Background
The Craftsman Tiller 917.294480, produced by Roper Corp for Sears, is a rear tine tiller that utilizes a 6.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. With a tine width of 17 inches, this tiller is designed to provide a high degree of control and precision in a variety of soil conditions. The counter-rotating tines, composed of heat-treated carbon steel, can reach a speed of 230 RPM. This model features three forward speeds and one reverse speed, permitting a degree of adaptability for different tasks. It is equipped with 8-inch pneumatic tires and measures 24 inches in width, 41 inches in length, and 43 inches in height, weighing 208 lbs. It has a fuel capacity of 3 quarts of regular unleaded gasoline and an oil capacity of 19 oz SAE 30 above 40°F, and SAE 5W-30/10W-30 below 40°F.
In terms of functionality, the Craftsman Tiller 917.294480 has an adjustable handle height and side shields, which can safeguard plants while cultivating. It also incorporates a depth stake and adjustable wheels to control the tilling depth. To operate, the shift lever is moved to neutral and the throttle is set to fast. The fuel valve is then turned on and the choke is moved to choke before pulling the recoil starter. As the engine warms up, the choke is moved to run. The tines are engaged by squeezing the drive control bar and the forward or reverse speed is selected with the shift lever. The tilling depth is adjusted with the depth stake and the cultivating depth is set by the wheel position. Regular maintenance of this tool includes checking the engine oil before each use and changing it after the first 5 hours of use, and then every 25 hours or yearly if used less than 25 hours. The air filter should be cleaned every 50 hours and replaced yearly. The spark plug should be replaced yearly or every 50 hours. The transmission gear case should be lubricated once a year, and the engine cylinder fins should be cleaned, and the muffler and spark arrester checked regularly.
Technical Specifications
- Model Number: 917.294480
- Product Type: Tiller
- Engine: 6.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek I/C single cylinder with recoil start
- Power Transmission: Gear drive
- Tine Width: 17 inches
- Tine Rotation: Counter rotating
- Tines: Heat treated carbon steel
- Tine Speed: 230 RPM
- Forward Speeds: 3
- Reverse Speed: 1
- Wheels: 8 inch pneumatic tires
- Dimensions: Width 24 inches, Length 41 inches, Height 43 inches
- Weight: 208 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 3 quarts unleaded regular gasoline
- Oil Capacity: 19 oz SAE 30 above 40°F, SAE 5W-30/10W-30 below 40°F
Warranty
The Craftsman Tiller 917.294480 comes with a 2-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in both materials and workmanship, provided that the tiller is used for household purposes. The warranty does not apply to commercial use and would be void if the tiller is used for such purposes. The engine of the tiller has a separate warranty, which is covered by the engine manufacturer. It is important to note that failing to follow the recommended engine maintenance could result in the voiding of the tiller's warranty. In order to claim the warranty, repairs should be carried out at Sears authorized service centers.