Troy-Bilt PRO LINE Bronco 645A Owner's manual

Category
Mini tillers
Type
Owner's manual
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Operator's Manual
®
Rear-tine Tiller Models
643C m Tuffy¢ / Bronco CRT
643B, 645A -- Super BroncoTM
Mode1645A Shown
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark attester meeting applicable local or state laws (if
any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required
by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark
arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
Troy-Bilt LLC,P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019
PRINTEDIN U.S.A. FORMNO. 769-00585E.
11/11/05
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content Page Content Page
Customer Support 2 Maintenance 17
Safety 3 Off-season Storage 21
Assembly 6 Troubleshooting 22
Features and Controls 10 Parts List 24
Operation 12 Warranty Back Cover
FINDINGMODELNUMBER
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new tiller. Itwill help you assemble, prepare and maintain the unit for
best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the equipment and
copy the information from it in the space provided below. A sample model plate is also given below. You can
locate the model plate by looking at the rear of the tine shield. This information will be necessary to use the
manufacturer's web site and/or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized service dealer.
P. O. BOX 361131
www.troybilt.com CLEVELAND,OH44136
330-558-7220
866-840-6483_
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
CUSTOMERSUPPORT
PleasedoNOTreturntheunit totheretailer without firstcontactingCustomerSupport.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or maintenance of
this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
Visit troy-bilt.com for many useful suggestions. Click on Customer Support button and you
will get the four options reproduced here. Click on the appropriate button and help is
immediately available.
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If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1(866) 840-6483.
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regard to
performance, power-rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine
manufacturer's Owner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your unit, for more
information.
SECTION1: SAFETY
This machine meets voluntary safety stan-
dard B71.8-1996, which is sponsoredbythe
Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Inc.,
and is published bythe American National
Standards Institute.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this productcontains
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects or other reproduc-
tive harm.
SafetyAlertSymbol
,_ This is a safety alert symbol. It is used
in this manual and on the unit to alert
you to potential hazards. When you see
this symbol, read and obey the
message that follows it. Failure to obey
safety messages could result in
personal injury or property damage.
ForwardClutchBail
ReverseClutchControl
(Mode/s643B&645A)
DepthRegulator
TineHoodFlap
Counter-Rotating-Tines
(CRT)
Drive Pin
Figure 1-1: Tiller featuresandcontre/s. See separateEngineOwner'sManua/ to
identifyenginecontre/s.
Training
1. Carefully readthis Own-
er's Manual,the separate
Engine Owner'sManual,
and anyother literature you may receive.
Bethoroughly familiar with the controls
andthe proper useofthe tiller and its en-
gine. Knowhowto stop the unit anddisen-
gagethe controls quickly.
2. Neverallowchildrento operatethetiller.
Neverallow adults to operatethe tiller
without proper instruction.
3. Keepthe area of operationclear of all
persons, particularly children and pets.
4. Keepin mindthat theoperatoror useris
responsible for accidents or hazardsoc-
curring to otherpeople,their property,and
themselves.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly inspect the areawherethe
tiller is to be usedand removeall foreign
objects.
2. Be sure all tiller controls are released
and bothwheelsare in theWheelDrive po-
sition beforestarting the engine.
3. Donot operatethetiller without wearing
adequateoutergarments. Avoid loosegar-
ments or jewelry that could get caught in
moving parts.
4. Donot operatethe tiller when barefoot
or wearingsandals,sneakers,or light foot-
wear.Wearprotective footwear thatwill
improve footing onslippery surfaces.
5. Donottill nearundergroundelectricca-
bles, telephonelines, pipes or hoses.If in
doubt, contactyour telephoneor utility
company.
6. Warning: Handlefuel with care; it is
highly flammableand its vapors areexplo-
sive.Takethe following precautions:
a. Storefuel in containers specifically
designedfor this purpose.
b. Thegascapshallneverberemovedor
fueladdedwhiletheengineisrunning.
Allowthe engineto coolforseveral
minutesbeforeaddingfuel.
c. Keepmatches,cigarettes, cigars,
pipes, openflamesandsparks away
from thefueltank andfuelcontainer.
d. Fillfuel tank outdoors with extreme
care.Neverfill fueltank indoors. Use
a funnelor spout to preventspillage.
e. Replaceall fueltank and container
caps securely.
f. Iffuel isspilled, do not attemptto
start the engine,but move the ma-
chineawayfrom the areaof spillage
and avoidcreating any source of ig-
nition until fuel vapors havedissi-
pated.
7. Nevermakeadjustmentswhenengineis
running (unless recommendedby manu-
facturer).
Operation
1. Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts.
2. Exerciseextremecaution when on or
crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
Stay alertfor hidden hazardsor traffic.
3. After striking a foreign object, stop the
engine, removethe wirefrom the spark
plug wire and prevent it from touching the
spark plug. Thoroughly inspectthe ma-
chine for any damageand repairthe dam-
agebefore restarting and operatingthe
machine.
4.Exercisecautionto avoidslipping orfall-
ing.
5.Iftheunitshouldstarttovibrateabnor-
mally,stoptheengine,disconnectthe
sparkplugwireandpreventitfromtouch-
ingthesparkplug,andcheckimmediately
forthecause.Vibrationisgenerallya
warningoftrouble.
6.Stoptheengine,disconnectthespark
plugwireandpreventitfromtouchingthe
sparkplug,wheneveryouleavetheoperat-
ingposition,beforeuncloggingthetines,
orwhenmakinganyrepairs,adjustments
orinspections.
7.Takeallpossibleprecautionswhenleav-
ingthemachineunattended.Stoptheen-
gine.Disconnectthesparkplugwireand
moveitawayfromthesparkplug.Besure
thatbothwheelsareintheWheelDrivepo-
sition.
8.Beforecleaning,repairing,orinspect-
ing,stoptheengineandmakecertainall
movingpartshavestopped.Disconnect
thesparkplugwireandpreventitfrom
touchingthesparkplugtopreventacci-
dentalstarting.
9.Theflaponthetinehoodmustbedown
whenoperatingthetiller.
10.Neverusethetillerunlessproper
guards,plates,orothersafetyprotective
devicesareinplace.
11.Donotruntheengineinanenclosed
area.Engineexhaustcontainscarbon
monoxidegas,adeadlypoisonthatis
odorless,colorless,andtasteless.
12.Keepchildrenandpetsaway.
13. Neveroperatethetiller underengine
powerif thewheels arein theFreewheel
position.Inthe Freewheelposition, the
wheelswill not hold the tiller back andthe
revolvingtines could propel thetiller rapid-
ly,possibly causingloss ofcontrol. Always
engagethe wheels with the wheel drive
pins in theWheel Drive position before
starting the engine or engaging the
tines_vheelswith the Forward Clutch Bail
(all models) or the ReverseClutchcontrol
(Models 643B & 645A only).
14. Beaware thatthe tiller may unex-
pectedlybounceupwardor jumpforward
if thetines shouldstrike extremelyhard
packedsoil, frozen ground,or buriedob-
stacleslike largestones,roots,or
stumps.
If indoubtaboutthe tilling conditions,al-
ways usethefollowing operating precau-
tionstoassistyouin maintainingcontrol
of thetiller:
a. Walk behindandto one side of the
tiller, usingone handon thehandle
barsRelax yourarm, but usea
securehandgrip.
b. Useshallowerdepthregulator
settings,working graduallydeeper
with each pass.
c. Useslowerenginespeeds.
d. Clearthetilling area of all large
stones,rootsor other debris.
e. Avoidusingdownwardpressureon
thehandlebars.If needbe, use
slight upwardpressuretokeepthe
tinesfrom diggingtoodeeply.
f. Beforecontacting hardpackedsoil
at the endof a row,reduceengine
speedand lift thehandlebarsto
raise thetines out of the soil.
g. In anemergency, stopthetinesand
wheels byreleasingwhichever
clutch controlis engaged.Do not
attemptto restrainthetiller.
15. Donot overloadthe tiller's capacityby
attempting to till too deeplyat too fast a
rate.
16. Neveroperatethetiller at high trans-
port speeds on hard or slippery surfaces.
Look behind and usecarewhen backing
up.
17. Donot operatethetiller on aslopethat
is too steep for safety.When on slopes,
slow down and makesure you havegood
footing. Neverpermit thetiller to freewheel
down slopes.
18. Neverallow bystanders nearthe unit.
19. Onlyuseattachmentsand accessories
that are approved bythe manufacturer of
the tiller.
20. Usetiller attachmentsand accessories
when recommended.
21. Neveroperatethe tiller without good
visibility orlight.
22. Neveroperatethe tiller ifyou aretired;
or underthe influence ofalcohol, drugs or
medication.
23. Operatorsshallnottamper with theen-
gine-governor settings onthe machine;
the governor controls the maximum safe
operatingspeedto protectthe engineand
all moving parts from damagecaused by
overspeed.Authorized serviceshall be
sought if a problem exists.
24. Do nottouch engine parts which may
behot from operation.Letparts cool down
sufficiently.
25. Pleaseremember:Youcanalwaysstop
the tines and wheels by releasingthe For-
ward Clutch Bailor on Models643B &
645Athe ReverseClutchcontrol, (which-
evercontrol isengaged),or bymoving the
ignition switch and/orthrottle control lever
on the engineto "OFF"or "STOP".
26. Toload or unloadthe tiller, seethe in-
structions in Section4 of this Manual.
27. Useextremecaution when reversing
or pulling the machinetowards you.
28. Startthe enginecarefully accordingto
instructions and with feetwell away from
the tines.
29. Neverpick up or carry a machinewhile
the engineis running.
MaintenanceandStorage
1. Keepthe tiller, attachmentsand acces-
sories in safeworking condition.
2. Checkall nuts, bolts, and screwsfor
proper tightness to besurethe equipment
is in safeworking condition.
3. Neverstore thetiller with fuel in thefuel
tank insideabuilding whereignition sourc-
esare presentsuchashot waterandspace
heaters,furnaces, clothes dryers, stoves,
electric motors, etc.). Allow the engine to
cool beforestoring the unit in anyenclo-
sure.
4. Toreducethe chancesof a fire hazard,
keeptheenginefreeofgrass, leaves,or ex-
cessivegrease.
5. Storegasolinein acool, well-ventilated
area,safelyawayfrom anyspark- or
flame-producing equipment. Store gaso-
line in an approvedcontainer,safelyaway
from the reachof children.
6. Referto the Maintenancesections of
this Manualand the separateEngineOwn-
er'sManualfor instructions ifthe unitis to
bestored for an extendedperiod.
7. Neverperform maintenancewhilethe
engineis running orthe sparkplug wire is
connected,exceptwhen specifically in-
structed to do so.
8. Ifthe fueltank hasto be drained,dothis
outdoors.
Decals
Foryour safety andthe safety of others, vari-
ous safety and operationaldecalsare located
on your unit (seeFigure 1-2).
Keepthe decalscleanand legible atall times.
Contactyour localservicedealeror thefactory
for replacementsif anydecalsaredamagedor
missing.
Referto the Parts List pagesin this Manualfor
decallocations, descriptions and part num-
bers.
ForwardClutch Bail
StartingStabilization
Message(on engine)
ReverseClutch Control
OperatingInstruction
_ (Models 643B& 645A
WarningMessages
Hot Surfaces Warning
Figure1-2: Locationofsafety and operatingdeca/s.
OperatingSymbols
Varioussymbols(shownhere,_dthworddescrip'dons)
maybeusedonte'dllerandengine.
NOTE:YourunihT_ynothaveallof_esymbols.
FAST SLOW STOP
I"1 I*1 R
CHOKE CHOKE REVERSE
ON OFF ROTATINGTINES
TILLERDIRECTION
<--o-->
LEVERDIRECTION
BAIL
ENGAGED
BAIL
DISENGAGED
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:
* READTHEOWNER'SMANUAL.
* KNOWLOCATIONSAND FUNCTIONSOFALLCONTROLS.
* KEEPALLSAFETYDEVICESANDSHIELDSIN PLACEANDWORKING.
. NEVERALLOWCHILDRENORUNINSTRUCTEDADULTSTO OPERATETILLER.
° SHUTOFFENGINEAND DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIREBEFOREMANUALLYUN-
CLOGGINGTINESORMAKINGREPAIRS.
° KEEPBYSTANDERSAWAYFROMMACHINE.
° KEEPAWAYFROMROTATINGPARTS.
° USEEXTREMECAUTIONWHEN REVERSINGOR PULLINGTHE MACHINETOWARDS
YOU.
SECTION2: ASSEMBLY
WARNING: Toprevent
personalinjury or property
damage,do notstartthe engine
until all assemblysteps are
completeandyou haveread
and understandthesafety and
operating instructions in this
manual.
INTRODUCTION
Carefullyfollow these assemblysteps to
correctly prepareyour tiller for use. It is
recommendedthatyou readthis Sectionin
its entirety beforebeginning assembly.
NOTE: Various tiller models are
presented in this Manual. Use only the
information appropriate for your tiller
model. Engine styles vary by model, Your
engine may appear differently than those
illustrated in this manual.
INSPECTUNIT
Inspect the unitand carton for damageim-
mediatelyafter delivery.Contactthe carrier
(trucking company) if you find or suspect
damage.Inform them of the damageand
request instructions for filing a claim. To
protect your rights, put your claim in writ-
ing and maila copyto the carrierwithin 15
days after the unit has beendelivered.
ContactTroy-Bilt LLCif you needassis-
tance in this matter.
TOOLS/ MATERIALSNEEDED
(2) 1/2" open-end wrench*
(2) 9/16" open-endwrench*
(1) 3/8" open-endwrench*
(1) Largeadjustable wrench
(Models 643B & 645A only)
(1) Scissors (totrim plasticties)
(1) Ruler (for belttension check)
(1) Block of wood (to support tiller when
removing wheels)
(1) Tirepressure gauge (for models with
pneumatictires)
(1) Cleanoil funnel
(1) Motor oil. Refertothe EngineOwner's
Manualfor oil specificationsand
quantityrequired.
* Adjustable wrenchesmay beused.
ASSEMBLYSTEPS
STEP 1: UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE:While unpacking,do not severely
bend anycontrol cables.
1.Thetiller weighs approximately133 Ibs.
Do notattempt to remove it from the ship-
ping platform until instructed to do so in
these Assembly steps.
2. Removeany packagingmaterial from
the carton. Removeany staplesfrom the
bottom of the carton and removethe car-
ton from the shipping platform.
3. Removeall unassembledparts andthe
separatehardwarebag from the carton.
Checkthat you havethe items listed in the
LooseParts List (contactyour localdealer
or the factory itemsare missing or dam-
aged).
NOTE: Use the screw length template
(Fig,2-1) to identify screws,
LoosePartsList
Qty. Description
1 HandlebarSupport (seeA, Fig. 2-2)
1 HandlebarAssembly(seeK,Fig.2-2)
Hardwarebag contents:
4 Hexhd. screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"
2 Hexhd. screw, 3/8-16 x 3/4"
2 FlatWasher,3/8"
4 Split lock washer,5/16"
4 Hex nut, 5/16"-18
2 HexIocknut,3_8"-16
*Models 643B & 645Aonly
IMPORTANT:Motor oil must beaddedto
the enginecrankcasebeforetheengine is
started. Followthe instructions inthis
Sectionand in the separateEngine
Owner's Manual.
NOTE: LEFTand RIGHTsides of thetiller
are as viewedfrom theoperator's position
behind thehandlebars.
STEP 2: ATTACHHANDLEBAR
1. Looselyattachthe legsof thehandlebar
support (A, Fig. 2-2) to the inner sidesof
the tiller frame usingtwo 3/8"-16x3/4" hex
hd.screws (B),3/8" flatwashers, and3/8"-
16 hexIocknuts.
_iiii
Figure2-1: Toidentifylengthofscrews,place
screwontemplateasshownandmeasuredis-
tancebetweenbottomofscrewheadandtipof
screw.
2. Usingtwo 5/16"-18x 1-1/2"screws (C),
5/16"split lock washers (D) and5/16"-18
hexnuts (G), loosely attachthe handlebar
support (A) usingthe upperholes.Tighten
thetwo screws securely.
3. Therearethree heightadjustment holes
in the two handlebar support brackets(E
and F,Fig. 2-2). Usea setting that will po-
sition the handlebarsat approximately
waist levelwhenthetines are3"-4"intothe
soil. Looselyattachthesupport bracketsto
theoutsideofthe handlebarassembly (I)
usingtwo 5/16"-18x 1-1/2" screws (G),5/
16"split lockwashers(D)and5/16"-18 hex
nuts (G). NOTE:If asupport bracketwill
not move, loosenattachingscrew (H) and
nut.
IMPORTANT:The support bracketsmust
beassembledto theoutside ofthe
handlebarassembly.
4. Tightenall handlebarmounting hard-
waresecurely.
STEP 3: MOVE TILLER OFF CRATE
Toroll the tiller off the shipping platform,
put the wheels in freewheel,asfollows:
1. Placeasturdy block underthetransmis-
sion to raiseone wheelabout 1"off the
ground.
2. Removethe Klik Pin (J, Fig.2-3) from
the wheelhub (K) and wheelshaft (L).
3. Slidethe wheelfully inwardonthewheel
shaft (N,Fig. 2-3). Reinstallthe Klikpin (J)
The supportbracketsmust
be assembledto theoutside
of the handlebarassembly.
Fig.2-3: Wheelin FREEWHEELposition
(wheeldrivepin throughwheelshaftonly).
STEP 4: INSTALL FORWARD
CLUTCH CABLE
1. Carefullyunwrapthe forward clutch ca-
ble(cablewithout an attachedknob) from
its shipping position andslide thethin ca-
blewire (M, Fig.2-4) intothe slot in the ca-
blebracket. Pushthe cableconnector (N,
Fig.2-4) upthrough the holein thebracket
untilthe groove in the connector snaps
into place.
2. Threadthe#10-24 hexnut (Z, Fig. 2-5)
halfway ontothe screw (V) which runs
through the spring (W, Fig. 2-5).
3. Threadthe screw (V) into the cablead-
juster (X).
Fig. 2.2: Attachhandlebar.
through the wheelshaft (L) only (not
through thewheelhub). Thewheelshould
now spin freely (freewheel)on the wheel
shaft. Repeatwith the other wheel.
4. Usethe handlebarto roll the tiller to a
flat area.
IMPORTANT:Beforestartingthe engine,
the wheels must beplacedin theWHEEL
DRIVEposition (pinsthrough wheelhubs
andwheelshaft). This procedureis
described in WheelDrivePinson page 10.
Fig. 2-4:/nstal/ing forward clutchcablebracketand cable.
4. Checkfor correcttension ontheforward
drive belt bytaking two measurementsof
the cablespring, as follows:
a.With the Forward Clutch Bail (Y,Fig. 2-
6) in an open (released)position, measure
the length ofthecablespring (W) from the
outermost coil to the outermost coil.
b. Squeezethe ForwardClutch Bailagainst
the handlebar(seeFig. 2-7) and re-mea-
surethe spring length. Thebelt tension is
correct if this second measurementis be-
tween 1/16"to 3/16" longerthanthe first
measurement.If so, turn the hexnut (Z,
Fig. 2-7) tightly against the cableadjuster
(X) while preventing thecable adjuster
from turning.
c. If the spring length is incorrect, you
must adjustthe cabletension asdescribed
in Checkingand Adjusting Forward Drive
Belt Tensionin Section 5. Incorrect cable
tension can result inbelt slippage (cable
tension too loose), or unintentional tine
movement whenthe clutch bail is in Neu-
tral (cabletensiontoo tight).
Wm
: v
Fig.2-5: Cable
springand
adjuster.
W
Fig. 2-6: Attachforward
clutchcablespring to
forwardclutch bail
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
Fig. 2-7: Tocheckforwardbelttension,take twomeasurementsofthelengthofthe coilsin the
spring-- first withthebah open, then withthe bah held against thehandlebar.
STEP 5: INSTALL REVERSECLUTCH
CABLE(MODELS643BAND645A ONLY)
1. Unwrapthe reverseclutch cable (CC,
Fig.2-8 and Fig.2-9) from its shipping po-
sition and route it up to the handlebar.Be
surethat the cableis routedbeneaththe
Forward Clutch Bail.
2. Insertthecable(CC,Fig.2-8)through the
slot inthecablebracketandpositiontheflat
sideof thethreadedassemblynextto the
flat sideof the hole.Slidethe hexnut (DD)
up thecableandtighten it securely.
3. Fastenthe reverseclutch cableto the
left side handlebarwith acabletie (EE,Fig.
2-9).
4. Testthefunction ofthe reverseclutch by
pulling out and releasingthe cableknob.
Theknob should return to its neutral posi-
tion (resting against bracket).If it doesn't,
contact your local dealeror Troy-Bilt LLC
for technical assistance.
Flat Side
Fig. 2-8: Install reversecablebracketand
reverseclutchcable.
Fig. 2-9: Routereverseclutchcable (CC)as
shown.Attachwithcable tie (EE).
5! =-P6: CHECKTRAHSMiSSiOH
OILLEVEL
Thetransmission was filledwith gearoil at
thefactory. However,you shouldcheckthe
gear oil levelatthis time to makecertain it
is correct.
IMPORTANT:Donot operatethe tiller ifthe
gear oil level islow. Doingso will resultin
severedamageto the transmission com-
ponents.
1. With the tiller on levelground, pull the
Depth RegulatorLever(FF,Fig. 2-10) back
andthen all theway up until the lowest
notch in the lever isengaged.
2. Removethe oil fill plug (GG,Fig. 2-11)
from the transmission housing cover and
locatethe maindrive shaft situated inside
the housing.
3. Thegear oil leveliscorrect ifthegear oil
isapproximately halfwayupthe sideofthe
main driveshaft.
4. Ifthe oil levelislow, add gear oil by re-
ferring to A, ToCheckthe Transmission
GearOil Levelin Section5.
I El."/: AUU IVlUI UH UIL
Thetiller isshipped withoutoil inthe en-
gine.
IMPORTANT:Donot start the engine with-
out first adding motor oil. Severeengine
damagewill result ifthe engineis run with-
out oil.
1. Referto the separateEngineOwner's
Manualfor engine oil specifications and
capacities.
2. With thetiller on levelground, movethe
Depth RegulatorLever(FF,Fig.2-10) up or
down until the engine is level.
3. Add motor oil as describedin the En-
gine Owner's Manual.
4. Movethe DepthRegulator Leverall the
way down untilthe highest notch is en-
gaged.This placesthe tines inthe"travel"
position, which allows the tiller to be
moved without thetines touching the
ground.
_ I L:I."8: L;Ht:L;KHAHUWAHt:
Checkall nuts and screws for tightness.
STEP 9: CHECKAIR PRESSURE IN
TIRES (units with pneumatic tires)
Checkthe air pressurewith atire gauge.
Deflateor inflatethe tires equallyto be-
tween 15 PSiand 20 PSi (pounds per
squareinch). Besurethat bothtires arein-
flated equally or the unit will pull to one
side.
Fig. 2-10: AdjustDepthRegu/atorLever.
Fig. 2-11: Removegear oil fill plug.
IMPORTANT: This completesthe assembly steps. Be-
fore operatingyour tiller, makesureyou readthefollow-
ing sections in this Manual,as well asthe
separateEngineOwner'sManual:
Section 1: Safety
Section 3: Featuresand Controls
Section 4: Operation
SECTION3: FEATURESANDCONTROLS
_ ARNING: Before
operatingyour machine,
carefully readand understand
all safety,controls and
operating instructions in this
Manual,the separateEngine
Owner's Manual,andon the
decalson the machine.
Failureto follow these
instructions can result in
serious personalinjury.
INTRODUCTION
This Section describesthe location and
function ofthecontrols onyourtiller. Refer
to the following Section, Operationfor de-
tailed operatinginstructions.
Practice usingthese controls, with the en-
gine shut off, untilyou understandthe op-
eration ofthe controls and feelconfident
with eachof them.
ForwardClutch
ReverseClutchControl
(Models643B&645A)
Regulator
HeightAdjustment
Wheel Drive Pin
(oneachwheel)
ENGINE CONTROLS
Referto the enginemanufacturer'sEngine
Owner'sManual(included inthe tiller liter-
aturepackage)to identify the controls on
your engine.
IMPORTANT:Thecontrol for stopping the
engine is located onthe engine.
WHEEL DRIVE PINS
Eachwheelis equippedwith a wheeldrive
Klik pin (A, Figures3-2 and 3-3) that se-
curesthe wheelto thewheelshaft (B).The
wheelscan be positioned in either a
WHEELDRIVEor a FREEWHEELmode.
_ WARNING: Neverallow
either ofthewheelsto beinthe
FREEWHEELposition whenthe
engineis running. Alwaysput
both wheelsin the WHEEL
DRIVEposition beforestarting
the engine.
Failureto comply could cause
loss of tiller control, property
damage,or personalinjury.
Beforestartingthe engine,put bothwheels
in the WHEELDRIVEposition byinserting
the wheeldriveKlikpinsthrough thewheel
hubsandthewheelshaft. Doingso "locks"
the wheels to the wheelshaft, causing the
wheelsto turn when eitherthe
Figure3-1: Tiller features and controls.See separateEngine Owner's Manual to identify
enginecontrols.
Forward ClutchBail (all models) or the Re-
verse ClutchControl (Models 643B &
645A) is engaged.
Usethe FREEWHEELmode only whenthe
engineis not running. InFREEWHEEL,the
wheeldrive pinsare placedonly through
the holes in thewheelshaft (notthe wheel
hubs), thus allowing the wheels to turn
freely whenyou manually movethe tiller.
Toplacethewheels in WHEELDRIVEor
FREEWHEEL:
1. Stopengine,disconnectsparkplug wire
from sparkplug andallowengineto cool.
_ WARNING: Donotplace
tiller on its sidewhenchanging
wheeldrivepositions. Doingso
could result in gasolineleaking
from the fuel tank.
Failureto follow this instruction
could result in personalinjury
or property damage.
2. Raiseone wheelabout one inch off the
ground and placeasturdy support under
the transmission.
3. RemoveKlick Pin (A, Figures3-2 and 3-
3) from wheel driveshaft (B).
4. FORWHEELDRIVEMODE(Figure3-2):
Slide wheeloutward andalign holes in
"B
Figure3-2: WHEELDRIVEposition.
wheelhub (D, Figure3-2) and wheel
shaft (B). Insert Klikpin (A)through wheel
hub (C)and wheelshaft (B). Repeatwith
the other wheelandthen removethe sup-
port from beneaththe transmission.
5. FORFREEWHEELMODE(Figure3-3):
Slide the wheelinward and insert the Klik
pin (A,Figure3-3) onlythrough thehole in
the wheelshaft (B). Repeatfor the other
wheeland then removethe support from
beneaththe transmission.
lO
Figure3-3: FREEWHEELposition.
WARNING: Beforestarting
engine,besurethat both
wheelsare in WHEELDRIVE
position. SeeWheelsDrivePins
for instructions.
Engagingthe Forward Clutch
Bail or ReverseClutchControl
(if equipped) whenthewheels
arenot in WHEELDRIVEcould
allowthe tinesto rapidly propel
the tiller forward or backward.
Failureto comply could cause
loss of tiller control, property
damage,or personalinjury.
FORWARDCLUTCHBAIL
TheForward ClutchBail(D, Figure3-4)
controls the engagementof forward drive
to the wheelsand tines.
Tooperatethe ForwardClutchBail:
1. Put wheelsin WHEELDRIVEposition
(see"WARNING"statementabove).
2. Lift and holdthe clutch bail (D,Figure3-
4) againstthe handlebarto startthewheels
andtines rotatingin a forward direction.
3. Releasethe clutch bail to disengage
(stop) thewheels andtines (theenginewill
continue to run).
REVERSECLUTCHCONTROL
(Models 643B & 645A only)
TheReverseClutchControl (E,Figure3-4)
controls the engagementof reversedrive
to the wheelsandtines.The reversingfea-
ture is usedfor maneuvering the tiller
only-- never engage the tines in the
ground while operatingin reverse.
WARNING: Useextreme
caution whenreversing or
pulling the machinetowards
you. Look behindto avoid
obstacles.
Neverattemptto till in reverse.
Failureto follow this warning
could result in personalinjury
or property damage.
Tooperatethe ReverseClutchControl:
1. Putwheels in WHEELDRIVEposition
(see"WARNING"statementat the left).
2. Stopall tiller motion by releasingthe
Forward Clutch Bail.
3. Lift the handlebar untilthe tines clear
the ground, look behind you to avoid any
obstacles,and then pullthe control knob
(E, Figure3-4) out.Thewheels andtines
will rotate in a reversedirection.
4. Releasethe control knobto disengage
(stop) thewheels andtines (theenginewill
continue to run).
Figure3-4:Allmodelshavea ForwardClutch
Bail(E).OnlyModel634,4havea Reverse
ClutchCentre/(F).
DEPTHREGULATORLEVER
Thislever(F,Figure3-5) controls thetilling
depth of thetines. Pull the leverback and
slide it up or downto engagethe notched
height settings.
The"travelposition" (highestnotch) raises
the tines approximately1-1/2"off the
ground, allowingthe tiller to bemoved
without the tines contactingthe ground.
This setting should also be usedwhen
starting the engine.
Moving the lever upwardwill increasethe
tilling depth.Thelowest notch allows a till-
ing depthof approximately6", depending
on soil conditions. Forbest results,always
begintilling atavery shallow depthsetting
and gradually increasethe tilling depth.
WARNING: Donotattempt
to till too deeplytoo quickly.
Graduallywork downto deeper
tilling depths.
Placethe DepthRegulator
Leverin the "travel" position
beforestarting theengine.This
position preventsthetines from
touching the ground untilyou
are readyto begintilling.
Failureto follow this warning
could result in personalinjury
or property damage.
TravelPosition
Figure3-5: DepthRegulatorLever (G).
HANDLEBARHEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Thehandlebarheight isadjustableto three
different settings (Figure3-6). In general,
adjust the handlebarssothey areat waist
levelwhenthe tines are3"-4"in the soil.
Toadjust the handlebars:
1. Stopengine,disconnectspark plugwire
from spark plug and allow engineto cool.
2. Removehardware,reposition handle-
bars,and reinstall hardwaresecurely.
High
Medium
Figure3-6: Handlebarheightadjustment.
11
SECTION4: OPERATION
_ ARNING: Before
operatingyour machine,
carefully readand understand
all safety (Section 1),controls
(Section 3) and operating
instructions (Section4) inthis
Manual,the separateEngine
Owner's Manual,andon the
decalson the machine.
Failureto follow these
instructions can result in
serious personalinjury.
INTRODUCTION
Readthis OperationSectionandthe sepa-
rate EngineOwner'sManualbeforeyou
start the engine.Then,take thetime to fa-
miliarize yourself with the basic operation
of thetiller before usingit in the garden.
Findan open,levelareaand practice using
the tiller controls without thetines engag-
ing the soil (put tines in "travel" setting).
Onlyafter you've becomecompletely fa-
miliar with thetiller shouldyou beginusing
it in the garden.
BREAK-INOPERATION
Perform the following maintenanceafter
the first two (2) hours of new operation
(see MaintenanceSection in this manual
and in the Engine Owner'sManual).
1. Changeengine oil.
2. Checkfor looseor missinghardwareon
unit. Tighten or replaceas needed.
3. Checktension on forward drive belt.
4. Checktransmission gear oil level.
STARTINGANDSTOPPING
Pre-StartChecklist
With the spark plug wire disconnected
from the sparkplug, perform the following
checksand services beforeeachuse:
1. Readthe Safetyand Controls Sections
in this manual. Readthe separateEngine
Owner's Manualprovidedwith the unit.
2. Putthe wheels inthe WHEELDRIVEpo-
sition (wheel pins must be through holes
in wheelhubs and wheelshaft).
3. Checkunit for loose or missing hard-
ware. Serviceas required.
4. Checkengineoil level.SeeEngineOwn-
er's Manual.
ReverseClutchControl
(Mode/s643B&
ClutchBail
DepthRegulator
DrivePin
Fig. 4-1
5. Checkthat all safetyguards andcovers
are in place.
6. Checkair cleanerand enginecooling
system. SeeEngineOwner's Manual.
_ WARNING: GASOLINEIS
HIGHLYFLAMMABLEAND ITS
VAPORSAREEXPLOSIVE.
Followgasolinesafety rules in
this Manual(seeSection 1)and
in theseparateEngineOwner's
Manual.
Failureto follow gasolinesafety
instructions can result in
serious personalinjury and
property damage.
7. Fillthefueltank with gasolineaccording
to the directions inthe separate Engine
Owner's Manual.Followall instructions
and safety rules carefully.
8. Attachspark plug wire to spark plug.
Startingthe Engine
Thefollowing steps describe how to start
and stop the engine.
_ WARNING: Donotattempt
to engagethetines or wheels
until you havereadall ofthe
operatinginstructions in this
Section.Also, reviewthe safety
rules in Section 1:Safety,and
the tiller and enginecontrols
information in Section3:
Featuresand Controls.
1. Completethe Pre-StartChecklistonthis
page.
2. Putthe wheels inthe WHEELDRIVEpo-
sition (seeWheelDrivePinsin Section3 of
this manual).
,_ WARNING: Tohelp
preventserious personalinjury
or damageto equipment:
Before starting engine, put both
wheels in the WHEELDRIVEposition.
Never havewheels in FREEWHEELpo-
sition when engine is running. When
thewheels arein FREEWHEEL,theydo
not hold back the tiller and the tines
couldpropelthetiller rapidly
forwardor backward.
Before starting engine, put Forward
Clutch Bail (all models) and Reverse
Clutch Control (Models 643B & 645A
only)in neutral (disengaged)positions
by releasinglevers.
Never run engine indoors or in en-
closed,poorlyventilatedareas. Engine
exhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an
odorlessanddeadlygas.
Avoidenginemufflerandnearbyareas.
Temperaturesin these areas may ex-
ceed 150° F.
3. Movethe Depth RegulatorLeverall the
way down to the "travel" position, sothat
thetines clearthe ground.
4. Releaseall controls onthe tiller.
5. Onengine's with a fuel shut-off valve,
turn valve to openposition, as instructed
in the separateEngine Owner'sManual.
6. Put ignition switch and/or throttle con-
trol leverlocatedon enginein the "ON",
"RUN", "FAST"or "START"position, asin-
structed in the EngineOwner's Manual.
7. Chokeor prime engine,as instructed in
EngineOwner's Manual.
8. Put one hand on fueltank to stabilize
unitwhenpulling starter ropehandle.Then
userecoilstarter to start engine,as in-
structed in the EngineOwner's Manual.
Whenenginestarts, graduallymove choke
lever (if so equipped) to "NO CHOKE",
"CHOKEOFF"or "RUN" position.
9. Usethe "FAST"throttle speedsetting
whentilling.
12
Stopping the Engineand Tiller
1. Tostop thewheelsandtines, releasethe
Forward ClutchBail (all models) orthe Re-
verse ClutchControl (Models 643B &
645A) -- whichevercontrol is in use.
2. Tostop the engine,put the ignition
switch and/or thethrottle control leverin
the "OFF"or "STOP"position.
OPERATINGTHETILLER
Thefollowing operatinginstructions pro-
videguidelinesto usingyour tiller effec-
tively and safely. Besure to read Tilling
Tips & Techniquesin this Sectionbefore
actually putting the tines into the soil.
This is a "Counter-Rotating-Tine" (CRT)
tiller. It operatesdifferently from "Stan-
dard-Rotating-Tine" (SRT)tillers. Asthe
wheels pull forward, thetines rotate back-
ward, creating an "uppercut" action which
digs deeply, uprooting soil and weeds.
1. Followthe Pre-Start Checklistatthe be-
ginning of this Section. Besurethat the
wheelsare in the WHEELDRIVEposition.
2. Movethe DepthRegulator Leverall the
way down, so that thetines clearthe
ground. Usethis position when practicing
with thetiller and when traveling between
tilling sites. Beforeactuallytilling, move
the leverto the desireddepth setting (see
Tilling Tips & Techniques).
Fig.4-2:Useonehandtoguidetiller when
movingforward.
3. Start engineand allow it to warm up.
Thenput throttle in "FAST"setting.
4. Forforwardmotion ofthe wheels and
powerto the tines:
(a) Pull Forward Clutch Bail (Fig.4-1) up
against handlebar.Releasebail to stop for-
ward motion of wheels and tines.
(b) Whentilling, relaxand letthe wheels
pull the unit while thetines dig.Walk be-
hind anda little to onesideof the unit. Use
one hand,yet keepalight--but secure--
grip on the handlebar (while keepingyour
arm loose). SeeFig.4-2. Letthe unit move
at its own paceand donot pushdown on
the handlebarsto try andforcethe tines to
dig deeper-- this takesweight off the
wheelsand reducestraction.
,_ WARNING: Donotpush
down onthe handlebarsto try
to makethetiller till more
deeply.This preventsthe
wheelsfrom holding the tiller
backand canallowthe tines to
rapidly propelthetiller forward,
which could resultin loss of
control, property damage,or
personalinjury.
5. Forreverse motion ofthe wheelsand
tines (Models643B & 645A only):
(a) Lookbehindand exercisecaution when
operating in reverse.Do not till while in
reverse.
(b) Stopall forward motion. Lifthandlebar
with one handuntiltines areoffthe ground
andthen pull ReverseClutchControl knob
out (seeFig.4-3). Tostop reversing,letgo
of ReverseClutch Control knob.
(b) Swingthe handlebarto theleft so the
rightwheeltakesa "step" backward.Next
swing the handlebarto the rightso theleft
wheel"steps" backward.Repeatasneeded.
(c) If longer distances needto becovered
in reverse,shut off the engine,then place
thetwo wheels in FREEWHEEL.
7. ToTurnthe Tiller Around:
(a) Practiceturning the tiller in a level,
openarea.Beverycarefulto keepyour feet
and legsaway from the tines.
(b) Tobeginaturn, lift thehandlebarsuntil
thetinesareoutofthegroundandtheengine
andtinesarebalancedoverthewheels(Fig.
4-4).
(c)With tiller balanced,pushsideways on
handlebarto steer in direction of turn (Fig.
4-5). After turning, slowly lower tines into
soil to resumetilling.
Fig.4-3:Raisetinesoffgreundandlook
behindwhenmovinginreverse.
6. Tomovethe Model643Cin reversefor
short distances:
(a) Releaseforward ClutchBail.Thenlift
handlebaruntiltines areoff theground.
13
Fig. 4-4: Tobeginturn,lift handlebarsuntil
tinesare outofgroundand unit is balanced.
Fig. 4-5: With tinesoutofgreund,push han-
dlebarssidewaystoturntiller.
StoppingtheTillerandEngine
1. Tostop thewheelsandtines, releasethe
Forward ClutchBail (all models) orthe Re-
verse ClutchControl (Models 643B &
645A) -- whichevercontrol is in use.
2. Tostop the engine,put the ignition
switch and/orthe throttle control leverin
the "OFF"or "STOP"position.
TILLINGTIPS& TECHNIQUES
Tilling Depths
WAHNING: Before
tilling, contact your
telephoneor utilities
companyand inquire if
undergroundequipment or
lines are usedon your
property. Donottill near
buriedelectric cables,
telephonelines, pipesor
hoses.
This isa CRT(counter-rotatingtine)tiller. Asthewheelspullforward,the tinesrotateback-
ward. Thiscreatesan "uppercut"tine actionwhich digs deeply,uprootingsoil and weeds.
Don't overloadthe engine,but dig asdeeplyaspossibleon eachpass.Onlaterpasses,the
wheelsmaytendto spinin thesoftdirt. Helpthemalongbylifting upslightlyonthehandlebar
(onehand,palm up,works mosteasily).
Avoidthetemptationtopushdownon thehandlebarsinan attemptto force thetiller to dig
deeper.Doingsotakestheweightoff the poweredwheels,causingthemto losetraction.
Withoutthewheelsto holdthetillerback,thetineswill attemptto propelthetiller backward,
towardstheoperator.(Sometimes,slightdownwardpressureonthehandlebarswill helpget
througha particularlytoughsectionofsodor unbrokenground,butin mostcasesthiswon't
benecessary.)
Whencultivating(breakingup surfacesoilaroundplantsto destroyweeds,seeFig.4-9), ajust thetinesto dig only 1"to 2"deep.Using
shallowtilling depthshelpspreventinjury to plantswhoseroots often growclose to the surface.If needed,lift up on the handlebars
slightlytopreventthetinesfrom diggingtoo deeply.(Cultivatingona regularbasisnotonlyeliminatesweeds,it alsoloosensandaerates
thesoilfor bettermoistureabsorptionandfasterplantgrowth.)Wateringthegardenareaafewdayspriorto tillingwill maketillingeasier,
aswill lettingthe newlyworkedsoil setfor a dayor two beforemakinga final,deeptilling pass.
ChoosingCorrectWheel& TineSpeeds With experience,you will find the "just right" tilling depthandtilling speedcombination
that is bestfor yourgarden.
Settheenginethrottleleverata speedto givetheengineadequatepowerandyetallowit tooperateattheslowestpossiblespeed...atleast
until youhaveachievedthe maximumtilling depthyoudesire.Fasterenginespeedsmay bedesirablewhenmakingfinal passesthrough
theseedbedor whencultivating.Selectionofthecorrectenginespeed,in relationtothetilling depth,will ensurea sufficientpowerlevelto
do thejobwithout causingtheengineto labor.
Letthe Tiller DotheWork
Whiletilling, relaxandletthewheelspullthe
tiller along while the tines do the digging.
Walkon thesidethat is notyetfinished(to
avoidmakingfootprints in thefreshlytilled
soil) and lightly,but securelygrip the han-
dlebarwith just onehand.
AvoidMakingFootprints
Wheneverpossible, walk on the untilled
sideoftheunitto avoidmakingfootprints in
your freshly tilled or cultivated soil. Foot-
prints causesoil compactionthat canham-
per root penetrationand contributeto soil
erosion. They can also "plant" unwanted
weed seeds back into the freshly tilled
ground.
AvoidTillingSoggy,WetSoil
Tilling wet soil often resultsin large,hard
clumpsof soil that caninterferewith plant-
ing.If time permits,wait a dayor two after
heavyrainsto allow the soil to dry before
tilling. Testsoil bysqueezingit intoa ball.If
itcompressestooeasily,it is toowetto till.
Preparing Seedbeds
Whenpreparingaseedbed,go overthesamepathtwiceinthefirst row,thenover-
lapone-halfthetiller width ontherest ofthepasses(seeFig.6).Whenfinishedin
onedirection,makea secondpassata rightangle,as shownin Fig.4-7. Overlap
eachpassfor best results(invery hardground,it maytakethreeor four passesto
thoroughlypulverizethesoil.)
m_
Fig. 4-6 Fig. 4-7
If thegardensizewill not permitlengthwiseandthencrosswisetilling, thenover-
lapthefirst passesbyone-halfatiller
width,followedbysuccessivepasses ....................v .................................
at one-quarterwidth (seeFig.4-8). _ _
Fig. 4-8
Cultivating
With planning, you can =,,_r,_, ..,'qr_
allow enoughroom _" _ (_
betweenrows to cultivate _ _
(seeFig.4-9). Leaveroom _ _
for the hood width,
plus enough extra _ _'
roomfor future plant Fig.4-9
growth.
14
TILLINGTIPS&TECHNIQUES(CON'T)
TillingOnSlopes
Readthe followingrecommendationsbeforetilling onslopes:
Ifyou mustgardenon amoderateslope,pleasefollow two very importantguidelines:
1.Tillonlyon moderateslopes,neveronsteepgroundwherefootingisdifficult (reviewsafe-
ty rulesin Section1:Safetyofthis manual).
2. We recommendtilling up and down slopesratherthan terracing.Tillingvertically on a
slopeallows maximumplantingareaandalsoleavesroomfor cultivating.
IMPORTANT:Whentilling onslopes,besurethecorrectoil levelis maintainedin theengine
(checkeveryone-halfhour of operation).Theinclineof the slopewill causethe oil to slant
awayfrom its normallevelandthis canstarveenginepartsof requiredlubrication.Keepthe
motor oil levelatthefull pointatall times!
WAHNING: Donot
operatetiller on aslopetoo
steepfor safe operation.Till
slowly and besureyou have
good footing. Neverpermit
tiller to freewheeldown
slopes.Failureto follow this
warning could result in
personalinjury.
Tilling Upand DownSlopes(VerticalTilling)
Tokeepsoil erosionto aminimum, besureto addenoughorganicmatterto thesoil sothat it hasgoodmoisture-holdingtextureandtry
to avoidleavingfootprints or wheelmarks.
Whentilling vertically,tryto makethefirst passuphillasthetillerdigsmoredeeplygoing uphillthanitdoesdownhill.Insoftsoilor weeds,
youmayhaveto lift the handlebarsslightlywhilegoing uphill.Whengoingdownhill,overlapthefirst passbyaboutone-halfthewidth of
thetiller.
Clearingthe Tines
Thetines havea self-clearing action which eliminates most tangling of debris in the
tines. However,occasionally dry grass, stringy stalksor tough vines maybecometan-
gled. Follow these proceduresto help avoid tangling andto cleanthe tines, if neces-
sary.
To reducetangling, setthe depth regulatordeepenoughto get maximum "chopping"
action as the tines chop the materialagainst the ground. Also, try to till under crop
residues or covercrops while they aregreen, moist and tender.
• While tilling, try swaying the handlebars from side to side (about 6" to 12"). This
"fishtailing" actionoften clearsthe tines of debris.
If tangling occurs, lift the tines out of the soil and run the tiller in reverse(if unit is
equippedwith poweredreverse) for afew feet.This reversing action should unwind a
good deal of debris.
It may benecessaryto removethe debris by hand(a
pocketknifewill helpyou to cut awaythe material). Be
sure to stop the engineand disconnect the sparkplug
wire beforeclearing the tines by hand.
WARNING: Beforeclearing the
tines by hand,stop the engine,allowall
moving partsto stop anddisconnect the
spark plug wire. Removethe ignition key
on electric start models.
Failureto follow this warning could result
in personalinjury.
LoadingandUnloadingtheTiller
_ ARNING: Loadingand
unloadingthe tiller into avehicle is
potentially hazardousandwe don't
recommend doing so unless
absolutelynecessary,asthiscould
result in personal injury or
property damage.
However,if you must load or
unloadthe tiller, follow the
guidelines givennext.
• Beforeloadingor unloading, stopthe engine,
wait for all parts to stop moving,
disconnect the spark plug wire and letthe en-
gine and muffler cool.
• Thetiller is too heavy andbulky to lift safely
by oneperson. Twoor morepeople should
sharethe load.
• Use sturdy ramps andmanually (engineshut
off) roll the tiller into and out ofthe
vehicle. Two or more people areneededto do
this.
• Theramps mustbe strongenoughto support
the combined weight of the tiller and any han-
dlers. Theramps should provide good traction
to prevent slipping; they shouldhavesiderails
to guidethe tiller alongthe ramps; andthey
should havealocking deviceto securethemto
the
vehicle.
• Thehandlersshouldwearsturdyfootwearthat
will helpto preventslipping.
Position the loading vehicle sothat the ramp
angleis as flat as possible(the less inclineto
the ramp, the better).Turnthe
vehicle'sengineoff andapply its parking brake.
• When going up ramps, stand in the
normal operating position and push the tiller
ahead of you. Havea personat eachside to
turn the wheels.
When going down ramps,walk backward
with the tiller following you. Keepalertfor any
obstaclesbehind you. Position a personat
eachwheel to control the speedof the tiller.
Nevergo down ramps tiller-first, asthe tiller
could tip forward.
Placewooden blocks on the downhill side of
the wheels if you needto stop the tiller from
rolling down the ramp.Also, use the blocks to
temporarily keep the tiller in place onthe
ramps (if necessary),and to chockthe wheels
in place after the tiller is in the vehicle.
After loading the tiller, prevent it from rolling
byengaging the wheels in the WHEELDRIVE
position. Chockthe wheelswith blocks andse-
curelytie the tiller down.
15
TILLINGTIPS&TECHNIQUES(CON'T)
TerraceGardening(continued)
Tocreateaterrace,startat thetop of the slopeand work down. Gobackand
forth acrossthefirst rowasshownin Fig.4-10.
Eachsucceedinglowerterraceis startedby walking belowthe terraceyou're 0 m_
preparing.Foraddedstability ofthetiller,alwayskeeptheuphillwheelinthesoft,
newlytilled soil. Donottill the last 12"or moreof thedownhill outsideedgeof
eachterrace.Thisuntilledstrip helpspreventstheterracesfrom breakingapart
andwashingdownhill. It alsoprovidesa walkingpathbetweenrows. _, REPEAT
Fig. 4-10
LOADINGAND UNLOADING
THE TILLER
,_ WARNING: Loadingand
unloading thetiller into a
vehicleis potentially hazardous
andwedon't recommenddoing
so unlessabsolutelynecessary,
asthis could result inpersonal
injury or property damage.
However,if you must load or
unloadthe tiller, follow the
guidelinesgivennext.
Beforeloading or unloading,stop the en-
gine,wait for all parts to stop moving,
disconnect the spark plug wire and letthe
engineand muffler cool.
Thetiller istoo heavyandbulky to lift
safelyby one person.Twoor more people
should sharethe load.
Usesturdy ramps and manually (engine
shut off) roll thetiller into andout of the
vehicle.Twoor more peopleareneededto
do this.
Theramps must bestrong enoughto
support the combined weight of thetiller
and anyhandlers. The rampsshould pro-
videgoodtraction to preventslipping; they
should haveside railsto guidethetiller
along the ramps; andthey should havea
locking deviceto securethem to the
vehicle.
Thehandlersshouldwearsturdyfootwear
that will helpto preventslipping.
Position the loading vehicle so that the
ramp angle is asflat aspossible (the less
incline to the ramp,the better). Turnthe
vehicle'sengine off and apply its parking
brake.
Whengoing up ramps,stand in the
normal operating position andpush the
tiller aheadofyou. Havea person ateach
sideto turn the wheels.
Whengoing down ramps,walkbackward
with thetiller following you. Keepalertfor
anyobstacles behindyou. Position a per-
son ateachwheelto control the speedof
thetiller. Nevergo down rampstiller-first,
asthe tiller could tip forward.
Placewoodenblocksonthedownhill side
of the wheels if you needto stop the tiller
from rolling downthe ramp. Also, usethe
blocksto temporarily keepthe tiller in
placeon the ramps (if necessary),and to
chockthe wheels in placeafter the tiller is
in the vehicle.
After loading the tiller, prevent it from
rolling byengagingthe wheels in the
WHEELDRIVEposition. Chockthe wheels
with blocksandsecurelytiethetiller down.
16
SECTION5: MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Before
inspecting, cleaningor servicing
the machine,shut off engine,
wait for all moving partsto come
to acompletestop, disconnect
spark plug wire and movewire
awayfrom spark plug. Remove
ignition keyon electricstart
models.
Failureto follow these
instructions can result in serious
personalinjury or property
damage.
MAINTENANCESCHEDULE
PROCEDURE
Checkmotor oil level
Cleanengine
Checkdrive belttension
Checknuts and bolts
Changemotor oil
Lubricate tiller
Serviceengine air cleaner system
Checkgearoil level in transmission
Checktines for wear
Checkair pressurein tires
(if unit haspneumatic tires)
Servicespark plug
NOTES
NOTES
2,3
2,7
1,4
1,4
4,6,9
4
1,5
5
5
1 Checkafter first 2 hours of break-in operation.
2 Before each use.
3 Every5 operating hours.
4 Every 10operating hours,
5 Every30 operating hours,
6 Changemore frequently in dusty conditions.
7 - See EngineOwner's Manual forservice
recommendations.
8 - Whichever time interval occurs firsL
g - Changeafter first 2 hours of break-in
TILLER LUBRICATION
After every 10 operating hours, oilor
greasethe lubrication points shown in
Figure5-1 and described below.
Usecleanlubricating oil (#30weight motor
oil is suitable) and cleangeneralpurpose
grease(greasecontaining ametallubricant
is preferred, if available).
Removethe wheels,cleanthe wheelshaft
(A,Fig. 5-1) and applya thin coating of
greaseto the wheelshaft.
Greasethe back,front and sides of the
depthregulator lever (B, Fig.5-1).
Removethetines andcleanthetine shaft
(C,Fig.5-1). Usea file or sandpaperto gen-
tly removeany rust, burrs or rough spots
(especiallyaround holes in shaft). Apply
greaseto ends of shaft beforeinstalling
tines.
Oil thethreads on the handlebar height
adjustment screws and the handlebar
attaching screws (D, Fig.5-1).
D B
Figure5-1
CHECKFOROILLEAKS
Beforeeachuse,checkthetiller for signs of
an oil leak-- usually adirty, oily accumu-
lation eitheron the unit or on the floor.
A little seepagearound a cover or anoil
sealis usuallynot a causefor alarm. How-
ever,if the oil drips overnight, then imme-
diateattention is needed.Ignoring an off
leakcanresult in severetransmission
damage!
17
If acover is leaking,check for loose
screws. If the screws are tight, a new
gasket or oil seal may be required.
If the leakisfrom around a shaft andoil
seal, the oil sealprobably needsto be
replaced.Seeyour authorized dealeror
contact the factory for serviceor advice.
IMPORTANT:Neveroperatethe tiller if
thetransmission islow on oil.Checkthe
oil levelafter every30 hours of
operationand wheneverthere is anyoil
leakage.
CHECKHARDWARE
Checkfor looseor missing hardwareaf-
ter every 10 operatinghoursandtighten
or replace(asneeded)beforereusing
tiller
Besureto checkthe screws underneath
thetiller hoodthat securethe transmis-
sioncoverandtheDepthRegulatorLever
to thetransmission.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE
(Modelswith pneumatictires)
Checkthe air pressurein bothtires. The
air pressure should bebetween 15 PSi
and 20 PSi (pounds per squareinch).
Keepbothtires equally inflated to help
prevent machinefrom pulling to one
side.
TRANSMISSION
GEAROIL SERVICE
Checkthe transmission gear oil level
after every 30 hours of operationor
wheneveryou notice any oil leak.Oper-
ating thetiller whenthe transmission is
low on oil can result in severedamage.
A. To ChecktheTransmission
GearOil Level:
1. Checkthe gear oil levelwhenthe
transmission is cool. Gearoil will
expandin warmoperatingtemperatures
and this expansionwill providean incor-
rect oil level reading.
2. With thetiller onlevelground, pull the
Depth Regulator Leverall the way up.
3. Removethe oilfill plug (A,Fig. 5-2)
from thetransmission housingandlook
insidethe oil fill hole to locatethe main
driveshaft situated belowthe hole.
WARNING: Beforeinspecting,cleaningor servicing the machine,shut off engine,wait for all
moving partsto come to a completestop, disconnectspark plug wireand move wireawayfrom
spark plug. Failureto follow these instructions canresult in serious personalinjury or property
damage.
4. Thegear oil leveliscorrect ifthegear oil
isapproximately halfwayupthe sideofthe
main driveshaft.
5. Ifthe gearoil levelislow, addgearoil as
described next.If the gearoil levelis okay,
securely replacethe oil fill plug.
IMPORTANT:Donot operatethe tiller ifthe
gear oil level islow. Doingso will resultin
severedamageto the transmission com-
ponents.
Figure5-2:Removeofffi/I p/ug(tl) tocheck
gearoff levelandtoaddgearoiL Remove
fourcoverscrews(B)todraingearoil.
6. If adding only afew ouncesof gear oil,
useAPIratedGL-4or GL-5gearoil having
a viscosity of SAE140, SAE85W-140 or
SAE80W-90. If refilling an emptytrans-
mission, useonly GL-4gear oil having a
viscosity of SAE85W-140 or SAE140.
IMPORTANT:Donot useautomatic trans-
mission fluid or motor oil in thetransmis-
sion.
7. Whilecheckingfrequentlyto avoidover-
filling, slowly addgear oil into the oil fill
hole until it reachesthe halfway point on
the driveshaft.
8. Securely replacethe oil fill plug.
B. ToDrain theTransmissionGearOil:
Thetransmission gear oil doesnot needto
bechangedunless it hasbeencontaminat-
ed with dirt, sand or metal particles.
1. Draingasolinefrom thefuel tank or run
the engine until thefuel tankis empty.See
"DANGER"statement below.
WARNING: Gasolineis
highlyflammableandits vapors
areexplosive. Followthese
safety practicesto prevent
personalinjury or property
damagefrom fire or explosion.
Allow the engine and muffler to cool
for at least two minutesbefore drain-
ingthetiller's gasolinetank.
Do not allow open flames, sparks,
matchesor smokingin thearea.
Wipe away spills and pushtiller away
from spilledfuel.
Use only an approvedfuel container
and store it safelyout of the reach of
children.
Donotstoregasolinein anarea where
itsvaporscould reach an open flame
or spark,orwhere ignitionsourcesare
present(such as hot water and space
heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers,
stoves,electricmotors,etc.)
2. Drainthe oil from the engine.
3. Removefour screws (B,Figure5-2)and
removetransmissioncoverandgasket.
4. Removethe left-side wheel.
5. Tilt the left-side wheelshaft into a drain
panand allowthe gearoil to drainthrough
the top of thetransmission.
6. Reinstallthe wheel.
7. Install a newgasket (do not reuseold
gasket)and reinstallthetransmission cov-
er.
8. Refill thetransmission using GL-4gear
oil (SAE85W-140 or SAE140).
g. Refill the enginewith motor oil and re-
plenishthe fuel tank with gasoline.
BOLOTINES
Thebolo tines will wearwith useand
should beinspectedat the beginning of
eachtilling seasonand afterevery30 oper-
ating hours. Thetines can bereplacedei-
ther individually or as a completeset. See
the Parts List pagesfor tine identification
and part numbers.
A. Tine Inspection:
With use,the tines will becomeshorter,
narrower and pointed. Badlyworn tines
will result in a loss of tilling depth,and re-
ducedeffectivenesswhenchopping up
andturning underorganic matter.
B. Removing4nstalling a Single Tine:
1. With the engine shut off andthe spark
plug wire disconnected,remove thetwo
screws (A,Figure5-3) and nuts (B)that at-
tachasingletineto atine holder.If needed,
usepenetrating oil on the nuts.
2. When installing a singletine, besureto
position it so that its cutting edge (sharp)
will enter the softfirst asthe tiller moves
forward.
C. Removing4nstallinga TineAssembly:
1. Atine assemblyconsists of eight tines
mounted on atine holder.
2. If removing both tine assemblies,mark
them "left" and "right" beforeremoval. Re-
move the screw (C, Figure5-3) and lock-
nut (D)that securethetineassemblytothe
tineshaft. Ifnecessary,usea rubbermallet
to tapthe tine assembly outward off the
shaft.
3. Beforereinstalling thetine assembly,in-
spectthe tineshaftfor rust, roughspots or
burrs. Lightly file or sand, asneeded.Ap-
ply a thin coat of greaseto the shaft.
4. Install eachtine assemblyso that the
cutting (sharp) edge of thetines wifl enter
thesoil first whenthefiller movesforward.
Securethe fine assemblyto the tine shaft
usingthe screwand Iocknut
18
,_ WARNING: Beforeinspecting,cleaningor servicing the machine,shut off engine,wait for all
moving partsto come to a completestop, disconnectspark plug wireand move wireawayfrom
spark plug. Failureto follow these instructions canresult in serious personalinjury or property
damage.
C
\
FORWARD
Figure5-3: Install tinesso thatcuttingedge oftines entersoftfirst whentiller movesforward.
CHECKINGAND ADJUSTING
FORWARDDRIVE BELT TENSION
It is important to maintain correct tension
on the forward drive belt. A loosebelt will
causethetinesandwheelsto slow down--
or stop completely -- eventhough the en-
gine is running at full speed.A too tight
belt can result in unintentional tine move-
ment whenthe clutch bail isin the Neutral
(released)position.
Checkbelt tension after the first two
hours ofbreak-inoperationandafter every
10 operatinghours.
Atthe end of eachtilling season,check
the beltfor cracks,cuts orfrayed edges
and replaceit as soonas possible.
tension is correct if this second measure-
ment isbetween1/6"-to- 3/16"longerthan
the first measurement.
4. If the spring is too short (lessthan
1/16"),the tension is too loose. Ifthe
spring istoo long (morethan 3/16"), the
tension is too tight.
5. Toadjust the length of thespring:
a. Releasethe Forward Clutch Bail.
b. Unthreadthe hexnut (C,Figure5-4)
halfway up the adjustment screw (D).
c. Unhookthetop ofthe springfrom the
Forward Clutch Bail.
d. Usepliersto preventthe adjuster (B)
from turning andturn the slotted screwlo-
cated insidethe spring clockwise (viewed
from operator'sposition) to increaseten-
sion onthespring. Turnthescrewcounter-
clockwiseto decreasetension. Once
adjusted, reattachthe spring to the For-
ward Clutch Bail.
e.RepeatSteps2and3to re-measurethe
lengthofthespring.Whenthesecondmea-
surementis between1/16"-to-3/16"longer
thanthefirst measurement,retightenthehex
nut (C)againstthetop oftheadjuster(B).
ReplacementBelt Information
If the drive belt needsto be replaced,see
your local authorizeddealeror referto the
Parts List for ordering information. Use
only a factory-authorized belt asan "over-
the-counter" belt may not perform satis-
factorily. Theprocedure requiresaverage
mechanicalability andcommonly available
tools.
ToCheckForwardBeltTension:
1. Stopengine,wait for all partsto stop
moving and disconnect spark plug wire.
2. With the ForwardClutchBailinan open
(released)position, measureand notethe
overalllengthofthecablespring (A,Figure
5-4) by measuringfrom the outermost coil
to the outermost coil.
3. SqueezetheForwardClutchBailagainst
the handlebar(seeFigure5-4) and re-
measurethe length of the coils. Thebelt
Figure5-4: Tocheckforwardbelt tension,taketwomeasurementsofthe
overa//length ofthecoilsin thespring-- first withthedutch bail open,
thenwith thedutch bail closedagainstthe handlebar.
19
,_ WARNING: Beforeinspecting,cleaningor servicing the machine,shut off engine,wait for all
moving partsto come to a completestop, disconnectspark plug wireand move wireawayfrom
spark plug. Failureto follow these instructions canresult in serious personalinjury or property
damage.
FORWARDCLUTCH
BAIL ADJUSTMENT
If the Forward Clutch Baildoes not func-
tion properly,first checkthat the forward
drive belt is adjusted properly (seeCheck-
ing andAdjusting Forward Drive Belt Ten-
sion). If this failsto correct the problem,
contact Troy-Bilt LLCor your authorized
dealerfor serviceadvice.
CHECKINGANDADJUSTINGRE-
VERSEDRIVEBELTTENSION
(Models643B & 645A only)
It is important to maintain correct tension
on the reversedrive belt. A loosebeltwill
causethetines andwheelsto slow down-
or stop completely - eventhough the en-
gine is running at full speed.
Whencheckingbelttension, alsocheckthe
belt for cracks, cuts or frayed edgesand
replaceit as soonas possible.
Checkbelt tension after the first two
hours ofbreak-inoperationandafter every
10 operatinghours.
ToCheckReverseBeltTension:
1. Stopengine,wait for all parts to stop
moving and disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Removescrew in plastic beltcover and
slide beltcover (which is attachedto for-
ward clutch cable) out of the way.
3. Haveanassistant pull the Reverse
Clutch Control knob all the way out and
hold it inthat position. Measurethelength
of the cablewire betweenthe end of the
threadedcableadjuster (A,Figure5-5)and
the end of the Z-fitting (B)to which the ca-
ble wire is attached.
4. Thebelttension is idealif the cablewire
lengthmeasuresbetween1/8"to 1/4".If it is
lessthan 1/8"(andif there isno reverseac-
tion whenthe tiller is running),thenmake
the following adjustments
NOTE:Ifthe lengthis morethan 1/4",noad-
justment isneeded--as long asthe reverse
actionfunctions properly.
5. Releasethe ReverseClutchControl
knob.andthen unthreadthe inner jam nut
(C, Figure5-6) oneto two turns. Pull the
threaded cableadjuster (A, Figure5-6)to
the left untilthe innerjam nut (C)touches
the bracket.
6. Preventthe inner jam nut (C)from turn-
ing and tighten the outer jam nut (D)
againstthe bracket. Preventthe outer jam
nut (D)from turning and tightenthe inner
jam nut (C)againstthe bracket.
7. Measurethe gap by repeatingStep3.
Readjustasneededby repeatingSteps 5
and 6.
8. Reinstallthe belt cover.
Figure5-5: Measure cable wire lengthto
checkforcorrectreversebelt tension.
Figure5-6:Movethreadedadjuster(,4)toleft
toincreasebelttension.
Replacement Belt Information
If the drive belt needsto be replaced,see
your local authorizeddealeror referto the
Parts List for ordering information. Use
only a factory-authorized belt asan "over-
the-counter" belt may not perform satis-
factorily. Theprocedure requiresaverage
mechanicalability andcommonly available
tools.
ENGINECLEANING
Keepingthe enginecleanwill help to en-
sure smooth operation and prevent dam-
agefrom overheating.Referto the Engine
Owner's Manualfor enginecleaning ser-
vice intervals and instructions. Besure
thatthe muffler iscool beforeservicingthe
engine.
AIRCLEANERSERVICE
Theair cleanerfilters dirt and dust out of
the air before it enters the carburetor.Op-
eratingthe enginewith a dirty, cloggedair
filter can causepoor performanceand
damageto the engine. Neveroperatethe
enginewithout the air cleanerinstalled. In-
spectand service the aircleanermore of-
ten if operating in very dusty or dirty
conditions. Referto the engineOwner's
Manualfor air cleanerserviceintervalsand
instructions.
ENGINEOIL SERVICE
Checkthe engine oil level beforeeachuse
and after every five hours of continuous
operation. Runningthe enginewhen it is
low on oil will quickly ruin theengine.
It is recommendedthat you changethe
motor oil after every 10hours of operation
and evensoonerwhen operating in ex-
tremely dirty or dustyconditions. Referto
the EngineOwner'sManualfor detailed
serviceinstructions.
A. ToChecktheEngineOil Level:
1. Parkthetiller ona levelareaandshut off
the engine.
2. Leveltheengine (usethe Depth Regula-
tor Leverto adjust the engineangle).
2O
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Troy-Bilt PRO LINE Bronco 645A Owner's manual

Category
Mini tillers
Type
Owner's manual

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