MTD 21A 241E052 User Manual FRONT TINE TILLER Manuals And Guides 1109054L

User Manual: MTD 21A-241E052 21A-241E052 MTD FRONT TINE TILLER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD FRONT TINE TILLER #21A241E052. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:MTD Parts:MTD FRONT TINE TILLER Manual

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Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

A

O

A

AL

Model241shown

Front Tine Tiller -- Model Series 240
IMPORTANT
READ SAFETY

RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS

CAREFULLY

BEFORE

OPERATION

Warning: This unit isequippedwith an internalcombustionengineand shouldnot be usedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brushcoveredor grass-coveredland unlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresterisused,it shouldbe maintainedineffectiveworkingorder by the operator.In theState of Californiathe aboveisrequiredbylaw
(Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstatesmay havesimilarlaws.Federallaws applyon federallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO. Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-0019.

PRINTEDIN U.S.A.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019

FORMNO.769-02153A
3/2/2006

This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new tiller, it will help you assemble,
prepare, and maintain the unit for best performance.
Please read and understand what it says.

Table of Contents
Safety Labels ......................................................
Safety ...................................................................
Assembly .............................................................
Operation .............................................................
Adjustments ......................................................

Maintenance

3
4
6
8
12

......................................................

Troubleshooting ................................................
Off-Season Storage ..........................................
Parts List ...........................................................
Warranty ............................................

13
14
15
16

Back Cover

This OperatorsManualcoversa rangeof productspecificationsfor variousmodels.Characteristicsandfeaturesdiscussedand/orillustratedinthis manualmaynot be
applicableto all models.MTDLLC reservesthe rightto changeproductspecifications,designsand equipmentwithoutnoticeand withoutincurringobligation.

Finding and Recording Model Number
r

BEFOREASSEMBLINGYOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locatethe model plateon the equipmentand
copy the informationto the sample model plate provided to the right. Youcan locatethe model plate by
lookingat the rearof the tine shield. This information
is importantfor use when visiting the manufacturer's
web site, obtainingassistancefrom the Customer
Support Department,or when contacting an authorizedservice dealer.

Model Number

Serial Number

MTD LLC

www.mtdproducts.corn

P.O= BOX
361131
CLEVELAND, ON 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310

Customer Support
Please do IVOTreturn
purchased,

without

the unit to the retailer from which it was
first contacting

Customer

Support.

if you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
• Visit www.mtdproducts.com.
• Call a Customer Support Representative at 1-800-800-7310.
• The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating,specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed separatelywith
your unit, for more information.

2

Safety Labels Found On Your Tiller
i_ii_
_i i _iI i_
_ii_
TO AVOID SERIOUS iNJURY
1. READTHE OPERATOR'S
MANUAL.
2. KNOWLOCATIONAND FUNCTIONSOF ALL
CONTROLS.
3. KEEPALLSAFETYDEVICESANDSHIELDS
iN PLACEANDWORKING.
4. NEVERALLOWCHILDRENOR
UNINSTRUCTEDADULTSTO OPERATE
TILLER.

Labels

5. SHUT OFF ENGINE BEFORE UNCLOGGING
TINES OR MAKING REPAIRS.
6. KEEP BYSTANDERSAWAYFROMMACHINE.
7,KEEP AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.
8.USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN
REVERSING OR PULLING THE MACHINE
TOWARDS YOU.

WARNING
S32147

DO NOT remove safety
(or any) labels from
tiller for any reason.

3

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of Californiato cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.

Operat on

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
Failureto observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Training
1. Read,understand,andfollow all instructionson the machine
and in the manual(s)beforeattemptingto assembleand
operate.Keepthis manualina safe place forfuture and
regularreferenceand for orderingreplacementparts.

WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions
may result in personal
injury. When you see
i this symbol, HEED ITS
WARNING!

13.

Replacegasolinecap andtighten securely.

14.

Ifgasoline is spilled, wipeit off the engineand
equipment.Movemachineto another area.Wait 5
minutes beforestartingthe engine.
Neverstorethe machineor fuel containerinside near an
open flame,spark or pilotlight (e.g. furnace,wateror
space heater,clothesdryer,etc.).

2. Befamiliar withall controlsand their properoperation.Know 15.
howto stop the machine.
3. Neverallowchildren under14 yearsold to operatethis
machine.Children14 yearsold and overshouldread and
16. Allow machineto cool 5 minutesbeforestoring.
understandthe operationinstructionsand safetyrules in
Operation
this manualandshould be trainedand supervisedby a
1. Do not put handsor feetnear rotatingparts.Contactwith
parent.
the rotatingparts can amputatehands andfeet.
4. Neverallowadultsto operatethis machinewithoutproper
2. Do not operate machinewhileunderthe influenceof alcohol
instruction.
or drugs.
5. Keepbystanders,helpers,pets andchildren at least 75 feet
3. Neveroperatethis machinewithoutgood visibility or light.
from the machinewhile it is in operation.Stop machineif
Alwaysbe sureof yourfooting and keepafirm hold on the
anyoneentersthe area.
handles.

Preparation

4. Keep bystanders,helpers,pets,and childrenat least 75 feet
from the machinewhile it is inoperation.Stopthe machineif
anyoneentersthe area.

1. Thoroughlyinspectthe areawhere the equipmentis to be
used.Removeall stones,sticks,wire, and otherforeign
objects whichcould be trippedover andcausepersonal
injury.

5. Be careful when tillingin hard ground. Thetines maycatch
in the groundand propelthe tiller forward. Ifthis occurs, let
2 Wear sturdy, rough-soledwork shoesand closefitting
go of the handlebars anddo not restrainthe machine.
slacksand shirt. Loosefitting clothesor jewelrycan be
6. Exerciseextremecaution whenoperatingon or crossing
caught in movableparts. Neveroperatethis machinein bare
gravelsurfaces.Stay alert for hiddenhazardsor traffic.
feet or sandals.
7. Neveroperatethe machineat hightransport speedson hard
3. Disengageclutchleversand shift (if provided)into neutral
or slipperysurfaces.
("N") beforestartingthe engine.
8. Exercisecautionto avoidslipping orfalling.
4. Neverleave this machineunattendedwiththe engine
9. Lookdown and behindand use care when in reverseor
running.
pulling machinetowardsyou.
5. Neverattemptto makeany adjustmentswhile engineis
10.Start the engineaccordingto the instructionsfound in this
running,exceptwherespecificallyrecommendedinthe
manualandkeepfeet well awayfrom the tines at all times.
operator'smanual.
11.After strikinga foreignobject, stop the engine,disconnect
6. Toavoid personalinjury or propertydamageuse extreme
the sparkplug wire and groundagainstthe engine
care in handlinggasoline. Gasolineis extremelyflammable
Thoroughlyinspectthe machinefor any damage. Repairthe
and the vapors are explosive.Serious personalinjury can
damagebeforestarting andoperating.
occur when gasolineis spilled on yourself or your clothes
12.Disengageall clutch levers(if fitted) and stop engine before
which can ignite.Washyourskin andchangeclothes
you leave the operatingposition(behindthe handles).Wait
immediately.
until the tines come to a completestop before unclogging
7. Useonly an approvedgasolinecontainer.
the tines, makingany adjustments,or inspections.
8. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars,pipes and othersourcesof
13.Neverrun an engine indoorsor ina poorly ventilatedarea.
ignition.
Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an odorlessand
9. Neverfuel machineindoors.
deadlygas.
10. Neverremovegas cap or addfuel whilethe engine is hot or
14.Mufflerand engine becomehot andcan causea burn.Do
running.
not touch.
11.Allow engine to cool at leasttwo minutesbefore refueling
15.Use cautionwhentilling near fences,buildingsand
12. Neveroverfill fuel tank. Filltank to no morethan Y2inch
undergroundutilities. Rotatingtines can cause property
belowbottomof filler neck to providespacefor fuel
damageor personalinjury.
expansion.

4

16.Do not overloadmachinecapacityby attemptingto till soil to
deep at too fast of a rate.

Your Responsibility
1. Restrictthe use of this power machineto personswho read,
understand,andfollowthe warningsand instructionsinthis
manualand on the machine.

17. Ifthe machineshould start makingan unusualnoise or
vibration,stop the engine,disconnectthe spark plug wire
and groundit againstthe engine.Inspectthoroughlyfor
damage. Repairany damage beforestartingandoperating.
18.Keep all shields, guards,andsafetydevices in place and
operatingproperly.

2. The safetylabels on the tiller are shown inthe "Safety
Labels"section.Toensuresafe operationof the tiller,follow
the instructionson all labelsclosely.

19.Neverpick up or carry machinewhilethe engine is running.
20. Use onlyattachmentsand accessoriesapprovedbythe
manufacturer.Failureto do so can resultin personalinjury.
21. Ifsituationsoccur whichare not coveredinthis manual,use
care andgood judgment.Contactyour dealeror telephone
1-800-800-7310for assistanceandthe name of your
nearestservicingdealer.

Maintenance

ces

& Storage

1. Nevertamperwith safetydevices.Checktheir proper
operationregularly.
2. Check boltsand screwsfor proper tightnessat frequent
intervalsto keepthe machineinsafe workingcondition.
Also, visuallyinspectmachinefor any damage.
3. Beforecleaning, repairing,or inspecting,stop the engine
and makecertainthe tines and all movingparts have
stopped.Disconnectthe spark plug wire andground it
againstthe engineto preventunintendedstarting.
4. Do not changethe enginegovernorsettings or over-speed
the engine.The governorcontrolsthe maximumsafe
operatingspeedof the engine.

WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could

5. Maintainor replacesafetyand instructionlabels, as
necessary.
6. Followthis manualfor safe loading, unloading,transporting,
and storageof this machine.
7. Neverstore the machineor fuel container insidewhere

endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this man-

there is an open flame,spark or pilot light such as a water
heater,furnace,clothesdryer,etc.
8. Alwaysreferto the operator'smanualfor properinstructions
on off-seasonstorage.
9. Ifthe fuel tank hasto be drained,do this outdoors.
10.Observeproperdisposallaws and regulationsfor gas, oil,
etc. to protectthe environment.

ual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions
may result in personal
njury. When you see
this symbol, HEED ITS
WARNING!

5

Assembly
4. Insert left end of tine clutch control into the
hole on the left side of the upper handle,
Figure 3-3.

1. Removethe star handle knobs and carriage
boltsfrom the lower handle, Figure 3-1.

f

Assembly

Standbehindthe tiller
as if you weregoingto
operate it. Yourright hand
correspondsto the right
side of the tiller; your left
hand correspondsto the
left side of the tiller.

This operator'smanual
may covervariousmodels
of tillers. The units illustratedmay varyslightly
from your unit.

\

J

J

Figure3-1: Removehardwarefrom lowerhandle.
Figure3-3: Installleft side ofthe tine clutchcontrol.

2. Position the upper handle onto the lower
handle, Step A Figure 3-2. Align the holes
on lower handle with the holes on the upper
handle (choose the upper or lower holes
depending on the desired handle height).

5. Insert the Z-fitting on the clutch cable into
the hole on the tine clutch control. Hook the
"Z" end into the opening from the inside to
the outside as shown in Figure3-4.

3. Insertcarriage bolts through the holes and secure with star knobs, Step B Figure 3-2. Make
certain carriage bolts are seated securely into
one of the two positions provided.
f

I I[VIPORTANT:
This unitis
shippedwithoutgasoline
i or oil in the engine.Fill
up gasolinean¢loUas
i nstr.ucted n the accompanyingenginemanual
BEFOREoperatingyour
machine.

.......
Figure3-4: Hookcable into tine clutchcontrol.

Figure3-2:Attachandsecureupperhandle.

6

\

J

6. Squeeze
thetineclutchcontrolinward.
Insertrightendintotheholeontherightside
oftheupperhandle,Figure3-5.
f

Stand behind the tiller
as if you were goingto
operate it. Yourright hand
correspondsto the right
side of the tiller; your left
handcorrespondsto the
left side of the tiller.

Figure3-5: Installrightend of tine clutchcontrol.

Thisoperator's manual
may covervariousmodels
oftillers. The units illustratedmay vary slightly
from your unit.

7

Know Your Tiller

Clutch Cable

Rear Wheel
with Depth
Stake

WARNING
The tit _:
is a safety device'Never
attempt to bypass its

operation,
Use extremecarewhen
handling gaso ne
Gasoline is extremely

Figure4-1:The majorparts of the tiller (model241 shown).

f ammablo
and
theVapors __k
are explosive,Never fuel
the machine indoorsor

follow
all instructionsand warnings
ARNING:Read,understand,
and
postedon the machine and in this
manual before operating.

while the engineis hot
or running. Ext nguish
cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and othersources of
ignition:

Tine Clutch

I

Keephandsand feet away
from the tines, Refer to

war" ng ontheunit:
I

Theclutchcontrol leveris locatedon the upperhandle.
Squeezingthe leveragainstthe handleengagesthefine
drive.Releasethe leverto stopthe tines from turning.

This operator!smanual
may cover variousmodels
of tUlers, The units il_
lustrated may Varyslightly
from your unit.

Thethrottlecontrolsthe engine'sspeedand stopsthe
engine.Tecumsehenginescomewith a fixed speed
throttleand run at a full constantspeed.Briggs& Stratton
enginescome with a variablespeedthrottle.

Rear Wheel with Depth Stake

Unitswith VariableSpeedThrottle:

Thedepthstakeand wheelare locatedat the rearof
the tiller.Bothmay be adjusted.Referto the "Wheel
Position"and "DepthStake"sectionsfor instructions.

Handle

I _

Throttle Control

Control

• With the throttlecontrol movedcompletelyto the left,
the carburetorisin STARTor FASTposition.Use
maximumenginespeedfor deep tilling.

Knobs

Thehandle heightmaybe adjusted.Loosenthe knobs
and removethe carriageboltsto changethe position.
Reinstalland tightenthe hardwarewhencomplete.

Movethe throttlecontrolleverto the rightto reduce
enginespeed.Throttlecontrolshouldbe at IDLEfor
transportingthe tiller.

Engine

Movethe throttleall the way to the rightto stop the
engine.

Controls

NOTE:See the separate engine manual for additional engineinformationand functions.

Primer

Recoil Starter

Theprimer,locatedon the engine,is usedto pumpgas
intothe carburetorand aid in startingthe engine.Use it
to starta cold engine,but do notuse it to restarta warm
engineafter a short shutdown.

The recoilstarteris locatedon the engineand is usedto
manuallystart the engine.

8

manyotheruseful laborsavingtasks in the garden.After
engineis runningand appropriatespeedset on throttle
(if equipped),squeezefine clutchcontrol(see Figure4-1)
againstupperhandleto engagethe fine drive.Release
the leverto stopthe tines from turning.

_

ARNING: Read,understand, and follow
all instructionsand warningspostedon the
machineand in this manual beforeoperating.

Before Starting

Wheel Position

Gas And Oil Fill-Up

Thetiller isshippedwith the wheeladjustedsuchthat the
unit sitslevel. Beforetilling, thewheelmust be raised.To
do this, removethe clevisand cotterpins, raisethe wheel
to the desiredposition,then reattachpinsto secure,
Figure4-2. Fortransportingthe tiller, reversethe stepsto
lowerthewheel.

Servicethe enginewith gasolineand oil as instructed
in
theengine manualpackedwith yourtiller. Readinstructionscarefully.
,_

WARNING: Useextremecarewhen handling
gasoline. Gasolineis extremelyflammable
and the vaporsare explosive.Neverfuel machine
indoorsor while the engineis hot or running.

Starting

Your Tiller

the Engine

_L

ARNING: Be sure no one is standingin
front of the tiller while the engineis running
or being started.
Referto the enginemanual shippedwith your unit for
engine-specificinstructions.

WARNING
Be sure noone other than

1. Attachsparkplug wireto sparkplug. Makesurethe
metalcap on the end of the spark plug is fastened
securelyoverthe metaltip on the sparkplug.

the operator is standing
near the tiller while start,
ing engine or operating
the unit. Never run engine
indoors or in enclosed,
poorlyventilated areas,

2. Makesurethat the fine clutchcontrolisdisengaged.
3. Forunits with Briggs& Strattonengine,placethe
throttlecontrolin the FASTposition.
Forunits with Tecumsehengine,moveleveron engine Figure4-2:WheelAdjustment
to RUNposition.

Depth Stake

4. Forfirst time start-up,firmly pressengineprimerfive
(5) times. Forall futurestarts, pressthree(3) times.
Waitabouttwo secondsbetweeneach press.

Thedepth stakeacts as a brakefor the tillerand controls
the depthand speedat whichthe machinewill operate,
5. Placeleft hand on gas tank.Grasprecoilstarterand
Figure4-3. Removethe clevisand cotterpins, raiseor
pull rope out slowlyuntil enginereachesthe beginning
lowerthedepthstake,then reattachpinsto secure.
of its compressioncycle(rope willpull slightlyharder
f
at this point).
6. Pull ropewith a rapid,continuous,full armstroke.
Keepa firm grip on handle.Let rope rewindslowly.Do
not let recoilstartersnapbackagainstengine.Repeat
untilengine starts.

Stopping

Eng no
exhaust
contains
carbonmonoxide, an
odorlessand deadlygas,
Keep hands feet hair

andloose
€ oth away
ng
from any moving partson
engine and tiller.

See yourengine manual
packagedwith your unit
for detailed instructions
pertainingto startingthe
engine.

the Engine

1. Movethe controlleveron the engineto the STOPor
OFF position.
2. Disconnectspark plugwire from sparkplug and
groundagainsttheengine.

Using Your Tiller
Yourtiller(also knownas a cultivator)is a precisionbuilt
machinedesignedfor seedbed preparation,cultivating,
furrowing,and mulching.It isengineeredto minimize
the hardestwork in the vegetableor flowergarden,to
till the soilfor plantingand cultivating,and to perform

Figure4-3:The DepthStake

_ii_i__i/_I_I:_I_I_I_I_I_I_I_I_I_I_I_I
!!il

9

Fortilling, thedepth stakemustbe loweredand the
wheelmustbe raised,Figure4-4.

i

By increasingthedepthof thedepth stake,theforward
speedof the machineis reducedand the workingdepth
is increased.Whenthe depthstakeis raised,the working
depthof the machineis reducedand the forwardspeed
is increased.The workingdepthof the machinemay
be predeterminedby settingthedepthstakeso that the
wheelsare aboutfourinches fromthe groundwhenthe
tines and depthstakeare restingon the ground.This
settingwill permita workingdepthof about fourinches.
Whenpresettingthe workingdepth,the handlesshould
be adjustedso the handgrips area little abovewaist.
Thetiller will be lowerwhenthe tinesand depthstake
penetratethe ground.

¸

Figure4-4:Lowerthe depth stakeand raisethe wheelwhen
tilling.

WARNING
i

i i i ii iiiiiill

i

i_

Besure
nooneother
thantheoperator
standing near the tiller
while starting engine
or operatingthe unit,
Never run

engine

indoors or in enclosed
poorly ventilated
areas:

Engine exhaust

contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless

anddeadly
gas:
Keep

Controlling

Speed and Tilling

Whentilling,leaveapproximatelyeight inchesof
untilledsoilbetweenthefirst and secondtilling paths,
thenmakethe third pathbetweenthe first and second,
Figure4-5. Insome soils,the desireddepthis obtained
the firsttime overthe garden.Inother soils,thedesired
depthis obtainedby going overthegarden two or three
times. Passesshouldbe madeacrossthe lengthand
widthof thegardenalternately.Rockswhichare turned
up shouldbe removedfrom the gardenarea.

hands; feet; hair and
, loose clothing away
from any moving parts
on engine and

Depth

Thetype of soiland workingconditionswill determinethe
actualsettingof the depthstakeand the handlepressure
required.

Cultivating
Forcultivating,a two to threeinchdepth isdesirable.
Thethrottle(if equipped)shouldbe set to controlforward
movementto a slowwalkingspeed.With the outertines
installed,the workingwidth of the machineis22 or 24
inches.
Forcultivation,this may be reducedto 13 inchesby
removingthe outertines,referto the AdjustmentSection.
Whenlayingout plant rows,be sureto allowenough
widthto permitcultivationbetweenthe rows.Ingrowing
cornor similarcrops,check-rowplantingwill permitcross
cultivationand practicallyeliminatehandhoeing,Figure
4-6.

I

See your engl e
manual packaged with
your unit for detailed
instructions pertainin
to engine controls.

J

Figure4-5:Recommended
tillerpaths.

Handle

Pressure

Furthercontrolof tillingdepthand travel speedcan be
obtainedby variationof pressureon the handles.
A downwardpressureon the handleswill reducethe
workingdepthand increasethe forwardspeed.An
upwardpressureon the handleswill increasethe
workingdepthand reducethe forwardspeed.

Figure4-6:Allow enougharea betweenrows.

Thetiller has manyusesotherthan tillingand cultivating
a garden.One of these is the preparationof lawnarea
for seeding.The tillerwill preparea deep seed bed which

10

will be free of hard untilledspots,allowinga betterstand of grassto grow.The tiller is very usefulfor looseninghard
soil for excavationwith a shovel;Notedious handworkwill be necessary.Yourtiller maybe usedfor mixingcompost
in the pile or for mixingit with the soil in yourgarden.This shouldbe doneafter the soil has beenbrokento thefull
workingdepth.The compostshouldbe workedin to a depthof six to seveninches.This may be done by workingthe
lengthof the gardenand then by makingseparatepassesacrossits width.Theadditionof decayedorganicmatterwill
substantiallyincreasethefertility of yourgarden.For properdecayingaction,fertilizershouldbe appliedand workedin
with the mulch materials.Breakingup leavesand strawand mixingit with severalinchesof soilallowsproper aeration
of the plant rootsystemand retardsthe growthof weeds.

Transporting

and Storing

the Tiller

You r Tiller

Totransportthetiller, lowerthewheeland movethedepth staketo the highestposition,Figure4-7.
To storethe tiller,lowerthe wheeland orientthe depthstakeso bothare touchingthe ground,Figure4-8.
f

"_,

f

Besurenooneother

Figure4-7:Fortransport,lowerwheelandraisedepthstake.

Figure4-8:Forstorage,lowerwheelanddepthstake.

than the operator is
standing near the tiller
while starting engine
or operating the unit;
Never
engine
indoorsor in enclosed,
poorly ventilated
areas. Engineexhaust
contains carbon

monoxide; an odorless
hands; feet, hair and
loose clothing away

from
any
moving
parts
on engine and tiller.

Seeyour engine

manua!
packaged
w_th
your unit for detailed

instructions Pertaining
to engine controls,

11

Making Adjustments
f

Warning: Disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground it against
the engine before performing
any adjustments.
Engine Adjustment
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
adjustment instructions.

manualmaycover
Variousmodelsof tillers.

The
units
, ust oted
maY
varyslightlyfrom your

,€

Tine Width Adjustment
The tilling width of the unit is22 inches. Tilling
width can increase to 24 inches by removing
the clevis and cotter pins, sliding each outer
tine out one inch, and securing in this position
with the pins. Forcultivation, reduce the tine
width to 13inches by removingthe outer tines
completely, Figure 5-1.

24-inch

2-inch

•

Standbehindthe tiller as
ifyouweregoing to operi
ate it. Yourrighthand
correspondsto the right
sideof the tiller; yourleft
hand correspondsto the

leftsideof thetil let.

J

Figure5-1:Tinewidthadjustment.

12

Replacing the Belt

nectspark plug, and groundagainst
_LIl_lLik, l=WARNING:
Alwaysstop engine,disconYourtillerhas beenengineeredwith a belt madeof
engine beforecleaning,lubricating
or
specialmaterialfor longerlifeand betterperformance.
performingany maintenance on your
It shouldnotbe replacedwith an off-the-shelfbelt. See
machine.
the retailerfrom whichyou purchasedyourtiller,an
authorizedMTDServiceDealer,or call 1-800-800-7310
for information
regardingpriceand availability.

Engine

Referto the separateenginemanualfor enginemaintenanceinstructions.
•

Maintainengineoil as instructed
in theseparate
engine manualpackedwith yourunit. Readand follow
instructions
carefully.

1. Removethe frame and engineby removingthe six
screwsand lock nuts holdingtheengine and frameto
the shield,Figure6-1.

• Serviceair cleanerevery ten hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleanevery hourunder extremelydusty
conditions.Poorengineperformanceand flooding
usually indicatesthat the air cleanershouldbe
serviced.Toservicethe air cleaner,referto the
separateenginemanualpackedwith yourunit.
(_

MPORTANT:Never runyour enginewithout
air cleanercompletely assembled.

• The spark plugshouldbe cleanedand thegap reset
every 25 hoursof engineoperation.Sparkplug
replacementis recommendedat the startof eachtiller
season;checkenginemanualfor correctplug type
and gap specification.
• Cleanthe engineregularlywith a cloth or brush.
Keepthecoolingsystem(blowerhousingarea)clean
to permitproperair circulationwhich isessentialto
engine performanceand life. Be certainto removeall
dirt and combustibledebrisfrom mufflerarea.

Figure6-1:Remove
engineandframeto gainaccessto thebelt.
(Model241shown)
2. Loosenthe lock nut shownin StepA Figure6-2.

Lubrication

3. Unloopthe belt from thepulleys,StepB Figure6-2.

Transmission

5. Reattachframe and engineusingthe hardware
removedearlier.

The transmissionis pre-lubricatedand sealedat the factory. It requiresno checking.Seean authorizedservice
dealer forany serviceissues.

4. Reassemblethe newbelt and tightenthe lock nut.

IMPORTANT:Never use a
pressurewasherto clean
yourtiller. Water can
penetratetight areas of
the tiller causingserious
damageto the unit.

Tine Shafts
Removetine assembliesand lubricatethe tine shaftsat
least oncea season.

Wheel Shaft
Removewheelassemblyand lubricatethe axleshaft at
least oncea season.

IMPORTANT:Never run

Cleaning Tine Area

yourengine withoutthe
air cleanercompletely
assembled.

Cleanthe undersideof the fineshieldafter each use.
The dirt washesoff thetines easierif rinsedoff immediatelyinsteadof after itdries. Alwaystoweldry the
tiller afterwardsand applya lightcoat of oil or siliconeto
preventrustingor water damage.
(_

IMPORTANT:Never
use acanpenetratetight
"pressure washer"
to
cleanyour tiller. Water
areas of the tiller causingseriousdamage.

J
Figure6-2:Loosen
thenutto remove
thebelt.

13

Problem

Cause

Engine fa! s tO start

Remedy

wi!e d

! connect wire to spa[k

I 2 Fue tankemptyorstaefue
3. Throttle control!evernot in correct
4,

2 F tankwthcean freshgaso ne
3, Movethrottle leverto start position.

sta_ingPosition(i! equipped)position
Chokenot n ON post on.

I
5: clean fuel line.

&Blocked fue!
Fau!tysPa[k
7, Engnefood ng.

6 C!ean:adjust gaR Or[epiace:

.

1. Sparkplugwire loose.

Engineruns erratic

2. Unit runningon CHOKE.

1. Connectand tightenspark
plug wire.

3. Blockedfuel line or stalefuel.

2. Movechoke leverto OFE

4. Ventplugged.

3. Cleanfuel line;fill tank with clean,
fresh gasoline.

5. Wateror dirt in fuel system.

4. Clearvent.

6. Dirtyair cleaner.

For repairs beyond
the minor adjust.
merits listed here,
contact an authorized
service dealer.

wait a few rninutes to restartlbut do
not pr me (f equ pped)

5. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith
fresh fuel.

7. Carburetorout of adjustment.

6. Cleanfollowingengine manual.
7. Referto enginemanual.
I

Engine overheats

!;

Engineoi! !eve!low:
2 Di!tYa[fi!ter:

4.

Tines do no engage

Ai[f!ow iest[ cte&
Carburetornot adjustedproperly.
1. Foreignobject lodgedin tines.

1; E!! crankcasew th ProPeroi!:
2 c!e an ai[C!eaiei:
Removeblowerhousingand c!eanr
4. Referto enginemanual.

2. Tineclevispin(s) missing.

1. Stop tillercompletely,checkand
discardforeignobject.

3. Beltwornand/or stretched.

2. Replacefineclevis pin(s).

4. Pulleyand idler not in correctadjustment.

3. Replacebelt.

14

4. Takeunit to authorizedservice

Off-Season

Storage
Referto the enginemanualfor correctenginestorage
instructions.

if the tillerwill not be usedfor a period longerthan30
days,the followingstepsshouldbe taken to preparethe
tiller for storage.

Wipetines with oiled ragto preventrust.
Storetiller in a clean, dry area.Do not storenext to
corrosivematerials,such as fertilizer.

Cleanthe exteriorof engineand the entiretiller
thoroughly.Lubricatethetiller as describedin the
lubricationinstructions.

When storingany type of powerequipmentin an
unventilatedor metalstorageshed,care shouldbe
taken to rustproofthe equipment.Usinga light oil
or silicone,coat the equipmentand especiallyany
springs,bearings,and cables.

We do not recommendthe useof pressurewashersto
cleanyour unit.They may causedamageto spindles,
pulleys,bearings,or the engine.The use of pressure
washerswill resultin shortenedlifeand reduce
serviceability.

NOTE: When storing
anytype of power
equipment in an unventilated or metal storage
shed. care should be
taken to rustproofthe
equipment. Using a
I ght oil or silicone, coat
the equipment and
especially any springs,
bearings, and cables.

15

16

1

749-04282

UpperHandle

2

720-04072

StarHandle Knob

3

749-04281

LowerHandle

4

710-04398

FlangeScrew5/16-18x 7.5

5

754-04123

Belt

6

756-04163

idler Pulley

7

748-04125

ShoulderSpacer

8

686-04080

IdlerBracket

9

712-04065

FlangeLock Nut:3/8-16

Parts List

10 710-0654A TT Screw3/8-16x 1.00
11 786-04303

Frame

12 710-0514

HH CapScrew3/8-16x 1.00

13 732-0418

ExtensionSpring

14 738-04139

Stud 33 x 1.5x 3/8-16

15 756-04217

FlywheelPulley

16 710-0591

HH CapScrew3/8-24x 1.00

or visit

17 710-0520

HH CapScrew3/8-16x 1.50

www.mtdproducts.com

18 786-04256

Tine Shield61 cm

19 711-0415

ClevisPin

20 642-0005

OuterTine AssemblyLH

21 642-0003

InnerTine AssemblyLH

22 714-0149B

internalCotterPin

23 710-0809

TT Screw 1/4-20x 1.25

24 GW-9727

PipePlug 3/8 NPT

25 642-0002

InnerTine AssemblyRH

26 642-0004

OuterTine AssemblyRH

27 618-04276A Case Assembly
28 721-04157

Gasket

29 726-0299

PushCap

30 734-0973

Wheel5 x 1.38

31 749-04265

DepthStakeTube

32 711-04520

Axle Shaft

33 710-1007

TT Screw3/8-16x 1.50

34 786-04296

WheelBracket

35 749-04266

RearWheelTube

36 714-3020

internalCotterPin

37 712-04063

FlangeLock Nut:5/16-18

38 710-0487

CarriageBolt

39 731-05385

ClutchCableFitting

40 746-04247

ClutchCable

41 710-0599

TT Screw 1/4-20x.50

42 786-04307

Cable MountBracket

43 747-04508

Clutch Bail

44 736-0300

FiatWasher.406x .875x .059

17

_FACTORY

PARTS

To order
replacement parts, call
1-800-800-7310

Fora proper working
machine, use Factory Approved Parts.
V-BELTSare specially
designed to engage and
disengage safely. A
substitute (nomOEM)
V-Belt can be dangerous by not disengaging
completely.
Tiller features/components vary by model.
Some parts listed may
not be available on your
unit.

Notes

_

ii_

_ i_ill

i_ii

Use this page to take notes.

i_iii_

_ I_

Use this page to take notes.

19

Notes

MANUFACTURER'S

LiMiTED WARRANTY

The limitedwarrantyset forth belowisgivenby MTDLLCwith respect
to newmerchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its
possessionsand territories.
"MTD"warrantsthis productagainstdefectsin materialand workmanshipfor a periodof two (2) years commencingon the date of original
purchaseand will, at its option,repairor replace,freeof charge,any
part foundto be defectiveinmaterialsor workmanship.This limitedwarranty shallonlyapply if this product hasbeen operatedand maintained
inaccordancewith the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,
and has notbeen subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,
accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire, water,
or damagebecauseof otherperil or naturaldisaster.Damageresulting
fromthe installationor useof any part, accessoryor attachmentnot
approvedby MTDfor use with the product(s)coveredbythis manual
willvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearparts are warrantedto be free fromdefects in materialand
workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30) days fromthe dateof purchase.
Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuch as: batteries,belts,blades,blade adapters,grass bags, riderdeck wheels,seats,
snowthrowerskid shoes,shaveplates,auger spiralrubberand tires.
NOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,
or contact MTD LLC at RO. Box 361131,Cleveland, Ohio 441360019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our
Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
This limitedwarrantydoesnot providecoverageinthe followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmaycarry a
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsand conditions.
b. Log splitterpumps,valves,and cylindershavea separateone year
warranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuch as lubricants,filters, blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck
adjustments,and normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish due to
useor exposure.

FOR

e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsand territories,except
those soldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof export distribution.
f. Replacementparts that are notgenuine MTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarrantyof merchantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the
applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the
parts as identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwritten or
oral, except as mentioned above, givenby any personor entity,
includinga dealeror retailer, with respect to any product,shall
bind MTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy
is repairor replacementof the productas set forth above.
The provisionsas set forth in this warrantyprovidethe sole and
exclusiveremedy arising from the sale. MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentialloss or damage including,without
limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn
careservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea
warranted product.
Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitations
on howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitations
maynot applyto you.
In no event shallrecoveryof any kindbe greaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safety features of
the product shallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liability
for loss,damage,or injuryto you and yourpropertyand/orto others and
theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.
This limitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginal
purchaseror to the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY: This limited
warrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmay alsohaveother
rightswhich vary from stateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginal Proofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.

d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

OHIO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683



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