GARDEN STAR

Model 5020D

Operator’s Manual
Manufactured by

ARDISAM, INC.
ARDISAM MOWERS ★ POWER AUGERS ★ ROTOTILLERS ★
1360 1st Avenue; P.O. Box 666
Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829
(715) 822-2415 Fax (715) 822-4180
1-800-3456-007
 ARDISAM

WARRANTY AND REGISTRATION

Thank You . . .
for purchasing an Ardisam, Inc. GARDEN STAR rototiller. We guarantee that this rototiller conforms to
applicable North American safety standards, and have worked to ensure that it will meet your exacting
standards for usability and durability. With proper care, your rototiller will provide many years of service.
Please take time to read this manual carefully to learn how to operate and service your rototiller correctly.
Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage. This manual should be considered a
permanent part of your rototiller. Congratulations on your investment in quality.

TWO YEAR CAUTION

LIMITED WARRANTY
The Ardisam, Inc., Manufacturing Company warrants this
GARDEN STAR rototiller to be free from defects in material
or workmanship. Conditions of this warranty include:
What is covered under warranty:
For the first year from the date of purchase, Ardisam will
furnish 100% parts and labor to correct any defect caused
by faulty material or workmanship. During the second year
of ownership, Ardisam will furnish 100% of the parts to
correct any defect caused by faulty material or workmanship.
All repairs made under warranty must have prior approval
from Ardisam, Inc. Belts, batteries, tines, shear bolts and
tires, due to the nature of their function, are subject to normal
wear and tear and are covered only during the first year of
the warranty period. Any unit used in a commercial
application is covered for a period of 90 days after purchase.
The engine is covered under a separate warranty issued
by the engine manufacturer as stated in the engine manual.
What is not covered under warranty:
This warranty applies only to products which have not been
repaired or altered outside our factory. It covers only defects
resulting from normal use, and does not cover defects
arising from misuse, alteration, negligence, or accident. This
warranty applies only to the original purchaser, and is not
transferrable.
This warranty supersedes all other warranties either
expressed or implied and all other obligations or liabilities
on our part. Ardisam, Inc., does not assume, and does
not authorize any other person to assume for us, any
liability in connection with the sale of our products. This
guarantee is void unless the warranty card is properly
filled out and returned to Ardisam, Inc., Cumberland,
Wisconsin, within two weeks of the purchase date.
You must read, understand and comply with all safety
and operating instructions in this manual before
attempting to setup and operate this equipment.
Failure to comply with all safety and operating
instructions can result in loss of machine control, serious
personal injury to you and/or bystanders, and risk of
equipment and property damage. The triangle in the
text signifies important cautions or warnings which must
be followed.
CAUTION
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
For easy reference, please record the
information on the chart below.
The Rototiller Reference Data can be found on an
identification tag located on the engine mount. (Refer to
the engine manual for location of engine information and
serial number.)
ROTOTILLER REFERENCE DATA
Model Description/Number
M/N (Manufacturer's Number) S/N (Serial Number)

ARDISAM, INC. Dealer Name Date Purchased

ARDISAM MOWERS ★ POWER AUGERS ★ ROTOTILLERS ★
1360 1st Avenue; P.O. Box 666
Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829 ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
(715) 822-2415 Fax (715) 822-4180
Engine Make/Model Engine ID/Serial Number
1-800-3456-007

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 ARDISAM

TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY AND REGISTRATION ...................................................................................................... 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................ 3
OPERATION SAFETY .......................................................................................................................... 4-5
Owner's Responsibility ................................................................................................................. 4
Cautions and Important Notes ..................................................................................................... 4
Important Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................... 4-5
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY ............................................................................................................. 6-14
Unpack Tiller ................................................................................................................................. 7-8
Registration Form ......................................................................................................................... 8
Install the Drag Stake ................................................................................................................... 9
Attach Throttle Lever and Cable Assembly to Handlebar ............................................................. 9-10
Attach Handlebar to Tiller ............................................................................................................. 10-11
Attach Throttle Cable and Control ................................................................................................ 11-12
Adjust Throttle Control Autochoke and Kill Functions .................................................................. 12
Attach Shift Lever Rod ................................................................................................................. 13
Fill Engine Crankcase .................................................................................................................. 13-14
CONTROLS AND ADJUSTMENTS ...................................................................................................... 15-18
Wheel Lockout Butterflies ............................................................................................................. 15
Shift Lever Rod ............................................................................................................................. 16
Forward Belt Position ................................................................................................................... 16-17
Drag Stake ................................................................................................................................... 17
T-clamp ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Throttle Control ............................................................................................................................ 18
OPERATION AND TILLING TIPS ......................................................................................................... 19-21
Check Oil and Gas Levels ............................................................................................................ 19
Check Position of Wheels and Wheel Lockout Butterflies and Wheel Lockpins ........................... 19
Check Drag Stake Adjustment ..................................................................................................... 19
Start the Engine ........................................................................................................................... 20
Tilling ............................................................................................................................................ 20
Turning ......................................................................................................................................... 21
Tilling Tips .................................................................................................................................... 21
Cultivating Tips ............................................................................................................................. 21
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE ......................................................................................................... 22-27
Check Forward Belt Tension ......................................................................................................... 22
Check Reverse Belt/Change Reverse Belt ................................................................................... 23
Engine Maintenance .................................................................................................................... 24
Check Tiller Transmission Grease ................................................................................................ 24-25
Periodic Cleaning of the Tine Axle Shaft ...................................................................................... 25
Storage ......................................................................................................................................... 25-26
Check Tire Pressure ..................................................................................................................... 26
Throttle Adjustment ...................................................................................................................... 26
Tiller and Engine Maintenance Schedule ..................................................................................... 27
SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR ...................................................................................... 28-36
Service Information ...................................................................................................................... 28
Ordering Repair Parts .................................................................................................................. 28
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................ 29-30
Repair Parts ................................................................................................................................. 31-38
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 39
ACCESSORIES & OTHER PRODUCTS ........................................................................................ back cover

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 ARDISAM
OPERATION SAFETY
Section Checklist
❒ Owner's Responsibility
❒ Cautions and Important
Notes
❒ Important Safety
Instructions
❑ Owner's Responsibility
❑ Cautions and Important Notes
❑ Important Safety Instructions
Accurate assembly, safe and effective use of the rototiller is the
owner's responsibility.
1. Read and follow all safety instructions.
2. Carefully follow all assembly instructions.
3. Maintain the tiller according to directions and schedule included.
4. Ensure that anyone who uses the tiller is familiar with all controls
and safety precautions.
Two symbols which draw attention to information of special
importance appear throughout this manual. These comments range in
importance from helpful hints to warnings about risk of personal
injury. Please take the time to read and understand them.
IMPORTANT
Indicates a situation which may Provides helpful information
cause personal injury or damage for proper assembly,
to the rototiller or property. It operation, or maintenance of
means - attention! Become alert! your rototiller.
Your safety is involved.
Please read this section carefully. Operate the tiller according to
the safety instructions and recommendations outlined here and
inserted throughout the text. Make sure anyone who uses the tiller
has read the instructions and is familiar with the controls.
General
• CAREFULLY READ THIS MANUAL AND FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS.
• Be familiar with all controls before operating the tiller. Practice
using the controls without the wheels and tines engaged. Your
tiller is equipped with a safety device that enables you to stop the
wheels and tines quickly in an emergency. Learn how the shift
lever rod works and how to control the tiller at all times.
• Never allow children to operate the tiller. Keep small children
away from the area being tilled. Do not allow adults to operate
the tiller without proper instruction.
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OPERATION SAFETY
Preparation
• Dress appropriately when operating the tiller. Always wear sturdy
footwear. Never wear sandals, sneakers, or open shoes, and never
operate the tiller in bare feet. Do not wear loose clothing that
might get caught in moving parts.
• Carefully inspect the area to be tilled. Do not till above
underground water lines, gas lines, electric cables, or pipes. Do
not operate the tiller in soil with large rocks and foreign objects
which can damage the equipment.

Operation
• Never operate the tiller without guards, covers, and hoods in place.
• Never start the engine or operate the tiller with the wheels in the
free wheel position. Make sure the wheel lockout butterflies are
engaged through wheel hubs and wheel axle. The wheels act as
brakes to keep the tiller at a controlled speed. Disengage wheel
lockout butterflies to permit free wheeling only when engine is
stopped.
• Keep feet, hands, and clothing away from rotating tines.
• Tines and wheels rotate when tiller is engaged in forward or
reverse-- in forward, tines and wheels rotate when the shift lever
rod is pushed forward; in reverse, tines and wheels rotate when the
shift lever rod is pulled to the rear. Releasing the shift lever rod to
its neutral position stops the tines and wheels.
• Be extremely cautious when operating in reverse. Take extra care
to avoid slipping or falling, and to keep feet clear of tines.
• If vegetation clogs the tines, raise the handlebars to elevate the
tines, and run the tiller in reverse. If this does not clean clogged
vegetation from the tines, STOP THE ENGINE AND
DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG WIRE before removing
vegetation by hand.
• Engine muffler may be hot from operation. Do not touch it with
bare skin or a severe burn may result.
• Always stop the engine when the tiller is unattended.
• Always leave the shift lever rod in neutral when engine is not
running.

Maintenance and storage

• To prevent accidental starting, always disconnect the spark plug
wire from the spark plug before performing tiller maintenance.
• Never run the engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are deadly.
• Always allow muffler to cool before filling fuel tank.
• Never store equipment with gasoline in the tank inside a closed
building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow
the engine to cool before storing in any building.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

Section Checklist ❑ Unpack Tiller
❑ Complete and Return Registration Form
❑ Install the Drag Stake
❑ Attach Throttle Lever and Cable Assembly to Handlebar and
Connect Cable to Engine
❑ Attach Handlebar to Tiller
❑ Attach Throttle Cable and Control
❑ Adjust Throttle Control Autochoke and Kill Functions
❑ Attach Shift Lever Rod
❑ Fill Engine Crankcase

IMPORTANT
The right and left sides of your
rototiller are determined from
the operating position as you
face the direction of forward
travel.
Your rototiller comes fully assembled except for a few parts
which are described below. The following instructions will
help you unpack your tiller and assemble and adjust the tiller's
drag stake, throttle lever and cable assembly, handlebar, and
shift lever rod. You will need a screw driver, a 1/2" and a 9/16"
wrench, and a rubber mallet or wood block and hammer.

Shift Lever Rod

T-handle Throttle Control

T-clamp

Belt Guard
Air Cleaner

Drag Stake

Detent Pin

Recoil Start

Serial Number Wheel Lockout Butterfly

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

❒ Unpack Tiller For Model 5020D Only
1. Remove handlebars and other loose parts.
Packing list:
CAUTION ❑ parts packet with owner's manual
Do not try to lift the rototiller from the carton. ❑ shift lever rod
❑ drag stake
❑ handlebars
❑ tiller
2. Cut carton open at engine end and lay end
panel flat.

CAUTION
Wheel lockout butterflies must always be in the
tilling position when engine is running. The
only reason to set wheels in the free wheel
position is to move the tiller when the engine
is not running. The wheels act as a brake to
control the travel speed of the tiller.
Wheels are shipped in the tilling position, that is, with wheel lockout
butterfly positioned in both the wheel hub and the axle. To roll tiller
from carton:
3. Release both wheels to neutral as follows.
4. Pull knob away from machine. Rotate wheel lockout butterflies to
neutral position by turning them 90o.
5. Wheels are now free to rotate.

Wheel lockout butterfly

in tilling position.

6. Roll rototiller out of carton.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

For Model 3515D Only
1. Remove handlebars and other loose parts.
Packing list:
❑ parts packet with owner's manual
❑ drag stake
❑ handlebars
❑ tiller
2. Cut carton open at engine end and lay end
panel flat.

Wheels are shipped in the tilling position, that is, with wheel
lockpins inserted through both the wheel hub and the axle. To roll
tiller from carton:
3. Release wheels by removing wheel lockpins.
4. Slide wheels toward transmission.
5. Replace wheel lockpins in axle holes only, and lock pins. Wheels
are now free to rotate.

Free Wheel Drive Position

(wheel lockpin in axle hole only)

6. Roll rototiller out of carton.

❒ Registration Form Complete and return.

Your rototiller has a serial number on the engine mount in front of
the left wheel. Record this number and the model number in the
space provided on page 2 of this manual. You will need these
numbers if you order parts.
Fill out and mail the registration card in your parts packet.
Warranty is valid only if your completed registration card is received
by Ardisam, Inc., within two weeks of the purchase date.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

❒ Install the Drag Stake 1. Insert the drag stake into the top of the depth regulator bracket
with handle facing rearward.

2. Remove detent pin from parts packet.

3. Insert detent pin through depth regulator bracket and top hole of
drag stake--tines should clear the ground.
NOTE: The drag stake is now in the transport position.

❒ Attach Throttle Lever and 1. Remove throttle lever and cable assembly, and two small slotted
screws, nuts, and lockwashers from parts packet.
Cable Assembly to 2. Insert the throttle lever through the slot in the upper crossbar,
Handlebar aligning the holes in the lever body with the holes in the crossbar,
Insert screws through the upper crossbar and throttle lever. Install
lockwashers and nuts and tighten with a screwdriver.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

3. Remove black plastic T-handle from parts packet and place on
throttle lever. Strike T-handle with rubber mallet or place wood
block on top and strike gently with hammer until the T-handle is
firmly seated on the throttle lever.

❒ Attach Handlebar to Tiller 1.Loosen handlebar height adjustment bracket by loosening both
bolts with a 1/2" wrench.

lock washer t-clamp

flat washer

handlebar
lower crossbar

height adjustment
bracket

3/8” bolts height

adjustment
lock nuts bracket bolts

handlebar
transmission
mounting tabs
cover

2.Unscrew T-clamp and both washers from handlebar assembly.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

3. Attach handlebar assembly to handlebar bracket using a 9/16"
wrench, and the large bolts and nuts provided in parts packet.
NOTE: Position height adjustment bracket on top of handlebar
lower cross bar. Line up the locator pin on the crossbar in a hole in
the height adjustment bracket as shown.
locator pin

handlebar lower crossbar

washers

bolts

4. Retighten both bolts on height adjustment bracket.

5. Replace T-clamp into handlebar, making sure both washers are
above the height adjustment bracket.
6. Tighten T-clamp.

❒ Attach Throttle Cable and NOTE: When installed, the engine throttle cable is routed along the
right side of the handlebar and is attached to the engine.
Control
1. Unscrew the wing nuts on the belt guard and remove the belt
guard from the tiller.
2. Remove cable casing clamp and screw located beneath gas tank
on right side of engine (see drawing below).
IMPORTANT
In some engines, the cable
casing clamp may be shipped
in the forward position as
shown in the drawing to the
right. If this is the case,
reposition the clamp to the
correct position as shown.
The throttle cable must enter
the engine from the rear.

3. Insert end of throttle cable wire into top hole of engine speed
control (the square plastic block on the right side of the engine as
shown above).
4. Replace cable casing clamp on engine with cable casing between
the top of the screw and top of cable clamp, but do not tighten
clamp screw yet.

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 ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

5. BEFORE tightening clamp screw:
❖ move throttle control lever to stop and hold it in that position.
❖ while holding the control lever in the stop position, pull the
casing back through the casing clamp as far as possible.
6. Tighten clamp screw.
7. Route the throttle cable casing along the right handlebar as shown
on page 13. Use the two plastic cable ties provided to attach the
cable to the handlebar in the places shown. Draw the ties very
tight. Trim excess cable tie.
8. Replace belt guard.

❒ Adjust Throttle Control 1. Remove air cleaner cover and filter.

2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
Autochoke and Kill
Functions

CAUTION
To prevent accidental starting when adjusting
controls, always DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG
WIRE FROM THE SPARK PLUG.
3. Move throttle control all the way forward to choke position.
Choke valve in carburetor should be closed as shown. If not,
adjust according to the following instructions.

If choke does not fully close:

CAUTION
Moving the cable casing too far forward in
clamp will prevent "STOP" function from
operating.
❖ loosen cable casing clamp screw on carburetor.
❖ advance cable casing forward until choke valve just closes.
4. Tighten cable casing clamp screw.
5. Replace air cleaner cover and filter.
6. Reattach spark plug wire to spark plug.
NOTE: Repeat this procedure to adjust throttle control functions after 3
hours of operation, or if engine is hard to start or run-on occurs.
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UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

❒ Attach Shift Lever Rod 1. Pass the lower end of the shift lever rod through the grommet in
the upper crossbar of the handlebar as shown.
NOTE: Shift handle should point downward.
2. Pass the lower end of the shift lever rod
through pivot on the left side of
the rod crank as shown.
3. Slide pin through hole
in shift lever rod.

❒ Fill Engine Crankcase 1. Add and change oil according to chart below. Do not overfill. Use
a high quality detergent oil classified "For Service SC, SD, SE,
SF, SG," such as Briggs & Stratton "Warranty Certified" SAE 30
oil, part no. 100005. Use no special additives with recommended
oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Adapted from Briggs & Stratton Corporation, form No. 272646-10/93

*Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines. Use of multi-
viscosity oils (10W-30, etc.) above 40o F (4o C) will result in high oil
consumption and possible engine damage. Check oil level more frequently
if using these types of oils.
**SAE 30 oil, if used below 40o F (4o C), will result in hard starting and
possible engine bore damage due to inadequate lubrication.
Engine is shipped from factory without oil. You
IMPORTANT must add engine oil before starting engine.

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ARDISAM

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

2. Always check oil level before starting engine. Add oil as shown
below: oil capacity is about 2/3 quart (21 ounces or 0.6 liters).

Adapted from Briggs & Stratton Corporation, form No. 272646-10/93

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 ARDISAM

CONTROLS AND ADJUSTMENTS

Section Checklist ❑ Wheel Lockout Butterflies--place wheels in free wheel
Shift Lever Rod
or tilling position
Throttle Control ❑ Shift Lever Rod--select forward, neutral, and reverse and
engage tines and wheels
❑ Forward Belt--adjust tilling speed
T-clamp ❑ Drag Stake--adjust tilling depth
Belt Guard ❑ T-clamp--adjust handlebar height
Drag Stake ❑ Throttle Control--start and stop engine and adjust engine
speed

Wheel Lockout
Butterfly

CAUTION
PLEASE!
Before operating your tiller, learn the location
and function of all controls by reading this
section and the safety section.

❒ Wheel Lockout Butterflies Place wheels in free wheel or tilling position.

To change wheel from free wheel to tilling position:

1. Pull knob away from machine until wheel lockout
CAUTION butterfly rotates.

Never start engine or operate tiller with wheels 2. Rotate knob 90o so wheel lockout butterfly aligns with
in free wheel position. The free-wheel position neutral slot.
is for transporting the tiller long distances over 3. Release knob.
level ground--do not attempt to move the tiller
up or down steep grades in the free-wheel 4. Repeat for other wheel.
position. NOTE: Always have
both wheel lockout
butterflies in or out. Do
not operate tiller with
only one wheel
locked. Wheel lockout butterfly
in tilling position.

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 ARDISAM
CONTROLS AND ADJUSTMENTS
❒ Shift Lever Rod
CAUTION
This information is provided here only to
introduce the controls. DO NOT START THE
ENGINE AT THIS TIME. Starting and operating
instructions are given on page 20. Please read
this section and all operating and safety
instructions before starting your tiller.
IMPORTANT
❖ As a safety precaution, the shift lever rod will
not lock in reverse.
❖ To stop the wheels and tines at any time,
release the shift lever rod.
❒ Forward Belt Position
CAUTION
Engine must be turned off and cool, and spark
plug wire must be removed from spark plug
before attempting to change belt speed.
IMPORTANT
Forward belt does not have alternate positions.
Select forward, neutral, and reverse, and engage tines and wheels.
You will use the shift lever rod to engage the tines and wheels in
forward and in reverse. Releasing the shift lever rod to neutral when
in reverse, will disengage the tines and wheels.
1. To put the tiller in forward, push the shift lever rod down. To stop
the tines and wheels, pull the shift lever rod to the neutral
position.
2. To put the tiller in reverse, pull the shift lever back as far as
possible and hold it in that position. The shift lever will not lock
in reverse. When the shift lever is released, the tiller will return to
neutral.
3. To put the tiller in neutral, pull back on the shift lever rod and
release. The shift lever will automatically return to the neutral
position.
NOTE: Keep feet clear of tines at all times. When operating, always
keep a firm grip on the handlebars.
Adjust tilling speed setting.
Your tiller was shipped with the forward belt in the low speed
position. Keep the tiller in this low speed position for most jobs and,
especially, until you become familiar with its operation. To change
the tiller to the high speed setting:
1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
3. Place shift lever rod in neutral.
4. Remove belt guard.
belt is pictured in low
speed setting:
- at engine, forward belt
is on smaller pulley
- at transmission, forward
belt is on larger pulley
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 ARDISAM

CONTROLS AND ADJUSTMENTS

5. Move forward belt to high speed position:
IMPORTANT
- WITH ENGINE OFF and SPARK PLUG DISCONNECTED and
Forward belt must be positioned on either the front SHIFT LEVER ROD IN NEUTRAL, turn the engine over slowly
pulleys at both the engine and transmission (for by using short pulls on the engine recoil rope. This will cause the
high speed), OR the rear pulleys at both the engine pulleys to rotate.
and transmission (for low speed). Never cross the
belt from a front pulley to a rear pulley. - With the pulleys turning, first guide the forward belt onto the
smaller pulley at the transmission, and then onto the larger pulley
at the engine. NOTE: You must make the change in this order.
NOTE:
High speed position - forward belt is on pulleys toward the
front of the tiller (large diameter pulley at the engine, small
diameter pulley at the transmission).
Low speed position - forward belt is on pulleys toward the rear
forward belt is of the tiller (small diameter pulley at the engine, large
shown on rear diameter pulley at the transmission).
pulleys, correctly
positioned for low
speed 6. Replace belt guard.
7. Replace spark plug wire.

❒ Drag Stake Adjust tilling depth.

Tilling depth is controlled by adjusting the drag stake. During
assembly, you installed the drag stake in the transport position, with
the tines clear of the ground and the detent pin positioned in the top
hole of the drag stake.
CAUTION 1. Remove detent pin.
Always set the drag stake in the transport 2. Raise the drag stake to position tines at chosen tilling depth.
position before starting engine, that is, place
the detent pin in the highest hole of the drag 3. Align holes and replace detent pin.
stake. Drag Stake Down =
shallower tilling.
Place the detent pin
CAUTION in the top hole of the
Do not adjust tilling depth unless shift lever rod drag stake for
is in neutral. Drag Stake Up = shallowest tilling
deeper tilling. Place and transport.
the detent pin in the
bottom hole of the
drag stake for
deepest tilling.

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 ARDISAM
CONTROLS AND ADJUSTMENTS
❒ T-clamp
❒ Throttle Control
CAUTION
This information is provided here only to
introduce the controls. DO NOT START THE
ENGINE AT THIS TIME. Starting and operating
instructions are given on page 20. Please read
this section and all operating and safety
instructions before starting your tiller.
Adjust handlebar height.
The ideal height of the handlebar varies with operator height and the
depth of tilling. To adjust handlebar height:
1. Unscrew T-clamp until handlebar moves freely up and down.
2. Align locator pin to desired hole in the height adjustment bracket
by raising or lowering handlebars.
3. Retighten T-clamp firmly.
3 handlebar height settings
high
medium
low
T-clamp
Start and stop engine and adjust engine speed.
The throttle control regulates engine speed, starting, and stopping.
The auto choke is engaged when the throttle control is moved
forward until it stops.
1. To increase engine speed, move the throttle control forward (away
from the operator) until desired speed is reached.
2. To actuate the auto choke, move the throttle control forward until
it stops.
3. To stop the engine, move throttle control to rear (closest to
operator).
auto choke position
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OPERATION AND TILLING TIPS

Section Checklist ❑ Check Oil and Gas Levels
❑ Check Position of Wheels, Wheel Lockout Butterflies and
Wheel Lockpins
CAUTION ❑ Check Drag Stake Adjustment
Please do not start your tiller until you have ❑ Start the Engine
read the Manual that came with your engine,
and the sections in this manual titled Controls ❑ Tilling
and Adjustments and Safety. If you have read ❑ Turning
these, follow the steps below to start your tiller.
Always perform this pre-start checklist before ❑ Tilling Tips
starting the engine. ❑ Cultivating

❒ Check Oil and Gas Levels
CAUTION
Never add gas when engine is running or hot
from operation. Never fill the tank indoors.
1. If you did not already add oil, add it now by following instructions
on pages 13-14. Always check oil level before starting engine.
2. If necessary, add fuel. Use clean, fresh, lead-free gasoline with a
minimum of 77 octane. (Refer to your engine manual for further
information on fuel.)

IMPORTANT
The engine is shipped without oil. YOU MUST ADD
ENGINE OIL BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

❒ Check Position of Wheels,

Wheel Lockout Butterflies CAUTION
Wheels must always be locked in the TILLING
and Wheel Lockpins position when engine is running. Do not
operate the tiller without the wheel lockout
butterflies or wheel lockpins installed or with
the wheel lockout butterflies or with the wheel
lockpins unlocked. Always set the wheels in
tilling position before starting engine.

❒ Check Drag Stake

Adjustment CAUTION
Always put the drag stake in the transport
position before starting engine. Tines should
clear the ground.

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OPERATION AND TILLING TIPS

❒ Start the Engine 1. Put the shift lever rod in neutral.
2. Put throttle lever in choke position if engine is cold. Put throttle
lever in warm start position if engine is warm.
3. Pull start the engine. Throttle down to slow as it begins to run
smoothly. Let engine warm for a few minutes before beginning to
till.
To stop the engine at any time, move the throttle
IMPORTANT control to stop position (the position closest to the
operator).

To stop the wheels or tines at any time, release

IMPORTANT the shift lever rod (if tiller is in forward or reverse).

NOTE: To pull start the engine, stand to the right of the tiller. Grasp
the recoil rope and pull rapidly, but let it draw back more slowly. If
the engine does not start in 5 or 6 tries, check the troubleshooting
guide for suggestions.

❒ Tilling
CAUTION
To stop wheels and tines at any time, put shift
lever rod in the neutral position.
CAUTION
Always place the shift lever rod in neutral
before adjusting the drag stake.
Practice adjusting the controls and operating the tiller with tines out
of ground before beginning to till. It is important that you know how
to use the tiller properly, how to keep control at all times, how to
stop the tines and wheels from turning, and how to kill the engine if
necessary. If you do not know how to do these things, read the
Controls and Adjustments and Safety sections before proceeding.
1. Adjust the drag stake to desired tilling depth.
❑ make sure shift lever rod is in neutral and place throttle control
at slow.
❑ remove the detent pin.
❑ raise the drag stake to increase tilling depth; lower the drag
stake to decrease tilling depth.
❑ reinsert detent pin.
NOTE: Raise drag stake up one hole at a time, testing tiller
operation after each raise. Raising drag stake too high can result in
loss of control of tiller!
2. Place the tiller in forward by pushing down on the shift lever rod-
-this will reengage wheels and tines.
3. Move the throttle control to fast.
NOTE: You can slow the tiller's forward advance at any time by
putting slight downward pressure on the handlebars, or you can stop
the tiller by pulling up on the shift lever rod into the neutral position.

20

OPERATION AND TILLING TIPS
❒ Turning
CAUTION
Keep feet and clothes clear of the tines.
❒ Tilling Tips
CAUTION
Extreme caution must be taken in selecting
tilling depth. If you attempt to till too deeply for
soil conditions, that is, with the drag stake in
too high a position, loss of control could result.
CAUTION
If removing material from the tines by hand,
stop engine and remove spark plug wire first.
❒ Cultivating Tips
ARDISAM
1. Move throttle control to slow.
2. Raise the handlebar to elevate the tines.
3. Push the handlebars to the right or left to complete the turn.
4. When you have completed the turn, lower the handlebars to lower
the tines.
5. Move throttle to fast.
The key to successful tilling is to begin with a shallow cut on the first
pass, and then work an inch or two deeper on each successive pass.
❑ Tilling depth will vary with ground conditions. When beginning
to till in unbroken ground or in extremely hard soil, set the detent
pin in the highest hole of the drag stake (follow instructions under
Tilling on previous page). This will allow for shallow tilling.
With the drag stake in this position, make several light passes
over the area to be tilled. Reset for deeper depths with successive
passes.
❑ If tiller jumps or skids uncontrollably, lower the drag stake by
placing the detent pin in a higher hole. This will allow for
shallower tilling. Hold firmly to the handlebars to control sudden
lurches and to brake forward motion to desirable speed.
❑ If weeds, tall grasses, vines, or other materials clog or jam the
tines, occasionally reverse the tiller to unwind and remove
vegetation.
Immediately put the shift lever rod in neutral if tines jam or you
strike a foreign object. With shift lever rod in neutral, push
throttle to stop to kill the engine. Disengage the spark plug wire.
When tines have stopped, remove foreign objects and check for
damage.
NOTE: Your tiller was shipped with the forward belt in the low
speed position. Once you have become familiar with your tiller's
operation, you may want to change to the high speed setting. To do
this, follow the instructions in Controls and Adjustments, page 16.
If you plan to use your tiller for cultivating:
❑ Plant rows on 20" - 22" centers for ease of turning.
❑ Set the drag stake with the detent pin in one of the higher holes.
This will allow the shallow cultivation necessary to turn over
weeds, and break up and aerate the soil.
❑ If you have a large area to cultivate and are familiar with the
tiller, use the high speed setting (follow the instructions in
Controls and Adjustments, page 16). However, when tilling near
vine crops, the low speed setting provides better control and will
reduce the chance of injuring plants.
21
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

Section Checklist ❑ Check Forward Belt Tension
❑ Check Reverse Belt/Change Reverse Belt

CAUTION ❑ Perform Engine Maintenance

❑ Check Tiller Transmission Grease
To prevent accidental starting:
❑ Clean Tine Axle Shaft
❑ Check Tire Pressure
❑ Adjust Throttle
❑ Prepare for Storage
Engine must be turned off and cool, and spark
plug wire must be removed from spark plug
before checking and adjusting engine or
equipment.

❒ Check Forward Belt Forward belt tension will always decrease over time. It must be
adjusted within the first half hour of operation, and checked after
Tension every two hours of operation. Proper adjustment will assure long belt
life. Too much or too little belt tension will cause premature belt
failure. To check and adjust the forward belt tension screw:
CAUTION
1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
Check the forward belt tension screw regularly.
Too much or too little tension will cause 2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
premature belt failure.

shifting base plate

3. Measure the distance between the tension screw and the
bell crank pivot. (The tension screw is located between
the rod crank and the bell crank on the left side of the
tiller.) The bottom of the head of the tension screw
should be 1/4 inch from the pivot (see drawing above).
4. If necessary, use a screwdriver to properly adjust the
tension screw. For fine adjustment, turning the tension
screw left or counterclockwise will increase belt
tension. Turning the tension screw right or clockwise
pivot
will decrease belt tension.
forward belt tension screw 5. Reattach spark plug wire.

22
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

❒ Check Reverse Belt/ The amount of force used to pull the shift lever into reverse controls
the tension on the reverse belt. To check the reverse belt for wear:
Change Reverse Belt 1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.
2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
3. Place shift lever in neutral.
4. Remove belt guard.
5. Inspect the reverse belt for excessive wear or stretch.
6. If necessary, replace the reverse belt as
follows:
❑ remove the forward belt from the forward
engine pulley:
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to
rotate the pulley.
- with the pulley turning, force the
forward belt out of the V-groove.
- slide the belt free of the engine pulley.
- pull the forward belt down and out of
the way.
❑ remove the reverse belt from the reverse engine pulley:
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley.
- with the pulley turning, force the reverse belt out of the V-
groove.
- slide the belt free of engine pulleys and reverse belt guides.
- pull belt down and away from transmission pulley.
❑ install new reverse belt:
- thread belt up from bottom.
- place belt around transmission pulley in groove.
- place belt under reverse belt guides.
- gently pull engine recoil rope while forcing the belt over the
edge of the engine pulley into the V-groove.
❑ replace forward belt:
- place forward belt in transmission pulley groove.
- gently pull the engine recoil rope to rotate the pulley while
forcing the forward belt into the vee groove.
7. Replace belt guard.
8. Reattach spark plug wire.

23
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

❒ Engine Maintenance Refer to the engine manual included in your parts packet for
information on engine maintenance. Your engine manual provides
detailed information and a maintenance schedule for performing the
CAUTION following tasks:

Do not operate tiller before reading the engine
manual provided in the parts packet.
1. Check oil level every 5 hours of operation, or daily (follow the
maintenance schedule included with your engine manual).
2. Change oil after first 5 hours of operation. Change oil while
engine is warm. Refill with new oil of recommended grade.
3. Check air cleaner. See engine manual for instructions.
4. Keep engine and parts clean. See engine manual for instructions
on cleaning finger guard/rotating screen, linkage, springs and
controls, muffler area, cooling system, and spark plug.
Engine can overheat and become damaged if
IMPORTANT debris blocks the cooling system or rotating screen.

❒ Check Tiller Transmission Your tiller has a transmission separate from the engine transmission.
It is shipped with the proper amount of 00 liquid grease. Check the
Grease grease level annually (more frequently if leakage occurs around the
seals). To check the grease level:
1. Move tiller to level ground.

2. Remove grease level check-plug, located above the tine shaft on

the right side of the tiller transmission. Grease level is correct
when grease seeps from the plug hole. If grease does not seep
from the plug hole:

The tiller transmission holds just under a quart of

IMPORTANT grease when filled to the proper level. In normal
operation, it does not lose fluid.

24
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

- locate the filler hole under the handle bar attachment and
remove the plug.

- add small quantities of 00 liquid grease through the filler hole

until grease seeps from the check-plug hole. DO NOT
OVERFILL.
- replace grease level check-plug in the check-plug hole.
3. Replace grease level fill-plug in the filler hole.

❒ Periodic Cleaning of the 1. Turn off engine. Engine must be cool.

2. Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
Tine Axle Shaft

3. Tip the tiller forward. Block the tiller in position so that it rests on
the engine mount and the tines are exposed.
4. Remove all vegetation, string, wire, and other material that may
have accumulated on the axle between the inside set of tines and
the seal on the transmission housing.
5. Replace the tiller in a level position.
6. Replace spark plug wire.

❒ Storage Follow the steps below to prepare your tiller for storage. Read your
engine manual for detailed instructions on preparing the engine for
storage.
1. Protect wheels and axles from rust:
- Loosen locking bolt inside wheel. Slide wheel toward machine.
- Coat the axles lightly with axle grease.
- Move wheel back into position and snug locking bolt. Back off
locking bolt 1/16 turn and lock jam nut.
25
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

CAUTION
Do not store tiller in an unventilated area where
fuel fumes may reach flame, sparks, pilot lights
or an ignited object. Drain fuel outdoors away
from any ignition sources. Use only approved
fuel containers.
2. Run with gas stabilizer in fuel. Screen in carburetor will glaze
shut if gas stabilizer is not used before storage.
3. Drain the fuel tank. Run the engine until it stops.
4. While engine is still warm, drain the oil from the engine. Refill
with fresh oil of the recommended grade.
5. Remove spark plug, pour one-half ounce of clean engine oil into
cylinder. Pull starter handle slowly several times to distribute oil.
Replace spark plug.
6. Clean entire tiller, especially cylinder, cylinder head fins, blower
housing, rotating screen, and muffler areas.
7. Store your tiller in a clean, dry building.

❒ Check Tire Pressure Recommended tire pressure is 20 PSI. If tires do not have equal
pressure, tiller will pull to one side.

❒ Throttle Adjustment After first 3 hours of operation, or if engine is hard to start or run-on
occurs, repeat throttle control adjustment procedure (Unpacking and
Assembly, page 12).

26
 ARDISAM

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

❒ Tiller and Engine Your tiller will require maintenance including service and
adjustments before and after use. To help ensure long life and peak
Maintenance Schedule performance for your tiller, follow the maintenance schedule below.
Refer to your Briggs & Stratton manual to establish a maintenance
schedule for the engine.

Maintenance Operation See Page # Before Each Use 50 hrs or

Every Season

Check forward drive belt tension _____ 22 ___________ ✓

Check reverse drive belt ___________ 23 _______________________________ ✓
Check tiller transmission oil ________ 24-25 ______________________________ ✓
Clean tine axle shaft ______________ 25 _______________________________ ✓
Lube wheel axle shaft _____________ 25 _______________________________ ✓
Check tire pressure _______________ 26 _______________________________ ✓
Check throttle control adjustment ____ 26 _______________________________ 1
Check engine oil level _____________ EM ___________ ✓
Change engine oil ________________ EM _______________________________ 2

EM = See engine manual.

1 Adjust throttle control after first 3 hours of operation or if engine is hard to start or run-on occurs.
2 Change oil after first 5 hours, then after every 50 hours or every season. Change oil every 25 hours when operating
under heavy load or in high temperatures.

27
 ARDISAM
SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR
Section Checklist
❒ Service Information
❒ Ordering Repair Parts
❑ Service Information
❑ Ordering Repair Parts
❑ Troubleshooting Guide
❑ Parts Listings
At Ardisam, we build quality and durability into the design of our
products; but no amount of careful design by us, and careful
maintenance by you, can guarantee a repair-free life for your tiller.
Most repairs will be minor, and easily fixed by following the
suggestions in the troubleshooting guide in this section. The guide
will help you pinpoint the causes of common problems and identify
remedies.
For more complicated repairs, you may want to rely on your retailer
or an authorized mechanic (contact your retailer for a list of
authorized mechanics in your area). A parts catalog is included in
this section.
We will always be glad to answer any questions you have, or help
you find suitable assistance. To order parts, inquire about warranty,
or contact us for any reason, call or write us at the address below.
Parts can be obtained from the store where your rototiller was
purchased or direct from the factory. To order from the factory, call
or write to:
ARDISAM, INC.
MOWERS ★ POWER AUGERS ★ ROTOTILLERS ★
ARDISAM
st
1360 1 Avenue; P.O. Box 666
Cumberland, Wisconsin 54829
(715) 822-2415 Fax (715) 822-4180
1-800-3456-007
Please include the following information with your order:
1. Part numbers
2. Part description
3. Quantity
4. Model number and serial number
28

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR
❒ Troubleshooting
Problem
Engine will not start
Engine runs rough, floods during operation
Engine is hard to start
Engine misses or lacks power
Engine will not stop when throttle control is
positioned at stop
Tiller moves forward during starting
Tiller is difficult to control when tilling
(machine jumps or lurches forward)
Tines turn, wheels do not turn
CAUTION
Practice safety at all times. Engine must be
turned off and allowed to cool, and spark plug
wire must be disconnected before attempting
any maintenance or repair.
Possible cause
1. Spark plug wire disconnected
2. Throttle control in wrong position
3. Throttle cable casing improperly adjusted
1. Dirty air cleaner
1. Throttle cable casing improperly adjusted
2. Stale fuel
3. Spark plug wire lose
4. Shift lever rod in forward
1. Engine overload--drag stake is set too high
(that is, the tilling depth is too deep)
2. Clogged fuel tank
3. Clogged air cleaner
4. Improper carburetor adjustment
5. Spark plug dirty, improper gap, or wrong
type
6. Oil in gasoline
1. The throttle cable casing may need
adjustment
1. Shift lever rod in forward
1. Wheels not engaged in tilling position
2. Drag stake is set too high (that is, the tilling
depth is too deep)
1. Wheels not engaged in tilling position
2. Internal transmission failure
29
ARDISAM
Remedy/Action
1. Connect spark plug wire to spark plug
2. Throttle must be positioned at choke for a
cold start, or at warm start if already warm
(see page 20 for instructions)
3. See page 12 to check and adjust throttle
cable casing
1. Clean or replace air cleaner
1. See page 12 to check and adjust throttle
cable casing
2. Drain old fuel and replace with fresh. Use
gas stabilizer at end of season
3. Make sure spark plug wire is securely
attached to spark plug
4. Shift lever rod must be in neutral to start
the engine
1. Raise the tines for shallower tilling by
lowering the drag stake, see page 17
2. Remove and clean fuel tank
3. Clean or replace air cleaner
4. Take to authorized Briggs & Stratton
service center
5. Replace spark plug and adjust gap
6. Drain and refill gas tank and carburetor
1. See page 12 to check and adjust throttle
cable casing
1. Shift lever rod must be in neutral to start
the engine
1. Lock wheels in tilling position, see page 15
2. Raise the tines for shallower tilling by
lowering the drag stake, see page 17
1. Lock wheels in tilling position, see page 15
2. See retailer or authorized mechanic
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

Problem Possible cause Remedy/Action
Tines turn, wheels turn, tiller does not move 1. Drag stake is set too low (that is, the tilling 1. Lower the tines for deeper tilling by raising
depth is too shallow) the drag stake, see page 17

Belts squeal in neutral and/or reverse
forward belt guide
1. Forward belt guide is out of adjustment
1. Adjust forward belt guide:
- turn engine off and allow muffler to cool
- disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug
- lock shift lever rod in forward
- remove belt guard
- manually bend forward belt guide so ther
is 1/16 inch or less clearance between belt
guide and belt
- replace belt guard and spark plug wire

Belts squeal in forward operation
reverse belt guide
1. Tabs on the reverse belt guide are out of
adjustment
1. Adjust tabs on the reverse belt guide
- turn engine off and allow muffler to cool
- disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug
- lock shift lever rod in neutral
- remove belt guard
- adjust tabs of reverse belt guide:
while pulling up on shift lever rod, bend
metal tabs on reverse belt guide to 1/64
inch or less clearance from reverse belt
- replace belt guard and spark plug wire

Excessive heat build up in transmission/tine
area during tilling
1. Build up of vegetation or foreign materials
on tine axle
2. Transmission fluid level is low
1. Remove vegetation by following
instructions in Tilling Tips on page 21 of
Operation and Tilling Tips section.
FOLLOW ALL SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
2. Check fluid and fill if needed by following
instructions on pages 24-25

30
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D HANDLEBAR ASSEMBLY

Part #Description Qty.

101A THROTTLE CONTROL, (Includes #102) 1
102 KNOB-Throttle Control 1
103 SCREW-Rd Hd, #10-32 x 1/2" 2
104 LOCK WASHER-Spring, #10 2
105 NUT-Hex Nyloc, #10-32 2
106 TIE-Plastic, Black 2
202 SHIFT LEVER ROD 1
203 SHIFT LEVER SLEEVE, 5/16" ID 1
204 HAIR PIN 1
205 GROMMET-Plastic, Shift Lever 1
301R HANDLEBAR ASSEMBLY 1
(Includes #302, #304A, #304GS, #305)
302 T-CLAMP 1
304A DECAL-Handlebar, Throttle/Push-pull 1
304GS DECAL-Handlebar, Garden Star Logo 1
305 HANDLE GRIP, Black 2
719 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 3/8" 1
2102 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1", Grade 5 2
2104 NUT-Hex, 3/8"-16 2
WF38 FLAT WASHER, 3/8" 1
31
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 3515D HANDLEBAR ASSEMBLY

ION
RS
VE
LD
O

Part # Description Qty. Part # Description Qty.

3H SPRING SPRING-Drive Control Lever 1 1406A L BRACKET-Forward Belt Guide 1
60G56 NUT, 5/16"-18 3 1406B L BRACKET-Right Pulley Holder 1
107 CABLE-Lanyard 1 1407 SPRING-Idler Arm 1
108 S-HOOK 1 1408 PULLEY-Forward Idler 1
109 CONTROL LEVER-Drive Safety 1 1412R IDLER ARM-Forward 1
110 BRACKET-Length Adjustment 1 1418 COTTER PIN 1
111 BOLT, 5/16"-18 x 1-1/2" 1 1423 BOLT-Hex, 5/16"-18 x 2", Grade 5 1
112 SCREW-HHCS, 1/4"-20 x 1-1/2" 1 1424 BUSHING-Pivot 1
113 NUT-Nyloc, 1/4"-20 1 1510 PLUG-Oil Fill 1
300 HANDLEBAR 1 1512R COVER-Transmission Wheel Housing 1
304GS3 DECAL-Handlebar, Garden Star Logo 1 2102 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1", Grade 5 3
305 HANDLE GRIP, Black 2 2104 NUT-Hex, 3/8"-16 3
417 BOLT-Hex, 5/16"-18 x 1/2", Grade 5 1 8932 NUT-Keps, 1/4"-20 1
718 PULLEY-V Groove Belt Guide 1 WF38 FLAT WASHER, 3/8" 3
719 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 3/8" 2 WF516 FLAT WASHER, 5/16" 3
32
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D TINE HOOD AND DRAG STAKE ASSEMBLY

Part # Description Qty.

401R DEPTH REGULATOR 1
402R BRACKET-Depth Regulator 1
406R BRACKET-Depth Regulator, S/N 12846 & up 1
409 DETENT PIN, 5/16" 1
410 BOLT-Hex Flange Hd, 5/16"-18 x 1/2" 2
414R HOOD-Tiller, w/o Decals, S/N 12846 & up 1
415A HOOD-Tiller, w/o Decals 1
417 BOLT-Hex Hd, 5/16"-18 x 1/2", Grade 5 2
504 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 5/16" 2
509 BOLT-Hex Hd, 1/4"-20 x 1/2" 2
LBL516C DECAL-Tiller Hood (Operating Instructions) 1

Part # Description Qty. Part # Description Qty.

719 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 3/8" 16 2001 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1-3/4" 2
1900R BOLO TINE HOLDER REPLACEMENT KIT 1 2003R BOLO TINE, Right Side 8
(Complete, both sides, assembled, #719, #2001, 2004R BOLO TINE, Left Side 8
#2003R, #2004R, #2101R, #2102, #2104) 2101R HOLDER-Bolo Tine, Left & Right Sides 2
1901R BOLO TINE REPLACEMENT KIT 1 2102 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1", Grade 5 16
(Includes #719, #2003R, #2004R, #2102, #2104 2104 NUT-Hex, 3/8"-16 18
Does not include bolo tine holders)

33
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D MOTOR MOUNT ASSEMBLY

34
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

Part # Description Qty. Part # Description Qty.
60G56 NUT, 5/16"-18 4 804 KEY, 3/16" X 1" 2
501A ENGINE-5HP, Briggs & Stratton 1 805 FLAT WASHER, 11/16" ID, (as req'd.) 1
501E ENGINE-5HP, Briggs & Stratton, Electric 1 1101AD WHEEL-Tire Assembly, Left 1
504 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 5/16" 10 1102AD WHEEL-Tire Assembly, Right 1
506R BRACKET-Engine Mount, Right Side 1 1103A KNOB-Wheel Lockout 2
507R BRACKET-Engine Mount, Left Side 1 1103B BUTTERFLY, Set of 2 2
508R GUARD-Lower Pulley 1 1103C SNAP RING 2
510R PLATE-Height Adjustment Bracket 1 1202 WING NUT, 5/16"-18 2
711 BELT GUIDE-Reverse 1 1203R SHROUD-Belt Guard 1
712 SCREW-HHCS, 5/16"-24 x 1/2" 1 1402 SCREW-SHCS, 5/16"-18 x 1-1/4" 4
714A PULLEY-Engine Reverse 1 1423 BOLT-Hex, 5/16"-18 x 2", Grade 5 2
715 SET SCREW, 1/4"-20 x 1/4" 1 1439 WASHER, 1/4" ID 2
716 BELT-Reverse 1 1501 BOLT-Hex Flange Hd, 5/16"-18 x 3/4" 5
717 BOLT-Hex Hd, 5/16"-24 x 1-3/4" 1 2102 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1", Grade 5 2
718 PULLEY-Belt Guide, V-Groove 1 8655 SCREW-HHCS, 5/16"-18 x 1-3/4" 4
719 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 3/8" 2 8905F SPRING 2
722 SPACER-Engine Pulley 1 8931 SCREW-SHCS, 1/4"-20 x 2" 2
724 PULLEY-Engine Forward 1 8932 NUT-Keps, 1/4"-20 2
727A BELT-Forward 1 GUARDR BUMPER GUARD, Red 1
728 BELT GUIDE-Forward 1 LBL516C DECAL-Belt Warning 1
801A PULLEY-Transmission 1 WF516 FLAT WASHER, 5/16" 2
802 BOLT-Hex Hd, 5/16"-24 x 3/4", Grade 5 2 WK5 WOODRUFF KEY, #5 1
803 WASHER 2

35
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

Part # Description Qty. Part # Description Qty.

402R BRACKET-Depth Regulator 1 1507 GASKET-Front Rear Bearing Cap 2
406R BRACKET-Depth Regulator, S/N 12846 & up 1 1508R CAP-Rear Bearing 1
1500G TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY, Wheel Lockpin 1 1510 PLUG-Oil Fill 1
(Complete with all gears, shafts, seals, etc.) 1511 BOLT-Hex Flange Hd, 1/4"-20 x 7/8" 3
1500R TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY, Wheel Lockpin 1 1512R COVER-Transmission Wheel Housing 1
S/N 12846 & up 1514R CAP-Front Bearing 1
(Complete with all gears, shafts, seals, etc.) 1515 OIL SEAL-Drive Shaft 1
1501 BOLT-Hex Flange Hd, 5/16"-18 x 3/4" 8 1516 BOLT-Hex Flange Hd, 1/4"-20 x 3/4" 3
Tiller Housing & Transmission Cover 1517 GASKET KIT-Oil Seal, (Includes two #1504, 1
1504 GASKET-Tiller Housing & Transmission Cover 2 four #1506, two #1507, two #1513, one #1515)
1505 PIPE PLUG, 1/4" Soc Hd, Oil Level Drain 2 1690 TRANSMISSION GREASE-1 quart 1
1506 SEAL-Tiller Housing 4

36
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D SHIFTING MECHANISM ASSEMBLY

Part # Description Qty. Part #Description Qty.

60G56 NUT-Hex, 5/16"-18 7 1421R BASEPLATE-Forward/Reverse 1
204 HAIR PIN 1 1423 BOLT-Hex Hd, 5/16"-18 x 2, Grade 5 2
503 BOLT-Hex Hd, 5/16"-18 x 1-1/2" 1 1424 BUSHING-Pivot, 5/16" 3
504 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 5/16" 2 1426 BOLT-Hex Hd, 3/8"-16 x 1-1/4" 2
719 LOCK WASHER-Spring, 3/8" 2 1428R BELLCRANK 1
1202 WING NUT, 5/16"-18 2 1429 BUSHING-Bellcrank 2
1402 BOLT-Soc Hd, 5/16"-18 x 1-1/4" 4 1430 PIVOT-Lower Bellcrank 1
1406R MOUNTING BAR-Shifting Mechanism 2 1431 WASHER, 1/2" ID x 3/4" 3
1407 SPRING-Idler Arm 1 1432 SNAP RING-Retainer, External 3
1408 PULLEY-Forward Idler 1 1435 RODCRANK 1
1412R IDLER ARM-Forward 1 1436 PIVOT-Upper Threaded 1
1413 PULLEY-Reverse Idler 1 1437 PIVOT-Forward/Neutral/Reverse Lever 1
1415R IDLER ARM-Reverse 1 1438 SPRING 1
1416 LINK PIN- Forward/Reverse 2 1441 BOLT-Tension Screw Adjustment 1
1417 FLAT WASHER, 1/4" 4 2104 NUT-Hex, 3/8"-16 (Used to attach Reverse 4
1418 COTTER PIN 2 Idler Pulley to Reverse Idler Arm)
1419R REVERSE LINK 1 WF38 FLAT WASHER, 3/8" 6
1420R FORWARD LINK 1 WF516 FLAT WASHER, 5/16" 2

37
 ARDISAM

SERVICE, TROUBLESHOOTING, & REPAIR

MODEL 5020D WHEEL AND TILLER SHAFT ASSEMBLY

Part # Description Qty. Part # Description Qty.

1506 SEAL-Tiller Housing 4 1707 SHIM, 1.375 OD x .015" thick, (as req'd.)
1508R CAP-Rear Bearing 1 1708 SHIM, 1.375 OD x .010" thick, (as req'd.)
1515 OIL SEAL-Drive Shaft 1 1710 SNAP RING-Retainer, External 2
1600A MAIN DRIVE SHAFT 1 1801A TILLER SHAFT ASSEMBLY 1
1601 BEARING-Tapered, (Includes Cone & Race) 2 1803 WORM GEAR-Tiller Shaft 1
1700A WHEEL SHAFT ASSEMBLY 1 1804 SPACER, 1.250" x 1.000" x .062" thick 4
1701 KEY, 1/4" x 1" 2 1805 SHIM SET-Rear Bearing Cap 1
1702 WORM GEAR-Wheel Shaft 1 1806 SHIM, 1.750 OD x .062" thick, (as req'd.)
1703 SHIM SET-Axle Spacer Kit 4 1807 SHIM, 1.750 OD x .030" thick, (as req'd.)
1704 BUSHING 4 1808 SHIM, 1.750 OD x .015" thick, (as req'd.)
1705 SHIM, 1.375 OD x .062" thick, (as req'd.) 1809 SHIM, 1.750 OD x .010" thick, (as req'd.)
1706 SHIM, 1.375 OD x .030" thick, (as req'd.) 1810 SNAP RING-Retainer, Internal 4

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 ARDISAM

SPECIFICATIONS
GARDEN STAR Model 5020D
FEATURES
K 5HP Briggs & Stratton Engine
K High-Low Speed Selections
K Tractor Type Pneumatic Tires SPECIFICATIONS
K All Gear Drive Transmission Tilling Width: 16"
K Handlebar Height Adjustment Tilling Depth: 10"
K Forward/Reverse Control Wheels: 6" Pneumatic Tires
K Functional Drag Bar System Weight: 180 lbs.
K Wheel Lockout Control Width: 20"
K Self Cleaning Bolo Tines Height: 36"
K Bumper Guard Length: 51"
K Hiller-Furrower Attachment - Optional Speeds: 2 Speeds Forward/1 Speed Reverse

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ARDISAM

ACCESSORIES & OTHER PRODUCTS

Rototiller Options and
Accessories Available
❑ Hiller-Furrower Attachment
❑ Bumper Guard

Other Power Products

Manufactured by Ardisam, Inc.
Wood Chuck Portable Drill
❑ Model 8900
❑ Features 49cc, 2 cycle gas engine
❑ Drills holes in wood or steel
❑ Standard 1/2" chuck and chuck key included
Woodchuck Portable Drill

Earth Auger Powerheads

(one-operator and two-operator models available)
❑ Model 8900 1-operator
❑ Model 8901 1-operator
❑ Model 8902 2-operator
❑ Model 9000 1-operator
❑ Model 9200 2-operator
❑ Model 9400 1-operator

Earth Augers
❑ 10", 8", 6", 4", and 2" Earth Augers
Earth Auger Replacement Blades are Available
Earth Auger

OM5020DGS
Rev. 2/97
© Copyright 1997 Ardisam, Inc.
All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA.
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