EarthQuake 5055 6 HP BRIGGS CRT Rototillers Instruction Manual

Earthquake 5055 6 HP BRIGGS CRT Rototillers

Product Information

The product is a CRT rototiller manufactured by Ardisam, Inc. It is available in multiple models with different engine types and horsepower:

• 5055 : 6 HP Briggs engine
• 5155 : 6 HP Briggs engine
• 6065VE : 6.5 HP Viper Electric engine
• R5055H : 5.5 HP Honda engine

The rototiller is designed for tilling soil in gardening and landscaping applications.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Registration:
   • Record the model number, serial number, engine serial number, date of purchase, and place of purchase for future reference.
   • Fill out and mail the registration card included in the parts packet within two weeks of purchase to validate the warranty.
2. Warranty:
   • The rototiller is covered by a one-year limited warranty by Ardisam, Inc.
   • The warranty covers defects in material or workmanship.
   • What is covered under warranty:
   • Defects resulting from normal use.
   • What is not covered under warranty:
   • Defects arising from misuse, alteration, negligence, or accident.
   • Products that have been repaired or altered outside the factory.
   • The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser.
   • Ensure the warranty card is properly filled out and returned to Ardisam, Inc. at the time of purchase.
3. Safety:
   • The owner is responsible for the accurate assembly and safe and effective use of the rototiller.
   • Read all the safety instructions and recommendations in the manual to avoid injury and machine damage.
   • Pay attention to special messages throughout the manual that highlight safety concerns, machine damage, and operating and servicing information.
   • Operate the tiller according to the safety instructions and recommendations.
   • Familiarize yourself with the controls and learn how the drive safety control lever operates.
   • Use the safety device to quickly stop the wheels and tires in an emergency.
4. Preparation:
   • Use an approved fuel container for fueling.
   • Never add fuel to a running or hot engine.

INTRODUCTION
Thank You for purchasing an Earthquake® forward rotating rear-tine rototiller from Ardisam, Inc. We have worked to ensure that this rear-tine rototiller meets high standards for usability and durability. With proper care, your rototiller will provide many years of service. Please take the time to read this manual carefully to learn how to correctly operate and maintain your rototiller. This manual should be considered a permanent part of your rototiller. Due to continuous efforts to perfect our product, certain procedures and specifications are subject to change without notice. Congratulations on your investment in quality.

SAFETY
OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY
Accurate assembly and safe and effective use of the rototiller is the owner’s responsibility.

• Read and follow all safety instructions.
• C carefully follow all assembly instructions.
• Maintain the tiller according to directions and schedule included in this Earthquake operator’s manual.
• Ensure that anyone who uses the tiller is familiar with all controls and safety precautions.

SPECIAL MESSAGES
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention to potential safety concerns, machine damage as well as helpful operating and servicing information. Please read all the information carefully to avoid injury and machine damage.

NOTE : General information is given throughout the manual that may help the operator in the operation or service of the machine.

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Please read this section carefully. Operate the tiller according to the safety instructions and recommendations outlined here and inserted throughout the text. Anyone who uses this tiller must read the instructions and be familiar with the controls. Your tiller is equipped with a safety device that enables you to stop the wheels and tires quickly in an emergency. Learn how the drive safety control lever operates and how to control the tiller at all times.

This symbol points out important safety instructions which if not followed could endanger your safety. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this equipment.

• Do not allow children to operate this rototiller. Keep small children away from the area being tilled. Do not allow adults to operate the tiller without proper instruction. Preparation
• Dress appropriately when operating the tiller. Always wear sturdy footwear. Never wear sandals, sneakers, or open shoes, and never operate the tiller with bare feet. Do not wear loose clothing that might get caught in moving parts.
• Carefully inspect the area to be tilled and remove all foreign objects.
• Do not till above underground water lines, gas lines, electric cables, or pipes. Do not operate the tiller in soil with large rocks and foreign objects which can damage the equipment.
• Disengage all clutches and leave all control levers in the neutral position before starting the engine.
• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
  • Use an approved fuel container.
  • Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.
  • Fill the fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill the fuel tank indoors.
  • Replace the gasoline cap securely and clean up spilled fuel before restarting.
• • Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine is running

DANGER
DANGER INDICATES A serious injury or fatality will result if the safety instructions that follow this signal word are not obeyed.

WARNING
WARNING INDICATES A serious injury or fatality could result if the safety instructions that follow this signal word are not obeyed.

CAUTION:
CAUTION INDICATES YOU CAN OR YOUR EQUIPMENT CAN BE HURT IF THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS THAT FOLLOW THIS SIGNAL WORD ARE NOT OBEYED.

IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT INDICATES HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR PROPER ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR equipment.

WARNING :
You must read, and design d a d co simply with all safety and operating instructions in this manual before attempting to set up and operate your rotate later. Failure to comply with all safety and operating instructions can result in loss of machine control, serious personal injury to you and/or bystanders, and risk of equipment and property damage. The triangle in the text signifies important cautions or warnings that must be followed.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Operation

• Never operate the tiller without guards, covers, and hoods in place.

• Never start the engine or operate the tiller with the wheels in the free-wheel position. Make sure the wheel lock pins are engaged through the wheel hubs and wheel axle. The wheels act as a brake to keep the tiller at a controlled speed. Disengage wheel lock pins to permit free-wheeling only when the engine is stopped.

• Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from rotating parts. Keep clear of tiller tines at all times.

• Tines and wheels rotate when the tiller is engaged in forward or reverse– in forward, tines and wheels rotate when the drive safety control lever, labelled “FORWARD”, is pulled toward the handlebar. In reverse, wheels and tines rotate when the drive safety control lever, labelled “REVERSE”, is pulled toward the handlebar. Releasing the drive safety control levers to the neutral position stops the wheels and tires. Do not operate both drive safety control levers at the same time.

• Be extremely cautious when operating in reverse. Take extra care to avoid slipping or falling, and keep hands and feet clear of tines.

• Use extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, remove the wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the tiller for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the tiller.

• If vegetation clogs the tines, raise the handlebars to elevate the tines, and run the tiller in reverse. If this does not clean clogged vegetation from the tines, STOP THE ENGINE AND DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE before removing vegetation by and.

• The engine muffler will be hot from operation. Do not touch it with bare skin or a severe burn may result.

• If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

• Do not run the engine indoors; exhaust fumes are deadly.

• Do not overload the machine capacity by attempting to till too deep at too fast a rate.

• Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on slippery surfaces. Look behind and use care when backing.

• Never allow bystanders near the unit.

• Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer of the tiller.

• Never operate the tiller without good visibility or light.

• Be careful when tilling on hard ground. The tines may catch in the ground and propel the tiller backward. If this occurs, let go of the handlebars and do not restrain the machine.

• Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine unattended. Disengage all control levers, stop the engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, and make certain guards and shields are in place.

• When leaving the operating position for any reason:

  • shut off the engine.
  • wait for all moving parts to stop.

Maintenance and storage

• Keep machine, attachments, and accessories in safe working condition.
• Check shear bolts, engine mounting bolts, and other bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
• To prevent accidental starting, always disconnect and secure the spark plug wire from the spark plug before performing tiller maintenance.
• Never run the engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are deadly.
• Always allow the muffler to cool before filling the fuel tank.
• Never store equipment with gasoline in the tank inside a closed building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any building.
• Always refer to the operator’s guide instructions for important details if the tiller is to be stored for an extended period.

SAFETY DECALS
This rototiller unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manufacturing.

Although reading this manual and the safety instructions it contains will provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the tiller to remind you of this important information while you are operating the unit.

These important safety labels are illustrated below and are shown here to help familiarize you with the location and content of the
safety messages you will see as you perform normal tilling operations. Please review these labels now. If you have any questions regarding their meaning or how to comply with these instructions, reread the complete safety instruction text on the preceding pages, or contact your local dealer.

Should any of the safety labels become unreadable because of being worn, faded, or otherwise damaged during the use of your tiller, please use the part number information provided to order a replacement label from your local authorized dealer. The safety labels are easily applied and will act as a constant visual reminder to you, and others who may use the equipment. Follow the safety instructions necessary for the safe, effective operation of your rototiller.

Unpac King and Assembly
Your rototiller comes fully assembled except for a few parts. The following instructions will help you unpack your tiller and assemble and adjust your tiller’s depth regulator lever, cable tension and handlebar height. You will need 2- 9/16” wrenches.

Unpac k tiller

1. Open the top of the carton and remove the handlebar assembly.
2. Find parts packet. Parts packet contains:
   • 4- 3/8-16 x 3/4” hex head bolts
   • 4- 3/8-16 locknuts
   • 1- 5/16-18 x 3/4” hex head bolt
   • 1- detent pin
   • 1- five-star knob
3. Cut the open the end of the carton and remove the machine by:
   • Removing lock pins on wheels.
   • Roll the tiller from the carton.

INSTALL BATTERY BOX (6065VE)

NOTE : The battery box assembly comes already mounted on the lower handlebar mount.

Remove and discard bolts and nuts that are holding the battery box assembly to the lower handlebar mount. Carefully set aside the battery box so that the wiring remains intact. attac h handlebar to tiller

1. Place handlebar stems on the outside of the lower handlebar mount and align lower holes.
2. Insert one 3/8-16 x 3/4” bolt for each side in lower holes at the desired handlebar height.
3. Start 3/8-16 nuts on each bolt.
4. Insert one 3/8-16 x 3/4” bolt for each side in the upper holes.
5. Start 5/16” washers and 3/8-16 nuts on each bolt.
6. Place notches of battery box support over the four bolts between the lower handlebar mount and nuts.
7. Tighten all 3/8-16 nuts.
8. Remove the battery box cover and plug the white plastic connector from the battery into the mating white plastic connector in the battery box. Make sure the ignition key is removed from the ignition before connecting the wiring for the battery. Replace the battery box cover.

Fill engine CRANKCASE

1. Add oil according to the engine manual. Do not overfill. Use a clean, high-quality detergent oil. The container must be marked A.P.I. Service SF – SJ. Use no special additives with recommended oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline. The oil level must be full. Check the oil level by removing the oil fill plug. The oil level should be up to the bottom of the fill plug opening.
2. Always check the oil level before starting the engine. Refer to the engine manual for capacity and type of oil to use.

CAUTION

• DO NOT TRY TO LIFT THE ROTOTILLER FROM THE CARTON.
• DO NOT ADD ENGINE OIL TO THE GEAR CASE DIPSTICK HOLE.

Features

Operation

PRE-START INSPECTION

1. Make sure all safety guards are in place and all nuts and bolts are secure.
2. Check the oil level in the engine crankcase. See your engine manual for procedure and specifications.
3. Inspect air cleaners for cleanliness. See your engine manual for the procedure.
4. Check the fuel supply. Fill the fuel tank no closer than 1 inch from the top of the tank to provide space for expansion. See your engine manual for fuel recommendations.
5. Be sure the spark plug wire is attached and the spark plug is tightened securely.
6. Check the position of wheels and wheel lockouts.
7. C heck depth regulator lever position.
8. Examine underneath and around the engine for signs of oil or fuel leaks.
9. Inspect fuel hoses for tightness and fuel seepage.
10. Look for signs of engine damage.
11. Remove excessive debris from the muffler area and recoil the starter.

START-UP
The controls required to start and run the rototiller are located on the engine and are marked “Choke” and “Throttle”. A more detailed description of engine operation and all related precautions and procedures can be found in the engine manufacturer’s manual that accompanies each tiller.

Cold Starts

1. Move the choke lever to the full choke position.
2. Move the throttle lever to “start”.
3. Pull the starting rope out slowly one time and allow it to return normally.
4. Pull the starting rope out rapidly, and allow the rope to return normally.
5. When the engine starts, gradually move the choke lever to the “no choke” position and increase the throttle speed.

Restarting A Warm Engine
Restarting an engine that is already warm from the previous running does not normally require the use of the choke.

1. Move the throttle lever to the “start” position.
2. Pull the starting rope out rapidly until the engine starts. Allow the rope to return normally. Repeat until the engine starts.
3. Adjust throttle speed to “high” for best tiller action.

CAUTION
Please do not start your lower until you have read the manual that can be with your engine, and the sections in this manual titled Controls, Adjustments and Safety. If you have read these, follow the steps below to start your tiller. Always perform this pre-start checklist before starting the engine.

WARNING

• Gaso line is highly flammable le and must be handled with care. Never fill the tank when the engine is hot or running. Always move outdoors to fill the tank. Wheels must always be locked in the TILLING position when the engine is running.
• Do not operate the tiller with the wheel loc kouts unlocked. Always set the wheels in a long position before starting the engine.
• Always put the depth regulator lever in the transport position before starting the engine. Tines should clear the ground.

IMPORTANT
ENGINE IS SHIPPED FROM FACTORY WITHOUT OIL. YOU MUST ADD ENGINE OIL BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

DANGER
Always keep hands and feet clear of rotating machine parts

Idle Speed
Use the “low” position on the throttle lever to reduce stress on the engine when tilling is not being performed. Lowering the engine speed to “idle” will help extend the life of the motor, as well as conserve fuel and reduce the noise level of the equipment.

Operating Speed
For normal tilling, set the throttle lever to “fast”.

SHUTTING DOWN
To stop the engine at any time, move the throttle control to the off position. To stop wheels and tires at any time, release the drive safety control levers to the neutral position.

Tilling

1. Adjust the depth regulator lever to the desired tilling depth.
   • NOTE : Raise the depth regulator lever one hole at a time, testing the tiller operation after each raise. Raising the depth regulator lever too high can result in loss of control of the tiller!
2. Move the throttle control too fast.
3. Place the tiller forward by pushing down on the drive safety control lever labelled “FORWARD”–this will engage the wheels and tines.
   • NOTE: You can slow the tiller’s forward advance at any time by putting slight downward pressure on the handlebars. You can stop the tiller by releasing the drive safety control levers to the neutral position.

WARNING
THE TEMPERATURE OF THE MUFFLER AND NEARBY AREAS  MAY EXCEED 150° F. AVOID THESE AREAS. DO NOT MOVE CHOKE CONTROL TO CHOKE TO STOP ENGINE. BACKFIRE OR ENGINE DAMAGE MAY OCCUR. TO STOP WHEELS AND TIRES AT ANY TIME, RE-LEASE DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS NEUTRAL POSITION. ALWAYS RELEASE DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS TO NEUTRAL POSITION BEFORE ADJUSTING THE DEPTH OF THE REGULATOR LEVER.

DANGER
THE ENGINE AND SURROUNDING PARTS BECOME EXTREMELY HOT DURING NORMAL USE AND WILL CAUSE SERIOUS BURN INJURIES IF TOUCHED BEFORE THE ENGINE HAS COOLED. ALLOW ENGINE TO COOL COMPLETELY BEFORE TOUCHING THESE HOT SURFACES.

IMPORTANT
PRACTICE OPERATING THE CONTROLS AND TILLER WITH TINES OUT OF GROUND BEFORE BEGINNING TO TILL. YOU MUST KNOW HOW TO USE THE TILLER PROPERLY, KEEP CONTROL AT ALL TIMES, STOP THE TIRES AND WHEELS FROM TURNING, AND STOP THE ENGINE IF NECESSARY. IF YOU DO NOT KNOW \HOW TO DO THESE THINGS, READ THE CONTROLS, ADJUSTMENTS AND SAFETY SECTIONS BEFORE PROCEEDING

DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS

FORWARD LEVER

• Engages wheels and tines forward.
• Pulling the drive safety control lever labelled (FORWARD) toward the handlebar engages the wheels and tires. Releasing the lever stops the wheels and tires and brings the tiller to a complete stop.

REVERSE LEVER

• Engages wheels and tines into reverse.
• Pulling the drive safety control lever labelled (REVERSE) toward the handlebar reverses the tiller. Releasing the lever stops the wheels and tires.

CAUTION
DO NOT OPERATE BOTH “FORWARD” AND “REVERSE” DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS AT THE SAME TIME.  THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED HERE ONLY TO INTRODUCE THE CONTROLS. DO NOT START THE ENGINE AT THIS TIME. STARTING AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ARE GIVEN ON PAGE ??.

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION AND ALL OPERATING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE STARTING YOUR TILLER.

• AS A SAFETY PRECAUTION, THE DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS WILL NOT LOCK IN THE FORWARD OR REVERSE POSITION.
• AS A SAFETY PRECAUTION, THE REVERSE DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVER WILL NOT LOCK IN REVERSE.
• TO STOP THE WHEELS AND TIRES AT ANY TIME RELEASE THE DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LE- VERS OR RELEASE THE REVERSE HANDLE.
• DO NOT OPERATE BOTH THE REVERSE AND FORWARD DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS AT THE SAME TIME.

WARNING : ENGINE SHOULD BE OFF BEFORE ADJUSTING ANY CONTROLS. EXTREME CAUTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN OPERATING ROTOTILLER IN THE REVERSE DIRECTION.

WHEEL LOCK PINS (5055, R5055H)
Place wheels in the tilling position.

1. Remove the lock pin. Align the hole in the axle with a hole in the wheel hub.
2. Insert lock pin through holes, fold lock pin ring to secure pin to axle.
3. Firmly lock the wheel and axle together before tilling.
4. Repeat for the other wheel.
   • NOTE : Always have both wheel lock pins in or out. Do not operate the tiller with only one wheel locked.

To place wheels in free-wheel position.

1. Remove the lock pin. Slide the wheel inward toward the machine.
2. Insert pin in axle only.
3. The wheel should turn freely on the axle.

WHEEL LOCKOUTS (5155, 6065VE)
Place wheels in the tilling position.

1. Pull the knob in the centre of the wheel out, away from the machine.
2. Rotate the knob and lockout to align with a slot on the axle, and release the knob. Rotate the wheel to align the slot in the wheel hub with the lockout.
3. Firmly lock the wheel and axle together before tilling.
4. Repeat for another wheel.
   • NOTE : Always have both wheel lockouts in or out. Do not operate the tiller with only one wheel locked.

To place wheels in free-wheel position.

1. Pull the knob in the centre of the wheel out, away from the machine.
2. Rotate the knob and lockout to align the lockout with the detent at the end of the axle. Release knob.
3. The wheel should turn freely on the axle.

HANDLEBAR HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

Adjust handlebar height. The ideal height of the handlebar varies with operator height and the depth of tilling. To adjust handlebar height:

1. Unscrew the nuts and remove the top and bottom bolts on each side.
2. Align the handlebar to the desired holes on the lower handlebar mount.
3. Install bolts and nuts. Retighten.

WARNING
NEVER START THE ENGINE OR OPERATE THE TILLER WITH WHEELS IN A FREE-WHEEL POSITION. THE FREE-WHEEL POSITION IS FOR TRANSPORTING THE TILLER LONG DISTANCES OVER LEVEL GROUND- -DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MOVE THE TILLER UP OR DOWN STEEP GRADES IN THE FREE-WHEEL POSITION.

DEPTH REGULATOR LEVER
Tilling depth is controlled by the height of the depth regulator lever. To adjust tilling depth.

1. Remove the detent pin.
2. Raise the depth regulator lever to position tines at the chosen tilling depth.
3. Align the hole-in-depth regulator lever with the hole-in-depth regulator bracket and replace the detent pin.
   • Depth Regulator Lever Down = Shallower tilling. Place the detent pin in the top hole of the depth regulator lever for the shallowest tilling.
   • Depth Regulator Lever Up = Deeper tilling. Place the detent pin in the bottom hole of the depth regulator lever for deepest tilling.

BELT TENSION ADJUSTMENT
Proper belt tension is critical to good performance. After 1/2 hour of operation, all cables may have to be adjusted due to initial stretch. Thereafter, check tension after every 2 hours of operation.

To increase belt tension:

1. Loosen upper jam nut. Turn the nut-up cable in 1/8” increments.
2. Tighten the lower jam nut.
3. Check adjustment.

This procedure can be repeated until conduit adjustment bolts are fully adjusted. If no more adjustments can be made, the belt may have to be replaced.

WARNING
DO NOT ADJUST TILLING DEPTH UNLESS DRIVE SAFETY CONTROL LEVERS ARE RELEASED TO NEUTRAL POSITION.

ALWAYS SET THE DEPTH REGULATOR LEVER IN THE TRANSPORT POSITION BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE, THAT IS, PLACE THE DETENT PIN IN THE HIGHEST HOLE OF THE DEPTH REGULATOR LEVER.

TILLING TIPS
The key to successful tilling is to begin with a shallow cut on the first pass, and then work an inch or two deeper on each successive pass.

• Tilling depth will vary with ground conditions.
• When beginning to till in unbroken ground or extremely hard soil, set the detent pin in the highest hole of the drag stake (follow instructions under the Tilling section). This will allow for shallow tilling. With the drag stake in this position, make several light passes over the area to be tilled. Reset for deeper depths with successive passes.
• If the tiller jumps or skids uncontrollably, lower the drag stake by placing the detent pin in a higher hole. This will allow for shallower tilling. Hold firmly to the handlebars to control sudden lurches.
• If weeds, tall grasses, vines, or other materials clog or jam the tines, reverse the tiller to unwind vegetation.

Immediately release the drive control levers if the tires jam or you strike a foreign object. With drive control levers in a neutral position, push the throttle control to the stop position to stop the engine. Disengage the spark plug wire. When tines have stopped, remove foreign objects and check for damage.

CULTIVATING TIPS
If you plan to use your tiller for cultivating:

• Plant rows on 20″ – 22″ centres for ease of turning.
• Set the depth regulator lever with the detent pin in one of the higher holes. This will allow for shallow cultivation necessary to turn over weeds, and break up and aerate the soil.

WARNING
EXTREME CAUTION MUST BE TAKEN IN SELECTING TILLING DEPTH. IF YOU ATTEMPT TO TILL TOO DEEPLY FOR SOIL CONDITIONS, THAT IS, WITH THE DRAG STAKE IN TOO HIGH A POSITION, LOSS OF CONTROL COULD RESULT. IF REMOVING MATERIAL FROM THE TINES BY HAND, STOP THE ENGINE AND REMOVE THE SPARK PLUG WIRE FIRST.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

• Your rototiller has been designed and produced by the industry’s leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment to provide you with years of reliable operation.
• Keeping your tiller in top running condition will prolong its life, and help you obtain optimum performance.
• Please read this normal care schedule and note the recommended care onerating intervals to extend the life of vour unit
  maintenance Operation| Page| Before Each Use| 50 hours or Every Season
  ---|---|---|---
  change forward/reverse belt| 18|  | x
  Engine maintenance| 19| x| x
  check or fill the engine crankcase| 19, EM| x| 2
  check tiller transmission grease| 20| x|
  check tire pressure| 20| x|
  Lubrication| 20| x|
  clean tine axle shaft| 20| x|
  Lubricate wheel axle shaft| 21|  | x
  check throttle control adjustment| EM|  | 1

Em = See engine manual

• Adjust throttle control after the first 3 hours of operation or if the engine is hard to start or a run-on occurs.
• change the oil after the first 5-8 hours of use, then after every 50 hours or every season. change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures

SERVICING THE ROTOTILLER
The following information will help you make the necessary checks and perform the procedures required to follow the normal care recommendations made for your rototiller unit. If you prefer, your local authorized dealer can make these checks and perform the required procedures for you.

CHANGE FORWARD/REVERSE BELT

1. Turn off the engine. The engine must be cool.
2. Remove the spark plug wire and secure it from the spark plug.
3. Remove the belt guard.
   • remove the forward belt from the forward engine pulley:
   • gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley.
   • with the pulley turning, force the forward belt out of the V- V-groove.
   • slide the belt free of the engine pulley.
   • pull the forward belt down and out of the way.
   • remove the reverse belt from the reverse engine pulley:
   • gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley.
   • with the pulley turning, force the reverse belt out of the V- V-groove.
   • slide the belt free of engine pulleys and reverse belt guides.
   • pull the belt down and away from the transmission pulley.
   • install new reverse belt:
   • thread belt up from the bottom.
   • place the belt around the transmission pulley in the groove.
   • place the belt under reverse belt guides.
   • gently pull the engine recoil rope while forcing the belt over the edge of the engine pulley into the V-groove.
   • install new forward belt:
   • place the forward belt in the transmission pulley groove.
   • gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley while forcing the forward belt into the V-groove.
4. Replace the belt guard.
5. Attach spark plug wire.

CAUTION:
DO NOT OPERATE TILLER BEFORE READING THE ENGINE MANUAL PROVIDED IN THE PARTS PACKET.

WARNING:
THE TEMPERATURE OF THE MUFFLER AND NEARBY AREAS MAY EXCEED 150° F. AVOID THESE AREAS.

IMPORTANT
THE ENGINE CAN OVERHEAT AND BECOME DAMAGED IF DEBRIS BLOCKS THE COOLING SYSTEM OR ROTATING SCREEN. NEVER RUN ENGINE WITHOUT COMPLETE AIR CLEANER INSTALLED ON ENGINE. BELT REPLACEMENT PART #’S: 727A (forward) 730 (reverse)|

ENGINE MAINTENANCE
Refer to the engine manual included in your parts packet for information on engine maintenance. Your engine manual provides detailed information and a maintenance schedule for performing the following tasks:

1. Check the oil level before each use or after every 8 hours of operation.
2. Change oil after first 5-8 hours of operation. Change the oil while the engine is warm. Refill with new oil of recommended grade.
3. Check the spark plug yearly or every 100 hours of operation.
4. Service air cleaner.
5. Keep engine and parts clean.
6. Check engine and equipment often for loose nuts and bolts, keep these items tightened.

CHECK OR FILL ENGINE CRANKCASE

1. Add oil according to the engine manual. Do not overfill. Use a clean, high-quality detergent oil. The container must be marked A.P.I. Service SF – SJ. Use no special additives with recommended oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline. The oil level must be full. Check the oil level by removing the oil fill plug. The oil level should be up to the bottom of the fill plug opening.
2. Always check the oil level before starting the engine. Refer to the engine manual for capacity and type of oil to use.

CHECK TILLER TRANSMISSION GREASE
Check the grease level annually. To check the grease level:

1. Move tiller to level ground.
2. Remove grease level dipstick located between the handlebar mounts on the engine mount. The correct grease level is indicated between the high and low levels on the dipstick.
3. Replace the grease level dipstick in the filler hole.
4. Note that the front wheel transmission and rear tine transmission are common reservoirs. When you add to the front transmission, you must wait a short period for the grease to flow rearward and equalize in both front and rear. The dipstick will read correctly on level ground for both gear units.
   (Use Mystic 00 transmission fluid PN 1690)

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The recommended tire pressure is 20 PSI. If tires do not have equal pressure, the tiller will pull to one side.

IMPORTANT
ENGINE IS SHIPPED FROM FACTORY WITHOUT OIL. YOU MUST ADD ENGINE OIL BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

IMPORTANT
TILLER TRANSMISSION IS SHIPPED FROM THE FACTORY WITH THE PROPER AMOUNT OF LIQUID GREASE. WHEN REPLACING GREASE, THE TILLER TRANSMISSION HOLDS 18-22 OUNCES. DO NOT OVERFILL.

LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication of moving mechanical parts is critical for proper care and maintenance. Oil the moving parts shown at 10-hour intervals using a 30-weight oil.

CLEAN TINE AXLE SHAFT

1. Turn off the engine. The engine must be cool.
2. Remove the spark plug wire and secure it from the spark plug.
3. Tip the tiller forward. Block the tiller in position so that it rests on the engine mount and the tines are exposed.
4. Remove all vegetation, string, wire, and other material that may have accumulated on the axle between the inside set of tines and the seal on the transmission housing.
5. Tip the tiller back to a level position.
6. Replace the spark plug wire.

STORAGE

PREPARE FOR STORAGE

Follow the steps below to prepare your tiller for storage. Read your engine manual for detailed instructions on preparing the engine for storage.

1. Protect wheels and axles from rust:
   • Remove the lock pin and slide the wheel off the hub.
   • Coat the axles lightly with axle grease.
   • Slide the wheel back on the hub and insert the lock pin.
2. Drain the fuel system completely following the engine manufacturer’s instructions or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from gumming up during the extended storage period.
3. While the engine is still warm, drain the oil from the engine. Refill with fresh oil of the recommended grade.
4. Clean external surfaces, engine and cooling fan.
5. Remove the spark plug, and pour one ounce of SAE 30 oil into the spark plug hole.
6. Plug the hole and pull the starter cord slowly to distribute the oil evenly in the cylinder head area.
7. Reinstall spark plug.
8. Transport unit to a suitable storage location. If you have chosen to use a fuel stabilizer and have not drained the fuel system, follow all safety instructions and storage precautions in this manual to prevent the possibility of fire from the ignition of gasoline fumes. Remember, gasoline fumes can travel to distant sources of ignition and ignite, causing a risk of explosion and fire.
9. If there is any possibility of unauthorized use or tampering, remove the spark plug and store it in a safe place before storing the rototiller unit. Be sure to plug the spark plug hole to prevent foreign material from entering.

WARNING
DO NOT STORE THE TILLER IN AN UNVENTILATED AREA WHERE FUEL FUMES MAY REACH FLAME, SPARKS, PILOT LIGHTS OR AN IGNITED OBJECT. DRAIN FUEL OUTDOORS AWAY FROM ANY IGNITION SOURCES. USE ONLY APPROVED FUEL CONTAINERS.

Troubleshooting and Repair

Troubleshooting Guide
While normal care and routine maintenance will extend the life of your rototiller, prolonged or constant use may eventually require that service be performed to allow it to continue operating properly. The troubleshooting guide below lists the most common problems, causes and remedies.

WARNING
PRACTICE SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. THE ENGINE MUST BE TURNED OFF AND ALLOWED TO COOL, AND THE SPARK PLUG WIRE MUST BE DISCONNECTED AND SECURED BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS SAFETY REQUIREMENT CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY TO YOU OR BYSTANDERS.

•    connect spark plug wire to spark plug

•    Throttle must be positioned at choke for a cold start

Engine runs rough, floods during operation| •    clean or replace air cleaner
The engine is hard to start| •    Drain old fuel and replace it with fresh. Use gas stabilizer at the end of the season

•    Make sure the spark plug wire is securely attached to the spark plug

•    Drive safety control levers must be released to the neutral position to start the engine

Engine misses or lacks power| •    Raise the tines for shallow tilling by lowering the depth regulator lever

•    Remove and clean the fuel tank

•    clean or replace air cleaner

•    Improper carburettor adjustment, take to authorized engine service centre

•    Replace the spark plug and adjust the gap

•    Drain and refill the gas tank and carburettor

The engine will not stop when throttle control is positioned at the stop| • See the engine manual to check and adjust the throttle linkage
Tiller moves forward while starting| •    Drive safety control levers must be released to the neutral position to start the engine
The tiller is difficult to control when tilling (the machine jumps or lurches forward)| •    Lock wheels in tilling position

•    Raise the tines for shallower tilling by lowering the depth regulator lever

Tines turn, but wheels do not turn| •    Lock wheels in tilling position

•    Internal transmission failure, see your dealer

Tines turn, wheels turn, tiller does not move| •    Lower the tines for deeper tilling by raising the depth regulator lever
PROBlEm| REmEdY/ACTION
---|---
Belts squeal in neutral and/or reverse| •    Adjust forward belt guide:

– turn the engine off and allow the muffler to cool

– disconnect the spark plug wire and secure it from the spark plug

– remove the belt guard

– pull down on the drive safety control levers

– manually bend forward belt guide so there is 1/16 inch or less clearance between the belt guide and the belt

– replace belt guard and spark plug wire

Belts squeal in forward operation| •    Adjust tabs on the reverse belt guide

– turn the engine off and allow the muffler to cool

– disconnect the spark plug wire and secure it from the spark plug

– release drive safety control levers to the neutral position

– remove the belt guard

– adjust tabs of the reverse belt guide:

while driving safety control levers are released, bend metal tabs on the reverse belt guide to 1/64 inch or less clearance from the reverse belt

– replace belt guard and spark plug wire

Excessive heat build-up in transmission/tine area during tilling| • Remove vegetation by following instructions in the clean Tine Axle Shaft of the Normal care section.

FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUcTIONS

•       check the transmission fluid and fill if needed

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Earthquake, Division of Ardisam, Inc. 1690 Elm Street; P.O. Box 666 Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829 800-345-6007 · Fax 715-822-2223 E-mail: info@ardisam.com 

References

• Ardisam Inc.
• Manual-Hub.com – Free PDF manuals!

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