MTD 401 Series - User Manual

Rear Tine Tiller
Model Series 410
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.
770-10136F.fm
(11/3/06)

Summary

Product Identification and Support

Customer Support and Assistance

How to get help with assembly, operation, or maintenance questions.

Section 1: Safety: Operation Practices

Safety Training

Instructions for safe operation and understanding controls.

Pre-Operation Safety Checks

Steps to take before operating the tiller, including area inspection.

Safe Operating Procedures

Guidelines and warnings for safe tiller operation.

Section 2: Tiller Assembly Guide

Assembly Safety Precautions

Safety warning to disconnect the spark plug wire.

Clutch Adjustment Procedure

Adjusting the clutch for proper operation.

Section 3: Tiller Component Identification

Gear Selection Control

Description and operation of the gear selection handle.

Clutch Operation Lever

Section 4: Tiller Operation Guide

Pre-Operation Procedures

Precautions and steps before starting the engine.

Engine Starting Sequence

Detailed steps for starting the tiller's engine.

Engine Shutdown Procedure

Procedure for safely stopping the engine.

Adjusting Tilling Depth

Section 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Section 8: Model 410 Parts Identification

Overview

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

This document is an Operator's Manual for a Rear Tine Tiller, specifically Model Series 410, manufactured by MTD LLC. It provides comprehensive instructions for assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring safe and effective use of the equipment.

Function Description:

The Rear Tine Tiller is a power equipment designed for cultivating soil in gardens and other land areas. Its primary function is to break up and pulverize soil using rotating tines, preparing the ground for planting or other agricultural purposes. The tiller is equipped with an internal combustion engine to power both the tines and the wheels, allowing for self-propelled operation. It features a depth stake to control tilling depth, a gear selection handle for various drive modes (Neutral, Reverse, Wheels Forward, Tines Reverse), and a clutch handle to engage the drive mechanisms. The handle assembly is adjustable for user comfort.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Model Series: 410
• Engine: Internal combustion engine (specific details are referred to in a separate engine manual).
• Tilling Depth Control: Adjustable depth stake with five settings (e.g., 1", 3", 5", 7" indicated on the depth stake).
• Tire Pressure: Recommended operating pressure is approximately 14 p.s.i. for 14-inch tires and 20 p.s.i. for 16-inch tires. Maximum tire pressure under any circumstances is 30 p.s.i.
• Transmission Grease: Benalene 920 grease (part number 737-0300) for transmission lubrication.
• Belt Type: Engineered with a specific belt designed for long life and optimal performance; non-OEM belts are not recommended.
• Fuel: Gasoline (specific type referred to in engine manual).
• Oil: Engine oil (specific type referred to in engine manual).
• Dimensions: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be a walk-behind unit with handles, wheels, and tines.

Usage Features:

• Safety First: The manual emphasizes reading all safety rules and instructions before operation. It highlights warnings regarding rotating parts, engine exhaust, fueling procedures, and bystand safety (keeping people at least 75 feet away).
• Adjustable Handle: The handle assembly can be adjusted to the desired height using a handle adjustment crank, enhancing user comfort and control.
• Depth Control: The depth stake allows users to easily adjust the tilling depth for different tasks, from shallow cultivation (1" depth) to deep tilling (highest depth stake position). Side shields are also adjustable in conjunction with the depth stake.
• Multiple Drive Modes: The gear selection handle offers Neutral, Reverse (reverse wheel drive only), Wheels Forward (forward wheel drive only), and Tines Reverse (forward wheel drive and reverse tine drive) modes, providing versatility for various tilling conditions and transport.
• Clutch Engagement: A clutch handle engages the wheel and tine drive mechanisms. The manual advises against shifting gears with the clutch handle engaged, except when engaging the tines.
• Engine Controls: Features include a choke lever (for cold starts), a primer (for cold starts), and a throttle control lever (for engine speed and stopping). A fuel shut-off valve (if equipped) is used to turn fuel ON/OFF.
• First-Time Use: For initial tilling, the manual recommends using the second adjustment hole from the top (1" tilling depth) and tilling the garden twice (lengthwise, then widthwise) for best results.
• Transport: For transport, the tines should not be engaged, and the depth stake should be lowered to the top adjustment hole.

Maintenance Features:

• Engine Maintenance: Users are directed to a separate engine manual for detailed instructions on engine oil, air cleaner service (every ten hours under normal conditions, hourly in dusty conditions), spark plug cleaning/replacement (every 25 hours or at the start of each season), and general engine cleaning.
• Lubrication:
  • Transmission: Pre-lubricated and sealed; requires Benalene 920 grease if disassembled.
  • Clutch Handle & Cable: Pivot point and cable should be lubricated at least once a season with light oil.
  • Pivot Points & Linkages: All pivot points and linkages should be lubricated at least once a season with light oil.
  • Tine Shafts: Lubricate at least once a season.
  • Wheel Shafts: Remove wheel assemblies and lubricate axle shafts at least once a season.
• Belt Tension Adjustment: Periodic adjustment is required due to normal stretch and wear. Instructions for adjusting belt tension are provided in the "Final Clutch Adjustment" section of the assembly instructions.
• Tire Pressure Check: Regular checks are necessary to maintain recommended operating pressure (14 p.s.i. for 14-inch tires, 20 p.s.i. for 16-inch tires, max 30 p.s.i.). Equal pressure should be maintained on both tires.
• Cleaning: The underside of the tine shield should be cleaned after each use, and the tines rinsed off. The tiller should be towel-dried and a light coat of oil or silicone applied to prevent rust. Crucially, pressure washers are not recommended for cleaning.
• Off-Season Storage: For storage longer than 30 days, the tiller should be thoroughly cleaned, lubricated, and the engine prepared according to its manual. Tines should be wiped with an oiled rag. The tiller should be stored in a clean, dry area, away from corrosive materials. Rustproofing with light oil or silicone is recommended for unventilated or metal storage sheds.
• Parts Replacement: Emphasizes using Factory Approved Parts, especially for V-BELTS, to ensure safe operation.
• Troubleshooting Guide: A dedicated section helps users diagnose and resolve common issues, such as engine failure to start, erratic engine operation, engine overheating, and tines/wheels not engaging. For complex repairs, users are advised to contact an authorized service dealer.

MTD 401 Series Specifications