MTD 380 User Manual

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

MTD 380 Specifications

General

Type	Two-Stage
Drive System	Auger-Propelled
Auger Material	Steel
Clearing Width	21 in.
Engine Type	4-Cycle
Engine Displacement	208cc
Chute Control	Manual

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

Manufacturer's Limited Warranty