Tiller: Why do my tiller's tines turn but the wheels don't?
If the wheels on your tiller don't turn but the tines do, you may need to adjust the clutch cable or replace the transmission.
If the tines turn when tilling soil but the wheels don't move, you'll likely need to replace the transmission because the tiller clutch cable is properly tensioning the drive belt to spin the transmission pulley but the transmission isn't driving the wheels.
If the tines spin when they're above the soil but stop when you lower the tines into the soil, then you may need to adjust the clutch cable so it properly tensions the belt to engage the transmission pulley. Replace the clutch cable if it's damaged.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR TILLER PROBLEM
Replace the tiller transmission
The transmission controls the motion of the wheels and/or tines on a tiller. An internal gear failure in the transmission can prevent the tines from turning or the wheels from moving. Replace the transmission if it won't drive the tiller components properly.
Tiller transmission
Adjust or replace the tiller clutch cable
The clutch cable engages and disengages the drive system on the tiller. Test the drive system and adjust the clutch cable if necessary. If the cable is damaged or broken, replace it.
Adjust or replace the tiller clutch cable
Most common symptoms to help you fix your tillers
Choose a symptom to see related tiller repairs.
Main causes: clutch cable problems, faulty transmission…
Main causes: damaged tines, broken clevis pins, worn drive belt, faulty transmission, clutch cable problems, improper de…
Main causes: worn or broken drive belts, bad transmission, clutch cable problems…
Main causes: leaky engine head gasket, damaged sump gasket, damaged oil drain plug seal, loose or cracked fuel line, lea…
Main causes: broken shaft clevis pins, transmission failure…
Main causes: dirty carburetor, engine needs tune up, stale gas…
Main causes: carburetor failure, bad gasoline, dirty spark plug, broken recoil starter…
Most common repair guides to help fix your tillers
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your tiller.
How to replace a tiller recoil starter
The recoil starter spins the engine when you pull the starter rope, and the rope retracts when released. If the recoil s…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your tillers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your tiller.
Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…
Rear tine tiller or front tine tiller, what to know to help in choosing the correct one for your needs.…