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How to Repair Common Tiller Problems

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published July 24, 2024

A well-kept tiller makes gardening easy. It breaks up stiff and compact soil into loose dirt, making planting that much easy. Learn the tips and tricks on tiller repair, to save time and money.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

When Your Tiller Won’t Start

There could be several reasons why your tiller won’t to start. Before understanding how to fix a tiller, figure out where the problem lies.

Check if the Fuel is too Old

Old fuel can cause starting problems. Make sure there is fresh fuel in the tank. If the fuel is old or contaminated, drain it. Replace it with fresh fuel.

Clogged Air Filters

Clogged air filters are one of the most common reasons smaller engines like tillers fail to start. Without sufficient airflow, the fuel cannot fully combust, preventing the engine from starting up.

  • Remove the air filters and soak them in a mild detergent and water solution. This helps break down any stuck-on grime. 
  • Wipe the filters and let them fully air dry before re-installing. Any remaining moisture can be drawn into the engine.
  • Once dry, grease them with a few drops of engine oil.

Check the Carburetor

Sometimes, the engine won’t start if the carburetor is not clean. With regular use, the fuel particles get stuck on it and hamper its working. If that is the case with your tiller, clean the carburetor by following these steps:

Check If the Spark Plug Is Working

At times, the tiller won’t start if the spark plug is defective. You must replace the spark plug on your tiller every year. Remove the spark plug and look out for signs of fouling or damage. Then, clean or replace it through the following steps:

Tiller Won’t Stay Running

If your tiller won’t stay running, it could be due to the following reasons:

Fuel Leakages

There could be a blockage or leakage in the fuel line. This could interrupt fuel flow and stop the tiller from operating. Start by checking the fuel supply. Make sure the fuel line is clear and free from blockages.

Overheating

Running the tiller for more extended periods without breaks can cause overheating. Inspect the ignition coil and wires for any damages. If they’ve worn out, replace them with new ones.

Ill-Fitted Carburetor

If the carburetor is not adjusted well, then the tiller won't stay running. Disassemble the carburetor and clean it with a carburetor cleaner. Follow the above-mentioned steps to do so. Pay attention to the jets and passages while cleaning.

Caution

Wear gloves and goggles while opening and cleaning the carburetor. Also, make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area. Open the windows of your garage to let the fumes out.

Tiller Tines Won’t Spin

If your tiller tines are not spinning, look out for the following issues:

Broken Drive Belt

A worn or broken drive belt can help prevent the tine from rotating. Review the drive belt for signs of wear or damage. If it is worn or stretched, replace it.

Faulty Transmission

Issues with the transmission of the motor can affect tine rotation. If the transmission is faulty, the tines don’t spin. Check the manufacturer’s manual for deeper diagnosis.

Missing Shear Pins

Broken or missing shear pins can cause the tines to stop rotating. Check the shear pins joining the tines to the drive shaft. Replace any broken or damaged shear pins to avoid tiller problems. You can follow these steps to replace the shear pins:

Basic Maintenance Tasks

In order to avoid tiller problems, you must ensure to follow these basic maintenance tasks:

  • Always detach the spark plug while replacing worn-out tines. It's best to remove the old tines and install new ones occasionally.
  • Take off the old wheels and securely put on the new ones. Make sure that they are properly aligned for smooth working.
  • Change the engine oil after 5 to 8 hours of running time. For gas engines, change the oil every 30 to 40 hours. For diesel engines, you must change the oil after every 40 to 60 hours.
  • Dispose of the old oil properly. Always keep the manufacturer’s instructions handy.

Caution

Always detach the spark plug from its socket before doing any work for maintenance or repair, make sure to double-check.

Things to Avoid When Repairing Your Tiller

A few actions can void your tiller’s warranty and are best to be avoided whenever possible. 
A few of the things you should not do include:

  • Using parts not suggested by the manufacturer can void the warranty. It can also cause a malfunction of the tiller. 
  • Never skip or disable safety features on your tiller. It can cause accidents and injuries. Use gloves and goggles while opening the tiller parts. 
  • Follow the maintenance schedule. Read the guidelines outlined in the manual carefully or it can lead to scary accidents. Also, the warranty might get canceled. 

Getting rid of tiller problems doesn’t always have to be tough. If you follow these steps, you can keep your tiller running effortlessly.