Introduction BREAK-IN Operation, Pre-Start Checklist

Operating Your Tiller

WARNING

The tine clutch control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.

Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

Keep hands and feet away from the tines. Refer to warning label on the unit.

WARNING: Before operating your machine, carefully read and under- stand all safety (Section 1), controls (Section 3) and operating instruc- tions (Section 4) in this Manual, the separate Engine Owner’s Manual, and on the decals on the machine.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury.

INTRODUCTION

Read this Operation Section and the separate Engine Owner’s Manual before you start the engine. Then, take the time to familiarize yourself with the basic operation of the tiller before using it in the garden. Find an open, level area and practice using the tiller controls without the tines engaging the soil (put tines in “travel” setting). Only after you’ve become completely familiar with the tiller should you begin using it in the garden.

BREAK-IN OPERATION

Perform the following maintenance after the first two (2) hours of new operation (see Maintenance Section in this manual and in the Engine Owner’s Manual).

1.Change engine oil.

2.Check for loose or missing hardware on unit. Tighten or replace as needed.

3.Check tension on forward drive belt.

4.Check transmission gear oil level.

STARTING AND STOPPING

Pre-Start Checklist

With the spark plug wire disconnected from the spark plug, perform the following checks and services before each use:

1.Read the Safety and Controls Sections in this manual. Read the separate Engine Owner’s Manual provided with the unit.

2.Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position (wheel pins must be through holes in wheel hubs and wheel shaft).

3.Check unit for loose or missing hardware. Service as required.

4.Check engine oil level. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

5.Check that all safety guards and covers are in place.

6.Check air cleaner and engine cooling system. See Engine Owner’s Manual.

WARNING: GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE AND ITS VAPORS ARE EXPLOSIVE. Follow gasoline safety rules in this Manual (see Section 1) and in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual.

Failure to follow gasoline safety instructions can result in serious personal injury and property damage.

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Figure 4-1:Tiller features and controls. See separate Engine Owner’s Manual to identify engine controls.

7.Fill the fuel tank with gasoline according to the direc- tions in the separate Engine Owner’s Manual. Follow all instructions and safety rules carefully.

8.Attach spark plug wire to spark plug.

Starting the Engine

The following steps describe how to start and stop the engine.

WARNING: Do not attempt to engage the tines or wheels until you have read all of the operating instructions in this Section. Also, review the safety rules in Section 1: Safety, and the tiller and engine controls information in Section

3:Features and Controls.

1.Complete the Pre-Start Checklist on this page.

2.Put the wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position (see Wheel Drive Pins in Section 3 of this manual).

WARNING: To help prevent serious personal injury or damage to equip- ment:

•Before starting engine, put both wheels in the WHEEL DRIVE position. Never have wheels in FREEWHEEL position when engine is running.

When the wheels are in FREEWHEEL, they do not hold back the tiller and the tines could propel the tiller rapidly forward or backward.

•Before starting engine, put Forward Clutch Bail (all models) and Reverse Clutch Control (Models 643B & 645A only) in neutral (disengaged) posi- tions by releasing levers.

•Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

•Avoid engine muffler and nearby areas. Tempera- tures in these areas may exceed 150° F.

643B, 643C, 645A specifications

The Bolens 645A, 643C, and 643B are celebrated models in the lineup of Bolens garden tractors, known for their durability and versatility. These machines, produced during the 1970s and 1980s, are vintage favorites for homeowners and garden enthusiasts seeking rugged equipment for their gardening needs.

The Bolens 645A is especially noted for its robust build and powerful performance. Equipped with a 7-horsepower engine, the 645A can tackle a variety of tasks, from mowing to snow removal, making it a multipurpose tool in any garden or landscape. One of the main features of the 645A is its hydrostatic transmission, which allows for seamless speed adjustments, providing exceptional maneuverability in tight spaces and varied terrain.

Similarly, the Bolens 643C and 643B models boast impressive features and capabilities. The 643C is renowned for its compact yet powerful 6-horsepower engine. It includes a gear-driven transmission, which offers reliable power transfer and increased efficiency while operating under demanding conditions. The steady performance of the 643C makes it ideal for smaller properties, where precision and control are paramount.

The 643B, while slightly less powerful than its sibling, still holds its own with a solid 5-horsepower engine. It is particularly favored for its ease of use and relatively low maintenance requirements, making it a perfect choice for casual gardeners or those new to the world of garden tractors. Its straightforward controls and simple mechanisms ensure that users can quickly learn to operate it proficiently.

All three models are engineered with a focus on user comfort. The seating is designed ergonomically, allowing users to operate for extended periods without discomfort. Additionally, the accessibility for maintenance tasks is a notable characteristic, ensuring that both professional and amateur gardeners can perform regular upkeep with ease.

In terms of technology, these models utilize straightforward mechanical designs with minimal electronic components, which reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and simplifies repairs. The rugged construction of the chassis and attachments demonstrates Bolens' commitment to longevity and resilience, making these tractors a solid investment for any gardening enthusiast.

In summary, the Bolens 645A, 643C, and 643B models stand out in the garden tractor market due to their powerful engines, user-friendly designs, and robust construction. They represent a blend of efficiency and reliability, catering to a wide range of gardening tasks and maintaining a loyal following among vintage equipment enthusiasts.

Bolens 643B, 643C Introduction BREAK-IN Operation, Starting and Stopping, Pre-Start Checklist

Models: 643B 643C 645A