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HONDA E N G I N E S Manual Owner’s GXH50...
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The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the engine and should remain with the engine if resold.
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INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your selection of a Honda engine. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one We want to help you get the best results from your new engine and to operate it safely. This manual contains the information on how to do that; please read it carefully.
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INTRODUCTION A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY Your safety and the safety of others are very important. And using this engine safely an important responsibility. To help you make informed decisions operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.
ENGINE SAFETY IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION CONTROLS & FEATURES COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS CONTROLS Fuel Valve Lever Ignition Switch Choke Lever Throttle Lever Recoil Starter Grip FEATURES Oil Alert !System (applicable engine types) BEFORE OPERATION IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO? Check the General Condition of the Engine Check the Engine Check the Equipment Powered by This Engine...
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CONTENTS SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE (continued) AIR FILTER INSPECTION AIR FILTER CLEANING SPARK PLUG SERVICE SPARK ARRESTER SERVICE HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS STORING YOUR ENGINE Storage Preparation Storage Precautions Removal From Storage TRANSPORTING TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE WILL NOT START ENGINE LACKS POWER TECHNICAL &...
ENGINE SAFETY IMPORTANT SIAFETY INFORMATION Most accidents with engines can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the engine. Some of the most common hazards are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and others. Owner Responsibilities Honda engilnes are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions.
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ENGINE SAFETY Carbon Monoxide Hazard Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Avoid inhalation of ex- haust gas. Never run the engine in a closed garage or confined area. Other Equipment Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any additional safety precautions that should be observed in conjunction with engine startup, shutdown, or operation, or protective apparel that may be needed to operate the equipment.
CONTROLS & FEATURES COMPONENT CONTROL LOCATIONS & SPAR1 K PLUG \ &PRO LEVER OIL FILLER CAP DIPSTICK RECOIL STARTER STARTER GRIP OIL DRAIN PLUG FUEL FILLER C A P , jUELTANK ‘IGNITION SWITCH...
CONTROLS & FEATURES CONTROLS Valve Lever Fuel The fuel valve opens and closes the passage between the fuel tank and the carburetor. The fuel valve lever must be in the ON position for the engine to run. When the engine is not in use or being transported, leave the fuel valve lever in the OFF position to prevent carburetor flooding and to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage.
CONTROLS & FEATURES Switch Ignition The ignition switch enables and disables the ignition system. The ignition switch must be in the ON position for the engine to run. Turning the ignlition switch to the OFF position stops the engine. IGNITION SWITCH...
CONTROLS & FEATURES Choke Lever The choke lever opens and closes the choke valve in the carburetor. The CLOSED position enriches the fuel mixture for starting a cold engine. The OPEN position provides the correct fuel mixture for operation after starting, and for restarting a warm engine.
CONTROLS & FEATURES Throttle Lever The throttle lever controls engine speed. shown Moving the thrsttie lever in the directions makes the engine run faster or slower. THROITLE LEVER...
FEATURES Oil Alert@ System (applicable engine types) The Oil Alert@ system is designed to prevent engine damage caused by an insufficient amount of oil in the crankcase. Before the can fall below safe limit, the Oil Alert@ system will automatically stop the engine (the ignition switch will remain in the ON position).
BEFORE OPERATION IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO? For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your equipment, it is very important to take a few moments before you operate the engine to check its condition. Be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your servicing dealer correct it, before you operate the engine.
Check the En!gine Check the engine oil level (see page 26), Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage. The Oil Alert system (applicable engine types) engine befcre the oil level falls below safe limits. However, to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown, always check the engine oil level before startup.
OPERATION SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the engine for the first time, please review the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONon page 5 and the chapter titled BEFORE OPERA- TION. Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.
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OPERATION 2. To start a cold engine, move the choke lever to the CLOSED position. To restart a warm engine, leave the choke lever in the OPEN position. CHOKE LEVER 3. Turn the ignition switch to the position. IGNITION SWITCH...
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OPERATION 4. Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently. (EQUIPMENT SIDE) STARTER GRIP 5. If the choke lever was moved to the CLOSED position to start the engine, gradually move it to the OPEN position as the engine warms up. CHOKE LEVER...
STOPPING THE ENGINE To stop the engine in an emergency, simply turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Under normal conditions, use the following procedure. 1. Move the throttle lever 2. Turn the igni,tion switch to the OFF positisn. IGNITIION SWITCH to the SLOW position.
OPERATION 3. Move the fuel valve lever to the OFF position. FUEL LEVER SETTING ENGINE SPEED Position the throttle lever for the desired engine speed. For engine speed recommendations, refer to the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine. THROlTLE LEVER...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free opera- tion. It will also help reduce air pollution, Improperly maintaining this engine, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE MAINTENANCE SAFETY Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing mainte- nance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task. Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE REFUELING Fuel tank capacity 0.32 US gal (1.2 With the engine stopped, remove the fuel tank cap and check the fuel level. Refill the tank if the fuel level is low. Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area before starting the engine. been running, allow it to cool. Refuel carefully to avoid spilling fuel. Do not fill above the fuel level mark. After refueling, tighten the fuel tank cap securely. Never refuel the engine inside a building where gasoline fumes may reach flames or sparks.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and in a level position. 1. Remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean. 2. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
O I L ENGINE CHANGE Drain the used oil while the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely. 1. Place a suitable container below the engine to catch the used oil, then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and the drain plug. 2.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE 3. With the engine in a level position, fill to the outer edge of the oil filler hole with the recommended oil (see page 29). Engine oil capacity: 0.26 US qt (0.25 NOTICE Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage. The Oil Alert system (applicable engine types) will automatically stop the engine before the oil level falls below the safe limit.
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS Oil is a major factor affecting performance and service life. Use 4-stroke automotive detergent oil. SAE 1 OW-30 is recommended for general use. Other viscosities shown in the chart may be used when the average temperature in your area is within the recommended range.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE AIR FILTER INSPECTION Press the latch tabs on the top of the air cleaner cover, and remove the cover. Check the filter to be sure it is clean and in good condition. If the filter is dirty, clean it as described on page 31. Replace the filter if it is damaged.
AIR FILTER CLEANING A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. If you operate the engine in very dusty areas, clean the air filter more than specified in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE. 1. Clean the air filter in warm soapy water, rinse, and allow to dry thoroughly. Or clean in nonflammable solvent and allow to dry.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE SPARK PLUG SERVICE Recommended spark plug: CR5HSB (NGK) NOTICE An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage. Disconnect the spark plug cap, and remove any dirt from around the spark plug area. 2. Remove the spark plug with a 5/8-inch spark plug wrench. 3.
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6. After the spark plug seats, tighten with a 5/8-inch spark plug wrench to compress the washer. If reinstalling the used spark plug, tighten 1/8-1/4 turn after the spark plug seats. If installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug seats. piEiq A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE SPARK ARRESTER SERVICE (optional equipment) The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep i't functioning as designed. If the engine has been running, the muffler will be very hot. Allow the muffler to cool before servicing the spark arrester. 1.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE deposits from 3. Use a brush to remove carbon the spark arrester screen. Be careful to avoid damaging the screen. breaks The spark arrester must be free sf and holes. Replace the spark arrester if it is damaged. 4.
HELPFULTIPS & SUGGESTIONS STORING YOUR ENGINE Storage Preparation Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your engine troublefree and looking good. The following steps will help to keep rust and corrosion from impairing your engine’s function and appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when you use it again.
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The Distributor’s Limited Warranty does not cover fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from neglected storage preparation. You can extend fuel storage life by adding a fuel stabilizer that is formulated for that purpose, or you can avoid fuel deterioration problems by draining the fuel tank and carburetor.
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HELPFULTIPS & SUGGESTIONS DRAINING THE FUEL TANK AND CARBURETOR 1. Move the fuel valve lever to the ON position. 2. Carburetor equipped with a drain hose and screw: Loosen the carburetor drain screw, and drain the carburetor into an approved gasoline container. After draining is completed, tighten the carburetor drain screw.
Engine Oil Change the engine oil (see page 27). Engine Cylinder 1. Remove the spark plug (see tablespoon (5-1 0 cc) of 2. Pour Pull the starter rope several times to distribute 4. Reinstall the spark plug. 5. Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt aligns with the notch on the fan cover.
HELPFULTIPS & SUGGESTIONS Storage Precautions If your engine will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank and carburetor, it is important to reduce the hazard of gasoline vapor ignition. Select a well- ventilated storage area away from any appliance that operates with a flame, such as a furnace, water heater, or clothes dryer.
HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS TRANSPORTllNG If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before loading the engine-powered equipment the transport vehicle. A hot engine and exhaust system can burn you and can ignite some materials. Keep the engine level when transporting to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage.
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE WILL NOT START Check control positions. Check fuel. Remove and inspect spark plug. Take engine to an authorized Honda servicing dealer, or refer to shop manual. ENGINE LACKS POWER Check air filter 2. Check fuel. 3.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION TECHNICAL INFORMATION Serial Number Location ENGINE Record the engine serial number in the space below. You will need this serial number when ordering parts, and when making technical or warranty inquiries (see page 52). Engine serial number: ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER...
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Carburetor Modification for High Altitude Operation At high altitude, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be too rich. Performance will decrease, and fuel consumption will increase. A very rich mixture will also foul the spark plug and cause hard starting. High altitude performance can be improved by specific modifications to the carburetor.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Emission Control System Information Source of Emissions The combustion process produces carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Control of hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen is very impor- tant because, under certain conditions, they react to form photochemical smog when subjected to sunlight.
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TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Problems That May Affect Emissions If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have your engine inspected and repaired by your servicing dealer. Hard starting or stalling after starting. Rough idle. Misfiring or backfiring under load. Afterburning (backfiring).
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Air Index An Air Index Information hang tag/label was applied to this engine in accordance with the requirements of the California Air Resources Board. The bar graph is intended to provide you, our customer, the ability to compare the emissions performance of available engines.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Wiring Diagram Without Oil Alert ENGINE STOP SWITCH With Oil Alert LEVEL SWITCH ALERT UNIT SPARK PLUG Blue Light blue Green Light green Pink While Gray SPARK PLUG...
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION CONSUMER INFORMATION Honda Publications These publications will give you additional information for maintaining and repairing your engine. You may order them from your Honda engine dealer. Shop Manual This manual covers complete maintenance and overhaul procedures. It is intended to be used by a skilled technician.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Warranty Service information Servicing dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer any question you may have. If you encounter a problem that your dealer does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership’s management.
QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION Fuel Capacity TY Pe Engine Oil Capacity Type Spark Plug Carburetor 2,500 Idle speed Before each use First 10 Maintenance hours Subsequent Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating 86 or higher (page 25) 0.32 US gal (1.2 1) SAE IOW-30, API SJ, for general use (page 29) 0.26 US qt (0.25...