WARNING: Before inspecting, cleaning or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop, disconnect spark plug wire and move wire away from spark plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.
FORWARD CLUTCH
BAIL ADJUSTMENT
If the Forward Clutch Bail does not func- tion properly, first check that the forward drive belt is adjusted properly (see Check- ing and Adjusting Forward Drive Belt Ten- sion). If this fails to correct the problem, contact
CHECKING AND ADJUSTING RE- VERSE DRIVE BELT TENSION
(Models 643B & 645A only)
It is important to maintain correct tension on the reverse drive belt. A loose belt will cause the tines and wheels to slow down – or stop completely – even though the en- gine is running at full speed.
When checking belt tension, also check the belt for cracks, cuts or frayed edges and replace it as soon as possible.
•Check belt tension after the first two hours of
To Check Reverse Belt Tension:
1.Stop engine, wait for all parts to stop moving and disconnect spark plug wire.
2.Remove screw in plastic belt cover and slide belt cover (which is attached to for- ward clutch cable) out of the way.
3.Have an assistant pull the Reverse Clutch Control knob all the way out and hold it in that position. Measure the length of the cable wire between the end of the threaded cable adjuster (A, Figure
4.The belt tension is ideal if the cable wire length measures between 1/8" to 1/4". If it is less than 1/8" (and if there is no reverse ac- tion when the tiller is running), then make the following adjustments
NOTE: If the length is more than 1/4", no ad- justment is
5.Release the Reverse Clutch Control knob.and then unthread the inner jam nut (C, Figure
6.Prevent the inner jam nut (C) from turn- ing and tighten the outer jam nut (D) against the bracket. Prevent the outer jam nut (D) from turning and tighten the inner jam nut (C) against the bracket.
7.Measure the gap by repeating Step 3. Readjust as needed by repeating Steps 5 and 6.
8.Reinstall the belt cover.
A B
Figure 5-5: Measure cable wire length to check for correct reverse belt tension.
D C A
Figure 5-6: Move threaded adjuster (A) to left to increase belt tension.
Replacement Belt Information
If the drive belt needs to be replaced, see your local authorized dealer or refer to the Parts List for ordering information. Use only a
ENGINE CLEANING
Keeping the engine clean will help to en- sure smooth operation and prevent dam- age from overheating. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for engine cleaning ser- vice intervals and instructions. Be sure that the muffler is cool before servicing the engine.
AIR CLEANER SERVICE
The air cleaner filters dirt and dust out of the air before it enters the carburetor. Op- erating the engine with a dirty, clogged air filter can cause poor performance and damage to the engine. Never operate the engine without the air cleaner installed. In- spect and service the air cleaner more of- ten if operating in very dusty or dirty conditions. Refer to the engine Owner’s Manual for air cleaner service intervals and instructions.
ENGINE OIL SERVICE
Check the engine oil level before each use and after every five hours of continuous operation. Running the engine when it is low on oil will quickly ruin the engine.
It is recommended that you change the motor oil after every 10 hours of operation and even sooner when operating in ex- tremely dirty or dusty conditions. Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for detailed service instructions.
A. To Check the Engine Oil Level:
1.Park the tiller on a level area and shut off the engine.
2.Level the engine (use the Depth Regula- tor Lever to adjust the engine angle).
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