Investigate renting a tiller, rear tine preferable and see how much it would cost. While talking to the rental folks, tell them what you want to do with it and see what they say. If the cost is "doable" all tillers I've seen have a depth adjustment (stake) which you would then use at shallow and then increasing depths. You will have to do a lot of raking and picking up of roots, etc.

Also, a key intput in this equation is how big is the lawn? A small city lot, or acres? Obvioiusly that would be a key factor in the cost.

At the risk of being shot, have you considered using a chemical like "weed and feed" fertilize? Follow the instructions and that will get rid of a lot of the broad leaf varieties. You might have to rent a spreader. Once the weeds are under control, the fertilize portion will stimulate the remaining grass to assert itself. Assuming that you have some remaining grass.

Good luck,

Ev

Tilling your lawn might not be necessary. Ev's suggestion of a "weed and feed" might be all you need. You might want to buy a spreader so you could make repeated applications yourself. The size of your lawn could determine your best course of action. And whether it is flat or sloped or rolling.

Or you might want to make inquiries with a local lawn service. Many of them will take over the maintenance of your lawn for a fee. Make sure they have a good rating with the Better Business Bureau.

ZM