EarthWise TC78510 - User Manual

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

This document is the operator's manual for the Earthwise Tiller/Cultivator, Model TC78510. It provides detailed instructions for assembly, operation, and maintenance, along with important safety warnings and product specifications. The manual is presented in English, Spanish, and French.

Function Description

The Earthwise Tiller/Cultivator is designed for various gardening tasks, including breaking sod, preparing seed beds, and cultivating gardens and flower beds. It can also be used to dig small holes for planting saplings or potted plants. The device is engineered for dependability, ease of operation, and operator safety, aiming to provide years of rugged, trouble-free performance when properly cared for. It features adjustable tine assembly, allowing for configuration with either two or four tines to suit different tilling needs. The tiller/cultivator is equipped with overheat protection, which automatically switches off the motor if it is blocked by a foreign object or overloaded, ensuring safety and preventing damage.

Important Technical Specifications

Model: TC78510
Power Supply Voltage: 120V-60HZ
Tine Speed: 320 RPM
Working Width: 7-IN or 11-IN (18 cm or 28 cm)
Working Depth Max: 8-IN (20 cm)
Power Consumption: 8.5 Amp
Insulation: Double insulated, meaning all external metal parts are insulated from the electrical supply by an insulation layer between electrical and mechanical parts, ensuring maximum safety.

Usage Features

Starting the Tiller/Cultivator: Before starting, ensure the wheel frame is raised and locked in place. Secure the extension cord into the cord retainer, ensuring enough slack for free movement, then plug it into the tiller's power cord. To activate, grip the center of the handle with the left hand, push and hold the safety lock button on the switch box with the right hand, then pull the switch control bail wire toward the handle with the remaining fingers of the left hand. Release the safety lock button once the unit has started.
Stopping the Tiller/Cultivator: Simply release the bail wire.
Tilling Patterns: For preparing seed beds, two tilling patterns are recommended:
- Tilling Pattern A: Make two passes over the area, the second at a right angle to the first.
- Tilling Pattern B: Make two passes over the area, the second overlapping the first.
Deep Tilling/Breaking Sod: Allow the tines to pull the tiller/cultivator forward to the end of your arm's reach, then firmly pull it back toward yourself. Repeatedly moving it forward and pulling it back yields the best results. Pulling the tiller/cultivator back towards yourself causes the tines to dig deeper and more aggressively.
Clearing Foreign Objects: If stones, roots, or tall grass/weeds become lodged in the tines or around the tine shaft, release the trigger lever, wait for the tines to stop, and unplug the tiller/cultivator. Dislodge or remove the foreign matter. For easier removal of tall grass or weeds, one or more tines can be removed.
Adjustable Tine Assembly: The tiller/cultivator can be configured with either two or four tines. Tines are identified (A, B, C, D) with letters stamped into their hubs. To change from four to two tines, lift the Lock Pin rings, remove Lock Pins at both ends of the shaft, and remove Tine A and D. To change from two to four tines, install Tine A and D onto the shaft, ensuring holes in the Tine Hubs and shaft are aligned, then insert Lock Pins and pull the ring downward to lock them. If Lock Pins are lost, Tines A and D can be secured using M8x40 Hex head bolts and M8 Lock nuts.
Safety Precautions: Always wear eye and ear protection. Keep bystanders at a safe distance. Do not use in wet weather conditions. Ensure the extension cord is in good condition and of adequate gauge. Be aware of the extension cord to avoid tripping and guide it away from the tines. Do not operate near underground electrical cables, telephone lines, pipes, or hoses. Always turn off the tiller/cultivator and disconnect from the power supply before maintenance or repairs. Tines do not stop immediately after the unit is turned off. Avoid placing hands, feet, or clothing near rotating tines.

Maintenance Features

Pre-Use Check: Before each use, inspect the extension cord for damage (cracks, splits), check the condition of the tines, and ensure all threaded connections are securely tightened. Sharpen or replace dull/blunt tines as necessary.
Cleaning: Always clean the tiller/cultivator after each use. Clean the underside of the motor support plate and housing around the tines with a scrub brush and a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Never use a water hose to clean the tiller. Use a stiff brush or dampened cloth to remove soil and debris from the transmission and tines. Clean the vents on the motor housing and remove any remaining grass or dirt. After cleaning, wipe the tines and shaft dry and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Lubrication: Lubricate the tines and shaft once per season. The tines drive transmission case is factory-greased and does not require grease level checks or additions for the first two years of use. After the second season, drain screw plugs (located on the right side of the transmission housing) can be removed using a 5mm hex key to add approximately 2.4 oz. (70ml) of auto gear lube using a squeeze bottle or tube. Do not overfill.
Tine Maintenance: Worn tines can lead to poor performance and motor overload. Inspect tines before each use and sharpen or replace assemblies as needed.
Storage: Store the tiller/cultivator in a dry, clean area out of reach of children. For extended storage, protect metal surfaces from corrosion by wiping with an oil-impregnated cloth or spraying with a fine coat of oil. Fold the guide bar down for compact storage.
Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as the motor not starting (unit not plugged in, no electricity, defective cable, defective safety switch/plug, overheat protection activated), abnormal noises (blade jammed, lubrication running out, loose components), abnormal vibrations (damaged/worn blades, incorrect working depth), and poor results (damaged/worn blades, incorrect working depth).
Repair Parts and Service: For repair parts or service questions, contact customer service at 1-800-313-5111 between 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM EST, or send emails to earthwise@reelin.com. It is important to provide the name of the item (Tiller/Cultivator), model number (TC78510), and serial number when contacting for assistance. Only use original replacement parts for worn or damaged components.