Ryobi 454 - Manual (Page 10)

10
SECTION 5: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Never attempt to make any
adjustments while the engine is running,
except where specified in operator’s
manual.
Handle Adjustment
The handle height may be adjusted to the desired
height. Refer to the handle adjustment in Know Your
Tiller section.
Belt Tension Adjustment
Periodic adjustment of the belt tension may be required
due to normal stretch and wear on the belt. Adjustment
is needed if the tines or wheels seem to hesitate while
turning, but the engine maintains the same speed.
To adjust the tension on the belt, refer to Final Clutch
Adjustment in Assembly Instructions.
After belt tension has been adjusted, if the belt is
excessively stretched, you may need to adjust the idler
pulley rod. This can easily be checked.
With the engine off and the clutch control bail
disengaged, shift the gear selection handle to each
forward mode. If the indicator bracket touches the idler
pulley rod (with the clutch control bail disengaged), then
an adjustment is necessary.
• Disconnect and ground out spark plug wire against
the engine.
• Remove the belt cover as described under Belt
Replacement in the Maintenance section.
• Remove the hairpin clip and spring washer from the
idler pulley rod. Refer to Figure 9.
• Move the idler pulley rod to the lower hole in the
idler bracket.
• Replace the spring washer and hairpin clip.
• Check clearance of the idler pulley rod to the
indicator bracket by shifting to each forward mode,
as before.
Engine Adjustment
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
adjustment instructions.
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR TILLER
WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine
before performing any repairs or
maintenance.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
Service air cleaner every ten hours under normal
conditions. Clean every hour under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
IMPORTANT: Never run your engine without air cleaner
completely assembled.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
every 25 hours of engine operation. Spark plug
replacement is recommended at the start of each tiller
season; check engine manual for correct plug type and
gap specification.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all dirt and
combustible debris from muffler area.
Lubrication
Transmission
The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the
factory. It requires no checking unless the transmission
is disassembled. To fill with grease, lay the right half of
the transmission on its side, add 22 ounces of
Benalene 920 grease, and assemble the left half to it.
This grease can be obtained at your nearest authorized
dealer by ordering part number 737-0300.
Clutch Handle
Lubricate the pivot point on the clutch handle and the
cable at least once a season with light oil. The control
must operate freely in both directions.
Pivot Points
Lubricate all pivot points and linkages at least once a
season with light oil.
Tine Shafts
Remove tine assemblies and lubricate the tine shafts at
least once a season.