MTD 219-381-000 - Manual (Page 11)

When tilling, leave approximately 8 inches of un­
tilled soil between the first and second tilling paths,
then make the third path between the first and sec­
ond as shown in figure 20. In some soils, the
desired depth is obtained the first time over the
garden. In other soils, the desired depth is obtained
by going over the garden two or three times. In the
latter case, the depth stake should be lowered
before each succeeding pass over the garden.
Passes should be made across the length and
width of the garden alternately. Rocks which are
turned up should be removed from the garden
area.
3. Handle Pressure: Further control of tilling depth
and travel speed can be obtained by variation of
pressure on the handles. A downward pressure on
the handles will reduce the working depth and in­
crease the forward speed. An upward pressure on
the handles will increase the working depth and
reduce the forward speed. The type of soil and
working conditions will determine the actual set­
ting of the depth stake and the handle pressure
required.
4. Throttle Control: The throttle control lever adjusts
the engine speed and stops the engine. With the
throttle control knob pushed completely forward,
the carburetor is in START position. Pulling the
throttle control back slightly adjusts the engine
speed to FAST. Pulling the throttle back further
reduces the engine speed to SLOW. Pull the throt­
tle completely back to stop the engine.
Use maximum engine speed for deep tilling. Move
the throttle control to SLOW when transporting the
tiller.
TRANSPORTING THE TILLER
To transport the tiller to or from the garden, pivot the
depth stake forward so it engages the tailpiece and
locks out of the way. See figure 19. With the throttle
control in SLOW position, the unit will move under its
own power, without damaging grass areas as long as
it is allowed to move freely. If the operator holds back,
it will start to dig.
CULTIVATING
For cultivating, a two to three inch depth is desirable.
Setting the wheels and depth stake so that the wheels
are about two inches above the ground while the tiller
is resting on the tines and depth stake will allow the
machine to work at cultivating depth. The throttle
should be set to control forward movement to a slow
walking speed. With the outer tines installed, the work­
ing width of the machine is 26 or 28 inches. See figures
21 and 22. For cultivation, this may be reduced to 14
inches by removing the outer tines. See figure 22.
FIGURE 22.
Tilling width can be increased from 26 inches to 28
inches by removing the clevis pin and hairpin clip and
sliding the outer tines out one inch, and replacing the
clevis pin and hairpin clip. See figure 23.
1 1