OPERATOR / PARTS MANUAL

OPERATOR / PARTS MANUALCLASSIC 4-CYCLE TILLER

IMPORTANT!Assembly Instructions Start on Page 6!

Please review the Warnings & Safety Information on pages 3-5and the Assembly Instructions before unpacking the box.

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Here’s your new MANTIS Classic 4-Cycle Tiller . . . the lightweight wonder that’s Changing the Way Americans Garden.®

Unlike big tillers, your MANTIS Tiller weighs only 24 pounds. So it lifts easily, handles smoothly, tills and weeds precisely.And, unlike other small tillers, it features serpentine tines that churn soil to ten inches deep. It creates a soft, smooth seedbed, even in problem soil.

Once you know how to use your tiller correctly, we guarantee you’ll love it. So first, please read this manual. It shows, step by step, how to use your tiller safely. Plus, it shows how the MANTIS Border Edger can make light work of youredging needs.

If you have questions about any topic in this Manual, or for the name of your local dealer, call 1-800-366-6268 toll free,Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Eastern Time. Dealers can also be located online at www.mantis.com.

Attention MANTIS Product Owners! Get maintenance tips for your MANTIS product on our website at ww.mantis.com.

Schiller Grounds Care, Inc.1028 Street Road

Southampton, PA 18966-4217Phone: 1-800-366-6268 • Fax (215) 956-3855

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Table of ContentsSafety Rules & Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Engine & Fuel Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-10Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Getting to Your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Tilling & Cultivating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-15Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Using the Border Edger Attachment . . . . . . . . .18Tiller Parts Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Engine Parts Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Limited Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Welcome to the World of Mantis Gardening

Classic 4-Cycle Tiller Operator/Parts Manual

This Operator’s / Parts Manual is part of the machine. Suppliers of both new andsecond-hand machines must make sure that this manual is provided with themachine.

IMPORTANT MESSAGEThank you for purchasing this Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product. You have purchased a world class product, one of the best designed and built anywhere.

This machine comes with Operation and Safety instructions, Parts and Service instructions and Engine instructions. The useful life and good serviceyou receive from this machine depends to a large extent on how well you read and understand these manuals. Treat your machine properly, lubricateand adjust it as instructed, and it will give you many years of reliable service.

Your safe use of this Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product is one of our prime design objectives. Many safety features are built in, but we also rely onyour good sense and care to achieve accident-free operation. For best protection, study the manuals thoroughly. Learn the proper operation of allcontrols. Observe all safety precautions. Follow all instructions and warnings completely. Do not remove or defeat any safety features. Make surethose who operate this machine are as well informed and careful in its use as you are.

See a Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. dealer for any service or parts needed. Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. service ensures that you continue to receive the best results possible from Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. products. You can trust Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. replacement parts because they aremanufactured with the same high precision and quality as the original parts.

Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. designs and builds its equipment to serve many years in a safe and productive manner. For longest life, use this machineonly as directed in the manuals, keep it in good repair and follow safety warnings and instructions. You’ll always be glad you did.

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Safety Rules & WarningsYou will notice Safety Rules and Important Notes throughout this Operator/Parts Manual. Make sure youunderstand and obey these warnings for your own protection.

I. Special Safety Information

WARNING • DANGERATTENTION: THIS SYMBOL POINTS OUT

OUR IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

WHEN YOU SEE THIS SYMBOL,

HEED IT’S WARNING!! STAY ALERT!!

WARNING • DANGERTO REDUCE THE POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENTS, COMPLY

WITH THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.

FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL

INJURY, AND/OR EQUIPMENT AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.

WARNING • DANGERIMPROPER USE OR CARE OF THIS TILLER

OR FAILURE TO WEAR PROPER PROTECTION

CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL.

WEAR HEARING AND EYE PROTECTION.

II. Safety & Warnings

!

WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals knownto the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

!

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!!

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Contact us at www.mantis.com

DON’T FUEL, REFUEL, ORCHECK FUEL WHILESMOKING, OR NEAR ANOPEN FLAME OR OTHERIGNITION SOURCE.

INCORRECT ASSEMBLY.CAUTION: WHENASSEMBLING THE HANDLES,MAKE SURE FUEL TANK FACESAWAY FROM OPERATOR. THISIS THE REAR OF THE TILLER,REFER TO ASSEMBLYINSTRUCTION ON PAGE 7.

CUTTING HAZARD; KEEPFEET AND HANDS AWAYFROM ROTATING TINES.

WEAR EAR AND EYEPROTECTION.

READ OWNER’S MANUALBEFORE USING TILLER, ORPERFORMING ANY REPAIROR MAINTENANCE. KEEPOWNERS MANUAL IN ASAFE PLACE.

DO NOT CARRY THE TILLERIN THIS POSITION.

WARNING • DANGERIF THE TILLER IS USED IMPROPERLY OR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT FOLLOWED,

THE USERS RISK SERIOUS INJURY TO THEMSELVES AND OTHERS.

READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS TILLER.

! !

An important part of the safety system incorporated in this tiller are thewarning and information decals found on various parts of the tiller. These

decals must be replaced in time due to abrasion, etc. It is your responsibility toreplace these decals when they become hard to read. The location and part

numbers (P/N) of these decals are illustrated below.

III. Safety Decal Information

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P/N 400620

P/N 400609

IV. Warnings - Do’s Read and understand theOperator/Parts manual. Pay particularattention to all sections regarding safety.1. Always keep a firm grip on bothhandles while the tines are movingand/or the engine is running. BEAWARE!! The tines may coast afterthrottle trigger is released. Make suretines have come to a complete stop and engine is off before letting go of the tiller.

2. Alwaysmaintain a firm footing andgood balance. Do not overreach whileoperating the tiller. Before you start touse the tiller, check the work area forobstacles that might cause you to loseyour footing, balance or control of the machine.

3. Thoroughly inspect the area whereequipment is to be used and remove all objects, which can be thrown by the machine.

4. Always keep area clear of children, pets,and bystanders.

5. Always stay alert. Watch what you aredoing and use common sense. Do notoperate unit when fatigued.

6. Always dress properly. Do not wearloose clothing or jewelry, they might getcaught in moving parts. Use sturdygloves. Gloves reduce the transmissionof vibration to your hands. Prolongedexposure to vibration can causenumbness and other ailments.

7. While working, always wearsubstantial footwear and long trousers.Do not operate the equipment whenbarefoot or wearing open sandals.

8. Alwayswear ear and eye protection.Eye protection must meet ANSI Z 87.1.To avoid hearing damage, werecommend hearing protection be wornwhenever using the equipment.

9. To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine,and petrol/gas storage area free ofvegetative material and excessive grease.

10. Start the engine carefully, according tothe manufacturer’s instructions andwith feet well away from tool(s).

11. Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight tobe sure the equipment is in safeworking condition.

12. Use extreme caution when reversingor pulling the machine towards you.

13. Work only in daylight or goodartificial light.

14. Always be sure of your footing onslopes.

15. Exercise extreme caution whenchanging direction on slopes.

16. Always keep a safe distance betweentwo or more people when workingtogether.

17. Always inspect your unit before eachuse and ensure that all handles, guardsand fasteners are secure, operating, andin place.

18. Always maintain and examine yourTiller with care. Follow maintenanceinstructions given in manual.

19. Always store tiller in a sheltered area(a dry place), not accessible tochildren. The tiller as well as fuelshould not be stored in a house.


V. Warnings - Don'ts Don’t use tiller with one hand.Keep both hands on handles withfingers and thumbs encircling thehandles, while tines are moving,and engine is running.

Don’t overreach. Keep a goodfooting at all times.

Don’t run with the machine,walk.

Don’t work on excessivelysteep slopes.

Don’t attempt to clear tineswhile they are moving. Never tryto remove jammed material beforeswitching the engine off andmaking sure the tines havestopped completely.

Don’t allow children orincapable people to operate thistiller.

Don’t operate while underthe influence of alcohol or drugs.

Don’t attempt to repair thistiller. Have repairs made by aqualified dealer or repairman. See that only original MANTISparts are used.

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WARNING • DANGERHANDLE FUEL WITH CARE, IT IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. FUELING A HOT ENGINE OR NEAR

AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN CAUSE A FIRE AND RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY

AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

! !

Always use fresh gasoline. Stalegasoline can cause damage.

Always store fuel in containersspecifically designed for thispurpose.

Always pull starter cord slowlyuntil resistance is felt. Then pull cordrapidly to avoid kickback and preventarm or hand injury.

Always operate engine with sparkarrestor installed and operatingproperly. The use of spark arrestormufflers is required by law in thestate of California (Section 4442 ofthe California Public ResourcesCode), as well as in other states ormunicipalities. Federal laws apply onfederal lands.

Stop the engine whenever youleave the machine.

Allow the engine to cool beforestoring in any enclosure.

If the fuel tank needs to bedrained, this should be doneoutdoors.

Don’t fuel, refuel or check fuelwhile smoking, or near an openflame or other ignition source. Stopengine and be sure it is cool beforerefueling.

Don’t leave the engine runningwhile the tiller is unattended. Stopengine before putting the tillerdown or while transporting fromone place to another.

Don’t refuel, start or run thistiller indoors or in an improperlyventilated area.

Don’t run engine when electricalsystem causes spark outside thecylinder. During periodical checks

of the spark plug, keep plug a safedistance from cylinder to avoidburning of evaporated fuel fromcylinder.

Don’t check for spark withspark plug or plug wire removed.Use an approved tester.

Don’t crank engine with sparkplug removed unless spark plugwire is disconnected. Sparks canignite fumes.

Don’t run engine when the odorof gasoline is present or otherexplosive conditions exist.

Don’t operate the unit ifgasoline is spilled. Clean up spill

completely before starting engine.

Don’t operate your tiller if thereis an accumulation of debris aroundthe muffler, and cooling fins.

Don’t touch hot mufflers,cylinders or cooling fins ascontact may cause serious burns.

Don’t change the enginegovernor setting or over speed theengine.

Don’t attempt to remove sparkplug while engine is hot. Removinga spark plug from a hot engine cancause irreparable damage to theengine and will void your warranty.

VI. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Do’s

VII. Engine/Fuel Warnings - Don’ts


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Your MANTIS Tiller comes partiallyassembled. You must install only thehandlebars, the carrying handle, and thetines. This will take just a few minutes ifyou follow the directions.

First, take all items out of the carton.But do not remove the cardboard fromaround the Tiller’s base.

The list at the right, shows the parts thatcome with your tiller. Check to make sureyou have them.

The bag of hardware is in the plastic bagcontaining the Operator/Parts Manual.

To assemble your MANTIS Tiller, you’llneed two 7/16" wrenches. We suggest thatyou install all nuts and bolts only “fingertight” — that is, one-half to one full turn — until you’ve completed assembly. Thenuts are self locking, but you must usea wrench to tighten them completely.

4039

8

42

20,21,55

1

2

653

Assembly

WARNING•DANGER

IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THIS TILLER

CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

MAKE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL

INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS

CONTACT OUR FACTORY AT

1-800-366-6268

OR AN AUTHORIZED

MANTIS DEALER

! !

Quantity Description *Key #

1 Upper Handle Assembly 2 1 Upper Handle Throttle Side Assembly 1 2 Lower Handles 6 1 Pair Tiller/Cultivator Tines 39,40 1 Engine Assembly (includes Fender Guard & Worm Gear Transmission) 20,21,55 1 Handle Brace 8 1 Plastic Carrying Handle 42 1 Bag of Hardware Containing: 2 Cap Screws 47 4 Lock Nuts 48 2 Bolts (3” long) 49 2 Tine Retaining Pins 41 2 Handle Clamps 51 1 Throttle Clips 13 2 Bolts 52 2 Knobs 53

*These numbers are the same numbers shown on the PartsLayout on page 19.


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Assembly (continued)

HOW TO ASSEMBLELOWER HANDLES To identify part numbers, seepages 6 and 19.

1. Use the protective cardboardsleeve to stabilize your tiller.Stand the engine assembly (#21)up. (Picture 1)

2. Lay the handle parts within easyreach. You’ll need one of thehandle clamps (#51) and one ofthe lower handles (#6). Note thatthe lower handles have a short legon one end.

3. Fit the handle clamp along theoutside of the short leg. Line upthe holes on the clamp and the leg.

4. Choose one of the two 3-inchbolts (#49). Slide it through thefirst set of holes — near theelbow where the lower handlecurves. (Pictures 2 & 3)

5. Now slide the other lower handleonto the 3-inch bolt. Fit the other

clamp onto this otherhandle’s short leg. Add a nutand tighten finger tight.(Picture 3)

6. Locate the worm gearhousing. It starts just above— and extends down through— the tiller’s red fenderguard. You’ll notice thatthere’s a recessed channel oneither side of the housing’s top.(Picture 4.)

7. Take the lower handles that you’vejust put together. Slide them intothe two recessed channels.(Picture 5.)

Make sure you insert them fromthe rear of the tiller (gasoline tankfaces away from the operator)... sothat the bolt fits along the back ofthe housing.

8. Slide the second 3-inch boltthrough the second set of holes inthe short legs. Add a nut andtighten finger tight.

Picture 1

Picture 2

Picture 3 Picture 4 Picture 5

NOTE: THE LOCK NUTS ARE STAMPED. FINGER TIGHT ISAPPROXIMATELY 1/2 TO 1-1/2 TURNS.


WARNING • DANGERREMOVE TINES BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

AND MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.

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Assembly (continued)How to Assemble UpperHandles and CarryingHandle 1. Lightly squeeze the lowerhandles (#6) toward oneanother so that they line upwith the two smaller holes onthe carrying handle (#42).Then slide the carrying handleover and down the lowerhandles. It will rest about fourto six inches above the fender.(Picture 1)

2. Gently pull the lower handlesout to their original position.

3. Attach the upper handleassembly (#1) – the handle withthe throttle cable and groundwire – onto the right lowerhandle, and secure with thehandle knob (#53). (Picture 2

and 3) Be sure you haveproper throttle movementsand that the throttle cable isnot wrapped or twistedaround the handle bar.Locate the red lockout buttonlocated on the throttle handle(Picture 3). Press the redlockout button and squeeze thethrottle lever and let go. Thetriangle must click in bothdirections. If there is anydoubt, remove air filter andvisually check that the throttletriangle hits both the idle screwand the full open stop.

THIS MUST BE DONEBEFORE STARTING THEENGINE.

4. Follow the same steps to installthe other upper handle onto theother lower handle. (Picture 3)

5. Use the clip (#13) to secure thethrottle cable and wire in placeon the lower handle. (Picture 4)

6. Now install the Handle Brace.Line it up with the holes on theupper handles. Then insert aCap Screw and a Lock Nut oneither side (Picture 5)

7. Use a wrench to tighten CapScrews and Lock Nuts.

8. Now use wrench to tighten allnuts and bolts firmly andsecurely.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Make sure you have installedthe handles properly. When youstand behind your tiller, holdingthe handles, the gas tank isfacing away from you, on thefront side of the engine.

Picture 3Picture 2

Picture 1

Picture 4 Picture 5

WARNING:Improper throttle installation can causetines to rotate unexpectedly .

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Assembly (continued)Assembling the Tinesfor Tilling1. Remove the cardboard fromaround your Tiller’s base.

2. Slide the tines onto the axleshafts. The “D” hole goes on theoutside. (Picture 1)

3. Make sure you’ve installed thetines properly for tilling. Likenthe tines to your fingers. Whenyour palm faces the ground, yourfingers curl down. Stand behindthe Tiller and hold your hand nextto the tines. Do the tine bladescurl down, as your fingers do? Ifso, they are in the tilling position.(To switch to the cultivatingposition, see page 14.)

4. To secure each tine to the axle,insert a tine retaining pin.

IMPORTANT NOTE:Before starting your 4-Cycle/MANTIS Tiller, add thepremeasured (80ml) bottle of 4-Cycle engine oil. See MANTISClassic 4-Cycle Tiller EngineManual and information below fordetails.

IMPORTANT NOTE:Before you use your MANTIS Tiller, read the Safety Rules & Warnings on pages 3-5.

Checking the Oil Level inthe Engine’s Oil SumpIMPORTANT NOTE: Beforeusing your new MANTIS Classic 4-Cycle Tiller for the first time, it isimportant to check the oil level inthe engines oil sump. The bottle ofoil supplied with this machine holds80ml of the correct grade of engineoil. The sump of the engine holds80ml of oil.

Please follow the notes below forfull instructions how to check theoil level in the engine.

How to fill the engines oil sumpbefore using your new MANTISTiller:

1. Rock the tiller forward so that itrests on its fuel tank.

2. Remove the grey sump plug andtop up the oil using the correcttype of oil so that it is level withthe inner first thread of the sumpplug. (Picture 2)

Oil type 10W/40 or 20W/40 can be used if the specified grade isunavailable.

Picture 1

Picture 2

WARNING • DANGERFUEL IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. HANDLE IT WITH

CARE. KEEP AWAY FROM IGNITION SOURCES. DO NOT

SMOKE WHILE FUELING YOUR EQUIPMENT.

! !Never use starting fluids as theywill cause permanent engine

damage. Using them will void thewarranty. Before you use the

tiller, read the Safety & Warningrules on pages 3-6.

IMPORTANT NOTE:Check the oil level in the engine before each use. If oil is low,top it off with 10W-30 before using. See your MANTISClassic 4-Cycle Tiller Engine Manual and information above


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High pull force Handle locked in place

Engine must be resting on a flat surface on the fuel tank

This position does not allowfor a proper oil level readingand may cause overfilling.

Oil Overfill WarningDo not overfill! Adding too much ortoo little oil may cause damage to theengine and void the warranty.Overfilling may cause:

1. Hard starting or a locked piston -caused by excess oil in thecombustion chamber.

2. Poor engine performance and lossof power

3. Excessive smoke coming from themuffler and around the enginewhile running.

4. Oil leaking form thecarburetor/aircleaner.

5. Oil leaking from the muffler.

Corrective ActionIf you suspect the engine isoverfilled the followingprocedure should remove theexcess oil from the crankcase andvalve cover.

If the engine is overfilled, oilwill enter the crankcase and itdoes not simply pour out of theoil fill opening. The excessive oilhas to be pumped out as theengine runs. Checking the oil

level and draining any excessbetween multiple 30 secondrunning intervals will bring theoil back to the proper level.

1. Place the engine on a levelsurface resting flat on the fueltank and remove the oil fillcap/dipstick. Use a catch basinfor any oil that overflows fromthe oil fill opening.

2. Replace the oil fillcap/dipstick and run the

engine for approximately 30seconds then repeat step one.Continue steps 1 & 2 until oilno longer overflows when theoil fill cap/dipstick isremoved.

3. Once the oil level is correctedthe engine may continue tosmoke while running forseveral minutes while theresidual oil burns off.

Assembly (continued)

Proper Oil Fill/LevelCheck Position


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WARNINGAVOID ACCIDENTAL BLADE

ENGAGEMENT

DO NOT SQUEEZE THE THROTTLE

TRIGGER WHEN STARTING.

MAINTAIN PROPER IDLE SPEED

ADJUSTMENT (2500-3100 RPM)

TO START YOURTILLER FOR THEFIRST TIME:First, fill the fuel tank with theproper amount of gasoline (Usebranded 89 octane (R+M+2)unleaded gasoline or gasohol—maximum 10% ethyl alcohol, or15% MTBE, no methyl alcohol.)

MANTIS TillerStarting Instructions(4-Cycle engine)

Cold Engine1. Place the o/I switch into the I“start/on” position. (Picture 1)

2. Choke the engine (or closethe choke. Move choke up tothe closed position.) (Picture 2)

3. Push primer bulb 6 times.(Picture 3)

4. Pull grip slowly until you feelresistance then pull briskly.(Picture 4)

5. Once the engine is running,slowly push the choke lever

down to the run position—theengine will continue to run.(Picture 5)

Warm Engine1. Push ignition switch to I“start/on” position.

2. Pull grip slowly until you feelresistance then pull briskly.Make sure the choke is in theopen, or run, position.

NOTE: When the choke isclosed, never pull the cord morethan four or five times. Over-pulling may cause flooding.

Follow these steps whenever youare starting the engine “cold”, orwhen the engine has run dry andyou have just added fuel.Remember, always use short,brisk pulls. Don’t give the cord along, forceful yank. And, do notlet the cord snap back into thestarter housing.

Picture 4 Picture 5 Picture 6

Picture 1

Picture 2 Picture 3

Starting! !

How to Stop the Engine Simply push the o/I “stop/ start”switch to “o” (Picture 6). This willstop the engine instantly. If itshould ever fail to do so, just pullthe choke up to the closed position.The engine will stop at once.

About the Choke The choke controls the amount ofair drawn into the engine. Your tillerwill run only if the choke is open.

IMPORTANT!It is normal for your 4-Cycle engine to smoke for the first minute or two ofoperation, however it is notnecessary for this to occurevery time. This is a result ofthe oil being pulled throughthe engine for lubrication.

WARNING • DANGERIF ENGINE DOES NOT STOP WHEN SWITCH IS PUT IN THE STOP

POSITION, RELEASE THE THROTTLE, ALLOW ENGINE TO IDLE, PUT THE

TILLER DOWN AND PULL THE CHOKE BUTTON OUT TO SHUT ENGINE

DOWN. HAVE PRODUCT SERVICED BEFORE USING.

! !


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WARNING • DANGERIF ENGINE DOES NOT STOP WHEN SWITCH IS PUT IN THE STOP POSITION, RELEASE THE

THROTTLE, ALLOW ENGINE TO IDLE. PUT THE TILLER DOWN, AND SLIDE THE CHOKE LEVER FORWARD TO THE COLD START (CLOSED) POSITION.

CHECK AND RETURN IGNITION SWITCH TO ON POSITION BEFORE STARTING ENGINE AGAIN.

Additional Information

Walk it. Once your tiller is running, youcan “walk” it to your garden. Justpress the throttle lever gently andlet the tiller “tip-toe” across youryard on its tines. It won’t hurt yourlawn or driveway. (Picture 1)

Carry It. Make sure the engine is off.Then use one hand to grasp theconvenient carrying handle. Usethe other hand to hold thehandlebars. (Picture 2) Then liftyour tiller and carry it to yourgarden. Since it weighs only 24pounds, it won’t strain yourmuscles or tire you out!

Take It for a Ride. You can easily transport yourMANTIS Tiller to a friend’s orrelative’s house. Just empty thefuel tank. (This is crucial.) Thenstow your Tiller in the trunk ofyour car or truck. It fits easily.And you can put it in and take itout without straining your back.

How to get your tiller to your garden

Picture 1

Picture 2

Picture 3

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Picture 4 Picture 5

A Tip for Extending YourEngine’s Life After you start the engine, letyour tiller warm up for two to threeminutes before you use it. Then,before you put your tiller away, let itidle for a minute to give the enginea chance to cool down.

Operation With engine running, and bothhands on the handles, press thethrottle lock out button (Picture 4),then squeeze the throttle triggergradually to increase the enginespeed and engage the tines.

NOTE: This step must berepeated each time your tillertrigger is released.

NOTE: Once the throttle triggeris squeezed, you can release thelockout button (Picture 5).

Picture 7Picture 6

A Special Feature (with theidle set properly and theengine running) Even when the engine is running,the tines won’t turn unless you pressthe throttle lever on the handlebars.And, when you release the throttlelever, the tines will stop.

WARNINGNEVER CARRY YOUR TILLER ASTHE PERSON IN PICTURE 7 ISDOING. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL

SUFFER SERIOUS INJURY.

! !


Tilling

WARNING • DANGER

IF YOUR TINES GET JAMMED OR ENTANGLED, SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AT ONCE.

REMOVE THE OBSTRUCTION WHILE THE ENGINE IS OFF.

NEVER TRY TO REMOVE AN OBSTRUCTION WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

SERIOUS INJURY CAN RESULT.

! !

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TillingNow You’re Ready to UseYour MANTIS Tiller. If you’ve seen other tillers, yourMANTIS Tiller may surprise you. It tillsbest when you pull it backward! You see,when you pull your MANTIS Tillerbackward, you give extra resistance to thetines, so they dig deeper. (Picture 1)

What’s more when you go backward, youerase your footprints. So your soil stayslight and fluffy. With other tillers, bycontrast, you walk right over the soilyou’ve just tilled, packing it down, so it’sless plantable.

Run Your MANTIS Tiller likea Vacuum Cleaner. Place your Tiller at the head of the rowor area you want to till. Start it up. Thenuse an easy rocking motion. First, pullyour Tiller backward. Then use an easyrocking motion. Again, pull your Tillerbackward. Then, let it move forward just alittle bit. Then pull it backward again.This will help you till deeper.

Keep repeating these steps until you’vetilled an entire row. Start again on thenext row. It’s much like running a vacuumcleaner! (Picture 2)

You Can Even Control Depth.For Deeper Tilling:

Move your Tiller slowly back and forth,as you would a vacuum cleaner. Work thesame area over and over until you’ve dugto your desired depth. (Picture 3)

For Shallow Tilling:

Switch the tines to the cultivatingposition. (See page 10 to learn how.) Thenmove your Tiller quickly over your soilsurface.

For Big Weeds or Tough Roots:

Let your Tiller rock back and forth overthe tough spot, until the tines slicethrough the weed or root.

Your MANTIS Tiller HandlesSpecial Tilling Projects. Want to turn part of your lawn into acolorful flower border? Your MANTISTiller makes it easy! Just run your Tillerback and forth until the sod begins tobreak up. Then continue tilling. YourTiller will chop the clumps of sod untilthey’re fine. Then, it will work them intothe soil. Pretty soon, you’ll have a soft,fresh planting bed.

WARNING • DANGER

THE OPERATOR OF THIS TILLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR

ACCIDENTS OR HAZARDS OCCURRING TO HIMSELF, OTHER PEOPLE

OR THEIR PROPERTY.

Picture 1

Picture 2

Picture 3

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How about a family-size vegetable garden? Nowadays many gardenersprefer small gardens —especially in the suburbs, wherespace is at a premium. But, ifyou’re fortunate enough to own alarge lot, you can create a biggergarden — a half acre or more.

Although your MANTIS Tillercould handle the job, the projectcould be completed faster if youwere to hire someone with atractor or larger tiller to break theground for you. This is a one-time-only investment that’s wellworth the small cost.

Your MANTIS TillerMakes Weeding aPleasure! As a tiller, your MANTISTiller works the soil down to 10”(25.4 cm) deep. But, as acultivator, it gently cultivates thesurface, only 2" to 3" (5.09 cm to7.62 cm) deep.

First, you must switch the tinesto the weeding position. Thistakes less than a minute.

Then, your MANTIS Tiller’ssharp “tine teeth” will slice upthose pesky weeds, burying themas you go along. And, since thetines in this position won’t digtoo deep, they won’t hurt yourplants’ precious root systems.

The result? Your Tiller will cutyour weeding time in half, andturn a tiresome chore into apleasure.

How to Switch FromTilling to CultivatingPosition1. Make sure your Tiller is off.

2. Remove the retaining pinsfrom the tines. (Picture 2)

3. Remove the tines from the axle.

4. Place the right-side tine ontothe left-side axle. Place the leftside tine onto the right-sideaxle. The “D” hole should beto the outside.

5. Here is how to make sureyou’ve installed the tinesproperly. Stand behind theTiller and hold your hand,palm up, next to the tines. Dothe tine points curl up, as yourfingers do? If so, they are inthe correct cultivating position.(See photos on Page 14)

6. Reinsert the pins.

Picture 1 Picture 2

14

Tilling

IMPORTANTTo change the tines on your 4-Cycle MANTIS Tiller, pushthe tiller forward and allow it

to rest on the engine.

! !


15

Now You’re Ready toCultivate or Weed. Guide your Tiller where youwant to weed and start it up. Pullyour Tiller backward slowly, thenlet it move forward a bit, in agentle rocking motion. Watch itslice, shred, and bury thoseweeds!

Got tough weeds? Lighten yourpressure on the throttle to slowyour Tiller down. Then work backand forth until your Tiller chopsup the weeds. It’s easy andeffective!

Remember, any tiller willtangle in tall grass, stringy vines,or super-big weeds. So, if youhave a “backyard jungle,” first use a knife, pruner, or brush cutter to chop up the overgrowth.If the tines become tangledanyway, turn the engine offcompletely before trying to clear them.

The optional Tine Detangler(Item #1322) will clear tines in ajiffy. Contact your local authorizedMANTIS dealer or call 1-800-366-6268 to order.

Your MANTIS Tiller Will Weed BetweenNarrow Rows! Your MANTIS Tiller is aprecision weeder that easily fits intight places. So don’t be afraid toweed anywhere: between plantsand shrubs, in corners, againstfences, on raised beds, in widerows, even in very narrow rows.Your MANTIS Tiller weeds six*to nine inches wide. So you canrun it in a tightly planted garden

Cultivating

Tilling PositionTine teeth point in the same

direction as the rotation of thetine; or toward the front of theTiller, away from the operator.

Cultivating PositionTine teeth point in the

opposite direction as the rotationof the tine. Tines point toward theback of the tiller, or toward theoperator.

without damaging your delicateplants. That’s good news forsuburban gardeners, who oftenhave to plant rows close together!

*With optional Planter Furrower attachment.(Item #6222)


16

MaintenanceHow to Check the Grease Level Inside theWorm Gear Housing When we built your MANTIS Tiller, we lubricated the wormgear housing thoroughly.

It is imperative that you inspect the grease level once a year.Simply remove the cover plate on the worm gear housing.(Picture 1) Then check to make sure the grease comes almostto the top of the housing. If it doesn’t, add lithium #0 grease(Item M9985.) This is the only way to add grease to the wormgear housing. (Picture 1) To purchase MANTIS grease,contact your local authorized MANTIS dealer or call our SalesDepartment at 1-800-366-6268.

Please do not overfill. Too much grease can create pressure,which could cause seals to fail or the clutch to slip.

Picture 1

How to Reseat theFlange At some point, you may findthat the tines won’t turn whenyou press the throttle. This maymean the engine isn’t sitting allthe way down on the worm gearhousing.

Perhaps you’ve been usingyour Tiller for several years. Theflange bolt (Key #12, Page 18)may have come loose and liftedthe engine up.

If this happened you’ll noticea gap between the bottom of theengine flange (Key #43, Page18) and the top of the worm gearhousing. (Picture 2)

To fix this, loosen the flangebolt. Take the engine off theworm gear housing. Notice thehex head on top of the driveshaft (Key #22, Page 18). Insidethe flange housing, you’ll findthe clutch drum (Key #57, Page18). Make sure the hex head

lines up with the clutch druminside the flange housing.

Then put the engine back on theworm gear housing. Make sure theplastic carrying handle is notunder the engine.

If you’ve followed these stepsproperly, there will be no gapbetween the engine flange and theworm gear housing. (Picture 3)Make sure you tighten the flangebolt! Picture 2 … Note how the engine

doesn’t sit all the way down on thetransmission.

Picture 3… Note how theengine sits all the way down onthe transmission.


17

StorageWARNING • DANGER

DO NOT STORE IN AN AREA WHERE FUEL FUMES MAYACCUMULATE AND REACH A FLAME OR SPARK.

Each fall, or before you store yourMANTIS Tiller for any long period,be sure to take these measures:

1. Do not store your Tiller with fuelstill in it. Even under idealconditions, stored fuel containingethanol or MTBE can start to gostale in 30 days. And, since stalefuel has a high gum content, it canclog the carburetor, this, in turn,will restrict fuel flow. Therefore,when you’re ready to store yourTiller, or will not be using it formore than 2 weeks, drain the fueltank completely.

2. Next, restart the engine to makesure no fuel is left in thecarburetor. Then, run the engineuntil it stops. This will preventgum deposits, forming inside ofthe carburetor and possible enginedamage.

3. Disconnect spark plug wire andremove the spark plug. Slowlypull the starter cord once.

4. Inspect the spark plug, and ifnecessary, clean it. If you need toreplace it, buy a NGK-CMR5H.

5. Install the spark plug, but leavethe spark plug wire disconnected.

6. Clean the air filter as described inyour MANTIS Classic 4-CycleTiller Engine Manual.

7. Clean dirt, grass and othermaterials from the entire machine.

8.Wipe the tines with oil or spray

them with WD-40, to preventrusting.

9. Oil the throttle cable and allvisible moving parts. (Do notremove the engine cover.)

10. Replace the fuel filter.11. Check the grease level in the

worm gear housing as describedon page 15.

12. Order new MANTIS® parts toreplace any that are badly wornor broken call 1-800-366-6268.For Honda®, engine parts, pleasecontact your nearest Honda®

dealer.13. Store your Tiller in an upright

position in a clean, dry place. Youcan store with the handles in anextended position or folded down.

14. To fold the handles, follow theseeasy steps: Loosen the handleknobs (#40) then fold thehandles forward. Tighten knobsecurely. Your handles are nowfolded and ready to store in asmaller area.

15. Do you have fuel left over fromlast season? Dispose of itproperly. Buy fresh oil andgasoline next season.

16. Remove Tilling Tines orattachments and lightly oil tineshaft at least once a year.

You may store your MANTIS Tillerwith the handles upright as inPicture 1 or with the handles foldeddown, as in Picture 2.

Picture 1

Picture 2

! !

IMPORTANTIt is important to store your 4-Cycle MANTISTiller in an upright position. Laying the Tilleron its side will cause the oil to leak out of the

engine through the air cleaner case.

IMPORTANTAvoid any orientation that places the top cover(engine head) down -this may allow oil from thecrankcase to enter the combustion chamber and

cause hard starting or a locked piston.

! ! ! !


18

Your MANTIS Tiller has beendesigned and built to accept awide range of MANTIS TillerAttachments to increase itsusefulness in your lawn andgarden. And, all MANTIS TillerAttachments have been designedfor quick and easy attachment tothe Tiller or Engine.

The Border Edger (Item #3222)

The most popular attachment,the Border Edger can be used tocut clean, neat edges alongwalkways, or around trees, shrubs,and garden beds.

The Border Edger has twoparts: a wheel and a hardenedsteel blade, with pointed tines.

How to Install theBorder Edger The following instructions referto “right” and “left” axles.Assume that you’re standingbehind your Tiller, as you wouldfor tilling and cultivating.

Some areas of your yard mayharbor roots and otherunderground obstructions. Inplaces like this you’ll want to edgeyour borders shallowly (1” to 2”deep). Here’s how to install theBorder Edger for shallow edging:

1. First remove yourTilling/Cultivating tines.

2. Then slide the Edger’s wheelonto the right axle.

3. Now slide the Edger blade ontothe left axle. The blade’s angledface should hit the ground whenyou spin the blade forward.

4. Insert retaining pins on both leftand right axles.

Around walkways and gardenbeds, you’ll want to edge moredeeply (3” to 4” deep). Here’s howto install the Border Edger for thatpurpose:

1. Remove the Tilling/ Cultivatingtines.

2. Slide the Edger’s blade onto theright axle. The blade’s pointedface should hit the ground whenyou spin the blade forward.

3. Slide the wheel onto the leftaxle.

4. Insert retaining pins on bothsides.

How to Use theBorder Edger1. Position your MANTIS Tiller so that the Edger blade isright along the garden edge andthe wheel is outside (on thelawn, on the sidewalk,wherever). (Picture 1)

2. Start your Tiller and pull yourMANTIS backward along thegarden edge.

The Border Edger CanHandle Special Projects!1. Install the Edger for deepedging, as directed above. Thenuse it to cut sod strips.

2. Edge and weed at the sametime! Just attach the Edgerblade on one axle and a Tillertine on the other axle, “Mix andmatch” blades; don’t be afraidto experiment.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you do a lot of edging, you’llappreciate the MANTIS WheelSet (Item#9222.) It gives youadded stability, for even easierhandling.

To order the Wheel Set, or any MANTIS Attachment, contactyour local authorized MANTISdealer.

Using the Border Edger Attachment

Picture 1


Tiller Parts Assembly

19Contact us at www.mantis.com

20

Engine Parts AssemblyKEY # QTY MATERIAL

34 1 431 TINE SHAFT35 2 430 WORM GEAR THRUST WASHER36 2 432 WORM GEAR BEARING37 2 434 BEARING38 2 435 BEARING SEAL RETAINER39 1 438RA TINE ASSY - RT40 1 438LA TINE ASSY - LT41 2 418-1 TINE RETAINING HAIR PIN42 1 400315 CARRYING HANDLE43 1 400130 ENGINE FLANGE44 1 400609 TINE LABEL45 1 458 ROLLER BEARING46 1 4058 MANTIS LABEL47 2 410 CAP SCREW 1/4-20 X 1" LG.48 4 972 LOCK NUT 1/4 - 2049 2 470 1/4-20 X 3” BOLT50 2 140 BOLT 1/4 - 20 X 3/8" LG.51 2 377 HANDLE CLAMP52 2 400509 BOLT53 2 400523 KNOB54 2 400230 PLUG55 1 400010 TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY56 1 400132 BEARING57 1 400131 CLUTCH DRUM60 4 400511 M6 X 12 - FLANGED BOLT

* Also in Key #55

KEY # QTY MATERIAL 1 1 400257 TRIGGER HANDLE ASSM. RH2 1 400255 HANDLE ASSM. LH6 2 400224 LOWER HANDLE - FOLD DOWN7 1 400620 LABEL8 1 148 HANDLE BRACE12 1 910502 10-32 X 3/4 - FLANGED BOLT13 2 478 THROTTLE CLIP20 1 465 FENDER GUARD21 1 400911 ENGINE ASSY - 25CC

4 STROKE22* 1 468 DRIVE SHAFT23 1 466 WORM GEAR HOUSING24 1 436 GASKET25 1 437A HOUSING COVER26 4 651 RD. HD. SELF TAPPING SCREW27 1 423 ROLLER BEARING28 2 425 WORM BEARING RACE29 1 424 WORM THRUST BEARING30 1 422 WORM SHAFT31 1 426 WORM DISK32 1 428 RETAINING RING33 1 429 WORM GEAR


MANTIS TILLERLIMITED WARRANTY

Specifications, descriptions, and illustrative material in this literature are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change without notice.

P/N 401737 4.4.13Printed in USA

MANTIS extends this limited warranty againstdefects in material and workmanship for a periodof five (5) years for normal residential purposesand two (2) years for commercial use from thedate of purchase, to the first retail purchaser andeach subsequent owner, during the warrantyperiod. This warranty covers all portions of theMANTIS TILLER.

MANTIS will repair or replace, at its option, anypart or parts of the product proven to bedefective in material or workmanship undernormal usage during the warranty period.Warranty repairs and replacements will be madewithout charge for parts or labor. All partsreplaced under warranty will be considered aspart of the original product, and any warranty onthe replaced parts will expire coincident with theoriginal product warranty. If you think yourMANTIS TILLER is defective in material orworkmanship, you must send it, along with yourproof of purchase (sales receipt) to:

MANTIS1028 Street RoadSouthampton, PA 18966

You are responsible for pickup and deliverycharges; the product must be returned to uspostage paid.

MANTIS assumes no responsibility in the eventthat the product was not assembled or used incompliance with any assembly, care, safety, oroperating instructions contained in theOperator/Parts Manual or accompanying theproduct; was not used with reasonable care orrequires replacement or repair due to accidents orlack of proper maintenance; or was misused,

altered, used for other than normal or intendedpurposes. This warranty does not cover damagedue to normal wear and tear.

You must maintain your MANTIS TILLER byfollowing the maintenance procedures described in the Operator/Parts manual. Suchroutine maintenance, whether performed by youor a dealer, is at your expense.

MANTIS MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIEDWARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONSEXCEPT THOSE CONTAINED HEREIN. THEDURATION OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY,INCLUDING MERCHANTABILITY ANDFITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ISLIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THISWRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTY. MANTISDISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR INDIRECT,INCIDENTAL AND/OR CONSEQUENTIALDAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE USEOF THE MANTIS PRODUCTS COVERED BYTHIS WARRANTY. SOME STATES DO NOTALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG ANIMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS AND/OR DONOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION ORLIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL ORCONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THATABOVE LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS MAYNOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTYGIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, ANDYOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTSWHICH VARY FROM STATES TO STATE.

MANTIS1028 Street RoadSouthampton, PA 18966(215) 355-9700

© 2013 Mantis, Division of Schiller Grounds Care, Inc.

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