Questions on tilller I bought on auction

Donman · Dec 13, 2004

I bought this tiller on auction this past Saturday and I have a couple of questions. Is a JD dealer the best place to find an owners manual? I'd just like to read about maintenance and stuff.

Donman · Dec 13, 2004

Also - How much chain lash is normal? I have about 1/8th turn of the pto shaft from tight forward to tight back. It appears that this bolt is an adjustment for tightening the chain. How tight is tight?

beenthere · Dec 13, 2004

I'd sure like to get a find like that. I would say your Deere dealer (that's where I would go) would be your best bet for a manual, or try E-Bay.
If me, I would take up some of the slack with that adj. bolt, just so the chain wasn't tight.
I rent a 660 and like that size for my 4300, but would take the 550. Hope you got it for a good price.

chriswheeler · Dec 15, 2004

I have a Howard Rotovator that is the same chain drive system. The Howard manual says that you should have about 3/8 " slack in the chain when pushed with a screwdriver through the inspection port on the chain cover. Some of the smaller JD's ( 4-6' ) I've seen look like they came off the Howard production line, exactly the same with different paint. I'd still ask a JD dealer though.
Chris