Honda HRC7018 Owner's Manual

Honda power equipment mid-sized commercial mower owner's manual

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Summary of Contents for Honda HRC7018

  • Page 2 This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the lawn mower. It must be available to all operators of the mower and should remain with the mower if resold. The information and specifications in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing.
  • Page 4 Congratulations on your selection of the Honda Commercial Mower. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase. You can enhance the performance of your new mower by taking time to study ttiis manual. In it you’ll learn how to use it safely and efficiently.
  • Page 5 Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided important safety messages in this manual and on the lawn mower. Please read these messages carefully. A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that can hurt you and others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol a and one of three words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS Turn to the beginning of each section for a complete list of subjects. MOWER SAFETY This section explains what you need to know to operate your mower safely. CONTROLS 8, INDICATORS This section shows you where controls are located and tells you what they do and how they work.
  • Page 9: Mower Safety

    MOWER SAFETY This section explains what you need to know to operate your mower safely. Safety Information Important Message to Employers Safety Label Locations...
  • Page 10: Safety Information

    MOWER SAFETY Safety Information Most accidents with walk-behind mowers can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the mower. The most common hazards, according to accident statistics, are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and others.
  • Page 11: Important Message To Employers

    Wear Protective Clothing Wearing protective clothing will reduce your risk of injury. Long pants and eye protection reduce the risk of injuries from thrown objects. Sturdy shoes with aggressive soles will help protect your feet and give you better traction on slopes or uneven ground.
  • Page 12: Mower Safely

    MOWER SAFETY Safety Label Locations These labels warn you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read them carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda Commercial Mower dealer for a replacement. PARfflNG SAFETY I park the mower 0”...
  • Page 13 Object8 hidden in the lawn can be thrown by the mower blade. Thrown objects can cause serious injuly. I Clean lawn of all debris befom mowing. I Do not operate the mower without either the discharge guard or the entire grass catcher In place I Wear eye protection.
  • Page 14 MOWER SAFETY...
  • Page 15 CONTROLS This section shows you where controls are located and tells you what they do and how they work. Locations Controls Indicators & INDICATORS...
  • Page 16: Locations

    CONTROLS 81 INDICATORS Locations This shows where to find the most frequently used controls. HYDROSTATIC OIL FILLER FUEL FILLER VALVE FRONT WHEEL ADJUSTMENT SPACERS...
  • Page 17: Controls 8, Indicators

    CONTROLS 8, INDICATORS DIRECTION CONTROL LEVERS OPERATOR PRESENCE LEVERS NEUTRAL LOCKS MOWER DECK SERlAL NUMBER...
  • Page 18 CONTROLS & INDICATORS BLADE CONTROL FORWARD SPEED CONTROL LEVERS ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER POWER UNIT SERIAL NUMBER REAR WHEEL ADJUSTMENT BAR PUMP BYPASS VALVES...
  • Page 19: Controls

    Controls You will use these controls every time you operate the mower Fuel Valve Ignition -Switch The ignition switch controls the engine ignition system. Turn the key clockwise to the ON position, or turn the key counter clockwise to the OFF position. On electric-start models, the START position engages the starter.
  • Page 20 CONTROLS & INDICATORS Operator Presence Levers The operator presence levers above the hand grips are part of the safety interlock system. When the blade control is ON the forward speed controls are forward of NEUTRAL, you must hold at least one lever down on the hand grips. If you don’t, the engine will shut off.
  • Page 21: Indicators

    Pump Bypass Valves Front-Wheel Adjustment Spacers The front-wheel adjustment spacers allow adjustment of the cutting height in either of two ranges: 1 112 to 3 l/2 inches, and 3 l/2 to 5 l/2 inches. Their use is explained on page 58. Rear-Wheel Adjustment Bar The rear-wheel adjustment bar allows adjustment of the cutting height in either of two ranges: 1’12 to 3’4 inches, and...
  • Page 23 TRANSPORTING This section tells your mower. Transporting your Mower Storing your Mower Removing From Storage and STORING you bow safely transport and store...
  • Page 24: Transporting And Storing

    TRANSPORTING and STORING Always close both pump bypass valves after moving the mower by hand. Always drive the mower under its own power on any incline. If you must move the mower on an incline without running the engine, use a suitable device (winch, block & tackle, come-a-long).
  • Page 25 Storing your Mower Whether you’re leaving your mower unattended for an hour or a month, always: Turn the key off and remove it from the ignition switch. Turn the fuel valve off. If you opened the pump bypass valves, close both of them.
  • Page 26 TRANSPORTING and STORING 7. Change the engine oil (page 42). 8. Lubricate all grease fittings (page 50). 9. Recharge the battery once a month while the mower is in storage (page 74). 10. Check the hydrostatic oil and top off if necessary (page 49). Check tire pressures (see page 57).
  • Page 27: Before Mowing

    BEFORE MOWING This section shows you how to prepare your mower, the lawn, and yourself. Check the Mower Check the Lawn Prepare Yourself...
  • Page 28: Check The Mower

    BEFORE MOWING Check the Mower For your safety and the service life of your equipment, always inspect your mower before using it. Before beginning your pre-operation check, be sure: The mower is parked on a level surface. The blade control lever is disengaged and the ground speed control levers are in NEUTRAL.
  • Page 29: Check The Lawn

    Air Filter Check that the air cleaner elements are clean and in good condition. See page 37 for information on servicing the air cleaner. Cutting Height The cutting height of your mower should be set for the mowing conditions and should be in the same position, front and rear.
  • Page 30: Prepare Yourself

    BEFORE MOWING Prepare Yourself Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk. Knowledge Read and understand this manual. Know what the controls do and how to operate them. Familiarize yourself with the mower and its operation before you begin mowing.
  • Page 31: Operating The Mower

    OPERATING THE MOWER This section tells you how to operate the mower for safe and effective mowing. Starting the Engine Using the Direction Starting to Mow Adjusting your Speed Mowing Tips Parking the Mower Controls...
  • Page 32 OPERATING THE MOWER The Honda Mid-Size Commercial Mower is a powerful, highly maneuverable mower designed to enhance the productivity of a lawn-care professional. You will need a complete understanding of its operation and a certain amount of practice with its controls to safely realize the full potential of this mower.
  • Page 33 Pull the blade control lever to OFF. (The mower should not be started without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.) 2. Pull both forward speed control levers to NEUTRAL. The safety interlock system will prevent the engine from starting if the blade control is ON or if the forward speed controls are not in neutral.
  • Page 34 OPERATING THE MOWER The mower will quickly respond to the position of the levers. To avoid abrupt changes of direction, squeeze the levers slowly rather than treating them like a switch. Operate the mower with the ground speed selector levers in their SLOW position until you are completely familiar with the sensitivity of the direction control levers.
  • Page 35 Zero-radius turns (turns in which the mower has no forward or reverse motion - it just turns in place) are accomplished by squeezing one direction control lever into reverse while the other is in forward. Practice this maneuver at slow speeds until you become accustomed to the mower’s responsiveness.
  • Page 36: Starting To Mow

    OPERATING THE MOWER Making an Emergency Stop To make an emergency stop, release the hand grips. When you let go of the operator presence levers, the safety interlock system will stop the engine and the mower will come to a stop within 3 to 6 feet. Starting to Mow Objects hidden in the lawn can be thrown by the mower blades.
  • Page 37: Mowing Tips

    If the mower’s path is drifting off to the right, move the right lever slightly ahead of the left lever. If the mower’s path is drifting off to the left, move the left lever slightly ahead of the right lever. You may also use this method to control your path when mowing on the side of a slope.
  • Page 38: Parking The Mower

    OPERATING THE MOWER Avoid stopping on a slope. If you must stop on a slope, block the wheels securely if you leave the machine unattended. To start on a slope, keep the throttle at SLOW to help you avoicl abrupt changes of direction. Mowing on a slope when the grass is damp or wet could cause you to slip, fall, or lose control of the mower.
  • Page 39 MAINTENANCE This tells you how and when to perform normal section maintenance and adjustments. Maintenance Precautions High Altitude Operation Emission Control System Maintenance Schedule Tuneup Specifications Air Cleaner Fuel Engine Oil Spark Plugs Valve Clearance Idle Speed Governor Linkage Hydrostatic Lubrication Points Control...
  • Page 40: Maintenance &Adjustments

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS The Importance Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution. To help you properly care for your mower, the following pages include a maintenance schedule, routine inspection procedures, and simple maintenance procedures using basic hand tools.
  • Page 41: High Altitude Operation

    Safety Precautions Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs. This will eliminate several potential hazards: Carbon monoxide exhaust. whenever you operate the engine. Burns from hot parts. system cool before touching. Injury from moving parts. unless instructed to do so.
  • Page 42: Maintenance And Adjustments

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Emission Control System Source of Emissions The combustion process produces carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Control of hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen is very important because, under certain conditions, they react to form photochemical smog when subjected to sunlight.
  • Page 43 Proper Maintenance is the Owner’s Responsibility Replacement Parts The emission control systems on your new Honda engine were designed, built, and certified to conform with EPA and California emission regulations. We recommend only the use of new, genuine Honda parts or their equivalent.
  • Page 44: Maintenance Schedule

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Maintenance Schedule Perform initial service atthis time. Service more frequently when used in dusty conditions. Replace paper element only. Tuneup Specifications ITEM Spark plug gap Carburetor idle speed Valve clearance (cold) Other specifications SPECIFICATION 0.028 - 0.032 in. (0.7 - 0.8 mm) 1400fl50rpm IN 0.005 - 0.007 in.
  • Page 45: Air Cleaner

    Air Cleaner Check that the air cleaner elements areclean and in good condition. A dirty air cleaner will restrict air flow to the engine, reducing performance. A damaged air cleaner will allow dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear. 1.
  • Page 46: Fuel

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS 4. Clean the foam element by squeezing it in warm soapy water, rinsing it, and allowing it to dry. You may also use a nonflammable solvent and then allow it to dry. Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured.
  • Page 47: Starting The Engine

    Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured. When refueling: Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Refuel only outdoors. Wioe up spills immediatelv. Never refuel the mower inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
  • Page 48 MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging can cause engine damage. This type of damage is not covered by the Distributor’s Limited Warranty. Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels.
  • Page 49: Engine Oil

    Changing the Fuel Filter Change the fuel filter at the recommended interval. 1. Turn the fuel shut off valve to the OFF position. 2. Place a container under the filter to catch any spilled fuel. 3. Squeeze the hose clamps and remove the lines from the filter.
  • Page 50 MAINTENANCE I?, ADJUSTMENTS Recommended Use a high-detergent, premium quality 4-stroke engine oil certified to meet or exceed U.S. automobile manufacturers’ requirements for API Service Classification SG. - 20 SAE 1 OW-30 is recommended for general, all-temperature use. Other viscosities shown in the chart may be used when the average temperature in your area is within the indicated range.
  • Page 51: Maintenance &Adjustments

    5. Refill the engine with the correct amount of the recommended oil. 6. After running the engine, recheck the oil level and adjust if necessary. Used engine oil contains substances that have been identified as carcinogenic. If repeatedly left in contact with the skin for prolonged periods, it may cause skin cancer.
  • Page 52: Spark Plugs

    MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS Spark Plugs Recommended Types BPRSES WI GEPR-U NOTICE Spark plugs of the wrong size or incorrect heat range can cause engine damage. Checking the Spark Plugs For good performance, the spark plugs should have the correct gap and be free of deposits. 1.
  • Page 53: Valve Clearance

    Valve Clearance Adjust the valves at the recommended interval. Valve clearance inspection and adjustment must be done with the engine cold. Remove the valve covers. 2. Install a 6x8 mm bolt in the threaded hole of each rocker shaft to hold the shaft in position.
  • Page 54 MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS 5. Measure the clearance between the rocker arm and the valve with a feeler gauge. INTAKE: 0.005 - 0.007 in (0.13 - 0.17 mm) EXHAUST: 0.007 - 0.009 in (0.18 - 0.22 mm) 6. To adjust valve clearance, hold the adjusting screw and loosen the lock nut.
  • Page 55: Idle Speed

    Idle Speed 1. Remove the fan cover hood. 2. Start the engine in an area with adequate ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Allow the engine to warm to normal operating temperature. 3. With the throttle lever at SLOW, turn the idle stop screw to set the idle speed.
  • Page 56: Governor Linkage

    MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS Governor Linkage Perform this procedure only when the engine doesn’t reach its maximum no-load speed and you are sure that the engine is correctly tuned (good spark plug, clean air cleaner, etc.). 1. Remove the fan cover hood. 2.
  • Page 57: Hydrostatic Oil

    Hydrostatic Hydrostatic Oil Capacity: 10.4 quarts, 9.8 liters Checking the Level Remove the cap on the reservoir. 2. The oil level should be even with the lower hole. Add oil to bring it to the correct level. Oil Recommendation SAE 1 OW-40 engine oil meeting or exceeding API Service Classification SG.
  • Page 58: Lubrication Points

    MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS Changing the Oil Filter 1. Drain the reservoir. 2. Remove the oil filter with a filter wrench and let the remaining oil drain out. Correctly dispose of the old oil filter. 3. Clean the filter base with a clean cloth. 4.
  • Page 59 MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS CASTER PIVOTS FORWARD SPEED CONTROL SHAFT...
  • Page 60: Control Linkage Adjustment

    MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS Control Linkage Adjustment If any of the following conditions are noticed, the control linkage must be adjusted. Mower creeps when the direction control levers are positioned in neutral with the neutral locks. Mower creeps when the forward speed control levers are in neutral.
  • Page 61 FORWARD SPEED CONTROL ADJUSTING NUTS PUMP LEVER ROLLER Turn the adjusting nut to lengthen the rod until forward rotation just starts. Turn the adjusting nut, counting the number of turns, to shorten the rod until rear rotation just starts. Turn the adjusting nut to lengthen the rod one-half the number of turns you counted.
  • Page 62 MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS 9. Release the neutral locks and cycle the direction control levers forward and backward several times. Engage the neutral locks and be sure the wheels come to a complete stop. Readjust the linkage if necessary. 10. With the neutral locks engaged, adjust both reverse springs to a length of 2.3 - 2.4 inches (58 - 62 mm).
  • Page 63 MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS FORWARD SPEED FORWARD SPEED CONTROL LINKAGE LOCKNUTS ROLLER...
  • Page 64 MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS Tracking Adjustment Perform this adjustment if the mower will not track straight with the speed control levers evenly positioned. Adjust the speed control linkage before performing this adjustment. 1. Raise and support the rear of the mower so that the rear wheels are clear of the ground.
  • Page 65: Tires

    Speed Control Switch Adjustment 1. Adjust the switch bolt on the left forward speed control lever so that there is 0.02 - 0.04 (0.5 - 1 .O mm) clearance between the end of the switch bolt and the housing of the ball switch on the right forward speed control lever.
  • Page 66: Cutting Height

    MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS Cutting Height The cutting height of your mower can be easily adjusted within two ranges: a low range of Ii/2 to 3’/2 inches, and a high range of 3’/2 to !5’/2 inches. Your Honda dealer assembled your mower with the wheels in the most common range for your area.
  • Page 67 4. Raise the caster post and insert and lock the pin. 5. Repeat the procedure on the other caster wheel. Do not change the location of the washers on the caster post. Rear Wheel Adjustment The rear wheels are adjustable within their range in l/2 inch increments by placing the adjusting bar in the drive axle in one of the 5 holes on the power unit.
  • Page 68: Maintenance And Adjustments

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS 5. Install the linchpin(s) in the adjusting bar. Place the adjusting lever in its storage position and secure it with its spring pin. Cutting Range To change the cutting range of your mower you will reposition the front caster wheels on the mower deck and change the drive axle pivot position on the power unit.
  • Page 69 Rear Cutting Range Adjustment 1. Open the pump bypass valves on both pumps. 2. Raise and support the rear of the power unit so that the rear wheels clear the ground by about 3 inches. 3. Follow the procedures for Rear Wheel Adjustment to remove the adjusting bar and lower the wheels to the ground.
  • Page 70: Blades

    MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS Blades It is important for your safety and the safety of others that you inspect the blades for condition and correct installation before operating the mower. A worn, cracked, or damaged blade can break and pieces of the broken blade can become dangerous projectiles. Thrown objects can cause serious injury.
  • Page 71 4. Inspect each of the blades for cracking, bending, deep nicking, and wear. If any of the blades show signs of damage or excessive wear, remove the blades more thorough inspection. Removing the Blades 1. Turn the ignition switch key OFF and remove the key from the switch.
  • Page 72 MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Servicing the Blades A dull blade may be sharpened, but a blade that is worn out, bent, cracked, or othewise damaged must be replaced. Always use genuine Honda replacement blades. Substitute blades may not meet Honda specifications and may be dangerous.
  • Page 73 MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS TAPER THE CUTTING EDGE BLUNT EDGE...
  • Page 74: Deck Belt Adjustment And Replacement

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Deck Belt Adjustment Replace the deck belt if it is worn, frayed, or glazed. You will need to remove the deck belt to replace the pump belt and disconnect it to replace the blade belt. Whenever you remove and replace the deck belt, check the adjustment of the belt guides, blade control linkage, and the blade brake.
  • Page 75 Adjust Idler Pulley Idler pulley Move the blade control OFF. 2. Remove the belt cover. 3. Loosen the idler bracket pivot bolt and remove the bracket positioning bolt. 4. Move the idler bracket to the alternate hole and tighten the bolts.
  • Page 76 ‘MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS Replace 1. Move the blade control OFF. Remove the belt cover. 3. Loosen the four belt-guide bolts on the power unit. (These are accessible from the top of the unit.) 4. Loosen the pivot bolts on the idler pulley and the tensioner pulley and move the belt guides away from the pulleys.
  • Page 77: Blade Brake Adjustment

    14. Turn the wing nut to set the spring length. 15. Check the blade brake adjustment (page 69). Install the belt cover. Blade Brake Adjustment Check the blade brake adjustments whenever the deck belt is adjusted or replaced. Moving belts and pulleys can cause serious injuries. Do not operate engine with the belt cover removed.
  • Page 78: Blade Belt Adjustment And Replacement

    MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS Blade Belt Adjustment Replace the blade belt if it is worn, frayed, or glazed. Moving belts and pulleys can cause serious injuries. Do not operate engine with the belt cover removed. Before removing belt cover for maintenance, remove key from ignition switch and disconnect all spark plug leads.
  • Page 79 Adjust 1. Move the blade control OFF. 2. Remove the belt cover. 3. Remove the blade belt from the right (discharge-side) spindle pulley. 4. Loosen the tensioner bracket pivot bolt and remove the bracket positioning bolt. 5. Move the bracket to next position. (The 52” deck has one alternate position, the 60”...
  • Page 80: Pump Belt Replacement And Adjustment

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Pump Belt Replacement Replace the pump belt if it is worn, frayed, or glazed. You will need to remove the deck belt first (page 66). Remove 1. Adjust the rear mowing height to the highest setting. 2. Remove the tensioner pivot bolt and remove the tensioner. 3.
  • Page 81: Spark Arrester (Optional)

    Spark Arrester If the engine has been running, the muffler will be hot enough to burn you. Allow the muffler to cool before proceeding. INOTICEI The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to maintain its efficiency. Remove the five 6 mm screws and the muffler protector.
  • Page 82: Battery Service (Electric Start Models)

    MAINTENANCE &ADJUSTMENTS Battery Service (electric start models) The mower charging system charges the battery while the engine is running. However, if the mower is only used periodically, the battery must be charged monthly to maintain the battery service life. A lead acid battery self-discharges at a rate of 0.5 - 1 .O % per day.
  • Page 83 Charging the battery The battery is rated at 14 Ah (ampere hours). 10% of the ampere hour rating should be used as the charging current. A battery charger should be used that can be adjusted to deliver 1.4 amperes. 1. Remove the battery cell caps. 2.
  • Page 84 MAINTENANCE 8, ADJUSTMENTS...
  • Page 85: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING This section tells you what to look for if you encounter problems. Engine Mower...
  • Page 86 TROUBLESHOOTING Engine Doesn’t start The key must be ON. Forward speed controls must be in NEUTRAL. Fuel tank should be full of fresh fuel (page 38). Fuel filter should be clean and free of obstructions (page 41). Fuel valve should be on (page 11). Throttle should be in CHOKE for cold engine, FAST for warm engine.
  • Page 87 Pulls to one side Tires should be correctly inflated (page 57). The control linkages must be correctly adjusted (page 52). Both pump bypass valves must be closed (page 24). Vibrates Blades should be in good condition (page 62). The deck must be free of any accumulation of clippings. Deck and blade belts should be in good condition and at correct tension (page 66).
  • Page 89: Specifications

    SPECIFICATIONS This section provides you with important dimensions and capacities. Mower Engine...
  • Page 90 SPECIFICATIONS Mower Tire size:...
  • Page 91 Spark plug Spark plug gap Fuel Fuel tank capacity Engine oil Engine oil capacity HRC7018 GXV610 II 8 hp/3600 rpm 3400 *I 50 rpm 1400 *I 50 rpm Transistorized magneto 0 005 - 0 007 inch (0 . 13 - 0 . 17mm)
  • Page 93: Index

    INDEX Air Cleaner ... Battery ... Belts Blade Belt ... Deck Belt ... Pump Belt ... Blade Brake Blade Control Blades ... Choke Location. Customer Service ... Cutting Height Adjustment ... Direction Controls Location ....9 Operation .
  • Page 94 Hourmeter ... Ignition Switch ..Neutral Lock ..* Operator Presence Levers Location ..Preoperation Check .
  • Page 95: Additional Information

    ADDITIONAL This section gives you sources for more information about your mower. Honda Publications Customer Service Information INFORMATION...
  • Page 96 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Honda Publications These publications will give you additional information about maintaining your mower. You may order them from your Honda Commercial Mower dealer. Shop Manual This manual covers complete maintenance and overhaul procedures. It is intended to be used by a skilled technician. Parts Catalog This provides a complete pictorial parts listing.
  • Page 97 Customer Service Information Honda Power Equipment dealerships are staffed by 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.
  • Page 98 When you write or call, please provide the following information: • Model and serial numbers • Name of the dealer who sold the Honda power equipment to you • Name and address of the dealer who services your equipment •...

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Hrc7020

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