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
•
Followinstructionsunder“Maintenance”and“Storage”
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.
•
Assembleholes“A”intinehubstoholes“B”intineshaft.
•
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)
•
Assembleholes“A”intinehubstoholes“C”intineshaft.
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(See“CLEANING”intheMaintenance
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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