Merry Tiller ST5 5H Series - User Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
Suburban Merry Tiller
Models: ST5.5H ST750IC ST6.5V
CAUTION:
Before using this product, read this
manual and follow all Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions.
MACKISSIC, INC. P.O. BOX 111, PARKER FORD, PA 19457-0111
Phone: (610) 495-7181 e-mail: info@mackissic.com FAX (610) 495-5951
www.mackissic.com
PART # 709-3400
05/18/2020

Summary

Safety

Intended Use

Defines the proper and intended use of the tiller for cultivating soil.

Safety Warnings and Dangers

Highlights critical hazards like rotating parts, crushing dangers, and hot surfaces.

General Preparation

Children Safety

Specific rules for preventing child injury while operating the tiller.

Repair and Maintenance Safety

Operator Responsibility and Safety Instructions

Outlines user duties and essential safety procedures for maintenance.

Assembly Instructions

Package Contents and Tools

Lists all items included in the package and required tools for assembly.

Step I: Unpacking and Checking Contents

Instructions for unpacking the tiller and verifying all parts.

Step II: Attaching Handles, Cross Brace and Tie Bars

Detailed steps for connecting main structural components of the tiller.

Step III: Attaching Controls and Starter Rope

Guide for installing throttle, clutch cables, and starter rope.

Lubrication & Engine Start Up

Engine Preparation and Lubrication

Steps to prepare and lubricate the engine before initial start.

Transmission Lubrication and Pre-Start Checks

Information on transmission grease and essential checks before starting.

Operation

Tilling Procedure

Instructions on how to operate the tiller for tilling.

Operating Precautions

Safety guidelines and warnings during tiller operation.

Service, Maintenance & Repair

Belt and Clutch Adjustment

Procedures for adjusting belt tension and clutch engagement.

Belt Installation and Pulley Alignment

Guidance on installing belts and ensuring proper pulley alignment.

Service Notes

General notes and recommendations for tiller service.

Transmission Case Inspection

Steps to inspect the transmission case for wear and proper function.

Engine Maintenance

Recommendations for maintaining the engine for optimal performance.

Service Bulletin

Tine Shaft Seal Replacement

Instructions for replacing worn tine shaft oil seals.

Replacement Parts and Maintenance Schedule

Lists part numbers and outlines a schedule for maintenance tasks.

Storage

Engine and Fuel Storage Preparation

Procedures for safely storing the engine and fuel.

Fuel Stabilizer and Oil Management

Guidance on using fuel stabilizers and managing engine oil during storage.

Technical Specifications and Diagrams

Transmission Assembly Diagram

Detailed diagram of the transmission assembly with part references.

Exploded Parts Diagram

Visual representation of all tiller parts in an exploded view.

Suburban Parts List

Comprehensive list of all available parts for the tiller.

Limited Warranty

Warranty Coverage, Duration, and Exclusions

Details the warranty period, what is covered, and exclusions.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The document is an owner's manual for the Suburban Merry Tiller, specifically for models ST5.5H, ST750IC, and ST6.5V. It provides comprehensive information on the tiller's assembly, operation, maintenance, and safety.

Function Description:

The Suburban Merry Tiller is a mid-tine garden tiller designed for cultivating soil. Its primary function is to prepare soil for planting by breaking it up and mixing it. The tiller is equipped with rotating tines that dig into the ground, and a drag bar that controls the tilling depth and forward motion. It is intended solely for cultivating soil and should only be used with approved attachments and accessories.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Models Covered: ST5.5H, ST750IC, ST6.5V
• Tine Type: Mid-tine
• Transmission: Factory serviced with "00" grease. No additional lubrication is necessary or recommended for the transmission.
• Engine: Shipped dry, requires servicing according to the engine owner's manual prior to starting. Models with Honda engines do not have an extended rope pull and are equipped with an on/off switch for starting and stopping from the engine position.
• Belt Tension: For proper belt tightness and tiller operation, the distance from the center of the engine crankshaft to the center of the transmission input shaft should measure 14 3/4".
• Tine Shaft Seals: The tiller transmission has two oil seals on each side of the tine shaft. The inner seal faces into the transmission to keep lubricant in, and the outer seal faces outward to keep dirt out. The smooth sides of the two seals must face each other.
• Warranty: Two years for consumer use, one year for commercial and rental use.

Usage Features:

• Starting:
  1. Remove or rotate wheels to the up position.
  2. Adjust the drag bar for the desired tilling depth.
  3. Stand between the handlebars.
  4. Allow the clutch lever to drop into the disengaged position.
  5. Move the throttle lever to the run position.
  6. Set the choke lever to the choke position.
  7. Hold the left handlebar and pull the starter rope with the right hand (for models with rope pull).
  8. Once the engine starts, return the choke lever to the run position and adjust the throttle for the desired speed.
• Tilling:
  • Squeeze the clutch lever to start tilling.
  • Apply downward pressure on the handles to allow the drag bar to control the forward motion.
  • For hard or frozen soil, a reduced throttle speed may be necessary. If tines catch and propel the tiller forward, release the clutch lever.
• Stopping: Release the clutch lever and move the throttle to the stop position.
• Transport: The tiller is equipped with rear wheels for transporting to and from the tilling area. These wheels should be swung up and locked in the upper position during tilling.
• Drag Bar Adjustment: The drag bar acts as an anchor, controlling the tilling depth and forward motion. It can be adjusted by pulling the third pin out and raising or lowering it.
• Safety Labels: All safety labels (part number 091-0423) must be kept clean and in good condition.

Maintenance Features:

• General Preparation:
  • Read the owner's manual thoroughly.
  • Familiarize yourself with controls and proper use.
  • Inspect the work area for foreign objects.
  • Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting clothing.
  • Do not operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, and inspect for damage if the tines strike an object or if unusual noise/vibration occurs.
  • Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
• Engine Maintenance:
  • Refer to the engine owner's manual for specific maintenance instructions.
  • Always check the oil level prior to starting the tiller.
  • Regularly check engine oil level as four-cycle engines consume some oil.
• Belt and Clutch Adjustment:
  • Check and adjust belt tension after initial 20-30 minutes of operation.
  • Adjustment can be made by switching the link on the clutch cable, moving the adjustment link on the idler arm, or, as a last resort, by sliding the engine forward or backward on its mounts.
  • The clutch spring should be slightly stretched (about 1/4 inch) when the lever is squeezed tight.
  • The belt release bracket forces the belt out of the engine pulley groove when the clutch lever is not engaged, allowing it to slip.
• Belt Installation and Pulley Alignment:
  • Examine pulley grooves for wear when installing a new belt.
  • Align pulleys by sliding the engine pulley to ensure the belt travels in a straight line.
  • Install the belt inside the two pins of the belt release bracket.
  • Test clutch operation after installation.
• Transmission Inspection:
  • The transmission is factory serviced with "00" grease; no additional lubrication is needed.
  • Periodically inspect for leakage and check all bolts for tightness.
  • To check for excessive wear, turn the large pulley by hand and observe the rotor shaft. If the large pulley travels more than 3 inches (7.6 cm) before the tine shaft moves, it indicates excessive wear in chains, sprockets, shafts, or bearings.
  • Tine shaft seals should be inspected and replaced regularly to prevent dirt entry and lubricant escape.
• Tine Maintenance:
  • Regularly check tines for wear and elongation of clevis pin holes. Replace tines when the lead corner on the cutting edge becomes rounded.
  • Remove vines or garden debris wrapped around the tine shaft.
• Storage:
  • Clean the tiller thoroughly and wipe it down with an oiled rag to prevent rust.
  • Store in a clean, dry area, away from corrosive materials like fertilizer.
  • If storing in an unventilated or metal shed, rustproof with light oil or silicone.
  • Engine Storage (for periods over 30 days):
    • Empty the fuel tank.
    • Run the engine until fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
    • Remove the spark plug, pour approximately one tablespoon of engine oil into the cylinder, and crank slowly to distribute. Replace the spark plug.
    • Use fresh fuel next season.
    • Alternatively, use a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for at least ten minutes after adding it. Do not drain the gas tank or carburetor if using stabilizer.
  • Drain all oil from the crankcase and refill with fresh oil each season (when the engine is warm).
• Safety Devices: Never tamper with safety devices. Ensure all guards and shields are in proper position.
• General Checks: Periodically check and keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight. Inspect the belt for damage, worn areas, or tears before each use.

Merry Tiller ST5 5H Series Specifications