Tiller slip clutch

Aggie66 · May 16, 2025

I have purchased a used TMG tiller I serviced it today and ran it for the first time. I’ve never run one before so I have no experience with one. So while running it for a test I noticed when running into some coastal Bermuda the clutch slipped. It made quite a racket so I lifted it a bit to re- engage the clutch. I ran it for another 15 minutes and am satisfied with everything being in working condition. My question is I’m not sure if the clutch is correctly set or not. The unit is an older model and I have a general operating manual but it has nothing about setting the slip clutch other than testing it. I don’t know the appropriate pressure setting on a slip clutch. If anyone has guidance on how to set the clutch to proper pressure it would be appreciated. Thanks.

RjCorazza · May 17, 2025

The general idea is to allow the clutch to slip before the tractor stalls. If it really pulled hard on the tractor when your clutch began slipping I would call it good. If you feel like the tractor engine had more to give, then you can turn the clutch bolts a very slight amount clockwise and retest. Maybe 1/8 th to 1/4 turn adjustment would be about right.

Tx Jim · May 17, 2025

Which type slip clutch? Some SC have nuts on bolts that can be adjusted & some are non-adjustable with only Bellville washers putting pressure on SC plates.

Aggie66 · May 18, 2025

I’ll have to check that out thanks

CobyRupert · May 18, 2025

There’s two conditions that the clutch protects by slipping. 1) Shock loads to the tractor’s and tiller’s PTO and gearbox when the tiller encounters an object that wants to jam and stop the tiller/pto from turning. 2) Applying too much load to the tiller’s gearbox from a larger tractor.

The operators manual for the tiller should have instructions on how to set the slip clutch. A dimension for distances between the clutch plates, or bolt threads exposed, is usually specified.

Every season, loosen the clutch and manually check that the clutch isn’t rusted together and can actually slip.

Once clutch is tightened, mark each side of the clutch with a marker. If the marks change alignment with each other when tilling, you know the clutch is slipping. Don’t let the clutch slip when tilling or it will burn itself out.

Aggie66 · May 18, 2025

Thank you for the comment. My problem is that my tiller is used and is without a manual. I contacted the factory and they gave the only manual they thought it was (it has no identification plate). I want to think it was never adjusted from factory specs but I have no way of knowing. That’s why I’m having to determine if it’s good as is or not but dont really know where to start. One thing is it did slip so it did what it was supposed to do. I’ll take the suggestions and look things over. Thanks to all.