36 inch Tiller Chain Problems ?

[tillerman 0]

My tiller just started making a loud clunking noise when I put it in the ground and start digging. After doing a search I figure it is probably a chain getting loose. I have taken the tines off and started dismantling the parts to get to the gearbox. Do I need to lay it on a certain side to open the gear case to avoid losing parts or does it matter. Just want a little info before parts start flying. Thanks for the Club. It is the greatest. Richard

[wilm169 1]

Not much to loose in there 3 sprockets and the chain.

[RedbarnRick 3]

Here's the repair manual,but being a Harley man chain drives should be right up your alley, hope this helps. http://www.simplicitytechpubs.com/6767PRINT/PDF_files/TP_500_0570_00_AT_S.pdf

[tillerman 0]

Thanks everyone for the response. Where is the best place to buy the chain. I figure the Simplicity (or Briggs) part is higher than going to a bearing store or is there someplace online I could order it? Thanks Rick for the manual link. Richard

[rsnik 1]

It is starting to feel like Christmas morning here. I just bought a 36 inch tiller and need this manual also. Thanks very much again Rick! tillerman I think chain comes in different sizes (like 415,420,428,520 etc). I have not torn my very used looking tiller down yet and will probably replace the chain. If the manual gives a clear indication of what the chain size is you can buy chain online from many sources, such as moto-chain.com. If I can't figure out what size the chain is I will have to take it into my local bearing shop.

[wilm169 1]

Farm tractor dealers keep a stock on hand, and will cut it to lenght for you. get a top grade of chain and conector link, such as double diamond, do not buy cheep chain or you will do it again.:(:(!:O I think it is a #50 chain.:D Some thing to remimber also is the lock on the conector must go on one way or it will not stay [open side to the pull or to the push side] ask where you buy the chain.

[tillerman 0]

Just finished tearing into the gearbox and cleaning all the grease out. The chains are two different sizes. The chain that pulls the tines is a size 50. The other two are size 40. They are all 28 inches long or very close to that length. Just a little info I thought I would share. Richard