Personal choice is a front tine. I can get 10 in deep in the granite with a 3 1/2 HP motor. Tosses up those 3 to 4 in bones that the frost grew for me. I happen to get mine used for $25. It's a Merry Tiller made in 1949, Replaced seals in 1975, Plus 2 motors, 1 replacement was my fault, I forgot to tighten the mounting bolts and cracked the oil sump, I can do a 16, 24 or 36 in cut. BUT. If I had it to do over I would rent or hire someone. No messing around getting it started in the spring, storage space. etc. I can get some one for $25 per, or rent 4 hours for $35. The cost of my machine equiv new, Last time I checked was about $1500. Letting someone else do it is a lot easier on my back Just a thought. LB Subject: [CH] Slightly OT - Tillers Hello fellow chili heads The time has come, I think for me to purchase a new tiller. The one that I has has spent more time being fixed than being used the past 2 years. Would you recommend a fron or rear tine and how much HP for a good sized woman. My garden is not huge, but I want enough power that I don't regret getting the size I choose. Any suggestions? Angel