How to maintain a rotary tiller
Before discussing tiller maintenance, it is important to say that, although there are some differences between the various models, this machine has a standard structure. Two long, height-adjustable handles are used to control the forward movement and the rotation of the blades. The internal combustion engine drives a shaft on which the blades are mounted, sometimes with two wheels to facilitate movement. At the end of the blades there are often two safety discs to protect the operator. At the rear (the end where the handles are) there is a rostrum that acts as a brake, sinking into the ground to prevent forward movement, and at the front, there is sometimes a small wheel to make driving the tiller easier.
Another machine that is similar to the rotary tiller is the motor cultivator. The difference between the two machines lies in the positioning of the blades, which in the rotary tiller are mounted on the drive shaft in place of the wheels, while in the motor cultivator they are mounted in a recessed position and the vehicle always stands on its wheels. Given the heavy-duty work that this machine is designed to carry out, good maintenance is essential.
Things you will need
Jet washer
Wd-40 High-performance PTFE lubricant
Compressed air
Step 1
GENERAL WASHING
All parts must be cleaned very thoroughly at the end of every job. The blade area and the rear rostrum can be washed with a jet washer, while the other parts can be washed normally using car detergent. Remember to let the engine cool down before washing as it could be damaged if it gets wet when hot.
Step 2
BLADE AXLES AND BLADES
When soil and other residues have been removed and the machine is dry, the blades can be removed and lubrication carried out. Particular attention must be paid to lubricating the blade axles, in the long groove (usually hexagonal) in the drive shafts. Lubrication can be carried out with WD-40 Multi-use product. At the end of the season before storing the rotary tiller for the winter, lubrication is best carried out using WD-40 Specialist High-Performance PTFE lubricant. The blades (and end disks) should be examined for deformation caused by impact with stones. The blades can be disassembled by loosening the bolts securing them to the axle and smoothed with the grinder or sanding wheel.
Step 3
OTHER PARTS TO BE LUBRICATED
Other useful lubrication operations, which should always be carried out using the products indicated, concern the:
- rostrum interlocking and adjustment system;
- joints to adjust the height of the handles;
- pins on which the handles for driving the machine forward are fitted;
- gear lever joint;
- accelerator and clutch cables
Step 4
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
The engine must be carefully cleaned after every work session to eliminate the dust that is raised during operation. The following should be examined:
- Air filter: clean it with compressed air or, if it is in an oil bath, flush it with diesel and change the oil.
- Engine oil: this should be replaced every 50 hours of operation (see the Owner’s Handbook).
- Spark plug: clean the spark plug regularly and replace it if the electrodes are worn.
- Carburettor: when the rotary tiller is put away for winter storage, it is best to close the petrol tap and leave the engine running until all the petrol in the carburettor has been consumed.
Step 5
FURTHER CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE
The following should be checked regularly
- The transmission belt should be replaced if it appears cracked or frayed.
- Tyres and tyre pressure
- Rusty parts Rusty parts should be treated immediately with WD-40 Multi-use product in order to free them from rust and preserve them. This operation can be repeated several times during the period of activity.
- The machine should be stored in a dry and only slightly ventilated place.
CONCLUSION
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The uses shown and described for WD-40 Multi-Use Product were provided to WD-40 Company by the users themselves. These uses haven’t been tested by WD-40 Company and do not constitute a recommendation of suggestion for use by WD-40 Company. Common sense should be exercised whenever using WD-40 Company products. Always follow the instructions and take heed of any warnings printed on the packaging.
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