User manual MTD OEM-290-264

[. . . ] • Keep all safety devices and shields in place. • Never allow children or uninstructed adults to operate the machine. • Shut off engine and disconnect spark plug wire before unclogging tines or making repairs. [. . . ] • Place the machine on a hard, level surface. • Tilt the machine forward until it rests on the front of the engine, or until it rests on the two carrying handle tubes (if equipped) at the front of the engine. • Remove and save the hardware (refer to Figures 3 and 4) that secures the four tines to the tine shafts. • Slide off and save the four tines. For easier reinstallation, keep the left-side and right-side tine sections separated from each other and mark them LEFT and RIGHT. If necessary, refer to the Maintenance Section in your Owner’s Manual for more detailed information on tine removal. • Clean the steel tine shafts and inspect for any rust or burrs (use fine-grade sandpaper to remove rust or burrs). Apply a thin coating of general purpose oil to the tine shafts. G H J Figure 5: Some models are equipped with a depth adjustment knob and wheel bracket assembly. 2 1. 3. 2. 4. Figure 6: This model tiller/edger uses a threaded knob to secure the tines. Figure 8 Figure 9 Operation Figure 7: This model tiller/edger uses a hairpin cotter to secure the tines. Some models use a ring lock pin instead of a hairpin cotter. • Move the machine outdoors and start the engine (see the “OPERATION” section in your Owner’s Manual for specific starting instructions). IMPORTANT: USE SLOWER ENGINE SPEEDS AND A SHALLOW DEPTH OF CUT WHEN FIRST LEARNING TO USE THE AERATOR ATTACHMENT. • The depth of cut is primarily controlled by the amount of upward or downward pressure applied to the handlebar. Upward pressure will result in a deeper cut; downward pressure will result in a more shallow cut. NOTE: On models equipped with a depth adjustment knob (G, Figure 5), the height setting of the wheel bracket also helps to determine the cutting depth. A higher setting will result in a deeper cut; a lower setting will result in a shallower cut. NOTE: On models equipped with a drag stake (not illustrated), the height setting of the drag stake affects cutting depth. Start with the third hole up from the bottom and adjust the drag stake from there, as needed. [. . . ] The Power Rake attachment (available from your dealer or the factory) works well for this purpose. • The depth of cut is determined by a number of factors, including: soil conditions; the height setting of the wheel bracket (if equipped) or the drag stake (if equipped); the ground travel speed; the engine speed; and the amount of pressure applied to the handlebars. Be patient while learning to use your aerator attachment – you may have to experiment to find that “just right” combination for your particular lawn. CAUTION TO AVOID INJURY: • Do not operate machine when you are barefoot or when wearing sandals, sneakers, or similar lightweight footwear. [. . . ]