Every time I use my Earthwise TC70001 Tiller/Cultivator, I am more and more impressed with how much spading/forking work that it saves me from doing. I just finished tilling one of my flowerbeds that I grow vegetables in and what would have taken me at least an hour to do with a garden fork, I was able till up in only about 15 minutes. And I must admit the tiller did a much better job too! This great little tiller/cultivator is really a time (and back) saver! Here are a few tips on using the Earthwise TC70001 that you might found helpful to know.
First, to keep your electrical extension cord from becoming disconnected from the tiller, use the cord retainer that comes with the tiller to secure your extension cord to the tiller. But, if you want even more assurance that the extension cord will not become disconnected from the power cord, you can also tie the end of the extension cord and the end of the tiller’s power cord in a large square knot and plug the extension cord and power cord together. I just use the cord retainer myself and have never had a problem with the cord becoming disconnected.
Second, for the best control over the tiller when it is in operation, use both hands. Using both hands also allows you to maneuver the tiller back and forth (i.e., from side to side) a little so you can not only widen the tiller’s cutting width and also till up the untilled hill or mound between the tiller’s two tilling blades.
Third, at least once a year – - – I suggest you do it at the start of the gardening/flowering growing season – - – oil the tiller’s tines and shaft. Lubricating the tines and shaft will provide protection to them and keep them working smoothly.
Fourth, probably once every couple of years, I suggest you check the tiller’s transmission lubricant fluid. To do this, lay the tiller on its right side and remove the left tiller blade from the shaft. (A single bolt and nut holds it in place.) Next, unscrew the drain plug(s) on the side of the transmission close to the tiller’s shaft. You will need to use a 5mm hex key (wrench) to unscrew the drain plug(s). After a few years, you will probably need to change out the transmission lubricant. Drain the old lubricant out of the transmission by turning the tiller over on its opposite (left) side . Once the old lubricant has been drained out to the extent possible, turn the tiller back on its right side to the original position. Use a high quality auto gear lube oil (e.g., Mobil Synthetic Gear Lubricant LS 75W-90) to refill the transmission until the oil reaches the very top of the drain plug hole. (Note: There are two drain plugs. You can drain out and add the new oil through either one. If you want, you can remove both drain plugs which I strongly recommend as it only takes about 15 seconds to remove the second drain plug. This will make your emptying and filling of the transmission perhaps a little easier as the second opening will allow air to enter and exit the transmission compartment more easily.) Then, insert and tighten the drain screw plug(s) back in place. This will help keep the tiller’s transmission running smoothly. (Tip: Be sure that when you reattach the left tiller blade to the tiller shaft that you have the blades pointed in the right direction.) Changing/adding the lubricant will only take you about 10 – 15 minutes.
Fifth, remember that you can sharpen the tiller’s tines with a file or tool sharpener if they become too dull. (Be sure and unplug the the tiller from the electrical outlet before you do this.) Sharper blades will allow your tiller to do a better job of tilling.
Sixth, and an important reminder, never use a water hose to clean the TC70001 after you have used it. This can possibly damage the tiller’s motor. Instead, after unplugging the tiller, remove with your hands any roots that are wrapped around the shaft, use a stiff brush to clean the tiller’s tines, shaft, and motor housing to remove the worst of the dirt and soil, and then use a damp rag to remove the remaining dirt and dust. Try and clean your tiller immediately after using it as I have found that the dirt/soil is usually easier to remove then – - – especially if it is wet dirt/soil you have been tilling.
Seventh, when tilling, extend your arms out to their full length and then pull the tiller back toward you. This allows the tiller blades to dig deeper into the soil. Repeat this process until you have tilled as deep as you want to go. Note: When you are through tilling, you can use a yard/garden rake to even out the soil level in your garden or flower bed.
Eighth, you can use your tiller to help you dig out small holes (e.g., you need to plant some tree saplings). Just use your tiller to dig the top of the hole, then use a shovel to remove the loose soil from the hole, reinsert the tiller in the hole and let the tiller loosen up some more dirt for you. The angle of the tiller’s handle limits how deep a hole you can dig.
Ninth, the two most common patterns for tilling are the crisscross pattern and the overlapping pattern. I personally think the crisscross pattern works better for large rectangular gardens and the overlapping pattern works best for long, narrow flowerbeds and fence gardens.
Tenth, if when using your tiller, the tiller begins to stay in the same spot just rock the tiller from side to side (easy to do because of the tiller’s light weight) until the tiller begins to move forward again.
Eleventh, like with any electrical corded power tool, always be mindful of where your extension cord is. The extension cord is no match for the tiller’s rotating blades.
Twelfth, be sure and raise the tiller’s wheels out of the way before you begin to till.
Thirteenth, if you will not be using the tiller for a while, I recommend that you wipe down the metal parts of the tiller with an oily cloth. This will help ensure that your tiller looks and performs well for a long time.
Fvourteenth, remember that the tiller’s blades don’t stop immediately when you release the power switch handle.
And finally, as you are tilling with your Earthwise TC70001 Tiller and Cultivator, think how much better your back will feel when you are through then if you had had to spade up this garden or flowerbed with a regular garden fork or shovel.
I hope these tips will be helpful to you!
