Hi All,
Have now used the 'Handy Petrol Mini Tiller' a couple of times.
1. Centre of gravity is higher than machines where the engine is lower. However, the engine is a lightweight aluminium job so not really an issue.
2. Machine is quite manouverable but does tend to 'bounce' if it hits a solid buried object, due to lack of weight. Didn't fling things in the air as much as I thought it would-the blade guard does an OK job.
3. Blades are a bit fiddly to remove-I have a plot with an awful lot of rubbish in it and when something jammed the blades it was a 5 minute job to un-jam it. The 'cotter' pins used to secure the blades are easy to lose too so care needed to place them somewhere sensible.
4. Fuel tank lasts over an hour of tilling.
5. Transport wheels extend downwards to allow the machine to be moved. However, I still needed to 'stoop' to avoid the blades hitting the ground-it's easier just to carry the thing. The main shaft of the machine is padded which makes carrying it fairly easy.
6. Did a very good job. I found the best method was to run the machine forward over an area then drag it backwards. The blades really dig into the ground and produces a fine earth. Brings lots of stones an rubbish to the surface.
However, wet clay soil proved more difficult-will have to wait until it is dryer to do these sections.
7. Fuel mixing bottle seal is rubbish-ended up tipping fuel down my jeans.
8. Starts easily.
9. Noisy, but you get used to it.
10. Generic Chinese machine, built to a price.
Would I recommend it? Yes, if you are on a tight budget and are happy with a small machine.