Model#PTG1120R
Rear Tine Tiller
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Warning: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
support@pulsar-products.com
866-591-8921
STOP
DO NOT RETURN TO STORE!
HAVE QUESTIONS OR NEED SERVICE?
2
Table of Contents
Safety Information ................................ . . 2
Pre-Assembly .................................... . . 6
Planning Assembly ............................. . . . 6
Tools Required .................................. . . 6
Hardware Included ............................... . . 6
Package Contents ............................... . . 6
Assembly ............................. . . . ........ . 7
Operation ..................................... . . . . 9
Maintenance .................................... . . 15
Care, Cleaning and Storage ......................... . 19
Troubleshooting ................................. . . 20
Safety Information
GENERAL SAFETY
Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before
attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before operation. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
IMPORTANT: Indicates operation or maintenance
information which is important but not hazard-related.
NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which,
if not avoided, may result in property damage.
Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use
of this machine before operating it.
This machine is a precision piece of power equipment.
Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times.
Regularly inspect the tiller. Make sure parts are not bent,
damaged, or loose.
Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
Operate the unit only with guards, shields, and other safety
items in place and working correctly.
Service the unit only with authorized or approved replacement
parts.
Complete all unit maintenance and adjustments according to
the instructions in this manual.
To prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug
wire.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use
of the tiller before starting. Know how to stop the engine
quickly.
To help avoid tiller tines contact or a thrown object
injury, stay in operator zone behind handles and keep
children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from
tiller while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters area.
Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair
to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.
Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
pants and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine while barefoot, in sandals, slippery
or lightweight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
3
Safety (continued)
GENERAL SAFETY
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep
clear of discharge area at all times as the rotating tines
can cause injury.
Never operate the tiller without proper shields,
guards, control lever or other safety protective devices in
place and working.
Never operate the tiller with damaged safety devices.
Failure to do so, can result in personal injury.
Familiarize yourself with all the safety and operating decals
on this equipment.
Thoroughly inspect the area where the tiller is to be used
and remove all foreign objects. Your equipment can propel
small objects at high speed causing personal injury or
property damage.
Check that all nuts and bolts are tight and equipment is in
good condition before each use.
Never allow children or young teenagers to operate the tiller.
Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the tiller.
Do not operate the tiller while under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
The control lever is a safety device. Never attempt to
bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device
inoperative and may result in personal injury through
contact with the rotating tines. The control lever
must operate easily in both directions and automatically
return to the disengaged position when released.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never
run.
Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing
gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards
or traffic.
Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling. Always be sure
of your footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk;
never run. Never operate the tiller at high transport speeds
on slippery surfaces.
If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble.
Never leave the tiller unattended when the engine is running.
Stop the engine and make sure all moving parts have
stopped. Remove the wire from the spark plug.
Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
Do not run the engine indoors or inside a closed area. The
exhaust fumes are dangerous, containing CARBON
MONOXIDE, an ODORLESS AND DEADLY GAS.
Watch for holes, roots, bumps, or other rough ground. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
Always look behind and down and use caution when using
reverse or pulling the tiller towards you.
Never attempt to start the tiller unless both wheels are in the
locked position. This acts as a brake for the tiller.
Always start the tiller on the level surface.
Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal
injury.
When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains
could result.
Disengage clutch lever and stop engine before leaving the
tiller in operating position. Wait until the tines come to a
complete stop before removing debris or making any
adjustments to the tiller.
Do not attempt to till hard soil, till too deep or till at too fast
a rate that can overload the tiller.
Gasoline is extremely flammable, and gasoline vapors can
explode if ignited. Handle with care.
Use an approved container.
4
Safety (continued)
GENERAL SAFETY
□
□
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the tiller.
They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the control lever immediately and the
tine will stop rotating.
Do not till near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.
Keep children out of the tilling area and under watchful
care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
Be alert and turn tiller off if a child enters the area.
Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.
Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child who may run into the tiller.
Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can
suffer burns from a hot muffler.
Never allow children to operate this machine.
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.
Use only an approved gasoline container.
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.
CHILDREN SAFETY
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
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.
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.
Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will
accumulate in the area.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before
refueling.
Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1 inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.
Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.
Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before
starting engine.
Never store the machine or fuel container near an open
flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.
To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support
for assistance or the name of the nearest service dealer.
SAFETY WHILE SERVICING
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
5
Safety (continued)
GENERAL SAFETY
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
tines and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.
Check the tines and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect tines
for damage. Replace with the original equipment
manufacture’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual.
“Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment
specifications may lead to improper performance and
compromise safety!”
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the tiller for any damage.
Repair the damage before starting and operating the tiller.
Tiller components, guards and shields are subject
to wear and damage which could expose moving parts
or allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection,
frequently check components and replace immediately
with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!”
Do not change the engine’s governor setting or over-speed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.
Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks
or leaks. Replace if necessary.
Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.
Do not modify engine.
□
To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any
way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a
runaway engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds.
Never tamper with factory setting of engine governor.
WARNING: This machine 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 arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
6
Pre-Assembly
PLANNING ASSEMBLY
Place box on a level surface. Remove all items from box. Make sure all items listed on the package contents list are included and not
damaged.
TOOLS REQUIRED
PACKAGE CONTENTS
HARDWARE INCLUDED
NOTE: Hardware not shown to actual size.
Part Description Quantity
A
A
Tiller Body/Upper Handle 1
B Wheel 2
Part Description Quantity
E Tines
D
Tiller Protective Shield 1
2
C Depth Regulator 1
F
Bumper
1
G
Use And Care Guide
1
Part Description Quantity
AA Bolt M8x20
Bolt M10x25
8
BB
CC
Nut M8
4
4
Nut M10DD 2
Clevis PinEE 3
Cotter PinFF 3
Part Description Quantity
Spring Washer
GG
HH
Washer
4
8
Star KnobII 4
Bolt M8x50JJ 4
Wheel PinKK 2
G
Safety goggles
Adjustable Funnel
wrench
AA CCBB GG
HH
II
B
C
D
F
E
JJ KK
DD EE FF
7
Assembly
Assembling the Depth Regulator
□
□
Insert the depth regulator (C) through the protective
shields (D) opening into the top of the depth regulator
bracket with handle facing to the rear.
Insert depth regulator clevis pin (EE) through the depth
regulator bracket. Then insert the cotter pin (FF) to secure.
The top hole of the depth regulator tines should clear
the ground. See Figure 1-1.
□ Locate the plates with the pre-drilled holes on the rear part
of the tiller body. Align the protective shield (D) holes to the
plate holes. Insert M8x20 bolts (AA) with spring washers
(HH) and regular washers (GG) and tighten with a wrench.
See Figure 1-2.
3
1
Assembling the Protective Shield to
the Tiller Body
2
Assembling the Lower Handle
□ The lower handle is attached to the outside of the transmission
cover. Align the lower holes to the desired angle and
insert M10x25 bolts (CC) and M10 Nuts (DD) to secure the handle
on both sides. See Figure 1-3.
NOTICE: This tiller is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine.
Fill up the gasoline and oil BEFORE operating your machine.
NOTICE: There are 3 pre-drilled holes on the transmission cover to
choose from for angle height.
Figure 1-1
Figure 1-2
C
FF
EE
Depth Regulator
Bracket
D
D
AA
AA
GG
GG
HH
HH
AA
AA
HH
HH
GG
GG
Tiller Body
Transmission Cover
DD
DD
CC
CC
Lower
Handle
See Figure 1-3.
WARNING: Make sure the tiller protective shield is
installed in place before starting the machine.
8
Assembly (continued)
Assembling the Upper Handle
□
Align the upper handle pre-drilled holes to the lower
handle pre-drilled holes. Insert M8x50 bolts (JJ) through
the inside of the handle. Insert washers (GG) and hand
tighten with star knob (II). See Figure 1-4.
□
Insert the wheel (B) through the axle on the tiller body.
Then place the wheel pin (KK) through the hole on
wheel through the hole on the axle to secure the wheel
in place. See Figure 1-5.
4
Assembling the Wheels
5
□
Insert tines (E) on each side through the tine axle located on the
rear of the tiller. Align pre-drilled holes and insert clevis pin (EE)
then insert cotter pin (FF) to secure in place. See Figure 1-6.
Assembling the Tines
6
□
Insert the bumper (F) into the front end of the tiller body just
below the engine. Align the pre-drilled holes and insert M8x20
bolts (AA) and M8 nuts (BB) and tighten. See Figure 1-7.
Assembling the Bumper
7
Figure 1-4
Figure 1-6
Figure 1-7
Lower
Handle
Upper
Handle
II
JJ
GG
Tiller Body
Figure 1-5
Tiller Body
B
KK
Tiller Body
AA
BB
F
FF
E
EE
9
Operation
Adding Gas and Oil
□
□
Remove gas cap. Place funnel securely and add fuel.
Do not top off. Fuel tank capacity is approx. 1 gallon.
Secure the gas cap and wipe off any excess fuel.
See Figure 1-8.
□
□
□
Place the tiller on a level surface.
Remove the filler cap. Place the funnel securely and add oil.
Do not top off. Oil capacity is approx. .6 liters. Check
dipstick to confirm adequate amount of oil.
Secure the oil cap and wipe off any excess oil.
See Figure 1-9.
□
□
□
We recommend the use of 10W-30 oil. Other high-quality
detergent oils are acceptable if classified for service SF, SG,
SH. SJ or higher.
Do not use special additives.
Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for
the engine. Use the chart to select the best
viscosity for the outdoor temperature range expected.
1
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. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipes and any other sources of ignition.
GAS
IMPORTANT: Use only Regular Octane Fuel.
IMPORTANT: We recommend using 10W-30 Oil.
Figure 1-8
Figure 1-9
104
86
68
50
32
14
-4
-22
40
30
20
10
0
-10
-20
-30
°C°F
SAE 30
10W-30
SYNTHETIC 5W-30
5W-30
OIL
Operation (continued)
Controls and Features
RECOIL STARTER
PROTECTIVE SHIELD
FORWARD/REVERSE/SAFETY LOCK LEVERS
□
□
The recoil starter is attached to the right side of the upper
handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter
rope to start the unit.
The tiller shield is located in the rear of the tiller and
it is used to shield you from debris being thrown.
□
The forward/reverse lever located on the upper handle
controls the tillers direction. The safety lock ensures that
when using the tiller the operator does not accidently
start the forward or reverse action until they are ready
to operate the tiller.
ON/OFF SWITCH
□
The On/Off switch is needed to start and stop the tiller.
2
DEPTH REGULATOR
TINES
CHOKE LEVER
□
□
In hard compacted soil, it helps restrain the tiller's forward
motion. In looser soil, it controls how deeply the tines can dig
into the ground.
Tines are rotating metal blades that dig into the soil.
□
A carburetor choke lever engages or disengages the choke,
subsequentially adjusting the amount of air that is enabled
to flow through the intake of the carburetor.
OIL DIPSTICK
□
Located on the engine is used to fill oil and measure oil.
This tiller does not come with oil. Oil must be added before
operating it.
Tines
Protective Shield
Recoil Start
Choke Lever
On/Off Switch
Oil Dipstick
Depth Regulator
10
Reverse Lever
Forward Lever
Safety Lock
Operation (continued)
Pre-Start Inspection
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Make sure all safety guards are in place and all nuts
and bolts are secure.
Check oil level in engine crankcase. Add oil if necessary.
Check the fuel supply. Fill the fuel tank no closer
than 1 inch from top of tank to provide space for
expansion.
Be sure the spark plug wire is attached and the spark
plug is tightened securely.
Check position of wheels and wheel lockouts.
Check depth regulator lever position.
Examine underneath and around engine for signs of
oil or fuel leaks.
Inspect fuel hoses for tightness and fuel seepage.
Look for signs of engine damage.
Remove excessive debris from muffler area and
recoil starter.
Always set the wheels in tilling position before starting
engine.
Always put depth regulator lever in the transport position
before starting engine. Tines should clear ground.
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
The controls required to start and run the tiller are located
on the engine and are marked with the icon for choke, slow
and fast for the throttle, and on/off fuel valve. Location for
these controls can be found on the controls and features
page.
COLD STARTS
Move the fuel lever to the “open” position.
Move the choke lever to the full “open” position.
Move the On/Off switch to the “On” position
Pull starting rope out slowly one time and allow to return
slowly.
Pull starting rope out rapidly, to start the engine.
When the engine starts, gradually move choke lever to the
“closed” position and increase throttle speed.
RESTARTING A WARM ENGINE
Move the On/Off switch to the “start” position.
Pull starting rope out rapidly until engine starts. Allow rope
to return normally. Repeat until engine starts.
3
WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the engine is hot
or running. Always move outdoors to fill tank.
Starting the Tiller
5
11
CAUTION: Please do not start your tiller until you have
read the manual that came with your tiller, and the sections
in this manual tiller controls and safety. If you have read
these, follow the steps below to start your tiller. Always
perform this pre-start checklist before starting the engine.
DANGER: Always keep hands and feet clear of rotating
machine parts.
NOTICE: Restarting an engine that is already warm from previous
running does not normally require use of the choke.
Choke
Fuel Lever
Open Closed
OPENCLOSED
On/Off Switch
Operation (continued)
Shutting Down the Tiller
□
□
To stop the engine at any time, turn engine ON/OFF switch
to the off position. To stop wheels and tines at any time,
release drive safety control levers to neutral position.
Check oil level in engine crankcase. Add oil if necessary.
Make sure you return the choke lever to it’s original
position and you close the fuel lever.
□
□
□
□
□
Engages wheels and tines into forward.
Pushing down the drive safety control lever (FORWARD)
toward the handlebar engages the wheels and tines.
Releasing the lever stops the wheels and tines and brings
the tiller to a complete stop.
REVERSE LEVER
Engages wheels and tines into reverse.
Pulling the drive safety control lever (REVERSE) toward the
handlebar reverses tiller. Releasing the lever stops the
wheels and tines.
To unlock the forward and reverse handles first press the
handle lock and then press the handle.
6
Tilling
□
□
□
Adjust the depth regulator lever to desired tilling depth.
Insert the clevis (EE) and cotter pin (FF) to secure depth
regulator to desired depth. See Figure 1-10.
Move the choke control to the closed position.
Place the tiller in forward by pushing down on the drive safety
control lever (FORWARD)--this will engage the wheels and tines.
7
WARNING: Raise depth regulator up one hole at a time,
testing tiller operation after each raise. Raising depth
regulator too high can result in loss of control of tiller!
WARNING: Temperature of muffler and nearby areas
may exceed 150˚F. Avoid these areas. Do not move choke
control to stop engine, backfire or engine damage may
occur. To stop wheels and tines at any time, release drive
safety control levers to neutral position. Always release
drive safety control levers to neutral position AND STOP
THE ENGINE before adjusting the depth of the regulator lever.
WARNING:
Do not operate both “FORWARD” and
“REVERSE” drive safety control levers at the same time.
This information is provided here only to introduce the
controls. Do not start the engine at this time. Starting and
operating instructions are given on page 11. Please read
this section and all operating and safety instructions before
starting your tiller.
Drive Safety Control Levers
8
12
NOTICE: You can slow the tiller’s forward advance at any time
by putting slight downward pressure on the handlebars. You can stop
the tiller by releasing the drive safety control levers to the neutral
position.
Figure 1-2
Tiller Body
Figure 1-10
EE
FF
FORWARD LEVER
Forward
Reverse
Handle Lock
IMPORTANT: Practice operating the controls and
tiller with tines out of ground before beginning to till.
It is important that you know how to use the tiller
properly, keep control at all times, stop the tines and
wheels from turning, and stop the engine if necessary.
If you do not know how to do these things, read the
controls, adjustments and safety sections before
proceeding.
Operation (continued)
Wheel Lock Pins
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
PLACING WHEELS IN A TILLING POSITION
Remove the wheel pin (KK). Align hole in axle with hole in
wheel (B) hub.
Insert the wheel pin (KK) through holes, and fold the wheel
pin (KK) ring to secure pin to axle.
Firmly lock the wheel (B) and axle together before tilling.
TO PLACE WHEELS IN A FREE-WHEEL
POSITION
Remove the wheel pin (KK). Slide the wheel (B) inward
toward machine.
Insert the wheel pin (KK) in the axle only.
The wheel (B) should turn freely on the axle. See Figure 1-11
The ideal height of the handlebar varies with operator
height and the depth of tilling.
Unscrew nuts (DD) and remove top and bottom bolts (CC)
on each side of the lower handle.
Align lower handle to desired height holes on the
transmission cover mount.
Install bolts (CC) and nuts (DD). Retighten. See Figure 1-12
□
□
□
□
□
Proper belt tension is critical to good performance. After
1/2 hour of operation, all cables may have to be adjusted.
After using the tiller for the first time check tension after
every 2 hours of operation.
TO INCREASE BELT TENSION
Loosen upper jam nut. Turn the belt counterclockwise in
1/8” increments.
Tighten lower jam nut.
Check adjustment.
This procedure can be repeated until conduit adjustment bolts
are fully adjusted. If no more adjustment can be made, the belt
may have to be replaced. See Figure 1-13
9
Handle Height Adjustment
10
Belt Tension Adjustment
11
13
Jam Nut
Forward
Cable
Reverse
Cable
B
KK
Figure 1-11
Figure 1-12
Figure 1-13
Transmission Cover
DD
DD
CC
CC
Lower
Handle
Height Adjustment
Holes
Operation (continued)
Tilling Tips
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
The key to successful tilling is to begin with a shallow cut
on the first pass, and then work an inch or two deeper on
each successive pass.
Tilling depth will vary with ground conditions.
When beginning to till in unbroken ground or in extremely
hard soil, set the cleves pin in the highest hole of the depth
regulator. This will allow for shallow tilling. With the depth
regulator in this position, make several light passes over
the area to be tilled. Reset for deeper depths with successive
passes.
If tiller jumps or skids uncontrollably, lower the depth
regulator by placing the cleves pin in a higher hole. This will
allow for shallower tilling. Hold firmly to the handlebars to
control sudden lurches.
If weeds, tall grasses, vines, or other materials clog or jam
the tines, reverse the tiller to unwind vegetation.
Immediately release the drive control levers if the tines jam
or you strike a foreign object. With the drive control levers
in the neutral position, push throttle control to the stop
position to stop the engine. Disengage the spark plug wire.
When tines have stopped, remove foreign objects and check
for damage.
Plant rows on 20" - 22" centers for ease of turning.
Set the depth regulator lever with the detent pin in one
of the higher holes. This will allow for shallow cultivation
necessary to turn over weeds, and break up and aerate
the soil.
12
CULTIVATING
□
If operating equipment with engines regularly at altitudes over
5,000 feet, the carburetor’s air-fuel mixture will be too rich and
emmissions may increase. On engines not built for the United
States the carburetor can be adjusted to operate under this
condition. The carburetor should be returned to its normal setting
if regular operation is less than 5,000 feet. Contact your service
center to modify the carburetor.
HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION
14
Maintenance
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
The warranty on this tiller does not cover items
that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence.
To receive full value from warranty, operator must
maintain the string trimmer as instructed here.
Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine
warranty.
All adjustments should be checked at least once each
season.
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are
tight.
Good maintenance is your responsibility, poor maintenance
is an invitation to trouble.
Follow good shop practices.
Keep service area clean and dry.
Use adequate light for the job at hand.
Make sure the engine is off before you begin any
maintenance or repairs. This will eliminate several potential
hazards.
Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate
the engine to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Never operate the engine in a closed building.
Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.
Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you
have the tools and skills required.
To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when
working around gasoline.
Use only a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean
parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks and flames away from all fuel
related parts.
Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil (or
motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate
surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with
light oil.
Always use personal protection devices such as eye, hand and
hearing protectors when performing any service or
maintenance.
Frequently check tiller tines. They should be free of nicks and
cracks and securely fastened in place.
Periodically tighten all bolts, nuts, screws, and check that all
pins are properly installed to make certain the tiller is safe to
operate.
When completing maintenance or service, make sure all safety
guards and devices are installed before using the tiller.
Where replacement parts are necessary for periodic maintenance
and servicing, use only new, original replacement parts or their
equivalents for repair and replacement to restore your equipment
to original specifications.
The manufacturer and/or distributor will not be responsible for
injuries or damages caused by use of unapproved parts and/or
accessories.
A first aid kit should be kept readily accessible while performing
maintenance on this equipment.
Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.
15
Maintenance (continued)
□
□
Your tiller has been designed and produced by the industry’s leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment to provide you with
years of reliable operation. Keeping your tiller in top running condition will prolong its life, and help you obtain optimum performance.
Please read this normal care schedule, and note the recommended care operating intervals to extend the life of your tiller.
*Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
16
Before Each UseMaintenance Operation
Drive Belt Tension
Engine Oil
Air Filter
Tiller Transmission
Oil
Tire Pressure
Tine Shaft
Wheel Axle Shaft
First
Month or
20 Hours
Every
3 Months
or
50 Hours
Every
6 Months
or
100 Hours
Every
Year or
300 Hours
Check
Check Level
Change
Check
Clean
Replace
Check
Replace
Check
Clean
Lubricate
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√* √*
√ √
WARNING: Use only genuine replacement parts. Other
parts may damage the tiller or result in injury.
Maintenance (continued)
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
Remove spark plug wire and secure from spark plug.
See Figure 1-13
Remove belt guard.
Remove the forward belt from the forward engine pulley.
Gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley.
With the pulley turning, force the forward belt out of the
V-groove and slide the belt free of the engine pulley.
Pull the forward belt down and out of the way.
Remove the reverse belt from the reverse
engine pulley and gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate
the pulley.
With the pulley turning, force the reverse belt out of the
V-groove and slide the belt free from the engine pulleys and
reverse belt guides.
Pull belt down and away from the transmission pulley and
install new reverse belt.
Thread the belt up from bottom and place belt around
transmission pulley in the groove.
Place belt under reverse belt guides and gently pull the engine
recoil rope while forcing the belt over the edge of the engine
pulley into the V-groove.
Install new forward belt.
Place forward belt in the transmission pulley groove and gently
pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley while forcing the
forward belt into the V-groove. See Figure 1-14
Replace belt guard.
Attach spark plug wire.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Check oil level before each use or after every 8 hours of
operation.
Change oil after first 5-8 hours of operation. Change oil while
engine is warm. Refill with new oil of recommended grade.
Check spark plug yearly or every 100 hours of operation.
Service air cleaner.
Keep engine and parts clean.
Check engine and equipment often for loose nuts and bolts,
keep these items tightened.
The following information will help you make the necessary
checks and perform the procedures required to follow the
normal care recommendations made for your tiller.
17
Changing Forward/Reverse Belt
1
WARNING: To prevent accidental starting. The engine
must be turned off and cool. The spark plug wire must be
removed and secured from spark plug before checking and
adjusting engine or equipment.
Spark Plug Wire
See Figure 1-13
Engine Pulley
Forward Belt
Reverse Belt
Transmission
Pulley
Reverse Belt Idler
Forward Belt Idler
See Figure 1-14
Maintenance (continued)
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
CHECK OR FILL ENGINE CRANKCASE
Add oil. Do not overfill. Use a clean, high quality detergent
oil. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Oil level must be full.
Check the oil level by removing oil fill plug. Oil level should
be up to the bottom of the fill plug opening.
Always check oil level before starting engine.
CHECK THE TILLER TRANSMISSION OIL
Check the oil level annually. To check the oil level please
do the following.
Move tiller to level ground.
Remove oil level dipstick located between the handlebar
mounts on the engine mount.
If the oil level is low according to the dipstick, add oil.
Replace oil level dipstick in the filler hole. See Figure 1-15
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
Recommended tire pressure is 20 PSI. If tires do not have equal
pressure, the tiller will pull to one side.
LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication of moving mechanical parts is critical for
proper care and maintenance. Oil the moving parts shown at
10 hour intervals using a 30 weight oil.
CLEAN TINE AXLE SHAFT
Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
Remove spark plug wire and secure from spark plug.
Tip the tiller forward. Block the tiller in position so that it rests
on the engine mount and the tines are exposed.
Remove all vegetation, string, wire, and other material that may
have accumulated on the axle between the inside set of tines
and the seal on the transmission housing.
Tip the tiller back to a level position.
Replace spark plug wire.
18
See Figure 1-15
IMPORTANT: Engine is shipped from factory without oil. You
must add engine oil before starting engine.
IMPORTANT: The tiller transmission is shipped from
the factory with the proper amount of oil. When
replacing oil, the tiller transmission holds
27-30 ounces. Do not overfill. Check the oil level
annually.
NOTICE: The front wheel transmission and rear tine
transmission share the oil reservoir. When you add oil to the
front transmission, you must wait a short period of time for
the oil to flow to the rear. Then measure with dipstick to
confirm that there is adequate oil.
.
Transmission Plate
Gear Case Dipstick
Care, Cleaning and Storage
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Protect wheels and axles from rust by removing the lockpin
and sliding the wheel off the hub.
Coat the axles lightly with axle grease.
Slide wheel back on hub and insert lock pin.
Drain fuel system completely or add fuel stabilizer to prevent
fuel from gumming up during extended storage period.
While engine is still warm, drain the oil from the engine.
Refill with fresh oil of the recommended grade.
Clean external surfaces, engine and cooling fan.
Remove spark plug, pour one ounce of SAE 30 oil into spark
plug hole.
Plug hole and pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil evenly
in cylinder head area.
Reinstall spark plug.
Transport unit to a suitable storage location. If you have
chosen to use a fuel stabilizer and have not drained the fuel
system, follow all safety instructions storage precautions in
this manual to prevent the possibility of fire from the ignition
of gasoline fumes. Remember, gasoline fumes can travel to
distant sources of ignition and ignite, causing risk of
explosion and fire.
If there is any possibility of unauthorized use or tampering,
remove the spark plug and store it in a safe place before
storing the rototiller unit.
Be sure to plug the spark plug hole to prevent foreign
material from entering.
19
Follow the steps below to prepare your tiller for storage.
WARNING: Do not store tiller in an unvetilated area where
fuel fumes may reach flame, sparks, pilot lights or an ignited
object. Drain fuel outdoors away from any ignition sources.
Use only approved fuel containers.
Troubleshooting
Problem SolutionCause
The engine is difficult
to start.
□
Add fresh fuel.
Turn the engine switch on.
Move the choke lever to the ON position.
Attach spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Remove spark plug and inspect. Replace if necessary.
Take the tiller to an authorized service center to clean
the carburetor.
Remove and clean the air filter.
Drain and clean the fuel tank. Fill with fresh fuel.
Out of fuel.
The engine switch is Off.
The engine is not primed.
The spark plug wire is disconnected.
The spark plug is fouled.
The carburetor is dirty.
The air filter is clogged.
The fuel is contaminated.
□
Engine Problems
The engine smokes
excessively, runs very
“rough,” runs
erratically, or cannot
maintain full speed.
□
Add engine oil.
Check engine oil, add or drain engine oil if necessary.
Remove spark plug, inspect or replace if necessary.
Remove and clean air filter.
Drain and clean the fuel tank. Fill with fresh fuel.
Take the tiller to an authorized service center to clean
the carburetor.
No Engine Oil.
Engine oil is not at proper level.
The spark plug is fouled.
The air filter is clogged.
The fuel is contaminated.
The carburetor is out of adjustment.
□
Excessive vibration and
noise.
□
Tighten all fasteners.
Refer to engine solutions (above).
Normally due to belt/pulley break in period.
Refer to belt tension adjustment section.
Loose parts.
Engine problems (above).
Abnormal noise or squeal coming from
belt drive.
□
Tines will not rotate.
□
□
□
□
Remove debris from around tines.
Replace tine bolts and nuts.
Refer to “Belt Tension Adjustment” section to
decrease belt tension.
Replace drive belts.
Debris interfering with the tines.
Tines are loose.
Improper drive cable adjustment.
Damaged drive belts.
□
□
□
□
Tines continue to
rotate when drive
lever is not engaged.
□
Refer to “Belt Tension Adjustment” Section to
decrease belt tension.
Replace drive belts.
Improper drive cable adjustment.
Damaged drive belts.
□
Engine will not stop.
□
Replace the switch.Check the switch.
□
Tines will not cut
properly.
□
Refer to “Install the Tines” Section.The tines assembled incorrectly.
□
Frequent engine
stalling.
□
□
Till at a moderate pace. Make multiple passes.
Refer to engine solutions (above).
Excessive tilling speed / depth.
Engine problems (above).
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□□
□□
□□
□□
□□
□
□
□
□
20
