CountyLine 48 in. Rotary Tiller
- Rotary tiller with forward and reverse rotation
- Oil bath lubrication with all gear driven driveline
- Self-sharpening heat-treated cutting tines
- Adjustable runners
Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Reliable and Durable Rototiller Brand
If you’re in the market for a new tiller, you may have come across the Countyline brand. Countyline tillers are tractor-mounted implements made by Tractor Supply Company that are designed for tilling soil, especially in large gardens, farms, and orchards. With many sizes and models available, Countyline aims to provide a heavy-duty and reliable tiller at an affordable price point.
Before purchasing a Countyline tiller, there are several factors you’ll want to take into consideration to ensure you select the right model for your needs. In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Countyline tillers including their key features, attachments, horsepower requirements, maintenance tips, reviews from other users, and much more.
What is a Countyline Tiller Used For?
A Countyline tiller, like most rototillers, is designed for tilling and cultivating soil prior to planting. The rotating tines will break up compacted soil and thoroughly mix amendments into the top layer to prepare seed beds and planting areas. Countyline tillers are primarily intended for large gardens, small farms, and orchards.
With Countyline’s heavy-duty transmission and tiller tines, it can easily power through tough soils such as clay or compacted earth. The tines will dig into the ground, breaking it up and overturning the soil. This leaves a soft, even surface ideal for planting. Countyline tillers are versatile enough to also cultivate existing garden beds and root vegetable patches.
In addition to tilling, some Countyline models come with attachments for furrowing, hilling, and ridging. This transforms the tiller into a multifunctional implement. Overall, a Countyline tiller is a great choice for any home gardener or small farmer looking to easily turn over and work through soil on a regular basis.
How Do You Attach a Countyline Tiller to a Tractor?
Countyline tillers are designed to be mounted to the three-point hitch on the back of a tractor. This provides them power and allows you to easily raise, lower, and control the tiller.
The procedure for attaching a Countyline tiller is relatively straightforward:
- Back the tractor up to align the hitch points with the mounting pins on the tiller.
- Securely pin the lower lift arms into place on the tiller’s lower hitch points using linchpins.
- Clip the top link of the tractor’s three-point hitch onto the tiller’s top bracket.
- Attach the driveline by lining up the splines and sliding together the two halves. Then secure the driveline safety shielding.
- Connect the power take-off (PTO) shaft from the tractor to the input shaft on the tiller.
- Ensure all hardware is tightened down and secured properly with linchpins.
- Carefully raise the tiller using the tractor’s hydraulic three-point hitch controls.
Always review the owner’s manual for specific instructions on attaching and setting up your Countyline tiller model. Take your time mounting the tiller to ensure a safe and secure connection to the tractor.
Where Can I Buy a Countyline Tiller?
Since Countyline is the store brand of Tractor Supply Company, these tillers are primarily sold at Tractor Supply locations throughout the United States. You can use the store locator tool on their website to find a Tractor Supply near you that stocks Countyline implements.
In addition to buying in-store, you can also order a Countyline tiller online through Tractor Supply’s website and have it shipped to your local store or residence. This may provide you access to a wider selection of models and inventory. However, you should still plan on inspecting the tiller thoroughly before accepting delivery.
Some other farm equipment retailers may also carry the Countyline brand in limited quantities. And you may be able to find a used Countyline tiller for sale through classified ads or auction sites if buying new is outside of your budget.
Overall, your best source for browsing, comparing, and purchasing a new Countyline tiller will be your local Tractor Supply store or their website. This ensures you get the full product warranty and manufacturer support.
What Sizes Are Available for Countyline Tillers?
Countyline offers a range of tiller sizes from compact 3-foot models up to hefty 8-foot tillers to provide options suitable for small and large acreage.
Here is an overview of the most common Countyline tiller sizes:
- 3-foot tiller: Ideal for small gardens up to about 1 acre. Approx. 150 lbs.
- 4-foot tiller: Versatile mid-size tiller good for gardens up to 2 acres. Approx. 175 lbs.
- 5-foot tiller: A popular larger tiller good for gardens and fields around 5 acres. Approx. 200 lbs.
- 6-foot tiller: A sturdy, heavy-duty tiller for fields and plots around 10 acres. Approx. 300 lbs.
- 8-foot tiller: One of the largest models able to till plots up to 15 acres. Approx. 475 lbs.
The wider tillers like the 6-foot and 8-foot models are more specialized and require at least a 35 HP tractor to operate. Make sure to match the tiller size to your tractor’s power capacity. An oversized tiller can overload the tractor engine.
Pay attention to both tilling width and overall machine weight when selecting a Countyline tiller size. And consider potential storage requirements as the larger tillers take up more space.
How Does a Countyline Tiller Compare to Other Brands?
Countyline tillers are very competitively priced with similar models from other brands like King Kutter, Husqvarna, and Craftsman. You get comparable features and performance at a more budget-friendly price point.
Here’s a quick rundown of how Countyline stacks up to other major tiller brands:
- Durability: Countyline tillers feature thick metal construction and reinforced components for long-lasting durability. On par with King Kutter or Husqvarna.
- Power: Strong PTO-driven transmission provides efficient power transfer. Comparable torque and tilling force as Craftsman and Husqvarna.
- Features: Includes all expected features like adjustable tilling depth and width, reversible tines, and tractor mounting. Lacks more sophisticated options of higher-end brands.
- Ease of Use: Very straightforward operation matched to a tractor’s 3-point hitch and PTO. Compares favorably to other brands for usability.
- Price: Significantly more affordable than Husqvarna, BCS, or Honda tillers. Lower pricing than Craftsman or King Kutter as well.
For shoppers looking for a basic but rugged tiller at a wallet-friendly price, Countyline is a great choice compared to other major brands on the market. You still get quality construction and reliable performance.
What is the Depth Capacity of a Countyline Tiller?
A major factor to consider with any tiller purchase is its tilling depth capabilities. Countyline tillers can typically cultivate down to 6-8 inches in depth. This is suitable for most garden soil preparation and agricultural tilling needs.
The exact maximum depth may vary slightly across different Countyline models based on factors like:
- Number of Tines: More tines provide greater soil penetration. Larger tillers generally have more tines.
- Tine Size: Larger diameter tines till deeper than thinner tines.
- PTO Power: More powerful PTOs provide greater tine rotation torque for increased depth.
- Weight: Heavier machines have more downward force to drive tines deeper.
For occasional deep tilling, you can add weights to the tiller frame to get another 1-2 inches of depth. The ability to adjust the tine attack angle also impacts how aggressively they dig into the earth.
Overall Countyline tillers offer sufficient tilling depth for most tasks. And their rugged build quality allows them to reliably work soil at their maximum depth season after season.
How Do You Maintain a Countyline Tiller?
Proper maintenance is key to getting the longest life and best performance out of any major piece of equipment, including your Countyline tiller. Here are some tips for effective Countyline tiller maintenance:
- Check fluid levels: Regularly inspect the oil level in the transmission and lubricate tine shafts with grease as directed in the manual. Top up as needed.
- Change fluids/filters: Replace oil, lubricants, and filters at recommended intervals. This keeps working fluids clean.
- Inspect tines: Check for any loose, worn, or bent tines. Replace damaged tines in sets to maintain balance.
- Clean debris: Keep tines and transmission housing clear of mud, rocks, roots, and other debris which can build up.
- Touch up paint: Spot paint any scratches or rusty spots to prevent full rust and corrosion.
- Check bolts/pins: Make sure all mounting hardware and connections stay properly tightened. Replace any lost or damaged hardware.
- Refer to manual: Follow all maintenance directions and schedules provided in the owner’s manual for your model.
Properly caring for your Countyline tiller will ensure it delivers years of reliable service. Don’t neglect recommended maintenance and you’ll get the longest functional lifespan out of this hardworking implement.
What are the Reviews for Countyline Tillers?
In general, Countyline tillers get very positive reviews from owners for their quality construction and tilling effectiveness. The most common positives cited include:
- Durable/rugged build: Thick steel components stand up to frequent use without damage or flexing.
- Powerful tilling action: The tines churn and cultivate soil thoroughly even in compacted earth.
- Affordable price: Provides great value for a heavy-duty tiller at a budget-friendly price point.
- Tractor integration: Mounts to tractors securely and works seamlessly powered through the PTO shaft.
- Good customer service: Tractor Supply provides responsive support for any issues or parts needs.
Negative feedback on Countyline tillers is relatively minimal but does mention:
- Noisy operation: Loud gearbox and tine noise. Common issue with most PTO-driven implements.
- Tine damage: Tines may bend or break if hitting very rocky soil or solid obstructions.
Overall most reviewers say Countyline tillers provide great rugged construction and tilling power at an appealing price making them a winner for the money. They make an excellent basic tiller option for the casual hobby farmer or large home garden.
Can a Countyline Tiller be Used in Rocky Soil?
Countyline tillers are built sturdy enough to handle tilling most soil conditions including clay soils with some rock content. However, you need to take care when operating in very thick, rocky ground.
The rotating tines of a Countyline tiller can easily till dirt with small rocks up to around 2 inches in diameter dispersed throughout. Much larger individual rocks or a high overall rock concentration in the soil increases the chances of catching and damaging the tines.
If attempting to till densely rocky soil it is best to:
- Take shallow passes 3-4 inches deep to avoid burying and jamming tines on large subsurface rocks.
- Slow your tractor PTO RPMs which reduces the impact speed of the tines.
- Add weights to the tiller to allow better downward slicing action around stones.
- Periodically stop and back up the tiller to dislodge any jammed debris around the tines.
While not ideal for breaking completely new ground in very rocky soils, Countyline tillers can effectively work and cultivate dirt with small to moderate rock content without issue. Just take care not to overload the tines when tilling unknown soils for the first time.
How Do You Adjust the Tines on a Countyline Tiller?
Countyline tillers provide a couple different ways to adjust the tines in order to control tilling depth and overall aggressiveness. Here are the two key methods for adjusting Countyline tiller tines:
Angle Adjustment:
- Loosen the bolts on the adjustable tension brackets that connect to the tine shaft.
- Rotate the brackets up or down to modify the attack angle of the tines.
- Tighten bolts once the desired aggressiveness is achieved.
Depth Adjustment:
- Loosen the locks on the adjustable skid shoes located on outer sides of tiller housing.
- Raise or lower the skid height as needed to control how deep tines will reach.
- Tighten the locks back up at the chosen depth setting.
Start with shallow and less aggressive tine settings when tilling new ground for the first time. You can always increase depth and aggressiveness on subsequent passes. Checking the tractor PTO RPMs can also help meter tilling intensity.
What is the Price Range for Countyline Tillers?
Countyline tillers are very competitively priced, which is a major part of their appeal. Here is an overview of typical price ranges:
- 3-foot models: Approximately $1,200 – $1,500
- 4-foot models: Approximately $1,400 – $1,800
- 5-foot models: Approximately $1,600 – $2,000
- 6-foot models: Approximately $1,900 – $2,400
- 8-foot models: Approximately $2,500 – $3,000
Keep in mind prices may fluctuate based on seasonal discounts, sales tax in your location, and shipping fees if not picking up locally. Optional attachments and accessories add to the total price as well.
Overall Countyline provides very affordable pricing on their tillers compared to other major brands. And you still get a rugged and reliable machine capable of years of regular tilling duties. For budget-focused shoppers, few other tillers can match the prices and value of Countyline.
What is the Warranty on a Countyline Tiller?
One big plus that comes with buying from a major retailer like Tractor Supply is that Countyline tillers come with a strong warranty:
- 3 years – Covers driveline and gearbox against manufacturer defects
- 1 year – Covers all other components on the tiller
This protects your purchase against early part failures, manufacture errors, or premature wear and tear of moving components like the transmission.
Make sure to review the full warranty details to understand what is covered including maintenance requirements. And follow all break-in instructions when first operating your new tiller to avoid potential warranty issues.
Having a solid multi-year warranty provides great peace of mind and support on major investments like a Countyline tiller. Make sure to register your product with Tractor Supply as soon as possible after purchase to activate the full warranty coverage.
How Effective is a Countyline Tiller for Large Gardens?
With their sturdy build and ample tilling width capacities, Countyline tillers are an excellent choice for tilling large garden plots up to 1 acre or more in size.
Factors that make Countyline tillers ideal for big gardens include:
- Enough tilling width options to cover beds up to 5 feet or more in a single pass.
- Adjustable tilling depth up to 8 inches to thoroughly work soil.
- Powerful PTO transmission can churn through heavy garden soils with ease.
- Tractor-mounted design provides continuous power and traction.
- Thick durable construction stands up to heavy usage without flexing or bending.
Home gardeners with oversized plots around 1/4 to 1 acre or commercial market farmers with large planting beds can certainly benefit from a Countyline tiller matched to an appropriately sized tractor. Even the most compact Countyline models have capacity to regularly cultivate garden areas of at least 1/4 acre in size.
What Horsepower is Required for a Countyline Tiller?
An important factor in selecting the right Countyline tiller is matching it to a tractor with sufficient horsepower. Here are the general HP requirements:
- 3-foot tiller – Minimum 15 PTO HP
- 4-foot tiller – Minimum 20 PTO HP
- 5-foot tiller – Minimum 25 PTO HP
- 6-foot tiller – Minimum 35 PTO HP
- 8-foot tiller – Minimum 40 PTO HP
These recommendations help ensure your tractor engine and drivetrain can provide adequate power to operate the tiller, even when digging into dense or compacted ground.
Insufficient tractor power will lead to sluggish tine rotation, frequent stalling, and excessive strain on the engine and transmission. Overloading your tractor’s capabilities will cause premature wear and failure over time.
Always defer to the horsepower rating given for your specific Countyline tiller model if different from these general guidelines. And know that more power is better when selecting a size close to the minimum rating.
How Do You Troubleshoot a Countyline Tiller That Won’t Start?
If your Countyline tiller will not start or power on, here are some steps to troubleshoot the issue:
- Check tractor PTO – Ensure PTO shaft is engaged and delivering power to the tiller input.
- Inspect driveline – Make sure the driveline is securely connected at both ends and not damaged.
- Check for binding – Rotate tines by hand to feel for any jammed material blocking movement.
- Inspect belts – For belt-drive models, verify belts are present and in good condition.
- Check oil level – Low transmission oil can prevent proper operation. Top up if needed.
- Examine wires – For electric start models, inspect all wiring for damage and secure connections.
- Replace battery – A weak or dead battery may be preventing electric start models from turning over.
- Review manual – Check for any model-specific troubleshooting steps.
- Call support – If issue persists, contact Tractor Supply support for additional diagnostics.
With some thorough inspection and testing, you can often resolve minor issues getting a Countyline tiller running. But for more complex failures, don’t hesitate to bring it to a technician for repair under your warranty protection.
What Materials Are Countyline Tillers Made from?
Countyline focuses on using thick, rugged steel in the construction of their tillers. Here are the key material components:
- Frame – Heavy-gauge steel forms the main tiller chassis providing durability and strength.
- Tines – Heat-treated solid steel tines resist bending or breaking while cultivating soil.
- Gearbox – Hardened steel gears inside the transmission housing provide reliable power transfer.
- Skid shoes – Steel skid plates under tiller glide across the ground during operation.
- Driveshaft – Hardened steel construction of PTO driven shaft.
- Bolts – Zinc plated steel used for most fasteners to resist rust and corrosion.
- Side shields – Sheet metal shields protect operator and tractor from flying debris.
The use of thick steel components is a major selling point of Countyline tillers compared to some competitors using thinner materials or more plastic parts. This contributes greatly to their durability.
Proper care and maintenance is still crucial to maximize the working lifespan of any metal components exposed to the elements. But Countyline’s all-steel construction provides a rock-solid foundation to handle years of tough tilling work.
Are Countyline Tillers Suitable for Compact Tractors?
The smaller Countyline tiller models are well-matched to the horsepower and three-point hitch capabilities of most compact utility tractors.
Specifically, Countyline’s 3-foot and 4-foot tillers pair very effectively with popular compact tractors like:
- John Deere 1000 Series (15-25 HP range)
- Kubota BX Series (15-25 HP range)
- New Holland Workmaster (25-40 HP range)
- Massey Ferguson GC Series (25-40 HP range)
These sub-40 HP tractor models provide sufficient power to operate the smaller Countyline tillers while still maintaining good maneuverability thanks to their compact size.
Make sure to compare the Countyline tiller PTO HP requirements against your tractor’s rated PTO power. Some very small economy tractor models may still be underpowered for even a 3-foot tiller. But in general, compact tractors represent an excellent power match for getting the most versatility and usability from a small Countyline tiller.
How Durable Are Countyline Tillers?
The all-steel construction of Countyline tillers makes them extremely durable for the price. Owners report getting many years of reliable service from these hardworking tillers.
Key signs of the durability you can expect include:
- Thick tines – Won’t bend or deform like thinner tines under load.
- Robust gearbox – Sturdy transmission stands up to heavy torque and shock loads.
- Reinforced chassis – Prevents flexing that leads to cracks or mechanical issues.
- Weather-resistant – Painted steel components resist corrosion and rust.
- Replaceable tines – Individual tines can be replaced if damaged without needing to replace entire tine assembly.
- Load damping – Shock absorbing rubber cushions reduce tine shaft fatigue and wear.
- Bearing support – Sealed ball bearings throughout instead of less durable bushings.
While no machine lasts forever, especially under constant heavy usage, Countyline tillers are designed for longevity and the ability to keep working hard season after season. Proper maintenance and care is rewarded with years of productivity.
What Attachments Are Available for Countyline Tillers?
To expand the functionality beyond just tilling, Countyline offers a few different attachments and accessories:
Furrowing Attachment
- Creates trenches for seeding rows or laying irrigation lines
Cultivator Attachment
- Loosens and stirs soil around plants later in growing season
Disc Harrow Attachment
- Levels, smoothes, and breaks down furrows after tilling pass
Bed Shaper Attachment
- For building raised garden beds and soil mounds
Tiller Window Kit
- Clear windows allow seeing tines engaging soil during operation
Additional Weights
- Provides extra downward force for deeper tilling
Check for compatible attachments that are available for your specific Countyline tiller model. Even their basic tillers can transform into multi-purpose implements with the right attachments for your needs. This expands the functionality and cost-effectiveness of the machine.
How Do You Replace Parts on a Countyline Tiller?
Over time parts like tines may require replacement on a Countyline tiller either due to damage or standard wear. Here are some tips for replacing common parts:
Tines:
- Remove lock bolt securing tine to the shaft. Slide tine off and replace.
- Always replace in pairs to maintain even tilling.
Shear Pins:
- Remove damaged pin by tapping out the roll pin holding it in place.
- Install new shear pin and secure with new roll pin.
Grease Fittings:
- Unscrew old fitting and apply thread seal tape to replacement fitting.
- Screw in new zerk grease fitting by hand until snug.
Skid Shoes:
- Remove lock bolt and lift skid shoe off mounting plate. Transfer over spacer bushings.
- Bolt new skid shoe back onto mounting plate.
Refer to the owners manual for full steps on removing and installing replacement parts. Never hammer out pins, bolts, or hardware unless explicitly directed. Overall Countyline tillers utilize standard hardware and components making repairs straightforward.
In Conclusion
From their rugged steel construction to proven tilling performance, it’s easy to see why Countyline tillers continue to be a popular choice among home gardeners and small scale farmers looking for an affordable yet durable tilling implement. If matched properly to both your soil conditions and tractor size, a Countyline tiller provides tremendous value for the investment.
Just be sure to follow the guidance in this buying guide regarding sizing, features, maintenance, and accessories. This will help select the right Countyline tiller tailored to your specific needs. With the information in this guide you can shop for your Countyline tiller with confidence knowing how these hardworking machines compare and what makes them a uniquely sensible option for preparing garden and field soil year after year.