Poulan Tiller 433552 User Manual

IMPORTANT MANUAL  
DO NOT THROW AWAY  
OPERATOR'S MANUAL  
WARNING:  
Read this Manual and follow all Warnings  
and Safety Instructions. Failure to do so  
can result in serious injury.  
MODEL:  
VF550  
FRONT TINE TILLER  
ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION DURING OPERATION  
02.23.10 AP/TH  
Printed in the U.S.A.  
433552 Rev. 2  
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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:  
0.9 Quarts (0,85 L)  
Unleaded Regular  
FollowinstructionsunderMaintenanceandStorage”  
sections of this Manual.  
Oil (API-SG-SL):  
(Capacity: 20 oz./0.6L)  
SAE 10w-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 RJ19LM or J19LM  
(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 .................................13-14  
STORAGE.................................................................... 15  
TROUBLESHOOTING................................................. 16  
PARTS.....................................................................17-21  
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 ensure proper tightness.  
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL HANDLE  
(See Fig. 2 and 3)  
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY  
A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard  
wrench sizes are listed.  
CAUTION: Be careful of exposed  
staples when handling or disposing of  
carton material.  
(1) Utility Knife  
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).  
IMPORTANT:WHENUNPACKINGANDASSEMBLINGTILLER,  
BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRETCH OR KINK CABLE(S).  
Cut cable ties securing handle column.  
Remove all packing from carton.  
Remove lower handle column from carton.  
Position lower handle column between bent tubes,  
lining up holes as shown.  
FRONT  
Secure lower handle column using two (2) 4-1/2" car-  
riage bolts, two (2) washers and two (2) handle knobs.  
Tighten securely.  
LOWER HANDLE  
COLUMN  
LEFT  
RIGHT  
KNOBS  
WASHERS  
OPERATOR'S POSITION  
BENT  
TUBES  
BOLTS  
Fig. 2  
Fig. 1  
Remove upper handle column from carton.  
Routecable(s)asshownandslideupperhandlecolumn  
onto lower handle column.  
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK  
Secure upper handle column using two (2) 2-1/2" car-  
riage bolts and two (2) handle knobs. Tighten securely.  
Cut away carton.  
Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid. Remove tiller from  
skid by pulling backwards.  
(1) Washer  
(3) Handle Knobs  
UPPER  
HANDLE  
COLUMN  
Manual  
TINE  
BOLTS  
CONTROL  
(1) Carriage Bolt  
5/16”-18 unc x 4-1/2”  
CABLE  
(1) Clevis Pin  
(2) Carriage Bolts  
5/16”-18 unc x 2-1/2”  
(1) Hairpin Clip  
KNOBS  
Fig. 3  
4
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ASSEMBLY  
TO INSTALL DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 4)  
Remove screw(s) securing depth stake to skid and  
discard the screw(s).  
Slide depth stake down into transport arm track, lin-  
ing up a hole in the depth stake with hole in transport  
arm.  
Install clevis pin and hairpin clip.  
DEPTH  
STAKE  
CLEVIS PIN  
HAIRPIN CLIP  
Fig. 4  
TILLING WIDTH  
Tilling width may be adjusted to better handle your  
tilling conditions (See “TINE ARRANGEMENT” in the  
Service and Adjustments section of this manual.)  
TINE OPERATION  
Check tine operation before first use. (See “TINE  
OPERATION CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual.)  
5
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OPERATION  
KNOW YOUR TILLER  
READ THIS 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 meaning.  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL  
PRIMER  
RECOIL  
STARTER  
HANDLE  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
DEPTH STAKE  
Fig. 5  
MEETS ANSI SAFETY REQUIREMENTS  
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.  
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed and the depth at  
THROTTLE CONTROL - Controls engine speed.  
which the tiller will dig.  
PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the  
cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages tines in forward  
direction.  
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to start the engine.  
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.  
00155  
TILLING  
HOW TO USE YOUR TILLER  
Know how to operate all controls before adding fuel and  
oil or attempting to start engine.  
The speed and depth of tilling is regulated by the position  
of the depth stake.  
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. 6)  
TINES  
1. Release tine control to stop movement.  
ENGINE  
DEPTH STAKE (See Fig. 7)  
2. Move throttle control to "STOP" position.  
Adjust depth stake by removing the hairpin clip and clevis  
pin. Change depth stake to desired position. Replace the  
clevis pin and hairpin clip.  
TINE CONTROL  
“OFF” (UP) POSITION  
For normal tilling, set depth stake at the second or third  
hole from the top.  
TINE CONTROL  
“ON” (DOWN) POSITION  
DEPTH  
STAKE  
HAIRPIN  
CLIP  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
CLEVIS PIN  
Fig. 7  
TO TRANSPORT  
CAUTION: Before lifting or transport-  
ing, allow tiller engine and muffler to  
cool. Disconnectsparkplugwire. Drain  
gasoline from fuel tank.  
AROUND THE YARD  
Adjust depth stake so clevis pin is in bottom hole.  
Push tiller handles down, raising tines off the  
ground.  
Fig. 6  
TINE OPERATION (See Fig. 6)  
Push or pull tiller to desired location.  
Squeeze tine control to handle.  
AROUND TOWN  
Disconnect spark plug wire.  
Drain fuel tank.  
Transport in upright position to prevent oil leakage.  
7
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OPERATION  
IMPORTANT: WHENOPERATINGINTEMPERATURESBELOW  
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE  
32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GASOLINE  
TO HELP ENSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING.  
IMPORTANT: BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW DIRT TO  
ENTER THE ENGINE WHEN CHECKING OR ADDING OIL OR  
FUEL. USECLEANOILANDFUELANDSTOREINAPPROVED,  
CLEAN,COVEREDCONTAINERS. USECLEANFILLFUNNELS.  
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol  
or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture  
which leads to separation and formation of acids  
duringstorage. Acidicgascandamagethefuelsys-  
tem of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine  
problems,thefuelsystemshouldbeemptiedbefore  
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.  
SeeStorageInstructionsforadditionalinformation.  
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products  
in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.  
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL (See Fig. 8)  
1. Remove hangtag from engine.  
2. Theengineinyourunithasbeenshipped, fromthefac-  
tory, already filled with SAE 30 summer weight oil.  
3. With engine level, remove engine oil filler plug.  
4. Engine oil should be at "FULL" line on dipstick. If  
low, fill to "FULL" line. For approximate capacity, see  
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this  
manual.  
5. Reinstall engine oil filler plug.  
6. Check oil before each use. Add oil if needed.  
TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 9)  
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with oil, or it  
will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.  
CAUTION: KEEP TINE CONTROL IN “OFF”  
POSITION WHEN STARTING ENGINE.  
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.  
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine, a small  
amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of  
the product and should be considered normal.  
1. Make sure spark plug wire is properly connected.  
3. Place throttle control in “FAST” position.  
4. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times  
before trying to start. Use a firm push. This step is  
not usually necessary when starting an engine which  
has already run for a few minutes.  
OIL FILLER CAP  
5. Grasp recoil starter handle with one hand and grasp  
tiller handle with other hand. Pull recoil starter handle  
quickly. Do not let starter rope snap back.  
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat  
priming steps. In warmer weather over priming may cause  
flooding and engine will not start. If you do flood engine,  
wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not  
repeat priming steps.  
MAXIMUM UPPER LEVEL  
MINIMUM UPPER LEVEL  
RECOIL  
STARTER  
HANDLE  
Fig. 8  
THROTTLE  
CONTROL  
ADD GASOLINE  
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.  
PRIMER  
CAUTION: Do not fill above 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.  
SPARK  
PLUG  
Fig. 9  
8
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OPERATION  
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.  
4
3
2
1
TILLING HINTS  
CAUTION: Until you are accustomed  
to handling your tiller, start actual field  
use with throttle in slow position.  
5
6
7
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.  
Fig. 10  
If you are straining or tiller is shaking, the depth stake is  
not set properly in the soil being tilled. The proper setting  
of the 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).  
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".  
A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little effort from the  
operator.  
Youwillprobablynotneedtousethedepthstake.Begin  
by tipping the depth stake forward until it is held by the  
stake spring.  
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.  
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. 11).  
Soilconditionsareimportantforpropertilling.Tineswill  
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.  
You will find tilling much easier if you leave a row  
untilled between passes. Then go back between tilled  
rows. (See Fig. 10) 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 for shallow tilling when working ex-  
tremely hard soil or sod. Then work across the first  
cuts at normal depth.  
Fig. 11  
9
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MAINTENANCE  
MAINTENANCE  
SCHEDULE  
FILL IN DATES  
AS YOU COMPLETE  
REGULAR SERVICE  
SERVICE DATES  
Check Engine Oil Level  
Change Engine Oil  
3
1,2  
Oil Pivot Points  
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler  
Clean Air Cooling System  
Clean Air Filter  
2
2
Replace Air Filter  
Clean Area Around Muffler And Controls  
Replace Spark Plug  
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.  
3 - Initial oil change should be performed after first five (5) hours of operations.  
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS  
LUBRICATION CHART  
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.  
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to  
properly maintain your tiller.  
At least once a season, check to see if you should make  
any of the adjustments described in the Service and Ad-  
c TINE CONTROL  
justments section of this manual.  
d ENGINE  
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.  
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.  
3. Tiptilleronitssideasshownanddrainoilintoasuitable  
container. Rock tiller back and forth to remove any oil  
trapped inside of engine.  
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.  
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from tiller or side of engine.  
5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every  
few ounces to check the oil level with the dipstick.  
6. Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the  
dipstick. Wait a minute to allow oil to settle.  
°F  
°C  
7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the  
dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT over-  
fill, or engine will smoke heavily from the muffler on  
startup.  
104  
86  
68  
50  
32  
14  
-4  
40  
30  
20  
10  
0
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting  
engine.  
-10  
-20  
-30  
9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.  
AIR FILTER  
-22  
Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged  
by using a dirty air filter. Clean the element after every 25  
hours of operation or every season. Replace the air filter  
every season. Service air cleaner more often under dusty  
conditions.  
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT  
1. Remove screw.  
Fig. 12  
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.  
Change the oil after every 50 hours of operation or at least  
once a year if the tiller is not used for 50 hours in one year.  
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine  
and after each eight (8) hours of continuous use. Add SAE  
30 motor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug securely  
each time you check the oil level.  
2. Remove air cleaner carefully to prevent dirt from enter-  
ing carburetor.  
3. Take air cleaner apart and clean air filter element.  
4. Wash filter element in liquid detergent and water.  
5. Wrap filter element in cloth and squeeze dry.  
6. Lightlycoatfilterelementwithcleanengineoil.Squeeze  
in towel to remove excess oil. Do not saturate.  
7. Reassemble parts and put back on carburetor.  
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig. 13)  
NOTE: Before tipping tiller to drain oil, empty fuel tank by  
ASSEMBLE ONE OF THESE  
running engine until fuel tank is empty.  
LOW POINTS TOWARDS  
SCREW  
NARROW EDGE OF ELEMENT  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place  
wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.  
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.  
CUP  
BODY  
LIP  
ELEMENT  
ASSEMBLE SO LIP  
EXTENDS OVER  
EDGE OF AIR  
CLEANER BODY  
CONTAINER  
LIP WILL FORM  
PROTECTIVE SEAL  
WHEN COVER IS  
ASSEMBLED  
SPARK PLUG WIRE  
Fig. 13  
Fig. 14  
11  
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MAINTENANCE  
SPARK PLUG  
COOLING SYSTEM (See Fig. 15)  
Replacesparkplugsatthebeginningofeachtillingseason.  
Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in “PRODUCT  
SPECIFICATIONS” on page 3 of this manual.  
Your engine is air cooled. For proper engine performance  
and long life keep your engine clean.  
Remove blower housing and clean as necessary.  
Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.  
TRANSMISSION  
Your transmission is sealed and will not require lubrication  
unless serviced.  
BLOWER HOUSING  
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.  
COOLING  
FINS  
Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all foreign matter.  
Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline,  
oil, etc.  
Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax.  
MUFFLER  
Fig. 15  
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.  
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.  
TO CHECK TINE OPERATION  
TILLER  
Start engine, tip tines off ground by pressing handles  
down and engage tine control to start tine rotation.  
TINE ARRANGEMENT  
Youroutertinescanbeassembledinseveraldifferentways  
to suit your tilling or cultivating needs.  
Verify tines spin properly.  
Allow tines to rotate for five minutes.  
CAUTION:Tinesaresharp.Weargloves  
orotherprotectionwhenhandlingtines.  
TO REMOVE CLUTCH HOUSING/ENGINE  
ASSEMBLY (SEE FIG. 19)  
Drain engine oil and gasoline out of engine.  
NORMAL TILLING - 24" PATH (See Fig. 16)  
Remove (5) carriage bolts and (5) lock nuts attaching  
the clutch housing and tine shield to transmission.  
AssembleholesAintinehubstoholesBintineshaft.  
Remove clutch housing/engine assembly and lay on  
ground (engine is upside down).  
OUTER  
TINE  
CLEVIS  
PIN  
A
A
CARRIAGE  
BOLTS  
B
B
tine_4  
HAIRPIN CLIP  
INNER TINE  
Fig. 16  
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 22" PATH (See Fig. 17)  
AssembleholesAintinehubstoholesCintineshaft.  
A
C
A
C
tine_5  
Fig. 17  
Fig. 19  
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING - 13" PATH  
(See Fig. 18)  
Remove outer tines.  
tine_6  
INNER TINES ONLY  
Fig. 18  
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines, ensure right tine  
assembly (marked “R”) and left tine assembly (marked “L)  
are mounted to correct side of tine shaft.  
13  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
Replace belt and reinstall pulley, idler bracket, conduit  
TO REPLACE V-BELT (SEE Fig. 20 - 22)  
fitting, springs, and hardware in reverse order.  
Clutch housing/engine assembly must be removed to  
service belt. See "TO REMOVE CLUTCH HOUSINGI-  
ENGINE ASSEMBLY" in this section of manual.  
Reinstallclutchhousing/engineassembly,makingsure  
belt is inside belt guide stud.  
Check tine operation. See "To Check Tine Operation"  
in this section of manual.  
Using pliers, remove cable spring and return spring  
from pivot bracket.  
Remove plastic snap-in plug from clutch housing.  
Usingpliers,depressconduitfittingtabsandpullconduit  
fitting through hole in clutch housing.  
Pull cable spring and cable through snap-in plug hole  
in clutch housing.  
ENGINE  
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR  
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  
CLUTCH  
HOUSING  
BELT  
GUIDE  
STUD  
RETURN  
SPRING  
CABLE  
SPRING  
SNAP-IN  
PLUG  
IMPORTANT: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE GOVER-  
NOR,WHICHISFACTORYSETFORPROPERENGINESPEED.  
OVERSPEEDING THE ENGINE ABOVE THE FACTORY HIGH  
SPEED SETTING CAN BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THINK THE  
ENGINE-GOVERNED HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING,  
CONTACTYOURNEARESTAUTHORIZEDSERVICECENTER/  
DEPARTMENT, WHICH HAS THE PROPER EQUIPMENT AND  
EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS.  
TABS  
CONDUIT  
FITTING  
CABLE  
Fig. 20  
Remove bolt, washer, and lock nut attaching idler  
bracket to clutch housing.  
WASHER  
BOLT  
CLUTCH  
HOUSING  
SNAP-IN  
PLUG  
LOCK NUT  
Fig. 21  
Removebolt,washer,andlocknutattachingidlerpulley  
to idler bracket. Remove bushing from between idler  
bracket and clutch housing.  
BOLT  
IDLER PULLEY  
WASHER  
IDLER BRACKET  
BUSHING  
LOCK NUT  
Fig. 22  
14  
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STORAGE  
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage at the end of the  
OTHER  
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.  
Do not store gasoline from one season to another.  
Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.  
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.  
WARNING: Neverstorethetillerwithgasoline  
inthetankinsideabuildingwherefumesmay  
reach an open flame or spark. Allow the en-  
gine to cool before storing in any enclosure.  
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.  
TILLER  
Cleanentiretiller(SeeCLEANINGintheMaintenance  
section of this manual).  
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER TILLER WHILE ENGINE AND  
EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.  
Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt re-  
placement instructions in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual).  
TILLER HANDLE STORAGE OPTIONS  
The tiller handle assembly can be modified to allow for a  
variety of storage positions outlined below.  
Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this  
manual.  
Ensure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely  
fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage  
and wear. Replace if necessary.  
CAUTION: Do not start or operate tiller when  
handle is in any of these positions.  
Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand  
STORAGE POSITION: AGAINST ENGINE  
(See Fig. 23)  
lightly before painting.  
Unscrew top or bottom handle knob and washer, and  
remove top or bottom carriage bolt.  
ENGINE  
Rotate entire handle assembly about carriage bolt  
(pivot point) and lay handle against engine shroud.  
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 damage may occur.  
TOP  
KNOB  
TOP CARRIAGE BOLT  
Fig. 23  
Use fresh fuel next season.  
STORAGE POSITION: IN TRANSPORT ARM  
STORAGE FEATURE (See Fig. 24)  
NOTE: Fuel stablizer is an acceptable alternative in mini-  
mizing 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.  
Unscrew(2)handleknobsandremove(2)carriagebolts.  
Remove top handle assembly and place it in handle  
storage feature in transport arm.  
ENGINE OIL  
Drainoil(withenginewarm)andreplacewithcleanoil. (See  
BOTTOM  
HANDLE  
KNOB  
“ENGINE” in the Maintenance section of this manual.)  
CYLINDER(S)  
Remove spark plug.  
Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole into  
cylinder.  
TOP  
HANDLE  
KNOB  
Pull starter handle slowly several times to distribute  
oil.  
Replace with new spark plug.  
Fig. 24  
15  
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TROUBLESHOOTING  
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. Ensure 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.  
5. Loose spark plug wire.  
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
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. Ensure spark plug wire is seated properly on plug.  
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 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 depth stake.  
2. 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 is off pulley(s).  
1. Engage tine control.  
2. 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.  
16  
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PARTS AND SERVICE  
Thisproducthasbeenexpertlyengineeredandcarefullymanufacturedtorigidqualitystandards. Aswithallmechanical  
products, some adjustments or part replacement may be necessary during the life of your unit.  
For Parts and service, contact our authorized distributor: call 1-800-849-1297  
For replacement parts, have available the following information:  
a. Model Number/Manufacturer's I.D. Number  
b. Description of part.  
For Technical Assistance: call 1-800-829-5886  
NOTE: HOP provides parts and service through its authorized distributors and dealers; therefore, all  
requests for parts and service should be directed to your local dealer(s). The philosophy of HOP  
is to continually improve all of its products. If the operating characteristics or the appearance  
of your product differs from those described in this Manual, please contact your local dealer  
for updated information and assistance.  
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