TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
Printed In USA
OperatOr’s Manual
Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty
WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Troy-Bilt 700 Series VTT
Form No. 769-10107
(August 6, 2014)
Customer Support
Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting the Customer Support Department.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
◊ Visit us on the web at www.troybilt.com
See How-to Maintenance and Parts Installation Videos at www.troybilt.com/tutorials
◊ Call a Customer Support Representative at (800) 828-5500 or (330) 558-7220
◊ Write to Troy-Bilt LLC • P.O. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019
Thank you for purchasing a Troy-Bilt Garden Tiller, It was carefully
engineered to provide excellent performance when properly
operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.
It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent
product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,
its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s
Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various
models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve
the right to change product specifications, designs and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
If applicable, the power testing information used to establish
the power rating of the engine equipped on this machine can be
found at www.opei.org or the engine manufacturer’s web site.
If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
phone a authorized Troy-Bilt service dealer or contact us directly.
Troy-Bilt’s Customer Support telephone numbers, website
address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want
to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.
Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position
Thank You
Record Product Information
Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please
locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the
model plate by standing at the operator’s position and looking
down at the top right corner of the tine shield. This information
will be necessary, should you seek technical support via our web
site, Customer Support Department, or with a local authorized
service dealer.
Model NuMber
Serial NuMber
To The Owner
1
2
Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3
Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 7
Controls & Features ................................................10
Operation ................................................................ 11
Maintenance & Adjustment .................................13
Service .....................................................................15
Troubleshooting .....................................................18
Replacement Parts .................................................19
Warranty ..................................................Back Cover
Table of Contents
Important Safe Operation Practices
2
3
Training
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for
future and regular reference and for ordering replacement
parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage them
quickly.
3. Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an
adult.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper
instruction.
5. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children and pets. Stop machine if anyone enters the
area.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, and other foreign
objects which could be tripped over and cause personal
injury.
2. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close fitting
slacks and shirt. Loose fitting clothes or jewelry can be
caught in moving parts. Never operate this machine in bare
feet or sandals.
3. Disengage clutch levers and shift (if provided) into neutral
(“N”) before starting the engine.
4. Never leave this machine unattended with the engine
running.
5. Never attempt to make any adjustments while engine is
running, except where specifically recommended in the
operator’s manual.
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care
in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when
gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.
Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck
or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.
WARNING! This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,
could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!
DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,
toes and feet. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING! Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling
4 Section 3 — important Safe operation practiceS
11. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating.
12. Disengage all clutch levers (if fitted) and stop engine
before you leave the operating position (behind the
handles). Wait until the tines come to a complete stop
before unclogging the tines, making any adjustments, or
inspections.
13. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
14. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
15. Use caution when tilling near fences, buildings and
underground utilities. Rotating tines can cause property
damage or personal injury.
16. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to till soil
too deep at too fast of a rate.
17. If the machine should start making an unusual noise or
vibration, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire
and ground it against the engine. Inspect thoroughly for
damage. Repair any damage before starting and operating.
18. Keep all shields, guards, and safety devices in place and
operating properly.
19. Never pick up or carry machine while the engine is running.
20. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the
manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.
21. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use
care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support for
assistance and the name of you nearest servicing dealer..
Maintenance & Storage
1. Keep machine, attachments and accessories in safe
working order.
2. Allow a machine to cool at least five minutes before
storing. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
3. Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at frequent
intervals to keep the machine in safe working condition.
Also, visually inspect machine for any damage.
4. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, stop the engine
and make certain the tines and all moving parts have
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
5. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of engine.
6. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
7. Follow this manual for safe loading, unloading,
transporting, and storage of this machine.
8. Always refer to the operator’s manual for important details
if the machine is to be stored for an extended period.
c. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment
from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground.
If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on
a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
f. Never fuel machine indoors.
g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine
is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two
minutes before refueling.
h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½
inch below bottom of filler neck to allow space for
fuel expansion.
i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5
minutes before starting the engine.
k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of grass,
leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris.
l. Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliances.
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact with
the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet.
2. Do not operate machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
3. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light.
Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the
handles.
4. Keep bystanders away from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.
5. Be careful when tilling in hard ground. The tines may catch
in the ground and propel the tiller forward. If this occurs,
let go of the handle bars and do not restrain the machine.
6. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing
gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do
not carry passengers.
7. Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on
hard or slippery surfaces.
8. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
9. Look down and behind and use care when in reverse or
pulling machine towards you.
10. Start the engine according to the instructions found in this
manual and keep feet well away from the tines at all times.
5Section 3 — important Safe operation practiceS
9. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
10. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for gas, oil,
etc. to protect the environment.
11. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
or 130 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.
Notice Regarding Emissions
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal
EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)
are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and
may include the following emission control systems: Engine
Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air
Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.
Spark Arrestor
WARNING! This machine is equipped with an
internal combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered,
brushcovered or grass-covered land unless the
engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any).
If a spark arrestor 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 arrestor for the muffler is available through your
nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
6 Section 3 — important Safe operation practiceS
Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol Description
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate
WARNING— ROTATING TINES
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate
hands and feet.
WARNING— ROTATING TINES
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate
hands and feet.
WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE
Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING— HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine
and muffler to cool before touching.
WARNING! Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and
follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Assembly & Set-Up
3
7
Contents of Carton
• One Tiller • One Handlebar Assembly • One Bottle Oil
• One Hardware Pack • One Operator’s Manual • One Engine Operator’s Manual
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.
Recommended Tools for Assembly
• Two ⁄” open-ended wrenches or sockets
• Scissors (to trim plastic ties)
• Tire pressure gauge
• Clean oil funnel
• Included bottle of oil
Contents of Hardware pack
• ⁄-18 Hex Lock Nut (2)
• ⁄-18 x .437 x .268 Shoulder Screw (2)
• .349 x .879 x .063 Flat Washer (2)
• .450 x 1.000 x .062 Belleville Washer (2)
Assembly
Unpacking Instructions
1. Remove any cardboard inserts and packaging material
from the carton. Remove any staples from the bottom of
the carton and remove the carton.
2. Cut the large, plastic tie strap that secures the transmission
tube to the shipping pallet. Leave the handlebars on top of
the tiller to avoid damaging any cables.
3. The hardware bag is inside the literature envelope. Check
the contents with the list above.
4. The tiller is heavy. You should not attempt to remove it
from the shipping platform until instructed to do so in
these steps.
Handle
1. Remove the handle by cutting any zip-ties that secure it to
the tiller frame.
2. Remove the star knob from the handle mount bracket. See
Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-1
3. Using the shoulder screws, hex lock nuts, flat washers and
belleville washers from the hardware pack, mount the
handle to the handle mount plate as shown in Figure 3-2.
Figure 3-2
8 Section 3— ASSembly & Set-Up
4. Gently lift the handlebar and place the handlebar brace in
the desired height position on the handle mount bracket
and secure it in place with the star knob removed in Step 2.
See Figure 3-2.
5. Locate the forward (black) and reverse (red) cables on the
right side of the handle. Remove any packaging material or
ties on the cables being sure not to damage them.
6. The forward (black) cable is routed up the back of the right
handle and and snapped into the cable mount bracket as
shown in Figure 3-3.
Red
Black
Red
Black
Figure 3-3
7. When the forward (black) cable is correctly mounted on
the cable mount bracket, install the z-fitting into the clutch
bail. See Figure 3-3.
8. The reverse (red) cable is routed up the right side of the
right handle and snapped into the cable mount bracket as
shown in Figure 3-3.
9. When the reverse (red) cable is correctly mounted on the
cable mount bracket, feed the cable through the slot in
the panel and then connect the z-fitting into the reverse
handle. See Figure 3-3.
10. Route the wire harness up the back of the handle and
connect the harness to the ON/OFF switch on the
underside of the panel. See Figure 3-4.
Figure 3-4
11. Route the tine engagement cable up the left handle,
through th eslot in the panel and hook it into the tine
engagement handle. See Figure 3-5.
Figure 3-5
12. When the cable is properly hooked into the handle, snap it
into the cable mount bracket as shown in Figure 3-5.
9Section 3 — ASSembly & Set-Up
13. Secure the wires and cables to the handles by using the
two cable ties from the hardware pack as shown in Figure
3-6.
Figure 3-6
14. Place the neutral handle into free wheel position and roll
the tiller off the crate. See the Operation section for more
information on placing the tiller in the free wheel position.
Set-Up
Handle
The handle should be adjusted so that when the tiller is digging
3-4” into the soil, the handle falls to about waste-high. star knob,
move the handle to the desired position and then lock into place
by tightening the star knob to secure the handle. See Figure 3-7.
Figure 3-7
Tire Pressure
Check the air pressure with a tire gauge. Deflate or inflate the
tires equally to between 15 and 20 PSI. DO NOT EXCEED 20 P.S.I.
NOTE: Be sure that both tires are inflated equally or the tiller will
pull to one side.
Gas & Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the
separate Engine Operator’s Manual packed with your tiller. Read
the instructions carefully.
WARNING! Use extreme care when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
Controls & Features
4
10
Clutch Bail
Reverse Handle
Neutral Handle
Shield Height Adjustment Bracket
Handlebar Height
Adjustment
Tines
Power Switch
Engine Controls
See the separate Engine Operator’s Manual for information and
functions of the engine controls.
Shield Height Adjustment Bracket
The shield height adjustment bracket is used to set the tilling
depth. To change the tilling depth remove the depth pin from
the bracket and lift up on the handle. Place the depth pin in the
desired hole and carefully lower the handle.
Handlebar Height Adjustment
The handlebar height adjustment is located in front of the tine
shield between the lower arms of the handles. The handle can be
placed in three different positions. To adjust the handle, loosen
the star knob, move the handle into one of the three available
positions and retighten the star knob to secure it into place.
Power Switch
The power switch is located on the right side of the
panel. It is used to stop the tiller/engine and must
be in the ON position to start the engine.
ONOFF
Neutral Handle
The neutral handle is located on the upper left handle. When the
neutral handle is in the forward (disengaged) position the tiller is in
neutral and the wheels are in “free wheel.” To engage the wheels
(forward or reverse), pull the neutral handle rearward into the
engaged position. The neutral handle will remain in the engaged
position until it is moved back into the free wheel position.
Reverse Handle
The reverse handle is located on the upper right handle. When the
reverse handle is pulled back into the reverse position, the tines and
wheels (if the the neutral handle is engaged) will move in reverse. To
activate the reverse movement of the tines only, engage the reverse
handle with the neutral handle in the free wheel position. When the
reverse handle is released, it will return to the forward (disengaged)
position and the tines and wheels will stop moving.
Clutch Bail
The clutch bail is located below the handles. When the clutch
bail is in the disengaged position the tines will not rotate. When
the clutch bail is pulled upward against the handles in the the
engaged position, the tines are engaged and will rotate forward
until the engine is stopped or the clutch bail is released. When
the neutral handle is also in the engaged position, this will allow
the tines and wheels to move forward.
Operation
5
11
Starting the Tiller
Pre-Start Checklist
With the spark plug wire disconnected from the spark plug,
make the following checks and perform the following services
before starting the engine.
1. Read the Safe Operation Practices and Controls & Features
Sections in this manual. Read the separate Engine Operator’s
Manual.
2. Check the machine for loose or missing hardware. Service
as required.
3. Check the engine oil level. See Engine Operator’s Manual.
4. Check that all the safety guards and covers are in place.
5. Check air cleaner and engine cooling system. See Engine
Operator’s Manual.
6. Attach the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
7. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline according to the directions
in the separate Engine Operator’s Manual. Follow all the
instructions and safety rules carefully.
WARNING! Never run the engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas. Avoid the engine muffler and nearby areas.
Temperatures in these areas may exceed 150° F.
Starting the Engine
1. Complete the “Pre-Start Checklist.”
2. Disengage the tines.
3. Flip the power switch into the ON position,
4. Procede with the engine starting instructions in your
Engine Operator’s Manual.
Stopping the Tiller
1. To stop the wheels and tines, release the forward clutch
bail or the reverse handle (whichever control is engaged)
and place the tine engagement handle in the disengaged
position.
2. To stop the engine place the power switch in the OFF position
and follow the instructions in your Engine Operator’s Manual.
Setting the Depth
To set the tilling depth, remove the depth pin from the shield
height adjustment bracket, move the tine shield into the desired
position and re-insert the depth pin. See Figure 5-1.
Figure 5-1
NOTE: The depth pin is keyed and will need to be turned to
remove and install into the shield height adjustment bracket.
Engaging the Drive & Tines
1. For forward motion of the tines:
a. Pull the clutch control bail up with the neutral handle in
the free wheel position, the reverse handle disengaged
and hold it against the handlebars. See Figure 5-2. To
stop the forward motion of the tines, release the bail.
Figure 5-2
12 Section 5— operation
2. For forward motion of the tines and wheels:
a. Engage the neutral handle and the clutch control
bail, with the reverse handle disengaged and the
tines and wheels will move forward. See Figure 5-3.
To stop the forward motion of the tines and wheels,
release the bail.
Figure 5-3
3. For reverse motion of the tines:
a. Pull the reverse handle back with the neutral handle
in the free wheel position and the clutch control
bail disengaged to reverse the tines. See Figure 5-4.
To stop the reverse motion of the tines, release the
reverse handle.
Figure 5-4
2. For reverse motion of the tines and wheels:
a. Engage the neutral handle and the reverse handle,
with the clutch control bail disengaged and the tines
and wheels will move in reverse. See Figure 5-5. To
stop the reverse motion of the tines and wheels,
release the reverse handle.
Figure 5-5
Maintenance & Adjustments
6
13
Maintenance Schedule
Check After
First 2 Hours
Before Each
Use
Every
5 Hours
Every
10 Hours
Every
30 Hours
Clean Engine
P
Check Drive Belt Tension
P P
Check Nuts and Bolts
P P
Lubricate Tiller
P
Check Gear Oil Level in Transmission
P
Check Tines for Wear
P
Check Air Pressure in Tires
P
WARNING! Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing
the machine, shut off the engine, wait for all moving
parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect the
spark plug wire and move the wire away from the
spark plug. Failure to follow these instructions can
result in serious personal injury or property damage.
Maintenance
Engine
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for all engine maintenance.
Tire Pressure
Check the air pressure in both tires. The air pressure should
be between 15-20 PSI. Keep both tires equally inflated to help
prevent machine from pulling to one side.
Hardware
Check for loose or missing hardware after every 10 operating hours
and tighten or replace — as needed — before reusing the tiller
Be sure to check the screws underneath the tiller hood that
secure the transmission cover and the Depth Regulator Lever to
the transmission.
Transmission Gear Oil
Check the transmission gear oil after every 30 hours of operation
or whenever you notice any oil leak. Operating the tiller when the
transmission is low on oil can result in severe damage.
To Check the Transmission Gear Oil Level:
1. Check the gear oil level when the transmission is cool. Gear
oil will expand in warm operating temperatures and this
expansion will provide an incorrect oil level reading.
2. With the tiller on level ground, place the depth pin in the
highest position.
3. Remove the oil fill plug from the transmission housing and
look inside the oil fill hole to locate the main drive shaft
situated below the hole. See Figure 6-1.
Figure 6-1
4. The gear oil level is correct if the gear oil is approximately
halfway up the side of the main drive shaft.
5. If the gear oil level is low, add gear oil as described next. If
the gear oil level is okay, securely replace the oil fill plug.
14 Section 6— Maintenance & adjuStMentS
6. If adding only a few ounces of gear oil, use API rated GL-4
or GL-5 gear oil having a viscosity of SAE 140, SAE 85W-140
or SAE 80W-90. If refilling an empty transmission, use only
GL-4 gear oil having a viscosity of SAE 85W-140 or SAE 140.
7. While checking frequently to avoid overfilling, slowly add
gear oil into the oil fill hole until it reaches the halfway
point on the drive shaft.
8. Securely replace the oil fill plug.
Lubrication
After every 10 operating hours, oil or grease the lubrication
described below. Use clean lubricating oil (#30 weight motor oil
is suitable) and clean general purpose grease (grease containing
a metal lubricant is preferred, if available).
• Remove the wheels, clean the wheel shaft and apply a thin
coating of grease.
• Grease the back, front and sides of the depth regulator
lever.
• Remove the tines and clean the tine shaft. Use a file or
sandpaper to gently remove any rust, burrs or rough spots
(especially around the holes in the shaft). Apply grease to
the ends of the shaft before installing the tines.
• Oil the threads on the handlebar height adjustment screws
and the handlebar attaching screws.
Off-Season Storage
When the tiller won’t be used for an extended period, prepare it
for storage as follows:
1. Clean the tiller and engine.
2. Do routine tiller lubrication and check for loose parts and
hardware.
3. Service the engine as instructed in the seperate engine
manual.
4. Engines stored between 30 and 90 days need to be treated
with a gasoline stabilizer such as STA-BIL® and engines
stored over 90 days need to be drained of fuel to prevent
deterioration and gum from forming in fuel system or on
essential carburetor parts. If the gasoline in your engine
deteriorates during storage, you may need to have the
carburetor, and other fuel system components, serviced or
replaced.
WARNING: Drain fuel only into an approved
container outdoors, away from an open flame. Allow
engine to cool. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition prior to draining fuel.
5. Store the tiller in a clean, dry area.
6. Never store the tiller with fuel in the 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.).
Se rvice
7
15
Belt Replacement
If the drive belt need to be replaced, it is best to replace both belts
at the same time. Use only a factory-authorized belt as an “over- the-
counter” belt may not perform satisfactorily. The procedure requires
average mechanical ability and commonly available tools.
To replace the Drive and Reverse belts, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the tiller is on a flat surface, with the engine
turned off and the spark plug wire unplugged and
grounded to prevent unintended firing of the engine.
2. Remove the belt cover as seen in “Figure 7-1”, by first
removing the two ⁄-20 hex washer screws and one flat
washer. Lift the belt cover up and away from the tiller and
set in a safe location until reinstallation.
Figure 7-1
3. Remove the four hex washer screws that secure the pulley
shield to the frame as seen in “Figure 7-2”, and remove the
pulley shield and set aside in a safe location until reinstallation.
Hex Washer
Screws
Figure 7-2
4. Remove the idler bracket extension spring, as pointed out in
“Figure 7-3”. It is recommended to use a pair of needle-nosed
pliers, and grab the spring by the end that hooks over the
frame. Simply grab it and pull it away from the frame, then
up wards and carefully relieve the tension of the spring.
Remove the
idler bracket
extension
spring
This belt should
be installed with
the V-side out
Figure 7-3
16 Section 7— Service
5. Remove the idler pulley bracket by removing the ⁄-24 hex
screw, flat washer and lock washer, as in “Figure 7-4”.
Remove the
idler pulley
bracket by
removing the
hex screw,
flat and lock
washers
Remove the
belt from the
idler pulley
by working it
under the belt
keepers.
Figure 7-4
NOTE: It will be necessary to remove the belt from around
the idler pulley by working it off the pulley and from
underneath each belt keeper.
6. Remove the flange nut securing the transmission drive
pulley, then remove the pulley along with the two belts.
See “Figure 7-5”.
Flange Nut
Remove pulley
with belts
V-side out
Figure 7-5
7. Replace the old belts with the new belts in the same order
they were removed. The longer belt (954-04091) belongs
closer to the engine (V-side out), with the shorter belt
(954-05069) positioned closer to the tines.
8. Reinstall the transmission drive pulley with the new belts.
9. Reassemble the tiller in the reverse order in which it was
disassembled.
NOTE: When reinstalling the belt cover, be sure to engage the
bail and hold it so that the drive belt is tight before attempting
to reinstall the belt cover. This will enable the belt to fall under
the belt keeping mechanism built into the belt cover. Failure
to do so could damage the belt and/or belt cover.
Tines
The tines will wear with use and should be inspected at the
beginning of each tilling season and after every 30 operating
hours. The tines can be replaced. Refer to the Illustrated Parts List
manual for part numbers and ordering instructions.
Tine Inspection
With use, the tines will become shorter, narrower and pointed.
Badly worn tines will result in a loss of tilling depth, and reduced
effectiveness when chopping up and turning under organic matter.
Removing/Installing a Tine Assembly & Tines
1. Remove the tine shield by removing the hex lock screw and
flat washers secruing it to the transmission on each side.
2. A tine assembly consists of a tine bracket and three tines.
There are two tine assemblies on the tiller a RH assembly
(Part No. 642-05032) and a LH assembly (642-05033).
NOTE: Marking the tines and taking note of the different
RH and LH assemblies will make re-installing the
assemblies properly easier.
3. To remove a tine assembly, simply remove the hex screw
and flange lock nut as seen in “Figure 7-6”. Remove the hex
screw and slide the assembly off the tine shaft.
Figure 7-6
4. Before reinstalling the tine assembly, inspect the tine
shaft for rust, rough spots or burrs. Lightly file or sand, as
needed. Apply a thin coat of grease to the shaft.
17Section 7 — Service
5. Install the tine assemblies on the proper tine shaft using
the hex screw and flange lock nut as seen in “Figure 7-6”.
6. To remove and individual tine from the assembly, remove
the tine assembly as instructed above and remove the
individual tine be removing the hex screw and hex lock nut
that secure it to the assembly.
NOTE: Like the assemblies, there are specific tines for both
the RH (Part No. 742-05076) and LH (742-05091) assemblies.
Be certain the tine is the same as the others on the
assembly.
Change Transmission Gear Oil
NOTE: The transmission gear oil does not need to be changed
unless it has been contaminated with dirt, sand or metal particles.
See an authorized service dealer to have the transmission gear oil
changed. Refer to the phone numbers on page 2 of this manual
to locate the nearest service dealer.
Troubleshooting
8
18
Problem Cause Remedy
Tines do not engage 1. Foreign object lodged in tines.
2. Tine hardware missing.
3. Pulley and idler not in correct adjustment.
4. Belt worn and/or stretched.
1. Dislodge foreign object.
2. Replace tine hardware.
3. Take tiller to authorized service dealer.
4. Replace belt.
Wheels do not engage 1. Nut and bolt missing
2. Belt worn and/or stretched.
1. Replace nut and bolt.
2. Replace belt.
Engine does not start 1. Power switch in OFF position. 1. Place the power switch in the ON position.
Replacement Parts
9
19
Phone (800) 828-5500 to order replacement parts or a complete Parts Manual (have your full model number and serial number ready).
Parts Manual downloads are also available free of charge at www.troybilt.com.
Component Part Number and Description
754-05069 Forward Belt, 4L x 25.4
754-04091 Reverse Belt, 3L x 29.125
642-05032 RH Tine Assembly
742-05076 RH Tine
642-05033 LH Tine Assembly
742-05091 LH Tine
746-05168 Neutral Cable
746-04413A Forward Cable
746-04414A Reverse Cable
629-04157 Wire Harness
634-04232 Tires, 13 x 5 x 6
MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR
GDOC-100023 REV. C
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Troy-Bilt LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United
States and/or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products
Limited with respect to new merchandise purchased and used
in Canada and/or its territories and possessions (either entity
respectively, “Troy-Bilt”).
This warranty is in addition to any applicable emissions warranty
provided with your product.
“Troy-Bilt” warrants this product (excluding its Belts, Transmission
and Attachments as described below) against defects in material
and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing
on the date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in materials
or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only apply if this
product has been operated and maintained in accordance with
the Operator’s Manual furnished with the product, and has not
been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident,
improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water,
or damage because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage
resulting from the installation or use of any part, accessory or
attachment not approved by Troy-Bilt for use with the product(s)
covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting
damage.
Belts are warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of
purchase.
Transmission — Troy-Bilt warrants the transmission (including
all gears, shafts and housings) against defects in material and
workmanship for the life of the tiller, to the original purchaser only,
commencing on the date of original purchase or lease.
Attachments — Troy-Bilt warrants attachments for this product
against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one
(1) year, commencing on the date of the attachment’s original
purchase or lease. Attachments include, but are not limited to items
such as: grass collectors and mulch kits.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service dealer.
To locate the dealer in your area:
In the U.S.A.
Check your Yellow Pages, or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at P.O. Box 361131,
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-866-840-6483,
1-330-558-7220 or log on to our Web site at www.troybilt.com.
In Canada
Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1, or call
1-800-668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdcanada.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following
cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable
manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one-
year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade
sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments,
deck adjustments, and normal deterioration of the exterior finish
due to use or exposure.
d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service
dealer.
e. Troy-Bilt does not extend any warranty for products sold or
exported outside of the United States and/or Canada, and their
respective possessions and territories, except those sold through
Troy-Bilt’s authorized channels of export distribution.
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine Troy-Bilt parts.
g. Transportation charges and service calls.
h. Troy-Bilt does not warrant this product for commercial use.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, applies
after the applicable period of express written warranty above
as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty,
whether written or oral, except as mentioned above, given
by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with
respect to any product, shall bind Troy-Bilt. During the period
of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement
of the product as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole
and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt shall
not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damage
including, without limitation, expenses incurred for substitute
or replacement lawn care services or for rental expenses to
temporarily replace a warranted product.
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.
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount
of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety
features of the product shall void this warranty. You assume the
risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to you and your property
and/or to others and their property arising out of the misuse or
inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the
original purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a
gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights which vary from state to state.
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to
obtain warranty coverage.
Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-866-840-6483, 1-330-558-7220
MTD Canada Limited - KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone 1-800-668-1238
