Troy Bilt Tiller 683F User Manual

Operator’s Manual  
Rear-tine PTO Tiller Models  
683F — HorseTM  
E683F — HorseTM ES  
E683G — Big Red  
Engine styles vary by model  
IMPORTANT:READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY  
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. 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 arrester  
for the muffler is available by contacting the service department at Troy-Bilt LLC, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.  
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. BOX 361131, CLEVELAND, OH 44136-0019  
PRINTED IN USA  
FORM NO. 770-10598E  
(10/25/2005)  
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Section  
1
Safety  
This machine meets voluntary safety standard B71.8  
– 1996, which is sponsored by the Outdoor Power  
Equipment Institute, Inc., and is published by the  
American National Standards Institute.  
Safety Alert Symbol  
WARNING  
This is a safety alert symbol. It is used in this  
manual and on the unit to alert you to potential hazards.  
When you see this symbol, read and obey the message  
that follows it. Failure to obey safety messages could  
result in personal injury or property damage.  
The engine exhaust from this product contains  
chemicals known to the State of California to cause  
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
6. Warning: Handle fuel with care; it  
is highly flammable and its vapors are  
explosive. Be sure to take the following  
precautions:  
Clutch Lever is in the ENGAGE position,  
the Forward Interlock Levers are squeezed  
closed and the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever is shifted to FORWARD. The tines  
rotate in Reverse whether the Interlock  
Levers are closed or open.  
Training  
1. Carefully read this Owner’s Manual,  
the separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and  
any other literature you may receive. Be  
thoroughly familiar with the controls and  
the proper use of the tiller and its engine.  
Know how to stop the unit and disengage  
the controls quickly.  
a. Store fuel in containers specifically  
designed for this purpose.  
b. The gas cap shall never be removed 2. Exercise extreme caution when on or  
or fuel added while the engine is  
running. Allow the engine to cool  
for several minutes before adding  
fuel.  
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.  
Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do  
not carry passengers.  
2. Never allow children to operate the  
tiller. Never allow adults to operate the  
tiller without proper instruction.  
3. After striking a foreign object, stop the  
engine, remove the wire from the spark  
plug wire and prevent it from touching  
the spark plug. Thoroughly inspect the  
machine for any damage and repair the  
damage before restarting and operating  
the machine.  
c. Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars,  
pipes, open flames, and sparks  
away from the fuel tank and fuel  
container.  
d. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme  
care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.  
Use a funnel or spout to prevent  
spillage.  
3. Keep the area of operation clear of all  
persons, particularly children and pets.  
4. Keep in mind that the operator or user  
is responsible for accidents or hazards  
occurring to other people, their property,  
and themselves.  
4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or  
falling.  
Preparation  
e. Replace all fuel tank and container  
5. If the unit should start to vibrate  
abnormally, stop the engine, discon-  
nect the spark plug wire and prevent it  
from touching the spark plug, and check  
immediately for the cause. Vibration is  
generally a warning of trouble.  
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the  
tiller is to be used and remove all foreign  
objects.  
caps securely.  
f. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt  
to start the engine, but move the  
machine away from the area of  
spillage and avoid creating any  
source of ignition until fuel vapors  
have dissipated.  
2. Put the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
into NEUTRAL before starting the engine.  
3. Do not operate the tiller without  
wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid  
loose garments or jewelry that could get  
caught in moving parts.  
6. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark  
plug wire and prevent it from touching  
the spark plug whenever you leave the  
operating position, before unclogging the  
tines, or when making any repairs, adjust-  
ments or inspections.  
7. Never make adjustments when engine  
is running (unless recommended by  
manufacturer).  
4. Do not operate the tiller when barefoot  
or wearing sandals, sneakers, or light  
footwear. Wear protective footwear that  
will improve footing on slippery surfaces.  
Operation  
7. Take all possible precautions when  
leaving machine unattended. Stop engine.  
Disconnect spark plug wire and move it  
away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
key on electric start models  
1. Do not put hands or feet near or under  
rotating parts. Do not allow hands or any  
other part of the body or clothing near the  
rotating tines or near any other moving  
part. The tines begin to rotate forward  
once the engine starts, the Tines/PTO  
5. Do not till near underground electric  
cables, telephone lines, pipes or hoses. If  
in doubt, contact your telephone or utility  
company.  
8. Before cleaning, repairing, or  
3
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Section 1: Safety  
inspecting, stop the engine and make  
certain all moving parts have stopped.  
Disconnect the spark plug wire and  
prevent it from touching the spark plug to  
prevent accidental starting.  
at the end of a row, reduce engine water.  
speed and lift handlebars to raise  
tines out of the soil.  
g. In an emergency, stop tines and  
wheels by shifting the Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever into  
Internal– Drink large quantities of water  
or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia,  
beaten eggs or vegetable oil. Call a  
doctor immediately.  
Eyes– Flush with water for 15 minutes.  
Get prompt medical attention.  
9. The flap on the tine hood must be  
down when operating the tiller, unless  
using the Hiller/Furrower attachment.  
NEUTRAL. If you can not reach the  
lever or have lost control of the  
tiller, let go of the handlebars and  
all controls. Do not attempt to  
restrain the tiller.  
26. DANGER– BATTERIES PRODUCE  
EXPLOSIVE GASES. Keep sparks, flame  
or smoking materials away. Ventilate  
when charging battery or using in an  
enclosed space. Always wear safety  
goggles when working near battery.  
10. Never use the tiller unless proper  
guards, plates, or other safety protective  
devices are in place.  
15. Do not overload the tiller’s capacity  
by attempting to till too deeply at too fast  
a rate.  
11. Do not run engine in an enclosed  
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide gas, a deadly poison that is  
odorless, colorless, and tasteless.  
27. Please remember: You can always  
stop the tines and wheels by releasing all  
controls, or by moving the ignition switch  
and/or throttle control lever on the engine  
to OFF or STOP.  
16. Never operate the tiller at high  
transport speeds on hard or slippery  
surfaces. Look behind and use care when  
backing up.  
12. Keep children and pets away.  
13. Never operate the tiller under engine  
power if the Wheel Speed Lever is in the  
FREEWHEEL position. In FREEWHEEL,  
the wheels will not hold the tiller back and  
the revolving tines could propel the tiller  
rapidly, possibly causing loss of control.  
Always engage the Wheel Speed Lever  
in either FAST or SLOW position before  
starting the engine or engaging the tines  
with the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever.  
17. Do not operate the tiller on a slope  
that is too steep for safety. When on  
slopes, slow down and make sure you  
have good footing. Never permit the tiller  
to freewheel down slopes.  
28. To load or unload the tiller, see the  
instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.  
29. Use extreme caution when backing or  
pulling the machine towards you.  
30. Start the engine carefully according to  
instructions and with feet well away from  
the tines.  
18. Never allow bystanders near the unit.  
19. Only use attachments and accessories  
that are approved by the manufacturer of  
the tiller.  
31. Never pick up or carry a machine  
while the engine is running.  
14. Be aware that the tiller may unex-  
pectedly bounce upward or jump forward  
if the tines should strike extremely hard  
packed soil, frozen ground, or buried  
obstacles like large stones, roots, or  
stumps. If in doubt about the tilling  
conditions, always use the following  
operating precautions to assist you in  
maintaining control of the tiller:  
20. Use tiller attachments and accesso-  
32. When loading or unloading the tiller,  
always disengage tines and use slower  
wheel and engine throttle speeds. Use  
sturdy ramps wide and strong enough to  
easily support the tiller (280-to-325 lbs.,  
depending on model) and operator. Never  
go down ramps in FORWARD drive—the  
tiller could tip forward, exposing you  
to the tines (which should be disen-  
gaged). Always use REVERSE drive and  
back down ramps. To go up ramps, use  
FORWARD drive and follow the tiller.  
ries when recommended.  
21. Never operate the tiller without good  
visibility or light.  
22. Never operate the tiller if you are  
tired, or under the influence of alcohol,  
drugs or medication.  
23. Operators shall not tamper with the  
engine-governor settings on the machine;  
the governor controls the maximum safe  
operating speed to protect the engine and  
all moving parts from damage caused by  
overspeed. Authorized service shall be  
sought if a problem exists.  
a. Walk behind and to one side of  
the tiller, using one hand on the  
handlebars. Relax your arm, but  
use a secure hand grip.  
b. Use shallower depth regulator  
settings, working gradually deeper  
with each pass.  
c. Use slower wheel, tine and engine  
speeds.  
d. Clear the tilling area of all large  
stones, roots and other debris.  
33. The Forward Interlock Safety System  
should be tested for correct functioning  
every time the tiller or PTO power unit is  
used. See Section 4 in this Manual.  
24. Do not touch engine parts which may  
be hot from operation. Let parts cool  
down sufficiently.  
34. If using the optional Dozer Blade,  
either remove the tine attachment, or  
disengage the tines with the Tines/PTO  
Clutch Lever. Revolving tines are  
dangerous.  
25. POISON/DANGER—CAUSES SEVERE  
BURNS. The battery on electric start  
models contains sulfuric acid. Avoid  
contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Keep  
out of reach of children.  
e. Avoid using downward pressure on  
handlebars. If need be, use slight  
upward pressure to keep the tines  
from digging too deeply.  
Antidotes:  
f. Before contacting hard packed soil  
External– Flush immediately with lots of  
4
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Section 1: Safety  
4. To reduce the chances of a fire hazard,  
keep the engine free of grass, leaves, or  
excessive grease.  
7. Never perform maintenance while the  
engine is running or the spark plug wire  
is connected, except when specifically  
instructed to do so.  
Maintenance and Storage  
1. Keep the tiller, attachments and acces-  
sories in safe working condition.  
5. Store gasoline in a cool, well-venti-  
lated area, safely away from any spark-  
or flame-producing equipment. Store  
gasoline in an approved container, safely  
away from the reach of children.  
2. Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at  
frequent intervals for proper tightness to  
be sure the equipment is in safe working  
condition.  
8. If the fuel tank has to be drained, do  
this outdoors.  
3. Never store the tiller with fuel in the  
fuel tank inside a building where ignition  
sources are present such as hot water  
and space heaters, furnaces, clothes  
dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc.).  
Allow engine to cool before storing in any  
enclosure.  
6. Refer to the Maintenance sections  
of this Manual and the separate Engine  
Owner’s Manual for instructions if the  
tiller is to be stored for an extended  
period.  
C) WARNING: Operating and  
Safety Instructions  
A) WARNING: Hot Surfaces.  
Top of the air cleaner housing.  
Decals  
For your safety and the safety of others,  
various safety and operational decals are  
located on your unit (Figure 1).  
Keep the decals clean and legible at all  
times. Contact your local service dealer or  
the Factory for replacements if any decals  
are damaged or missing.  
E) Forward  
D) Power Unit  
Interlock  
Operating  
Lever (2)  
Instructions  
Refer to the Parts List for decal locations,  
descriptions and part numbers.  
F) Engine Stabilization.  
Top of fuel tank.  
B) WARNING: Engine Ignition.  
Electric start models only.  
Figure 1: Location of Safety and Operating Decals.  
(Briggs & Stratton engine shown)  
Operating Symbols  
Various symbols (shown here, with word  
descriptions) are used on the tiller and engine.  
Your unit may not have all of the symbols.  
STOP  
CHOKE  
ON  
SLOW  
CHOKE  
OFF  
ROTATING  
TINES  
STOP  
WARNING  
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:  
• READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL.  
• KNOW LOCATIONS AND FUNCTIONS OF ALL CONTROLS.  
• KEEP ALL SAFETY DEVICES AND SHIELDS IN PLACE AND WORKING.  
• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN OR UNINSTRUCTED ADULTS TO OPERATE TILLER.  
• SHUT OFF ENGINE AND DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE MANUALLY UNCLOG-  
GING TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.  
• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY FROM MACHINE.  
• KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.  
• USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN REVERSING OR PULLING THE MACHINE TOWARDS YOU.  
5
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Section  
2
Assembly  
the Factory if any items are missing or  
damaged).  
WARNING  
To prevent personal injury or property  
damage, do not start the engine until  
all assembly steps are complete and  
you have read and understand the  
safety and operating instructions in this  
manual.  
NOTE: Use the screw length template  
(Figure 2-1) to identify screws.  
Loose Parts List  
Qty.  
1
1
Description  
Handlebar Assembly  
Wheels/Tines PTO Drive Lever  
1
2
Introduction  
The following items  
are in the hardware bag:  
Carefully follow these assembly steps to  
correctly prepare your tiller for use. It is  
recommended that you read this Section  
in its entirety before beginning assembly.  
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
26 oz. Bottle SAE 30W Oil  
Clutch Pawl Spring  
Belt Adjusting Tool  
Plastic Cable Ties  
NOTE: Three different Horse model tillers  
are covered in this Manual. Use only the  
information applicable to your model.  
Tiller engines vary by model. Your engine  
may appear differently than those found  
in illustrations of this manual.  
Curved Head Screw, 1/4-20 x 2  
Flanged Lock Nut, 1/4-20  
Pan Head Screw, #10-32 x 1/2  
Figure 2-1: To identify length of screw,  
place screw on template as shown and  
measure distance between bottom of screw  
head and tip of screw.  
The following parts (electric start models  
only), packaged separately.  
2
2
2
Nuts, 1/4-20  
(for battery terminals)  
Inspect Unit  
Screws, 1/4-20 x 5/8  
(for battery terminals)  
Keys  
(in ignition switch)  
STEP 2: Attach Handlebar  
Inspect the unit and carton for damage  
immediately after delivery. Contact the  
carrier (trucking company) if you find  
or suspect damage. Inform them of the  
damage and request instructions for filing  
a claim. To protect your rights, put your  
claim in writing and mail a copy to the  
carrier within 15 days after the unit has  
been delivered. Contact us at the Factory  
if you need assistance in this matter.  
IMPORTANT: When disassembling  
handlebar assembly, keep left-side clamp  
and ratchet separated from the right-side  
clamp and ratchet.  
NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the  
tiller are as viewed from the opera-  
tor’s position behind the handlebars  
(unless otherwise noted).  
1. Disassemble the handlebar assembly.  
To do this, remove the height adjustment  
lever by turning the lever in a counter-  
clockwise direction (Figure 2-2).  
2. Place the handlebar ends on either side  
of the base, with the wire harness toward  
the rear of the base (Figure 2-2).  
Tools/Materials Needed  
for Assembly  
STEP 1: Unpacking Instructions  
(1) 3/8" open-end wrench*  
(2) 7/16" open-end wrench*  
(2) 1/2" open-end wrench*  
(1) 9/16" open-end wrench*  
(1) 3/4" open-end wrench*  
(1) Flat blade screwdriver  
(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties)  
(1) Tire pressure gauge  
3. Install the height adjustment lever  
through the right-side clamp, handlebar  
end, ratchet, and base; then out through  
the left-side ratchet, handlebar end, and  
clamp (Figure 2-2). Secure with nut, but  
don't fully tighten.  
NOTE: Do not severely bend any of the  
control cables on the unit.  
1. The tiller is heavy. Do not attempt to  
remove it from the shipping platform until  
instructed to do so in these Assembly  
steps.  
IMPORTANT: Do not force the height  
adjustment lever through the handlebars.  
The interlock wires may be blocking  
the lever and could be damaged. You  
may gently move the wires aside if this  
condition occurs.  
2. Remove all unassembled parts from  
the carton. The hardware bag is included  
in your literature packaging.  
(1) 4-1/2" high wood block to prop unit  
* Adjustable wrenches may be used.  
3. Check that you have the items listed  
below (contact your local dealer or  
6
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Section 2: Assembly  
4. Raise handlebars to one of two height  
settings and tighten the height adjustment  
lever. Also, make sure all other mounting  
hardware is securely tightened.  
Handlebars  
Right  
Clamp  
Right  
Ratchet  
Left  
Ratchet  
NOTE: Fully assembled handlebar  
assembly should appear as shown in  
Figure 2-3.  
Base  
Left  
Clamp  
Left-Side  
Clamp  
and Nut  
Height  
Adjustment  
Lever  
Nut  
Base  
Bolt  
Wire  
Harness  
FRONT  
OF TILLER  
Figure 2-3. Fully assembled handle-  
bars.  
Figure 2-2. Handlebar assembly.  
STEP 3: Move Tiller Off Shipping  
Platform  
1. Set the Depth Regulator Lever  
(A, Figure 2-4) to Travel position. Do  
this by lifting the tiller by the handlebars,  
then pulling straight back on the lever  
and sliding down to the highest notched  
setting.  
B
A
C
D
2. Set the Wheel Speed Lever (B, Figure  
2-4) to Freewheel position. To do this,  
move the lever approximately halfway  
between the Fast and Slow settings while  
you rock the tiller forward and backward  
until the wheels move freely.  
Figure 2-5. Forward Interlock Wire  
Harness connection.  
4. Align the rear most holes of the yoke  
plates and the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever.  
Use long nose pliers to hold the bushing  
(L, Figure 27) in place while inserting  
the screw (K) through the lever and yoke  
plates. Install star washer (B, Figure 2-6)  
and nut (A), then hand tighten.  
3. Lift Handlebars high enough to clear  
tiller tines and pull back firmly to dislodge  
the tiller from the platform wheel wells.  
Figure 2-4: Photo shows the Depth  
Regulator Lever (A) and the Wheel  
Speed Lever (B).  
STEP 4: Connect Forward  
Interlock Wire Harness  
1. Remove any dirt from the Forward  
Interlock wire harness plug (C, Figure  
2-5) and its receptacle (D).  
5. Retrieve the clutch pawl spring (Figure  
2-8) from hardware bag.  
2. Remove both sets of nuts, star  
washers, screws, and one bushing  
(A, B, C, D, E, F, G, Figure 2-6) from the  
yoke plates (H). There is a bushing inside  
the short link (I). Be careful not to lose it  
when removing screw (G).  
2. Connect the Forward Interlock wire  
harness plug (C, Figure 2-5) to the recep-  
tacle (D).  
3. Slide the plates at the end of the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever over the yoke  
plates (Figure 2-9). To aid in the next  
step, insert a screw temporarily into the  
forward most holes (J, Figure 2-7) of the  
yoke plates and the lever.  
STEP 5: Attach Wheels/Tines/  
PTO Drive Lever  
1. Loosen the bolt (Figure 2-2) on the  
handlebar base and swing the handlebars  
out to the right side.  
7
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Section 2: Assembly  
Remove the temporary screw (J, Figure  
Completed assembly should appear as  
2-7) from the forward holes and move the illustrated in Figure 2-9.  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever fully forward.  
S
7. Test the operation of the Wheels/Tines/  
Install the wider hook end of the clutch  
pawl spring (M, Figure 2-8) down into the  
small hole at the end of the handle. Use  
pliers to insert the other end into the hole  
in the long link bar (N).  
PTO Lever. Push the lever down until it  
engages in the Forward position. The  
clutch roller (T, Figure 2-10) must rest  
beneath the adjustment block (U). Next,  
move the lever up to the Neutral position.  
The clutch roller (T, Figure 2-11) should  
rest on the face of the adjustment block  
(U). To test Reverse, lift and hold the  
lever all the way up in Reverse position,  
then let it go. The lever should automati-  
cally return to the Neutral position (Figure  
2-11). If not, do not use the tiller. See  
your local authorized dealer or call the  
Factory Technical Service Department for  
instructions.  
R
Q
NOTE: Do not bend or over stretch the  
spring while installing.  
P
6. Pull the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever back  
to align the forward most holes (Q, Figure  
2-9) in the yoke plate with the holes in the  
lever plates. Also align the bushing that  
is inside the short link bar (P). Install the  
screw, star washer, and nut, then tighten  
securely.  
Figure 2-9: Fully assembled Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Lever assembly.  
Securely tighten all other hardware (Q, R,  
Figure 2-9). Also ensure that the spring  
(S) is properly seated at both ends.  
T
U
C
G
D
Figure 2-10 Forward position; roller  
(T) rests under the adjustment  
block (U).  
H
F
B
A
E
I
T
U
Figure 2-6: Illustration shows the yoke plates (H), nuts, washers, and screws  
(A, E, B, F, D, G), bushing (C), and long and short links (I, J).  
Figure 2-11: Neutral position; roller  
(T) rests against middle area of the  
adjustment block (U).  
N
STEP 6: Check Gear Oil Levels  
K
Your tiller has two separate transmis-  
sions: one for the Power Unit (Figure  
2-12), the other for the Tine Attachment  
(Figure 2-13). Both transmissions were  
filled at the factory with SAE #85W–140  
weight gear oil (with an A.P.I rating of  
GL-4). Check level in both transmis-  
sions to verify that they are still correct.  
See Section 5, Transmission Gear Oil  
Maintenance for complete information  
on how to check and fill the transmis-  
sions.  
M
J
L
Figure 2-8: Clutch pawl spring.  
Tilt Wheels\Tines\PTO Lever fully  
forward before installing spring.  
Figure 2-7: Drive Lever assembly.  
8
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Section 2: Assembly  
IMPORTANT: Check gear oil level in  
both transmissions after the first 2 hours  
of new tiller operation, then every 30  
operating hours thereafter. See Section 5  
for instructions.  
operation or each use.  
STEP 8: Attach Engine Throttle  
Lever and Cable  
For shipping purposes, the throttle cable,  
together with the throttle lever, is wound  
around the engine. Carefully unwind  
the cable. If the throttle control label is  
Oil Level Hole  
WARNING  
A
To avoid electric shock from a short  
circuit (electric start tillers only), never  
allow the throttle cable to touch the  
battery. Route cable below the battery,  
on the outside of the battery holder.  
B
Figure 2-14: Engine Throttle Lever  
position and installation.  
covered with a clear protective coating,  
peel it off.  
Figure 2-12: Checking oil level on  
Power Unit Transmission.  
Tie  
To attach the throttle lever and cable:  
Tie  
1. Run the throttle cable up the inside  
edge of the right handlebar and position  
the lever as shown in Figure 2-14.  
2. From the outside of the handlebar,  
insert the curved head screw (A, Figure  
2-14), through the handlebar and the  
center hole in the throttle lever mounting  
bracket.  
Figure 2-15: Plastic Ties placement  
on handlebars.  
STEP 9: Adjust Air Pressure in  
Tires  
3. Loosely install the flanged lock nut  
and move the throttle lever back to the  
STOP position.  
For shipping purposes, the tires may  
be overinflated. Check the air pressure  
in each tire and adjust them to between  
10 and 20 pounds per square inch.  
You must inflate each tire to equal air  
pressures to prevent the tiller from pulling  
to one side.  
Figure 2-13: Checking oil level on  
Tine Attachment Transmission.  
4. From the lever side of the bracket,  
thread a pan head screw (B, Figure 2-14)  
through the small hole in the throttle lever  
bracket and into the handlebar. Tighten  
the screw securely.  
STEP 7: Add Motor Oil to Engine  
1. Before adding motor oil, park the tiller  
on level ground. Level the engine by  
placing a sturdy block under the tines or  
the tines depth regulator bar.  
5. Securely tighten both the flanged lock  
nut and the curved head screw.  
6. Use two plastic ties to secure the  
throttle cable to the right handlebar in  
two places (Figure 2-15). Loop each tie  
around the handlebar and cable (serrated  
side faces in) and pull the ties tight. Trim  
the ends.  
Assembly is complete for recoil start  
tillers. See Assembling The Electric  
Start System if you own an electric  
start tiller; otherwise, refer to Section  
3, Controls for information on tiller  
controls.  
2. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual  
provided with your tiller for detailed infor-  
mation on how to add motor oil and for  
motor oil specifications.  
IMPORTANT: One 26 oz. bottle of motor  
oil is included with your tiller. Check  
the oil level as instructed in the Engine  
Owner’s Manual provided with your tiller  
BEFORE pouring the full amount of the  
bottle into the engine.  
IMPORTANT:  
Change engine oil after first 2 hours of  
new operation.  
Check engine oil level every 5 hours of  
9
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Section 2: Assembly  
ASSEMBLING THE ELECTRIC START SYSTEM  
The following steps explain how to install and charge the battery on electric start tillers. For your safety, follow all steps and observe  
all accompanying safety messages. Section 5 contains other general battery maintenance and recharging instructions.  
STEP 2: Install the  
Battery Cables  
NOTE: The cable terminals should be  
toward the rear (keyswitch side) of the  
battery posts.  
DANGER  
To Avoid Personal Injury or Property  
Damage:  
DANGER  
Battery produces explosive gases.  
• Keep away sparks, flames, and ciga-  
rettes.  
• Do not touch positive battery terminal  
and any surrounding metal objects with  
tools, jewelry or other metal items.  
Failure to comply could cause a short  
circuit leading to electrical burns or  
explosion of battery gases.  
• Ventilate area when charging or using  
battery in an enclosed space.  
1. Use a 5/8" long screw (K, Figure 2-  
18) and 1/4-20 hex nut (L) to connect  
the positive (+) battery cable (B) to the  
positive (marked +) battery post (C).  
Make sure that this is the cable on the  
left side, with one end attached to the  
solenoid (D).  
• Make sure battery vent tube is always  
open after battery is filled with acid.  
• Never bring a gas can near the positive  
(+) battery terminal. A short circuit  
could occur leading to an explosion  
of the gasoline or the battery gases.  
Always fill the engine fuel tank from  
the front or side of the engine.  
WARNING  
Remove metal jewelry before working  
near the battery or near the electri-  
cal system. Failure to comply may  
cause a short circuit, resulting in elec-  
trical burns, a shock, or battery gas  
explosion.  
2. Slide the black rubber boot (E) com-  
pletely over the battery post and cable  
connector.  
3. Use a 5/8" long screw and 1/4-20 hex  
nut to connect the negative (-) battery  
cable (F) to the negative (marked -)  
battery post (G) and secure with screw  
(H) and nut (I).  
DANGER  
Never jump start the battery with a  
vehicle battery or charging system.  
This may produce a battery explosion,  
causing acid or electrical burns.  
NOTE: If the battery is put into  
service after the date shown on  
the top of the battery, charge for  
a minimum of one hour at 6-10  
amps. Refer to the Maintenence  
section of this manual for more  
detailed instructions regarding  
proper battery charging procedure  
4. Slide the black rubber boot (J) com-  
pletely over the battery post and cable  
connector.  
Controls for information on tiller  
Assembly is complete for electric  
start tillers. See Section 3,  
controls.  
H
STEP 1: Connect the Wire  
Harness Receptacle  
K
G (-)  
1. Before installing the battery and its  
hold-down clamp, insert the plastic wire  
harness receptacle (A, Figure 2-18) into  
the prongs of the keyswitch (M) located  
on the hold-down clamp.  
J
OIL  
I
C (+)  
L
F
2. Remove the ignition keys from the  
keyswitch and store them safely away.  
Do not insert the key into the keyswitch  
until you complete this section and read  
Section 3, Controls.  
E
B
M
A
D
Figure 2-18: Battery cable assembly.  
10  
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Section  
3
Features and Controls  
G
WARNING  
F
Before operating your machine,  
carefully read and understand all  
safety, controls, operating instructions  
in this Manual, the separate Engine  
Owner’s Manual and on the decals on  
the machine.  
A
B
Failure to follow these instructions can  
result in serious personal injury.  
E
C
Introduction  
D
This section describes the location and  
function of the controls and features on  
your tiller. Refer to Section 4, Operation  
for detailed operating instructions.  
Practice using these controls, with the  
engine shut off, until you completely  
understand the operation of the controls  
and feel confident with each of them.  
Figure 3-1:  
A– Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
B– Forward Interlock Levers  
C– Wheel Speed Lever  
D– Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
E– Depth Regulator Lever  
F– Handlebar Height Adjustment Lever  
G– Engine Throttle Lever  
IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate engine  
manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s Manual  
for information about the controls on the  
engine.  
This lever has three operating positions:  
FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE.  
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tines or  
any PTO attachment in REVERSE.  
NOTE: All references to left, right, front  
and rear of the machine are based on a  
position behind the handlebars and facing  
forward.  
FORWARD is engaged when the lever  
is moved down until the clutch roller  
(G, Figure 3-2) engages into the detent  
position under the adjustment block (H,  
Figure 3-2). You will definitely feel the  
lever engage into this position.  
NEUTRAL is this control’s normal non-  
operating position. The lever returns to  
NEUTRAL when it is tapped out of the  
FORWARD position or released from the  
REVERSE position. NEUTRAL position  
is between FORWARD and REVERSE  
(Figure 3-3). Use this setting to stop  
the wheels, tines or any PTO attach-  
ment.  
PTO Attachments Feature  
In addition to powerful tilling capability,  
you can quickly convert your machine  
into a PTO (Power Take-Off) Power Unit  
that is capable of towing or powering  
various TROY-BILT attachments.  
Use the FORWARD setting to move the  
wheels and tines forward, or to apply  
power to an optional PTO (Power Take  
Off) attachment. (See also Forward  
Interlock Levers.)  
IMPORTANT: Always shift to NEUTRAL  
before starting the engine or before  
engaging the wheels, tines or any PTO  
attachment.  
You can access this capability by  
removing the tines attachment (powered  
by the PTO Power Unit). The PTO Power  
Unit is then available for engine powered  
attachments, or for pulling or towing non-  
powered attachments. See Section 4,  
PTO Power Unit for detailed information  
on installing and operating TROY-BILT  
PTO attachments.  
To stop the wheels, tines or any PTO  
attachment, move the lever to NEUTRAL  
by tapping the lever upwards (Figure  
3-3) and releasing.  
Forward Interlock Levers  
The Forward Interlock Levers (B,  
Figure 3-1) are attached under each  
handlebar grip.  
REVERSE is engaged when the lever is  
pushed (with an open palm) all the way  
up and held in that position (Figure 3-  
4). Use this setting to move the wheels  
in reverse. To stop moving in reverse,  
release the lever; it automatically returns  
to the NEUTRAL position.  
You must squeeze at least one of these  
interlock levers up against the handlebar  
grip whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever is engaged in FORWARD  
position.  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
Use the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
(A, Figure 3-1) to engage and disengage  
power to the transmission.  
11  
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Section 3: Features and Controls  
If both Forward Interlock Levers are  
released before first returning the Wheels/ damage, always move the Wheels/Tines/  
IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission  
Verify Position of Clutch Roller  
When you shift between FORWARD,  
NEUTRAL and REVERSE, the clutch  
roller at the base of the Wheels/Tines/  
PTO Drive Lever should be positioned  
as shown in Figures 3-2, 3-3 and 3-4.  
Verify the position of the clutch roller as  
you shift the lever. If it is not positioned  
correctly, contact the Factory or see  
your local authorized dealer.  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever to NEUTRAL, the  
engine will stop.  
PTO Drive Lever into NEUTRAL before  
shifting the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever.  
IMPORTANT: The Forward Interlock  
Levers are a safety control that stops  
the engine should you lose control while  
going forward and cannot shift into  
NEUTRAL.  
Depth Regulator Lever  
Use this lever (E, Figure 3-1) to regulate  
the tilling depth of the tines. This control  
also has a TRAVEL position, which  
enables transport with the tines off the  
ground.  
Wheel Speed Lever  
Use the Wheel Speed Lever (C, Fig. 3-1)  
To operate the lever, lift up on the handle-  
to select one of three operating positions: bars, pull the Depth Regulator Lever  
SLOW, FAST or FREEWHEEL.  
straight back, and then slide it up or down  
to one of the eight detent height settings.  
SLOW – Lever moved all the way down.  
Most effective for normal tilling or for  
low-speed transport.  
The eight detent positions offer a range  
of tine height settings. This enables you  
to select the height that is most effective  
for a particular condition. The top detent  
position is the TRAVEL setting. Use the  
second or third detent from the top for  
shallow tilling and cultivating. Use the  
other detents for deeper tilling and for  
power composting.  
FAST – Lever moved all the way up.  
Most effective for cultivating or for fast-  
speed transport.  
FREEWHEEL – Lever in between SLOW  
and FAST (wheels will roll freely). Used  
when transporting the machine on level  
ground without engine power, and when  
using stationary PTO attachments.  
G
H
Figure 3-2: FORWARD position;roller  
(G) rests under the adjustment block  
WARNING  
IMPORTANT: To avoid transmission  
damage, always move Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever into NEUTRAL before shifting  
the Wheel Speed Lever.  
To a v o i d p e r s o n a l i n j u r y,  
always place the tines in the TRAVEL  
position before starting the engine.  
This prevents the tines from touching  
the ground until you are ready to begin  
tilling.  
IMPORTANT: When shifting into SLOW or  
FAST, gently roll the machine forward or  
backward to help fully engage the wheel  
gears. When engaged, the wheels will not  
turn unless the engine is running and the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is engaged  
in FORWARD or REVERSE.  
G
H
Handlebar Height Adjustment  
Lever  
Figure 3-3: NEUTRAL position;roller  
(G) rests against middle area of the  
adjustment block (H).  
Use this lever (F, Figure 3-1) to adjust the  
handlebars to one of two height settings.  
Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
Use this lever (D, Figure 3-1) to engage or  
disengage power from the transmission  
PTO clutch to the tines or any PTO attach-  
ment. This control has two operating  
positions: ENGAGE and DISENGAGE.  
1. To change the height, hold the handle-  
bars with one hand and loosen the lever in  
a counterclockwise direction.  
2. Move the handlebars to one of the two  
preset height settings.  
ENGAGE – Lever moved into detent slot  
farthest from engine. Use this position to  
operate tines or other PTO attachments.  
After shifting to ENGAGE, briefly operate  
machine in FORWARD to help fully  
engage the PTO clutch.  
3. Retighten the lever.  
NOTE: You can swap the positions of  
the inside handlebar ratchets to change  
the two preset settings by approximately  
four inches higher or lower. See Section  
2, Step 2: Attach Handlebar for detailed  
assembly information.  
G
H
DISENGAGE – Lever moved into detent  
slot nearest engine. Use this position to  
disengage power to tines or other PTO  
attachments before transporting, loading,  
turning, or operating in reverse.  
Figure 3-4: REVERSE position;roller  
(G) rests against upper area of the ad-  
justment block (H).  
12  
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Section 3: Features and Controls  
Engine Controls  
WARNING  
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Engine  
Owner’s Manual (included in the tiller  
literature package) to identify the controls  
on your engine.  
The tiller handlebars can be swung out  
30o to the right side for use only with the  
PTO Chipper/Shredder attachment. This  
is done by loosening the mounting bolt  
on the handlebar base. Never operate  
your tiller or attachments, other than the  
PTO Chipper/Shredder, with the handle-  
bars in the right side position. Doing  
so could result in unsafe handling and  
personal injury.  
IMPORTANT: An engine On/Off switch,  
a secondary throttle control, a choke  
lever and a fuel line shut-off control  
may be located on the engine. Refer to  
your Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed  
information.  
WARNING  
Engine Throttle Lever  
To avoid serious personal injury or  
damage to equipment, do not start your  
engine at this time. Complete starting  
instructions are described in Section 4,  
Operation.  
Use the throttle lever (G, Figure 3-1) to  
adjust engine speed as well as to start  
and stop the engine.  
Move the lever away from the STOP  
position before starting the engine.  
Engine speeds are variable and range  
between the FAST and SLOW. Use the  
STOP position to turn the engine off.  
NOTE: A secondary throttle lever is  
located on the front of the 8HP and 10HP  
engines. A separate On/Off switch may  
also be available on the engine. (See  
Engine Owner’s Manual for information.)  
Keyswitch Starter  
The keyswitch starter on electric start  
models (A, Figure 3-5) has three  
positions: OFF, RUN and START. Turn the  
key to START to start the engine. Release  
the key and it will  
return to the RUN  
position. Turn  
A
the key to OFF to  
stop the engine.  
(Another way to  
stop the engine is  
to move the engine  
Figure 3-5  
throttle lever to the  
STOP position.)  
13  
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Section  
4
Operation  
WARNING  
2. Check unit for loose or missing  
Before operating your machine,  
carefully read and understand all safety  
(Section 1), controls (Section 3) and  
operating instructions (Section 4) in  
this Manual, in the separate Engine  
Owner’s Manual, and on the decals on  
the machine.  
hardware. Service as required.  
3. Check engine oil level. See Engine  
Owner’s Manual.  
4. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive lever  
(Figure 4-2) into NEUTRAL position. See  
Section 3, Controls for more information  
on this lever.  
Failure to follow these instructions can  
result in serious personal injury.  
5. Check Safety Guards. All guards and  
covers must be securely in place.  
6. Check air cleaner. See Engine Owner’s  
Manual.  
INTRODUCTION  
Read this Section of the manual  
7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.  
thoroughly before you start the engine.  
Then, take the time to familiarize yourself  
with the basic operation of the tiller before  
using it in your garden. Find an open,  
level area and practice using the tiller  
controls without the tines engaging the  
soil (put tines in Travel setting— Section  
3, Depth Regulator Lever). Only after  
you’ve become completely familiar with  
the tiller should you begin using it in the  
garden.  
8. Check Engine Cooling System. Clear  
cooling fins and air intake screen of  
debris.  
Figure: 4-1  
new engine operation.  
9. Select High/Low Belt Speed range.  
2. After the first 2 hours of new operation,  
check the gear oil levels in the PTO Power  
Unit and the tine attachment transmis-  
sions.  
10. Adjust Handlebar Height.  
11. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline in  
accordance with the directions in the  
separate Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow  
all instructions and safety rules carefully.  
DANGER  
GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND  
ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE.  
3. Check for loose or missing hardware  
on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.  
4. Check tension on forward drive belt  
after first 2 hours of operation.  
WARNING  
Your tiller and its optional PTO Power  
Unit attachments are capable of causing  
serious injury to untrained or careless  
operators.  
Starting and Stopping the Engine  
The following steps describe how to start  
and stop the engine.  
Follow gasoline safety rules in this  
Manual (Section 1) and in the separate  
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to engage Engine Owner’s Manual.  
To avoid serious personal injury or  
property damage, read the Owner’s  
Manual that is provided with any  
optional accessories or attachments  
before using the tiller or PTO Power  
Unit.  
the tines, wheels, or any PTO attachment  
until you have read all of the operating  
instructions in this Section. Also review  
the safety rules in Section 1, Safety and  
the tiller and engine controls information  
in Section 3, Features and Controls.  
Failure to follow gasoline safety instruc-  
tions can result in serious personal  
injury and property damage.  
Pre-Start Checklist  
Make the following checks and perform  
the following services before starting the  
engine.  
Break-In Operation  
Perform the following maintenance during  
the first hours of new operation (see  
Maintenance Section in this Manual and  
maintenance information in the Engine  
Owner’s Manual).  
1. Read the Safety and Controls Sections  
in this Manual. Read the separate Engine  
Owner’s Manual provided by the engine  
manufacturer.  
1. Change engine oil after first 2 hours of  
14  
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Section 4: Operation  
Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever  
Engine Throttle  
Lever  
Forward  
Interlock Levers  
Wheel  
Speed  
Lever  
Depth  
Regulator  
Lever  
Recoil Start Rope  
(at front of engine)  
Tines/PTO  
Clutch Lever  
Figure 4-2:Tiller and engine controls.  
Starting the Engine:  
3. Move the Wheel Speed Lever (Figure  
4-2) to either the SLOW or FAST position.  
Be sure to roll the wheels while shifting the  
lever until the wheels engage.  
10. If equipped with an electric start  
system, turn key to START position to crank  
engine then release when engine starts. If  
the engine does not start right away, do  
not hold key at START for more than a few  
seconds. Release then try again after a short  
pause. Damage to starter motor can occur  
if it is cranked more than 15 seconds per  
minute.  
CAUTION  
T o h e l p p r e v e n t s e r i o u s  
personal injury or damage to equipment:  
NOTE: If using a PTO stationary attach-  
ment, move the Wheel Speed Lever into  
FREEWHEEL and block the wheels to  
prevent the equipment from moving (Figure  
4-29 on page 29).  
• Always place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever into NEUTRAL before starting  
engine, and before engaging wheels,  
tines or other PTO-driven attachments.  
11. If the engine does not start after a  
number of tries, refer to the Engine Owner’s  
Manual for specific instructions.  
4. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into  
DISENGAGE position (Figure 4-2).  
• Never run engine indoors or in  
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.  
Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.  
NOTE: Use the ENGAGE position if you want  
the tines to revolve or to apply power to a  
PTO-driven stationary attachment.  
12. When engine starts, move the Throttle  
Lever to the SLOW position and then  
gradually move choke lever (on engines so  
equipped) to OFF or RUN position.  
• Avoid engine muffler and nearby  
areas. Temperatures in these areas  
5. If engine is equipped with a fuel valve,  
turn valve to OPEN position as instructed  
in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.  
o
may exceed 150 F.  
13. Move the throttle speed control to  
FAST setting when tilling.  
6. If engine is equipped with an ON/OFF  
switch, move the switch to ON.  
Starting Electric Start Engines  
with the Recoil Starter Rope  
You may, at some point, have to start  
an electric start engine with the recoil  
starter rope. Before attempting to do so,  
perform the following applicable steps:  
1. With the engine off, place the Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever (Figure 4-2) in the  
NEUTRAL position. If in the FORWARD  
position, tap the lever sharply upward, it  
should automatically move into NEUTRAL  
position.  
7. Move engine throttle lever (Figure 4-2)  
away from STOP.  
8. Choke or prime engine as instructed in  
the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.  
9. If not equipped with an electric start  
system, place one hand on the fuel tank to  
stabilize the unit when you pull the recoil  
starter rope. Use the recoil starter rope  
to start the engine as instructed in the  
separate Engine Owner’s Manual.  
If you suspect the battery charge is  
weak, and there is no visible damage.  
Disconnect cables from battery and  
clean both cable terminals, and the  
battery posts in accordance with the  
instructions provided in Section 5,  
Battery Care and Maintenance.  
2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the  
Travel position (lever all the way down)  
so that the tines are off the ground. To  
do this, lift up on the handlebars, pull the  
lever (Figure 4-2) back, and push it down  
all the way to the top detent (notched)  
position.  
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Section 4: Operation  
Reconnect the cables and securely  
tighten to battery posts. The engine will STOP position. Then on electric start  
recharge the battery if the battery is still models, turn the key to OFF. Remove the  
2. Move the engine Throttle Lever to the  
Moving the Tiller Forward and Tilling  
1. Start the engine and gradually increase  
engine speed to FAST (see Starting the  
Engine, this Section).  
good.  
key for safekeeping.  
If you suspect the batter is “dead”, or  
if the battery is damaged, disconnect,  
and remove it. Have it checked by a  
qualified technician.  
NOTE: The engine may have a separate  
Throttle Control Lever and ON/OFF switch  
on the engine. These controls can also be  
used to stop the engine. See the Engine  
DANGER  
The Forward Interlock Safety System is  
designed for the operator’s safety. Do  
not disconnect or attempt to defeat the  
purpose of the system. If the system  
malfunctions, immediately contact your  
local authorized dealer or the TROY-  
BILT Technical Service Department for  
assistance. Do not use the tiller or  
the PTO power unit until the Forward  
Interlock Safety System is functioning  
properly. Always test the system before  
using the tiller or PTO power unit.  
If battery has been removed, wrap cable Owner’s manual for information specific  
terminals at end of positive cable with  
electrical tape and secure the cable to  
the battery bracket. This will prevent  
electrical discharge.  
to your engine.  
Operating the Tiller  
When first practicing, keep the Tines/PTO  
Clutch Lever in DISENGAGE position and  
the Wheel Speed Lever in SLOW position.  
Before pulling the recoil starter rope,  
turn the keyswitch to the RUN position.  
Move the Throttle Lever away from  
STOP position and set the choke as  
applicable. See Engine Owner’s Manual.  
CAUTION  
To avoid serious personal injury or  
damage to equipment:  
• Always place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever in NEUTRAL before starting  
engine, and before engaging wheels,  
tines or other PTO attachments.  
Cold Weather Operation  
When temperatures fall below 40 F,  
o
do the following steps to protect your  
engine and transmission from damage:  
2. Test the Forward Interlock Safety  
System. See Testing Forward Interlock  
1. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual  
for motor oil specifications for cold  
weather operation. Use winter blend  
gasoline.  
• Be sure there are no obstacles behind  
you before moving in reverse.  
WARNING  
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever should  
automatically return to NEUTRAL  
when released from REVERSE  
position. If it does not, move lever to  
NEUTRAL manually and discontinue  
use until you adjust the lever. See  
Section 5, Checking and Adjusting  
Reverse Drive System.  
2. Warm up the engine before putting it  
under a load.  
3. Use winter-blend gasoline.  
Keep away from rotating tines. Rotating  
tines will cause injury.  
4. Use the correct weight gear oil in PTO  
Power Unit transmission.  
System, this Section.  
• No reverse motion should occur if  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is not  
held up in REVERSE. See Section 5,  
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Drive  
System for adjustment steps. Do not  
use tiller unless properly adjusted.  
5. Warm up the transmission gear oil  
as follows: With engine running, move  
Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2) to  
FREEWHEEL (then block wheels so they  
can’t roll), put Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
into DISENGAGE, then squeeze one of  
the Forward Interlock Levers and shift  
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to  
FORWARD.  
3. When practicing, set the Depth  
Regulator Lever to Travel position.  
Otherwise, set the Depth Regulator Lever  
to a desired depth.  
4. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to  
ENGAGE position if you want the tines to  
turn. If practicing, leave in DISENGAGE.  
• Always return to NEUTRAL and let  
all motion stop before shifting to  
FORWARD or REVERSE.  
IMPORTANT: Do not move Tines/PTO  
Clutch Lever to ENGAGE unless Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever is in NEUTRAL.  
Tiller damage may occur!  
6. If wheels are frozen to the ground,  
melt ice with warm water.  
The following pages provide guidelines  
for using your tiller effectively and safely  
in various gardening applications. Be  
sure to read Tilling Tips & Techniques, in  
this Section, before you actually put the  
tines into the soil.  
Stopping the Engine and Tiller  
5. To move the tiller forward and engage  
the tines, squeeze and hold either Forward  
Interlock Lever (Figure 4-3) against the  
handlebar grip, then move the Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever down to FORWARD  
position.  
1. To stop the wheels and tines, move  
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever into  
NEUTRAL position and then release both  
Forward Interlock Levers.  
This is a traditional standard-rotating-tine  
(SRT) tiller with forward rotating tines. It  
operates in a completely different manner  
than counter-rotating-tine (CRT) tillers, or  
from front-tine tillers.  
16  
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Section 4: Operation  
Making Turns  
Turning the tiller is easy and just requires  
practice. First find the balance point  
between the engine and the tines by lifting  
up the handlebars (Figure 4-5). Once  
you find the balance point, then let the  
powered wheels do the turning as you  
push sideways on the handlebars in the  
direction of the turn. Practice the turning  
maneuver described here in a large open  
area. Once comfortable turning the tiller,  
you can then take it to the garden area.  
Figure 4-3: Moving tiller forward:  
squeeze one Forward Interlock Lever  
and then move Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever down to FORWARD.  
Figure 4-4: Guide tiller with one hand.  
1. At the end of a row, move the Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever (Figure 4-2) to  
NEUTRAL position and reduce the engine  
speed.  
6. When the tiller moves forward, relax  
and let the wheels power the tiller along  
while the tines dig. Walk behind and to  
one side of the tiller. Walk on the side  
that is not yet tilled (Figure 4-4). Use a  
firm grip on the handlebars but keep your  
arm relaxed.  
Moving the Tiller in Reverse  
IMPORTANT: Do not till while in  
REVERSE.  
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
(Figure 4-2) into the DISENGAGE position.  
1. Shift the Tines/Wheels/PTO Drive Lever  
(Figure 4-2) into NEUTRAL and move the  
Wheel Speed Lever to the SLOW position.  
3. Resume forward operation, and lift  
handlebars until tines are off the ground  
(Figure 4-5). Find the balance point  
between the engine and the tines. Then  
push the handlebars in the direction of  
the turn. Be very careful to keep feet and  
legs away from the tines (which should be  
disengaged). Let the powered wheels do  
the hard work. The inside wheel will pivot  
in place while the outside wheel drives the  
IMPORTANT: Let the tiller move ahead at  
its own pace. Do not push it ahead—this  
reduces operator control and tilling effi-  
ciency. Do not push handlebars down  
in an attempt to dig deeper— this takes  
weight off the wheels, reduces traction,  
and causes the tines to try to propel the  
tiller.  
2. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever (Figure  
4-2) into DISENGAGE position.  
3. Verify that the area behind you is clear.  
4. Lift up the handlebars until the tines  
are off the ground, then shift the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever all the  
way up and hold. You do not need to  
squeeze the Forward Interlock Levers to  
use reverse.  
Stopping Forward Motion and Tines  
1. To stop forward motion, tap Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward into  
NEUTRAL. Then release the Forward  
Interlock Levers. The wheels and tines  
will stop and the engine will continue  
running.  
5. The unit immediately engages in  
reverse. Periodically check behind you  
while holding the handlebars up and the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever in its upper-most  
position.  
2. In an emergency, release all of the  
control levers. This stops forward motion  
and shuts-off the engine.  
Stopping Reverse Motion  
Release the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever– the lever automatically returns  
to the NEUTRAL position. This stops  
the wheels immediately. (The Forward  
Interlock Levers will not stop REVERSE  
motion.)  
CAUTION  
To Help Avoid Personal Injury or  
Damage to Equipment:  
Figure 4-5: Turning the tiller.  
tiller around in the direction of the turn.  
• Be sure no obstacles are behind you  
before operating the tiller in REVERSE.  
To Stop the Engine  
NOTE: Use REVERSE if necessary to turn  
in a limited space.  
Move the engine Throttle Lever to the  
STOP position. Then, on electric start  
models, turn key to OFF. Remove the key  
for safekeeping.  
Disengage the tines, reduce  
engine speed, and move the Wheel  
Speed Lever to SLOW position before  
operating in REVERSE. Avoid using  
FAST wheel speed until you are familiar  
with backing the tiller.  
17  
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Section 4: Operation  
4. When the turn is complete, shift to  
NEUTRAL and lower the handlebars.  
Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever back to  
ENGAGE position and resume forward  
operation.  
Starting and Stopping the Engine, in  
this section. Set engine throttle lever to  
SLOW, and let engine warm up.  
DANGER  
The Forward Interlock Safety System is  
designed for the operator’s safety. Do  
not disconnect or attempt to defeat the  
purpose of the system. If the system  
malfunctions, immediately contact your  
local authorized dealer or the TROY-  
BILT Technical Service Department for  
assistance. Do not use the tiller or  
the PTO power unit until the Forward  
Interlock Safety System is functioning  
properly. Always test the system before  
using the tiller or PTO power unit.  
5. Squeeze and hold just one of the  
Forward Interlock Levers against  
the handlebar grip while moving the  
Wheels/ Tines/ PTO Drive Lever down  
to FORWARD (Figure 4-3). As the tiller  
moves forward, release the Forward Inter-  
lock Lever briefly. The engine should  
start to stall out if the interlock system  
is working properly. If it does start to  
stall, quickly squeeze the lever up against  
the handlebar grip, and then return  
the Wheels/ Tines/ PTO Drive Lever to  
NEUTRAL. Repeat this test to check that  
the engine begins to stall out when the  
other Forward Interlock Lever is released.  
Transporting The Tiller Around  
Your Property  
When the engine is running, the tiller’s  
powered wheels make moving the tiller to  
and from the garden easy. If the engine  
is not running set the Wheel Speed Lever  
to FREEWHEEL position to roll the tiller to  
another location.  
WARNING  
To help avoid personal injury from  
revolving tines, always put the Tines/  
PTO Clutch Lever in DISENGAGE  
position before transporting, loading, or  
unloading tiller.  
in FORWARD.  
How to Check the Interlock System  
6. If the engine does not begin to shut  
off when either Forward Interlock lever is  
released, shut the engine off, remove the  
key (if electric start), and do not operate  
the tiller or PTO power unit until the  
system has been repaired and is func-  
tioning properly.  
The Forward Interlock System has an  
electro-mechanical design, and so is  
subject to normal wear and possible mal-  
function. Check the system for proper  
1. Place the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever in  
DISENGAGE position.  
2. Move Depth Regulator Lever down all the  
way into the Travel setting.  
IMPORTANT: To avoid possible damage  
to the Forward Interlock Safety system,  
do not use high-pressure sprays near the  
wire harness receptacle or neutral plunger  
assembly.  
3. If using engine power, move Wheel  
Speed Lever to either SLOW or FAST, and  
use the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to  
drive the wheels.  
Loading and Unloading the Tiller  
4. If the engine is stopped, move Wheel  
Speed Lever to FREEWHEEL, and  
manually push tiller.  
The following provides information on  
tiller loading, unloading, and requirements  
before loading and unloading the tiller.  
Read the following instructions carefully  
before attempting to load or unload your  
tiller.  
Testing the Forward  
Interlock Safety System  
Figure 4-6: Plug and receptacle of  
Forward Interlock Safety System  
must be securely connected.  
The Forward Interlock Safety System  
is designed to shut the tiller engine off  
immediately if you lose control and  
cannot stop moving FORWARD by  
shifting the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever into NEUTRAL. When you release  
both Forward Interlock Levers, they send  
ground to the ignition system thereby  
stopping the engine. Squeezing one or  
both levers up against the handlebars  
enables the ignition system; therefore,  
you must squeeze at least one lever  
whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever is engaged in FORWARD.  
Before Loading or Unloading the  
Tiller  
operation each time prior to using the  
tiller or PTO power unit.  
• Ramps must be strong enough to  
support the combined weight of the  
tiller and handlers. They should provide  
good traction to prevent slipping; they  
should have side rails to guide the tiller  
along the ramps; and they should have  
a locking device to secure them to the  
vehicle.  
To test the Forward Interlock System:  
1. Move tiller outside to level ground.  
Remove any obstacles.  
2. Check that the Forward Interlock wire  
harness plug, at the bottom of the handle-  
bars (Figure 4-6), is securely connected  
to the receptacle on the top, right side of  
the transmission.  
• Handlers should wear sturdy footwear  
that will help to prevent slipping.  
3. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)  
to SLOW position and move Tines/ PTO  
Clutch Lever to DISENGAGE.  
IMPORTANT: The interlock system also  
prevents the engine from starting if the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever is engaged  
4. Start engine as described under  
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Section 4: Operation  
• Turn the vehicle’s engine off and apply  
its parking brake.  
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
(Figure 4-2) to DISENGAGE position.  
This change is done quickly and without  
tools (Figures 4-9 through 4-13).  
• Position the loading vehicle so that the  
ramp angle is as flat as possible (the  
less incline to the ramp, the better)  
3. Set the Depth Regulator Lever (Figure  
4-2) to the Travel position.  
4. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)  
to SLOW position and reduce the engine  
throttle speed.  
Loading the Tiller  
1. Use loading ramps that are strong and  
wide enough to safely hold the weight of  
the tiller and the operator combined—  
your tiller weighs between 280 and 325  
lbs.  
IMPORTANT: Look behind you before you  
back down the ramp to ensure that all is  
clear. While descending, keep checking  
for obstacles behind you.  
Low Range  
Pulley  
Grooves  
5. Move and hold the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Lever into REVERSE drive and back down  
the ramps (Figure 4-8). Check the wheels  
as you move the tiller backward. Ensure  
that they move down the center of each  
ramp.  
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
(Figure 4-2) into DISENGAGE position.  
High Range  
Pulley  
Grooves  
3. Set the Depth Regulator lever (Figure  
4-2) to the Travel position.  
Figure 4-9: Belt range positions.  
4. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-2)  
into SLOW position and reduce the engine  
throttle speed.  
When the tiller is moving in REVERSE, the  
wheels are powered by a rubber reverse  
disc, not by the belt. Therefore, you have  
only two reverse speeds SLOW and FAST,  
as set with the Wheel Speed Lever.  
5. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever  
(Figure 4-2) into FORWARD position and  
follow the tiller up the ramps (Figure 4-7).  
Check the wheels as you move the tiller  
forward. Ensure that they move up the  
center of each ramp.  
Table 4-1 shows the range of wheel and  
tine speeds available when using the two  
belt speed ranges and the FAST and SLOW  
selections on the Wheel Speed Lever.  
Figure 4-8:To go down ramps, use  
REVERSE drive.  
Table 4-1  
Available wheel and tine speeds at 3000 RPM  
engine speed.  
Changing Speed Belts  
Wheel  
Speed  
Lever  
Your tiller has two belt-driven speed  
ranges – HIGH RANGE and LOW RANGE  
– you pick one or the other by deciding  
which set of pulley grooves to move the  
forward belt into. By moving the belt  
from one speed range into the other, in  
combination with the FAST and SLOW  
wheel speeds, you obtain a choice of four  
different forward wheel speeds and two  
different tine speeds.  
Tine  
Speed  
Belt  
Position  
Wheel  
Speed  
Low Range  
Low Range  
High Range  
High Range  
Slow  
Fast  
Slow  
Fast  
.5 MPH  
1.2 MPH  
.7 MPH  
146RPM  
146RPM  
200RPM  
200RPM  
Figure 4-7:To go up ramps, use  
FORWARD drive.  
1.72 MPH  
6. Prevent tiller from rolling in vehicle.  
Leave Wheel Speed Lever in FAST or  
SLOW position, chock wheels with blocks  
and tie down the tiller.  
Changing Belt From LOW Range  
to HIGH Range  
1. To avoid personal injury, shut off  
engine, let all moving parts come to a  
complete stop, then disconnect spark  
plug wire from spark plug and move it  
away from spark plug before making any  
adjustments. Wait for the engine and  
muffler to cool down.  
WARNING  
Unloading the Tiller  
To help avoid serious personal injury,  
stop the engine, remove the ignition  
key, disconnect spark plug wire and  
move the wire away from the spark  
plug, and let engine and muffler cool  
down before changing belt speeds.  
IMPORTANT: Never unload the tiller  
in FORWARD drive. The tiller could  
tip forward and expose you to the  
tines (which should be disengaged as  
instructed).  
2. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
into NEUTRAL.  
1. Use loading ramps that are strong and  
wide enough to safely hold the weight of  
the tiller and the operator combined—  
your tiller weighs between 280 and 325  
lbs.  
Changing the belt from LOW range into  
HIGH range (or back again) is a matter  
of moving the belt from one set of pulley  
grooves to a second set of pulley grooves.  
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Section 4: Operation  
4. Go to right side of tiller and finish  
seating the belt.  
WARNING  
The HIGH speed belt range position  
combined with a FAST wheel speed  
setting propels the tiller at the fastest  
pace. Reduce the engine throttle speed  
when starting out to help avoid personal  
injury or property damage if using this  
speed combination.  
5. Still holding the lever up in REVERSE  
position, and working from the left side  
of the tiller, move the belt from the lower-  
front transmission groove to the lower-  
rear transmission groove.  
6. Go to the right side of the tiller and  
finish seating the belt (Figure 4-13).  
3. Kneel on left side of tiller. To create  
belt slack, reach over to right side of the  
pulleys and push in at the center of the  
belt with a finger. At the same time, use  
your left hand to work the belt part-way  
onto the lower-front transmission pulley  
groove (Figure 4-10).  
Figure 4-11: Low range to high  
range. Shows moving belt from top-  
rear groove onto top-front groove.  
7. Check both sides of the high range  
pulley grooves to verify that the belt is  
properly seated.  
Changing Belt From HIGH Range to  
LOW Range  
1. To avoid personal injury, shut off  
engine, let all moving parts come to a  
complete stop, then disconnect spark  
plug wire from spark plug and move wire  
away from spark plug before making any  
adjustments. Let engine and muffler cool.  
Figure 4-13: High range to low  
range. Shows moving belt from  
lower-front onto lower-rear groove.  
7. Check that the belt is fully seated in  
the pulley grooves. Check this from both  
sides of the tiller.  
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever into NEUTRAL.  
Choosing Wheel  
and Tine Speeds  
Figure 4-10: Low range to high range.  
Shows moving belt from lower-rear  
groove onto lower-front groove.  
3. Stand on left side of tiller. Use your  
right hand to hold the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever up into REVERSE position.  
Use your left hand to move the belt off  
top-front engine pulley groove to top-rear  
engine pulley groove (Figure 4-12).  
Your tiller has four FORWARD wheel/tine  
speed combinations for handling a variety  
of tilling tasks and gardening jobs. Exper-  
iment with the tine depth, engine speed,  
and wheel/tine speed and determine  
the combination that provides the best  
results. Here are some tips:  
4. Go to the other side of the tiller to  
finish seating the belt onto the pulley  
groove.  
5. Working from the left side of the tiller,  
work the belt as much as possible onto  
the top-front engine pulley groove (Figure  
4-11).  
1. Advance the throttle lever so the engine  
has sufficient power.  
2. When tilling untilled or hard earth, do  
not set the Depth Regulator too deep. The  
tiller will buck and the engine will load  
down.  
6. Finish seating the belt from the right  
side of the tiller.  
IMPORTANT: Proper belt tension is  
important for good performance. See  
Section 5, Drive Belt Maintenance for  
information on belt maintenance schedule  
and procedures.  
3. You will know your settings are ideal  
when the tines break-up the soil easily, the  
engine does not labor, and your progress  
is steady and smooth.  
NOTE: If extra belt slack is needed to  
move the belt, just raise the Wheels/Tines/  
PTO Drive Lever up into REVERSE. This  
lowers the engine pulley, and creates  
more slack.  
See Table 2, Wheel Speed and Belt Range  
Selection Guide for recommendations.  
Figure 4-12: High range to low  
range. Shows moving belt from top-  
front groove onto top-rear pulley  
groove.  
20  
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Section 4: Operation  
TABLE 2-4: WHEEL SPEED AND BELT RANGE SELECTION GUIDE  
IMPORTANT — For correct wheel speed and belt range choices when using attachments or accessories  
other than tines, read the Owner/Operator Manual provided with the attachment or accessory.  
SLOW GEAR, LOW BELT RANGE  
SLOW GEAR, HIGH BELT RANGE FAST GEAR, LOW BELT RANGE  
FAST GEAR, HIGH BELT RANGE  
For:  
• Tilling in sod.  
For:  
For:  
For:  
• Tilling in sod or hard clay.  
• Going over seedbed for the  
• Preparing seedbeds for  
last time before planting crops. planting.  
• Tilling in hard clay.  
• Tilling under standing corn-  
stalks in tough soil conditions.  
• Tilling under cover crops.  
• Preparing a deep seedbed.  
• Tilling in stony soil.  
• Tilling under residues and  
organic matter.  
• Tilling under standing corn-  
stalks (slow, steady speed  
allows time to shred stalks).  
• Tilling under cover crops  
(best wheel speed and belt  
speed range in most soils).  
• Preparing seedbeds (best  
speed choice in most soils).  
• Tilling in stony ground.  
• Covering over seeds in wide  
row or plot planting (lift  
handlebars to avoid going too  
deep).  
• Hilling and furrowing.  
• Making raised beds.  
• Covering seeds with less need  
to hold up the handlebars.  
• Cultivating (tiller travels faster,  
rides higher on the soil; allows  
engine RPM to be reduced;  
handlebars don’t have to be  
raised).  
• Keeping large areas tilled and  
cultivated in the summer.  
• Cultivating (lift handlebars to  
avoid going too deep).  
• Mixing in fertilizers, manure.  
• Building raised garden beds. • Tilling large areas.  
• Tilling organic matter under.  
• Moving tiller quickly.  
• Mixing in fertilizer.  
• Using hiller wings in hard  
soil.  
• Mixing fertilizer and manure.  
• Tilling residues and organics.  
• Tilling organic matter in.  
• Cultivating between raised  
beds with optional hiller/  
furrower attachment.  
• Cultivating between raised  
beds using the optional hiller/  
furrower.  
WARNING  
Tilling Tips & Techniques  
To help avoid personal injury, be aware  
that the tiller can unexpectedly bounce  
up or jump ahead and propel away from  
you if the tines strike hard or frozen  
ground, or buried obstacles like large  
stones, roots or stumps. Always use the  
following precautions to help maintain  
control of the tiller:  
Let the tiller do the work  
With each succeeding pass, adjust the  
depth regulator to dig another inch or  
two deeper. (Watering the garden area a  
few days prior to tilling will make tilling  
easier, as will letting the newly worked  
soil set for a day or two before making a  
final, deep tilling pass.)  
• While tilling, relax and let the wheels  
pull the tiller along while the tines do  
the digging. Walk on the side that is not  
yet finished (to avoid making footprints  
in the freshly tilled soil) and lightly, but  
securely grip the handlebar with just  
one hand (Figure 4-4).  
• Walk behind and to the side of the  
tiller. Use one hand on the handlebars,  
relaxing your arm but with a secure  
hand grip.  
• When cultivating (breaking up the  
surface soil around plants to help  
• Avoid pushing down on the handlebars  
in an attempt to force the tiller to dig  
deeper. Doing so takes the weight off  
the powered wheels, causing them  
to lose traction. Without the wheels  
helping to hold the tiller back, the  
tines will attempt to propel the tiller  
– often causing the tiller to skip rapidly  
across the ground. (Sometimes, slight  
downward pressure on the handlebars  
will help get through a particularly  
tough section of sod or unbroken  
ground, but in most cases this won’t be  
necessary.)  
destroy weeds), use very shallow depth  
settings to prevent injury to plants whose  
roots often grow close to the surface. If  
needed, lift up on the handlebars slightly  
to prevent the tines from digging too  
deeply. Cultivating on a regular basis not  
only eliminates weeds, it also loosens  
and aerates the soil for better moisture  
absorption and faster plant growth.  
• Use shallow depth regulator settings.  
Till gradually deeper.  
• Use slower wheel, tine and engine  
speeds.  
• Clear the tilling area of all large  
stones, roots and other debris.  
• Do not put downward pressure on the  
handlebars. If needed, apply slight  
upward handlebar pressure to keep the  
tines from digging too deeply.  
Avoid tilling wet, soggy soil  
Tilling wet soil often results in large,  
hard clumps of soil that can interfere  
with planting. If time permits, wait a  
day or two after heavy rains to allow the  
soil to dry before tilling. Test the soil by  
squeezing it into a ball. If it compresses  
too easily, it is too wet to till.  
• Avoid contacting hard soil or sod at  
the end of a row – reduce engine speed  
and lift handlebars to raise tines out of  
the soil.  
Tilling depths  
Avoid trying to dig too deeply too  
quickly, especially when busting sod  
or tilling soil that hasn’t been tilled for  
some time. Use shallow depth settings  
(only an inch or two deep) for the first  
passes through the garden area.  
• In An Emergency, stop tines and  
wheels by moving Wheels/Tines/ PTO  
Drive Lever to NEUTRAL. If you cannot  
reach the lever or have lost control, Let  
Go Of The Handlebars and All Controls.  
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Section 4: Operation  
Tilling Tips & Techniques  
the engine (check every one-half hour HINT: For best results, use the HIGH  
of operation). The incline of the slope belt range and SLOW wheel speed lever  
will cause the oil to slant away from its position. See Changing Speed Belts in  
normal level and this can starve engine this section for more information on  
parts of required lubrication. Keep the changing to high range.  
engine oil level at the full point at all  
Avoid making footprints  
When possible, walk on the untilled side  
of the unit to avoid making footprints in  
the freshly tilled soil (Figure 4-4). Foot-  
prints cause soil compaction that can  
hamper root penetration and contribute  
to soil erosion. They can also “plant”  
unwanted weed seeds back into the  
newly tilled soil.  
times!  
A. Tilling up and down slopes:  
• To keep soil erosion to a minimum, be  
sure to add enough organic matter to  
the soil so that it has good moisture-  
holding texture and try to avoid leaving  
footprints or wheel marks.  
Suggested tilling patterns  
• When preparing a seedbed, go over  
the same path twice in the first row,  
then overlap one-half the tiller width  
on the rest of the passes (Figure 4-14).  
WARNING  
When finished in one direction, make a To avoid serious personal injury or  
second pass at a right angle as shown  
in Figure 4-15. Overlap each pass for  
best results (in very hard ground it  
may take three or four passes to thor-  
oughly pulverize the soil).  
damage to the equipment:  
• Do not operate tiller on a slope too  
steep for safe operation. Go slowly  
on any slope. Make sure you have  
good footing.  
Figure 4-14  
Figure 4-15  
• If the garden size will not permit  
lengthwise and then crosswise tilling,  
then overlap the first passes by one-  
half a tiller width, followed by suc-  
cessive passes at one-quarter width  
(Figure 4-16).  
• Wear footwear that increases  
stability and reduces slippage.  
• Do not use FAST wheel speed  
position when on sloped ground.  
• Do not shift the Wheel Speed Lever  
when heading up or down a slope. If  
lever is accidentally moved to FREE  
WHEEL position, the tiller could roll  
out of control.  
• With planning, you can allow enough  
room between rows to cultivate  
(Figure 4-17). Leave room for the  
hood width, plus enough extra room  
for future plant growth.  
• To prevent engine damage due to  
oil starvation (on slopes,the engine  
is inclined and oil moves away from  
surfaces that need lubrication), be  
sure the correct oil level is maintained  
during all uphill/downhill tilling oper-  
ations. Check the level of the oil in  
your engine after every one-half hour  
of operation.  
Tilling on slopes  
If you must garden on sloping ground,  
please follow two very important guide-  
lines:  
1
2
3
1. Till only on moderate slopes, never  
on steep inclines where footing is  
difficult (review safety rules in the  
“Safety” Section of this Manual).  
Figure 4-16  
• When tilling vertically, try to  
make the first pass uphill as  
2. We recommend tilling up and down  
slopes rather than terracing. Tilling  
vertically on a slope allows maximum  
planting area and also leaves room  
for cultivating.  
the tiller digs more deeply going  
uphill than it does downhill. In  
soft soil or weeds, you may have  
to lift the handlebars slightly while  
going uphill. When going downhill,  
overlap the first pass by about one-  
half the width of the tiller.  
Figure 4-17  
IMPORTANT: When tilling on slopes, be  
sure the correct oil level is maintained in  
22  
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Section 4: Operation  
Tilling Tips & Techniques  
Clearing the tines  
The tines have a self-clearing action  
which helps to eliminate most tangling  
of debris. However, occasionally dry  
grass, stringy stalks or tough vines may  
become tangled.  
Follow these procedures to help avoid  
tangling and to clear the tines, if  
necessary.  
WARNING  
Before clearing the tines by hand, stop  
the engine, allow all moving parts to  
stop and disconnect the spark plug  
wire. Failure to follow this warning  
could result in personal injury.  
Figure 4-18  
B. Terrace Gardening:  
C. Tilling across slopes  
without terracing  
• To reduce tangling, set the Depth  
Regulator deep enough to get  
maximum “chopping” action as the  
tines chop the material against the  
ground. Also, try to till under crop  
residues or cover crops while they are  
green, moist and tender.  
• When a slope is too steep or too short  
for vertical tilling, it may be necessary  
to till across the slope and create  
terraced rows. Terraces are rows that  
are cut into the side of a slope, creating  
a narrow, but flat area on which to  
plant.  
• If vertical or terracing gardening  
aren’t practical for you, then you can  
till laterally across a slope. We don’t  
really recommend this method as it  
can create unsure footing and invites  
soil erosion.  
• While power composting, try swaying  
the handlebars from side to side (about  
6" to 12"). This “fishtailing” action  
often clears the tines of debris.  
• Study the terrain to make certain the  
slope is not too steep for safe tilling.  
If possible, make terraced rows or till  
vertically.  
• On a long slope, you can make several  
terraces, one below the other.  
• Terraces should be only 2-to-3 feet  
wide. Digging too far into the side of  
the slope will expose poor subsoil that  
is unproductive for plants.  
• It may be necessary to remove the  
debris by hand (a pocket knife will help  
you to cut away the material).  
• Move the belt into LOW belt range and  
the Wheel Speed Gear Lever to SLOW  
position. As in terrace gardening, start  
at the top of the slope and overlap the  
first pass by half the width of the tiller.  
For added stability, keep the uphill  
wheel in the soft, newly tilled soil. Each  
succeeding terraced area is started  
by walking below the terrace you are  
preparing (Figure 4-19).  
• To create a terrace, start at the top of  
the slope and work down. Go back and  
forth across the first row as shown in  
Figure 4-18.  
• Each succeeding lower terrace is  
started by walking below the terrace  
you’re preparing. For added stability  
of the tiller, always keep the uphill  
wheel in the soft, newly tilled soil.  
Do not till the last 12" or more of the  
downhill outside edge of each terrace.  
This untilled strip helps prevents the  
terraces from breaking apart and  
washing downhill. It also provides a  
walking path between rows.  
Figure 4-19: Make a terrace in just 4  
or 5 passes with the tiller.  
23  
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Section 4: Operation  
Tilling Tips & Techniques  
POWER COMPOSTING  
After power composting, you may want  
to plant a “green manure” cover crop to  
protect the soil during the off-season.  
2. Each new pass should overlap the  
previous pass by one-half the width of  
the tiller.  
Power composting means tilling under  
and burying in the soil all manner of  
organic matter such as crop residues,  
leaves, grass clippings and cover crops.  
This material will decompose during the  
non-growing season and add important  
natural nutrients to the soil.  
Grow a crop of clover, alfalfa, buckwheat, 3. Till as deeply as possible. Pull the  
peas, beans, rye grass, grain, or kale  
and then till it into the soil prior to the  
planting season.  
Depth Regulator all the way UP and  
engage the lowest notch for deep tilling.  
Use either LOW or HIGH belt range and  
SLOW wheel speed gear position.  
Wide-Row Planting  
WARNING  
Let the tilled-in stalks decompose for a  
week or so. Then till in the remaining  
residue as deep as possible.  
The wide-row planting technique is  
spreading seeds anywhere from 10  
inches to 2 feet wide or more. As a  
result, you can grow anywhere from 3 to  
4 times (or more) produce in the same  
space that is normally set aside for an  
area that has narrow, single rows.  
When power composting, do not keep  
the Depth Regulator Lever at a deep  
setting if the tiller jumps or bucks.  
If jumping or bucking occurs, move  
the Depth Regulator Lever down to  
one of the shallower settings and  
then slowly increase the tilling depth  
on later passes.  
Wide-row planting automatically shades  
the ground which keeps weed growth  
down and also holds moisture in the  
soil. And of course, harvesting is much  
easier – everything is right at hand to be  
picked. Preparing wide rows is easy —  
after you prepare the seedbed and mark  
off the rows with string, hand-broadcast  
the seeds as if seeding a lawn (not quite  
as much as lawn seed). Cover with soil  
and tamp the area firmly with a hoe.  
Failure to comply could result in loss  
of tiller control, property damage or  
personal injury.  
Begin by composting crop residues  
such as leftover vines, stalks, stems  
and roots. Power compost these crop  
residues as soon as they finish bearing.  
The sooner this is done, the better, as  
tender green matter is easier to till under.  
Use the deepest depth regulator setting  
possible without causing the engine to  
labor or the tiller to jump ahead.  
Figure 4-20:Tilling under corn  
stalks.  
Tilling Under Corn  
After corn is harvested, the stalks should  
be tilled into the soil while still green.  
Dry plants are more difficult to till under,  
and the roots break loose too easily.  
Standing cornstalks of reasonable height  
can be power composted (Figure 4-  
20). Pushing over (but not uprooting)  
cornstalks will often make it easier for  
your tiller to chop up the stalks. Keep  
the tines clear of excessive tangling by  
“fishtailing” or frequently using reverse.  
Make several passes, then return a few  
days later to finish off any remaining  
stubble.  
IMPORTANT: Do not pull the roots out  
by hand or cut the stalks before tilling.  
Stalks that are firmly anchored by their  
roots are much easier for the tines to  
chop, cut, and work under.  
Soil Enrichment Idea  
Trench Composting — Trench com-  
posting is easy with the optional  
Hiller-Furrower Attachment (Section  
5). Dig a trench, put in all kinds of  
organic matter, and cover with soil.  
Earthworms and microbes will break it  
down quickly.  
1. As you move forward into a row of  
stalks, aim the tiller so that the stalks go  
between the left wheel and the transmis-  
sion case (Figure 4-19). Do not use the  
right wheel because damage could occur  
to the air cleaner, carburetor or throttle  
linkage.  
After tilling under crop residues, add  
more organic matter such as leaves,  
grass clippings and even kitchen scraps.  
When tilled into the soil, this organic  
matter will decompose and add even  
more important nutrients to the soil.  
24  
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Section 4: Operation  
Removing And Replacing The Tine Attachment  
PTO POWER UNIT  
Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever  
Your tiller is a self-contained PTO (Power  
Take-Off) Power Unit that was shipped  
with a tine attachment installed. The tine  
attachment can be quickly removed and  
replaced with other optional attachments.  
The following instructions will familiarize  
you with your PTO Power Unit. Please  
read these pages carefully.  
Wheel  
Speed  
Lever  
Engine  
Throttle Lever  
Forward  
Interlock Levers  
Tines/PTO  
Clutch  
Lever  
Depth  
Regulator  
Lever  
Figure 4-21: PTO Power Unit and tine  
attachment.  
Figure 4-22: PTO Power Unit controls.  
CAUTION  
TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR  
DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT:  
VERY IMPORTANT  
Before operating your PTO Power  
Unit for the first time, make sure that  
you have:  
• Stop the engine, remove the electric  
start key, disconnect the spark plug  
wire and let the engine and muffler  
cool before removing or installing any  
attachment.  
• Read all the safety instructions in  
Section 1 of this Manual and in the  
Manual supplied with any attach-  
ment.  
• Do not place hands, tools, or any  
object near or inside the PTO access  
area while the engine is running.  
• Read the controls information and  
operating procedures for the tiller  
and engine described in Sections  
3 and 4 of this Manual and in the  
Engine Owner’s Manual.  
Figure 4-23: Block up engine.  
• When removing or replacing the tine  
attachment, be careful of the sharp  
edges on the tiller hood. Wear thick  
gloves for hand protection.  
7. Loosen the two swing-out bolts  
(Figure 4-24) that connect the power unit  
transmission to the tine attachment and  
swing out the bolts (Figure 4-25).  
• Read and understand the assembly  
instructions, controls informa-  
tion, and operating procedures for  
the attachment as described in the  
Attachment Owner’s Manual supplied  
with the attachment.  
• When the tine attachment is removed,  
always prop it up with a block to  
prevent the attachment from falling  
forward.  
HINT: Loosening swing-out bolts can be  
difficult. Use an extra-long wrench for  
leverage.  
8. Tip the PTO power unit forward about  
one inch with one hand while pulling the  
tine attachment back (Figure 4-26). The  
guide pin on the power unit will slide out  
of the guide hole in the tine attachment  
(Figure 4-27).  
The following steps explain how to  
remove and replace the tine attachment.  
You will need a 3/4" wrench (minimum  
12" long for leverage).  
3. Place a sturdy support under the  
engine to prevent the engine from tipping  
forward when the tine attachment is  
removed (Figure 4-23).  
4. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
into NEUTRAL (Figure 4-22).  
Removing Tine Attachment  
1. Move the tiller to level ground.  
5. Place Tines/PTO Clutch Lever in  
DISENGAGE (Figure 4-22).  
2. Be sure the engine is stopped, the  
electric start key is removed, and the spark  
plug wire is disconnected and moved away  
from spark plug.  
6. Place Wheel Speed Lever into FREE  
WHEEL (Figure 4-22).  
25  
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Section 4: Operation  
10. The PTO Power Unit is now ready to  
install other powered or non-powered  
attachments. See the attachment's  
Owner’s Manual for installation and  
operation instructions specific to that  
attachment.  
PTO POWER UNIT  
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
WARNING  
To help avoid personal injury or  
damage to equipment, read the attach-  
ment's Owner’s Manual supplied with  
each attachment before installing or  
operating an attachment. Please read  
all control, operation and safety instruc-  
tions.  
Installing the Tine Attachment  
1. Move the two PTO Power Unit swing-  
out bolts outward and slide the washers  
up against the bolt heads.  
2. Remove the support block from under  
the engine and slowly roll the power unit  
back next to the tine attachment. Place  
the support block back under the engine.  
The following are operating instructions  
specifically for the PTO Power Unit. Read  
the separate Owner’s Manual supplied  
with each attachment before attempting to  
assemble, attach, transport or operate the  
attachment. If needed, please contact us  
for a replacement manual. See the back  
cover for customer support information.  
Figure 4-24: Loosening attachment  
swing-bolts.  
3. Remove the dust cap (or protective  
wrapping) from the dog clutch coupling  
on the tine attachment.  
4. Carefully align the guide pin on the  
PTO Power Unit with the alignment hole  
in the tine attachment and bring the two  
units together (Figure 4-27).  
WARNING  
To help avoid personal injury, always  
disengage the Tines/ PTO Clutch Lever  
before towing any attachment.  
Some attachments have a drive shaft or  
a hydraulic pump that is powered by the  
engine on the PTO Power Unit. These  
units are called Stationary Attachments,  
since they remain in one location when  
operating. Attachments can be towed  
to a work site with the PTO Power Unit  
as described in Operating Non-Powered  
Attachments. Other attachments are  
pulled or towed behind the PTO Power  
Unit. These attachments are called Non-  
Powered Attachments.  
Figure 4-25: Moving swing-bolts  
outward.  
IMPORTANT: Store tine attachment in a  
level, upright position to prevent gear oil  
from leaking from the dipstick area.  
Figure 4-27: Aligning guide pin with  
mounting hole.  
Setting Up Stationary Attachments  
5. Move the two swing-bolts into the slots  
of the tine attachment. Alternately tighten  
each bolt until they are tight enough to  
make the concave washers flat. The bolts  
must be very tight – if you have a torque  
wrench, tighten each bolt to between 70  
and 80 ft.-lbs.  
WARNING  
To help avoid personal injury, never  
allow people to ride on any PTO Power  
Unit or attachment.  
Figure 4-26: Pulling attachment  
away from power unit.  
IMPORTANT: The swing-bolts must be  
kept very tight to prevent damaging wear  
to the dog clutch coupling, alignment  
pin or the alignment hole. Check bolt  
tightness every 2-1/2 operating hours.  
1. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to  
DISENGAGE.  
2. Move Wheel Speed Lever (Figure 4-22)  
to FREEWHEEL, then block all wheels  
(Figure 4-29) to prevent the equipment  
from rolling.  
9. To keep the tine attachment dog clutch  
coupling clean, cover with the dust cap  
(on some attachments) or plastic wrap.  
6. Remove the engine support before  
moving the tiller in a forward direction.  
26  
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Section 4: Operation  
3. Verify that the Forward Interlock Wire  
Harness plug at the base of the handle-  
bars (A, Figure 4-28) is connected to the  
Forward Interlock Wire Harness recep-  
tacle (B) on the top right side of the  
transmission.  
position (do not use REVERSE with sta-  
tionary attachments).  
B
3. To stop the PTO Power Unit, tap the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward  
into NEUTRAL position.  
A
Operating Non-Powered Attachments  
(or to Tow Stationary Attachments)  
1. To move forward, squeeze and hold  
one Forward Interlock Lever (Figure 4-30)  
up against the handlebars, and move the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever down to  
FORWARD.  
Starting The Engine  
IMPORTANT: Refer to Cold Weather Oper-  
ation instructions, in this section, before  
operating in temperatures below 40 F.  
C
o
Figure 4-28: Forward Interlock Wiring  
A - PTO Power Unit Interlock Harness  
B - Forward Interlock Receptacle  
C - Attachment Interlock Wire  
1. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever into NEUTRAL. To find NEUTRAL  
(be sure engine is off), push lever down  
and engage it in FORWARD then tap the  
lever upward to automatically move into  
NEUTRAL .  
2. To stop forward motion, tap Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever upward into  
NEUTRAL, then release the Forward  
Interlock Levers.  
3. On the PTO Power Unit, unplug the  
Forward Interlock Wire Harness that leads  
from the base of the handlebars (A, Figure  
4-28) to the receptacle (B) located on the  
top, right side of the transmission cover.  
2. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into  
DISENGAGE position.  
4. On the Stationary Attachment, locate  
the interlock wire (C, Figure 4-28) and  
clean contacts on plug and receptacle (B).  
This connection enables you to operate  
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in  
FORWARD without having to squeeze a  
Forward Interlock Lever.  
WARNING  
To avoid injury,do not run the engine  
in an enclosed or poorly vented area.  
Engine exhaust contains carbon  
monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.  
3. Start Engine. See Starting and  
5. Connect the plug from the Stationary  
Attachment (C, Figure 4-28) to the recep-  
tacle on the PTO Power Unit (B). The  
connection must be tight.  
Stopping the Engine, in the beginning of  
this section, for detailed starting informa-  
tion. Also see the Engine Owner's Manual.  
Figure 4-30: Moving tiller forward:  
squeeze one Forward Interlock Lever  
and then move Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever down to FORWARD.  
4. For non-powered attachments only  
test the Forward Interlock Safety System.  
See Testing the Forward Interlock Safety  
System, in this section, for a procedure.  
Setting Up Non-Powered Attach-  
ments  
1. Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever  
3. To stop forward motion in an  
emergency, release all PTO Power Unit  
controls (stops engine).  
(Figure 4-22) to DISENGAGE.  
Operating Stationary Attachments  
1. Move Tines/PTO Clutch Lever (Figure  
4-22) into ENGAGE.  
4. To move in reverse, reduce the engine  
speed then shift the Wheel Speed Lever  
into SLOW. Move and hold the Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever all the way up.  
Ensure that the area behind you is clear of  
all obstacles, before moving the lever into  
REVERSE.  
2. Move the Wheel Speed Lever (Figure  
4-22) to either SLOW or FAST position  
To do this, roll the PTO Power Unit while  
shifting lever until wheels engage.  
2. To apply power to PTO-driven attach-  
ments, move Wheels/Tines/PTO Lever  
(Figure 4-22) down to FORWARD  
5. To stop moving in REVERSE, release  
the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever.  
Stopping the Engine  
Move the Engine Throttle Lever to STOP.  
Turn keyswitch to OFF on electric start  
models.  
Figure 4-29: Block wheels on PTO Power Unit and stationary  
attachment.  
27  
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Section  
5
Maintenance  
WARNING  
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE  
Before inspecting, cleaning or  
servicing the machine, shut off engine,  
wait for all moving parts to come to a  
complete stop, disconnect spark plug  
wire and move wire away from spark  
plug. Remove ignition key on electric  
start models.  
Before Every Every  
Every  
30  
Hours  
As  
PROCEDURE  
Each  
10  
25  
Noted  
Use Hours Hours  
Check engine oil level  
Every 5  
operating hrs.  
Clean engine cooling system  
Test operation of Forward Interlock  
Section 4  
Safety System  
Failure to follow these instructions  
can result in serious personal injury or  
property damage.  
Forward Interlock Safety System –  
check wire condition,connections  
Check electrical connections  
Recharge battery  
Before/after  
long storage  
Check drive belt tension  
Check nuts and bolts  
After initial  
2 hours  
After initial  
2 hours  
Clean tiller tine shaft  
Lubricate tiller  
Change engine oil*  
NOTE: All references to left, right, front  
and rear of the machine are determined by  
standing behind the handlebars and facing  
the direction of forward travel.  
More often  
in dusty or  
dirty areas  
Clean foam element air filter  
Check paper element air filter  
More often  
in dusty or  
dirty areas  
Check for oil leaks  
After initial  
2 hours  
Check gear oil level in  
both transmissions  
After initial  
2 hours  
Check bolo tines for wear  
Check reverse disc for wear  
Check air pressure in tires  
* During engine break-in period, change engine oil after first 2 hours of operation.  
28  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
4. Check the five bolts securing the tiller  
housing cover to the left side of the trans- into the transmission housing a coating of  
mission (B in Figure 5-3). Gear oil can  
leak from a loose housing cover. To reach gear oil from leaking.  
the bolts, remove the left side tine holder.  
See Bolo Tine Maintenance in this Section  
for tine holder removal directions.  
IMPORTANT: Give screws or bolts that go  
Tighten Bolts and Nuts  
Check for loose or missing hardware  
every ten (10) operating hours. Failure  
to tighten or replace fasteners can cause  
poor performance, equipment damage or  
oil leakage. See your Parts Catalog for  
complete fastener descriptions.  
non-hardening gasket sealant to prevent  
Tiller Lubrication  
Proper lubrication of the tiller’s mechani-  
cal parts is an essential part of good  
maintenance. Lubrication should be done  
after every ten (10) hours of operation.  
5. Check both swing-bolts (C, Figure 5-3)  
that connect the power unit transmis-  
sion to the tine attachment. Both bolts  
should be checked every 2-1/2 hours of  
operation. If loose, wear can occur on the  
locating pin on the power unit, and cause  
enlargement of the locating hole in the  
tine attachment. Using a torque wrench,  
tighten these bolts to 70-to-80 ft.-lbs.  
Most hardware on your tiller is visible.  
Pay particular attention to hardware  
shown in Figures 5-1, 5-2, 5-3 and 5-3A.  
Use ordinary motor oil (#30 weight or  
lighter) where oil is specified. Use a  
quality grease with a metal lubricant  
where grease is recommended (regular  
grease is acceptable). Do not over  
lubricate. If there is a build-up of dirt,  
remove the build-up and re-apply oil or  
grease.  
1. Check the transmission pulley  
mounting bolt (Figure 5-1). If the washer  
behind the bolt head is loose, the bolt  
needs tightening. To do this, first insert  
a punch or thick screwdriver into the  
hole next to the bolt and wedge the tool  
against the side of the motor mount  
casting. This immobilizes the pulley while  
you tighten the bolt.  
6. Check the locknut that fastens the  
shifting linkage to the eccentric shifting  
lever (D, Figure 5-3). Do not tighten the  
locknut against the eccentric lever. It  
should be very close to, but not touching  
the lever.  
2. Check jam nut on left side of neutral  
plunger assembly (Figure 5-2). If loose,  
immobilize bolt head with one wrench and  
use another wrench to tighten the nut.  
7. Check the four bolts and nuts securing  
left and right tine holders to the tine shaft  
(Figure 5-3A).  
3. Check the three rear bearing cap  
screws under the depth regulator  
mounting bracket (A, Figure 5-3). If any  
is loose, it can cause an oil leak or drive  
shaft end play.  
Figure 5-3A:Tine holder hardware  
must be tight.  
A
B
Figure 5-1: Check bolt on transmission pulley.  
C
D
Figure 5-3: Gently tilt tiller forward to check fasteners.  
29  
Figure 5-2: Check jam nut on plunger assembly.  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
IMPORTANT: Do not allow oil or grease to 7. Grease left- and right-side engine  
contact the pulleys, drive belt or reverse mounting bars at the top, the middle, and  
disc. This can cause the belt or disc to bottom (G, Figure 5-4).  
the transmissions. To allow for this oil  
expansion, both the power unit transmis-  
sion and the tine attachment transmis-  
sions have oil relief vents (Figure 5-6).  
slip on the pulleys.  
8. Grease the zerk grease fitting located  
Lubricate the numbered areas in Figures  
5-4 and 5-5, as follows:  
on the pivot point at the end of the Wheel  
Speed Lever (H, Figure 5-4). If Wheel  
Speed Lever has a grease fitting on pivot  
assembly, apply 2-to-3 strokes of multi-  
purpose grease at beginning and end of  
tilling season.  
The vents allow small amounts of oil to  
seep out.  
1. Oil the wheel shaft between the wheel  
hubs and the transmission housing  
(A, Figure 5-4).  
2. Oil all pivoting and connecting points  
on the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever and  
the Wheel Speed Lever (B, Figure 5-4).  
9. Keep the PTO access area well-greased  
(I, Figure 5-5). If the Tines/PTO Clutch  
Lever becomes hard to move, squirt some  
oil into its access hole, and work it back  
and forth to disperse the oil.  
3. Grease the face of the belt adjustment  
block (C, Figure 5-4).  
Figure 5-6: Oil relief vent locations.  
4. Oil the Depth Regulator Lever,  
including the spring in the mounting  
bracket (D, Figure 5-4).  
Transmission Gear  
Oil Maintenance  
If a serious leak is discovered, please  
contact your authorized dealer or the  
Factory Technical Service Department for  
service advice.  
Checking for Oil Leaks  
5. Oil the full length of the throttle cable  
At 25-hour operation intervals, check the  
tiller for oil leaks. Inspect for oil accumu-  
lations on the tiller or the floor where it’s  
stored.  
casing (E, Figure 5-4).  
6. Oil threads on Handlebar Height Adjust-  
ment Lever (F, Figure 5-4).  
Checking Gear Oil Levels  
Every 30 hours of operation, check the  
gear oil level in both the power unit trans-  
mission and the tine attachment trans-  
mission. Operating them while low on  
gear oil (even briefly) can cause serious  
damage to internal components.  
A small amount of oil seepage or wetness  
around a shaft opening  
or cover is no cause for  
F
alarm. But a heavy con-  
centration of oil is more  
serious. You should  
B
E
C
D
tighten all bolts immedi-  
ately, and replace any worn  
seals or gaskets.  
Preparation  
1. The transmissions must be cool,  
since hot gear oil expands and gives a  
false reading.  
G
H
It may be impossible to  
B
A
determine how much oil  
has been lost, so check  
the oil levels in the PTO  
transmission and the  
tine attachment before  
using the tiller again. Add  
any necessary gear oil.  
Serious damage to the  
transmission components  
can result from operation  
when gear oil levels are  
low.  
2. The power unit transmission and the  
tine attachment transmission must be  
connected when checking (or adding)  
gear oil.  
Figure 5-4:Tiller lubrication points  
(wheel removed for clarity).  
Checking the Power Unit Oil Level  
1. Move the tiller to level ground. Move  
the Depth Regulator up so the tines rest  
on the ground.  
I
2. Use a 3/8" wrench to remove the oil  
level check plug on the left side of the  
transmission housing (Figure 5-7).  
If tilling during very hot  
weather, the gear oil may  
heat up and expand inside  
Figure 5-5: Use grease liberally in PTO access area.  
30  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
4. Cold reading (preferred method):  
(Two hours has passed since the tiller  
was used.) Place a 2" x 4" board (on  
edge) under the drag bar– raising the tiller  
and drag bar about 3-1/2" above ground.  
Hot reading: (Tiller was operated for  
more than 30 minutes within the past  
hour.) Do not use the wood prop to  
elevate the tiller.  
5. Follow Steps 4, 5 and 6 given for the  
other dipstick type.  
Figure 5-7: Remove oil level check  
plug. Gear oil should seep out if  
the level is sufficient.  
6. Remove dipstick and check level. It  
should be within or above the “Cold”  
range marking if taking a cold reading. If  
taking a hot reading, the level should be  
within or slightly above the “Hot” range.  
Figure 5-8: Checking gear oil level;  
markings on dipstick (tine attach-  
ment transmission) must face rear.  
3. If the oil level is correct, oil will seep  
out of the check hole (allow extra time in  
cold weather). If it does, the level is fine  
and you should replace the check plug. If  
no oil seeps out, see Adding or Changing  
Gear Oil.  
the drag bar about 4-1/2" above ground.  
This elevation allows an accurate “cold”  
gear oil reading .  
7. If the level is incorrect, see Adding or  
Changing Gear Oil.  
5. Wait two hours with tiller elevated  
Adding or Changing Gear Oil  
Checking the Tine  
Attachment Oil Level  
(allow more time if temperature is below  
For partial fill-ups (just a few ounces or  
less), use SAE 140, SAE 85W-140, or SAE  
80W-90 weight gear oil with an API rating  
of GL-4 or GL-5. For full replacement,  
use SAE 140 or SAE 85W-140 gear oil  
with an API rating of GL-4 only. (At the  
factory, SAE 85W-140 weight gear oil is  
used.)  
o
40 F).  
IMPORTANT: Two different gear oil  
checking procedures for the tine attach-  
ment transmission are described next.  
Use the first procedure if the dipstick in  
your tine attachment has only a ‘Check  
Cold’ marking. Use the second procedure  
if the dipstick has both cold and hot  
markings at the end. First remove the  
dipstick from the tine attachment trans-  
mission (Figure 5-8) to see which  
type dipstick you have. Then replace  
the dipstick with markings on dipstick  
facing to rear.  
6. Loosen and remove transmission  
dipstick (Fig. 5-8). Wipe it clean with a  
rag.  
7. Hold dipstick so its markings face to  
rear of tiller. Lower it straight down into  
the sump hole to touch the drive shaft  
inside (Fig. 5-8). Don’t force or try to  
thread it back in; an incorrect reading will  
result.  
IMPORTANT: Do not use automatic trans-  
mission fluid or engine oil. They are too  
light in weight and will result in transmis-  
sion damage.  
8. Remove dipstick and check oil level.  
It should be anywhere within the cross-  
hatched area or even slightly above the  
Max marking. If correct, replace dipstick  
and remove the boards used as props.  
The gear oil does not need to be changed.  
Do so only if you know, or suspect, it  
is contaminated with dirt, sand or other  
foreign particles.  
For Dipsticks With ‘Check Cold’ Marking  
(Cold means 2 hours has passed since  
the tiller was used.)  
Gear oil is available at authorized  
dealers and most service stations,  
power equipment centers, or farm/heavy  
equipment outlets.  
9. If oil level was low, gear oil must be  
added before using the tiller. See Adding  
or Changing Gear Oil next.  
1. Move the tiller to level ground.  
2. Pull the Depth Regulator Lever back,  
then push it down all the way (to engage  
its top notch).  
For Dipsticks With Hot/Cold Markings  
Capacities: Power unit transmission  
holds approximately 60 ozs.; Tine Attach-  
ment transmission holds approximately  
12-1/2" ozs  
1. Move the tiller to level ground.  
2. Pull the Depth Regulator Lever back,  
then push it down all the way (to engage  
its top notch).  
3. Place a sturdy support under the  
engine to prevent the tiller from tilting too  
far.  
3. Place a sturdy support under the  
engine to prevent the tiller from tilting too  
far.  
4. Now slide three pieces of 2" x 4"  
lumber underneath the drag bar– raising  
31  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Adding Gear Oil to the  
PTO Power Unit Transmission  
3. Slowly add gear oil in the dipstick hole.  
Add 1/2-ounce at a time to avoid overfill-  
ing. It takes about 12-1/2 ounces.  
A
1. Do steps 1 and 2 of Checking the  
Power Unit Oil Level on page 32.  
4. Take dipstick readings frequently. Stop  
when oil reaches “Cold” range marking on  
dipstick. Replace dipstick securely.  
2. Using a 3/4" wrench (or socket),  
remove the bolt securing the handlebar  
base to the top of the transmission (prop  
the handlebars first to prevent them from  
falling).  
Draining and Filling the Tine  
Attachment Transmission  
1. The tine attachment transmission is  
not equipped with an oil drain plug. To  
drain just a small amount of gear oil,  
remove the dipstick and tilt the attach-  
ment forward (first uncoupling it from the  
Power Unit).  
Then, unplug the Forward Interlock wire  
harness receptacle at the bottom of the  
handlebars. Set the handlebar base and  
bolt aside on a clean surface. The bolt  
hole in the top of the transmission is the  
gear oil fill hole (A, Figure 5-9).  
B
2. For complete drainage, remove the  
left-side tine assembly (refer to Bolo  
Tine Maintenance for instructions), then  
remove just one of the lower screws from  
the tiller housing cover (Figure 5-10). To  
speed drainage, remove the tine attach-  
ment dipstick to vent transmission.  
Figure 5-9: Gear oil fill hole (A) and  
gear oil drain location (B).  
3. Slowly pour gear oil through a clean  
funnel into the transmission. Stop when  
gear oil begins to flow from the oil level  
check hole on the left side of the trans-  
mission (B, Figure 5-7).  
3. Using the 3/8" wrench, remove the  
drain plug (B, Figure 5-9). The gear oil  
will drain quite slowly since it is thick.  
After about two quarts have drained, tilt  
the tiller forward so any oil at the rear of  
the transmission will drain out.  
4. Reinstall the oil level check plug.  
Tighten it securely.  
5. Reinstall the handlebars using the  
mounting bolt previously removed. Align  
the handlebars so they point straight  
backwards, not at an angle. Then tighten  
the mounting bolt securely.  
4. Clean the drain plug threads, put non-  
hardening gasket sealant on the threads,  
and reinstall plug.  
5. Refill the transmission with the correct  
amount of gear oil before operating the  
tiller again. When oil seeps from the oil  
level check hole, the right amount of gear  
oil has been added. Replace all plugs.  
6. Reconnect the Forward Interlock wire  
harness to the receptacle. Be certain it’s  
secure.  
Figure 5-10: Remove housing cover  
screw to drain tine attachment  
transmission gear oil.  
7. Test operation of the Forward Interlock  
Safety System. See Section 4 for a  
procedure.  
Adding Gear Oil to the Tine  
Attachment Transmission  
NOTE: If you find a plastic washer on  
the cover screw you remove, discard  
the washer. There is no need to install a  
replacement washer.  
1. Select the right Depth Regulator Lever  
Draining and Filling the  
PTO Power Unit Transmission  
setting:  
a. If filling an empty transmission, raise  
the Depth Regulator Lever so tines  
are on the ground.  
1. Place a shallow pan under the trans-  
mission gear oil drain plug (B, Figure  
5-9).  
3. Once all gear oil has drained, reinstall  
the housing cover screw securely (first  
coat its threads with non-hardening  
gasket sealant).  
b. If topping off the gear oil, move Depth  
Regulator Lever down to engage its  
top notch.  
2. Remove the oil level check plug (Figure  
5-7) with a 3/8" wrench. This vents the  
transmission for faster oil draining.  
4. Be certain to refill the transmission  
with the correct amount of gear oil before  
operating the tiller again.  
2. Remove dipstick from tine attachment  
(Figure 5-8).  
32  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
3. The belt tension is correct if the front  
of the clutch roller is 1/4"-to-5/16" away  
from the face of the upright bracket  
that holds the adjustment block in place  
(Figure 5-12). To measure this distance:  
4. If the belt tension is correct, move the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever back to  
NEUTRAL.  
Drive Belt Maintenance  
Measuring and Adjusting  
Drive Belt Tension  
On a new tiller (or if a new belt is  
installed), the belt tension will probably  
need to be adjusted after the first two (2)  
hours of operation. Thereafter, check belt  
tension every ten (10) operating hours.  
a. Without moving the clutch roller,  
try inserting the 1/4"-thick, slotted  
end of the belt adjustment tool in  
between the roller and the upright  
bracket. (The flat edge of the tool  
must be facing the roller.) Refer to  
Figure 5-13.  
Maintaining the right tension is important  
to good tiller performance and long belt  
life. If too loose, the belt will slip on  
the pulleys, and be unable to deliver full  
power to the wheels and tines. A loose  
belt will also wear prematurely.  
b. If only the slotted portion of the tool  
will fit, the belt tension is correct.  
c. If the slotted part of the tool will not  
While checking belt tension, also inspect  
the belt for cuts, cracks, deterioration,  
etc. Don’t continue using a belt that isn’t  
in good shape. You’re sacrificing tiller  
performance by doing so.  
fit in, the belt is too loose.  
d. If the full thickness (5/16") of the  
tool easily fits in, the belt is too  
tight.  
Figure 5-13: Insert slotted end of  
belt adjustment tool between roller  
and bracket, with the flat side of the  
slotted end facing the roller.  
Tips on keeping the drive belt in top  
condition include:  
5/16"  
1/4"  
Always put the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever in NEUTRAL when the tiller is not  
in use.  
How to Adjust Belt Tension  
Keep tension adjusted correctly.  
Don’t “speed shift” when moving the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever between  
FORWARD and REVERSE.  
Belt Adjustment Tool  
1. As described in the following steps,  
drive belt tension is adjusted by moving  
the adjustment block up or down. Moving  
it down will tighten the belt; moving it up  
loosens the belt.  
Figure 5-11: Use this belt adjust-  
ment tool to measure and adjust  
drive belt tension.  
How to Measure Belt Tension  
HINT: The distance the block moves  
approximately equals the distance the  
roller moves.  
1. Before taking a measurement, be  
sure the linkages and pivot points on the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever are clean  
and lubricated. If there is any binding,  
you won’t get true measurements. Also,  
you’ll need the belt adjustment tool you  
received with your new tiller (Figure  
5-11).  
In most cases, the clutch roller will not  
have been very far out of position, so  
the adjustment block will only need to be  
moved slightly (up or down).  
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever to NEUTRAL position. The clutch  
roller will come to rest anywhere on  
the face of the belt adjustment block,  
depending upon drive belt length and  
current belt tension adjustment.  
2. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever fully down to the FORWARD  
position. The clutch roller at the bottom  
of the lever should be positioned under-  
neath the belt adjustment block (Figure  
5-12). Don’t let the clutch roller move  
during the next few steps. If it moves,  
you’ll get a false belt tension reading.  
Figure 5-12: Shift into FORWARD  
and measure distance between  
roller and upright bracket using the  
belt adjustment tool.  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
3. Insert the belt adjustment tool through  
the hole in the side of the adjustment  
block, spacing the ends of the tool equally  
on both sides (Figure 5-14). Rotate the  
tool so the slotted end faces down.  
Figure 5-16: Hold Drive Lever while  
loosening bolt. Push lever down to  
tighten belt; pull up to loosen belt.  
Figure 5-17: First move belt off the  
lower pulley.  
6. Push the drive lever down if the belt  
needs tightening. Pull the lever up if the  
belt needs to be loosened. Hold the drive  
lever in place and tighten the bolt in the  
adjustment block firmly.  
Figure 5-14:With Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever in NEUTRAL, insert tool  
through hole in adjustment block.  
7. Let go of the drive lever and remove  
the belt adjustment tool from the hole in  
the adjustment block.  
4. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever in FORWARD position. The arms  
of the clutch control yoke will be resting  
on the belt adjustment tool and the clutch  
roller should be engaged slightly beneath  
the adjustment block (Figure 5-15).  
Push Belt UP  
Figure 5-18: Push belt upward to  
create slack.  
8. Check the tension on the belt by  
following the previous instructions “How  
to Measure Belt Tension.”  
NOTE: If the adjustment block is all the  
way down and the measurement between  
the clutch roller and the bracket is less  
than 1/4", then a new drive belt is needed.  
5. Lift the top half of the belt up and over  
the upper pulley and the rubber reverse  
disc, moving it in front of the reverse disc  
(refer to Figure 5-19).  
6. Push the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever down into the FORWARD position.  
This increases the distance between the  
upper and lower pulleys. Next, lift and  
pull the entire belt out between the pulleys  
(Figure 5-20).  
Replacing the Drive Belt  
Removing the Belt  
1. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to  
NEUTRAL position.  
Figure 5-15:With Drive Lever in  
FORWARD position, clutch roller  
should be engaged slightly beneath  
the adjustment block.  
2. While kneeling on the right side of the  
tiller, create slack in the belt by reaching  
over to the left side of the pulleys and  
pushing in on the center of the belt with  
your finger.  
Replacing the Drive Belt  
1. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in  
FORWARD position.  
5. Use one hand to hold the drive lever in  
FORWARD while using a 9/16" wrench to  
loosen (don’t remove) the bolt at the back  
of the belt adjustment block (Figure 5-16).  
The adjustment block should be free to  
move either up or down.  
2. Squeeze the belt in the middle and  
insert one end in between the pulleys  
(Figure 5-20).  
3. Use your right hand to move the belt  
down and away from the lower pulley, in  
the direction of the engine (Figure 5-17).  
4. Push the belt upward to create slack in  
the belt (Figure 5-18).  
34  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Reverse Disc Inspection  
The reverse disc is made of steel with a  
special, long-lasting rubber compound  
bonded to the disc rim. Since this is a  
wearing part, it should be inspected after  
every 30 operating hours.  
1. Measure the width of the outside  
edge of the disc as shown in Figure 5-  
22. Replace the disc before the rubber  
edge wears to a thickness of 1/8" or less.  
Failure to do so could cause the steel  
underneath the rubber to damage the  
transmission pulley.  
Figure 5-21: Seat belt in upper  
pulley, then in lower pulley (High  
Range position shown).  
Figure 5-19: Move top half of belt  
over pulley and reverse disc.  
7. Move the bottom half of the belt into  
the HIGH Range groove of the lower  
pulley (groove closest to engine— Figure  
5-21). If extra slack is needed, hold up  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever while  
moving the belt. Verify the belt is seated  
properly on the pulleys.  
8. To move the belt to the LOW Range  
position, see Changing Belt Speeds in  
Section 4.  
9. After installing the belt, check and  
adjust for correct belt tension as  
explained previously.  
Figure 5-20: Shift into FORWARD  
and remove the belt.  
Figure 5-22: Measure the edge of  
the reverse disc for wear.  
3. Push belt forward then down until it is  
looped over the lower pulley (Figure  
5-18). Do not yet seat it in either of the  
lower pulley’s grooves.  
Reverse Drive  
System Maintenance  
These instructions explain how to inspect,  
replace or adjust the various reverse drive  
components.  
2. Look for big cracks or missing chunks  
of rubber from the disc. If so damaged,  
the disc should be replaced immediately.  
HINT: A blunt object, like a ruler, can help  
you push the belt downward if needed.  
IMPORTANT: Extend the life of the reverse  
disc by always pausing in NEUTRAL  
before shifting between FORWARD and  
REVERSE. Also – the reverse disc is not  
suited for continuous or sustained reverse  
operation. Use reverse sparingly.  
But first, here’s how the reverse drive  
system works: When you raise the  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever up in  
REVERSE position, this lowers the rub-  
berized reverse disc (it’s attached to the  
engine drive pulley) until this rotating  
disc contacts the transmission drive  
pulley. The friction between the rotating  
reverse disc and the transmission pulley  
causes the transmission drive shaft to be  
powered in a counterclockwise direction  
(as viewed from the operator’s position  
behind handlebars). The drive shaft then  
turns the wheels and tine shafts in a  
reverse direction.  
4. Move the top half of the belt up and  
over the rubber reverse disc, but do not  
seat it in either of the grooves in the top  
pulley.  
5. Place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever in NEUTRAL.  
6. Move the top half of the belt into the  
HIGH Range groove (groove closest to  
the engine) on the top pulley (Figure  
5-21).  
35  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
and engine mount move down to press  
on the reverse adjustment bolt (Figure 5-  
24). This action compresses the reverse  
spring and plunger assembly, requiring  
you to hold the lever up in REVERSE.  
When you release the lever, the spring  
automatically pushes the lever back into  
NEUTRAL position.  
instructions that follow). Moving adjust-  
ment bolt upward will also solve problem  
of a tiller that goes into REVERSE on its  
own.  
Replacing the Reverse Disc  
Follow these steps to replace the reverse  
disc. (If your tiller has a Bumper Attach-  
ment mounted, it must be removed first.)  
Removing the Reverse Disc  
1. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in  
NEUTRAL position.  
Reverse  
Disc  
The spring and plunger assembly is  
designed to prevent the reverse disc  
from making contact with the transmis-  
sion pulley until you shift into REVERSE.  
When the lever is in NEUTRAL, the switch  
body on the bottom of the engine mount  
tab should be resting squarely on top of  
the reverse adjustment bolt (Figure 5-  
24). The reverse adjustment bolt can be  
adjusted up or down to correct a number  
of reverse drive operating problems, as  
explained next.  
2. Wedge a 5/16"-thick board between top  
of engine pulley (avoid contacting reverse  
disc) and cast iron housing next to it.  
This immobilizes pulley.  
3. Use a 9/16" wrench to loosen the  
mounting bolt shown in Figure 5-23.  
Remember to immobilize the pulley with  
the wood wedge while loosening the bolt.  
If necessary, pry the disc from the pulley  
with the tip of a screwdriver. Back the  
bolt out as far as possible. Then angle  
the disc a little to remove it. Bring the  
bolt and lockwasher along with the disc.  
Figure 5-25: Checking Reverse  
Disc in NEUTRAL.  
3. Use your left hand to hold Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever up in REVERSE,  
while briefly pulling out engine start  
rope. The reverse disc should turn lower  
pulley (see Figure 5-26). If not, or it  
requires a lot of pressure to hold lever  
up in REVERSE, then reverse adjustment  
bolt must be adjusted downward. When  
correctly adjusted, the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever should pop out of reverse  
when the lever is released, but not require  
exceptional effort to hold it up in reverse  
position.  
IL  
O
Switch Body  
Adjustment  
Bolt  
Spring &  
Plunger  
Both Pulleys  
Should Turn  
Figure 5-24: Spring and plunger  
assembly.  
Figure 5-23: Removing Reverse Disc.  
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Disc  
1. Verify that linkages for Wheels/Tines/  
PTO Drive Lever are lubricated with oil  
and engine mount bars and belt adjust-  
ment block are lubricated with grease.  
(See Tiller Lubrication in this section.)  
Installing a New Reverse Disc  
1. Do steps 1-through-3, described previ-  
ously, in reverse.  
2. Tighten mounting bolt securely,  
and check for correct operation — see  
Checking and Adjusting Reverse Drive  
System.  
Figure 5-26: Checking Reverse Disc  
in REVERSE.  
2. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in  
NEUTRAL. Briefly pull out engine recoil  
start rope while watching reverse disc.  
The disc should turn, but lower pulley  
should not (Figure 5-25). If reverse disc  
turns lower pulley, or if it is located closer  
than 3/16" to the pulley, reverse adjust-  
ment bolt should be adjusted upward (see  
4. Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
to REVERSE and then let it go. The lever  
should return to NEUTRAL. If not, the  
reverse adjustment bolt will have to be  
adjusted upward.  
Checking and Adjusting  
Reverse the Drive System  
When the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
is moved up into REVERSE, the engine  
36  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Adjusting Reverse Drive:  
with a second wrench (Figure 5-28).  
or Factory Technical Service Department  
for assistance.  
1. Place Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in  
FORWARD position.  
7. Place a chalk or pencil mark on the top  
edge of the plunger retaining bolt. Now,  
while watching the mark, loosen the bolt  
3/4-turn (Figure 5-29). Do not exceed a  
3/4 turn (this would disengage the bolt  
Bolo Tine Maintenance  
2. On left side of tiller, put a 1/2" wrench  
on the plunger retaining bolt and another  
1/2" wrench on the jam nut next to it  
(Figure 5-27). While holding the bolt  
steady, loosen the jam nut (counterclock-  
wise) until it touches the bolt head.  
Checking Tines for Wear  
Inspect the tines for wear or damage  
after every 30 operating hours. The  
rate of wear depends upon hours of use  
and soil conditions. With use, the tines  
Adjustment  
Bolt  
Worn  
New  
Jam Nut  
Jam Nut  
Figure 5-28: Loosen jam nut before  
turning reverse adjustment bolt.  
Retaining Bolt  
Figure 5-30: Check for wear  
every 30 operating hours.  
from the locking groove in the side of the  
plunger).  
get shorter, narrower and more pointed  
(Figure 5-30). If badly worn, they lose the  
ability to till deeply.  
Figure 5-27: Hold bolt steady while  
loosening or tightening jam nut.  
3. Turn the bolt in until it tightens against  
the plunger inside the spring. The bolt  
must be tight to prevent plunger from  
turning – but be careful not to overtighten  
and break the bolt.  
4. Place a 7/8" wrench on the head of  
the reverse adjustment bolt and a 9/16"  
wrench on the jam nut below it (Figure 5-  
28). Hold the bolt steady while loosening  
the jam nut three or four turns.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Figure 5-29: Loosen plunger  
retaining bolt about 3/4-turn, then  
tighten jam nut against plunger  
housing.  
5. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever to NEUTRAL. The switch body  
on the bottom of the engine mount tab  
(Figure 5-24) should be resting squarely  
on top of the reverse adjustment bolt, and  
the reverse disc should be at least 3/16"  
away from the transmission drive pulley.  
If the reverse disc is any closer than this,  
raise the reverse adjustment bolt (turn it  
counterclockwise).  
Figure 5-31: Replace tines when gap  
between inner tines is 5" or more  
(normal gap is 3").  
8. Hold the plunger retaining bolt steady  
with a wrench while tightening the jam  
nut against the side of the plunger housing  
(Figure 5-27).  
Worn tines leave an ever-increasing gap  
in the middle of a tilled row. The normal  
gap is 3" between the tine tips – replace  
the tines when the gap widens to 5"  
(Figure 5-31).  
9. Check the action of the reverse disc as  
explained previously.  
IMPORTANT: If the above adjustments  
have not corrected an improperly working  
reverse drive, contact an authorized dealer  
Tines can be replaced individually or as a  
complete set. See replacement instruc-  
tions that follow.  
6. Check that reverse disc is at least 3/16"  
away from transmission drive pulley.  
Then hold reverse adjustment bolt steady  
with one wrench while tightening jam nut  
37  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
Single Tine Replacement  
3. Remove the two bolts and nuts  
securing each holder (Figure 5-33).  
Removing and Replacing A Tine  
Holder Assembly  
WARNING  
4. Use a soft mallet to drive the holder  
off the tine shaft. (Use a heavy hammer  
and block of wood to knock off the immo-  
bilized tine holder.)  
The tines or tine hood edges may be  
sharp. Wear thick gloves to protect  
your hands from cuts or scrapes.  
WARNING  
The tines or tine hood edges may be  
sharp. Wear thick gloves to protect  
your hands.  
• Wear safety goggles to protect your  
eyes. When loosening hardware, do  
not hit a wrench with a metal tool–  
this could shatter the tool or wrench,  
sending metal particles into your eyes.  
5. When the holder is off, clean all dirt  
and debris from the shaft and the holder.  
Apply fresh grease to the tine shaft.  
1. Move the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever to NEUTRAL, the Wheel Speed  
Lever to either FAST or SLOW position,  
and the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever to  
ENGAGE.  
Replacing Tines Holder Assembly  
1. Replace the holder so the sharp tine  
edges face forward (toward front of tiller).  
Tap tine holder back on the tine shaft.  
2. Gently tilt the tiller forward until the  
engine rests on the ground.  
The 16 Bolo Tines are mounted eight  
per side on left-side and right-side tine  
holders. Here’s how to replace the tines  
and holders as assemblies.  
2. Grease the threads on the mounting  
bolt(s). Install and tighten the bolt(s)  
securely.  
3. Raise the hood flap at the back of the  
tiller and tie it up with string.  
4. Before removing a tine, note in which  
direction the bent tip points. The new tine  
must be installed in the same direction.  
Removing Tine Holder Assembly  
1. Follow steps 1-through-3 in Single Tine  
Replacement above.  
5. Use two 9/16" wrenches to remove the  
two bolts and nuts securing the tine to the  
tine holder plate (Figure 5-32). Use pen-  
etrating oil on the hardware if it is rusted or  
hard to remove.  
2. Identify the tine holders as left-side  
and right-side holders – they must be  
replaced on the same side from which  
they were removed. Use a piece of chalk  
or a grease pencil to mark them L and R.  
Tine Shaft  
Figure 5-32: Removing a single tine  
requires taking off two bolts and  
two nuts.  
6. Mount the new tine exactly the way the  
old tine was positioned. (The sharp edge  
of the tine, which enters the soil first, must  
face forward when above the tine shaft.)  
Replace the bolts and nuts and tighten  
them securely.  
Right-Side  
Tine Holder  
Left-Side  
Tine Holder  
Figure 5-33: Tine Holders.  
38  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
the engine when it is low on oil will  
quickly ruin the engine.  
system other than adjusting or replacing  
the spark plug.  
Tine Shaft Maintenance  
After every 10 operating hours, remove  
the left- and right-side Bolo Tine holders  
and clear away dirt and debris that have  
accumulated on the tine shaft or inside  
the tine holders. Please follow this main-  
tenance recommendation, as debris can  
cause premature wear to the tine shaft  
and its oil seals. Refer to the previous  
tine holder removal instructions. After  
cleaning away any debris and removing  
old grease from the tine shaft, apply fresh  
grease to the tine shaft.  
It is recommended that you change the oil  
every ten (10) operating hours and even  
sooner when operating in extremely dirty  
or dusty conditions. Refer to the separate  
Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed  
service instructions.  
Spark Plug Maintenance  
The spark plug must be in good condition  
for proper engine operation. Remove and  
inspect the plug every 50 operating hours  
or annually, whichever occurs first.  
The correct electrode gap is .030". Check  
the gap with a feeler gauge. Do not use a  
spark plug if the porcelain is cracked, the  
Air Cleaner Maintenance  
The engine is equipped with a dual  
element air cleaner that filters the air twice electrodes are pitted or burned, or if other  
before it enters the carburetor to mix with visible damage is present.  
the fuel.  
NOTE: Do not wire brush or sandblast  
the spark plug to clean it – loose particles  
can enter the engine, causing damage!  
Tire and Wheel Maintenance  
The engine air cleaner filters dirt and  
dust out of the air before it enters the  
carburetor. Operating the engine with  
a dirty, clogged air filter can cause poor  
performance and damage to the engine.  
Never operate the engine without the air  
cleaner installed. Inspect and service the  
air cleaner more often if operating in very  
dusty or dirty conditions.  
Check tire air pressure every 30 operating  
hours. The recommended pressure for  
tilling is 10 psi to 20 psi. Both tires should  
be inflated equally. (Unequal pressure can  
cause the tiller to pull to one side.)  
To replace the plug, first tighten it  
securely by hand, then use a spark plug  
wrench to tighten the plug an extra 1/4  
turn.  
Wheel Shaft Maintenance  
Battery Care and Maintenance  
The battery is sealed and is maintenence-  
free. Acid levels cannot be checked.  
After every 10 operating hours, remove  
the wheels and clear away dirt and debris  
that has accumulated on the wheel  
shaft Please follow this maintenance  
recommendation, as debris can cause  
premature wear to the wheel shaft and its  
oil seals.  
It is critical that the filters be kept clean  
and properly installed at all times. See  
the location of the air cleaner assembly on  
your engine by referring to Figure 5-39 or  
Figure 5-40.  
• Always keep the battery cables and  
terminals clean and free of corrosive  
build-up.  
• After cleaning the battery and  
terminals, apply a light coat of  
petroleum jelly or grease to the  
terminals and cover both terminals  
with the rubber boots.  
1. Prop the transmission up with a sturdy  
block to raise the wheels off the ground.  
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s litera-  
ture supplied with your tiller for complete  
air cleaner service and maintenance infor-  
mation.  
2. Remove the wheels by removing the  
hex bolt and lock nut which secures each  
to the wheel shaft.  
Throttle Cable Maintenance  
WARNING  
The throttle lever settings are factory-  
adjusted, so unnecessary adjustments  
should not be made. However, if the  
engine does not start or stop, or respond  
immediately to various throttle lever  
settings, then adjustments may be  
WARNING  
When removing the battery, always  
disconnect the negative (-) cable first  
followed by the positive (+) cable.  
Reverse this procedure when reinstall-  
ing the battery.  
Wear safety goggles when driving the  
roll pin into or from the wheel hub to  
protect your eyes from the possibility of  
flying metal particles.  
necessary. Please refer to the engine  
manufacturer literature supplied with your  
tiller for specific adjustment instructions.  
After cleaning away any debris and  
removing old grease, apply fresh grease  
to the wheel shaft before re-installing the  
wheels.  
Ignition System Maintenance  
Engine Oil Maintenance  
Check the engine oil level before starting  
the engine each day and after each five (5)  
hours of continuous operation. Running  
Your engine is equipped with electronic  
ignition. It does not have a condenser  
or points, so there is no need to perform  
any regular tune-up maintenance on this  
39  
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Section 5: Maintenance  
Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come  
to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Remove ignition  
WARNING  
key, if so equipped.  
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.  
where ignition sources are present (space  
heaters, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.).  
Storing Your Tiller  
When your tiller won’t be used during the  
off-season, prepare it for storage with the  
following steps:  
Testing the Forward  
Interlock Wiring System  
The wiring circuit for the Forward  
Interlock Safety System is designed to  
ground out the engine’s ignition system.  
Inspecting Forward Interlock  
Wiring System  
Check the Forward Interlock wiring  
system every ten (10) operating hours,  
for tight connections and to see that the  
insulation on the wires is unbroken (to  
prevent the system from shorting out).  
1. Clean the tiller and engine.  
There are three switches in the circuit  
which, when open, let the engine run.  
One switch is on the neutral plunger tab  
of the cast iron motor mount. This switch  
is open whenever the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever is in NEUTRAL or REVERSE  
positions. The other two switches are  
located inside the handlebars, directly  
above the two Forward Interlock Levers.  
The switches are wired so when squeezed  
(open) the engine will run. There is  
a fourth switch located in the wiring  
harness connector on the top, right side  
of the transmission cover. It warns you if  
the connection is not mated by not letting  
the engine run while the Wheels/Tines/PTO  
Drive Lever is in FORWARD.  
2. Do routine tiller lubrication and check  
for loose hardware.  
3. Protect the engine from deterioration  
or damage by referring to the engine  
storage instructions in your engine  
manual literature.  
1. Check insulated wire harness from  
lower ends of handlebars to wire harness  
connector on top, right side of transmis-  
sion cover. Be sure connector is secure.  
4. When engine is still warm, drain oil  
from engine crankcase. Refill with fresh  
motor oil.  
2. Check insulated tubing from connector  
to cast iron motor mount/belt shroud.  
5. Protect internal cylinder against rust  
by removing spark plug and pouring  
one ounce of clean engine oil into spark  
plug hole. Then slowly pull out recoil  
start rope 2 or 3 times to distribute oil  
internally. Replace spark plug, but do not  
reconnect plug wire. Pull rope until resis-  
tance is felt — let rope rewind.  
3. Check the wire leading from the tubing  
over to the switch assembly mounted  
on top of the tab on the cast iron motor  
mount–belt shroud. Also check the  
second wire that leads to the throttle  
cable mounting bracket on the right side,  
forward portion of the engine.  
1. A broken or disconnected wire could  
let the engine run without you having to  
press one of the Forward Interlock Levers.  
6. Charge battery (electric start option).  
Store battery in cool, dry location.  
2. A bare wire touching tiller or engine  
metal could ground out the engine’s  
ignition.  
7. Move Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever to  
NEUTRAL position. Keep tiller in a clean,  
dry area.  
3. A switch that has failed allows the  
engine to run. Or it may prevent the  
engine from running.  
8. Never store tiller with fuel in fuel tank  
in an enclosed area where gas fumes  
could reach an open flame or spark, or  
Refer to the Troubleshooting section if  
your Forward Interlock Safety System is  
not operating correctly.  
40  
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting  
PROBLEM  
CHECK OR TEST  
Engine  
won’t start  
Engine shuts off when  
Engine does not shut off  
when Forward Interlock  
Levers are released while  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever is in FORWARD  
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive  
Lever is shifted into  
FORWARD  
(Check or test in sequence shown  
until problem is resolved.)  
Throttle Lever in START position  
X
X
Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever  
in NEUTRAL position  
Forward Interlock Wire Harness  
connector securely mated  
X
X
X
Forward Interlock Levers not being  
squeezed prior to shifting Wheels/  
Tines/PTO Drive Lever to  
FORWARD position  
Visually inspect for bare, broken  
or disconnected wires  
X
X
X
X
X
X
Check handlebar wire harness  
Check transmission wire harness  
B. Lever  
shifts into  
Trouble-  
shooting Procedures  
FAST wheel gear, but not into SLOW wheel  
gear–  
Linkage  
1 Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever:  
• Connecting rod at end of lever might be  
backwards, or bent in toward transmission  
housing and hitting it. Other shifting linkage  
might be bent. Straighten or replace linkage  
(Figure 5-43).  
• Clutch inside transmission may be binding  
(Problem 2-A).  
A. Lever does not stay in FORWARD–  
• Drive belt may be too tight. Raise belt  
adjustment block a little (Sect. 5).  
• Clutch pawl spring at end of lever may be  
overstretched. Install new spring.  
B. Lever hard to shift into REVERSE–  
• Check reverse disc for wear (Sect. 5).  
• Check adjustment of reverse disc and/or  
reverse spring and plunger assy. (Sect. 5).  
• Clean and re-lubricate motor mount bars,  
belt adjustment block and linkages on lever  
(Sect. 5).  
Eccentric  
C. Lever moves freely, but won’t shift in or  
out of gear–  
Connecting Rod  
• Eccentric shifting pin inside transmission  
may be broken (rare) or worn. Disconnect  
linkage from eccentric lever and try moving  
eccentric lever by hand (Figure 5-43). If  
lever moves easily, contact the Technical  
Service Department.  
Figure 5-43: Check connecting rod,  
shifting linkage and eccentric lever.  
C. Tiller stays in REVERSE when lever is  
released–  
Lubricate eccentric lever at rear of power  
unit transmission (Figure 5-43). If rust  
is present, use penetrating oil and work  
eccentric lever back and forth by hand.  
• Lubricate linkage to Wheel Speed Lever to  
eccentric lever (Figure 5-43).  
• Clutch inside transmission may be binding.  
Disconnect linkage from eccentric lever and  
work eccentric lever by hand. If difficult  
or impossible to move, it may be due to  
a damaged keyway on the wheel shaft.  
Contact Technical Service Department.  
• Lubricate washers and castle nut on pivot  
of lever. If necessary, remove roll pin and  
back nut off 1/6th turn. Replace roll pin and  
test the movement.  
• Lubricate motor mount bars, belt adjust-  
ment block and linkages on lever (Sect. 5).  
• Check adjustment of reverse spring and  
plunger (Sect. 5). If problem persists,  
contact Technical Service Department.  
3 Wheels and Tines Won’t Turn:  
• Review operation of controls (Sect. 3 & 4).  
• Check condition and adjustment of drive  
belt and reverse disc (Sect. 5).  
• Mounting bolt for transmission drive pulley  
may be loose. (See Figure 5-1). If so, drive  
belt or reverse disc will turn pulley, but pulley  
won’t turn main drive shaft.  
D. Lever sticks in FORWARD–  
• Lubricate motor mount bars, belt adjust-  
ment block, and linkages on lever (Sect. 5).  
If problem continues, contact the Technical  
Service Department.  
E. Lever hard to shift into FORWARD–  
• Follow advice for Problem 1-D. Also check  
for possible bent motor mount bar that could  
be binding in engine mount holes.  
• Worm gears that drive wheel and tiller  
shafts may be worn.  
4 Wheels Turn, But Tines Won’t:  
• Tines/PTO Clutch Lever must be in ENGAGE  
position (Sect. 3).  
• Tines/PTO Clutch Lever may need adjust-  
ment.  
• Key for dog clutch on tine attachment main  
drive shaft may be missing, broken.  
• Worm gears that drive the tine shaft may  
be worn.  
2 Wheel Speed Lever:  
A. Lever hard to shift, or sticks in FAST or  
SLOW wheel gear positions–  
• Apply grease to zerk fitting (if so equipped)  
with grease gun until grease appears around  
washers.  
41  
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Appendix A: Troubleshooting  
• Hardware holding tine holders to tine  
shaft may be missing or broken. To check,  
remove holders (Sect. 5).  
• Key for bronze worm gear on tine attach-  
ment main drive shaft may be missing or  
broken.  
(Sect. 5).  
• *Fuel tank shut-off valve (if so equipped)  
not in fully Open position.  
• On Briggs & Stratton engine, On/Off switch  
not in ON position.  
12 Poor Traction:  
• Bar tread tires, tire chains, or wheel  
weights may be needed.  
Electric Start Engines Only:  
13 Gear Oil Leak From Power Unit Or Tine  
Attachment Transmissions:  
• See Section 5.  
• Electrical connections loose or shorted to  
metal frames, brackets or covers (Sect. 5).  
• Battery discharged (Sect. 5).  
5 Tines Turn, But Wheels Won’t:  
• Check operation of Wheel Speed Lever  
(Problem 2).  
• Hi-Pro key inside wheel clutch may be  
missing, broken. If so, clutch will not turn  
wheel shaft.  
• FAST and SLOW speed wheel gears may  
be worn. If only one gear is worn, there will  
only be one wheel speed.  
• Worm gear that drives pinion shaft and  
pinion gears may be worn.  
• FAST and SLOW speed pinion gears may  
be worn. If only one gear is worn, there will  
only be one wheel speed.  
• Drive “dogs” on sides of wheel clutch may  
be worn or broken. If only one side of clutch  
is affected, there will only be one wheel  
speed.  
14 Engine Lacks Power:  
• Electric starter motor faulty.  
• *Air cleaner restricted with dirt and/or oil.  
• Spark plug wire loose or damaged. Spark  
plug worn or fouled.  
• Engine under excessive work load. Use  
SLOW wheel speed and LOW belt range.  
• *Throttle cable may be loose or misad-  
justed.  
17 Engine Shuts Off When Wheels/ Tines/  
PTO Drive Lever Is In Forward:  
• See Troubleshooting the Forward Interlock  
Safety System in Section 5.  
• Short in key switch or key switch wire  
harness.  
• Check starter motor mounting bolts for  
looseness. Have Authorized Engine Service  
Dealer inspect the starter motor.  
• Verify that engine isn’t running with choke  
partially engaged.  
• *Check Carburetor adjustment.  
• *Engine overheating. Check oil level and  
clean cooling fins. Oil may be very dirty. Let  
hot engine cool before restarting.  
• *Dirt or water in fuel or fuel system.  
• Engine crankcase low in oil, or overfilled  
with oil. Check and adjust level.  
• *Low engine compression.  
• Check oil level for correct amount.  
18 Engine Overheats  
• Clean the engine cooling fins, shroud and  
covers (Sect. 5).  
• Check for broken flywheel fins (under  
engine shroud). See Authorized Engine  
Dealer.  
6 Wheels And Tines Turn On Top Of  
Ground, But Stop Or Hesitate In Soil:  
• Drive belt may be loose (Sect. 5).  
• Mounting bolt for transmission drive pulley  
may be loose (Figure 5-1).  
15 Engine Difficult To Start:  
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever not in  
NEUTRAL position.  
• Fuel tank low or empty.  
• *Dirt or water in fuel or fuel system.  
• *Fuel line is restricted.  
• *Choke control not set properly.  
• *Spark plug worn or fouled (weak spark).  
• *Air cleaner restricted with dirt and/or oil.  
• *Throttle cable adjustment.  
• Engine throttle lever not free to move  
through its full operating range.  
• Throttle wire and its linkage are binding, or  
are bent and not free to move.  
19 Engine Runs Erratically:  
• Water or dirt in gasoline or carburetor.  
• Carburetor may need adjustment. See  
Engine Owner’s Manual.  
• *Spark plug fouled or dirty. Spark plug  
wire loose or damaged.  
7 Tiller Jumps While Tilling:  
• Depth Regulator Lever set too deep for soil  
conditions. Use a shallower setting.  
• Engine throttle speed too fast.  
• Tiller wheel speed too fast for soil condi-  
tions. Change to LOW belt range or SLOW  
wheel speed.  
• *Loose or cracked carburetor.  
• Governor linkage not adjusted properly  
or binding. See Authorized Engine Service  
Dealer. Don’t attempt to repair by yourself.  
• Check pan gasket, engine seals and drain  
plugs for leaks. See your Authorized Engine  
Service Dealer.  
8 Depth Regulator Lever  
Difficult To Move:  
• Lubricate spring assembly and depth  
adjustment bar (Sect. 5).  
• Check for bent depth adjustment bar.  
20 Engine Runs Well,  
But Labors Under Tiller Load  
• *Check governor linkage for freedom of  
movement.  
• Check throttle setting and carburetor  
adjustment. See Engine Owner’s Manual.  
• Tilling depth is possibly too deep. To  
correct, lower the depth regulator lever.  
• Possible worn tiller worm gear or loose  
drive shaft.  
• Low engine compression.  
16 Engine Won’t Start:  
• See Troubleshooting the Forward Interlock  
Safety System in Section 5.  
• Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever not in  
NEUTRAL position.  
• Fuel tank low or empty. Or fuel line  
restricted or clogged.  
• *Choke control improperly set.  
• *Water or dirt in fuel, and /or fuel system.  
• *Spark plug fouled or worn. Spark plug  
wire loose or damaged.  
• *Carburetor may need adjustment.  
• *Air filter clogged with oil or dirt.  
• Carburetor float faulty (or float valve  
leaking)– if so, tap side of bowl lightly with  
handle of screwdriver (or similar object).  
• Stale fuel clogs carburetor, and valves.  
Drain old fuel and add new fuel.  
9 Wheel And Shaft Move  
Out To One Side:  
• Snap ring on wheel shaft may be  
dislodged. Raise wheels off ground and  
check for back and forth play in shaft. If  
there is play, one or both snap rings is loose.  
10 Tiller Pulls To One Side:  
• Check tire pressure (Sect. 5).  
21 Key Switch Will Not  
Start The Engine  
• Check battery terminals for corrosion  
(Sect. 5).  
11 Tine Holder Bolt  
Breaks Or Loosens:  
• Earlier models have tine holder keys.  
Check that keys are in keyways of tine shaft.  
Without key in holder, left-side tine bolt will  
tighten and break; right-side bolt will loosen  
• Discharged battery (Sect. 5).  
• Defective solenoid.  
42  
*See Engine Owner’s Manual or contact an authorized engine dealer for information.  
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Appendix B: Attachments & Accessories  
Troy-Bilt® PTO Log Splitter  
290-258-081  
Row Marker Attachment  
Wheel Weights  
290-266-081  
290-257-081  
®
The Troy-Bilt PTO Log Splitter provides  
Do you like very straight, even, neat rows  
in your garden? If so, the Row Marker is  
a must attachment. Hooks quickly to the  
Hiller/Furrower attachment– eliminates  
the need for string, stakes, measuring  
tape, etc. You’ll like the straight rows it  
helps you make if you lay out furrows, dig directly to the tiller wheels.  
compost trenches, or make raised beds.  
The Row Marker extends from 28"-to-  
493¼4", letting you vary the width between  
rows to suit the crop you’re planting.  
Help increase traction by putting extra  
weight directly on the wheels. They  
reduce bucking and jumping when deep-  
tilling in heavy soil. They’re shipped  
empty– fill them with material like  
concrete, sand, gravel, etc. They bolt  
you with a convenient and easy means  
of splitting about a half a cord of wood  
per hour when working alone. When  
connected to the PTO Power Unit, the  
tiller’s engine runs the splitter’s hydraulic  
pump, providing you with 13 tons of  
steady, unhurried and predictable splitting  
force.  
Wrap-Around Bumper Guard  
As an added benefit, the power-driven  
mobility provided by the PTO Power Unit  
allows you to move the splitter to and  
from your wood pile, over to a neighbor’s  
place, or along the woodpile to a fresh  
supply of logs.  
290-255-081  
Order this Bumper Guard by itself or  
receive it as one of the components if you  
order the combination Dozer/ Snow Blade  
attachment. Protects the engine from  
damage by wrapping around and protect-  
ing many of the engine components. 1"  
diameter, high-strength steel tubing.  
V-Sweep Cultivator  
290-260-081  
The V-Sweep Cultivator is a specialized  
tool designed for between-row crop  
cultivation. Instead of stirring the soil, it  
slices through just below the surface to  
eliminate practically any weeds in its path.  
Features include a 15 second splitting  
cycle; can handle log sizes up to 26" long;  
a two-stage hydraulic pump that auto-  
matically shifts into low gear to provide  
four-times greater pressure when needed;  
slim-cut wedge design for splitting green,  
stringy wood; and an auto-control valve  
for automatic return stroke.  
Hiller/Furrower Attachment  
290-250-081  
The Sweep mounts easily to the optional  
Tow Hitch Attachment at the rear of the  
PTO Power Unit. The blade is made  
of high carbon, heat treated steel and  
measures 2" wide (overall wing span is  
20").  
The most popular attachment because it  
does so many jobs. Mounts to the rear  
of the depth regulator bracket. Furrower  
blade easily makes plant rows, trenches,  
ditches to 8" deep. When hiller wings  
are attached to furrower blade, attach-  
ment makes hilled rows and raised bed  
gardens. Converts from a furrower to a  
hiller and back again, in seconds, without  
tools.  
Dozer/Snow Blade Attachment  
290-259-081  
The unique way the Sweep works,  
skimming along just underneath the soil’s  
surface without turning the soil over,  
makes this the ideal tool for use in dry,  
dusty conditions where it is important to  
keep soil disturbance to a minimum. And,  
because of its 20" wide cutting path, it  
does an effective cultivation job at a fast  
speed.  
In the winter, moves up to one foot of  
light snow (or 6"-to-8" of heavy snow);  
at other times use it to move or spread  
sand, gravel, loose dirt, grain, sawdust,  
etc. Attaches easily to the front of the  
Wrap-Around Bumper Guard. Set the  
blade to several angles. Weighs 41-lbs.;  
measures 15" x 32".  
The Sweep’s natural shallow cultiva-  
tion helps to prevent weed seeds from  
being brought to the soil’s surface. This  
shallow cultivation feature also means  
there’s less chance of damaging the roots  
of your vegetables. For deeper or more  
shallow cultivating, the blade depth can  
be changed with a simple adjustment..  
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Section  
6
Parts List  
WHEELS/TINES/PTO DRIVE LEVER & YOKE ASSEMBLY  
See Page 50  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
647-04006 Lever Assembly–Wheels/Tines/  
PTO Drive (Includes Ref. 17) ........  
9
10  
GW-2165-2 Yoke–right side.............................  
1
1
1
3
3
3
3
1
1
GW-2164  
Link–yoke pivot, left & right,  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1908156  
710-0805  
GW-2447  
1177548  
712-3010  
Spring–clutch pawl.......................  
Bolt–hex hd., 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"......  
Bushing–3/8" ................................  
Lockwasher–external tooth, 5/16".  
Nut–hex, 5/16"-18.........................  
6-7/8" long.................................  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-16 x 1" ..............  
Lockwasher–spring lock, 3/8".......  
Washer–flat, 3/8", S.A.E................  
Nut–hex, 3/8"-16...........................  
2
6
6
6
2
6
1
11  
12  
13  
15  
16  
17  
710-0514  
736-0169  
736-3050  
712-3017  
686-04006 Roller Assembly............................  
GW-2165-1 Yoke–left side ...............................  
GW-1113-1 Bushing–spacer, 19/64" (.300").....  
GW-2595 Knob .............................................  
44  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
FORWARD INTERLOCK SYSTEM  
See Page 46  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
629-04017 Engine Wire Harness Assy–forward  
interlock system (Incl. one red  
and one black wire, plug con-  
3
6
7
8
1186246  
GW-9205  
725-0157  
GW-2551  
Nut–hex, 7/16"-20.......................  
Clip–for plug connector ..............  
Tie–plastic...................................  
Handlebar Wire Harness Assy–  
(see page 46, Ref. No. 20).......  
1
1
2
nector, neutral switch and PVC  
tubing. Parts not available  
1
separately................................  
Lockwasher–external tooth, 7/16"......1  
1
2
GW-9971  
45  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
HANDLEBAR ASSEMBLY  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
GW-9548  
Bolt–Hex hd., flanged self-locking  
Grade 5, 1/2-13 x 3-1/2" ...........  
Knob–handlebar height adjustment  
Ring–retaining (tolerance ring).....  
Stud–handlebar height adjustment  
Nut–hex, 1/2"-13...........................  
17  
18  
19  
20  
777I20946 Decal–Forward Interlock Lever .....  
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
725-0157  
GW-9219  
GW-2551  
Tie–plastic.....................................  
Plug–wire harness retainer ...........  
Handlebar Wire Harness Assy–  
forward interlock system...........  
Handlebar Switch–forward  
2
3
4
5
6
GW-9119  
GW-9120  
GW-1881  
1186233  
1
21  
GW-9250  
GW-1021-1 Clamp–left, handlebar height  
adjustment ................................  
GW-2542-1 Ratchet–left, handlebar height  
adjustment ................................  
GW-2542-2 Ratchet–right, handlebar height  
adjustment ................................  
1900855010 Clamp–right, handlebar height  
adjustment ................................  
GW-2534A Base–handlebar mounting ............  
649-04020 Handlebars....................................  
GW-9125  
777I22026 Decal–Control panel......................  
1918111  
1186389  
interlock system........................  
Lock Pin–handlebar switch...........  
Switch Housing–handlebar switch  
Switch Assembly ..........................  
(Includes Ref. 21-23)  
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
22  
23  
GW-9385  
GW-2543  
GW-2563  
7
8
9
24  
710-0779A Screw–pan head, #10-16 x 1/2",  
thread-forming ..........................  
Screw–phillips head, 10-32 x 1/2",  
thread-forming ..........................  
786-04003 Lever–Operator Presence Control.  
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
24A GW-9733  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
1
2
2
25  
26  
27  
Grip–handlebars ...........................  
GW-9199  
GW-9514  
Pivot Pin–forward interlock lever..  
Retaining Ring–klip ring–forward  
interlock lever............................  
Return Spring–fwd interlock lever  
Bolt–curved hd, GR5, 1/4-20 x 2" .  
Nut–hex, flanged self-locking, whiz  
lock, 1/4"-20..............................  
Throttle Control & Cable, 66”........  
2
2
1
1
28  
29  
GW-9387  
1
1
777D07724 Label – Troy-Bilt Horse .................  
777D06527 Label – Troy-Bilt Horse “Big Red.  
16  
1909286  
46  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
DEPTH REGULATOR & TINE HOOD ASSEMBLIES  
See Page 54  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
710-3005  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-16 x 1-1/4"........  
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
12  
13  
14  
GW-9929  
1904563  
Washer–flat, 5/16" ........................  
Hood.............................................  
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
GW-1113-1 Bushing–19/64" (.300" lg.)............  
710-04049 Bolt–flanged hex, 5/16-18 x 5/8"...  
712-04065 Nut–hex, 3/8"-16...........................  
1900864  
GW-9120  
GW-9119  
GW-2121  
710-0599  
777I22027 Decal–hood, operating inst. (LH)..  
777S32049 Decal–hood, operating inst. (RH) .  
GW-2525  
715-04034 Pin–roll (spirol) 1/4" x 1"...............  
750-04556 Spacer, Split..................................  
732-04320 Spring...........................................  
Bar–depth regulator......................  
Ring–retaining ..............................  
Knob–depth regulator...................  
Bar–drag, depth regulator.............  
Screw–thread-forming,  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
Bracket..........................................  
710-0597  
Bolt–hex hd., 1/4-20x1" ................  
1/4-20 x 1/2"..............................  
2
2
712-04064 Locknut–1/4"-20 ...........................  
10  
710-04043 Bolt–flanged hex hd.,  
5/16-18 x 3/4"............................  
47  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
WHEEL SPEED LEVER, BELT DRIVE SYSTEM, ENGINES, WHEELS  
See Page 62  
See Page 52  
48  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
WHEEL SPEED LEVER  
27  
GW-9303  
Key–engine pulley, 3/16"sq. x 2-1/2" 1  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
GW-9362  
GW-9838  
GW-9934  
GW-9932  
GW-2628  
1902240  
GW-9317  
GW-1515  
Pin–spring, 1/8" ............................... 1  
Nut–castle (slotted), 1/2"-20............ 1  
Washer–shoulder, 1/2"..................... 1  
Washer–disc spring......................... 2  
Lever–wheel speed shift .................. 1  
Knob–wheel speed shift lever .......... 1  
Pin–cotter, 3/32" x 1"........................ 1  
Connecting rod, wheel speed –shift  
lever (Incl. Ref. 7 & Ref. 9)........... 1  
Swivel–connecting rod .................... 1  
Washer–flat, 5/16", S.A.E................. 1  
ENGINES AND ENGINE MOUNT  
710-0376  
712-3010  
GW-1034  
GW-9147  
710-04458 Bolt–hex hd., 5/16-24 x 1-1/8"......... 4  
736-0119 Lockwasher–spring lock, 5/16"........ 4  
1916274001 Mount– engine to tiller..................... 1  
736-3052 Washer, flat, .406 x 1.0 x .105 ........ 1  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
36  
Bolt–hex hd., 5/16-18 x 1", Grade 5...... 2  
Nut, hex, 5/16-18.............................. 1  
Bar–engine mounting ...................... 2  
Plug–thread protector, red plastic.... 2  
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
17  
18  
GW-1033  
736-0275  
777S30647 Decal–hot surface warning .............. 1  
WHEEL ASSEMBLIES  
Screw, Hex, 1/4-20 x 1-1/2"............. 2  
714-04048 Pin–hair cotter ................................. 1  
43  
45  
710-0606  
712-0158  
710-0514  
736-0169  
736-3050  
Locknut–hex hd., 5/16"-18............... 1  
Bolt–flanged hex hd., 3/8-16 x 1"..... 5  
Lockwasher–spring lock, 3/8".......... 5  
Washer–flat, 3/8", S.A.E................... 8  
634-04231 **Wheel & Tire Assy – 16 x 4:6 x 8"  
tubeless tire with valve stem, on one-  
piece steel rim.............................. 2  
46  
712-04064 Nut, Hex Flange, 1/4-20 ................... 2  
GW-1113-1 Bushing–spacer, 19/64" (.300"lg.).... 4  
GW-9120  
Ring–retaining (tolerance ring)........ 1  
BELT DRIVE SYSTEM  
Block– belt adjustment, 3-7/8"......... 1  
Rod– belt adjust., 7" with  
19  
20  
GW-2102  
GW-2100  
measuring gauge.......................... 1  
777I20942 Decal– engine stabilization............... 1  
21  
22  
23  
24  
1100012  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-24 x 1-1/2"........... 1  
756-04171 Disc–reverse.................................... 1  
GW-9245  
Belt–forward drive (no substitute  
due to extra strength required)..... 1  
25  
26  
26  
619-04124 Pulley–engine power take off........... 1  
736-04192 Shim–engine pulley, 1/16"  
736-04187 Shim–as above, 1/32"  
As Req'd  
As Req'd  
*
Contact an authorized engine dealer, Troy-Bilt dealer or the Factory for replacement engine  
information.  
Contact an authorized engine dealer for engine service or parts. Refer to the engine name-  
plate for engine model and type information.  
** For correct traction and directional control, Bar Tread Tires should be mounted on the  
tiller so the closed end of the “V” in the tire tread on top of the tire faces forward.  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
POWER UNIT TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLIES  
See Page 50  
50  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
TRANSMISSION COVER & SHIFT LEVER  
BRACKET ASSEMBLIES  
35  
36  
GW-9301  
1100004  
Key–3/16 sq. x 1"..........................  
Bolt–hex hd., 5/16-24 x 3/4", self-  
locking flange, Grade 5..............  
Washer–disc spring (concave) .....  
3
1
2
1186299  
Bolt–hex hd., #10-32 x 3/8",  
1
1
self-locking flange .....................  
Knob–tines/PTO clutch lever,  
tapered, plastic..........................  
Detent Plate–tines/PTO clutch lever  
3
37  
38  
39  
GW-9944  
GW-2107  
GW-9463  
GW-2263  
Pulley–transmission drive, cast iron 1  
1
1
GW-50027 Washer–flat, hardened shoulder  
1-1/4" ........................................  
1186310  
3
4
1
777I20945 Decal–operating instructions,  
detent plate................................  
40  
Bolt–hex hd., 1/4-20 x 3/4", front  
bearing cap................................  
1
4
3
1
1
5
7
1186349  
Bolt–flanged hex hd.,  
3/8-16 x 1-1/2" ..........................  
Bolt–flanged hex hd.,  
42  
43  
45  
718-04007 Cap–front bearing.........................  
721-04044 Seal–oil, front bearing cap............  
GW-1224-1 Shim–front bearing cap, .  
1186329  
5/16-18 x 3/4", Grade 5 ............  
Washer–flat, 5/16", S.A.E..............  
Bracket–shift levers ......................  
Pin–spring, 1/8" ............................  
Nut–castle (slotted), 1/2"-20, call  
Tech Service for tightening  
instructions. ............................  
Washer–shoulder, 1/2" .................  
Washer–disc spring......................  
Lever–wheel speed shift ...............  
Cover–power unit transmission....  
Gasket–transmission cover...........  
Bolt–hex hd., 5/16-18 x 1", Grade 5,  
(remove with care)...................  
Nut–hex, 5/16"-18.........................  
Spring–neutral plunger (remove  
with care)..................................  
1
1
1
1
010" thick ............................. As Req'd  
GW-1224-2 Shim–as above, .030" ..............As Req'd  
GW-1224-3 Shim–as above, .005" .............. As Req'd  
GW-1224-4 Shim–as above, .062" .............. As Req'd  
9
10  
11  
12  
736-0275  
GW-2149  
GW-9362  
GW-9838  
45  
45  
45  
46  
GW-1714  
Bearing & Race  
(incl. one bearing GW-9400  
and one cup (race) GW-9401)...  
Shaft–main drive, power unit........  
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
GW-9934  
GW-9932  
GW-2178  
GW-2523  
GW-1123  
710-0376  
47  
48  
49  
GW-2655  
721-04030 Seal–oil, drive shaft, rear ..............  
GW-9517  
Retaining Ring–(snap ring), internal........1  
PINION SHAFT ASSEMBLY  
50  
51  
52  
53  
715-0121  
Pin–roll (spirol), 1/4 x 2"...............  
718-04006 Plug–retaining, pinion bearing......  
GW-9604 O-Ring–retaining plug...................  
2
2
2
1
1
19  
20  
712-3010  
1901439  
GW-1132-1 Shim–retaining plug, 1-1/64" inner  
1
21  
22  
23  
24  
GW-1035  
1901440  
1186393  
1902004  
Plunger–neutral (remove with care) 1  
dia., .033" thick (on right side  
only one GW-1132-1 shim is also  
used between bearing and washer,  
Clip Ring–retains neutral plunger .  
Nut–hex, flange locknut, 3/8"-16...  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-16x1-1/2",  
1
1
Ref. No.’s 54 & 55).................... As  
threaded full length ...................  
1
Req'd  
53  
53  
GW-1132-2 Shim–same as GW-1132-1, .062". As  
TINES/PTO CLUTCH LEVER ASSEMBLY  
786-04002 Lever–eccentric, tines/PTO clutch.  
Req’d  
GW-1132-3 Shim–same as GW-1132-1, .010" As  
Req'd  
25  
26  
27  
1
1
710-3013  
Bolt–hex hd., 1/4-20 x 1/2" ...........  
741-04008 Bushing–tines/PTO clutch lever  
eccentric shaft...........................  
54  
55  
56  
GW-9404  
GW-1126  
GW-1222  
Bearing–ball, pinion shaft .............  
Washer–pinion shaft.....................  
Stem Pinion–slow speed gear &  
shaft ..........................................  
Ring–retaining, external................  
Worm Gear–bronze, wheel drive...  
Key–3/16" x 5/8"............................  
Gear–fast speed pinion .................  
(continued on page 53)  
2
2
1
2
28  
29  
GW-9516  
Retaining Ring–(snap ring),  
external .....................................  
Eccentric–shaft, tines/PTO clutch  
lever ..........................................  
Lockwasher–hi-collar, 1/4"............  
Screw–socket hd., 1/4-20 x 3/8"...  
1
1
1
1
1
GW-2461  
57  
58  
59  
60  
GW-9502  
GW-2656  
GW-9300  
GW-1233  
1
1
1
30  
31  
GW-9911  
GW-9672  
DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY  
33  
34  
716-0101  
1909139  
Retaining Ring–external................  
Dog Clutch–power unit .................  
1
1
51  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
POWER UNIT TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLIES  
(Continued from page 53)  
See Page 50  
52  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
(continued from page 53)  
WHEEL SHAFT ASSEMBLY  
75  
76  
611-04003 Eccentric Shaft–wheel speed  
shifting ......................................  
1
1
61  
62  
63  
721-04031 Seal–oil, wheel shaft.....................  
1909950 Retaining ring–external.................  
GW-1166-1 Shim–wheel shaft, 1-1/64" inner  
dia., .062" thick.......................... As  
Req’d  
GW-1166-2 Shim–as above, .030" thick ....... As  
Req’d 79  
2
2
GW-1441  
GW-2109  
GW-9359  
Spring–eccentric shaft..................  
TRANSMISSION HOUSING  
78  
Housing–power unit transmission  
(Empty housing without covers,  
shafts, gears, seals, etc.)...........  
Pin–alignment...............................  
63  
63  
63  
63  
64  
1
1
GW-1166-3 Shim–as above, .015" thick ........ As  
Req’d  
MISCELLANEOUS PARTS  
GW-1166-4 Shim–as above, .010" thick ........ As  
80  
81  
1100067  
GW-9928  
Bolt–hex hd., 1/2-13 x 2" Grade 5.  
Washer–disc spring (concave),  
domed side faces bolt head.......  
Post–with threaded hole for Ref.  
No. 80 .......................................  
Plug–pipe, 1/4" .............................  
Plug–red plastic, thread protector  
Clip–forward interlock system plug  
connector (see page 47)............  
2
2
Req’d  
GW-1166-5 Shim–same as above, .005" thick As  
Req’d  
Bushing–bronze, wheel shaft  
bearing ......................................  
911-04025 Shaft–wheel, 15-5/8" w/ Key.........  
714-04014 Key–Hi Pro, 1/4" x 1-3/4" ..............  
82  
GW-2126  
GW-1086  
2
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
3
83  
84  
85  
1105620  
GW-9122  
GW-9205  
65  
66  
67  
68  
69  
70  
GW-1223  
GW-1232  
GW-1237  
GW-1112  
Gear–slow speed, wheel drive ......  
Gear–fast speed, wheel drive........  
Dog Clutch–wheel drive................  
Pin–clutch guide, 1/4" diameter ....  
1
1
86  
777I20944 Decal–forward interlock wire  
harness .....................................  
TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY  
618-04372 Transmission –power unit  
ECCENTRIC SHAFT ASSEMBLY  
(Does NOT include Ref. 35-39. Does  
NOT include Shift Lever and Bracket  
Assemblies, Ref. 3, 4, 10, 15, 85, 86,  
71  
72  
1911372  
Pin–roll, 3/16" x 1-1/4" (spirol) .....  
619-04000 Lever–eccentric, wheel speed  
shifting ......................................  
1
1
1
etc.)...........................................  
1
73  
74  
721-04034 Seal–oil, eccentric shaft................  
GW-1442  
Pin–eccentric shaft, wheel speed  
shifting ......................................  
1
53  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
TILLER ATTACHMENT TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLIES  
NOTE 1: THESE SCREWS HAVE A SPECIAL SEALING DESIGN  
THAT CAN NOT BE REUSED WITHOUT RISKING THE  
LOSS OF TRANSMISSION OIL. IF THESE SCREWS  
ARE LOOSENED OR REMOVED, THEY MUST BE  
REPLACED WITH NEW HARDWARE.  
54  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
2
4
5
6
1915068  
Screw–self-sealing,1/4"-20 x 5/8"  
5
1
1
2
thick ..........................................Req'd  
GW-1224-3 Shim–same as above, .005" As  
thick ..........................................Req'd  
GW-20873 Cover–tiller housing .....................  
711-04082 Shaft–tiller tine .............................  
741-3037  
1901976  
17  
17  
18  
Ball Bearing...................................  
Worm Gear–bronze, tiller tine  
shaft ..........................................  
Key–tiller tine shaft, woodruff key.  
GW-1224-4 Shim–same as above, .062"  
As  
thick ..........................................Req'd  
1
1
2
GW-1714  
Bearing & Race.............................  
(incl. one bearing GW-9400  
2
7
8
GW-1104  
721-04035 Seal–oil, tiller tine shaft ................  
and one cup (race) GW-9401)  
Shaft–main tiller drive...................  
721-04030 Seal–oil, drive shaft, front.............  
GW-9517 Retaining Ring–internal ................  
19  
20  
21  
GW-2653  
1
1
1
TILLER DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY  
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
716-0101  
1909138  
GW-9301  
GW-2127  
Retaining Ring–external................  
Dog Clutch–tiller drive shaft .........  
Key–3/16" x 1"...............................  
Spring–dog clutch ........................  
2
1
1
1
1
3
TRANSMISSION HOUSING AND DIPSTICK  
23  
1901971  
Housing–tiller attachment (Empty  
housing without shafts, gears, seals,  
dipstick, etc.) ................................  
Dipstick–oil, tiller attachment .......  
TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY  
GW-1138-1 Shim–dog clutch, 1/16"(.62") thick .  
1915069  
Screw–self-sealing,1/4"-20 x 7/8"  
1
1
24  
1909157  
15  
17  
GW-1115  
Cap–rear bearing ..........................  
1
As  
GW-1224-1 Shim–front bearing cap, .010"  
thick ..........................................Req'd  
GW-1224-2 Shim–same as above, .030" As  
618-04003 Transmission –Tiller  
(Includes Ref. 1-24) ..................  
1
17  
55  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
BOLO TINE ASSEMBLIES  
3
3
56  
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Parts List  
MODELS 683F. E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
STANDARD TILLING TINES  
CUSTOM TILLING TINES  
1
1901975  
Tine Holder–welded steel, fits  
left or right sides .....................  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-16 x 2" ............  
Special hard-faced, high-chrome carbon alloy tines that are  
thicker than standard Bolo Tines. These tines better resist  
the abrasive action of rocky, gritty or sandy soil as compared  
to standard Bolo Tines, and are especially suited for custom  
tilling or market gardening.  
2
4
2
3
6
710-3096  
712-3000  
Locknut–hex, 3/8"-16.................. 20  
GW-1270-1 Bolo Tine–single, left hand.  
Tine is stamped either “EL" or  
“AL". ........................................  
GW-1270-2 Bolo Tine–single, right hand.  
Tine is stamped either “ER" or  
8
---  
GW-10802 Custom Tilling Tine Kit–(Incl.  
eight each of Part GW-2475-1  
and GW-2475-2 tines and sixteen  
each of Ref. No.’s 8 and 10 .....  
GW-2475-1 Bolo Tine, Custom Tilling–single,  
left hand ..................................  
7
8
“AR” ........................................  
Bolt–hex hd., 3/8-16 x 1" ............ 16  
8
1
8
8
710-3005  
---  
---  
GW-2475-2 Bolo Tine, Custom Tilling–single,  
right hand................................  
57  
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Parts List  
MODELS E683G & E683F  
ELECTRIC START SYSTEM  
58  
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Parts List  
MODELS E683G & E683F  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
REF  
No.  
PART  
No.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
DESCRIPTION  
QTY.  
1
GW-96515 Cable–battery, positive and negative  
terminals .................................  
GW-97020 Boot–terminal insulating.............  
14  
GW-96514 Solenoid–starter, includes nuts and  
washers for cables and wires ..  
2
3
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
2
3
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
736-0119  
1186211  
736-0147  
GW-9853  
Lockwasher–5/16" ......................  
Nut–hex, 5/16"-24.......................  
Lockwasher–external tooth, #10.  
Nut–hex, #10-32,........................  
GW-9552  
Screw–self-threading,  
1/4-20 x 1/2"............................  
Bolt–hex hd., 1/4-20 x 5/8" .........  
Wire–recharge (red) ...................  
Battery Hold-down Clamp–with  
attached Key Switch Plate .......  
3
2
1
4
5
6
1186309  
1901894  
GW-2614  
GW-96510 Cable–solenoid to starter motor .  
GW-2557  
1186349  
Battery Bracket ...........................  
Bolt–flanged hex hd.,  
3/8-16 x 1-1/2" ........................  
Tie–plastic, wire retaining ...........  
Tie–plastic...................................  
1
1
7
8
777S30648 Decal–ignition switch instruc......  
725-0267B Key Switch–includes two  
ignition keys (Ref. No. 9), one  
2
1
2
23  
27  
28  
GW-9265  
725-0157  
lockwasher, and one mounting  
nut (lock-washer and nut not  
725-04346 Wire Harness & Connecting  
Terminal Assembly..................  
1
1
3
available separately)................  
1
1
2
2
2
1
29  
30  
32  
712-3010  
1186389  
1901202  
Nut–flange lock, 5/16"-18 ...........  
Locknut–hex, 1/4"-20..................  
Cable–ground, solenoid to engine  
block .......................................  
Bolt–flange lock, 5/16-18 x 1".....  
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
725-0201  
1186073  
1100241  
712-3006  
Key–ignition, one pair.................  
Bolt–carriage, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4".....  
Lockwasher–spring lock, 1/4".....  
Nut–hex, 1/4"-20.........................  
1
1
33  
710-3180  
725-1706A Battery–12 volt, 270 CCA ...............  
59  
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TROY-BILT TILLER LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY  
WHAT PRODUCT  
IS COVERED  
All Troy-Bilt branded rear tine walk-behind tillers with gear drive transmissions.  
This warranty begins on the date of purchase and is warranted by Troy-Bilt LLC for the life  
of the tiller, to the original purchaser only.  
WHAT IS COVERED  
BY THIS WARRANTY  
Troy-Bilt LLC will, at its option, repair or replace any part found to be defective in material  
or workmanship without charge for parts and labor.  
This limited lifetime warranty also applies to non-powered attachments and accessories. Powered  
attachments and accessories are warranted separately by their manufacturers. Refer to the applicable  
manufacturer’s warranty on these items for terms and conditions.  
WHAT IS NOT  
COVERED BY THIS  
WARRANTY  
This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration,  
misuse, abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage  
because of peril or other natural disaster.  
The following items are not covered after the first year of this residential use limited warranty: belts,  
batteries, bushings, seals, tines, tires, wheels, paint, appearance items, and similar items that are  
normally replaced through periodic maintenance.  
Charges for pick-up, delivery, and service calls are not covered by this warranty.  
Service completed by someone other than an authorized service dealer is not covered by this warranty.  
Parts that are not genuine Troy-Bilt LLC service parts are not covered by this warranty.  
The engine is warranted separately by the engine manufacturer. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s  
warranty for terms and conditions.  
LIMITED  
COMMERCIAL  
USE WARRANTY  
If used for commercial, institutional, industrial, rental, or demonstrator purposes, the  
warranty on the tiller is limited in duration to 90 days from the date of purchase.  
This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration, misuse, abuse,  
neglect, improper maintenance, vandalism, theft, fire, water, or damage because of peril or other natural  
disaster.  
HOW TO OBTAIN  
SERVICE  
Warranty service is available, with proof of purchase, through your local authorized  
service dealer. To locate a dealer in your area, consult your Yellow Pages, or contact Troy-Bilt LLC at  
P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, 1-866-840-6483, or log on to our Web site at www.  
troybilt.com.  
The provisions set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. Troy-Bilt LLC shall  
not be liable for any incidental or consequential damage or expense of any kind, including but not limited to cost of  
equipment rental, loss of profits, or costs of hiring services to perform tasks normally performed by the equipment.  
Any implied warranties, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, shall be limited in  
duration to the period of ownership by the original purchaser (and a maximum of 90 days from the date of sale if the tiller is  
purchased for commercial or other non-residential use).  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an  
implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.  
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.  
For customer assistance, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact us at:  
TROY-BILT LLC, P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, 1-866-840-6483  
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