Earthquake Pioneer 99cc
#3 in Rear tineFull review
For gardeners who break new ground and also want a fine seed bed, and who value a light, easy to handle machine over raw engine size.
Amazon $1,099.99$1,099.99
3.5/5
For a budget buyer who wants dual rotation and reverse, including in California, and can live with shallower tilling and a short warranty.
- 18 inTilling width
- 6.5 inTilling depth
- 209 cc gasPower
- 2 yearsWarranty
Check price at Amazon$799
Price checked October 31, 2026. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Pros
- True dual rotation with a reverse gear for under $800
- An 18 in path covers ground faster than 16 to 17 in machines
- CARB approved, so it can be sold and used in California
Cons
- Tills only 6.5 in deep, shallow for a rear tine machine
- At 205 lb it is heavy to turn and load
- Only a 2 year warranty
How it scores
The rating comes from 5 measured or published factors, each scored 0-100 against fixed reference points for its type. How we rank explains each one.
Specifications
| Model number | YT4565 |
|---|---|
| Tilling | |
| Type | Rear tine |
| Tilling width | 18 in |
| Tilling depth | 6.5 in |
| Tine rotation | Forward or counter-rotating |
| Reverse | Yes |
| Engine or motor | |
| Power | Gas |
| Engine | YARDMAX |
| Displacement | 209 cc |
| Electric start | No |
| CARB compliant | Yes |
| Build | |
| Weight | 205 lb |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Released | 2017-03-17 |
Alternatives in this type
Earthquake Pioneer 127cc
#4 in Rear tineFull review
For a large garden with tough soil where a light, balanced dual direction tiller with a name brand engine is worth paying for.
Amazon $1,289.95 Earthquake $1,199.99$1,199.99
Poulan Pro PPDRT18 PRO
#6 in Rear tineFull review
For a large garden that needs dual direction tilling and a gear drive, if it is cheaper than the matching NOVUS model on the day.
Amazon $1,049.99$1,049.99
Compare
Compare the YARDMAX YT4565 with any other tiller →
More from YARDMAX: every YARDMAX product ranked.