Throttle Control: The throttle control lever adjusts the engine speed and stops the engine. With the throttle control lever pushed completely forward, the carburetor is in START position. Pulling the throttle control back slightly adjusts the engine speed to FAST. Pulling the throttle back further reduces the engine speed to SLOW. Pull the throttle completely back to stop the engine.

Use maximum engine speed for deep tilling. Move the throttle control to SLOW when transporting the tiller.

Transporting The Tiller

To transport the tiller to or from the garden, pivot the depth stake forward, out of the way. See Figure 12. With the throttle control in SLOW position, the unit will walk freely on top of the lawn. If the operator does not allow the tiller to move freely, the unit will start to till the surface.

Cultivating

For cultivating, a two to three inch depth is desirable. Setting the wheels and depth stake so that the wheels are about two inches above the ground while the tiller is resting on the tines and depth stake will allow the machine to work at cultivating depth. The throttle should be set to control forward movement to a slow walking speed. With the outer tines installed, the working width of the machine is 22 or 24 inches. For cultivation, this may be reduced to 13 inches by removing the outer tines. Refer to Tine Width Adjustment in Adjustment section. When laying out plant rows, be sure to allow enough width to permit cultivation between the rows. In growing corn or similar crops, check-row planting will permit cross cultivation and practically eliminate hand hoeing.

Figure 14

The tiller has many uses other than tilling and cultivating a garden. One of these is the preparation of lawn area for seeding. The tiller will prepare a deep seed bed which will be free of hard untilled spots, allowing a better stand of grass to grow. The tiller is very useful for loosening hard soil for excavation with a shovel. No tedious hand pickwork will be necessary. Your tiller may be used for mixing compost in the pile, or for mixing it with the soil in your garden. This should be done after the soil has been broken to the full working depth. The compost should be worked in to a depth of six to seven inches. This may be done by working the length of the garden, and then by making separate passes across its width. The addition of decayed organic matter will substantially increase the fertility of your garden. For proper decaying action, fertilizer should be applied and worked in with the mulch materials. Breaking up leaves and straw and mixing it with several inches of soil causes the soil to hold moisture longer and allows proper aeration of the plant root system. This also retards the growth of weeds.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and various state and local agencies offer published booklets and expert advice on all phases of gardening. They should be consulted regarding soil information, planting dates, and the most satisfactory varieties of crop for your particular area.

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MTD 390 Shown manual Transporting The Tiller, Cultivating
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390 Shown specifications

The MTD 390 is a notable product in the range of powerful and efficient garden tools designed for both professional landscapers and avid gardeners. This versatile machine is engineered to tackle various landscaping tasks with precision and ease. Its combination of robust design, cutting-edge technologies, and user-friendly features make it an essential tool for maintaining pristine gardens and outdoor spaces.

At the heart of the MTD 390 is its powerful engine that provides reliable performance. The engine is designed for optimal efficiency, ensuring that users can complete their tasks without unnecessary downtime. With a displacement that allows for high torque and consistent power delivery, the MTD 390 easily handles thick grass and dense foliage.

One of the standout features of the MTD 390 is its advanced blade technology. The cutting deck is equipped with precision-engineered blades that provide a clean and even cut, promoting healthy growth in lawns and gardens. The adjustable cutting height allows users to customize their mowing experience, accommodating different grass types and seasonal requirements. This flexibility ensures that every user can achieve the desired lawn appearance.

In addition to its cutting capabilities, the MTD 390 emphasizes comfort and usability. The ergonomic handle design minimizes strain during operation, allowing for extended periods of use without discomfort. The lightweight construction of the machine makes it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. Features such as quick-release systems for the cutting deck further enhance the convenience, making maintenance straightforward.

Technology plays a crucial role in the MTD 390's functionality. The machine is equipped with innovative start systems that ensure a swift ignition process, eliminating the frustrations often associated with traditional pull-start mechanisms. Furthermore, the design incorporates efficient fuel consumption, minimizing operating costs while maintaining powerful performance.

Durability is another key characteristic of the MTD 390. The robust frame and high-quality materials used in its construction ensure that it withstands the rigors of frequent use. Whether dealing with challenging terrains or changing weather conditions, the MTD 390 is built to endure, making it a long-term investment for users.

In summary, the MTD 390 stands out as a premium choice for anyone looking to enhance their gardening experience. Its powerful engine, advanced cutting technology, ergonomic design, and durable construction make it a reliable companion for achieving beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you're a professional landscaper or a weekend warrior, the MTD 390 is equipped to handle all your gardening needs with efficiency and ease.
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