MTD 340 Thru 390 - Manual (Page 7)

7
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and move it away
from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Engage and release the tine engagement handle,
then the reverse tine engagement lever (model
series 390 only). If an excessive noise is heard
when releasing either the tine drive clutch handle or
lever, the cable may be too loose. Adjust either the
forward or reverse clutch cable by loosening the
hex nut, threading the rod into the cable one or two
turns, then retightening the nut.
• With tine engagement handle in neutral (released)
as shown in Figure 6, pull the starter rope several
times. The tines should not turn. If they turn
forward, loosen the hex nut on the forward cable
(underneath the handle assembly). If they turn
toward the rear (model series 390 only), loosen the
hex nut on the reverse cable (above the handle
assembly). Unthread the rod from the cable 2 or 3
turns. Retighten the hex nut, and check again for
correct adjustment. See Figure 6.
Figure 6
SECTION 3: KNOW YOUR TILLER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the
machine and in this manual before
operating.
Throttle Control
The throttle control lever is located on the engine. It
controls the engine speed and stops the engine. See
Figure 7.
Choke Lever (Model Series 340/390)
The choke lever is located above the throttle control. It
is used to enrich the fuel mixture when starting a cold
engine. See Figure 7.
Primer Button (Model 345)
The primer button is located behind the air cleaner. It is
used to enrich the fuel mixture in the carburetor when
starting a cold engine. See Figure 7.
Forward Tine Engagement Handle
The forward tine engagement handle is located
beneath the tiller handle. Squeezing the handle up
against the tiller handle engages the tines. Release the
handle to stop the tines. See Figure 8.
Reverse Tine Drive Clutch Lever
(Model Series 390 Only)
The reverse tine drive clutch lever is located on top of
the handle panel. Pull the lever to the rear to move the
tines in reverse. Release the lever to stop the reverse
tine drive. See Figure 8.
NOTE: Never engage both the forward and reverse tine
drives at the same time. Engaging both forward and
reverse tine drives at the same time could damage the
belt drives and cause the engine to stall.
Figure 7
Model Series 390 Model Series 340 thru 345
Reverse Tine
Engagement Lever
Forward Tine
Engagement Lever
Choke
Fast
Stop
Run
Briggs and Stratton Intek
Briggs and Stratton Standard
Choke
Throttle Control
Throttle
Primer
Fast
Stop
Air
Cleaner
Control
Tecumseh
Throttle
Fast
Stop
Control
Throttle
Fast
Stop
Control
Choke
Honda