When to change your tiller tines?...

[skipmarcy]

I had the same sticker shock when I bought my used Kubota tiller year before last, was going to cost over $600 for a new set of tines (36 total). My local farmer's Co-op found aftermarket ones that matched exactly for half the price, including shipping from the left coast. Hardfacing those 36 tines would be tedious I suppose but probably would pay for itself in the long run if you till much. I've replaced the tines on my Craftsman rear tine tiller 3 times in 21 years I've had it but I really use it alot. Quality and depth of the till declines quickly once you get that "knife edge" going on the tines. I may try getting the tines on the Kubota tiller hardfaced once they wear down a little more the next year or so.

 

[bjr]

Finding the ones that fit is the thing. I see where Agri-Supply sell tines for their tiller for $4 apiece. Bolts and nuts can be another $100 depending on grade of bolt and whether you use the self locking nuts. bjr

 

[Kays Supply]

Be carefull with the cheap tines. I bought a set a for Japanese tiller that were Chinese made. The very first time I used it in Southern Illinois clay ,half of them broke off at the first bolt holes.

 

[The Tractor Guy 22]

Thanks, I've never heard of hard facing tines before, I'll look into it for my next set. The hardware was about $100- grade 8 lock washers and nuts from JD. Plus some lock tight just to be safe.

 

[magicheater]

I have found that the outside tines seem to wear faster than the inner ones. Probably because they are more prone to engaging untilled soil and bear the brunt when turning with the tiller down.