FAQ

For areas where four-wheel tractors are unsuited, BCS two-wheel tractors are ideal. Whether it's tilling in small gardens or in-between rows of large-scale crops, mowing along pond banks or in orchards, or snow removal on walkways and roofs, BCS tractors are the solution for anyone looking to save time, save money and receive optimal performance in their power equipment.

Don't let it sit! Why buy a separate engine for every piece of seasonal outdoor power equipment?

With BCS, you can power a range of attachments according to your needs, made possible by an easy-to-use swiveling handlebar function to accommodate both front-mount and rear-mount attachments.

BCS has a different standard than many power equipment manufacturers today. Instead of equipment that emphasizes cheap and easy, BCS punctuates quality, with all-gear driven tractors that are built to last for decades, not just years. BCS's performance, durability and versatility are second to none.

BCS offers a full range of tractor models to assist with the various tasks that land owners encounter throughout the year. The first step in determining what’s right for you is to determine which tasks you’d like to perform on your property. Keep in mind that you’re not only buying a BCS tractor for now, but also for the future, as the tractor you purchase will continue operating for decades with proper maintenance.

Once you identify which jobs you'd like to tackle with your BCS today, and in the future, click over to our custom configurator to Build Your BCS.  Once you've selected every attachment you'll need, the configurator will narrow down the list of tractor models to only those that are compatible.  Required and recommended accessories will also be listed.  

Current BCS models start with model 620 and go up to model 853. But tractors don't necessarily get bigger and better with each successive model number. For example, models 749, 750, 779, 852 & 853 all have the same 13 horsepower Honda GX390 engine.  But the range of attachments each tractor is best suited for varies significantly due to other important tractor features.  

There will always be exceptions to the compatibility of any tractor and attachment combination based on the specific needs of the operator and the task at hand, so the Build Your BCS configurator is setup as more of a helpful guide than a strict set of rules to follow. And we're always here to answer any questions you have along the way!  
 

BCS tractors are extremely durable, and it's reflected in our warranty policy. Please note that these warranty guidelines apply ONLY to the original purchaser and are non-transferrable.

For personal (non-commercial) owners:

• The BCS Lifetime Warranty applies to all transmission components located inside the transmission housing, but excludes the clutch assembly.
• All remaining parts on BCS tractors and attachments are covered for three (3) years from the date of purchase. The PowerSafe clutch is covered for five (5) years from the date of purchase.

For professional (commercial) use:

• A five year warranty applies to all transmission components located inside the transmission housing, but excludes the clutch assembly.
• All remaining parts on BCS tractors and attachments are covered for one (1) year from the date of purchase.

Other notes:

• All engines (Honda, Subaru, Kohler, Vanguard) are covered by a separate warranty issued by the engine manufacturer. Please refer to the engine warranty statement for details.
• All replacement parts have a warranty of 90 days from the date of purchase.

Click HERE to view all available attachments through BCS America. Please keep in mind that BCS tractors can power a range of additional attachments not included on this list that are sold through companies other than BCS America.

All-gear drive means premium performance and durability. There are no belts or chains to break—the transmissions are precision-made with heat-treated steel gears and shafts supported by ball bearings running in oil bath. All BCS tractors and most attachments have this feature, and even the smallest model (710) is designed with commercial quality.

In most outdoor walk-behind equipment sold in North America, power is transferred to the transmission by a belt. At its best, a belt loses 15% of the engine’s power in the transfer—and is typically much higher. By contrast, BCS tractors uses a spring-loaded, double-cone clutch or a hydraulic “wet” clutch in PowerSafe models to transfer power to the all-gear transmission, which loses less than 3% of the engine’s power.

It should be noted that the Chipper/Shredder and Flail Mower attachments have belts for shock absorption.

The power take-off shaft (PTO) on BCS tractors is the same concept as four-wheel tractors — the PTO allows for attaching and removing various implements using a rotating shaft.  The PTO powers most BCS implements, with the exception of the non-powered attachments like the Snow Blade and Dozer Blade and drag implements like as the Root Digger and Ridger.  

BCS tractors have a three-dog splined shaft that fits easily onto all current attachments. BCS tractors and attachments built before 1995 had a splined shaft.  PTO adapters are available that will allow older tractors to power current attachments, and vice versa.

The BCS Quick Hitch is the easiest way to exchange attachments on your BCS tractor.  Installed at the PTO connection point, the Quick Hitch allows owners to change implements with the flip of a red lever.  Swap attachments quickly and without the need for tools.

While the Quick Hitch is installed at the PTO connection point and is essentially an extension of the PTO shaft, it can still be used with most non-powered attachments as well.  An Empty Quick Hitch tang can be installed on attachments like the Snow Blade or Dozer Blade, making them just as easy to swap out.  

The Quick Hitch works with any current BCS tractor model.  Currently, customers can receive a FREE Quick Hitch when they purchase at least two of BCS America's attachments at the same time as a tractor (model 722 and up).  

Model 750 (and 660) have a unique Quick Hitch system where the tang (male) is integrated in the tractor design.  To connect any attachment to these models, a 750 Bushing is required on the attachment.  Click here to see a video explaining the unique 750 Quick Hitch system.

Please read our post about the features and benefits of PowerSafe tractors 739, 749, 750 and 779.

Click here to locate your nearest dealer!

BCS has over 700 servicing dealers in the United States and Canada. However, some dealers do not stock BCS equipment and offer service only and order as needed. Any BCS dealer can order tractors, attachments, or parts that they do not have in stock.  The types of dealers are outlined on the Find-a-Dealer page. We recommend calling ahead to see what BCS equipment your closest dealer has in stock prior to visiting their store.

Dealers are categorized as follows:

• Elite Dealers provide customers a year-round display of multiple BCS tractors and attachments, knowledgeable sales staff, and exceptional support before and after the sale.
• Seasonal Stocking Dealers keep a limited display of BCS tractors and attachments in stock, along with providing after-sale service and support. 
• Service Dealers do not generally keep tractors or attachments in stock but are able to perform regular service and warranty repairs.

Need parts and don't have a dealer near you?  Most dealers can drop-ship you items as needed. Contact your local dealer to arrange the transaction.

In some areas of the U.S. and Canada, a BCS servicing dealer is not within a reasonable driving distance. While we’re working toward setting up dealers in every corner of North America, it is best in some cases to simply call your nearest dealer and inquire if drop-shipping is available.

We realize that purchasing BCS products is a significant investment, and seeing the machines in person is very important. Unfortunately, it may be unrealistic for someone to drive far distances in order to see our products. That’s why we’ve done our best to provide as many photos, videos, and testimonials as possible to paint a vivid picture of BCS tractors and attachments.  

Feel free to call our customer service team at 1-800-543-1040 or contact us if you have any questions.  You can also reach us on Instagram or Facebook.

Two-wheel tractors are very popular in Europe. So popular, in fact, that there are countless companies who manufacture quality implements compatible with BCS, which is Europe’s largest two-wheel tractor manufacturer.

BCS America strives to sell the best, most durable attachments available. However, we realize some tasks aren’t covered in our current attachement lineup. In those cases please reach out to us and we can help you identify a possible solution for your task.

The BCS manufacturer in Abbiategrasso, Italy, has a worldwide sales network that stretches far beyond North America. BCS America imports and distributes exclusively in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.  Click HERE to find a complete list of BCS distributors worldwide.

We realize some countries don’t have a BCS distributor, and we’re willing to help those prospects who can’t access BCS products domestically. In those cases, we recommend arranging the transaction and shipment through one of our dealers. 

Contact us if you need help finding a BCS dealer who is willing to arrange international shipments.

All prices for tractors and attachments can be found on each product profile on our website at www.bcsamerica.com.

Please keep in mind that there are seasonal promotions throughout the year. For more information, contact your nearest BCS dealer.

All flail mowers are not created equal!  Click HERE to read our overview on the differences between the BCS & Berta flail mower attachments.

All two-wheel tractors are not the same!  Check out our comparison of BCS and Grillo tractors here.

Your local BCS dealer is likely the best place to start.  Engines on BCS tractors come with their own separate warranty from the engine manufacturer - Honda, Kohler, Vanguard, etc.  

Engine manuals for current BCS tractor models can be found here.

On the Service Information page, the first bulletin listed under ATTACHMENTS is titled "Guide to Tiller Tines."  This bulletin contains very useful information about BCS tiller box tines.

By way of example, count the number of tines on your tiller box. The most popular size is a 20 inch tiller box which has 16 tines on it.

If this is the one you have you have two options, a T20U or a T20R. This stands for tine kit, 20 inch and the U is for universal, which are the long, slender tines that probably came on your tiller box originally. The R means rental tines, these fasten on to the hubs differently and are much thicker and stubbier than the universal tines, and are more expensive. Both dig to about the same depth, the rentals are meant to survive longer in rental applications (which are primarily lawn renovations).

Before your first operation of a BCS machine, make sure to read and follow the instructions in the tractor and engine manuals, which can be found on the Service Information page. We also have a growing library of How-To Videos.

Here are some additional tips:

• Keep your BCS equipment in a dry place, out of the wind when not in use — moisture is the enemy.
• Always disengage the clutch (on non-PowerSafe units) when not in use by clipping the clutch with red operator presence control on the left handlebar.
• Do not leave your tractor sitting in the sun for prolonged periods of time as the sun’s UV radiation will fade and break down the plastic covers of your tractor.
• Do not leave gas in the fuel tank for prolonged periods of time. If you need to leave gas in the tank for more than a month or so, get some fuel stabilizer to keep the gas from going bad. It is worth the trouble.  

Service bulletin 2-7 explains it all. For new models, we recommend Interstate’s SP30R with the size of 5.13’’ L x 7.5’’ W x 7.19’’ H.

Please note that batteries are not included in the price of electric start tractors. BCS America does not sell or ship batteries.

The following is the technique to raise the position of the clutch lever while maintaining proper clutch functioning:

• Loosen the set/jam nut that holds the adjusting tube on the front of the clutch lever bracket. This requires a 13mm wrench.
• Turn the tube clockwise a few revolutions, screwing the tube into the bracket. You can usually do this by hand, but an 11mm wrench is the official tool for the job.
• Next, test the new positioning of the tube by compressing the clutch lever to the point that you feel resistance. With the red lever lowered to the black grip, the object is to measure vertically five inches from the end of the red lever to the end of the clutch lever at the point that you first feel resistance. Screw the tube in or out until this dimension is achieved.
• Once achieved, hold the tube still with the 11mm wrench and tighten the nut with the 13mm wrench snug against the bracket. Do not overtighten.
• Next, test this clutch lever adjustment by starting the tractor. Shift into 1st or 2nd gear, and, with the engine in an idle position, release the clutch. After traveling a few feet, squeeze the clutch and see if you stop completely.
• If you do, you can repeat the procedure above and rotate the adjusting tube clockwise another revolution or two. Test to see if the tractor will still come to a complete stop. If it does not, reverse the procedure and turn the tube counterclockwise until a full stop is achieved. By following this procedure, you will reduce the operator’s “reach” for the clutch lever, while maintaining proper clutch functioning.

As an additional point, the clutch cable will stretch after it has been used for awhile. This will be evident by the fact that the tractor “creeps” even though the clutch is squeezed. In this case, use the procedure above, except that you will be turning the adjusting tube counterclockwise to achieve a complete stop when the lever is compressed.  We also have a How-To Video showing the process of adjusting clutch cables.

This problem used to more common but has been addressed by the BCS factory. It’s encountered only on straight-axle models (non-Professional) models. It is caused by the fit and finish between the worm gear and the brass crown gear that the worm drives inside the transmission. The surface of the worm gear and crown gear have very small peaks and valleys in the metal that fill with oil when the tractor is assembled, making them difficult to spin when you try to push the tractor in neutral.

The fix for this used to be to use the tractor as much as possible to“wear in” the two mating surfaces, but this takes time and often the tires will roll one direction but not in the other. Therefore, the unit must be used with both a front and rear-mount attachment to get both sides of the worm and crown gear sets worn in to each other. A few years ago the BCS factory addressed this problem by putting all crown and worm gears through a burnishing process before they are assembled. This greatly helped the situation and this problem has all but disappeared on newer tractors.

What’s going on here is called “tine walking,” which occurs when the spinning tines overpower the tractor wheels and surge the tractor forward suddenly. When tilling, keep in mind that the tines on the tiller box are spinning 20 times faster than the tractor wheels are turning. If you push down on the handle bars and the tines get the traction, they will become rear wheels and the tractor will lunge forward.

If this happens and you feel that you've lost control, just let go! On standard models, the engine will die and everything will stop.  On PowerSafe models, the wheels and implement will stop immediately, but the engine will continue running.  

​​If you are tilling sod or hard ground for the first time, raise the tines on the tiller box so they take a smaller bite and do not push down on the handle bars as you go along. You will likely need to go over the area more than once the first time you till it if it is extremely hard dirt or sod.

The joint in the PTO linkage has seized up and will not allow the PTO lever to be swung around when a front-mount attachment is put on. Even if you have figured out how to “modify” the linkage to get the handle back in the plastic holder in the mower position, the PTO lock out is still active due to the seized up part that won’t spin around.

There’s an easy solution for this. First, tap out the roll pin, then grab the pivot rod with vice grips (from the plastic knuckle down to the 90-degree intersection where it connects with the transmission) and work it round and round because it’s supposed to spin. Try to use real, actual penetrating oil—not WD-40—for help in loosening it up. If you take out the whole PTO rod, try to clean the end of the rod and the hole where the end of the rod seats and spins and connects to the transmission with steel wool.

Before putting everything back together lubricate the end of the rod and the hole where it seats with a good water proof grease from the agricultural or motorcycle/ATV industry, or never seize thread lube from the auto parts store in order to prevent this problem from happening again. You can also help by simply removing the lever and pivoting it every few months to avoid it seizing up again from lack of use.

Standard clutch BCS tractors (non-PowerSafe) use a dry cup and cone clutch which mate at a 14 degree angle. The male cone has friction material bonded to it and has a rather large spring behind it pushing it into the female cup part of the clutch. The result is a very strong clutch that will tend to stick the cup and cone together if given a chance.

To prevent this clutch from sticking, consider this: the ONLY time the clutch on your BCS should be engaged is when the tractor is in use and power is being transferred to the transmission.

As soon as you stop using your tractor you should always disengage the clutch by pulling the clutch lever into the up or disengaged position and locking it there* by flipping the clip in front of the clutch lever forward. If your clutch gets stuck, often times it can be released by removing the clutch from the tractor and compressing it in a vise (end to end) to force the cup and cone apart. Service bulletin 2-6 explains this in more detail.

*This does not apply to PowerSafe tractors.  PowerSafe models do not have a clip on the clutch lever.

We recommend contacting your local dealer for help with parts identification.

Upon request, we can supply tractor and attachment parts diagrams, but please let us know your three-digit model number and serial number during your inquiry.  If you need help identifying your model or serial number, please refer to the Service Information page for assistance (see General BCS Bulletins).

For engine parts, your local BCS dealer is the best place to start.  Engines on BCS tractors come with their own separate warranty from the engine manufacturer - Honda, Kohler, Vanguard, etc.  Engine manuals for current BCS tractor models can be found here.

Over time the model decals on tractors wear off and the model number is forgotten, especially when a unit has multiple owners. We understand that, but to figure out the model number we need to do some detective work.

Please refer to Service Bulletin 1-6 to aid in identifying your tractor. You’ll notice that it asks for the important features that separate BCS tractors — namely, the number of forward speeds and number of levers on the right handlebar.

If this chart doesn’t help, or if you have more questions, please call us at 1-800-543-1040 for help identifying which tractor you have. Remember, the tractor model number is integral in determining the replacement parts you need!

The serial number of all BCS tractors can be found on the transmission housing and are typically 10 characters including letters and numbers. Attachment serial numbers vary in placement, but are typically found on a grey decal.

For more information, read the "Serial Number Identification" under General BCS Bulletins on the Service Information page.

All operator’s manuals for current and most older BCS models can be found on the Service Information page of www.bcsamerica.com.

If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-543-1040.

Please read our post about this subject for full details.

In most cases the answer is yes, depending on the tractor's features and engine size.  If you're tractor or attachments were built before 1995 and you'd like to use them with current models, you will need one of the two adapters. The adapters are called the Old Tractor to New Attachment Adapter, (p/n 92290832), or the “New Tractor to Old Attachment Adapter” (p/n 92290831).

If you happen to own one of the old 200 series tractors, this does not apply. The old 201, 203, 204 & 205 tractors can only operate 200 series attachments, and no 200 series attachment will fit anything other than a 200 series tractor.

Please contact us to inquire whether a new attachment is suited to be operated with an spline-drive tractor.

Some tractors have specific engine conversion kits available.  If you have an older (pre-1995) tractor that used the splined PTO shaft, you can refer to Service Bulletin 2-1. This bulletin shows various engine options along with the engine adapter kit that you will need to attach the new engine to your BCS tractor.

If you have a post-1995 tractor there is no kit because most of the parts in the kits were already on these tractors. Often times a new engine from another manufacturer can be fitted directly to your tractor using your existing clutch and adapter housing. For further information contact your BCS dealer or call us at 1-800-543-1040.