MTD 21A-410-022 - Manual (Page 8)

To operate the tiller:
1. Select the depth stake setting.
2. Start engine as instructed on pages 6 and 7.
3. Move gear selection handle to one of the forward
modes or reverse.
A WARNING: Do not move the gear selec­
tion handle with the wheels or tines fully
engaged. Make certain the unit is stopped
completely before changing the gear
selection.
4. Squeeze the clutch handle against the handle to
engage the wheels and tines.
NOTE: Make certain the gear selection indicator is
correctly positioned before engaging the clutch
handle. If it is between gears, the engine will stall.
To transport tiller, do not engage the tines. Select the
wheel drive only.
LUBRICATION
A
WARNING: Do not push down on the han­
dles so that the wheels are lifted off the
ground while using the tine drive, or the
tiller could move backward and cause
personal injury.
For best results, it is recommended the garden be
tilled twice (lengthwise, then widthwise) to pulverize
the soil.
ADJUSTMENTS
HANDLE ADJUSTMENT
The handle height may be adjusted. Refer to the Con­
trol section for details of handle adjustment.
BELT TENSIDN ADJUSTMENT
Periodic adjustment of the belt tension may be
required due to normal stretch and wear on the belt.
Adjustment is needed if the tines or wheels seem to
hesitate while turning, but the engine maintains the
same speed.
To adjust the tension on the belt, refer to final clutch
adjustment in Assembly Instructions.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
A WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine while the engine Is running,
(e.g. carburetor), disengage all clutches
and tines. Keep clear of all moving parts.
Be careful of heated surfaces and muffler.
Never make unnecessary adjustments. The factory
settings are correct for most applications. If adjust­
ments are needed, refer to the separate engine
manual packed with your tiller.
Ti’ansmlsslon—^The transmission is pre-lubricated
and sealed at the factory. It requires no checking
uniess the transmission is disassembled. To fill with
grease, lay the right half of the transmission on its
side. Add 40 ounces of Benalene 920 grease.
Assemble the left half to it. This grease can be
obtained at your nearest authorized dealer. Order part
number 737-0300.
Clutch Handle—Lubricate the pivot point on the
clutch handle and the cable at least once a season
with light oil. The control must operate freely in both
directions.
Pivot Points—Lubricate all pivot points and linkages
at least once a season with light oil.
Tine Shaft—Remove tines and lubricate tine shaft at
least once a season with light oil.
Wheel
Shaft—Remove wheel assemblies and
lubricate at least once a season.
MAINTENANCE
A WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground It against the engine
before performing any repairs or mainte­
nance.
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Service air cleaner every ten hours under normal con­
ditions. Clean every hour under extremely dusty condi­
tions. Poor engine performance and flooding usually
indicates that the air cleaner should be serviced. To
service the air cleaner, refer to the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
IMPORTANT: Never run your engine without air
cleaner completely assembled.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
every 25 hours of engine operation. Spark plug
replacement is recommended at the start of each tiller
season; check engine manual for correct plug type
and gap specification.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to per­
mit proper air circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all dirt and
combustible debris from muffler area.
CLEANING THE TINE AREA
Clean the underside of the tine shield after each use.
The dirt washes off the tines easier if washed off
immediately instead of after it dries.
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