12Section 4: Operation

(b)Use the recoil starter rope to start the engine as instructed in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual. When the engine starts, gradually move the choke lever (if used) to the OPEN, CHOKE OFF or RUN position.

(c)Put the engine throttle lever in the FAST setting when tilling.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

1.To stop the wheels and tines, release the Forward Clutch Control Levers.

2.To stop the engine, move the engine switch to the OFF position (if time allows, first move the engine throttle lever to the SLOW position).

3.Turn the fuel valve (if so equipped) to the OFF position.

OPERATING THE TILLER

The following pages provide guidelines to using your tiller effectively and safely in

WARNING

Before tilling, contact your telephone or utilities company and inquire if underground equipment or lines are on your property.

various gardening applications. Be sure to read Tilling Tips & Techniques in this section before you actually put the tines into the soil.

NOTE: This is a traditional “standard rotat- ing tine” tiller with forward rotating tines. It operates completely differently from CRT (Counter Rotating Tines) tillers or from low-cost front tine tillers.

1.Follow the Pre-Start Checklist on the previous page. Be sure that the Wheel Gear Lever is in the ENGAGE position.

2.Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the “travel” position (lever all the way down) so that the tines clear the ground. Use this position when practicing with or transporting the tiller. When you are ready to begin tilling, move the Depth Regulator Lever to the desired depth setting (see Tilling Tips & Techniques).

3.Start the engine and allow it to warm up. When warm, put throttle control in FAST speed setting.

WARNING

Do not push down on the handlebars to make the tiller till more deeply. This prevents the wheels from holding tiller back and can allow the tines to rapidly propel the tiller forward, which could result in loss of control, property damage, or personal injury.

4.FORWARD MOTION of the wheels and tines:

(a)Pull up and hold one or both of the Forward Clutch Control Levers against the handlebars. To stop the wheels and tines, release both levers.

(b)As the tiller moves forward, relax and let the wheels pull the unit along while the tines dig. Walk behind and a little to one side of the tiller. Use a light but secure grip with one hand on the han- dlebars, but keep your arm loose. See Figure 4-2. Let the tiller move ahead at its own pace. Do not push down on the handlebars to try and force the tiller to dig deeper – this takes weight off the wheels, reduces traction, and causes the tines to try and propel the tiller.

Figure 4-2: Guiding the tiller with one hand.

5.Moving the unit rearward:

(a)Look behind and exercise caution when pulling the machine toward you.

Do not till when reversing.

(b)Stop all tiller motion by releasing the Forward Clutch Control Levers.

(c)Stop the engine.

(d)Shift the Wheel Gear Lever into the DISENGAGE (freewheel) position. Lift the handlebars with one hand until the tines are off the ground and then pull the unit rearward.

6.To turn the tiller around:

(a)Practice turning in a level, open area. Be very careful to keep your feet and legs away from the tines.

(b)To start a turn, reduce the engine speed and then lift the handlebars until the engine and tines are balanced over the wheels (Figure 4-3).

Figure 4-3: Find balance point before turning.

(c)With tiller balanced, push sideways on handlebar to move tiller in direction of the turn (Figure 4-4). After complet- ing the turn, slowly lower the tines into the soil and increase the engine speed.

Figure 4-4: Push handlebars sideways to turn tiller.

STOPPING THE TILLER AND ENGINE

1.To stop the wheels and tines, release the Forward Clutch Control Levers.

2.To stop the engine, move the engine switch to the OFF position.

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Bolens 12226 Operating the Tiller, Stopping the Engine, Stopping the Tiller and Engine, Do not till when reversing

12226 specifications

The Bolens 12226 is a powerful and versatile two-stage snowblower designed to tackle heavy snowfall and icy conditions with ease. It stands out in the market for its robust construction and innovative technologies, making it an essential tool for homeowners living in regions prone to harsh winter weather.

At the heart of the Bolens 12226 is its reliable 208cc PowerMore engine, engineered for maximum performance and durability. The engine's 4-cycle design ensures efficient fuel use while providing ample torque to handle the toughest of snow. This snowblower features a 26-inch clearing width, allowing it to clear large swathes of snow in a single pass, significantly reducing the time spent on snow removal.

One of the standout characteristics of the Bolens 12226 is its two-stage snow clearing system. In the first stage, the auger collects snow and ice, which is then propelled into the second stage, where an impeller throws the snow out of the chute. This efficient design is ideal for tackling heavy, compacted snow and can easily handle drifts and deeper accumulations.

The snowblower's adjustable chute can rotate up to 200 degrees, allowing the user to direct the snow exactly where they want it to go. The built-in deflector provides further customization, enabling operators to control the height of the discharge, whether they’re clearing a driveway or a sidewalk. This flexibility ensures that users can adapt to various snow conditions and landscapes.

For ease of operation, the Bolens 12226 includes a self-propelled feature with six forward speeds and two reverse speeds, offering comfortable maneuverability across diverse terrains. The large, deep-tread tires enhance traction, providing stability and control even on icy surfaces.

Safety and convenience are key features as well; the snowblower comes equipped with an electric start for hassle-free ignition, eliminating the need for strenuous pull starts in cold weather. Additionally, the ergonomic control panel allows for easy operation, ensuring that users have a comfortable experience while tackling winter challenges.

In summary, the Bolens 12226 is a well-engineered snowblower that merges power and ease of use. With its robust engine, efficient two-stage clearing system, adjustable chute, and user-friendly features, it is an invaluable tool for anyone needing to maintain a clear and safe outdoor space during snowy months. Its thoughtful design and reliable performance make it a standout choice for winter weather preparedness.