Troy Bilt Bronco 12180 Users Manual

121805hp 9a001ca1-f60f-4d86-b944-23a6c2ae9502 Troy-Bilt Tiller 12180 User Guide |

2015-01-21

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Model

12180

Owner’s Manual

BRONCOTM 5 HP

Model Tiller

•Safety

•Assembly

•Controls

•Operation

•Maintenance

BRONCO

GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED

Table of Contents

SECTION 1: SAFETY ........................................... 3

Safety Decals .................................................................... 5

SECTION 2: ASSEMBLY ....................................... 6

Attach Handlebar............................................................... 7

Move Tiller Off Shipping Platform...................................... 7

Install Forward Clutch Cable.............................................. 8

Install Reverse Clutch Cable .............................................. 9

Check Level of Transmission Gear Oil................................ 9

Add Motor Oil to Engine..................................................... 9

Check Hardware for Tightness........................................... 9

Check Air Pressure in Tires................................................ 9

SECTION 3: FEATURES & CONTROLS........................ 10

Wheel Drive Pins ............................................................... 10

Forward Clutch Bail............................................................ 11

Reverse Clutch Control...................................................... 11

Depth Regulator................................................................. 12

Handlebar Height Adjustment............................................ 12

SECTION 4: OPERATION ...................................... 13

Break-In Operation............................................................. 13

Starting and Stopping the Engine...................................... 13

Operating the Tiller............................................................ 14

Tilling Tips & Techniques .................................................. 16

Power Composting............................................................ 18

Loading and Unloading the Tiller....................................... 18

SECTION 5: MAINTENANCE .................................. 19

Required Maintenance Schedule........................................ 19

Tiller Lubrication................................................................ 20

Check for Oil Leaks............................................................ 20

Check Hardware................................................................. 20

Transmission Gear Oil Service........................................... 20

Bolo Tines.......................................................................... 21

Checking and Adjusting Forward Drive Belt Tension.......... 22

Forward Clutch Bail Adjustment......................................... 23

Checking and Adjusting Reverse Drive Belt Tension.......... 23

Engine Oil Service.............................................................. 23

Check Hardware................................................................. 23

Engine Service................................................................... 24

Off Season Storage............................................................ 24

Specifications.................................................................... 25

Troubleshooting................................................................. 26

Customer Service Information ............................... 27

Dear Owner:

You now own one of the finest rear-tine rototillers available.

Your new tiller allows you to till and cultivate your garden

with ease, and accomplish dozens of other property man-

agement projects as well. Your tiller is famous for its

ruggedness, performance and high-quality engineering. We

know you’ll enjoy using it.

Please carefully read this Manual. It tells you how to safely

and easily assemble, operate and maintain your machine.

Be sure that you and any other operators carefully follow

the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to

do so could result in personal injury or property damage.

Of course, if you should ever have any problems or

questions, please contact your local authorized service

dealer or call the Factory (see Page 27 of this manual).

We want to be sure that you are completely satisfied at all

times.

NOTE: Be sure to fill out and return the Warranty Registra-

tion Card that was supplied with this Manual.

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING

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.

MODEL CERTIFIED BY

INDEPENDENT LABORATORY

ANS B71.8- 1996 SAFETY STANDARD

PROGRAM

recommended that you read this Section

in its entirety before beginning assembly.

Inspect unit

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.

STEP 1: Unpacking Instructions

1. Remove any cardboard inserts and

packaging material from the carton.

Remove any staples from the bottom of

the carton and then lift the carton up and

off the unit.

2. The tiller is heavy and you should not

attempt to remove it from the shipping

platform until the handlebars are

installed. The procedure for removing the

tiller is explained in Step 3 of these

assembly steps. NOTE: Be careful not to

severely bend any of the control cables

on the unit.

3. Remove all unassembled parts and

the separate hardware bag from the

carton. Check that you have the items

listed below (contact your local dealer or

the factory if any items are missing or

damaged). NOTE: Use the screw length

template (Fig. 2-1) to identify screws.

Loose Parts List

Qty. Description

1Handlebar Support (see A, Fig. 2-2,

page 7)

1Handlebar Assembly

(see K, Fig. 2-2)

The following items are in the

hardware bag:

1Slotted hd. screw, #10-24 x 2"

1Hex hd. screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"

6Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

2Hex hd. screw, 3/8-16 x 3/4"

2Flat washer, 3/8"

6Split lockwasher, 5/16"

1Hex locknut, 1/4"-20

6Hex nut, 5/16"-18

1Hex nut, #10-24

2Hex locknut, 3/8"-16

1Spring, cable (see W, Fig. 2-5,

page 8)

1Bracket, forward clutch cable (see

P, Fig. 2-4, page 8)

1Bracket, reverse clutch cable (see

BB, Fig. 2-8, page 9)

IMPORTANT: Motor oil must be added to

the engine crankcase before the engine is

started. Follow the instructions in this

“Assembly” section.

NOTE: LEFT and RIGHT sides of the tiller

are as viewed from the operator’s

position behind the handlebars.

Tools/Materials Needed for

Assembly

(1) 3/8” open-end wrench*

(2) 7/16" open-end wrench*

(2) 1/2" open-end wrench*

(2) 9/16" open-end wrench*

(1) Large adjustable wrench

(1) Scissors (to trim plastic ties)

(1) Ruler (for belt tension check)

(1) Block of wood (to support tiller

when removing wheels)

(1) Automotive-type air pressure gauge

(1) Clean oil funnel

(1) Clean, high-quality engine oil. Refer

to the Engine Owner Manual for

engine oil specifications and quantity

required. Do not overfill.

* Adjustable wrenches may be used.

Section

Assembly

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.

Section 2: Assembly

STEP 2: Attach Handlebar

1. Attach the two legs of the handlebar

support (A, Fig. 2-2) loosely to the inner

sides of the tiller frame using two 3/8"-16

x 3/4" hex hd. screws (B), 3/8" flat

washers (C) and 3/8"-16 hex locknuts (D).

2. Using the middle holes in the handlebar

support brackets (E and F, Fig. 2-2),

loosely attach the support brackets to the

handlebar support (A) using two 5/16"-18

x 1-1/2" screws (G), 5/16" split lockwash-

ers (H) and 5/16"-18 hex nuts (I). NOTE: If

a support bracket will not move, loosen

attaching screw (J) and nut.

3. Attach the handlebar assembly (K) to

the handlebar support (A) using four

5/16"-18 x 1-1/2" screws (G), 5/16" split

lockwashers (H) and 5/16"-18 hex nuts (I).

Tighten the four screws securely.

4. Tighten all handlebar mounting

hardware securely.

STEP 3: Move Tiller Off Shipping

Platform

To move the tiller without the engine

running, put the wheels in their

FREEWHEEL position, as described below.

1. Use a sturdy block to raise one wheel

off the ground.

2. Remove the hairpin cotter (L, Fig. 2-3)

and wheel drive pin (M). Slide the wheel

inward on the wheel shaft (N). Reinstall

the wheel drive pin and hairpin cotter

through the wheel shaft only (not through

the wheel hub). Repeat with the other

wheel.

3. Using the handlebar as a lever, roll the

tiller to a flat area.

IMPORTANT: Before starting the engine,

the wheels must be placed in their WHEEL

DRIVE position (pins through wheel hubs

and wheel shaft). This procedure is

described in “Wheel Drive Pins” in

Section 3.

Fig. 2-2: Attach handlebar.

Fig. 2-3: Wheel in FREEWHEELING

position (wheel drive pin through wheel

shaft only).

Section 2: Assembly

STEP 4: Install Forward Clutch Cable

1. Place the forward clutch cable bracket (P, Fig.

2-4) on the handlebar support (A). Attach the

cable bracket using a 1/4"-20 x 1-1/4" hex hd.

screw (R, Fig. 2-4) and

1/4"-20 hex locknut (S). Tighten securely.

2. Carefully unwrap the forward clutch cable

(the cable without a knob attached to it) from its

shipping position and slide the thin cable wire

(T, Fig. 2-4) into the slot in the cable bracket.

Push the cable connector (U, Fig. 2-4) up

through the hole in the bracket until the groove

in the connector snaps into place on the bracket.

3. Insert the #10-24 x 2" slotted hd. screw (V,

Fig. 2-5) down into the cable spring (W). The

screw threads will extend down through the

spring.

4. Thread the #10-24 hex nut (Z, Fig. 2-5) on

the screw (V). Thread the hex nut about halfway

up the screw.

5. Thread the screw (V) into the cable adjuster

(X).

6. Hook the cable spring (W, Fig. 2-6) into the

“V”-shaped bend in the forward clutch bail (Y).

7. Check for correct tension on the forward

drive belt by taking two measurements of the

cable spring as follows:

a. With the forward clutch bail (Y, Fig. 2-6) in

an open (released) position, measure and

carefully note the overall length of the

cable spring (W) by measuring from the

outermost coil to the outermost coil.

b. Lift and hold the forward clutch bail

against the handlebar (see Fig. 2-7) and

re-measure the overall length of the coils

while the spring is under tension. The belt

tension is correct if this second measure-

ment is between 1/16" -to- 3/16" longer

than the first measurement. If so, turn the

hex nut (Z, Fig. 2-7) tightly against the

cable adjuster (X) while preventing the

adjuster from turning.

c. If the spring length is incorrect, you must

make an adjustment to the cable tension

as described in “Checking and Adjusting

Forward Drive Belt Tension” in Section 5.

Incorrect tension on the forward drive belt

can result in belt slippage (tension too

loose) or unintentional tine movement

when the clutch bail is in Neutral (tension

too tight).

Fig. 2-5: Assemble

spring and adjuster.

Fig. 2-6: Install forward clutch cable.

Fig. 2-4: Installing forward clutch cable bracket and cable.

Fig. 2-7: To check forward belt tension, take two measurements of the

overall length of the coils in the spring – first with the clutch bail open,

then with the clutch bail closed against the handlebar.

12345

Hold bail against handlebar while

taking second measurement of

spring

Section 2: Assembly

Fig. 2-8: Install reverse cable bracket and

reverse clutch cable.

STEP 5: Install Reverse Clutch

Cable

1. Remove the two pre-installed self-

tapping screws (AA, Fig. 2-8) from the

handlebars. Position the reverse cable

mounting bracket (BB, Fig. 2-8) as shown

and reinstall the two self-tapping screws.

2. Unwrap the reverse clutch cable (the

cable with a knob and a large hex nut

attached to it) from around its shipping

position and route the cable (CC, Fig. 2-8

and Fig. 2-9) up to the cable bracket (BB,

Fig. 2-8). Be sure that the cable goes

beneath the Forward Clutch Bail as it is

routed up to the cable bracket.

3. Insert the cable up through the slot in

the cable bracket and position the threaded

assembly as shown in Fig. 2-8. Make sure

that the flat side of the threaded assembly

is aligned with the flat side of the mounting

hole. Slide the large hex nut (DD) up the

cable and tighten it securely.

4. Fasten the reverse clutch cable to the

left side handlebar with a cable tie (EE,

Fig. 2-9).

5. Test the function of the reverse clutch

cable by pulling the knob out and

releasing it. The knob should return to its

neutral position (resting against bracket)

when it is released. If it doesn’t, contact

your local dealer or the factory for

technical assistance.

STEP 6: Check Level of

Transmission Gear Oil

The transmission was filled with gear oil

at the factory. However, you should check

the gear oil level to make certain it is

correct.

IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tiller if

the gear oil level is low. Doing so will

result in severe damage to the transmis-

sion components.

1. Put the tiller on level ground. Pull the

Depth Regulator Lever (FF, Fig. 2-10)

back and then all the way up until the

lowest notch in the lever is engaged.

2. Remove the oil fill plug (GG, Fig. 2-11)

from the transmission housing and look

into the oil fill hole. You will see the main

drive shaft on one side of the hole.

3. The gear oil level is correct if the gear

oil is approximately halfway up the side of

the drive shaft.

4. If the gear oil level is low, add gear oil

by referring to “A. To Check the Transmis-

sion Gear Oil Level” in Section 5.

STEP 7: Add Motor Oil to Engine

The tiller is shipped without oil in the

engine.

IMPORTANT: Do not start the engine

without first adding motor oil. Severe

engine damage will result if the engine is

run without oil.

1. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual

(supplied with tiller) for engine oil specifi-

cations and capacities.

2. With the tiller on level ground, pull the

Depth Regulator Lever (FF, Fig. 2-10)

back and then slide it up or down as

necessary until the engine is level.

3. Add motor oil as described in the

Engine Owner’s Manual.

Flat Side

Fig. 2-9: Route reverse clutch cable (CC) as

shown. Attach with cable tie (EE).

BRONCO

Fig. 2-11: Remove gear oil fill plug.

Fig. 2-10: Adjust Depth Regulator Lever.

4. Move the Depth Regulator Lever all

the way down until the highest notch is

engaged. This places the tines in the

“travel” position.

STEP 8: Check Hardware for

Tightness

Check all nuts and screws for tightness.

STEP 9: Check Air Pressure in

Tires

Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air

pressure in both tires. Deflate or inflate

both tires equally to 15-to-20 PSI

(pounds per square inch). Be sure that

both tires are inflated equally or the unit

will pull to one side.

IMPORTANT: This completes the

assembly steps. Before operating your

tiller, make sure you read the following

Sections in this Manual, as well as the

separate Engine Owner’s Manual:

• Section 1: “Safety”

• Section 3: “Features and Controls”

• Section 4: “Operation”

Wheel Drive Pins

Each wheel is equipped with a Wheel

Drive Pin (A, Figures 3-2 and 3-3) that

secures the wheel to the wheel shaft (B).

The wheels can be positioned in either a

WHEEL DRIVE or a FREEWHEEL mode.

Before starting the engine, put both

wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position by

inserting the Wheel Drive Pins through

the wheel hubs and the wheel shaft. This

“locks” the wheels to the wheel shaft,

causing the wheels to turn when either

the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse

Clutch Control is engaged.

Use the FREEWHEEL mode only when the

engine is not running. In FREEWHEEL,

the Wheel Drive Pins are placed only

through the holes in the wheel shaft (not

the wheel hubs), thus allowing the wheels

to turn freely when the tiller is pushed or

pulled by hand.

To Place the Wheels in WHEEL DRIVE or

FREEWHEEL:

1. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark

plug wire from the spark plug and allow

the engine to cool.

2. Raise one wheel off the ground and

place a sturdy support under the

transmission.

3. Remove the wheel drive pin (A,

Figures 3-2 and 3-3) by removing the

hairpin cotter (C).

WARNING

Never allow either of the

wheels to be in the

FREEWHEEL position when

the engine is running. Always

put both wheels in the WHEEL

DRIVE position before starting

the engine.

Failure to comply could cause

loss of tiller control, property

damage, or personal injury.

WARNING

Do not place the tiller on its

side when changing the wheel

drive positions as doing so

could result in gasoline

leaking from the fuel tank.

Failure to follow this instruc-

tion could result in personal

injury or property damage.

WARNING

Before operating your

machine, carefully read and

understand all safety, controls

and operating instructions in

this Manual, the separate

Engine Owner’s Manual, and

on the decals on the machine.

Failure to follow these

instructions can result in

serious personal injury.

Section

Features and Controls

Figure 3-1: Features and controls.

BRONCO

Wheel Drive Pin

(on each wheel)

Forward

Clutch Bail Reverse Clutch

Control

Depth Regulator

Handlebar Height

Adjustment

Introduction

This section describes the location and

function of the controls on your tiller.

Refer to the following section

“Operation” for detailed operating

instructions.

Practice using these controls, with the

engine shut off, until you understand the

operation of the controls and feel

confident with each of them.

IMPORTANT: Refer to the separate

engine manufacturer’s Engine Owner’s

Manual for information about the

controls on the engine.

Section 3: Features and Controls

4. FOR WHEEL DRIVE mode (Figure 3-2):

Slide the wheel outward and align the

holes in the wheel hub (D, Figure 3-2))

and the wheel shaft (B). Insert the wheel

drive pin (A) through the wheel hub and

the wheel shaft. Secure the wheel drive

pin with the hairpin cotter (C) by pushing

the hairpin cotter in as far as it will go.

Repeat for the other wheel and then

remove the support from beneath the

transmission.

5. FOR FREEWHEEL mode (Figure 3-3):

Slide the wheel inward and insert the

wheel drive pin (A, Figure 3-3) only

through the hole in the wheel shaft (B).

Secure the wheel drive pin with the

hairpin cotter (C) by pushing the hairpin

cotter in as far as it will go. Repeat for the

other wheel and then remove the support

from beneath the transmission.

Forward Clutch Bail

The Forward Clutch Bail (E, Figure 3-4)

controls the engagement of forward drive

to the wheels and tines.

To Operate the Forward Clutch Bail:

1. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE

position (see the following “WARNING”

statement).

2. Lift and hold the bail against the

handlebar. The wheels and tines will

rotate in a forward direction.

3. Release the bail to disengage (stop)

the wheels and tines. All forward motion

will stop (the engine will continue to run).

Reverse Clutch Control

The Reverse Clutch Control (F, Figure 3-4)

controls the engagement of reverse drive

to the wheels and tines. This reversing

feature is used for maneuvering the

tiller only – never engage the tines in

the ground while going in the reverse

direction.

To Operate the Reverse Clutch Control:

1. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE

position (see the “WARNING” statement

at the left).

2. Stop all tiller motion by releasing the

Forward Clutch Bail.

3. Lift up the handlebar until the tines

clear the ground, look behind you to avoid

any obstacles, and then pull the reverse

clutch control knob out. The wheels and

tines will rotate in a reverse direction.

4. Release the reverse clutch control

knob to disengage (stop) the wheels and

tines. All reverse motion will stop (the

engine will continue to run).

Figure 3-2: WHEEL DRIVE position.

Figure 3-3: FREEWHEEL position.

Figure 3-4: Forward Clutch Bail (E) and Reverse

Clutch Control (F).

WARNING

Before starting the engine, be

sure that both wheels are in

the WHEEL DRIVE position.

See “Wheel Drive Pins” for

instructions.

Engaging the Forward Clutch

Bail or the Reverse Clutch

Control when the wheels are

not in the WHEEL DRIVE

position could allow the tines

to rapidly propel the tiller

forward or backward.

Failure to comply could cause

loss of tiller control, property

damage, or personal injury.

WARNING

• Use extreme caution when

reversing or pulling the

machine towards you. Look

behind to avoid obstacles.

• Never attempt to till in

reverse.

Failure to follow this warning

could result in personal injury

or property damage.

Section 3: Features and Controls

Depth Regulator Lever

This lever (G, Figure 3-5) controls the

tilling depth of the tines. Pull the lever

straight back and slide it up or down to

engage the notched height settings.

The highest notch (lever all the way down)

raises the tines approximately 1-1/2" off

the ground. This “travel” setting allows

the tiller to be moved without the tines

digging into the ground. Also use this

setting when starting the engine.

Move the lever upward to increase the

tilling depth. The lowest notch allows a

tilling depth of approximately 6"-8",

depending on soil conditions.

For best results, always begin tilling at

a very shallow depth setting and

gradually increase the tilling depth.

Handlebar Height Adjustment

The handlebar height is adjustable to

three different settings (see Figure 3-6).

As a general rule, adjust the handlebars

so they are at waist level when the tines

are 3"-4" into the soil.

To Adjust the Handlebars:

1. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark

plug wire from the spark plug and allow

the engine to cool.

2. Remove the screws, lockwashers and

nuts, reposition the handlebars, and

reinstall the hardware.

ENGINE CONTROLS

Refer to the engine manufacturer’s Engine

Owner’s Manual (included in the tiller lit-

erature package) to identify the controls

on your engine.

IMPORTANT: The control for stopping the

engine is located on the engine.

Figure 3-5: Depth Regulator Lever (G).

Travel

Position

Shallow

Settings Deep

Settings

Figure 3-6: Handlebar height adjustment.

WARNING

• Do not attempt to till too

deeply too quickly. Gradually

work down to deeper tilling

depths.

• Place the Depth Regulator

Lever in the “travel”

position before starting the

engine. This position

prevents the tines from

touching the ground until you

are ready to begin tilling.

Failure to follow this warning

could result in personal injury

or property damage.

High

Low

Medium

Figure 4-1

Section

Operation

WARNING

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.

Failure to follow these instruc-

tions can result in serious

personal injury.

INTRODUCTION

Read this Section of the manual thor-

oughly before you start the engine. Then,

take the time to familiarize yourself with

the basic operation of the tiller before

using it in the garden. Find an open, level

area and practice using the tiller controls

without the tines engaging the soil (put

tines in “travel” setting). Only after

you’ve become completely familiar with

the tiller should you begin using it in the

garden.

BREAK-IN OPERATION

Perform the following maintenance

during the first hours of new operation

(see “Maintenance” section in this manual

and in the Engine Owner’s Manual).

1. Change engine oil after first 2 hours of

new engine operation.

2. Check for loose or missing hardware

on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.

3. Check tension on forward drive belt

after first 2 hours of operation.

4. Check transmission gear oil level after

first 2 hours of operation.

STARTING AND STOPPING THE

ENGINE

Pre-Start Checklist

Make the following checks and perform

the following services before starting the

engine.

1. Read the “Safety” and “Controls”

sections in this manual. Read the

separate Engine Owner’s Manual provided

by the engine manufacturer.

2. Check that the wheels are in the

WHEEL DRIVE position (wheel pins must

be through the wheel hubs and the wheel

shaft holes).

3. Check unit for loose or missing

hardware. Service as required.

4. Check engine oil level. See Engine

Owner’s Manual.

5. Check that all safety guards and

covers are in place.

6. Check air cleaner and engine cooling

system. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.

8. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline

according to the directions in the separate

Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow all

instructions and safety rules carefully.

BRONCO

Forward Clutch Bail

Depth Regulator Lever

Recoil Starter Wheel Drive Pin

(on each wheel)

Reverse Clutch Control

(knob on back of bracket)

DANGER

GASOLINE IS HIGHLY

FLAMMABLE AND ITS

VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE.

Follow gasoline safety rules in

this manual (see Section 1)

and in the separate Engine

Owner’s Manual.

Failure to follow gasoline

safety instructions can result

in serious personal injury

and property damage.

Starting the Engine

The following steps describe how to start

and stop the engine. Do not attempt to

engage the tines or wheels until you

have read all of the operating instruc-

tions 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.”

1. Complete the “Pre-Start Checklist” on

the previous page.

2. Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE

position (see “Wheel Drive Pins” in

Section 3).

3. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the

“travel” position (lever all the way down)

so that the tines are clear of the ground.

4. Release all controls on the tiller.

5. If engine is equipped with a fuel valve,

turn valve to open position as instructed

in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

6. Put ignition switch and/or throttle

control lever on engine in “ON”, “RUN”,

“FAST” or “START” position as instructed

in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

7. Choke or prime engine as instructed in

the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

8. Place one hand on the fuel tank to

stabilize the unit when you pull the starter

handle. Use the recoil starter rope to start

the engine as instructed in the separate

Engine Owner’s Manual. When engine

starts, gradually move choke lever (on

engines so equipped) to “NO CHOKE”,

“CHOKE OFF” or “RUN” position.

9. Use the “FAST” throttle speed setting

when tilling.

Stopping the Engine and Tiller

1. To stop the wheels and tines, release

the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse

Clutch Control (whichever control is in

use).

2. To stop the engine, put ignition switch

and/or throttle control lever on engine in

“OFF” or “STOP” position.

OPERATING THE TILLER

The following pages provide guidelines to

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.

This is a traditional “standard rotating

tine” tiller with forward rotating tines. It

operates completely differently from

CAUTION

To help prevent serious

personal injury or damage to

equipment:

• Before starting engine, put

both wheels in the WHEEL

DRIVE position. Never have

the wheels in the

FREEWHEEL position when

the engine is running. When

the wheels are in

FREEWHEEL, they do not

hold back the tiller and the

tines could propel the tiller

rapidly forward or backward.

• Before starting engine, put

Forward Clutch Bail and

Reverse Clutch Control in

neutral (disengaged) positions

by releasing levers.

• Never run engine indoors or

in enclosed, poorly venti-

lated areas. Engine exhaust

contains carbon monoxide,

an odorless and deadly gas.

• Avoid engine muffler and

nearby areas. Temperatures

in these areas may exceed

150oF.

recent CRT (Counter Rotating Tines)

tillers or from low-cost front tine tillers.

1. Follow the “Pre-Start Checklist” on the

previous page. Be sure that the wheels

are in the WHEEL DRIVE position.

2. Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the

“travel” position (lever all the way down)

so that the tines are clear of the ground.

Use this position when practicing with

your tiller or when moving to or from the

garden. When you are ready to begin

tilling, you must move the Depth

Regulator Lever to the desired depth

setting (see “Tilling Tips & Techniques”).

3. Start the engine and allow it to warm

up. When warm, put throttle control in

fast speed setting.

4. For forward motion of the wheels and

tines:

(a) Pull the Forward Clutch Bail up and

hold it against the handlebar.

Release the bail to stop forward

motion of the wheels and tines.

(b) As the tiller moves forward, relax

and let the wheels pull the unit along

while the tines dig. Walk behind and

a little to one side of the tiller. Use a

light but secure grip with one hand

on the handlebars, but keep your

arm loose. See Figure 4-2. Let the

tiller move ahead at its own pace

and do not push down on the han-

dlebars to try and force the tiller to

dig deeper – this takes weight off

the wheels, reduces traction, and

causes the tines to try and propel

the tiller.

Section 4: Operation

WARNING

Keep away from rotating

tines. Rotating tines will

cause injury. Figure 4-2: Use one hand to guide tiller

when moving forward.

Section 4: Operation

5. For reverse motion of the wheels and

tines:

(a) Look behind and exercise caution

when operating in reverse. Do not

till while in reverse.

(b) Stop all forward motion before

reversing. Lift the handlebars with

one hand until the tines are off the

ground and then pull the Reverse

Clutch Control knob out to engage

reverse motion (see Figure 4-3). To

stop reverse motion, let go of the

Reverse Clutch Control knob.

6. To Turn the Tiller Around:

(a) Practice turning the tiller in a level,

open area. Be very careful to keep

your feet and legs away from the

tines.

(b) To make a turn, lift the handlebars

until the engine and tines are

balanced over the wheels (Figure

4-4). The tines must be out of the

ground while turning the tiller.

sideways on the handlebar to move

the tiller in the direction of the turn

(Figure 4-5). After completing the

turn, slowly lower the tines into the

soil to resume tilling.

Stopping the Tiller and Engine

1. To stop the wheels and tines, release

the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse

Clutch Control (whichever is engaged).

2. To stop the engine, move the ignition

switch and/or throttle control lever on the

engine to the “OFF” or “STOP” position.

Turning the Tiller Around

Figure 4-3: Raise tines off ground and look

behind when moving in reverse.

Figure 4-4: To begin turn, lift handlebars

until engine and tines are balanced over

wheels. Be sure tines are out of ground.

Figure 4-5: With tiller balanced over

wheels (and tines out of the ground), push

handlebars sideways to turn tiller.

WARNING

Do not push down on the

handlebars to try to make the

tiller till more deeply. This

prevents the wheels from

holding the tiller back and can

allow the tines to rapidly

propel the tiller forward,

which could result in loss of

control, property damage, or

personal injury.

Section 4: Operation

Tilling Tips &Techniques

Let the tiller do the work

• 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 foot-

prints in the freshly tilled soil) and

lightly, but securely grip the handlebar

with just one hand. See Figure 4-2.

• Avoid the temptation to push 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 at all.)

Tilling depths

• Avoid trying to dig too deeply too

quickly, especially when busting sod or

when tilling soil that hasn’t been tilled

for some time. Use shallow depth

regulator settings (only an inch or two

deep) for the first passes through the

garden area. 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.)

• When cultivating (breaking up the

surface soil around plants to help

destroy weeds), adjust the tines to dig

only 1-1/2" to 2" deep. Using shallow

tilling depths helps prevent injury to

plants whose roots often grow close to

the surface. If needed, lift up on the han-

dlebars 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.)

Avoid tilling soggy, wet 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 soil by

squeezing it into a ball. If it compresses

too easily, it is too wet to till.

Avoid making footprints

Whenever possible, walk on the untilled

side of the unit to avoid making foot-

prints in your freshly tilled or cultivated

soil. Footprints cause soil compaction

that can hamper root penetration and

contribute to soil erosion. They can also

“plant” unwanted weed seeds back into

the freshly tilled ground.

Choosing correct wheel

and tine speeds

With experience, you will find the “just

right” tilling depth and tilling speed com-

bination that is best for your garden.

Set the engine throttle lever at a speed to

give the engine adequate power and yet

allow it to operate at the slowest

possible speed...at least until you have

achieved the maximum tilling depth you

desire. Faster engine speeds may be

desirable when making final passes

through the seedbed or when cultivating.

Selection of the correct engine speed, in

relation to the tilling depth, will ensure a

sufficient power level to do the job

without causing the engine to labor.

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 (see Figure 4-6).

When finished in one direction, make a

second pass at a right angle as shown

in Figure 4-7. Overlap each pass for

best results (in very hard ground it

may take three or four passes to thor-

oughly pulverize the soil).

• 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 succes-

sive passes at one-quarter width (see

Figure 4-8).

• With planning, you can allow enough

room between rows to cultivate (see

Figure 4-9). Leave room for the hood

width, plus enough extra room for

future plant growth.

Figure 4-6

Figure 4-7

Figure 4-8

Figure 4-9

Section 4: Operation

Tilling Tips &Techniques

Clearing the tines

The tines have a self-clearing action

which eliminates most tangling of debris

in the tines. However, occasionally dry

grass, stringy stalks or tough vines may

become tangled. Follow these proce-

dures to help avoid tangling and to clean

the tines, if necessary.

• 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.

• While power composting, try swaying

the handlebars from side to side (about

6" to 12"). This “fishtailing” action

often clears the tines of debris.

• If tangling occurs, lift the tines out of

the soil and run the tiller in reverse for

a few feet. This reversing action

should unwind a good deal of debris.

• If reversing the tiller doesn’t clear the

debris, it may be necessary to remove

the debris by hand (a pocket knife will

help you to cut away the material).

Tilling on slopes

If you must garden on a moderate slope,

please follow two very important guide-

lines:

1. Till only on moderate slopes, never on

steep ground where footing is difficult

(review safety rules in the “Safety”

section of this manual).

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.

IMPORTANT: When tilling on slopes, be

sure the correct oil level is maintained in

the engine (check every one-half hour of

operation). The incline of the slope will

cause the oil to slant away from its

normal level and this can starve engine

parts of required lubrication. Keep the

engine oil level at the full point at all

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.

• When tilling vertically, try to make the

first pass uphill as 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.

B. Terrace Gardening:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 4-10.

• 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.

C. Tilling across slopes without using

terraces:

• 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.

• 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 of the tiller, always keep the

uphill wheel in the soft, newly tilled soil.

12" UNTILLED

1REPEAT

DOWNHILL

UPHILL

Figure 4-10

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.

Section 4: Operation

POWER COMPOSTING

Power composting simply 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.

The first place to begin is with 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.

• Ramps must be strong enough to

support the combined weight of the tiller

and any handlers. The ramps 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.

• The handlers should wear sturdy

footwear that will help to prevent

slipping.

• Position the loading vehicle so that the

ramp angle is as flat as possible (the

less incline to the ramp, the better).

Turn the vehicle’s engine off and apply

its parking brake.

• When going up ramps, stand in the

normal operating position and push the

tiller ahead of you. Have a person at

each side to turn the wheels.

• When going down ramps, walk

backward with the tiller following you.

Keep alert for any obstacles behind you.

Position a person at each wheel to

control the speed of the tiller. Never go

down ramps tiller-first, as the tiller could

tip forward.

• Use wooden blocks to place on the

downhill side of the wheels if you need

to stop the tiller from rolling down the

ramp. Also, use the blocks to temporar-

ily keep the tiller in place on the ramps

(if necessary), and to chock the wheels

in place after the tiller is in the vehicle.

• When the tiller is in the vehicle, prevent

it from rolling by engaging the wheels in

the wheel drive position (put Wheel Gear

Lever in ENGAGE). Chock the wheels

with blocks and securely tie the tiller

down.

Standing cornstalks of reasonable height

can be power composted. 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 fre-

quently using reverse. Make several

passes, then return a few days later to

finish off any remaining stubble.

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.

After power composting, you may want to

plant a “green manure” cover crop to

protect the soil during the off-season.

You simply grow a crop of clover, alfalfa,

buckwheat, peas, beans, rye grass, grain,

or kale and then till it into the soil prior to

the planting season.

LOADING AND UNLOADING THE

TILLER

• Before loading or unloading, stop the

engine, wait for all parts to stop moving,

disconnect the spark plug wire and let

the engine and muffler cool.

• The tiller is too heavy and bulky to lift

safely by one person. Two or more

people should share the load.

• Use sturdy ramps and manually (engine

shut off) roll the tiller into and out of the

vehicle. Two or more people are needed

to do this.

WARNING

Loading and unloading the

tiller into a vehicle is poten-

tially hazardous and we don’t

recommend doing so unless

absolutely necessary, as this

could result in personal

injury or property damage.

However, if you must load or

unload the tiller, follow the

guidelines given next.

WARNING

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.

Failure to comply could

result in loss of tiller control,

property damage or personal

injury.

WARNING

Before tilling, contact your

telephone or utilities

company and inquire if

underground equipment or

lines are used in your area.

Their representative will be

glad to answer your

questions and tell you if any

of their equipment or lines

are buried underground on

your property.

Section

Maintenance

REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Before Every Every As

PROCEDURE Each 10 30 Noted

Use Hours Hours

Check engine oil level •And every 5

operating hours

Clean engine •▲

Check drive belt tension •✝

Check nuts and bolts •✝

Change engine oil •*

Lubricate tiller •

Service engine air cleaner system ▲

Check gear oil level in •✝

transmission

Check tines for wear •

Check air pressure in tires •

Service spark plug ▲

* Change more frequently in dusty or dirty conditions. Change after first 2 hours of

break-in operation.

✝ Check after first 2 hours of break-in operation.

▲See Engine Owner’s Manual for service intervals and instructions.

WARNING

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.

Failure to follow these

instructions can result in

serious personal injury or

property damage.

Section 5: Maintenance

TILLER LUBRICATION

Proper lubrication of the tiller is an

essential part of your maintenance

program. After every 10 operating

hours, oil or grease the lubrication points

shown in Figure 5-1 and described

below.

Use a good quality lubricating oil (#30

weight engine oil is suitable) and a good

quality general purpose grease (grease

that has a metal lubricant is preferred, if

available).

• Remove wheels, clean wheel shaft (A,

Fig. 5-1) and apply thin coating of

grease to shaft.

• Grease back, front and sides of depth

regulator lever (B, Fig. 5-1).

• Remove tines, clean tine shafts (C, Fig.

5-1) and inspect for rust, rough spots

or burrs (especially around holes). File

or sand smooth and coat ends of shaft

with grease.

• Oil the threads on the handlebar height

adjustment screws and the handlebar

attaching screws (D, Fig. 5-1).

TRANSMISSION GEAR OIL SERVICE

Check the transmission gear oil level after

every 30 hours of operation or whenever

you notice any oil leak. Operating the

tiller when the transmission is low on oil

can result in severe damage.

A. To Check the Transmission

Gear Oil Level:

1. Check the gear oil level when the trans-

mission is cool. Gear oil will expand in

warm operating temperatures and this

expansion will provide an incorrect oil

level reading.

2. With the tiller on level ground, pull the

Depth Regulator Lever all the way up.

3. Remove the oil fill plug (A, Fig. 5-2)

from the transmission housing and look

into the oil fill hole. You will see the main

drive shaft on one side of the hole.

4. The gear oil level is correct if the gear

oil is approximately halfway up the side of

the drive shaft.

5. If the gear oil level is low, add gear oil

as described next. If the gear oil level is

okay, securely replace the oil fill plug.

IMPORTANT: Do not operate the tiller if

the gear oil level is low. Doing so will

result in severe damage to the transmis-

sion components.

6. If adding only a few ounces of gear

oil, use API rated GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil

having a viscosity of SAE 140, SAE 85W-

140 or SAE 80W-90. If refilling an empty

transmission, use only GL-4 gear oil

having a viscosity of SAE 85W-140 or

SAE 140.

7. While checking frequently to avoid

overfilling, slowly add gear oil into the oil

fill hole until it reaches the halfway point

on the drive shaft.

8. Securely replace the oil fill plug.

CHECK FOR OIL LEAKS

Before each use, check your tiller for

signs of an oil leak – usually a dirty, oily

accumulation either on the unit or on the

floor where it has been parked.

A little seepage around a cover or oil seal

is usually not a cause for alarm. However,

if the oil drips overnight then immediate

attention is needed as ignoring a leak can

result in severe transmission damage.

If a cover is leaking, try tightening any

loose screws. If the screws are tight, a

new gasket or oil seal may be required. If

the leak is from around a shaft and oil

seal, the oil seal probably needs to be

replaced. See your authorized dealer or

contact the factory for service or advice.

IMPORTANT: Never operate the tiller if

the transmission is low on oil. Check the

oil level after every 30 hours of operation

and whenever there is any oil leakage.

CHECK HARDWARE

Check for loose or missing hardware after

every 10 operating hours. Tighten or

replace hardware before using the tiller.

Be sure to check the screws underneath

the tiller hood (lift the hood flap) that

secure the transmission cover and the

depth regulator lever to the transmission.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Check the air pressure in both tires.

Deflate or inflate both tires evenly from

15-to-20 PSI (pounds per square inch).

Be sure that both tires have the same air

pressure or the unit will tend to pull to

one side.

Figure 5-1 A

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all

parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or

property damage.

Section 5: Maintenance

B. To Drain the Transmission Gear Oil:

The transmission gear oil does not need

to be changed unless it has been contam-

inated with dirt, sand or metal particles.

1. Drain gasoline from the fuel tank or

run the engine until the fuel tank is empty.

See “DANGER” statement above.

2. Drain the oil from the engine.

3. Remove the four screws (B, Figure 5-2)

and washers from the transmission cover

and remove the cover and gasket.

4. Remove the left-side wheel.

5. Tilt the left-side wheel shaft into a

drain pan and allow the gear oil to drain

through the top of the transmission.

6. After draining the oil, reinstall the

wheel, install a new gasket cover (do not

reuse old gasket) and reinstall the trans-

mission cover.

7. Refill the transmission using GL-4

transmission gear oil (SAE 85W-140 or

SAE 140).

8. Refill the engine with motor oil and

replenish the fuel tank with gasoline.

BOLO TINES

The bolo tines will wear with use and they

should be inspected at the beginning of

each tilling season and after every 30

operating hours. The tines can be

replaced individually or as a complete set.

See the separate Parts Catalog for tine

identification and ordering information.

A. Tine Inspection:

With use, the tines will become shorter,

narrower and pointed. Badly worn tines

will result in a loss of tilling depth and

reduced effectiveness when chopping up

and turning under organic matter.

B. Removing a Single Tine:

1. With the engine shut off and the spark

plug wire disconnected, remove the two

screws (A, Figure 5-3) and locknuts (B)

that attach a single tine to the tine holder.

If needed, use penetrating oil to help free

the nuts.

2. When installing a single tine, be sure to

position it so that its cutting edge will

enter the soil first as the tiller moves

forward.

C. Removing a Tine Assembly:

1. A tine assembly consists of eight tines

mounted on a tine holder.

2. If removing both tine assemblies, mark

them “left” and “right” before removal.

Remove the screw (C, Figure 5-3) and

locknut (D) that secure the tine assembly

to the tine shaft. If necessary, use a

rubber mallet to tap the tine assembly

outward off the shaft.

3. Before reinstalling the tine assembly,

inspect the tine shaft for rust, rough

spots or burrs and file or sand as needed.

Apply a thin coat of grease to the shaft.

4. Install each tine assembly so that the

cutting edge of the tines will enter the

soil first when the tiller moves forward.

Secure the tine assembly to the tine shaft

using the screw and locknut previously

removed.

Figure 5-2: Remove oil fill plug (A) to check

gear oil level and to add gear oil. Remove

four cover screws (B) to drain gear oil.

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all

parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or

property damage.

DANGER

Gasoline is highly flammable

and its vapors are explosive.

Follow these safety practices

to prevent personal injury or

property damage from fire or

explosion.

• Allow the engine and

muffler to cool for at least two

minutes before draining the

tiller’s gasoline tank.

• Do not allow open flames,

sparks, matches or smoking

in the area.

• Wipe away spills and push

tiller away from spilled fuel.

• Use only an approved fuel

container and store it safely

out of the reach of children.

• Do not store gasoline in an

area where its vapors could

reach an open flame or spark,

or where ignition sources are

present (such as hot water

and space heaters, furnaces,

clothes dryers, stoves,

electric motors, etc.)

CHECKING AND ADJUSTING

FORWARD DRIVE BELT TENSION

Maintaining correct tension on the

forward drive belt is important to good

tilling performance and long belt life.

A loose belt will slip on the engine and

transmission pulleys and cause the tines

and wheels to slow down – or stop com-

pletely – even though the engine is

running at full speed. A belt that is too

tight can result in unintentional tine

movement when the clutch bail is in the

Neutral (released) position.

Also check the belt for cracks, cuts or

frayed edges and replace it as soon as

possible.

• Check belt tension after the first two

hours of break-in operation (new belt).

• Check belt tension after every 10

operating hours.

To Check Forward Belt Tension:

1. Stop the engine, wait for all parts to

stop moving and disconnect the spark

plug wire.

2. With the forward clutch bail in an open

(released) position, measure and carefully

note the overall length of the cable spring

(A, Figure 5-4) by measuring from the

outermost coil to the outermost coil.

3. Lift and hold the forward clutch bail

against the handlebar (see Figure 5-4) and

re-measure the overall length of the coils

while the spring is under tension. The belt

tension is correct if this second measure-

ment is between 1/16" -to- 3/16" longer

than the first measurement.

4. If the spring is too short (less than

1/16" greater than the first measurement),

the tension is too loose. If the spring is

too long (more than 3/16" greater than the

first measurement), the tension is too

tight.

5. To adjust the length of the spring:

a. Release the Forward Clutch Bail.

b. Unthread the hex nut (C, Figure 5-4)

about halfway up the adjustment

screw (D).

c. Unhook the top of the spring from

the forward clutch bail.

d. Use pliers to prevent the adjuster (B)

from turning and turn the slotted

screw located inside the screw

clockwise (viewed from operator’s

position) to increase tension on the

spring. Turn the screw counter-

clockwise to decrease tension on the

spring. Once adjusted, rehook the

top of the spring to the forward

clutch bail. (Continue to Step 5e.)

Figure 5-3: Install tines so that cutting edge of tines will enter soil first when tiller moves

forward.

Section 5: Maintenance

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all

parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or

property damage.

ENGINE

Figure 5-4: To check forward belt tension, take two measurements of

the overall length of the coils in the spring – first with the clutch bail

open, then with the clutch bail closed against the handlebar.

12345

Hold bail against handlebar while

taking second measurement of

spring

Section 5: Maintenance

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all

parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or

property damage.

e. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to re-measure

the length of the spring coils. When

the second measurement (with bail

closed against handlebar) is

between 1/16" -to- 3/16" longer than

the first measurement, retighten the

hex nut (C) against the top of the

adjuster (B).

Replacement Belt Information

If the drive belt needs to be replaced, see

your local authorized dealer or refer to

your Parts Catalog for ordering informa-

tion. Use only a factory-authorized belt

as an “over the counter” belt may not

perform satisfactorily. The procedure

requires average mechanical ability and

commonly available tools.

FORWARD CLUTCH

BAIL ADJUSTMENT

If the Forward Clutch Bail does not

function properly, first check that the

forward drive belt is adjusted properly

(see “Checking and Adjusting Forward

Drive Belt Tension”). If this fails to

correct the problem, contact the factory

technical service department or your

authorized dealer for service advice.

CHECKING AND ADJUSTING

REVERSE DRIVE BELT TENSION

Maintaining correct tension on the

reverse drive belt is important to good

performance and long belt life. A loose

belt will slip on the engine and transmis-

sion pulleys and cause the tines and

wheels to slow down – or stop com-

pletely – even though the engine is

running at full speed. A loose belt can

also result in premature belt wear.

If there is no reverse action when the

Reverse Clutch Control knob is pulled

out, then the belt tension is too loose.

When checking belt tension, also check

the belt for cracks, cuts or frayed edges

and replace it as soon as possible.

• Check belt tension after the first two

hours of break-in operation (new belt).

• Check belt tension after every 10

operating hours.

To Check Reverse Belt Tension:

1. Be sure that the engine is stopped and

the spark plug wire is disconnected and

moved away from the spark plug.

2. Remove the screw in the plastic belt

cover and slide the cover (which is

attached to the forward clutch cable) out

of the way.

3. Have an assistant pull the Reverse

Clutch Control knob all the way out and

hold it in that position. Measure the

length of the cable wire between the end

of the threaded cable adjuster (A, Figure

5-5) and the end of the Z-fitting (B) to

which the cable wire is attached.

4. The belt tension is ideal if the cable

wire length measures between 1/8" to

1/4". If the length is less than 1/8" (and if

there is no reverse action when the tiller is

running), then make the following adjust-

ments. NOTE: If the length is more than

1/4", no adjustment is needed, as long as

the reverse action functions properly.

5. Release the Reverse Clutch Control

knob. Unthread the inner jam nut (C,

Figure 5-6) one to two turns and pull the

threaded cable adjuster (A, Figure 5-6) to

the left until the inner jam nut rests

against the bracket.

6. Prevent the inner jam nut (C) from

turning and tighten the outer jam nut (D)

against the bracket. Prevent the outer

jam nut (D) from turning and tighten the

inner jam nut (C) against the bracket.

7. Measure the gap by repeating Step 3.

Readjust as needed by repeating Steps 5

and 6.

8. Reinstall the belt cover.

Replacement Belt Information

If the drive belt needs to be replaced, see

your local authorized dealer or refer to

your Parts Catalog for ordering informa-

tion. Use only a factory-authorized belt

as an “over the counter” belt may not

perform satisfactorily. The procedure

requires average mechanical ability and

commonly available tools.

Figure 5-5: Measure cable wire length to

check for correct reverse belt tension.

A B

Figure 5-6: Move threaded

adjuster (A) to left to increase

belt tension.

DCA

Section 5: Maintenance

WARNING Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the unit, shut off engine, wait for all

parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or

property damage.

ENGINE OIL SERVICE

Check the engine oil level before starting

the engine each day and check it after each

5 hours of continuous operation. Running

the engine when it is low on oil will quickly

ruin the engine.

It is recommended that you change the

engine oil after every 10 hours of operation

and even sooner when operating in

extremely dirty or dusty conditions. Refer

to the separate Engine Owner’s Manual for

detailed service instructions.

A. To Check the Engine Oil Level:

1. Move the tiller to a level area and shut

off the engine.

2. Level the engine by putting the Depth

Regulator Lever in the second notch from

the top.

3. Clean the area around the oil dipstick or

oil fill tube to prevent dirt from falling into

the crankcase.

4. On engines with an oil fill tube, remove

the filler cap, add oil (if required) until it

reaches the top of the tube and reinstall the

filler cap.

5. On engines with a dipstick, remove it,

wipe it clean, and reinstall it finger-tight.

Remove the dipstick and check the reading.

Add oil (if required) to bring the level to the

FULL mark. Do not overfill.

B. To Change the Engine Oil:

Change the engine oil as instructed in the

separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

ENGINE CLEANING

Keep the engine clean to assure smooth

operation and to prevent damage from

overheating. Refer to the separate Engine

Owner’s Manual for specific repair and

cleaning instructions. All inspections and

services must be done with the engine shut

off and cool to the touch.

AIR CLEANER SERVICE

The engine air cleaner filters dirt and dust

out of the air before it enters the carbure-

tor. Operating the engine with a dirty,

clogged air filter can cause poor perfor-

mance 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.

Service the air cleaner as instructed in the

separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

SPARK PLUG SERVICE

Inspect and clean or replace the spark plug

after every 100 operating hours or

annually. Clean the plug and set the gap as

described in the separate Engine Owner’s

Manual.

In some areas, local law requires using

resistor spark plugs to suppress ignition

signals. If the engine was originally

equipped with a resistor spark plug, use

the same type for replacement.

SPARK ARRESTER SCREEN SERVICE

If the engine muffler is equipped with a

spark arrester screen, remove and clean it

according to the time intervals and instruc-

tions in the separate Engine Owner’s

Manual.

THROTTLE LEVER ADJUSTMENT

If the engine does not respond to various

throttle lever settings, refer to the separate

Engine Owner’s Manual for service infor-

mation or contact your local authorized

engine service dealer.

CARBURETOR/GOVERNOR CONTROL

ADJUSTMENTS

The carburetor was adjusted at the factory

for best operating speed. Refer to the

separate Engine Owner’s Manual for any

adjustment information or see your autho-

rized engine service dealer.

The governor controls the maximum

safe operating speed and protects the

engine and all moving parts from

damage caused by overspeeding. Do

not tamper with the engine governor

settings.

OFF SEASON STORAGE

When the tiller won’t be used for

extended periods, prepare it for storage

as follows:

1. Clean the tiller and engine.

2. Do routine tiller lubrication and check

for loose parts and hardware.

3. Protect the engine and perform rec-

ommended engine maintenance by

following the engine storage instruc-

tions found in the separate Engine

Owner’s Manual. NOTE: Be sure to

protect the fuel lines, carburetor and

fuel tank from gum deposits by

removing fuel or by treating fuel with a

fuel stabilizer (follow engine manufac-

turer’s recommendations).

4. Store unit in a clean, dry area.

5. Never store the tiller with fuel in the

fuel tank in an enclosed area where gas

fumes could reach an open flame or

spark, or where ignition sources are

present (space heaters, hot water

heaters, furnaces, etc.).

WARNING

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.

Section 5: Maintenance

TROUBLESHOOTING

Before performing any corrections, refer to the appropriate information in this Manual, or in the Engine Owner’s Manual, for the

correct safety precautions and operating or maintenance procedures. Contact your local authorized Engine Service Dealer for

engine service. Contact your local authorized equipment dealer or the factory for all other service problems.

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION

Engine does 1. Spark plug wire disconnected. 1. Reconnect wire.

not start. 2. Engine Throttle Control Lever incorrectly set. 2. Put lever in START position.

3. Fuel tank empty. 3. Add fuel.

4. Choke control (if so equipped) in incorrect position. 4. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

5. Stale gasoline. 5. Drain fuel and add fresh fuel.

6. Dirty air filter(s). 6. Clean or replace filter(s).

7. Defective or incorrectly gapped spark plug. 7. Inspect spark plug.

8. Carburetor out of adjustment. 8. See Engine Service Dealer.

9. Misadjusted throttle control. 9. See Engine Service Dealer

10.Dirt or water in fuel tank. 10. See Engine Service Dealer.

Engine runs poorly. 1. Defective or incorrectly gapped spark plug. 1. Inspect spark plug (see Engine Owner’s Manual).

2. Dirty air filter(s). 2. Clean or replace (see Engine Owner’s Manual).

3. Carburetor out of adjustment. 3. See Engine Service Dealer.

4. Stale gasoline. 4. Replace with fresh gasoline.

5. Dirt or water in fuel tank. 5. See Engine Service Dealer.

6. Engine cooling system clogged. 6. Clean air cooling system (see Engine Owner’s Manual).

Engine overheats. 1. Engine cooling system clogged. 1. Clean air cooling area (see Engine Owner’s Manual).

2. Carburetor out of adjustment. 2. See Engine Service Dealer.

3. Oil level is low. 3. Check oil level (see Engine Owner’s Manual).

Engine does not

shut off. 1. Misadjusted throttle control or ignition switch. 1. See Engine Owner’s Manual or Engine Service Dealer.

Wheels and Tines 1. Improper use of controls. 1. Review Sections 3 and 4.

will not turn. 2. Worn, broken, or misadjusted drive belt(s). 2. See “Checking Drive Belt Tension,” Section 5.

3. Internal transmission wear or damage. 3 Contact local dealer or the factory.

4. Bolt loose in transmission pulley. 4. Tighten bolt.

Tines turn, but 1. Wheel Drive Pins not in WHEEL DRIVE. 1. See “Wheel Drive Pins” in Section 3.

wheels don’t. 2. Bolt loose in transmission pulley. 2. Tighten bolt.

3. Internal transmission wear or damage. 3. Contact local Dealer or the Factory.

Wheels Turn, but 1. Tine holder mounting hardware missing. 1. Replace hardware.

Tines Don’t. 2. Bolt loose in transmission pulley. 2. Tighten bolt.

3. Internal transmission wear or damage. 3. Contact local Dealer or the Factory.

Poor tilling 1. Worn tines. 1. See “Bolo Tines” (Section 5).

performance. 2. Improper Depth Regulator setting. 2. See “Tilling Tips & Techniques,” Section 4.

3. Incorrect throttle setting. 3. See Section 4.

4. Forward Drive Belt slipping. 4. See “Checking Forward Drive Belt Tension,” Section 5.

TILLER SPECIFICATIONS/ATTACHMENTS

TILLER SPECIFICATIONS

TILLER HEIGHT (with Depth Regulator Lever in highest setting):

Without Handlebars .................................................................................25-1/2"

Handlebars in lowest setting.....................................................................38-1/4"

Handlebars in highest setting...................................................................47-1/2"

TILLER LENGTH

Without Handlebars..................................................................................38"

Handlebars in lowest setting.....................................................................57"

TILLER WIDTH

Hood Width..............................................................................................17-1/2"

Tilling Width.............................................................................................16"

Wheel Width.............................................................................................17-1/2"

Handlebar Width.......................................................................................18"

TILLER WEIGHT

Approximate Weight (without oil or gas)..................................................132 lbs.

TRANSMISSION GEAR OIL SPECIFICATIONS

For small top-offs: Use SAE 140, SAE 85W-140, or SAE 80W-90 gear oil with an

API rating of either GL-4 or GL-5.

For Full Replacement: Use SAE 140 or SAE 85W-140 gear oil with API rating of

GL-4 (do not use GL-5).

TILLER ATTACHMENTS

The attachments listed below are available for your tiller. The information is the

most current at the time this manual was printed. Contact your authorized dealer or

the factory for current information.

BUMPER

A tubular steel bumper surrounds the engine to protect the air cleaner, starter

assembly and fuel tank from damage. The bumper is easy to install using

existing engine mounting hardware.

FRAME WEIGHTS

Solid steel weights attach to the sides of the frame to provide added traction to

the wheels. Installation hardware is included.

CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION

Owner Registration Card

Please fill out and mail the enclosed owner

registration card. The purpose of this card is

to register each unit at the factory in order to

keep the owner informed with informational

bulletins and safety literature.

Warranty Service

The warranty statement is included in the unit’s literature

package.

Model/Serial Numbers

A Model/Serial Numbers decal is located on top of the trans-

mission (see figure below). For ready reference, record these

numbers in the spaces below.

Date of purchase:

Model/Serial Numbers:

Customer Service and Technical Service

If you have questions or problems with the

unit, contact your local dealer or call or write

to the factory. (When calling or writing the

factory, provide the model/serial number of

the unit.)

Replacement Parts

Factory specified replacement parts are

available from your authorized dealer or

directly from the factory. For parts

ordering information, refer to the parts

catalog.

Engine Service and Repair

For engine service or repair, contact your

nearest authorized engine dealer (look in

the Yellow Pages under

“Engines–Gasoline”). The engine is

warranted by the engine manufacturer.

Any unauthorized work performed on the

engine during the warranty period may

void this warranty. For complete details

on the engine warranty, refer to the engine owner manual.

Authorized Dealer Information

If you purchased your unit from an authorized dealer, record

the dealer’s address and phone number below for ready

reference:

Dealer Name:

Address:

Phone:

Look here for

Model/Serial

Numbers

For customer assistance, contact your nearest authorized dealer or:

GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED •1 Garden Way • Troy, New York 12180

Customer Service: 1-800-437-8686 • Technical Service: 1-800-520-5520 • Parts Service: 1-800-648-6776

• FAX: (518) 391-7332 • WEBSITE: www.troybilt.com

Outside the United States and Canada:

Customer Service: (518) 391-7007 • Technical Service: (518) 391-7008 • Parts Service: (518) 391-7006 • FAX (518) 391-7332

Troy Bilt Bronco 12180 Users Manual

121805hp 9a001ca1-f60f-4d86-b944-23a6c2ae9502 Troy-Bilt Tiller 12180 User Guide |

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