Sears Tiller 91729149 User Guide

Owner’s Manual  
FRONT TINE TILLER  
5.5 HP  
24 Inch Tine Width  
Model No.  
917.29149  
This product has a low emission engine which operates  
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the  
engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.  
IMPORTANT:  
Read and follow all Safety  
Rules and Instructions before  
operating this equipment.  
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.  
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SAFETY RULES  
• Use extension cords and receptacles  
• Do not overload the machine capacity  
by attempting to till too deep at too fast  
a rate.  
• Never operate the machine at high  
speeds on slippery surfaces. Look be-  
hind and use care when backing.  
• Never allow bystanders near the unit.  
• Use only attachments and accessories  
approved by the manufacturer of the  
tiller.  
as specified by the manufacturer for all  
units with electric drive motors or elec-  
tric starting motors.  
• Never attempt to make any adjustments  
while the engine (motor) is running (ex-  
cept where specifically recommended  
by manufacturer).  
OPERATION  
• Do not put hands or feet near or under  
rotating parts.  
• Never operate the tiller without good vis-  
ibility or light.  
• Exercise extreme caution when operat-  
ing on or crossing gravel drives, walks,  
or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards  
or traffic. Do not carry passengers.  
• After striking a foreign object, stop the  
engine (motor), remove the wire from  
the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the  
tiller for any damage, and repair the  
damage before restarting and operating  
the tiller.  
• Be careful when tilling in hard ground.  
The tines may catch in the ground and  
propel the tiller forward. If this occurs,  
let go of the handlebars and do not  
restrain the machine.  
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE  
• Keep machine, attachments, and ac-  
cessories in safe working condition.  
• Check shear pins, engine mounting  
bolts, and other bolts at frequent inter-  
vals for proper tightness to be sure the  
equipment is in safe working condition.  
• Never store the machine with fuel in the  
fuel tank inside a building where ignition  
sources are present, such as hot water  
and space heaters, clothes dryers, and  
the like. Allow the engine to cool before  
storing in any enclosure.  
• Exercise caution to avoid slipping or fall-  
ing.  
• If the unit should start to vibrate ab-  
normally, stop the engine (motor) and  
check immediately for the cause. Vibra-  
tion is generally a warning of trouble.  
• Stop the engine (motor) when leaving  
the operating position.  
Take all possible precautions when leav-  
ing the machine unattended. Disengage • Always refer to the operator’s guide  
the tines, shift into neutral, and stop the  
engine.  
• Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting,  
shut off the engine and make certain all  
moving parts have stopped. Disconnect  
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire  
instructions for important details if the  
tiller is to be stored for an extended  
period.  
Look for this symbol to point out  
important safety precautions. It means  
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR  
away from the plug to prevent accidental SAFETY IS INVOLVED.  
starting. Disconnect the cord on electric  
motors.  
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark  
plug wire and place wire where it cannot  
contact spark plug in order to prevent acci-  
dental starting when setting up, transport-  
ing, adjusting or making repairs.  
• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust  
fumes are dangerous.  
• Never operate the tiller without proper  
guards, plates, or other safety protective  
devices in place.  
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its  
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-  
nents contain or emit chemicals known to  
the State of California to cause cancer and  
birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
• Keep children and pets away.  
3
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In the state of California the above is  
required by law (Section 4442 of the  
California Public Resources Code). Other  
states may have similar laws. Federal  
laws apply on federal lands. A spark ar-  
rester for the muffler is available through  
your nearest Sears service center (See  
REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Gasoline  
Capacity:  
3 Qts  
Unleaded Regular  
Oil(API-SG-SL):  
(Capacity: 20 oz.)  
SAE 30  
(Above 32°F)  
SAE 5w-30  
(Below 32°F)  
Spark Plug :  
(Gap: .030")  
Champion  
RC12YC  
REPAIR PROTECTION  
AGREEMENTS  
Congratulations on making a smart pur-  
chase.Your new Craftsman® product is  
designed and manufactured for years of  
dependable operation. But like all products,  
it may require repair from time to time.That’s  
when having a Repair Protection Agreement  
can save you money and aggravation.  
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement  
now and protect yourself from unexpected  
hassle and expense.  
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase  
of a Sears Tiller. It has been designed,  
engineered and manufactured to give you  
the best possible dependability and per-  
formance.  
Should you experience any problems you  
cannot easily remedy, please contact a  
Sears or other qualified Service Center.  
We have competent, well-trained techni-  
cians and the proper tools to service or  
repair this unit.  
Please read and retain this manual. The  
instructions will enable you to assemble  
and maintain your tiller properly. Always  
observe the “SAFETY RULES”.  
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 cor-  
rect tools as necessary to insure proper  
tightness.  
Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:  
Expert service by our 12,000 profe-  
sional repair specialists.  
Unlimited service and no charge for  
parts and labor on all covered repairs.  
Product replacement if your covered  
product can’t be fixed.  
Discount of 10% from regular price of  
service and service-related parts not  
covered by the agreement; also, 10%  
off regular price of preventive mainte-  
nance check.  
Fast help by phone – phone support  
from a Sears technician on products  
requiring in-home repair, plus conve-  
nient repair scheduling.  
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES  
• Read and observe the safety rules.  
• Follow a regular schedule in main-  
taining, caring for and using your tiller.  
• Follow the instructions under the “Main-  
tenance” and “Storage” sections of this  
Owner’s Manual.  
Once you purchase the Agreement, a  
simple phone call is all that it takes for you  
to schedule service.You can call anytime  
day or night, or schedule a service ap-  
pointment online.  
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair  
specialists, who have access to over 4.5  
million quality parts and accessories.  
That’s the kind of professionalism you can  
count on to help prolong the life of your  
new purchase for years to come. Purchase  
your Repair Protection Agreement today!  
Some limitations and exclusions apply.  
For prices and additional information  
call 1-800-827-6655.  
WARNING: 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 or state laws (if  
any). If a spark arrester is used, it should  
be maintained in effective working order  
by the operator.  
SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE  
For Sears professional installation of home  
appliances, garage door openers, water  
heaters, and other major home items, in  
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®  
4
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ACCESSORIES  
These accessories were available when the tiller was produced. They are also available  
at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Some of these accessories may not  
apply to your tiller.  
ENGINE  
SPARK PLUG  
MUFFLER  
AIR FILTER  
GAS CAN  
ENGINE OIL  
STABILIZER  
TILLER MAINTENANCE  
BELT  
TINES  
SHEAR PIN  
HAIRPIN CLIP  
UNASSEMBLED PARTS  
CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK  
(2) Carriage Bolts  
5/16-18 UNC x 2-1/2  
(2) Flange  
Locknuts  
5/16-18 UNC  
(1) Manual  
(2) Hex Bolt  
5/16-18 x 1-1/4  
(2) Hex Nut  
5/16-18  
(2) Lock  
Washer  
5/16  
(1) Bottle  
Engine Oil  
5
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ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION  
Your new tiller has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left  
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tiller  
all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools  
as necessary to insure proper tightness.  
Tine  
Control  
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR  
ASSEMBLY  
Tine  
A socket wrench set will make assembly  
Control  
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.  
Cable  
Handle  
Column  
Handle  
Mount  
(1) Utility knife  
(2) 1/2 Wrench  
OPERATOR’S POSITION  
When right or left hand is mentioned in this  
manual, it means when you are in the oper-  
ating position (standing behind tiller handles).  
Carriage  
Bolt  
Front  
Flange  
Locknut  
INSTALL DEPTH STAKE  
ASSEMBLY  
1. Loosen nut “A”.  
Left  
Right  
2. Insert stake support between engine  
bracket halves with stake spring down.  
3. Bolt stake support to engine brackets  
with bolts, lock washers and nuts.  
Tighten securely. Tighten nut “A”.  
4. Depth stake must move freely. If it does  
not, loosen support bolt.  
Operator’s Position  
Engine Bracket Halves  
Nut “A”  
UNPACK CARTON & INSTALL  
HANDLE  
CAUTION: Be careful of exposed sta-  
ples when handling or disposing of carton-  
ing material.  
Depth Stake Support  
Depth  
Stake  
Support Bolt  
IMPORTANT:When unpacking and assem-  
bling tiller, be careful not to stretch or kink  
cable(s).  
Stake Spring  
Hex Bolts, Lock Washers,  
and hex Nuts  
1. Cut cable ties securing handle column.  
2. Route cable(s) as shown and slide  
handle column onto handle mount.  
3. Remove all packing from carton.  
4. Secure handle column using two (2)  
carriage bolts and two (2) flange lock-  
nuts. Tighten securely.  
HANDLE HEIGHT  
• Handle height may be adjusted to better  
suit operator. (See “HANDLE HEIGHT”  
in the Service and Adjustments section  
of this manual).  
TILLING WIDTH  
5. Cut away carton.  
• Tilling width may be adjusted to better  
handle your tilling conditions (See “TINE  
ARRANGEMENT” in the Service and  
Adjustments section of this manual).  
6. Route tine control cable(s) through  
plastic cable clip on handle mount.  
NOTE: Cables must not touch the muffler.  
7. Cut cable ties securing tiller to skid.  
Remove tiller from skid by pulling back-  
wards.  
TINE OPERATION  
• Check tine operation before first use.  
(See “TINE OPERATION CHECK” in the  
Service and Adjustments section of this  
manual).  
8. Remove screws securing depth stake  
to skid and discard the screws.  
6
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OPERATION  
KNOWYOUR TILLER  
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR  
TILLER  
Compare the illustrations with your tiller to familiarize yourself with the locations of var-  
ious controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.  
Forward Tine  
Control  
Choke Control  
Throttle Control  
Tine Shield  
Depth  
Stake  
Recoil Starter  
Handle  
Tines  
Our tillers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.  
CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting  
a cold engine.  
DEPTH STAKE - Controls forward speed  
and the depth at which tiller will dig.  
FORWARD TINE CONTROL - Engages  
tines in forward direction.  
RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Used to  
start the engine.  
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control  
engine speed.  
7
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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 standard  
safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.  
00155  
HOW TO USEYOUR TILLER  
Know how to operate all controls before  
adding fuel and oil or attempting to start  
engine.  
WHEELS  
Adjust wheels by removing the hairpin clip  
and clevis pin. Change wheel position.  
Replace the hairpin clip and clevis pin.  
• For normal tilling, set wheels at the  
second or third hole from the top.  
STOPPING  
TINES  
• Release tine control to stop movement.  
ENGINE  
• Move throttle control to “STOP” position.  
NOTE: Never use choke to stop engine.  
Hairpin Clip and  
Clevis Pin  
Tine Control  
“Off” (UP) Position  
Depth  
Stake  
Stake  
Spring  
Wheel  
TO TRANSPORT  
CAUTION: Before lifting or transporting,  
allow tiller engine and muffler to cool. Dis-  
connect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline  
from fuel tank.  
Throttle  
Control  
Choke  
Control  
AROUND THEYARD  
1. Tip depth stake forward until it is held  
by the stake spring.  
2. Push tiller handles down, raising tines  
off the ground.  
3. Push or pull tiller to desired location.  
AROUND TOWN  
TINE OPERATION  
• Squeeze tine control to handle.  
TILLING  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire.  
2. Drain fuel tank.  
The speed and depth of tilling is regulated  
by the position of the depth stake and  
wheel height.  
3. Transport in upright position to prevent  
oil leakage.  
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.  
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE  
IMPORTANT: Be very careful not to allow  
dirt to enter the engine when checking or  
adding oil or fuel. Use clean oil and fuel  
and store in approved, clean, covered  
containers. use clean fill funnels.  
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL  
DEPTH STAKE  
1. Remove hangtag from engine.  
Adjust depth stake by removing the hairpin 2. With engine level, remove engine oil  
clip and clevis pin. Change depth stake  
to desired position. Replace the clevis pin  
and hairpin clip.  
• For normal tilling, set depth stake at the  
second or third hole from the top.  
filler plug.  
3. Fill engine with oil to point of over-  
fl o w ing. For approximate capacity see  
“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” on  
page 4 of this manual. All oil must meet  
A.P.I. Service Classification SG-SL.  
8
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4. Tilt tiller back on its wheels and then  
re-level.  
5. With engine level, refill to point of over-  
fl o w ing if necessary. Replace oil filler  
plug.  
• For cold weather operation you should  
change oil for easier starting (See “OIL  
VISCOSITY CHART” in the Mainte-  
nance section of this manual).  
To change engine oil, see the Mainte-  
nance section of this manual.  
TO START ENGINE  
CAUTION: Keep tine control in “OFF”  
position when starting engine.  
When starting engine for the first time or  
if engine has run out of fuel, it will take  
extra pulls of the recoil starter to move fuel  
from the tank to the engine.  
1. Make sure spark plug wire is properly  
connected.  
2. Place throttle control in “FAST” posi-  
tion.  
3. Move choke control to full “CHOKE”  
position. Grasp recoil starter handle  
with one hand and grasp tiller handle  
with other hand. Pull rope out slowly  
until engine reaches start of compres-  
sion cycle (rope will pull slightly harder  
at this point).  
Oil Filler  
Oil Level  
Plug  
4. Pull recoil starter handle quickly. Do  
not let starter handle snap back  
against starter. Repeat if necessary.  
NOTE: If engine fires but does not start,  
move choke control to half choke posi-  
tion. Pull recoil starter handle until engine  
starts.  
5. When engine starts, slowly move  
choke control to “RUN” position as  
engine warms up.  
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 depos-  
its and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil  
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quan-  
tities that can be used within 30 days to  
assure fuel freshness.  
NOTE: A warm engine requires less  
choking to start.  
CAUTION: Fill to within 1/2 inch of top  
of fuel tank to prevent spills and to allow  
for fuel expansion. If gasoline is acci-  
dentally spilled, move machine away from  
area of spill. Avoid creating any source of  
ignition until gasoline vapors have disap-  
peared.  
Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not  
store, spill or use gasoline near an open  
flame.  
IMPORTANT: When operating in temper-  
atures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean  
winter grade gasoline to help insure good  
cold weather starting.  
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called  
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can  
attract moisture which leads to separa-  
tion and formation of acids during storage.  
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system  
of an engine while in storage. To avoid  
engine problems, the fuel system should  
be emptied before storage of 30 days  
or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the  
engine and let it run until the fuel lines  
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel  
next season. See Storage Instructions for  
additional information. Never use engine  
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel  
tank or permanent damage may occur.  
6. Move throttle control to desired running  
position.  
7. Allow engine to warm up for a few  
minutes before engaging tines.  
NOTE: If at a high altitude (3000 feet) or  
in cold temperatures (below 32°F), the  
carburetor fuel mixture may need to be  
adjusted for best engine performance.  
See “TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the  
Service and Adjustments section of this  
manual.  
NOTE: If engine does not start, see trou-  
bleshooting points.  
Spark Plug  
Throttle  
Control  
Choke  
Control  
Recoil Starter  
9
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You will find tilling much easier if you  
leave a row untilled between passes.  
Then go back between tilled rows There  
are two reasons for doing this. First,  
wide turns are much easier to negoti-  
ate than about-faces. Second, the tiller  
won’t be pulling itself, and you, toward  
the row next to it.  
• Set depth stake and wheel height for  
shallow tilling when working extremely  
hard soil or sod. Then work across the  
first cuts at normal depth.  
BREAKING INYOUR TILLER  
Break-in your belt(s), pulleys and tine con-  
trol 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.  
• Check tine operation and adjust if  
necessary. See “TINE OPERATION  
CHECK” in the Service and Adjustments  
section of this manual.  
TILLING HINTS  
CAUTION: Until you are accustomed to  
handling your tiller, start actual field use  
with throttle in slow position.  
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.  
4
3
2
1
If you are straining or tiller is shaking,  
the wheels and depth stake are not set  
properly in the soil being tilled. The proper  
setting of the wheels and depth stake is  
through trial and error and depends upon  
the soil condition. (The harder or wetter  
the ground, the slower the engine and tine  
speed needed. Under these poor condi-  
tions, at fast speed the tiller will run and  
jump over the ground).  
5
6
7
CULTIVATING  
Cultivating is destroying the weeds be-  
tween rows to prevent 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".  
You will probably not need to use the  
depth stake. Begin by tipping the depth  
stake forward until it is held by the stake  
spring.  
A properly adjusted tiller will dig with little  
effort from the operator.  
• Tilling is digging into, turning over, and  
breaking up packed soil before planting.  
Loose, unpacked soil helps root growth.  
Best tilling depth is 4"-6". A tiller will  
also clear the soil of unwanted vegeta-  
tion. The decomposition of this vegeta-  
ble matter enriches the soil. Depending  
on the climate (rainfall and wind), it may  
be advisable to till the soil at the end of  
the growing 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.  
• Soil conditions are important for proper  
tilling. Tines will not readily penetrate  
dry, hard soil which may contribute to  
excessive bounce and difficult handling  
of your tiller. Hard soil should be mois-  
tened before tilling; however, extremely  
wet soil will “ball-up” or clump during till-  
ing. 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.  
10  
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MAINTENANCE  
MAINTENANCE  
SCHEDULE  
FILL IN DATES  
AS YOU COMPLETE  
REGULAR SERVICE  
SERVICE DATES  
BEFORE EEAVCEHRUYS5EHEOVEURYS 25EHVOEURRYS50 HOURS  
Check Engine Oil Level  
Change Engine Oil  
1,2  
Oil Pivot Points  
Inspect Spark Arrester / Muffler  
Inspect Air Screen  
Clean or Replace Air Cleaner Cartridge  
Clean Engine Cylinder Fins  
Replace Spark Plug  
2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.  
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.  
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS  
LUBRICATION CHART  
The warranty on this tiller does not cover  
items that have been subjected to op-  
erator abuse or negligence. To receive 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.  
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-  
ments section of this manual should be  
checked at least once each season.  
• 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 as-  
sure proper air-fuel mixture and help  
your engine run better and last longer.  
1 Tine Control  
2 Engine  
BEFORE EACH USE  
1. Check engine oil level.  
2. Check tine operation.  
3. Check for loose fasteners.  
1 Idler Arm  
1SAE 30 OR 10W-30 MOTOR OIL  
2 Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE” section  
LUBRICATION  
Keep unit well lubricated (See “LUBRI-  
CATION CHART”) .  
11  
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5. Refill engine with oil. See “FILL  
ENGINE WITH OIL ” in the Operation  
section of this manual.  
CAUTION: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 main-  
tenance. Clean muffler area of all grass,  
dirt, and debris.  
Oil  
Drain  
Plug  
Do not touch hot muffler or cylinder fins as  
contact may cause burns.  
ENGINE  
Oil Level  
Oil Filler Plug  
LUBRICATION  
Use only high quality detergent oil rated  
with API service classification SG-SL.  
Select the oil’s SAE viscosity grade ac-  
cording to your expected temperature.  
AIR CLEANER  
Service air cleaner cartridge every  
twenty-five hours, more often if engine is  
used in very dusty conditions.  
1. Loosen air cleaner screw.  
2. Remove air cleaner cover.  
3. Carefully remove air cleaner cartridge.  
Be careful. Do not allow dirt or debris  
to fall into carburetor.  
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES  
SAE 30  
5W-30  
-20  
0
30  
32 40  
0
100  
60  
80  
F
C
-20  
10  
-30  
-10  
20  
30  
40  
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE  
4. Clean by tapping gently on a flat sur-  
face.  
oil_visc_chart1_e  
NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils  
(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 five (5)  
hours of continuous use. Add SAE 30 mo-  
tor oil or equivalent. Tighten oil filler plug  
securely each time you check the oil level.  
NOTE: If very dirty or damaged, replace  
cartridge.  
5. Clean and replace cover. Tighten  
screw securely.  
CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such  
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean  
cartridge. They may cause deterioration  
of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do  
not use pressurized air to clean or dry  
cartridge.  
Air Cleaner  
Cartridge  
Cover  
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL  
Determine temperature range expected  
before oil change. All oil must meet API  
service classification SG-SL.  
Air Cleaner  
Screw  
• Be sure tiller is on level surface.  
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.  
• Catch oil in a suitable container.  
1. Remove drain plug.  
2. Tip tiller forward to drain oil.  
3. After oil has drained completely,  
replace oil drain plug and tighten se-  
curely.  
4. Remove oil filler plug. Be careful not to  
allow dirt to enter the engine.  
12  
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COOLING SYSTEM  
SPARK PLUG  
Your engine is air cooled. For proper en-  
gine performance and long life keep your  
engine clean.  
• Clean air screen frequently using a  
stiff-bristled brush.  
• Remove blower housing and clean as  
necessary.  
• Keep cylinder fins free of dirt and chaff.  
Replace spark plugs at the beginning of  
each tilling season or after every 50 hours  
of use, whichever comes first. Spark plug  
type and gap setting are shown in “PROD-  
UCT SPECIFICATIONS” on page 4 of this  
manual.  
TRANSMISSION  
Your transmission is sealed and will not  
require lubrication unless serviced.  
Cylinder Fins  
Muffler  
Blower  
Housing  
CLEANING  
Do not clean your tiller when the engine  
and transmission are hot. We do not rec-  
ommend 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.  
• Clean engine, wheels, finish, etc. of all  
foreign matter.  
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free  
of all gasoline, oil, etc.  
Air Screen  
MUFFLER  
Do not operate tiller without muffler. Do  
not tamper with exhaust system. Dam-  
aged mufflers or spark arresters could  
create a fire hazard. Inspect periodically  
and replace if necessary. If your engine is  
equipped with a spark arrester screen as-  
sembly, remove every 50 hours for clean-  
ing and inspection. Replace if damaged.  
• Protect painted surfaces with auto-  
motive type wax.  
13  
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SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS  
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire  
from spark plug and place wire where it  
cannot come into contact with plug.  
MID-WIDTH TILLING - 22" PATH  
• Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes  
“C” in tine shaft.  
TILLER  
C
A
A
C
TO ADJUST HANDLE HEIGHT  
Factory assembly has provided lowest  
handle height. Select handle height best  
suited for your tilling conditions. Handle  
height will be different when tiller digs into  
soil.  
1. If a higher handle height is desired,  
loosen the four nuts securing handle  
panel to engine brackets.  
tine_5  
NARROW TILLING/CULTIVATING -  
12-3/4" PATH  
• Remove outer tines.  
2. Slide handle panel to desired location.  
3. Tighten the four nuts securely.  
tine_6  
Engine Brackets  
Handle  
Panel  
Inner Tines Only  
NOTE: When reassembling outer tines,  
be sure right tine assembly (marked “R”)  
and left tine assembly (marked “L) are  
mounted to correct side of tine shaft.  
Nuts(Also 2  
on Left Side  
of Tiller  
TINE OPERATION CHECK  
WARNING: Disconnect spark plug wire  
from spark plug to prevent starting while  
checking tine operation.  
For proper tine operation, tine control lever  
must be against control body and all slack  
removed from inner wire of control cable  
when control is in the “OFF” (up) position.  
If lever and cable are loose, loosen cable  
clip at lower end of cable. Pull up on cable  
to remove slack, without extending spring  
on end of cable, and retighten cable clip.  
TINE ARRANGEMENT  
Your outer tines can be assembled in  
several different ways to suit your tilling or  
cultivating needs.  
CAUTION: Tines are sharp. Wear  
gloves or other protection when handling  
tines.  
NORMAL TILLING - 24" PATH  
• Assemble holes “A” in tine hubs to holes  
“B” in tine shaft.  
FINAL CHECK “OFF” POSITION  
1. With tine control “OFF” (up), push  
down on handle to raise tines off the  
ground.  
Clevis Pin  
Outer Tine  
2. Slowly pull recoil starter handle while  
observing tines. Tines should not  
rotate.  
A
A
B
3. If tines rotate, inner wire of control  
cable is too tight which is extend-  
ing lower spring and engaging tines.  
Loosen cable clip and push down on  
cable only enough to relieve spring ten-  
sion. Tighten cable clip.  
B
tine_4  
Hairpin Clip  
Inner Tine  
4. Recheck in “OFF” position and adjust  
if necessary.  
14  
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FINAL CHECK “ON” POSITION  
TO REPLACE V-BELT  
5. With tine control “ON” (held down to  
handle) push down on handle to raise  
tines off the ground.  
6. Slowly pull recoil starter handle while  
observing tines. Tines should rotate  
forward.  
7. If tines do not rotate, inner wire of con-  
trol cable is too loose. Loosen cable  
clip and pull cable up to remove slack  
and retighten clip.  
8. Recheck in “ON” position and adjust if  
necessary.  
Replace V-belt if it has stretched consid-  
erably or if it has cracks or frayed edges.  
1. Belt guard must be removed to ser-  
vice belt. See “TO REMOVE BELT  
GUARD” in this section of manual.  
BELT REMOVAL  
2. Remove V-belt from transmission pul-  
ley first and then from engine pulley.  
BELT REPLACEMENT  
3. Install new V-belt to engine pulley first  
then to transmission pulley. Be sure  
belt is positioned on inside groove of  
both pulleys, inside all belt guides and  
rests on idler pulley.  
NOTE: If “ON” position check required  
adjustment, recheck “OFF” position ad-  
justment to insure tines do not rotate when  
control is “OFF” (up).  
CHECK TINE OPERATION  
Tine Control “OFF” Position  
4. See “TINE OPERATION CHECK” in  
this section of manual.  
5. Replace belt guard  
Body  
Belt Guide  
Tine Control “ON” Position  
Engine  
Pulley  
Tine Control Cable  
Cable Clip  
V-Belt  
Idler Pulley  
Belt Guide  
Transmission  
Pulley  
ENGINE  
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of  
the emission control devices and systems,  
which are being done at the customers ex-  
pense, may be performed by any non-road  
engine repair establishment or individual.  
Warranty repairs must be performed by an  
authorized engine manufacturer's service  
outlet.  
TO REMOVE BELT GUARD  
1. Remove screws from side of belt  
guard.  
2. Pull belt guard out and away from unit.  
3. Replace belt guard by reversing above  
procedure. Be sure slot in bottom of  
belt guard is under head of tine shield  
bolt and all nuts are tightened securely.  
TO ADJUST CARBURETOR  
The carburetor has been preset at the  
factory and adjustment should not be  
necessary. However, engine performance  
can be affected by differences in fuel, tem-  
perature, altitude or load. If the carburetor  
does need adjustment, contact your near-  
est authorized service center/department  
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the  
engine governor, which is factory set  
for proper engine speed. Overspeeding  
the engine above the factory high speed  
setting can be dangerous. If you think  
the engine-governed high speed needs  
adjusting, contact your nearest sears or  
other qualified service center which has  
the proper equipment and experience to  
make any necessary adjustments.  
Belt  
Guard  
Screw  
Screw  
Screw  
15  
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STORAGE  
Immediately prepare your tiller for storage  
at the end of the season or if the unit will  
not be used for 30 days or more.  
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable  
alternative in minimizing the formation of  
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add  
Warning: Never store the tiller with gas- stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor-  
oline in the tank inside a building where  
fumes may reach an open flame or spark.  
Allow the engine to cool before storing in  
any enclosure.  
age container. Always follow the mix ratio  
found on stabilizer container. Run engine  
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer  
to allow the stabilizer to reach the carbu-  
retor. Do not empty the gas tank and  
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.  
ENGINE OIL  
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace  
with clean oil. (See “ENGINE” in the Main-  
tenance section of this manual).  
CYLINDER  
TILLER  
1. Clean entire tiller (See “CLEANING” in  
the Maintenance section of this man-  
ual).  
2. Inspect and replace belts, if necessary  
(See belt replacement instructions in  
the Service and Adjustments section of  
this manual).  
3. Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance  
section of this manual.  
4. Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws  
are securely fastened. Inspect moving  
parts for damage, breakage and wear.  
Replace if necessary.  
5. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint  
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.  
1. Remove spark plug.  
2. Pour 1 ounce (29 ml) of oil through  
spark plug hole into cylinder.  
3. Pull starter handle slowly several times  
to distribute oil.  
4. Replace with new spark plug.  
OTHER  
• 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.  
• 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.  
IMPORTANT: Never cover tiller while en-  
gine and exhaust areas are still warm.  
ENGINE  
FUEL SYSTEM  
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent  
gum deposits from forming in essential  
fuel system parts such as the carburetor,  
fuel filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.  
Also, alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol  
or using ethanol or methanol) can attract  
moisture which leads to separation and  
formation of acids during storage. Acidic  
gas can damage the fuel system of an  
engine while in storage.  
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en-  
gine and letting 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.  
• Use fresh fuel next season.  
16  
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:  
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Will not start  
1. Out of fuel.  
1. Fill fuel tank.  
2. Engine not “CHOKED”  
properly.  
2. See “TO START ENGINE”  
in the Operation section.  
3. Wait several minutes before  
attempting to start.  
3. Engine flooded.  
4. Dirty air cleaner.  
5. Water in fuel.  
4. Clean or replace air cleaner  
cartridge.  
5. Empty fuel tank and carbure-  
tor, and refill tank with fresh  
gasoline.  
6. Remove fuel tank and clean.  
7. Make sure spark plug wire is  
seated properly on plug.  
8. Replace spark plug or adjust  
gap.  
6. Clogged fuel tank.  
7. Loose spark plug wire.  
8. Bad spark plug or  
improper gap.  
9. Carburetor out of adjust-  
ment.  
9. Make necessary adjust-  
ments.  
Hard to start  
1. Throttle control not set  
properly.  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
1. Place throttle control in  
“FAST” position.  
2. Clean or replace air cleaner  
cartridge.  
3. Bad spark plug or  
improper gap.  
3. Replace spark plug or adjust  
gap.  
4. Stale or dirty fuel.  
4. Empty fuel tank and refill tank  
with fresh clean gasoline.  
5. Make sure spark plug wire is  
seated properly on plug.  
6. Make necessary adjust-  
ments.  
5. Loose spark plug wire.  
6. Carburetor out of  
adjustment.  
Loss of power  
1. Engine is overloaded.  
1. Set depth stake and wheels  
for shallower tilling.  
2. Clean or replace air cleaner  
cartridge.  
2. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Low oil level/dirty oil.  
4. Faulty spark plug.  
3. Check oil level/change oil.  
4. Clean and regap or change  
spark plug.  
5. Empty and clean fuel tank  
and refill, and clean carbure-  
tor.  
5. Oil in fuel.  
6. Stale or dirty fuel.  
7. Water in fuel.  
6. Empty fuel tank and refill tank  
with fresh clean gasoline  
7. Empty fuel tank and carbure-  
tor, and refill tank with fresh  
gasoline.  
8. Remove fuel tank and clean.  
9. Connect and tighten spark  
plug wire.  
8. Clogged fuel tank.  
9. Spark plug wire loose.  
10. Dirty engine air screen.  
11. Dirty/clogged muffler.  
12. Carburetor out of  
adjustment.  
10.Clean engine air screen.  
11. Clean/replace muffler.  
12. Make necessary adjust-  
ments.  
13. Contact a Sears or other  
qualified service center.  
13. Poor compression.  
17  
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:  
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
CORRECTION  
Engine  
overheats  
1. Low oil level/dirty oil.  
2. Dirty engine air screen.  
3. Dirty engine.  
1. Check oil level/change oil.  
2. Clean engine air screen.  
3. Clean cylinder fins,  
airscreen, muffler area.  
4. Remove and clean muffler.  
5. Adjust carburetor to richer  
position.  
4. Partially plugged muffler.  
5. Improper carburetor  
adjustment.  
Excessive  
bounce/difficult  
handling  
1. Ground too dry and hard.  
1. Moisten ground or wait  
for more favorable soil  
conditions.  
2. Adjust wheels and depth  
stake.  
2. Wheels and depth stake  
incorrectly adjusted.  
Soil balls up or  
clumps  
1. Ground too wet.  
1. Wait for more favorable  
soil conditions.  
Engine runs but  
tiller won’t move  
1. Tine control is not  
engaged.  
2. V-belt not correctly  
adjusted.  
3. V-belt is off pulley(s).  
1. Engage tine control.  
2. Inspect/adjust V-belt.  
3. Inspect V-belt.  
Engine runs but  
labors when  
tilling  
1. Tilling too deep.  
1. Set depth stake for shal-  
lower tilling.  
2. Throttle control not  
properly adjusted.  
3. Carburetor out of  
adjustment.  
2. Check throttle control setting.  
3. Make necessary adjust-  
ments.  
18  
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02410  
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® Registered Trademark / TM Trademark / SM Service Mark of Sears, Roebuck and Co.  
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Printed in U.S.A.  
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