Troy-Bilt 12217 Owner's manual

Brand: Troy-Bilt

Model: 12217

Category: Mini tillers

Type: Owner's manual

This manual is also suitable for

Models

12217- 3.5HPTUFFY®

12208- 4.5HPSuperTUFFY®

12209- 5.5HP BRONCOTM

12210- 6.5HP SuperBRONCOTM

GARDEN WAY INCORPORATED

Owner'sManual

TILLERS

• Safety

• Assembly

• Controls

• Operation

• Maintenance

• PartsList

Model

122O8

Model

12210

DearOwner:

You now own one of thefinest standard-rotating-tine tillers

available.Your newtiller allows youto till and cultivate your

gardenwith ease,and accomplish dozensof other property

managementprojects as well. Your tiller is famous for its

ruggedness,performance and high-quality engineering. We

know you'll enjoy using it.

Pleasecarefully readthis Manual. It tells you howto safely

and easily assemble,operateand maintain your machine

(four tiller modelsare covered in this Manual ... be sureto

useonly the information appropriateto your tiller model).

Besure thatyou and any other operators carefully follow

the recommendedsafety practices at all times. Failureto

do so could result in personal injury or property damage.

Ofcourse, if you should ever haveany problems or

questions, pleasecontact your local authorized dealer or

callthe Factory (see backcover of this Manual). We want to

be surethat you are completely satisfied at all times.

NOTE: Besure to fill out and returnthe Warranty Registra-

tion Cardthat was supplied with this Manual.

See Back Cover for

Customer Service Information

Safety Alert Symbol

,_. This isa safetyalert symbol. It is used in this

manual and on the unit to alert you to

potential hazards. When you seethis symbol,

read and obey the messagethat follows it.

Failureto obey safety messagescould result in personal

injury or property damage.

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.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Tableof Contents

SECTION1: SAFETY........................................... 3

SafetyDecals .................................................................... 5

SECTION2: ASSEMBLY....................................... 6

AttachHandlebar............................................................... 7

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

Install ForwardClutch Cable.............................................. 8

Install ReverseClutchCable(Models 12209/12210) ......... 9

CheckLevelof Transmission GearOil................................ 9

Add Motor 0il to Engine..................................................... 9

CheckHardwarefor Tightness........................................... 9

CheckAir Pressurein Tires................................................ 9

SECTION3: FEATURES& CONTROLS........................ 10

WheelDrive Pins............................................................... 10

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

ReverseClutch Control (Models 12209/12210) ................. 11

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

HandlebarHeight Adjustment ............................................ 12

SECTION4: OPERATION...................................... 13

Break-in Operation............................................................. 13

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

Operatingthe Tiller ............................................................ 14

TillingTips & Techniques.................................................. 16

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

Loading and Unloadingthe Tiiier ....................................... 18

SECTION5: MAINTENANCE.................................. 19

Required MaintenanceSchedule........................................ 19

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

Checkfor Oil Leaks............................................................ 20

CheckHardware................................................................. 20

CheckTire Pressure........................................................... 20

Transmission GearOil Service........................................... 20

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

Checkingand Adjusting Forward Drive BeltTension.......... 22

Forward ClutchBail Adjustment......................................... 22

Checkingand Adjusting ReverseDrive Belt

Tension (Models 12209/1221g)...................................... 23

Engine Cleaning................................................................. 23

Air CleanerService............................................................. 23

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

Spark Plug Service............................................................. 24

SparkArrester ScreenService........................................... 24

Carburetor/Governor Control Adjustments ........................ 24

Off SeasonStorage............................................................ 24

Troubleshooting................................................................. 25

Tiller Attachments............................................................. 25

PARTSLIST ..................................................... 26

CUSTOMERSERVICEINFORMATION.............. BackCover

SPARKARRESTERWARNINGTO RESIDENTSOFCALIFORNIAANDSEVERALOTHERSTATES

Under CaIifornialaw, and under the laws of severalother states,you are not permitted to operatean

internal combustion engineusing hydrocarbon fuels on anyforest, brush, hay, grain, or grass

covered land; or Iandcoveredby anyflammable agricultural crop without an engine spark attester in

continuous effectiveworking order.

Theengine on the unit is an internal combustion enginewhich burns gasoline, a hydrocarbon fuel, and must beequipped with a

spark arrester muffler in continuous effectiveworking order. The spark arrester must beattachedto the engineexhaust system in

such a manner that flames or heatfrom the system will not ignite flammable material. Failureof the owner/operator of the unit to

comply with this regulation is a misdemeanor under California law (and other states) and may also be a violation of other state

and/or federal regulations,laws, ordinances or codes. Contactyour localfire marshal or forest service for specific information

aboutwhich regulations apply in your area.

Training

1. Carefully readthis

Owner's Manual,the

separateEngineOwner's

Manual,and anyother literature you may

receive.Bethoroughly familiar with the

controls and the proper useof the tiller

and its engine. Know how to stop the unit

and disengagethe controls quickly.

2. Never allow children to operatethe

tiller. Neverallow adults to operatethe

tiller without proper instruction.

3. Keepthe areaof operationclear of all

persons, particularly children and pets.

4. Keepin mind that the operatoror user

is responsible for accidents or hazards

occurring to other people,their property,

and themselves.

Preparation

1. Thoroughly inspectthe areawhere the

tiller isto be usedand remove all foreign

objects.

2. Besure all tiller controls are released

and both wheels are in the WheelDrive

position beforestarting the engine.

3. Do not operatethe tiller without

wearing adequateouter garments.Avoid

loose garments or jewelry that could get

caught in moving parts.

4. Do not operatethe tiller when barefoot

or wearing sandals,sneakers,or light

footwear. Wear protective footwear that

will improve footing on slippery surfaces.

5. Donot till near underground electric

cables,telephone lines, pipesor hoses. If

in doubt, contact your telephone or utility

company.

6. Warning: HandlefueI with care; it is

highly flammable and its vapors are

explosive. Besure to takethe following

precautions:

StorefueI in containers specifically

designedfor this purpose,

Thegascap shall neverbe removed

or fuel added while the engine is

running. Allow the engineto coot

for several minutes beforeadding

fuel.

Keepmatches, cigarettes, cigars,

pipes, openflames, and sparks

awayfrom the fuel tank and fuel

container.

d. Fillfuel tank outdoors with extreme

care. Neverfill fuel tank indoors.

Use afunnel or spout to prevent

spillage.

e. ReplacealIfuel tank and container

caps securely.

I. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to

start the engine,but move the

machine awayfrom the areaof

spillage and avoid creating any

source of ignition until fuel vapors

havedissipated.

7. Nevermake adjustments when engine

is running (unless recommended by

manufacturer).

Operation

1. Do not put handsor feet near or under

rotating parts.

2. Exerciseextreme caution when on or

crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

Stay alertfor hidden hazardsor traffic. Do

not carry passengers.

3. After striking a foreign object, stop the

engine, remove the wire from the spark

plug wire and prevent it from touching

the spark plug. Thoroughly inspectthe

machine for any damageand repair the

damage before restartingand operating

the machine.

4. Exercisecaution to avoid slipping or

falling.

5. If the unit should start to vibrate abnor-

mally, stop the engine, disconnect the

spark plug wire and prevent it from

touching the spark plug, and check

immediately for the cause.Vibration is

generallya warning of trouble.

6. Stop the engine,disconnect the spark

plug wire and prevent itfrom touching

the spark plug wheneveryou leavethe

operating position, before unclogging the

tines, or when making any repairs, adjust-

ments or inspections.

Section1: Safety

7. Takeall possible precautions when

leavingthe machine unattended.Stop the

engine. Disconnectspark plug wire and

move itaway from the spark plug. Be

sure both wheels are in the Wheel Drive

position.

8. Beforecleaning, repairing, or inspect-

ing, stop the engineand makecertain all

moving parts havestopped. Disconnect

the spark plugwire and prevent it from

touching the spark plug to prevent acci-

dental starting.

9, Theflap on thetine hood must be

down when operatingthe tiller.

10. Neverusethe tiller unless proper

guards, plates,or other safety protective

devicesare in place.

11. Do not run engine in an enclosed

area.Engineexhaustcontains carbon

monoxide gas, a deadlypoison that is

odorless, colorless, and tasteless.

12. Keepchildren and pets away.

13. Heveroperatethe tiller under

enginepoweritthe wheels are in the

Freewheelposition.In theFreewheel

position, the wheels will not hold the tiller

back andthe revolving tines could propel

the ti!ler rapidly, possiblycausing toss of

control. Alwaysengagethe wheeIswith

the wheeldrive pins in the Wheel Drive

position beforestarting the engine or

engaging the tines/wheelswith the

Forward ClutchBail (all Models) or the

ReverseClutch control (Models

12209/12210 only).

14. Be awarethatthe tiller may unex-

pectedlybounceupwardorjump

forwardif the tinesshouldstrike

extremely hardpackedsoil, frozen

ground,or buriedobstacleslike large

stones,roots,or stumps.If in doubt

aboutthe tilling conditions,alwaysuse

thefollowingoperatingprecautionsto

assistyouin maintainingcontrolofthe

tiller:

a. Walk behindandto oneside ofthe

tiller, usingone handon the han-

dlebars. Relaxyourarm, but usea

securehandgrip.

b. Useshallowerdepthregulator

settings,workinggradually

deeperwith eachpass.

c. Useslower enginespeeds.

d. Clear thetilling area ofall large

stones, reotsand otherdebris.

e. Avoidusingdownwardpressure

onhandlebars. If needbe, use

slight upwardpressureto keepthe

tines from diggingtoo deeply.

f. Beforecontactinghardpackedsoil

atthe end ofa row, reduce engine

speedand lift handlebarsto raise

tines out ofthe soil.

In an emergency,stoptines and

wheels byreleasingwhichever

clutchcontrolis engaged.Do not

attemptto restrainthe tiller.

15. Donot overloadthe tiller's capacity

by attempting to till too deeplyat too fast

a rate,

16. Neveroperatethe tiller at high

transport speeds on hard or slippery

surfaces. Look behind and usecarewhen

backing up.

17. Donot operatethe tiller on a slope

that is too steepfor safety.When on

slopes, slow down and make sureyou

havegood footing, Neverpermit the tiller

te freewheel down slopes.

18. Neverallow bystanders near the unit.

19. Only useattachments and acces-

sories that are approved bythe manufac-

turer of the tiller.

20. Usetiller attachments and acces-

sories when recommended.

21. Neveroperatethetiller without good

visibility or light.

22. Neveroperatethe tiIIer if you are

tired, or under the influence of alcohol,

drugs or medication.

23. Operators shall not tamper with the

engine-governor settings on the machine;

the governor controls the maximum safe

operatingspeedto protect the engine and

all moving parts from damagecaused by

overspeed. Authorized service shall be

sought if a problem exists.

24. Do not touch engine parts which may

be hot from operation. Let parts cool

down sufficiently.

25. Pleaseremember: You canalways

stop thetines and wheels by releasingthe

ForwardClutch Bailor on ModeIs 12209

and 12210 the ReverseClutch control,

(whichevercontrol is engaged),or by

moving the ignition switch and/or throttle

control leveron the engineto "OFF"or

"STOP".

26. To loador unloadthe tiller, seethe

instructions in Section 4 of this Manual.

27. Useextreme caution when reversing

or pulling the machine towards you.

28. Start the engine carefully according to

instructions and with feet well away from

the tines.

29. Never pick up or carry a machine

while theengine is running.

Maintenance and Storage

1. Keepthetiller, attachments and acces-

sories in safe working condition.

2. Checkall nuts, bolts, and screws at

frequent intervaIsfor proper tightness te

be surethe equipment is in safeworking

condition.

3. Neverstore the tiller with fuel in the

fuel tank inside a building where ignition

sources are presentsuch as bet water

and space heaters,furnaces, clothes

dryers, stoves, electric motors, etc.).

Allow engineto cool before storing in any

enclosure.

4. To reducethe chancesof afire hazard,

keepthe engine free of grass, leaves,or

excessivegrease.

5. Store gasolinein a cool, welI-ventilated

area,safelyawayfrom any spark- er

flame-producing equipment. Store

gasoline in an approved container, safely

away from the reachof children.

6. Referto the Maintenancesections of

this Manualand the separate Engine

Owner'sManualfor instructions if the

tiller isto be stored for an extended

period.

7. Never perform maintenancewhile the

engine is running or the spark plug wire

isconnected, exceptwhen specifically

instructed to do so.

8. If the fuel tankhas to be drained, do

this outdoors.

Section1: Safety

Decals

Foryour safety and the safety of

others, various safety andopera-

tional decals arelocated on your

unit (seeFigure 1).

Keepthe decals clean and legible at

all times. Contactyour local

servicedealer or the factory for

replacementsif any decals are

damagedor missing.

Referto the Parts List pagesin this

Manualfor decallocations, descrip-

tions and part numbers.

ForwardClutchBail

OperatingInstruction

StartingStabilization

Message (onengine)

WarningMessages

ReverseClutchControl

OperatingInstruction

(Models12209/12210)

HotSurfaces/MovingBelts

Warning(onbeltcover)

Figure1: LocationofSafety and OperatingDecals (5.5HP Model shown),

OperatingSymbols I"1 I÷l

Various symbols (shown here,with word CHOKE CHOKE REVERSE

descriptions)areusedonthetillerandengine. ON OFF

Yourunitmaynothaveallofthesymbols.

FAST SLOW STOP TILLER DIRECTION

ROTATING

TINES

LEVERDIRECTION

BAIL

ENGAGED

BAIL

DISENGAGED

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:

• READTHEOWNER'SMANUAL.

• KNOWLOCATIONSANDFUNCTIONSOF ALLCONTROLS,

• KEEPALL SAFETYDEVICESAND SHIELDSIN PLACEAND WORKING.

• NEVERALLOWCHILDRENOR UNINSTRUCTEDADULTSTO OPERATETILLER.

• SHUTOFFENGINEAND DISCONNECTSPARKPLUGWIREBEFOREMANUALLYUNCLOG-

GINGTINESOR MAKINGREPAIRS.

• KEEPBYSTANDERSAWAYFROMMACHINE.

• KEEPAWAY FROMROTATINGPARTS.

• USE EXTREMECAUTIONWHENREVERSINGORPULLINGTHEMACHINETOWARDSYOU.

Assembly

To prevent personal injury or property

damage, do not start the engine until

all assembly steps are complete and

you have read and understand the

satety and operatinginstructionsin this

mannal.

Introduction

Carefullyfollow these assembly steps to

correctly prepare your tiller for use. It is

recommendedthat you read this Section

in its entirety before beginning assembly.

NOTE:Various tiller models are presented

in this Manual. Use only the information

appropriate for your tiller model.

Inspectunit

Inspectthe unit and carton for damage

immediately after 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 writing and mail a copy to the

carrier within 15 days after the unit has

beendelivered. Contact us atthe factory if

you needassistancein this matter.

STEP1: Unpacking Instructions

NOTE:Becareful notto severelybend any

of the control cableson the unit.

1. Removeanycardboard inserts and

packagingmaterial from the carton.

Removeany staplesfrom the bottom of

the carton and remove the carton.

2.Thetiller is heavy(approximately 133

Ibs.). Do not attemptto remove itfrom

the shipping platform until instructed to

do so in these "Assembly" steps.

3. Removeall unassembledpartsand

theseparate hardwarebagfrom the

carton. Checkthat you havethe items

listed below (contact your local dealer or

the factory if anyitems are missing or

damaged). NOTE: Usethe screw length

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

LoosePartsList

Qty. Description

1 HandlebarSupport (seeA, Fig. 2-2,

page7)

1 HandlebarAssembly(seeK, Fig.2-2)

Thefollowing items

are in the hardwarebag:

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

1 Hexhd. screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"

6 Hex hd.screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

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

2 Flatwasher, 3/8"

6 Split Iockwasher,5/16"

1 Hexlocknut, 1/4"-20

6 Hexnut, 5/16"-18

1 Hex nut, #10-24

2 Hexlocknut, 3/8"-16

1 Spring, cable(seeW, Fig. 2-5,

page8)

1 Bracket, forward clutch cable(see

P, Fig. 2-4, page8)

IMPORTANT:Motor oil must be addedto

the engine crankcasebeforethe engine is

started. Follow the instructions in this

"Assembly" Section and in the separate

Engine Owner's Manual

NOTE:LEFTand RIGHTsides of the tiller

are asviewed from the operator's

position behind the handlebars.

Tools/MaterialsNeeded

for Assembly

(1) 3/8" open-end wrench*

(2) 7/16" open-endwrench*

(2) 1/2" open-endwrench*

(2) 9/16°open-end wrench*

(1) Large adjustable wrench (Models

12209/12210 only)

(1) Scissors (to trim plasticties)

(1) Ruler (for belttension check)

(1) Block of wood (to support tiller

when removing wheels)

(1) Tire pressure gauge(for models with

pneumatictires)

(1) Cleanoil funnel

(1) Clean.high-quality motoroil. Refer

to the Engine Owner's Manualfor

motor oil specifications and quantity

required,

Adjustable wrenches may be used.

Figure2-1: Toidentifylengthofscrew,

placescrewontemplateasshownand

measuredistancebetweenbottomofscrew

headandtip ofscrew,

Section2: Assembly

STEP2: AttachHandlebar

1. Looselyattach thetwo legs ofthe

handlebar support (A, Fig. 2-2) to the

inner sides of the tiller frame usingtwo

3/8"-16 x 3/4" bexhd, screws (B), 3/8"flat

washers (C)and 3/8"-16 bex Iocknuts(D).

2. Therearethree heightadjustment holes

in the two handlebar support brackets (E

and F, Fig.2-2). Choosea setting that will

positionthe handlebarsat approximately

waist levelwhenthe tines are 3"-4"into

the soil. Loosely attachthe support

brackets to the handlebarsupport (A)

using two 5/!6"-18 x 1-1/2" screws (G),

5/16" split Iockwashers(H) and 5/16"-18

bex nuts (I). NOTE:If a support bracket

will not move,loosen attaching screw (J)

and nut.

3. Attach the handlebarassembly (K) to

the handlebar support (A) using four

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

Iockwashers (H) and 5/16"-18 hexnuts (I).

Tighten thefour screws securely.

4. Tighten all handlebarmounting

hardwaresecurely.

STEP3: MoveTiller OffShipping

Platform

To movethe tiller without the engine

running, putthe wheels in the

FREEWHEELposition, as described below,

1. Usea sturdy block under the transmis-

sion to raiseone wheel about !" off the

"'_B H

Fig.22: Attachhandlebar(5,5HPModelshown).

ground,

2. Removethe hairpin cotter (L, Fig.2-3)

and wheeldrive pin (M). Slidethe wheel

inward on the wheel shaft (N). Reinstall

the wheel drive pin through the wheel

shaft only (not through the wheel hub)

and secure it with the hairpin cotter (push

hairpin cotter in asfar as it will go).

Repeatwith the other wheel.

3. Using the handlebar asa lever, roll the

tiller to afiat area.

IMPORTANT:Before starting the engine,

the wheels must be placedin theWHEEL

DRIVEposition (pins through wheel hubs

and wheel shaft). This procedure is

described in "Wheel Drive Pins" in

Section 3,

Fig. 2-3: Wheel in FREEWHEELposition

(wheel drivepin throughwheel shaft

only).

Section2: Assembly

STEP4: InstallForwardClutchCable

1. Attachthe forward clutch cablebracket (P,

Fig. 2-4) to the handlebarsupport (A) with a

1/4"-20 x 1-1/4" hexhd. screw (R, Fig. 2-4) and

1/4"-20 hexIocknut (S).Tighten securely,

2. Carefully unwrapthe forward clutch cable

(cablewithout a knob) from its shipping

position andslide the thin cablewire (T, Fig. 2-

4) into the slot in the cablebracket, Pushthe

cableconnector (U, Fig. 2-4) upthrough the

hole in the bracket until the groove in the

connector snaps into place.

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

Fig.2-5) into the cablespring (W) until the

screwthreads extendthrough the spring.

4. Threadthe #10-24 hex nut (Z, Fig,2-5)

halfwayonto the screw (V),

5. Threadthe screw into the cableadjuster (X).

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

"V"-shaped bend in the Forward Clutch Bail (Y).

7. Checkfor correct tension on the forward

drive belt by taking two measurementsof the

cablespring, asfollows:

a.With the Forward Clutch Bail (Y, Fig. 2-6) in

an open (released)position, measurethe

length of the cablespring (W) from the

outermost coil to theoutermost coil,

b. Lift and hold the ForwardClutch Bail against

the handlebar(seeFig. 2-7) and re-measure

the length ofthe coils while the spring is

under tension. The belttension is correct if

this second measurement is between 1/! 6"-

to- 3/16" longerthanthe first measurement.

If so, turn the hex nut (Z, Fig. 2-7) tightly

againstthe cableadjuster (X) while prevent-

ing theadjuster from turning.

c. If the spring length is incorrect, you must

adjust the cabletension as described in

"Checkingand Adjusting Forward Drive Belt

Tension" in Section 5. Incorrect tension on

the forward drive belt can result in belt

slippage(tension too loose)or un}ntentional

tine movement whenthe clutch bail is in

Neutral (tension too tight).

Fig. 2-4: Installing forwardclutchcable bracketandcable.

w--[

Z-- V

X--

Fig.2-5:Assemble

springandadjuster.

Fig.2-6. Installforwardclutchcable.

Fig. 2-7: Tocheckforwardbelt tension, take two measurementsofthe

overall lengthof the coils in the spring- first with theclutchbail open,

then withthe clutchbait closedagainst the handlebar.

Section2: Assembly

STEP5: Install ReverseClutch

Cable(Models12209/12210)

1. Unwrapthe reverse clutch cable (cable

with a knob, a large hex nut and a bracket

attachedto it) from its shipping position

and routethe cable (CC,Fig. 2-8 and Fig.

2-9) up to the handlebar. Besurethat the

cable is routed beneaththe Forward

Clutch Bail.

2. Removethe two self-tapping screws

(AA,Fig.2-8) from the handlebars,

position the reverse cable mounting

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

reinstall thetwo self-tapping screws.

3. Insertthe cable(CC)through the slot in

the cablebracketand position thethreaded

assembly sothat theflat side is aligned

with the flat side of the mounting hole.

Slide the largehex nut (DD) up thecable

and tighten it securely.

Flat Side

Fig. 2-8: Install reverse cable bracketand

reverseclutchcable.

Fig.2-8: Routereverseclutchcable(CC)as

shown.Attachwithcabletie (EE).

4. Fastenthe reverseclutch cableto the

left side handlebarwith a cabletie (EE,

Fig. 2-9).

5. Testthefunction of the reverse clutch

cableby pulling the knob out and

releasingit. Theknob should return to its

neutral position (resting against bracket).

If it doesn't, contact your local dealeror

the factory for technical assistance.

STEP6: CheckLevelof

TransmissionGearOil

Thetransmission was filled with gear oil

atthe factory, However, you should check

the gear oil levelto makecertain it is

correct.

IMPORTANT:Do not operatethe tiller if

the gear oil levelis low. Doing so will

result in severedamageto the transmis-

sion components.

1. With the tiller on levelground, puII the

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

back and then a!lthe way up until the

lowest notch in the lever is engaged.

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

from the transmission housing cover and

locate the main drive shaft situated inside

the housing.

3. Thegear oil levelis correct if the gear

oil isapproximately halfway up the sideof

the main drive shaft.

4. If the gear oil levelis low, add gear oil

by referringto "A. To Checkthe Transmis-

sion GearOil Level" in Section 5,

STEP7: AddMotor Oilto Engine

Thetiller is shipped withoutoil inthe

engine.

IMPORTANT: Donot start the engine

without first adding motoroiL Severe

engine damagewill result if the engine is

run without oil.

1. Referto the separate EngineOwner's

Manual for engine oil specifications and

capacities,

2. With the tiller on levelground, move

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

up or down until the engine is level.

3. Add motor oil as described in the

Engine Owner's Manual.

Fig. 2-10: Adjust DepthRegulatorLever.

Fig. 2-11: Removegear oil fill plug.

4. Move the Depth Regulator Lever all

the way down until the highest notch is

engaged. This placesthe tines in the

"travel" position.

STEP8: Check Hardware for

Tightness

Checkall nutsandscrewsfortightness,

STEP9: CheckAirPressurein

Tires(unitswith pneumatictires)

If the tires are equipped with air valves,

checkthe air pressure with atire gauge.

Deflateor inflate the tires equallyto 15-

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

surethat both tires are inflated equally or

the unit will pull to one side.

IMPORTANT: This completes the

assembly steps. Beforeoperating your

tiller, makesure you read thefollowing

Sections in this Manual,as well as the

separateEngineOwner's Manual:

* Section 1: "Safety"

• Section 3: "Featuresand Controls"

• Section 4: "Operation"

FeaturesandControls

Before operating your machine,

carefully read and understand oil

safety, controls and operating instruc-

tions in this Manual, the separate

Engine Owner's Manual, and on the

decalson the machine.

Failure to follow these instructionscan

resultin serious personalinjury.

Introduction

This section describes the location and

function of the controls on your tiller.

Refer to the following section

"Operation" for detailedoperating

instructions.

Practice usingthese controls, with the

engine shut off, until you understand the

operation of the controls andfeel

confident with eachof them.

IMPORTANT:Refer to the separate

engine manufacturer's EngineOwner's

Manualfor information about the

controls on the engine.

Wheel Drive Pins

Never allow either of the wheels to be

in the FREEWHEELposition when the

engine is running, Always put both

wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position

beforestartingthe engine.

Failure to comply could cause loss of

tiller control, property damage, or

personalinjury.

Eachwheel is equipped with a Wheel

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

securesthe wheel to the wheel shaft (B).

Thewheels can be positioned in either a

WHEELDRIVEor a FREEWHEELmode.

Forward Reverse Clutch

ClutchBail Control(Models

12209/12210)

ulator

Adjustment

DrivePin

(on eachwheel)

Figure3-1: Featuresand controls(5.5HP Model shown)

Beforestarting the engine, put both

wheels in the WHEELDRIVEposition by

inserting theWheel Drive Pins through

thewheel hubs and the wheelshaft. This

"locks" the wheels to the wheelshaft,

causing thewheels to turn when either

the Forward Clutch Bailor the Reverse

Clutch Control (Models 12209/1221O)is

engaged.

Usethe FREEWHEELmodeonly when the

engine is not running. In FREEWHEEL,

the WheelDrive Pinsare placedonly

through the holes in the wheel shaft (not

the wheel hubs), thus allowing the wheels

to turn freely whenthe tiller is pushedor

pulled by hand,

To Place theWheels in WHEELDRIVEor

FREEWHEEL:

Do not place the tiller on its side when

changing the wheel drive positions as

doing so could result in gasoline

leakingfromthe fuel tank°

Failure to follow this instructioncould

result in personal injury or property

damage.

1. Stop the engine, disconnect the spark

plugwire from the spark plug and allow

the engineto cool,

2. Raiseone wheel off the ground and

placea sturdy support under the

transmission.

3. Removethe hairpin cotter (C, Figures

3-2 and 3-3) from the wheeldrive pin (A).

Section3: FeaturesandControls

4. FORWHEELDRIVEmode (Figure3-2):

Slidethe wheeloutward and align the

holes in the wheel hub (D, Figure3-2) and

the wheeIshaft (B). Insert the wheeldrive

pin (A) through the wheel hub andthe

wheelshaft. Securethe wheeldrive pin

with the hairpin cotter (C) by pushingthe

hairpin cotter in as far as it will go. Repeat

for the other wheeland then removethe

support from beneaththe transmission.

5. FORFREEWHEELmode (Figure3-3):

Slide the wheelinward and insert the

wheel drive pin (A, Figure3-3) only

through the hole in the wheelshaft (B).

Securethe wheeldrive pin with the

hairpin cotter (C)by pushingthe hairpin

cotter in as far as it will go. Repeatfor the

other wheel andthen remove the support

from beneaththe transmission.

0 1

Figure3.2: WHEELDRIVEposiUon.

Figure3-3: FREEWHEELposition.

Beforestartingthe engine, be surethat

bothwheels are in the WHEELDRIVE

position. See "Wheel Drive Pins" for

instructions.

Engagingthe ForwardClutchBailor the

ReverseClutchControl(if so equipped)

when the wheels are not in the WHEEL

DRIVEpositioncould allew the tines to

rapidly propel the tiller forward or

backward.

Failure to comply could cause loss of

tiller control, property damage, or

personalinjury.

Forward Clutch Bail

TheForwardClutchBail(E,Figure3-4)

controlstheengagementofforwarddrive

tothewheelsandtines.

To Operatethe ForwardClutchBail:

1. Putthe wheels in the WHEELDRIVE

position(seethe "WARNING" statement

above).

2. Lift and hold the bail against the

handlebar. Thewheels and tines will

rotate in a forward direction.

3. Releasethe bail to disengage(stop)

the wheels and tines. All forward motion

will stop (the engine will continue to run).

Figure3-4:AllmodelshaveaFonverdClutch

Bail(E). OnlyModets1220971_I0havethe

ReverseClutchControl(F).

ReverseClutchControl(Models

12209/12210 only)

The ReverseClutch Control (F, Figure3-4)

controls the engagementof reversedrive

to the wheels and tines. Thisreversing

feature is usedfor maneuveringthe

tiller only- neverengagethetines in

the groundwhile goinginthe reverse

direction.

To Operatethe Reverse ClutchControl:

• Useextremecautionwhen reversing

or pullingthe machinetowardsyou.

Lookbehindtoavoidobstacles.

• Neverattempttotill in reverse.

Failure to follow this warning could

result in personal injury or property

damage.

1. Putthe wheels in the WHEELDRIVE

position (seethe "WARNING"statement

atthe left).

2. Stop all tiller motion by releasingthe

Forward Clutch Bail.

3. Lift up the handlebaruntil the tines

clearthe ground, look behindyou to avoid

any obstacles,and then pull the reverse

clutch control knobout. The wheelsand

tines will rotate in a reversedirection.

4. Releasethe reverseclutch control

knob to disengage (stop) the wheelsand

tines. All reversemotion will stop (the

engine will continue to run).

Section3: FeaturesandControls

DepthRegulatorLever

This lever (G,Figure3-5) controls the

tilling depth of the tines. Pull the lever

straight back and slideit up or down to

engagethe notched height settings.

Thehighest notch (leverall theway down)

raisesthe tines approximately 1-1/2" off

the ground. This "travel" setting allows

thetiller to be moved without the tines

digging into the ground. Also usethis

setting when starting the engine.

Move theleverupwardto increasethe

tilling depth. The lowest notch allows a

tilling depth of approximately 6",

depending on soil conditions.

Forbestresults, alwaysbegintilling at

o veryshallow depthsettingand

gradually increasethe tilling depth.

Travel ,_G

Position

Figure3-5: DepthRegulatorLever (G).

HandlebarHeightAdjustment

Thehandlebar height is adjustableto

three different settings (seeFigure3-6).

Asa general rule,adjust the handlebars

sothey areat waist levelwhen the tines

are 3"-4"into the soil.

ToAdjusttheHandlebars:

1. Stopthe engine, disconnect the spark

plug wire from the spark plug and allow

the engineto cool.

2. Removethe screws, Iockwashersand

nuts, reposition the handlebars,and

reinstall the hardware.

Figure3-6:Handlebarheightadjustment.

ENGINECONTROLS

Referto the engine manufacturer's Engine

Owner's Manual (included in the tiller lit-

eraturepackage)to identify the controls

on your engine.

IMPORTANT:The control for stopping the

engine is located on the engine.

• Do notattempttotill toodeeplytoo

quickly.Graduallyworkdownto

deepertilling depths.

• Place the Depth Regulator Lever in

the "travel" position before starting

the engine. This position prevents

the tines from touching the ground

until youare readyto begintilling.

Failure to follow this warning could

result in personal injury or property

damage.

Operation

Before operating your machine,

carefully read and understandall 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 instructionscan

result inseriouspersonalinjury.

ReverseClutchControl

- Models12209/12210

(knobonbackofbracket)

ForwardClutchBail

j DepthRegulatorLever

INTRODUCTION

Readthis Section of the manual thor-

oughly beforeyou start the engine. Then,

take the time to familiarize yourself with

the basic operation of the tiller before

using it in the garden. Findan open, level

area and practice using thetiller controls

without the tines engaging the soil (put

tines in "travel" setting). Onlyafter

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 EngineOwner's

Manual).

1. Changeengineoil afterfirst 2 hours of

new engine operation.

2. Checkfor loose or missing hardware

on unit. Tightenor replaceas needed.

3. Checktension on forward drive belt

after first 2 hours of operation.

4. Checktransmission gear oiI levelafter

first 2 hours of operation.

RecoilStarter

Figure4-1

STARTINGANDSTOPPING

THEENGINE

Pra-StartChecklist

Makethe following checks and perform

thefollowing services before starting the

engine.

1. Readthe"Safety" and "Controls"

Sections in this Manual. Readthe

separateEngineOwner's Manual provided

bythe engine manufacturer.

2. Checkthat the wheels are in the

WHEELDRIVEposition (wheel pins must

bethrough thewheel hubs and thewheel

shaft holes).

3. Checkunit for looseor missing

hardware. Service asrequired.

4. Checkengine oil level, See Engine

Owner's Manual.

5. Checkthat all safety guards and

coversare in place.

6. Checkair cleanerand engine cooling

system. SeeEngineOwner's Manual.

7. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.

- WheelDrive Pin

(oneachwheel)

GASOLINEIS HIGHLYFLAMMABLEAND

ITS VAPORSAREEXPLOSIVE.

Follow gasoline safety rules in this

Manual (see Section 1) and in the

separateEngineOwner'sManual.

Failure to follow gasoline safety

instructions can result in serious

personalinjuryand propertydamage.

8. Fillthe fuel tank with gasoline

according to the directions in the separate

EngineOwner's Manual. Follow all

instructions and safety rules carefully.

Section4: Operation

Starting the Engine

Thefollowing stepsdescribe howto start

and stop the engine. Do notattemptto

engagethe tinesor wheels until you

haveread all ofthe operatinginstruc-

tions inthis Section. Alsoreview

thesafetyrules in Section1: "Safety"

andthe tiller andengine controls

informationin Section3: "Features and

Controls."

To help prevent serious

personal injury or damage to

equipment:

*Before starting engine, put both

wheels in the WHEELDRIVEposition.

Never have the wheels in the

FREEWHEEL position when the

engine is running. Whenthe 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

ClutchBail (all Models) and Reverse

Clutch Control (Models 12200/12210

only) in neutral (disengaged)

positionsbyreleasinglevers.

• Never ruff engine indoors or in

enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.

Engine exhaust contains carbon

monoxide, an odorless and deadly

gas.

• Avoid engine muffler and nearby

areas. Temperaturesin these areas

may exceed150OF.

1. Completethe "Pre-Start Checklist" on

the previouspage.

2. Put the wheels in the WHEELDRIVE

position (see"Wheel Drive Pins" in

Section 3).

3. Putthe Depth Regulator Leverin the

"travel" position (lever all the way down)

so that thetines are clear of the ground.

4. Releaseall controls on the tiller.

5. If engine is equipped with a fuel valve,

turn valve to open positionas instructed

in the separateEngine Owner's Manual,

6. Put ignition switch and!orthrottle

control leveron engine in "ON", "RUN",

"FAST"or "START" position as instructed

in theseparate EngineOwner's Manual.

7. Choke or primeengine as instructed in

the separateEngineOwner's Manual,

8. Placeone hand on thefuel tank to

stabilizethe unit whenyou pullthe starter

handle. Usethe recoil starter rope to start

the engine asinstructed in the separate

EngineOwner'sManual. Whenengine

starts, gradually move choke lever(on

enginesso equipped) to "NOCHOKE",

"CHOKEOFF"or "RUN" position,

9. Usethe "FAST"throttle speedsetting

when tilling.

Keepawayfrom rotatingtines. Rotating

tines will causeinjury.

Stoppingthe EngineandTiller

1. To stop the wheels and fines, release

the ForwardClutch Bail or the Reverse

ClutchControl (on Models 12209/12210)

- whichever control is in use,

2. To stop the engine, putthe ignition

switch and/or thethrottle control lever on

the engine in the "OFF"or "STOP"

position.

OPERATINGTHE TILLER

Thefollowing pagesprovide guidelines to

using your tiller effectively and safely in

various gardening applications. Besure

to read "Tilling Tips & Techniques" in this

Section beforeyou actually putthe tines

into the soil.

This is a traditional "standard-rotating--

tine" (SRT)tiller with forward rotating

tines. It operates completely differently

from "counter-rotating-tine" (CRT)tillers

or from front-tine tillers.

1. Followthe "Pre-Start Checklist" onthe

previouspage. Besurethat the wheels

are in the WHEELDRIVEposition.

2. Putthe Depth Regulator Leverin the

"travel" position (lever ail the way down)

sothat the tines are clearof the ground.

Usethis position when practicing with

your tiller or when moving to or from the

garden. Whenyou are readyto begin

tilling, you must movethe Depth

Regulator Leverto the desired depth

setting (see"Tilling Tips & Techniques"),

3. Startthe engine and allow it to warm

up. When warm, putthrottle control in

fast speedsetting,

Figure4-2: Useone handtoguide tiller

whenmovingforward.

4. For forward motion of the wheels and

tines:

(a) Pull the Forward ClutchBail up and

hold it against the handlebar. Release

the bail to step forward motion of the

wheels and tines.

(b) Asthe tiller moves forward, relaxand

let thewheels pull the unit along while

the tines dig. Walk behind and a little

to one sideof the tiller. Usea light

butsecure grip with one hand on the

handlebars,but keepyour arm loose.

SeeFigure4-2. Letthe tiller move

aheadat its own paceand do not push

down on the handlebarsto try and

force the tiller to dig deeper- this

takesweight off thewheels, reduces

traction, and causesthetines to try

and propelthe tiller.

Section4: Operation

Donot pushdownonthehandlebarsto

tryto make the tiller till moredeeply.

This preventsthe wheelsfrom holding

the tiller backand canallowthe tines

to rapidly propelthetiller forward,

whichcould resultin lossof control,

propertydamage, or personalinjury.

5. For reversemotion ofthe wheels and

tines (Models 12209/12210 only):

(a) Look behind and exercisecaution

when operating in reverse. Donottill

while in reverse.

(b) Stop all forward motion before

reversing. Lift thehandlebarswith one

hand until thetines are off the ground

and then pull the ReverseClutch

Control knob out to engagereverse

motion (seeFigure4-3). To stop

reverse motion, let go of the Reverse

Clutch Control knob.

NOTE:To movethe Models 12208/12217

in reversefor short distances, usethe

following procedure:

(a) Releasethe Forward Clutch Bail.

(b) Tilt the handlebarslightly upwarduntil

the tines are out of the soil.

right wheel takesa "step" backward.

Nextmove the handlebarto the right so

the left wheeltakesa "step" backward.

(d) Repeatto "walk" the tiller rearward, if

longer distances needto becovered in

reverse,shut off the engine,then place

the two wheels in FREEWHEEL,

6. To Turn the Tiller Around:

(a) Practiceturning the tiller in a level,

open area. Bevery careful to keep

your feet and legs awayfrom the tines.

(b) To make a turn, lift the handlebars

until the engine andtines are balanced

over the wheels (Figure4-4). The

tines must be out of the ground while

turning the tiller.

Figure4-3: Raise tinesoffgroundand look

behind when movingin reverse. (Models

12209 and 12210 havepoweredreverse.

Models 12208 and 12217 canbe "fish-

tailed" backwardmanually fora short

distance, or rolled backwardwhenwheels

are in FREEWHEEL.)

on the handlebarto move the tiller in

the direction of theturn (Figure4-5).

After completing the turn, slowly lower

the tines into the soil to resumetilling.

StoppingtheTiller andEngine

1. To stop the wheels andtines, release

the Forward Clutch Bail or the Reverse

ClutchControl (on Models 12209/1221O)

-whichever control is in use.

2. To stop the engine,put the ignition

switch and/or the throttle control leveron

the engine in the "OFF"or "STOP"

position.

Beforefilling, contactyourtelephoneor

utilities companyand inquire if under-

ground equipmentor lines are used in

your area. Their representativewill be

glad 1oanswer your questionsand tell

you it any of their equipment or lines

are buried underground on your

property.

Turning the Tiller Around

Figure4-4: Tobeginturn, lift handlebars

until engineand tines are balancedover

wheels. Be suretinesare out ofground,

Figure4-5: Withtiller balancedover

wheels(and tines outofthe ground),

push handlebarssidewaystoturntiller.

Section4: Operation

TillingTips& Techniques

Letthetiller dothe work

• While tilling, relaxand Ietthe wheels

pull the tiller along while the tines do

the digging. Walk on the sidethat is

not yet finished (to avoid making foot-

prints in the freshly tiiled soil) and

lightly, but securelygrip the handlebar

with just one hand. SeeFigure4-2.

• Avoid pushing down on the handlebars

in an attempt to force thetiller to dig

deeper. Doing sotakes the weight off

the poweredwheels,causing them to

losetraction. 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 casesthis won't be

necessaryat all.)

Tilling depths

• Avoid trying to dig too deeply too

quickly, especiallywhenbusting sod or

tilling soil that hasn't beentilled for

some time. Useshallow depth settings

(only an inch or two deep) for the first

passesthrough the gardenarea. With

each succeedingpass,adjust the depth

regulatorto dig another inch or two

deeper. (Watering the garden areaa

few days prior to tilling will make tilling

easier, aswill ietting the newly worked

soil set for a day or two beforemaking

a final, deeptilling pass.)

•When cultivating (breakingup the

surfacesoil around plantsto help

destroy weeds),usevery shallow depth

settings to preventinjuryto plantswhose

roots oftengrow closeto the surface, if

needed,lift upon the handlebarsslightly

to preventthetinesfrom diggingtoo

deeply. Cultivatingona regularbasisnot

only eliminatesweeds,italso loosens

and aeratesthesoilfor better moisture

absorptionandfasterplantgrowth.)

Avoidtilling wet, soggysoil

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 heavyrainsto allow the soil

to dry beforetilling. Test the soil by

squeezing it into a ball. If it compresses

too easily, it istoo wet to till.

Avoid making footprints

When possible,walk on the untilledside

ofthe unit to avoidmakingfootprints in

the freshlytilled soil. Footprintscause

soil compactionthat can hamperroot

penetrationandcontributeto soil erosion.

They canalso "plant" unwantedweed

seedsbackinto the newlytilled soil.

Choosingcorrectwheel

andtine speeds

With experience,you will find the "just

right" tilling depthand tilling speedcorn

bination that is best for your garden.

Setthe engine throttle leverat a speedto

givethe engineadequatepowerand yet

allow it to operateatthe slowest possible

speed...atleast until you haveachieved

the maximum tiiiing depth you desire.

Fasterenginespeeds may bedesirable

when making final passesthrough the

seedbedor when cultivating. Selection of

the correct enginespeed, in relationto

the tilling depth, will ensurea sufficient

power levelto do the job without causinc

the engineto labor.

Suggestedtilling patterns

When preparing a seedbed,go overthe

same pathtwice in the first row, then

overlapone-half the tiller width on the

rest of the passes(seeFigure4-6).

When finished in one direction, makea

second passat a right angle asshown

in Figure4-7. Overlapeachpass for

best results (in very hard ground it

may take threeor four passesto thor-

oughly pulverizethe soil).

• If the garden sizewill not permit

[engthwiseand then crosswise tilling,

then overlapthe first passesby one-

half atiller width, followed by succes-

sive passesat one-quarter width (see

Figure4-8).

• With planning,you canallow enough

room betweenrows to cultivate (see

Figure4-9). Leaveroom for the hood

width, plus enough extra room for

future plant growth.

Figere 4-6 __

Figure4-7

ilUUlUUU UUl

Figure4-8

Figure4-9

Section4: Operation

TillingTips& Techniques

Clearingthe tines

Thetines havea self-clearing action

which helps to eliminate most tangling

of debris. However,occasionally dry

grass, stringy stalks or tough vines may

become tangled. Followthese proce-

dures to help avoidtangling and to clear

the tines, if necessary.

• To reducetangling, set the depth

regulator deepenough to get maximum

"chopping" action asthe tines chop the

material againstthe ground. Also, try

to till under crop residues or cover

crops while they are green,moist and

tender.

• While powercomposting, try swaying

the handlebarsfrom sideto side (about

6"to 12"). This "fishtailing" action

often clears thetines of debris.

• If tangling occurs on models equipped

with a powered reverse,lift the tines

out of the soil and run the tiller in

reversefor a few feet. This reversing

action should unwind a good deal of

debris.

• It may be necessaryto remove the

debris by hand (a pocketknife wilt help

you to cut awaythe material).

Beforeclearingthe tines byhand, stop

the engine, allow all moving parts to

stop and disconnect the spark plug

wire.

Failure to follow this warning could

resultin personalinjury.

Tilling onslopes

If you must garden on sloping ground,

pleasefollow two very important guide-

lines:

1. Till only on moderate slopes, neveron

steep inclines 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 areaand also leavesroom for

cultivating.

IMPORTANT: Whentilling on slopes, be

sure the correct oil level is maintained in

the engine (check every one-halfhour of

operation). The incline of the slope will

causethe oil to slant away from its

normal leveland this can starveengine

_artsof required lubrication. Keepthe

engine oil levelat the full point atall

times!

A. Tilling up and downslopes:

• To keepsoil erosion to a minimum, be

sure to add enough organic matter to

the soil so that it hasgood moisture-

holding texture and try to avoid leaving

footprints or wheel marks.

• Whentilling vertically, try to makethe

first passuphill asthe tiller digs more

deeply going uphill than it does

downhill. In soft soil or weeds,you

may haveto lift the handlebarsslightly

while going uphill. Whengoing

downhill, overlapthe first pass by

about one-half the width of thetiller.

B. TerraceGardening:

• When a slope istoo steep or too short

for vertical tilling, it may benecessary

to till across the slope and create

terraced rows. Terracesare rows that

are cut into the side of a slope, creating

a narrow, but flat area on which to

plant.

• Ona long slope,you can makeseveral

terraces, one belowthe other.

• Terracesshould be only 2-to-3 feet

wide. Digging too far into the side of

the slope will exposepoor subsoil that

is unproductivefor plants.

• To createa terrace, start atthe top of

the slopeand work down. Go backand

forth acrossthe first row as shown in

Figure4-10.

• Eachsucceeding lowerterrace is

started bywalking below the terrace

you're preparing. Foraddedstability of

the tiller, alwayskeepthe uphill wheel

in the soft, newlytilled soil. Donot till

the last 12" or more of the downhill

outside edge of eachterrace. This

untilled strip helps preventsthe

terracesfrom breakingapart and

washing downhill. It also provides a

walking path betweenrows.

O _Af _ _p_ T

Figure4-1Q

C. Tilling acrossslopeswithoutusing

terraces:

• If vertical or terracing gardening aren't

practical for you, then you cantill

laterally across a slope. We don't

really recommendthis method as it can

create unsurefooting and invites soil

erosion.

• As interrace gardening, start atthe top

of the slopeand overlapthefirst pass

by halfthe width ofthe tiller. Foradded

stability of thetiller, always keepthe

uphill wheel inthesoft, newly tilled soil.

Section4: Operation

POWERCOMPOSTING

Powercomposting simply meanstilling

under and burying inthe soil all manner

of organic matter such ascrop residues,

leaves,grass clippings and cover crops.

This material will decomposeduring the

non-growing seasonand add important

natural nutrients to the soil.

When power composting,do not keep

the Depth Regulator Lever at a deep

settingifthetiller jumpsor bucks+

If jumpingor buckingoccurs, movethe

Depth RegulatorLever downto one of

the shallowersettings and then slowly

increase the tilling depth on later

passes+

Failure to complycould result in loss

of tiller control, property damage or

personalinjury.

Thefirst placeto begin is with crop

residues such as leftover vines, stalks,

stems and roots. Power compost these

crop residuesassoon asthey finish

bearing. Thesooner this is done,the

better, astender green matter iseasierto

till under. Usethe deepestdepth

regulator setting possible without causing

the engineto labor or the tiller to jump

ahead.

Standing cornstalks of reasonableheight

can be power composted. Pushing over

(but not uprooting) cornstalks will often

make it easierfor your tiller to chop up

the stalks. Keepthe tines clearof

excessivetangling by "fishtailing" or fre-

quently using reverse. Makeseveral

passes,then return afew days laterto

finish off anyremaining stubble.

After tilling under crop residues, add more

organic matter such as leaves,grass

clippings andeven kitchen scraps. When

tilled +ntothe soil, this organic matter will

decomposeand add evenmore important

nutrients to the soil.

After power composting, you may want to • Position the !oadingvehicle so that the

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, ryegrass, grain,

or kaleand thent++lit into the soil prior to

the planting season.

LOADINGANDUNLOADINGTHE

TILLER

Loadingand unloadingthe tiller into a

vehicle is potentially 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.

• Before loading or unloading, stop the

engine,wait for all parts to stop mov+ng,

disconnect the spark plug wire and let

the eng+neand muffler cool.

• Thetiller is too heavy and bulkyto lift

safely by one person. Two or more

people should sharethe load.

rampangle isasflat as possible (the

less incline to the ramp, the better).

Turn the vehicle'sengine off and apply

its parking brake.

• When going up ramps, stand in the

normal operating positionandpush the

tiller aheadof you. Havea personat

eachside to turn the wheels.

•When going down ramps, walk

backwardwith the tiller following you.

Keepalert for anyobstacles behindyou.

Position a person at eachwheelto

control the speedof thetiller. Never go

down ramps tilter-first, asthe tiller could

tip forward.

• Usewooden blocks to placeon the

downhill sideof thewheels if you need

to stop thetiller from rolling down the

ramp. Also, usethe blocks to temporar-

ily keepthe tiller in placeon the ramps

(if necessary),and to chock the wheels

in placeafter the tiller is in thevehicle.

• Whenthe tiller is in thevehicle, prevent

it from rolling by engagingthe wheels in

theWHEELDRIVEposition. Chockthe

wheels with blocks and securelytie the

tiller down.

• Usesturdy ramps and manually (engine

shut off) roll the tiller into and out of the

vehicle. Two or more people are needed

to do this.

• Rampsmust be strong enough to

support the combined weight of the tiller

and anyhandlers. The ramps should

provide good traction to prevent

slipping; they should haveside railsto

guide thetiller along the ramps; and they

should havea looking deviceto secure

them to the vehicle.

•The handlersshould wear sturdy

footwear that will helpto prevent

slipping.

Maintenance

Before inspecting, cleaning or

servicingthemachine, shut offengine,

wait for all moving partsto come to a

complete stop, disconnectspark plug

wire and move wire away from spark

plug. Remove ignition key on electric

startmodels.

Failure tofollow theseinstructionscan

result in serious personal injury or

propertydamage.

REQUIRED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Before Every Every As

PROCEDURE Each 10 30 Noted

Use Hours Hours

Checkengineoil level

Cleanengine

Checkdrive belt tension

Checknuts and bolts

Changeengine oil

Lubricate tiller

Service engineair cleanersystem

Checkgearoil levelin

transmission

Checktines for wear

Checktire pressure

(pneumatic tires only)

Service spark plug

And every5

operating hours

* Changemore frequently in dusty or dirty conditions. Changeafter first 2 hours of

break-in operation.

t Checkafterfirst2hoursofbreak-inoperation.

• SeeEngineOwner's Manual for service intervals andinstructions.

Section5: Maintenance

Beforeinspecting,cleaningor servicingthe machine, shutoff engine,wait for all movingpartsto come

to a completestop,disconnectspark plug wire and movewire away from spark plug. Remove ignition

keyon electricstartmodels.

Failuretofollow theseinstructionscanresultin seriouspersonalinjuryorpropertydamage.

TILLERLUBRICATION CHECKFOROILLEAKS A.ToChecktheTransmission

Proper lubrication of the tiller isan GearOil Level:

essential part of your maintenance

program. After every 10 operating

hours, oil or greasethe lubrication points

shown in Figure5-1 and described

below.

Usea good quality lubricating oil (#30

weight engine oil is suitable) and a good

quality general purpose grease(grease

that hasa metal lubricant is preferred, if

available),

* Removewheels, cleanwheelshaft (A,

Fig.5-1) and apply thin coating of

greaseto shaft.

• Greaseback,front and sides of depth

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

• Removetines, cleantine shafts (C, Fig.

5-1) and inspectfor rust, rough spots

or burrs (especiallyaround holes). File

or sandsmooth and coat endsof shaft

with grease.

• Oilthe threads on the handlebar height

adjustment screws and the handlebar

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

Figure5-1

Beforeeach use,checkyour tiller for

signs of an oil leak- usually a dirty, oily

accumulation either on the unit or on the

floor whereit has beenparked.

A littie seepagearound a cover or oil seal

is usually not a causefor alarm. However,

if the oil drips overnight then immediate

attention is neededas ignoring a leakcan

result in severetransmission damage.

If acover is leaking, checkfor loose

screws. If the screws are tight, a new

gasketor oiI seal may be required. If the

leakisfrom around a shaft and oil seal,

the oil sealprobably needsto be replaced.

Seeyour authorized dealeror contact the

factory for serviceor advice.

IMPORTANT:Neveroperatethe tiller ifthe

transmissionis low on oil. Checkthe oil

levelafter every 30 hours of operation and

wheneverthere is anyoil leakage.

CHECK HARDWARE

Checkfor looseor missing hardwareafter

every10 operating hours. Tighten or

replacehardwarebeforeusing the tiller.

Besureto checkthe screws underneath

the tiller hood (lift the hoodflap) that

securethe transmission cover andthe

DepthRegulator Leverto thetransmis-

sion.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE(Models

with pneumatic tires)

Checkthe air pressure in both tires.

Deflateor inflate both tires evenly from

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

Besurethat bothtires havethe sameair

pressureor the unit will tend to pull to

one side.

TRANSMISSIONGEAROILSERVICE

Checkthe transmission gear oil levelafter

every30 hours of operation or whenever

you notice any oil leak. Operatingthe

tiller when the transmission is lowon oil

canresult in severe damage.

1. Checkthe gearoil levelwhen the trans-

mission is cool. Gearoii will expandin

warm operating temperatures and this

expansion will provide an incorrect oil

level reading.

2. With the tiller on levelground, pull the

Depth Regulator Leverall the way up.

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

from thetransmission housing and locate

the main drive shaft situated insidethe

housing.

4. Thegear oil level iscorrect if the gear

oil is approximately halfwayup the sideof

the main drive shaft.

5. If the gear eli level is low, add gearoil

as described next. If the gear oil levelis

okay,securely replacethe oil fill plug,

IMPORTANT:Do not operatethe tiller if

the gear oil level is low. Doing so will

result in severe damageto thetransmis-

sion components.

6. If adding only a few ounces of gear

oil, useAPI ratedGL-4 or GL-5 gear oil

havinga viscosity of SAE140,SAE85W-

140 or SAE80W-90. If refilling an empty

transmission, useonly GL-4 gearoil

havinga viscosity of SAE85W-140 or

SAE140.

IMPORTANT: Donot useautomatic

transmission fluid or motor oil in the

transmission.

7. While checking frequently to avoid

overfilling, slowly add gear oil into the oil

fill hole until it reachesthe halfway point

on the drive shaft.

8. Securely replacethe oil fill plug.

B. To DraintheTransmissionGearOil:

Thetransmission gearoil does not need

to bechanged unless it has beencontam-

inated with dirt, sandor metal particles.

1. Draingasoline from the fuel tank or

run the engine until thefuel tank is

empty. See"DANGER"statement that

follows.

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Troy-Bilt 12217 Owner's manual

Brand: Troy-Bilt

Model: 12217

Category: Mini tillers

Type: Owner's manual

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