After 3 short uses, my Yardworks 60-3814-4 Electric tiller/Cultivator began emitting noises consistent with high voltage electrical arc faults, and the odor of burning wiring. The unit would trip breakers in the house electrical panel. Upon disassembly, it was found that the stationary coils in the electric motor had come in contact with the cooling fan blades, wearing through the copper windings and shorting out the motor unit. The major hazard is that the fan blades are connected metallically to the tillers blades through the transmission, which appears to energize the metal parts of the unit. When used in moist soil. this can create possible electrocution hazards if not using a GFI protected outlet.
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