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MTD 380 - User Manual

MTD 380
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Front Tine Tillers
Model Series
340 Thru 390
Operator’s Manual
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
770-10135C.fm
(11/03)
Model Series 390 Shown

Table of Contents

Other manuals for MTD 380

Preview: Service Manual
Service Manual16 pages

Questions and Answers

  • J
    Jasmine BartonJul 26, 2025
    Why MTD Tiller engine fails to start?
    • J
      Justin SmithJul 26, 2025
      The engine might fail to start due to several reasons: the fuel tank is empty or the fuel is stale, the throttle control lever is not in the correct starting position, the fuel line is blocked, the air cleaner is dirty, the choke is not in the ON position, the spark plug wire is disconnected or the spark plug is faulty. To solve this: * Fill the tank with clean, fresh gasoline, and remember that fuel will not last over thirty days unless a fuel stabilizer is used. * Move the throttle lever to the start position. * Clean the fuel line. * Move the switch to the ON position. * Connect the wire to the spark plug. * Clean, adjust the gap, or replace the spark plug.
  • K
    Kimberly MeyersAug 5, 2025
    What to do if MTD Tiller engine runs erratic?
    • J
      Julie JosephAug 5, 2025
      If the engine runs erratically, it could be due to: * The unit running on CHOKE. * A loose spark plug wire. * A blocked fuel line or stale fuel. * A plugged vent in the gas cap. * Water or dirt in the fuel system. To fix this, move the choke lever to the OFF position, connect and tighten the spark plug wire, clean the fuel line, fill the tank with clean, fresh gasoline (fuel won't last over thirty days without a fuel stabilizer), clear the vent in the gas cap, or drain the fuel tank and refill with fresh fuel.
  • S
    Susan DavidsonAug 15, 2025
    How to fix MTD Tiller when tines do not engage?
    • D
      Deborah ShieldsAug 16, 2025
      If the tines do not engage, it could be due to a foreign object lodged in the tines, missing tine clevis pins, the pulley and idler not in the correct adjustment, the control cable not adjusted properly, or a worn and/or stretched belt. To resolve this, dislodge any foreign object, replace any missing tine clevis pins, or replace the belt.

Summary

Finding Model Number

Customer Support

Important Safe Operation Practices

Training

Instructions and guidance for safe operation.

Preparation

Steps to take before operating the tiller.

Operation

Guidelines for safe tiller operation.

Maintenance and Storage

Procedures for upkeep and storing the tiller.

Your Responsibility

Operator's duties for safe use.

Assembling Your Tiller

Removing Unit From Carton

Unpacking and preparing the tiller from its packaging.

Attaching Tailpiece and Depth Stake

Installing the rear tailpiece and depth stake.

Attaching Handle Assembly

Connecting the tiller's handle assembly.

Attaching Clutch Control Cable(s)

Connecting the forward and reverse clutch cables.

Final Clutch Adjustment

Adjusting the tiller's clutch controls for proper function.

Know Your Tiller

Throttle Control

How the throttle lever controls engine speed and stops the engine.

Choke Lever

Using the choke for starting a cold engine.

Primer Button

Priming the carburetor for cold engine starts.

Forward Tine Engagement Handle

Engaging and disengaging the forward tines.

Reverse Tine Drive Clutch Lever

Operating the reverse tine drive engagement.

Operating Your Tiller

Gas and Oil Fill Up

Instructions for filling fuel and oil.

Starting Engine

Procedures for safely starting the tiller's engine.

To Stop Engine

Steps to safely shut down the tiller's engine.

Wheel Position

Adjusting wheel height for optimal tiller operation.

Removing End Caps

Detaching end caps for specific tilling operations.

Controlling Speed And Tilling Depth

Adjusting tiller speed and working depth.

Depth Stake Adjustment

Modifying the depth stake for control.

Transport Position

Positioning the tiller for transport.

Handle Pressure

Using handle pressure to control depth and speed.

Throttle Control

Adjusting engine speed and stopping.

Transporting The Tiller

Safely moving the tiller from place to place.

Cultivating

Techniques and settings for cultivating.

Making Adjustments

Engine Adjustment

Adjusting engine settings per the engine manual.

Wheel Adjustments

Adjusting wheel yoke and position.

Clutch Control Adjustments

Fine-tuning clutch control settings.

Depth Stake Adjustment

Adjusting the depth stake for desired operation.

Tine Width Adjustment

Modifying the tiller's working width.

Maintaining Your Tiller

Lubrication

Lubricating moving parts and pivot points.

Cleaning Tine Area

Cleaning the tines and shield after use.

Belt Replacement

Procedures for replacing drive belts.

Off-Season Storage

Preparing the tiller for extended storage periods.

Trouble Shooting Guide

Illustrated Parts List

Manufacturers Limited Warranty

MTD 380 Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeTwo-Stage
Drive SystemAuger-Propelled
Auger MaterialSteel
Clearing Width21 in.
Engine Type4-Cycle
Engine Displacement208cc
Chute ControlManual

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