Large Tillers
As noted elsewhere on this site, the classification of tillers into three categories: small, medium, and large is an arbitrary one.
The “Large Tiller” category on this site includes rear-tine walk-behind tillers, most of which have engines that are 8 HP or larger.
As you would expect, large tillers are designed for large gardens (as well as some commercial operations like orchards or nurseries). I consider any garden that is a quarter acre or larger to be a large garden. A quarter acre is just under 11,000 sq. ft. – about equal to the area on a football field inside the rectangle defined by the goal line, the 25 yard line, and both sidelines. This area on the football field may not look large from the grandstand, and it wouldn’t be considered a large lawn. But, it’s a large area when you’re tilling.
Advantages of Large Tillers
Large tillers simply get the job done faster. Large tillers have the power to turn soil over in one pass, and the tilling width is such that fewer passes are needed vs. small or medium sized tillers. Virtually all large tillers have the weight and power necessary to turn and mix soil and most low-growing plant material quite easily.
Most large rear-tine tillers offer some attachments, such as plows or furrowers. Because of it’s unique handle bar design, the BCS line of tillers offers the widest line of attachments. A BCS tiller can be converted into a power sweeper, a rotary brush mower, a sickle bar mower, a rotary lawn mower, a huge power sweeper, or even a chipper shredder.
Disadvantages of Large Tillers
The major disadvantage of large tillers is that they are more expensive and require more storage space than their smaller counterparts. But these disadvantages aren’t very important if you have a large garden.
Large tillers may require a little more maintenance, because they are larger and more complex machines and will probably be used for more hours vs. small tillers.
Most large tillers are single-purpose tools. While some tiller manufacturers offer attachments, most are designed solely for large tilling projects. They are not designed for small area cultivation, and cannot be used for edging or dethatching the lawn.
Of course, large tillers are not as nimble as small tillers. And, large tillers even those that can be operated with one hand generally require more effort to handle, simply because of their weight and size.
Manual or Electric Start?
Many large tiller manufacturers offer models with an electric start option. This option will add some cost, but the ease of push button starting vs. the effort of pulling a recoil cord to start a rather large engine may be well worth the extra cost.
Can you try before you buy?
If you are considering the purchase of a large tiller, it’s a good idea to “try before you buy” either by renting the model you’re considering, or asking a friend if you can try his or her tiller. Of course, you may have to try your friend’s tiller in your friend’s garden; but, at least you’ll get some “hands on” experience before making a big purchase.
|
 |
The troy Bilt tiller has forward rotating tines, with a cast-iron transmission and bronze gear drive. Some of their tillers with a 2-year limited manufacturer’s warranty as well as a limited lifetime transmission warranty.(More...)
|
|
|
 |
The Cub Cadet can turn even the hardest ground into fertile soil that's perfect for planting a garden or growing grass. (More...)
|
|
|
 |
*All Yard Machine tillers come standard with adjustable depth bars and a 2-year limited warranty. (More...)
|
|
|
 |
The White Outdoor RB 412 This high-performance model has a 205 cc Briggs and Stratton engine that might be the tiller you’re looking for if your dirt is severely dense or if it has not been tilled for a long period of time.(More...)
|
|
|
 |
The Ardisam Earthquake tillers provides incredible maneuverability. The Earthquake also is made of cast iron for ultimate durability (the added weight also provides better handling) (More...)
|
|
|
 |
The Honda tiller features an engine that is renown for its rugged dependability.(More...)
|
|
|
 |
*While other brands of tillers dig dirt, the BCS is a gardening machine. Prepare seedbeds, power compost, and cultivate with precision and ease.(More...)
|
|
|
 |
The Craftsman tillers are one of the most well known brands of tillers to go for since they are a Sears sponsored product. (More...)
|
|
|
 |
*The rear tine tillers are a terrific value for gardening enthusiasts who need a reliable machine to create workable soil for planting. (More...)
|
|
|
 |
*Maxim Tillers work as hard as you do. Designed for ease of use and maintenance, Maxim tillers offer simplicity.(More...)
|
|
|
 |
*Poulan Pro tractors, mowers, tillers, blowers, chainsaws and trimmers provide the latest and greatest features at industry leading prices. “Nothing cuts like a Pro.”(More...)
|
|
