Engine starts and runs fine. Tines rotate only very slowly at max RPM and only when they are off the ground. Any resistance and they will not rotate at all. I removed all the weeds and strings that were around the axle and found that the gearbox was hot, after 10 or so minutes of operation. Less than max RPM and the tines don’t rotate at all. All the pins are in place. Model 536.797502
How to Identify and Fix Common Gardening Problems ?
We provide a variety of viewpoints on how to identify and fix common gardening problems. Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced gardeners :
Tiller: Why won`t my tillers wheels or tines turn? A broken drive belt, bad transmission or problem with the clutch cable can prevent a tiller`s wheels and tines from turning. Check the drive belt and replace it if it`s worn or broken.
One of the most common problems, especially because rototillers often sit unused for months, is stale fuel or a clogged carburetor. If you know you have fresh fuel, you can check for carburetor blockage by spraying a small amount of carb cleaner into the intake and attempting to start the engine.
The problem with your tiller`s digging power may not be with the machine; it could be the soil. When soil is dry and compacted, tiller tines basically bounce off it without digging into it or turning it. Combat compaction by watering the area thoroughly one or two days before you till.
Counter Rotating Tines (CRT)
The CRT feature spins the tines in the opposite direction as the wheels while the wheels propel the machine forward despite the force of the tines. Counter rotating tines allow this type of tiller to dig deep and break through even the toughest soils.
Rotary tillers break through a variety of soils to create a workable area for gardens and flowerbeds. After repeated use, the tines, or blades, dull and wear down. No matter what type or brand of tiller you own, these blades will need to be sharpened or replaced to keep your machine working properly.
Forward and reverse tine rotary tillers operate exactly as described. Forward rotating tines, like those on the RT3062, rotate forward on the shaft in the same direction the tractor is traveling. Reverse rotating tines, like those on the RT3062R, rotate on the shaft in the opposite direction the tractor is traveling.
You should change your tiller oil at least every spring, but ideally after every 50 hours of operation. Between oil changes, check your oil level before each use to ensure there`s enough oil present. Small amounts of oil may burn off during use, so you may need to occasionally top it off.
Before You Till
Avoid tilling in wet soil as soil compaction can occur and lead to poor root penetration in the growing season. If it rains, it`s best to wait a few days to allow soil to become semi-dry.
Counter-rotating tines: Tines that move opposite to the rotation of the wheels. Counter-rotating tines dig in harder, making this feature perfect for breaking new ground, or dealing with hard-packed soil or clay. Forward-rotating tines: Tines rotate in the same direction as the wheels.
On front-tined tillers, the gardener pushes down on the handles, which raises the spinning tines, to get the tiller from one place to another. When it`s in the right place, the front end is lowered and the tines dig in, pulling the machine forward. Rear-tined tillers have tines that only spin when you want them to.
When the “blunt” edge width measures 1/4″ to 3/8″, a new set is probably required. If the tines become so worn that they are pointed, the tiller will not perform acceptably–you`ll be aerating instead of tilling! For the most part, tines need to be replaced as a set (or kit)–not individually.
Forward and reverse tine rotary tillers operate exactly as described. Forward rotating tines, like those on the RT3062, rotate forward on the shaft in the same direction the tractor is traveling. Reverse rotating tines, like those on the RT3062R, rotate on the shaft in the opposite direction the tractor is traveling.
When the “blunt” edge width measures 1/4″ to 3/8″, a new set is probably required. If the tines become so worn that they are pointed, the tiller will not perform acceptably–you`ll be aerating instead of tilling! For the most part, tines need to be replaced as a set (or kit)–not individually.