Official Craftsman front-tine tiller parts

Most common Craftsman front-tine tiller parts that may need replacing

The tiller tines take the brunt of the work, digging into compacted soil to churn and aerate it. Over time, these blades can become worn, bent, or dull, leading to poor tilling results. If you're replacing them, our guide on how to replace the tines on a front-tine tiller walks you through the steps.

The clevis pin connects the tines to the rotating tine shaft. It's designed to shear off if the tines strike a hard object, protecting the drivetrain and engine from damage. If the tines aren't turning, the clevis pin could be broken or missing and needs replacement.

The depth stake helps set the tilling depth. Located near the tines, this metal rod controls how deep the tines penetrate the soil. A bent or worn depth stake can affect tilling performance and leave uneven results across your garden bed.

The recoil starter is the mechanism that engages the engine when you pull the starter cord. If the cord won’t retract or the engine doesn’t respond, you may need to replace the tiller's recoil starter.

Each of these Craftsman front-tine tiller parts plays a crucial role in how your tiller performs. Replacing them when they’re worn helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your machine tilling smoothly.

Troubleshooting Craftsman front-tine tiller performance issues

If your Craftsman front-tine tiller isn't running right, identifying the symptom is the first step toward fixing it. When an engine runs rough or misfires, it can be caused by problems in the ignition system, fuel delivery, or air intake. If you're hearing sputtering or inconsistent power, check out our guide on why your tiller’s engine runs roughly or misfires.

Poor soil performance is another frequent complaint. If the tines rotate but the soil isn't breaking up effectively, it may be time to inspect your tiller's tines, depth stake, or gearbox. To get back to full performance, review our tips on why your tiller might be turning the soil poorly.

Leaks can also be a concern. If you notice oil or gas pooling beneath your tiller or dripping from the engine area, follow our troubleshooting guide on why your tiller may be leaking oil or gas to trace the source and get it sealed up.

Whether it’s rough performance, uneven tilling, or leaks, Sears PartsDirect helps you troubleshoot your Craftsman front-tine tiller and find the right fix.

Get help with Craftsman front-tine tiller repairs

Repairing your tiller doesn't have to mean a trip to the shop. With the right Craftsman front-tine tiller parts and the right guidance, you can handle most fixes yourself. From replacing broken tines to diagnosing why the engine won't start, we’ve got you covered.

Our DIY tiller repair help page includes step-by-step repair guides, troubleshooting articles, and expert tips tailored to Craftsman tillers. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just learning the ropes, we’ll help you keep your garden tiller in working shape and ready for the next job.