Storage Preparation - Honda HRU216M1 Owner's Manual & Service Record Booklet

7. TRANSPORTING/STORAGE - continued

STORAGE PREPARATION

Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your lawn mower trouble-
free and looking good. The following steps will help to keep rust and corrosion
from impairing your lawn mowers function and appearance and will make the
engine easier to start when you use the lawn mower again.
Cleaning
1. Wash the lawn mower, including the underside of the cutter housing.
Engine
Wash the engine by hand and be careful to prevent water from entering
the air cleaner and/or muffler.
NOTICE
 Using the garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water
into the air cleaner. Water in the air cleaner will soak the filters and
can enter the carburetor or engine, causing damage.
 Water on a hot engine can cause damage. If the engine has been
running, allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before washing.
Cutter Housing
If using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment to clean the cutter
housing, be careful to avoid getting water into controls and cables or
anywhere near the engine air cleaner or muffler opening.
Before washing the underside of the cutter housing, be sure the fuel valve
is in the OFF position. Disconnect the spark plug cap. Rest the mower on
its right side, so the carburetor side is up. This will help to prevent fuel
leakage and hard starting due to carburetor flooding. Wear heavy gloves
to protect your hands from the blades.
2. After washing the lawn mower, wipe dry all accessible surfaces.
3. With the mower in an upright position, start the engine outdoors and let
it run until it reaches normal operating temperature to evaporate any
water remaining on the engine.
4. Stop the engine and allow it to cool.
5. After the lawn mower is clean and dry, touch up any damaged paint and
coat other areas that may rust with a light film of oil. Lubricate the
control cable cores with a silicone spray lubricant.
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