To One Side:
• Snap ring on wheel shaft may be
dislodged. Raise wheels off ground and
check for back and forth play in shaft. If
there is play, one or both snap rings is loose.
• Fuel tank low or empty. Or fuel line
restricted or clogged.
• *Choke control improperly set.
• *Water or dirt in fuel, and /or fuel system.
• *Spark plug fouled or worn. Spark plug
wire loose or damaged.
• *Carburetor may need adjustment.
• *Air filter clogged with oil or dirt.
• Carburetor float faulty (or float valve
leaking)– if so, tap side of bowl lightly with
handle of screwdriver (or similar object).
• Stale fuel clogs carburetor, and valves.
Drain old fuel and add new fuel.
10 Tiller Pulls To One Side:
• Check tire pressure (Sect. 5).
21 Key Switch Will Not
Start The Engine
• Check battery terminals for corrosion
11 Tine Holder Bolt
Breaks Or Loosens:
• Earlier models have tine holder keys.
Check that keys are in keyways of tine shaft.
Without key in holder, left-side tine bolt will
tighten and break; right-side bolt will loosen
(Sect. 5).
(Sect. 5).
• Discharged battery (Sect. 5).
• Defective solenoid.
42
*See Engine Owner’s Manual or contact an authorized engine dealer for information.
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Appendix B: Attachments & Accessories
Troy-Bilt® PTO Log Splitter
290-258-081
Row Marker Attachment
Wheel Weights
290-266-081
290-257-081
®
The Troy-Bilt PTO Log Splitter provides
Do you like very straight, even, neat rows
in your garden? If so, the Row Marker is
a must attachment. Hooks quickly to the
Hiller/Furrower attachment– eliminates
the need for string, stakes, measuring
tape, etc. You’ll like the straight rows it
Help increase traction by putting extra
weight directly on the wheels. They
reduce bucking and jumping when deep-
tilling in heavy soil. They’re shipped
empty– fill them with material like
concrete, sand, gravel, etc. They bolt
you with a convenient and easy means of
splitting about a half a cord of wood per
hour when working alone. When
connected to the PTO Power Unit, the
tiller’s engine runs the splitter’s hydraulic
pump, providing you with 13 tons of
helps you make if you lay out furrows, dig directly to the tiller wheels.
steady, unhurried and predictable splitting compost trenches, or make raised beds.
force.
The Row Marker extends from 28"-to-
493⁄4", letting you vary the width between
rows to suit the crop you’re planting.
Wrap-Around Bumper Guard
290-255-081
As an added benefit, the power-driven
mobility provided by the PTO Power Unit
allows you to move the splitter to and
from your wood pile, over to a neighbor’s
place, or along the woodpile to a fresh
supply of logs.
Order this Bumper Guard by itself or
receive it as one of the components if you
order the combination Dozer/ Snow Blade
attachment. Protects the engine from
damage by wrapping around and protect-
ing many of the engine components. 1"
diameter, high-strength steel tubing.
V-Sweep Cultivator
290-260-081
The V-Sweep Cultivator is a specialized
tool designed for between-row crop culti-
vation. Instead of stirring the soil, it
slices through just below the surface to
eliminate practically any weeds in its path.
Features include a 15 second splitting
cycle; can handle log sizes up to 26" long;
a two-stage hydraulic pump that automat-
ically shifts into low gear to provide four-
times greater pressure when needed;
slim-cut wedge design for splitting green,
stringy wood; and an auto-control valve
for automatic return stroke.
Hiller/Furrower Attachment
290-250-081
The Sweep mounts easily to the optional
Tow Hitch Attachment at the rear of the
PTO Power Unit. The blade is made of
high carbon, heat treated steel and
measures 2" wide (overall wing span is
20").
The most popular attachment because it
does so many jobs. Mounts to the rear of
the depth regulator bracket. Furrower
blade easily makes plant rows, trenches,
ditches to 8" deep. When hiller wings are
attached to furrower blade, attachment
makes hilled rows and raised bed
gardens. Converts from a furrower to a
hiller and back again, in seconds, without
tools.
Dozer/Snow Blade Attachment
290-259-081
The unique way the Sweep works,
skimming along just underneath the soil’s
surface without turning the soil over,
makes this the ideal tool for use in dry,
dusty conditions where it is important to
keep soil disturbance to a minimum.
And, because of its 20" wide cutting path,
it does an effective cultivation job at a fast
speed.
In the winter, moves up to one foot of
light snow (or 6"-to-8" of heavy snow); at
other times use it to move or spread
sand, gravel, loose dirt, grain, sawdust,
etc. Attaches easily to the front of the
Wrap-Around Bumper Guard. Set the
blade to several angles. Weighs 41-lbs.;
measures 15" x 32".
The Sweep’s natural shallow cultivation
helps to prevent weed seeds from being
brought to the soil’s surface. This
shallow cultivation feature also means
there’s less chance of damaging the roots
of your vegetables. For deeper or more
shallow cultivating, the blade depth can
be changed with a simple adjustment..
43
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Notes
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TROY-BILT TILLER LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY
WHAT PRODUCT
IS COVERED
All Troy-Bilt branded rear tine walk-behind tillers with gear drive transmissions.
This warranty begins on the date of purchase and is warranted by Troy-Bilt LLC for the life
of the tiller, to the original purchaser only.
WHAT IS COVERED
BY THIS WARRANTY
Troy-Bilt LLC will, at its option, repair or replace any part found to be defective in material
or workmanship without charge for parts and labor.
This limited lifetime warranty also applies to non-powered attachments and accessories. Powered
attachments and accessories are warranted separately by their manufacturers. Refer to the applicable
manufacturer’s warranty on these items for terms and conditions.
WHAT IS NOT
COVERED BY THIS
WARRANTY
This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration,
misuse, abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage
because of peril or other natural disaster.
The following items are not covered after the first year of this residential use limited warranty: belts,
batteries, bushings, seals, tines, tires, wheels, paint, appearance items, and similar items that are
normally replaced through periodic maintenance.
Charges for pick-up, delivery, and service calls are not covered by this warranty.
Service completed by someone other than an authorized service dealer is not covered by this warranty.
Parts that are not genuine Troy-Bilt LLC service parts are not covered by this warranty.
The engine is warranted separately by the engine manufacturer. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s
warranty for terms and conditions.
LIMITED
COMMERCIAL
USE WARRANTY
If used for commercial, institutional, industrial, rental, or demonstrator purposes, the
warranty on the tiller is limited in duration to 90 days from the date of purchase.
This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration, misuse, abuse,
neglect, improper maintenance, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of peril or other natural
disaster.
HOW TO OBTAIN
SERVICE
Warranty service is available, with proof of purchase, through your local authorized
service dealer. To locate a dealer in your area, consult your Yellow Pages, or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at
P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, 1-866-840-6483, or log on to our Web site at
The provisions set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt LLC shall
not be liable for any incidental or consequential damage or expense of any kind, including but not limited to cost of
equipment rental, loss of profits, or costs of hiring services to perform tasks normally performed by the equipment.
Any implied warranties, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, shall be limited in
duration to the period of ownership by the original purchaser (and a maximum of 90 days from the date of sale if the tiller is
purchased for commercial or other non-residential use).
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
For customer assistance, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact us at:
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, 1-866-840-6483
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