#2 Tiller Tips and Tricks
 

I finally got my 1650 running right and was able to hook up the tiller. Looking for some tips to keep the belt on.

It turns great with the tiller up, but when I engage it in the ground, it either a.) squeals like crazy anytime I get in some rough soil and the tines stop or b.) I tighten it some more and it pops drive belt off when I get too deep or hit an obstacle.

This is fairly rocky and hard soil I've been working, so maybe it is what it is. I understand there needs to be some give somewhere, but it seems like it doesn't want to dig very deep. I was able get done what I needed with some very light passes and replacing the belt a few times. But I have some more land I need to till up and smooth out.

The mule drive pulleys seem to spin freely and appear relatively straight. The belt doesn't show sign of rubbing or wear, it just jumps off.

Did you plow the ground first?

No, don't have one.

I figured that was part of the problem. I really only need the top 2-3" plowed up as I'm planting grass. The manual doesn't reference needing it plowed first, but I figured it would be rough if it's not.

Jason, are you using a tiller mule drive or a mower mule?

I modified my mule drive for one of my 38" decks per the manual. Replaced the spring with another threaded adjuster.