How To Repair Tiller Drive System
- Rated as REALLY EASY
- 4 step by step videos
Belt
If your tiller engine runs normally but the drive system will not function, stop the engine and remove the belt cover to inspect the drive belt. The belt should be secured on its pulleys with little slack. If the belt is broken or any signs of damage or wear are present, replace the belt. If the belt is tensioned incorrectly, this can be fixed by adjusting one or more idler pulleys on the belt assembly. Refer to your user manual for specific information on how to perform this adjustment. On most tillers, one belt will power both the drive system as well as the tines.
Idler Assembly
The tiller drive system may not work due to a problem with the idler assembly. If your drive belt is in place, but the tension is not correct, the idler assembly will need to be adjusted. The idler helps to tension the drive belt when the drive system is engaged by the operator. This mechanism will require adjustments from time to time, and may fail if the idler pulley bearing fails or if the idler arm is bent. It is a good idea to inspect the idler regularly to ensure it is operating properly before any larger problems arise. Refer to your user manual for specific instructions on adjusting belt tension and the idler assembly.
Engagement Cable
The tiller engagement cable runs from the controls, and into the drive system. If it is loose or damaged, it could be causing the tiller drive system to fail. When the tiller's controls are engaged, the engagement cable prompts the rotation of the tines as well as the wheels of the drive system. If the engagement cable is loose or is not tensioned properly, it may need to be tightened or replaced altogether. It is common for this mechanism can lose tension over time and need adjustments at some point. If the cable is broken or damaged, it should be replaced.
Transmission
If your tiller drive system fails, it could be due to an issue with the transmission gears. Many tillers have multiple speed settings which employ the transmission to drive the unit forward. If a single gear in the transmission fails, it can lead to all other gears being compromised, as any broken parts of pieces of the broken gear can get pulled into other components of the transmission mechanism and cause a complete failure. Pay attention to any strange sounds emanating from the transmission, as it coud indicate an internal issue. Rebuilding or repairing a transmission is an advanced repair and will require the disassembly of multiple components to access. Once the transmission is removed, great care must be taken to keep all its internal parts in order so it can be reassembled later. In some cases, a professional may be required to repair a broken transmission, or to simply replace the transmission altogether.
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