McCulloch Tiller MFT55 User Manual

MFT55  
Owner's Manual  
423832 Rev. 1 02.17.09 CL  
PRINTED IN U.S.A.  
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CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Read and observe the safety rules.  
Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for  
and using your tiller.  
Gasoline Capacity:  
Unleaded Regular  
3 Quarts (2.8L)  
FollowinstructionsunderMaintenanceandStorage”  
sections of this Operator's Manual.  
Oil (API-SG-SL):  
(Capacity: 20 oz./0.6L)  
SAE 30 (Above 32°F/0°C)  
SAE 5w-30(Below 32°F/0°C)  
IMPORTANT: 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 LAWS (IF ANY).  
IFASPARKARRESTERISUSED,ITSHOULDBEMAINTAINED  
IN EFFECTIVE WORKING ORDER BY THE OPERATOR.  
Spark Plug:  
Champion RC12YC  
(Gap: .030"/0.76mm)  
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tiller. It  
has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give  
you the best possible dependability and performance.  
Should you experience any problems you cannot easily  
remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service  
center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and  
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.  
IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, A SPARK ARRESTER IS  
REQUIRED BY LAW (SECTION 4442 OF THE CALIFORNIA  
PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE). OTHER STATES MAY HAVE  
SIMILARLAWS. FEDERALLAWSAPPLYONFEDERALLANDS.  
SEE YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT  
FOR SPARK ARRESTER.  
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will  
enable you to assemble and maintain your tiller properly.  
Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
MAINTENANCE .....................................................10-12  
SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS .................................13-15  
STORAGE.................................................................... 16  
TROUBLESHOOTING................................................. 17  
REPAIR PARTS ......................................................18-23  
SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS....................................... 3  
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES................................. 3  
ASSEMBLY.................................................................4-5  
OPERATION ...............................................................6-9  
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 10  
3
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ASSEMBLY  
Your new tiller has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.  
To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use  
the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.  
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY  
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard  
wrench sizes are listed.  
FRONT  
(1) Utility knife  
(1) Screwdriver  
(2) 1/2" wrenches  
LEFT  
RIGHT  
OPERATOR’S POSITION (See Fig. 1)  
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it  
means when you are in the operating position (standing  
behind tiller handles).  
OPERATOR'S POSITION  
FIG. 1  
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ꢀꢇ ª7ASHERSªꢉꢃꢆªXªꢊꢃꢆªXªꢄꢇª  
ꢀꢁ ª(EXª.UTSªꢂꢃꢄꢁꢅꢄꢆ  
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4
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ASSEMBLY  
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY  
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HANDLE  
(See Fig. 2)  
(See Fig. 3)  
Loosen nut A.  
Insert stake support between engine bracket halves  
with stake spring down.  
CAUTION: Be careful of exposed  
staples when handling or disposing of  
cartoning material.  
Bolt stake support to engine brackets with bolts, lock  
washers and nuts. Tighten securely. Tighten nut A.  
Depth stake must move freely. If it does not, loosen  
support bolt.  
IMPORTANT:  
WHEN UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLING  
TILLER, BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRETCH OR KINK  
CABLE(S).  
Cut cable ties securing handles.  
Slowly lift handle assembly up, route cable(s) as  
shown and align handle holes with handle panel hole  
and slot.  
Loosely assemble hardware as shown. Be sure the  
shorter (3/4" long) hex bolt is assembled in lower  
hole of handle. Repeat for opposite side. Tighten all  
hardware securely.  
ENGINE BRACKET  
HALVES  
NUT A”  
DEPTH  
STAKE  
DEPTH STAKE  
SUPPORT  
Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid and remove tiller  
from skid.  
Remove screws securing depth stake to skid and  
discard the screws.  
LOCK  
FLAT  
SUPPORT  
BOLT  
NUT WASHER  
WASHER  
STAKE  
SPRING  
TILLER  
HANDLE  
HANDLE  
PANEL  
HEX BOLTS,  
LOCK WASHERS,  
AND HEX NUTS  
HEX BOLT  
5/16-18X1"  
FIG. 3  
HEX BOLT  
5/16-18X3/4"  
HANDLE HEIGHT  
Handle height may be adjusted to better suit operator.  
(See “HANDLE HEIGHT” in the Service and Adjust-  
ments section of this manual).  
1
5
020  
CABLE(S)  
TILLING WIDTH  
HANDLE  
PANEL  
BOLTS  
Tilling width may be adjusted to better handle your  
tilling conditions (See “TINE ARRANGEMENT” in the  
Service and Adjustments section of this manual).  
TILLER  
HANDLES  
TINE OPERATION  
Check tine operation before first use. (See “TINE  
OPERATION CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual).  
FIG. 2  
5
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OPERATION  
KNOW YOUR TILLER  
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TILLER.  
Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save  
this manual for future reference.  
These symbols may appear on your Tiller or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their mean-  
ing.  
REVERSE TINE  
FORWARD TINE  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CHOKE CONTROL  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
DEPTH STAKE  
TINE  
SHIELD  
RECOIL  
STARTER  
HANDLE  
TINES  
FIG. 4  
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS  
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.  
REVERSE TINE CONTROL - Engages tines in reverse  
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.  
direction.  
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed and the depth at  
which the tiller will dig.  
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to start the engine.  
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine speed.  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages tines in forward  
direction.  
6
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OPERATION  
The operation of any tiller can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result  
in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your tiller  
and while tilling. We recommend a wide vision safety mask for over spectacles or standard  
safety glasses.  
HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER  
Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel and  
oil or attempting to start engine.  
TILLING  
The speed and depth of tilling is regulated by the position  
of the depth stake and wheel height.  
The depth stake should always be below the wheels for  
digging. It serves as a brake to slow the tiller’s forward  
motion to enable the tines to penetrate the ground. Also,  
the more the depth stake is lowered into the ground the  
deeper the tines will dig.  
STOPPING (See Fig. 5)  
TINES  
Release forward tine control to stop forward move-  
ment.  
Release reverse tine control to stop reverse move-  
ment.  
DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 6)  
Adjust depth stake by removing the hairpin clip and clevis  
pin. Change depth stake to desired position. Replace the  
clevis pin and hairpin clip.  
ENGINE  
Move throttle control to “STOP” position.  
For normal tilling, set depth stake at the second or third  
hole from the top.  
Never use choke to stop engine.  
WHEELS (See Fig. 6)  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL IN  
“OFF” (UP) POSITION  
Adjust wheels by removing the hairpin clip and clevis  
pin. Change wheel position. Replace the hairpin clip and  
clevis pin.  
REVERSE  
CONTROL  
For normal tilling, set wheels at the second or third  
hole from the top.  
HAIRPIN CLIP  
AND CLEVIS PIN  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL  
IN “ON” (DOWN) POSITION  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
DEPTH  
STAKE  
STAKE  
SPRING  
WHEEL  
CHOKE  
CONTROL  
FIG. 6  
FIG. 5  
TINE OPERATION (See Fig. 5)  
FORWARD  
Squeeze forward tine control to handle.  
REVERSE  
With forward tine control “OFF” (up) position, pull back  
and hold reverse tine control.  
7
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OPERATION  
TO TRANSPORT  
CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top  
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to  
allow for fuel expansion. If gasoline  
is accidentally spilled, move machine  
away from area of spill. Avoid creating  
any source of ignition until gasoline  
vapors have disappeared.  
Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not  
store, spill or use gasoline near an  
open flame.  
CAUTION: Before lifting or trans-  
porting, allow tiller engine and muffler  
to cool. Disconnect spark plug wire.  
Drain gasoline from fuel tank.  
AROUND THE YARD  
Tip depth stake forward until it is held by the stake  
spring.  
Push tiller handles down, raising tines off the  
ground.  
Push or pull tiller to desired location.  
IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES  
BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE  
GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER  
STARTING.  
AROUND TOWN  
Disconnect spark plug wire.  
Drain fuel tank.  
Transport in upright position to prevent oil leakage.  
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called  
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can at-  
tract moisture which leads to separation and  
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas  
can damage the fuel system of an engine while  
in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel  
system should be emptied before storage of  
30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start  
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines  
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next  
season. SeeStorageInstructionsforadditional  
information. Never use engine or carburetor  
cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent  
damage may occur.  
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE  
IMPORTANT: BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT  
TO ENTER THE ENGINE WHEN CHECKING OR ADDING  
OIL OR FUEL. USE CLEAN OIL AND FUEL AND STORE IN  
APPROVED, CLEAN, COVERED CONTAINERS. USE CLEAN  
FILL FUNNELS.  
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL (See Fig. 7)  
With engine level, remove engine oil filler plug.  
Fill engine with oil to point of overflowing. For approx-  
imatecapacityseePRODUCTSPECIFICATIONSon  
page 3 of this manual.  
Tilt tiller back on its wheels and then re-level.  
With engine level, refill to point of overflowing if nec-  
essary. Replace oil filler plug.  
For cold weather operation you should change oil for  
easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the  
Maintenance section of this manual).  
To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section of  
this manual.  
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 8)  
CAUTION: Keep drive control bar in  
“DISENGAGED” position when start-  
ing engine.  
When starting engine for the first time or if engine has run  
out of fuel, it will take extra pulls of the recoil starter to  
move fuel from the tank to the engine.  
Make sure spark plug wire is properly connected.  
Move shift lever indicator to “N” (neutral) position.  
Place throttle control in “FAST” position.  
Turn fuel shut-off valve 1/4 turn to open position.  
Move choke control to choke position.  
Grasp recoil starter handle with one hand and grasp  
tiller handle with other hand. Pull rope out slowly until  
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will  
pull slightly harder at this point).  
Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do not let starter  
handle snap back against starter.  
If engine fires but does not start, move choke control  
to half choke position. Pull recoil starter handle until  
engine starts.  
OIL  
LEVEL  
OIL  
FILLER  
PLUG  
_4  
t
_ar  
ne  
i
eng  
FIG. 7  
When engine starts, slowly move choke control to  
ADD GASOLINE  
"RUN" position as engine warms up.  
Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill.  
Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a  
minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will  
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce  
valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel  
in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure  
fuel freshness.  
NOTE: A warm engine requires less choking to start.  
Move throttle control to desired running position.  
Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before  
engaging tines.  
8
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OPERATION  
NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or in cold  
Soilconditionsareimportantforpropertilling.Tineswill  
temperatures (below 32°F), the carburetor fuel mixture  
may need to be adjusted for best engine performance.  
See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and  
Adjustments section of this manual.  
notreadilypenetratedry,hardsoilwhichmaycontribute  
to excessive bounce and difficult handling of your tiller.  
Hard soil should be moistened before tilling; however,  
extremely wet soil will “ball-up” or clump during tilling.  
Wait until the soil is less wet in order to achieve the  
best results. When tilling in the fall, remove vines and  
long grass to prevent them from wrapping around the  
tine shaft and slowing your tilling operation.  
NOTE: If engine does not start, see troubleshooting  
points.  
SPARK PLUG  
You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row  
untilled between passes. Then go back between tilled  
rows. (See Fig. 9) There are two reasons for doing  
this. First, wide turns are much easier to negotiate than  
about-faces. Second, the tiller won’t be pulling itself,  
and you, toward the row next to it.  
Set depth stake and wheel height for shallow tilling  
when working extremely hard soil or sod. Then work  
across the first cuts at normal depth.  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
CHOKE  
CONTROL  
RECOIL STARTER  
HANDLE  
FIG. 8  
BREAKING IN YOUR TILLER  
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine control before you  
actually begin tilling.  
Start engine, tip tines off ground by pressing handles  
down and engage tine control to start tine rotation.  
Allow tines to rotate for five minutes.  
Checktineoperationandadjustifnecessary. SeeTINE  
OPERATION CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual.  
4
3
2
1
5
6
7
TILLING HINTS  
FIG. 9  
CAUTION: Until you are accustomed  
to handling your tiller, start actual field  
use with throttle in slow position.  
CULTIVATING  
Cultivating is destroying the weeds between rows to pre-  
vent them from robbing nourishment and moisture from the  
plants. At the same time, breaking up the upper layer of  
soil crust will help retain moisture in the soil. Best digging  
depth is 1"-3".  
To help tiller move forward, lift up the handles slightly (thus  
lifting depth stake out of ground). To slow down the tiller,  
press down on handles.  
If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the wheels and depth  
stakearenot setproperlyinthesoilbeingtilled. Theproper  
setting of the wheels and depth stake is through trial and  
error and depends upon the soil condition. (The harder or  
wetter the ground, the slower the engine and tine speed  
needed. Under these poor conditions, at fast speed the  
tiller will run and jump over the ground).  
Youwillprobablynotneedtousethedepthstake.Begin  
by tipping the depth stake forward until it is held by the  
stake spring.  
Cultivate up and down the rows at a speed which will  
allow tines to uproot weeds and leave the ground in  
rough condition, promoting no further growth of weeds  
and grass (See Fig. 10).  
A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little effort from the  
operator.  
Tilling is digging into, turning over, and breaking up  
packed soil before planting. Loose, unpacked soil  
helps root growth. Best tilling depth is 4"-6". A tiller  
will also clear the soil of unwanted vegetation. The  
decomposition of this vegetable matter enriches the  
soil. Depending on the climate (rainfall and wind), it  
may be advisable to till the soil at the end of the grow-  
ing season to further condition the soil.  
FIG. 10  
9
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MAINTENANCE  
MAINTENANCE  
SCHEDULE  
FILL IN DATES  
AS YOU COMPLETE  
REGULAR SERVICE  
SERVICE DATES  
BEFORE EEAVCEHRUYS5EHEOVEURYS 25EHVOEURRYS50 HOURS  
Check Engine Oil Level  
Change Engine Oil  
Oil Pivot Points  
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler  
Inspect Air Screen  
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge  
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins  
Replace Spark Plug  
2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.  
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.  
LUBRICATION CHART  
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS  
The warranty on this tiller does not cover items that have  
beensubjectedtooperatorabuseornegligence. Toreceive  
full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain  
tiller as instructed in this manual.  
c TINE CONTROL  
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to  
properly maintain your tiller.  
d ENGINE  
At least once a season, check to see if you should make  
any of the adjustments described in the Service and Ad-  
justments section of this manual.  
Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean  
or replace air filter, and check tines and belts for wear.  
A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-  
fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last  
longer.  
BEFORE EACH USE  
Check engine oil level.  
Check tine operation.  
Check for loose fasteners.  
c IDLER  
ARM  
LUBRICATION  
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRICATION CHART”).  
cSAE 30 OR 10W-30 MOTOR OIL  
dREFER TO MAINTENANCE “ENGINE” SECTION  
10  
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MAINTENANCE  
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance (except carburetor adjustment) to  
prevent accidental starting of engine.  
Prevent fires! Keep the engine free of grass, leaves, spilled oil, or fuel. Remove fuel from tank  
before tipping unit for maintenance. Clean muffler area of all grass, dirt, and debris.  
Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as contact may cause burns.  
ENGINE  
LUBRICATION  
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service  
classification SG-SL. Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade  
according to your expected temperature.  
OIL  
DRAIN  
PLUG  
OIL LEVEL  
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES  
OIL FILLER  
PLUG  
SAE 30  
5W-30  
-20  
0
30  
32 40  
100  
60  
80  
F
FIG. 12  
C
-20  
0
10  
-30  
-10  
20  
30  
40  
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE  
oil_visc_chart1_e  
AIR CLEANER (See Fig. 13)  
Service aircleanercartridgeeverytwenty-fivehours, more  
often if engine is used in very dusty conditions.  
FIG. 11  
NOTE: Althoughmulti-viscosityoils(5W-30, 10W-30, etc.)  
improve starting in cold weather, these multi viscosity oils  
will result in increased oil consumption when used above  
32°F (0°C). Check your engine oil level more frequently to  
avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.  
Loosen air cleaner screws, one on each side of  
cover.  
Remove air cleaner cover.  
Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge. Be careful. Do  
not allow dirt or debris to fall into carburetor.  
Clean by tapping gently on a flat surface.  
If very dirty or damaged, replace cartridge.  
Clean and replace cover. Tighten screws securely.  
Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at  
least once a year if the tiller is not used for 25 hours in  
one year.  
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine  
and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Add SAE  
30 motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug securely  
each time you check the oil level.  
CAUTION: Petroleumsolvents,suchas  
kerosene, are not to be used to clean  
cartridge. Theymaycausedeterioration  
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge.  
Do not use pressurized air to clean or  
dry cartridge.  
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Figs. 11 and 12)  
Determine temperature range expected before oil change.  
All oil must meet API service classification SG-SL.  
Be sure tiller is on level surface.  
Oil will drain more freely when warm.  
Catch oil in a suitable container.  
Remove drain plug.  
AIR CLEANER CARTRIDGE  
COVER  
Tip tiller forward to drain oil.  
After oil has drained completely, replace oil drain plug  
and tighten securely.  
Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to allow dirt to  
enter the engine.  
Refillenginewithoil. SeeCHECKENGINEOILLEVEL”  
in the Operation section of this manual.  
AIR  
CLEANER  
SCREW  
FIG. 13  
11  
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MAINTENANCE  
COOLING SYSTEM (See Fig. 14)  
Your engine is air cooled. For proper engine performance  
and long life keep your engine clean.  
MUFFLER  
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do not tamper with  
exhaust system. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters  
could create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically and replace  
ifnecessary.Ifyourengineisequippedwithasparkarrester  
screen assembly, remove every 50 hours for cleaning and  
inspection. Replace if damaged.  
Clean air screen frequently using a stiff-bristled-  
brush.  
Remove blower housing and clean as necessary.  
Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.  
SPARK PLUG  
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each tilling sea-  
son or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first.  
Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in “PRODUCT  
SPECIFICATIONS” on page 3 of this manual.  
CYLINDER FINS  
MUFFLER  
BLOWER  
HOUSING  
TRANSMISSION  
Your transmission is sealed and will not require lubrication  
unless serviced.  
AIR  
SCREEN  
CLEANING  
Do not clean your tiller when the engine and transmission  
are hot. We do not recommend using pressurized water  
(garden hose, etc.) to clean your unit unless the gasket  
area around the transmission and the engine muffler, air  
filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water  
in engine will shorten the useful life of your tiller.  
FIG. 14  
Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all foreign mat-  
ter.  
Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline,  
oil, etc.  
Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax.  
12  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come into  
contact with plug.  
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 22" PATH (See Fig. 17)  
TILLER  
Assemble holes A” in tine hubs to holes “C” in tine  
shaft.  
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT (See Fig. 15)  
Factoryassemblyhasprovidedlowesthandleheight. Select  
handle height best suited for your tilling conditions. Handle  
height will be different when tiller digs into soil.  
A
C
A
C
If a higher handle height is desired, loosen the four  
nuts securing handle panel to engine brackets.  
Slide handle panel to desired location.  
Tighten the four nuts securely.  
tine_5  
FIG. 17  
ENGINE BRACKETS  
HANDLE  
PANEL  
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING - 12-3/4" PATH  
(See Fig. 18)  
NUTS (ALSO 2  
ON LEFT SIDE  
OF TILLER)  
Remove outer tines.  
tine_6  
FIG. 15  
INNER TINES ONLY  
TINE ARRANGEMENT  
Youroutertinescanbeassembledinseveraldifferentways  
to suit your tilling or cultivating needs.  
FIG. 18  
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines, be sure right tine  
assembly (marked “R”) and left tine assembly (marked “L)  
are mounted to correct side of tine shaft.  
CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear  
gloves or other protection when han-  
dling tines.  
NORMAL TILLING - 24" PATH (See Fig. 16)  
Assemble holes A” in tine hubs to holes “B” in tine  
shaft.  
OUTER  
TINE  
CLEVIS  
PIN  
A
A
B
B
tine_4  
HAIRPIN CLIP  
INNER TINE  
FIG. 16  
13  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
TINE OPERATION CHECK (See Fig. 19)  
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD (See Fig. 20)  
Remove two (2) cap nuts and washers from side of  
belt guard.  
WARNING: Disconnectsparkplugwire  
fromsparkplugtopreventstartingwhile  
checking tine operation.  
Loosen (do not remove) tine shield nut on underside  
of tine shield.  
Pull belt guard out and away from unit.  
For proper tine operation, forward tine control lever must  
be against control body and all slack removed from inner  
wire of control cable when control is in the “OFF” (up)  
position.  
Replace belt guard by reversing above procedure. Be  
sure slot in bottom of belt guard is under head of tine  
shield bolt and all nuts are tightened securely.  
Ifleverandcableareloose,loosencableclipatlowerendof  
cable. Pull up on cable to remove slack, without extending  
spring on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.  
CAP NUTS  
AND WASHERS  
FINAL CHECK “OFF” POSITION  
BELT  
GUARD  
With tine control “OFF” (up), push down on handle to  
raise tines off the ground.  
Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines.  
Tines should not rotate.  
If tines rotate, inner wire of control cable is too tight  
which is extending lower spring and engaging tines.  
Loosencableclipandpushdownoncableonlyenough  
to relieve spring tension. Tighten cable clip.  
Recheck in “OFF” position and adjust if necessary.  
TINE  
SHIELD  
NUT  
FINAL CHECK “ON” POSITION  
WithtinecontrolON(helddowntohandle)pushdown  
on handle to raise tines off the ground.  
FIG. 20  
Slowly pull recoil starter handle while observing tines.  
Tines should rotate forward.  
If tines do not rotate, inner wire of control cable is too  
loose. Loosen cable clip and pull cable up to remove  
slack and retighten clip.  
TO REPLACE V-BELTS (See Figs. 21 and 22)  
Replace V-belts if they have stretched considerably or if  
they show cracks or frayed edges. There are two (2) V-  
belts - forward (inside) and reverse (outside).  
Recheck in “ON” position and adjust if necessary.  
Belt guard must be removed to service belts. See “TO  
REMOVE BELT GUARD” in this section of manual.  
NOTE: Observe carefully routing of both belts and location  
NOTE: IfONpositioncheckrequiredadjustment,recheck  
“OFF” position adjustment to insure tines do not rotate  
FORWARD TINE  
CONTROL IN “OFF”  
(UP) POSITION  
of all belt guides before removing belts.  
BELT REMOVAL  
Remove reverse idler pulley from idler arm.  
Remove reverse (outside) V-belt.  
Remove forward (inside) V-belt from transmission pul-  
ley first and then from engine pulley.  
TINE CONTROL  
“ON” POSITION  
BODY  
BELT REPLACEMENT  
Install new forward (inside) V-belt to engine pulley first  
then to transmission pulley. Be sure belt is positioned  
on inside groove of both pulleys, inside all belt guides  
and rests on idler pulley.  
CABLE  
TINE  
CLIP  
CONTROL  
CABLE  
Beforeinstallingreverse(outside)V-belt,turnbeltinside  
out”. Twist so wide, flat surface of belt is to inside.  
WrapV-beltaroundreverseidlerpulleyandreassemble  
idler to idler arm. Tighten securely. Be sure belt is  
between reverse idler pulley and idler arm pin.  
Install belt to outside groove of transmission pulley. Be  
sure belt is inside all belt guides and rests on outside  
groove of engine pulley.  
CHECK TINE OPERATION  
See “TINE OPERATION CHECK” in this section of  
manual.  
FIG. 19  
REPLACE BELT GUARD  
14  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
ENGINE  
FORWARD MOTION (INSIDE) V-BELT  
ENGINE PULLEY  
BELT GUIDE  
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR  
TRANSMISSION  
PULLEY  
Thecarburetorhasbeenpresetatthefactoryandadjustment  
should not be necessary. However, engine performance  
can be affected by differences in fuel, temperature, altitude  
or load. If the carburetor does need adjustment, contact  
your nearest authorized service center/department  
IMPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE  
GOVERNOR,WHICHISFACTORYSETFORPROPERENGINE  
SPEED. OVERSPEEDINGTHEENGINEABOVETHEFACTORY  
HIGH SPEED SETTING CAN BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THINK  
THEENGINE-GOVERNEDHIGHSPEEDNEEDSADJUSTING,  
CONTACTYOURNEARESTAUTHORIZEDSERVICECENTER/  
DEPARTMENT, WHICH HAS THE PROPER EQUIPMENT AND  
EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS.  
REVERSE  
IDLER PULLEY  
BELT GUIDE  
FORWARD  
IDLER PULLEY  
REVERSE (OUTSIDE) V-BELT  
REVERSE  
IDLER  
PULLEY  
belts_10  
ENGINE PUL-  
LEY  
FORWARD  
IDLER PULLEY  
FRONT VIEW REFERENCE  
REVERSE  
IDLER PULLEY  
IDLER  
ARM PIN  
ENGINE  
PULLEY  
FIG. 21  
REVERSE  
IDLER ARM  
REVERSE (OUTSIDE)  
V-BELT  
REVERSE  
IDLER PULLEY  
IDLER  
ARM PIN  
BELT GUARD  
BOLT  
FORWARD MOTION  
(INSIDE) V-BELT  
ENGINE PULLEY  
TRANSMISSION  
PULLEY  
BELT  
GUIDE  
FORWARD IDLER  
PULLEY  
FIG. 22  
15  
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STORAGE  
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage at the end of the  
ENGINE OIL  
Drainoil(withenginewarm)andreplacewithcleanoil. (See  
“ENGINE” in the Maintenance section of this manual).  
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.  
WARNING: Never store the tiller with  
gasoline in the tank inside a building  
where fumes may reach an open flame  
orspark. Allowtheenginetocoolbefore  
storing in any enclosure.  
CYLINDER(S)  
Remove spark plug.  
Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into  
cylinder.  
TILLER  
Pull starter handle slowly several times to distribute  
oil.  
Replace with new spark plug.  
Cleanentiretiller(SeeCLEANINGintheMaintenance  
section of this manual).  
Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt re-  
placement instructions in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual).  
Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this  
OTHER  
manual.  
Do not store gasoline from one season to another.  
Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely  
fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage  
and wear. Replace if necessary.  
Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand  
lightly before painting.  
Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.  
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.  
If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give  
protection from dust and dirt.  
Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that  
does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic  
cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and  
will cause your unit to rust.  
ENGINE  
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER TILLER WHILE ENGINE AND  
EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.  
FUEL SYSTEM  
IMPORTANT:ITISIMPORTANTTOPREVENTGUMDEPOSITS  
FROMFORMINGINESSENTIALFUELSYSTEMPARTSSUCH  
AS THE CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK  
DURING STORAGE. ALSO, EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT  
ALCOHOL BLENDED FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING  
ETHANOLORMETHANOL)CANATTRACTMOISTUREWHICH  
LEADSTOSEPARATIONANDFORMATIONOFACIDSDURING  
STORAGE. ACIDIC GAS CAN DAMAGE THE FUEL SYSTEM  
OF AN ENGINE WHILE IN STORAGE.  
Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and let it run  
until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.  
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in  
the fuel tank or permanent.  
Use fresh fuel next season.  
NOTE: Fuel stablizer is an acceptable alternative in  
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during  
storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage  
container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stablizer  
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding  
stablizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor.  
Do not empty the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel  
stabilizer.  
16  
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TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Will not start  
1. Out of fuel.  
1. Fill fuel tank.  
2. Engine not “CHOKED” properly.  
3. Engine flooded.  
4. Dirty air cleaner.  
5. Water in fuel.  
2. See “TO START ENGINE” in the Operation section.  
3. Wait several minutes before attempting to start.  
4. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.  
5. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, and refill tank with  
fresh gasoline.  
6. Clogged fuel tank.  
7. Loose spark plug wire.  
6. Remove fuel tank and clean.  
7. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on  
plug.  
8. Bad spark plug or improper gap.  
9. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
8. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.  
9. Make necessary adjustments.  
Hard to start  
1. Throttle control not set properly.  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Bad spark plug or improper gap.  
4. Stale or dirty fuel.  
1. Place throttle control in “FAST” position.  
2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.  
3. Replace spark plug or adjust gap.  
4. Empty fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.  
5. Make sure spark plug wire is seated properly on  
plug.  
5. Loose spark plug wire.  
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
6. Make necessary adjustments.  
Loss of power  
1. Engine is overloaded.  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Low oil level/dirty oil.  
4. Faulty spark plug.  
5. Oil in fuel.  
1. Set depth stake and wheels for shallower tilling.  
2. Clean or replace air cleaner cartridge.  
3. Check oil level/change oil.  
4. Clean and regap or change spark plug.  
5. Empty and clean fuel tank and refill, and clean  
carburetor.  
6. Stale or dirty fuel.  
7. Water in fuel.  
6. Empty fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.  
7. Empty fuel tank and carburetor, and refill tank with  
fresh gasoline.  
8. Clogged fuel tank.  
8. Remove fuel tank and clean.  
9. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
10. Clean engine air screen.  
11. Clean/replace muffler.  
12. Make necessary adjustments.  
13. Contact an authorized service center/department.  
9. Spark plug wire loose.  
10. Dirty engine air screen.  
11. Dirty/clogged muffler.  
12. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
13. Poor compression.  
Engine overheats  
1. Low oil level/dirty oil.  
2. Dirty engine air screen.  
3. Dirty engine.  
4. Partially plugged muffler.  
5. Improper carburetor adjustment.  
1. Check oil level/change oil.  
2. Clean engine air screen.  
3. Clean cylinder fins, air screen, muffler area.  
4. Remove and clean muffler.  
5. Adjust carburetor to richer position.  
Excessive bounce/  
difficult handling  
1. Ground too dry and hard.  
1. Moisten ground or wait for more favorable soil  
conditions.  
2. Adjust wheels and depth stake.  
2. Wheels and depth stake incorrectly adjusted.  
Soil balls up or clumps  
1. Ground too wet.  
1. Wait for more favorable soil conditions.  
Engine runs but tiller  
won’t move  
1. Tine control is not engaged.  
2. V-belt not correctly adjusted.  
3. V-belt is off pulley(s).  
1. Engage tine control.  
2. Inspect/adjust V-belt.  
3. Inspect V-belt.  
Engine runs but labors  
when tilling  
1. Tilling too deep.  
2. Throttle control not properly adjusted.  
3. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
1. Set depth stake for shallower tilling.  
2. Check throttle control setting.  
3. Make necessary adjustments.  
17  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
HANDLE ASSEMBLY  
ꢄꢁ  
ꢄꢋ  
ꢈꢋ  
ꢄꢌ  
ꢇꢉ  
ꢄꢄ  
ꢄꢇ  
ꢇꢇ  
ꢄꢈ  
ꢄꢉ  
FT-handle_assy_1  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
187820X421 Bracket, Handle  
13  
14  
16  
19  
180847  
181452X421 Panel, Handle  
166377  
188562  
Bolt, Carriage, Gr. 5 5/16-18 x 3/4  
72140512  
165787  
166376  
Bolt, Carriage 5/16-18 x 1-1/2  
Grip, Handle  
Handle, L.H.  
Handle, R.H.  
Tine Control Lever Assembly  
(Includes Cable)  
Pin, Pivot  
Retaining Ring  
Cable Assembly, Reverse  
Clip  
73680500  
19111116  
19121414  
74760520  
74760516  
10040500  
73220500  
98000129  
Nut, Hex, Crownlock 5/16-18  
Washer 11/32 x 11/16 x 16 Gauge  
Washer 3/8 x 7/8 x 14 Gauge  
Bolt, Hex Head 5/16-18 x 1-1/4  
Bolt, Hex Head 5/16-18 x 1  
Washer, Lock 5/16  
20  
29  
43  
44  
188555  
12000059  
188177  
181580  
9
10  
11  
12  
Nut, Hex 5/16-18  
Nut, Hex, Flanged 5/16-18  
NOTE: AllcomponentdimensionsaregiveninU.S.inches.  
18  
1 inch = 25.4 mm  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
BELT GUARD AND PULLEY ASSEMBLY  
41  
1
2
3
4
17  
42  
6
5
8
10  
7
29  
11  
11  
31  
12  
30  
29  
11  
12  
9
13  
11  
28  
27  
14  
15  
19  
26  
20  
25  
24  
16  
23  
22  
32  
21  
18  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
3
180377  
9484R  
86777  
Bracket Assembly, Belt Guard  
Clip, Cable  
Screw, Hex Washer Head, Slotted,  
Thread Cutting #10-24 x 1/2  
Bolt, Hex Head 1/2-20 x 3/4  
Locknut, Hex 3/8-16  
Washer 13/32 x 13/16 x 16 Gauge  
Pulley, Idler, Reverse  
Reverse Idler Arm Assembly  
Bolt, Hex Head 3/8-16 x 1-3/4  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
41  
42  
188502  
Bolt, Belt Guard  
Ring, Klip  
Nut, Hex, Jam 3/8-16  
Pulley, Idler  
Arm, Idler  
Bolt, Hex Head 3/8-16 x 1-1/4  
Shaft, Idler Arm  
Nut, Hex, Jam 5/16-18  
Nut, Hex 1/4-20  
Washer, Lock, HH Spring 1/4  
Pad, Idler  
SetScrew,Headless,C.P.1/4-20x1/4  
Sheave, Engine  
Pulley, V-Groove, Transmission  
Spring  
12000036  
73350600  
161806  
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
74610812  
73680600  
19131316  
2009J  
180323  
74760628  
175377  
74760620  
106968X  
73350500  
73220400  
10040400  
109227X  
23200404  
101189L  
151223  
194630X421 Guard, Belt  
19091016  
104213X  
72140406  
133035  
2614J  
12000028  
2649M  
Washer 9/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge  
Nut, Hex, Cap 1/4-20  
Bolt, Carriage 1/4-20 x 3/4  
V-Belt (Forward Motion)  
V-Belt (Reverse)  
Ring, Retainer  
Key, Square  
180307  
138909  
Spacer  
NOTE: AllcomponentdimensionsaregiveninU.S.inches.  
19  
151236  
Pulley, Flat, Transmission  
1 inch = 25.4 mm  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
WHEEL AND DEPTH STAKE ASSEMBLY  
ꢄꢉ  
ꢄꢌ  
ꢄꢄ  
ꢈꢈ  
ꢄꢂ  
ꢈꢇ  
ꢄꢁ  
ꢈꢄ  
ꢈꢇ  
ꢈꢌ  
ꢄꢆ  
ꢄꢊ  
ꢈꢂ  
ꢄꢋ  
ꢈꢂ  
ꢄꢊ  
ꢄꢆ  
ꢈꢌ  
ꢄꢋ  
ꢄꢁ  
WHEEL?DꢍSTAKE?ꢈ?Rꢄ  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9194R  
Pin, Clevis  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
24  
25  
121117X  
193851X427 Wheel  
Bolt, Shoulder  
74760520  
74760512  
73220500  
10040500  
73800600  
4921H  
1952J  
122233X  
326J  
Bolt, Hex Head 5/16-18 x 1-1/4  
Bolt, Hex Head 5/16-18 x 3/4  
Nut, Hex 5/16-18  
Washer, Lock 5/16  
Locknut, Washer Insert 3/8-16  
Clip, Hairpin  
Support, Depth Stake, R.H.  
Stake, Depth  
Pin, Clevis  
Bolt, Hex Head 3/8-16 x 1-3/4  
Support, Depth Stake, L.H.  
Spring, Stake  
19131311  
9190R  
73680600  
74760516  
73800500  
73970500  
19171416  
Washer 13/32 x 13/16 x 11 Gauge  
Bracket, Wheel  
Nut, Hex, Crownlock 3/8-16  
Bolt, Hex Head 5/16-18 x 1  
Locknut, Washer Insert 5/16-18  
Nut, Hex, Flangelock  
Washer 17/32 x 7/8 x16 Ga.  
9
10  
11  
13  
15  
74780628  
1951J  
5388J  
NOTE: AllcomponentdimensionsaregiveninU.S.inches.  
1 inch = 25.4 mm  
20  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
TINE ASSEMBLY  
1
2
3
2
6
4
6
5
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
3
4
5
6
156926  
3146R  
156924  
156923  
156925  
4929H  
Tine, Outer, R.H.  
Retainer, Spring  
Tine, Inner, R.H.  
Tine, Inner, L.H.  
Tine, Outer, L.H.  
Pin, Clevis  
21  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
TRANSMISSION  
20  
1
2
3
5
6
11  
19  
18  
17  
16  
8
14  
11  
10  
7
10  
14  
10  
12  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
10  
11  
12  
14  
74760524  
Bolt, Hex Head, Gr. 25/16-18 x 1-1/2  
Bolt, Hex Head 3/8-16 x 3-1/4  
Washer 13/32 x 13/16 x 11  
Nut, Hex, Flangelock 3/8-16  
Shield, Tine  
Bracket, Engine, R.H.  
Bracket, Engine, L.H.  
Nut, Hex, Flangelock  
Bolt, Shoulder  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
19091412  
Washer 9/32 x 7/8 x 12 Gauge  
Washer 9/32 x 1-1/4 x 16 Gauge  
Washer, Lock 1/4  
Bolt, Hex Head, Gr. 5 1/4-28 x 3/4  
Engine, Briggs & Stratton, Model  
Number 126302 (Order parts from  
engine manufacturer)  
74780652  
19131311  
73900600  
9057R421  
188195  
165834  
73970500  
187912  
19092016  
10040400  
74610412  
- - -  
NOTE: AllcomponentdimensionsaregiveninU.S.inches.  
151222  
9173R  
Transmission  
Spacer, Split  
1 inch = 25.4 mm  
22  
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FRONT TINE TILLER – MODEL NUMBER MFT55 (MFG. ID. NO. 96081000602)  
DECALS  
4
5
1
6
7
2
8
11  
10  
13  
KEY PART  
NO. NO.  
DESCRIPTION  
1
2
4
5
6
7
8
10  
11  
13  
- -  
402297  
403745  
189936  
120431X  
417543  
417544  
162215  
411816  
120075X  
168869  
423832  
Decal, Control Panel  
Decal, Belt Guard  
Decal, Reverse, Tine Control  
Decal, Hand Placement  
Decal, Engine  
Decal, Tank  
Decal, Warning  
Decal, Rewind Starter  
Decal, Warning, Rotating Tines  
Decal, Tick Mark  
Manual, Owner's, English  
23  
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