Honda GC160, GC190 Manual

Honda GC160, GC190 Manual

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Honda GC160, GC190 Manual

COMPONENT LOCATION

Components Overview

  1. Fuel filler cap
  2. Starter grip
  3. Fuel tank
  4. Control location *
  5. Air cleaner
  6. Spark plug
  7. Muffler
  8. Muffler deflector (optional)
  9. Oil filler cap/dipstick
  10. Oil drain bolt
  11. Engine serial number and type

* The engine control area differs based on the engine type.

SAFETY MESSAGES

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. We have provided important safety messages in this manual and on the engine. Please read these messages carefully.
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol warning and one of three words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.
Each message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen, and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

DAMAGE PREVENTION MESSAGES
You will also see other important messages that are preceded by the word NOTICE.
This word means:
NOTICE
Your engine, other property, or the environment can be damaged if you don't follow instructions.
The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your engine, other property, or the environment.

BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS

IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO?
For your safety, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, 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.

Improperly maintaining this engine, or failing to correct a problem before operation, could cause a malfunction in which you could be seriously injured.
Always perform a pre-operation inspection before each operation, and correct any problem.

Before beginning your preoperation checks, be sure the engine is level and the throttle lever, or engine stop switch is in the STOP or OFF position.
Always check the following items before you start the engine:

  1. Fuel level.
  2. Oil level. The Oil Alert® system (applicable engine types) will automatically stop the engine before the oil level falls below safe limits. However, to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown, always check the engine oil level before startup.
  3. Air cleaner.
  4. General inspection: Check for fluid leaks and loose or damaged parts.
  5. Check the equipment powered by this engine.

Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any precautions and procedures that should be followed before engine startup.

OPERATION

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS

Before operating the engine for the first time, please review the SAFETY MESSAGES and the BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS.
For your safety, do not operate the engine in an enclosed area such as a garage. Your engine's exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause illness or death.

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can build up to dangerous levels in closed areas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause unconsciousness or death.
Never run the engine in a closed or even partially closed area where people may be present.

Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any safety precautions that should be observed with engine startup, shutdown, or operation.
Do not operate the engine on slopes greater than 20°.

FREQUENCY OF USE

If your equipment will be used on an infrequent or intermittent basis (more than 4 weeks between usage), See "AVOIDING FUEL-RELATED PROBLEMS" for additional information regarding fuel deterioration.

STARTING/STOPPING THE ENGINE (ALL TYPES)

See the figures to identify the type of control used on your equipment. Type specific starting and stopping information can be found after the general information shown below.

  1. Manual Choke
  2. Manual Throttle (gray)

  1. Manual Choke
  2. Ignition Switch Lever (red), Fixed Throttle

  1. Manual Choke
  2. Engine Stop Switch, Fixed Throttle
  • Manual choke: Place the choke lever/rod [1] in the CHOKE position when starting a cold engine.
    Move the choke lever/rod to the OFF position as soon as the engine fully warms up and runs smoothly without use of the choke, or for restarting a warm engine.
  • Engine speed: For best engine performance, it is recommended the engine be operated with the throttle in the FAST (or high) position.
  • Starter grip: Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, and then pull briskly.

NOTICE
Do not allow the starter grip to snap back against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to the starter.

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 oil level in the crankcase can fall below a safe limit, the Oil Alert system will automatically stop the engine [the throttle lever (ignition switch lever) will remain in a run position].
If the engine stops and will not restart, check the engine oil level before troubleshooting in other areas.

Type 1: Manual Choke, Manual Throttle

STARTING THE ENGINE

  1. Move the choke rod [1] to the CLOSED position (cold engine).
  2. Move the throttle lever (gray) [2] to the SLOW position, about 1/3 of the way toward the FAST position (see Figure 2). Some engine applications use a remotely-mounted throttle control rather than the engine-mounted throttle lever shown.
  3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt; then pull briskly.
  4. If the choke rod was pulled to the CLOSED position to start the engine, push it to the OPEN position as soon as the engine warms up enough to run smoothly.
  5. Position the throttle control lever (gray) for the desired engine speed.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

  1. Move the throttle control lever (gray) to the SLOW position.
  2. Allow the engine to idle for a few seconds; then move the throttlecontrol lever to the STOP position.

Type 2: Manual Choke, Ignition Switch Lever, Fixed Throttle

STARTING THE ENGINE

  1. Move the choke rod [1] to the CLOSED position (cold engine) (see Figure 1).
  2. Move the ignition switch lever (red) [4] to the ON position (see Figure 4). Some engine applications use a remote-mounted ignition switch rather than the engine-mounted lever shown.
  3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt; then pull briskly.
  4. If the choke rod was pulled to the CLOSED position to start the engine, push it to the OPEN position as soon as the engine warms up enough to run smoothly. The engine speed is preset on this type.

STOPPING THE ENGINE
Move the ignition switch lever (red) to the OFF position.

Type 3: Manual Choke, Engine Stop Switch, Fixed Throttle
Some engine applications use a remote-mounted engine stop switch rather than the engine-mounted engine stop switch shown. Refer to the instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer.

STARTING THE ENGINE

  1. Move the choke rod [1] to the CLOSED position (cold engine) (see Figure 1).
  2. Move the engine stop switch [2] to the ON position.
  3. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt; then pull briskly.
  4. If the choke rod was pulled to the CLOSED position to start the engine, push it to the OPEN position as soon as the engine warms up enough to run smoothly. The engine speed is preset on this type.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

Move the engine stop switch to the OFF position (see Figure 6).

SERVICING YOUR ENGINE

THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE

Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce pollution.

Improper maintenance, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this Owner's Manual.

To help you properly care for your engine, the following pages include a maintenance schedule, routine inspection procedures, and simple maintenance procedures using basic hand tools. Other service tasks that are more difficult, or require special tools, are best handled by professionals and are normally performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.
The maintenance schedule applies to normal operating conditions. If you operate your engine under severe conditions, such as sustained high-load or high-temperature operation, or use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, consult your servicing dealer for recommendations applicable to your individual needs and use.
Remember that an authorized Honda servicing dealer knows your engine best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it.
To ensure the best quality and reliability, use only new Honda Genuine parts or their equivalents for repair and replacement.
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual, using parts that are "certified" to EPA standards.

MAINTENANCE SAFETY

Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. 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 seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this Owner's Manual.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

  • Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs. This will eliminate several potential hazards:
    • Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.
      Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
    • Burns from hot parts.
      Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
    • Injury from moving parts.
      Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.
  • Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.
  • To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline. Use only a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel related parts.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Perform at every indicated month/year or operating hour interval, whichever comes first.(1)

Regular Service Period Item
Before each use Check: Engine oil level
Check: Air filter
First month or 5 hours Change: Engine oil
Every 3 months or 25 hours Clean: Air filter (2)
Every 6 months or 50 hours Change: Engine oil (3)
Clean: Air filter (2)
Every year or 100 hours 6 month items above plus:
Check-adjust: Spark plug
Clean: Spark arrester (if equipped)
Check-adjust: Idle speed (4)
Clean: Fuel tank and filter (4)
Check-adjust: Valve clearance (4)
Every 2 years or 200 hours Yearly items above plus:
Replace: Air filter
Replace: Spark plug
Every 2 years Check: Fuel lines (4) (replace if necessary)
  1. For commercial use, log hours of operation to determine proper maintenance intervals.
  2. Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
  3. Change engine oil every 25 hours when used under heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
  4. These items should be serviced by an authorized Honda servicing dealer, unless you have the proper tools and are mechanically proficient. Refer to the Honda shop manual for service procedures. See "Honda PUBLICATIONS" for ordering information. Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in non-warrantable failures.

REFUELING

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher (research octain rating of 91 or higher).
We recommend refueling after each use to minimize the air present in the fuel tank.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. If the engine has been running, allow it to cool first. Never refuel the engine inside a building where gasoline fumes may reach flames or sparks.
You may use regular unleaded gasoline containing no more than 10% ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol by volume. In addition, methanol must contain cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Use of fuels with content of ethanol or methanol greater than shown above may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of the fuel system. In addition, ethanol is hygroscopic, which means it attracts and retains water in the fuel system. Engine damage or performance problems that result from using a fuel with percentages of ethanol or methanol greater than shown above are not covered by warranty.
If your equipment will be used on an infrequent or intermittent basis (more than 4 weeks between usage), See "AVOIDING FUEL-RELATED PROBLEMS" for additional information regarding fuel deterioration.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or oil/gasoline mixture. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

  • Stop the engine and allow to cool.
  • Keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
  • Handle fuel only outdoors.
  • Wipe up spills immediately.

Adding Fuel

  1. Remove the fuel tank cap.
  2. Add fuel to the bottom of the fuel level limit [1] in the neck of the fuel tank. Do not overfill. Wipe up spilled fuel before starting the engine.
  3. Install the fuel tank cap and tighten it until it clicks.
    Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from the fueling source and site before starting the engine.

NOTICE
Fuel can damage paint and some types of plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under your DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED WARRANTY.

ENGINE OIL

Oil is a major factor affecting performance and service life. Always change the oil in accordance with the maintenance schedule.

Recommended Oil
Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets or exceeds the requirements for API service category SJ or later. Always check the API service label on the oil container to be sure it includes the letters SJ or later.
SAE 10W-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 indicated range.

Oil Level Check

See Figure 8.

  1. Check the oil with the engine stopped and level.
  2. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick [1] and wipe it clean.
  3. Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick into the oil filler neck as shown, but do not screw it in, and then remove it to check the oil level.
  4. If the oil level is near or below the lower limit mark [2] on the dipstick, fill with the recommended oil to the upper limit mark [3]. Do not overfill.
  5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick [1].

Oil Change
Drain the engine oil when the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely.

  1. Place a suitable container next to the engine to catch the used oil.
  2. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick [1], and the oil drain plug [2] and washer [3].
  3. Allow the used oil to drain completely; then reinstall the drain plug and new washer. Tighten the drain plug securely.
    Please dispose of used motor oil in a manner that is compatible with the environment. We suggest you take used oil in a sealed container to your local recycling center or service station for reclamation. Do not throw it in the trash, pour it on the ground, or pour it down a drain.
  4. With the engine in a level position, fill to the upper limit mark (bottom edge of the oil fill hole) on the dipstick with the recommended oil. Do not overfill.
    Capacity: 20 oz (0.58 L)
    NOTICE
    Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage. This type of damage is not covered by the DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED WARRANTY.
  5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick [1] securely.

AIR CLEANER

A properly maintained air filter will help prevent dirt from entering your engine. Dirt entering the carburetor can be drawn into small passages in the carburetor and cause premature engine wear. These small passages can become blocked, causing starting or running problems. You will need to clean the filter more frequently if you operate the engine in very dusty areas.
NOTICE
Operating the engine without an air filter, or with a damaged filter, will allow dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear. This type of damage is not covered under your DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED WARRANTY.
We recommend the use of a Honda Genuine air filter to ensure it seals and performs as designed. Using a non-Honda air filter can result in dirt bypassing the filter, causing damage to the engine or fuel system.

Inspection

  1. Press the latch tabs [1] on the top of the air cleaner cover [2], and remove the cover. Check the filter [3] to be sure it is clean and in good condition.
  2. Reinstall the filter and air cleaner cover.

Cleaning

  1. Tap the filter several times on a hard surface to remove dirt, or blow compressed air not exceeding 30 psi (207 kPa) through the filter from the clean side that faces the engine. Never try to brush off dirt. Brushing will force dirt into the fibers.
  2. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner body [4] and cover using a moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct [5] that leads to the carburetor.

SPARK PLUG

Required Spark Plug: NGK - BPR6ES
The required spark plug is the correct heat range for normal engine operating temperatures.
NOTICE
Incorrect spark plugs can cause engine damage.
For good performance, the spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits.

  1. Disconnect the cap from the spark plug, and remove any dirt from the spark plug area.
  2. Use the proper size spark plug wrench [1] to remove the spark plug.
  3. Inspect the spark plug. Replace it if damaged, badly fouled, if the sealing washer [2] is in poor condition, or if the electrode is worn.
  4. Measure the electrode gap with a suitable gauge. The correct gap is 0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.70 ~ 0.80 mm). If adjustment is needed, correct the gap by carefully bending the side electrode.
  5. Install the spark plug carefully, by hand, to avoid cross-threading.
  6. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with the proper size spark plug wrench to compress the washer.
    When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.
    When reinstalling the original spark plug, tighten 1/8 ~ 1/4 turn after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.
    NOTICE
    Properly tighten the spark plug. A loose spark plug can become very hot and can damage the engine. Overtightening the spark plug can damage the threads in the cylinder head.
  7. Attach the spark plug cap to the spark plug.

SPARK ARRESTER (IF EQUIPPED)

The spark arrester may be standard or an optional part, depending on the engine type. In some areas, it is illegal to operate an engine without a spark arrester. Check local laws and regulations. A spark arrester is available from authorized Honda servicing dealers.
The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep it functioning as designed.
If the engine has been running, the muffler will be hot. Allow it to cool before servicing the spark arrester.

Removal

  1. Remove the three 6 mm bolts [1] from the muffler protector [2], and remove the muffler protector.
  2. Remove the 4 mm screw [3] from the spark arrester [4], and remove the spark arrester from the muffler [5].

Cleaning & Inspection

  1. Use a brush to remove carbon deposits from the spark arrester screen. Be careful not to damage the screen. Replace the spark arrester if it has breaks or holes.
  2. Install the spark arrester in the reverse order of removal.

STORING YOUR ENGINE

STORAGE PREPARATION
Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your engine trouble-free 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.

CLEANING
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour before cleaning. Clean all exterior surfaces, touch up any damaged paint, and coat other areas that may rust with a light film of oil.
NOTICE
Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in the air cleaner will soak the air filter, and water that passes through the air filter or muffler can enter the cylinder, causing damage.

FUEL
See "AVOIDING FUEL-RELATED PROBLEMS".

ENGINE OIL

  1. Change the engine oil.
  2. Remove the spark plug.
  3. Pour 1 - 2 teaspoons (5 ~ 10 cc) of clean engine oil into the cylinder.
  4. Pull the recoil starter several times to distribute the oil.
  5. Reinstall the spark plug.

STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
If your engine will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank, 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. Also avoid any area with a spark-producing electric motor, or where power tools are operated.
If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity, because that promotes rust and corrosion.
Keep the engine level in storage. Tilting can cause fuel or oil leakage.
With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover the engine to keep out dust. A hot engine and exhaust system can ignite or melt some materials. Do not use sheet plastic as a dust cover. A nonporous cover will trap moisture around the engine, promoting rust and corrosion.

Removal From Storage
Check your engine as described in the BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS section of this manual.
If the fuel was drained during storage preparation, fill the tank with fresh gasoline. If you keep a container of gasoline for refueling, be sure it contains only fresh gasoline. Gasoline oxidizes and deteriorates over time, causing hard starting.
If the cylinder was coated with oil during storage preparation, the engine will smoke briefly at startup. This is normal.

TRANSPORTING

Keep the engine level when transporting to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage. Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any procedures that should be followed for transporting.

TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS

Engine will not start

POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
Choke is OFF. Unless the engine is warm, move the choke lever to the CHOKE position.
Ignition switch or engine stop
  • Move the throttle lever to the SLOW or FAST position
  • Move the ignition switch lever to the ON position
  • Move the engine stop switch to the ON position
Engine oil level is low (oil alert models) Fill with the recommended oil to the proper level.
Out of fuel. Refuel
Bad fuel; engine stored without treating gasoline, or refueled with bad gasoline. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor. Refuel with fresh gasoline.
Spark plug faulty, fouled, or improperly gapped. Adjust or replace the spark plug.
Spark plug wet with fuel (flooded engine). Dry and reinstall the spark plug. Start the engine with the choke in the OFF position and the throttle lever in the FAST position.
Fuel filter clogged, carburetor malfunction, ignition malfunction, valves stuck, etc. Take the engine to an authorized Honda servicing dealer or refer to the shop manual to replace or repair faulty components as necessary.

Engine lacks power

POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
Air filter clogged. Clean or replace the air filter.
Bad fuel; engine stored without treating the gasoline, of refueled with bad gasoline. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor. Refuel with fresh gasoline.
Fuel filter clogged, carburetor malfunction, ignition malfunction, valves stuck, etc. Take the engine to an authorized Honda servicing dealer or refer to the shop manual to replace or repair faulty components as necessary.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Carburetor Modifications 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. Operation at an altitude that differs from that at which this engine was certified, for extended periods of time, may increase emissions.
High altitude performance can be improved by specific modifications to the carburetor. If you always operate your engine at altitudes above 2,000 feet (610 meters), have your servicing dealer perform this carburetor modification. This engine, when operated at high altitude with the carburetor modifications for high altitude use, will meet each emission standard throughout its useful life.
Even with carburetor modification, engine horsepower will decrease about 3.5% for each 1,000-foot (300-meter) increase in altitude. The effect of altitude on horsepower will be greater than this if no carburetor modification is made.
When using auto throttle type engines in high altitude applications, the ability to idle down to 2,500 rpm could be diminished. See your servicing dealer for information on adjustments if your auto throttle unit does not idle down with the load released or has trouble returning to full rpm with the load applied.
NOTICE
When the carburetor has been modified for high altitude operation, the air-fuel mixture will be too lean for low altitude use. Operation at altitudes below 2,000 feet (610 meters) with a modified carburetor may cause the engine to overheat and result in serious engine damage. For use at low altitudes, have your servicing dealer return the carburetor to original factory specifications.

Specifications

GC160

Length x Width x Height 13.3 x 14.7 x 13.0 in
(337 x 372.5 x 331 mm)
Dry weight 25 lb (11.5 kg)
Engine type 4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement [Bore x Stroke] 9.8 cu-in (160 cm3)
[2.5 x 2.0 in (64 x 50 mm)]
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58 L)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8 L)
Cooling system Forced air
Ignition system Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation Counterclockwise

GC190

Length x Width x Height 13.6 x 14.7 x 13.0 in
(345 x 372.5 x 331 mm)
Dry weight 29 lb (13.2 kg)
Engine type 4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement [Bore x Stroke] 11.4 cu-in (187 cm3)
[2.7 x 2.0 in (69 x 50 mm)]
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58 L)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8 L)
Cooling system Forced air
Ignition system Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation Counterclockwise

Tuneup Specifications

ITEM SPECIFICATION MAINTENANCE
Spark plug gap 0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.7 ~ 0.8 mm)
Refer to "SPARK PLUG"
Valve clearance (cold) IN: 0.15 ± 0.04 mm
EX: 0.20 ± 0.04 mm
See your authorized Honda dealer
Other specifications No other adjustments needed.

Quick Reference Information

ITEM DESCRIPTION
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher.
Engine Oil Type SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later, for general use. Refer to "ENGINE OIL".
Carburetor Idle Speed 1,400 ± 150 rpm
Spark plug Type BPR6ES (NGK)
Maintenance Before each use Check engine oil level. Refer to "ENGINE OIL".
Check air filter. Refer to "AIR CLEANER".
First 5 hours Change engine oil. Refer to "ENGINE OIL".
Subsequent Refer to the maintenance schedule.

Wiring Diagrams

Wiring Diagrams

  1. SPARK PLUG
  2. IGNITION COIL
  3. IGNITION SWITCH
  4. OIL LEVEL SWITCH
  5. OIL ALERT UNIT

GC ENGINE POWERED PRODUCTS
When properly maintained, your Honda powered product should provide years of trouble-free operation. This includes the fuel system. However, gasoline can quickly deteriorate (in as little as 30 days) causing starting or running problems and, in some cases, damage to the fuel system. Most fuel-related problems can be avoided by following the precautions listed below. Fuel system damage and engine performance problems resulting from deteriorated gasoline are not covered by the DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED WARRANTY.

Follow These Precautions to Prevent Most Fuel-Related Problems

During the Operating Season Reason
Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Not all automotive gasoline is safe to use in your power product. Higher levels of ethanol in gasoline attract water, and can corrode or damage the fuel system and cause performance problems.
Store gasoline in a clean, plastic, sealed container approved for fuel storage.
Store your fuel supply container away from direct sunlight; if the container has a vent, keep it closed.
A plastic container eliminates the risk of rust and metallic contaminants from a metal container entering the fuel system.
Gasoline will deteriorate faster when exposed to air and sunlight.
Purchase only enough gasoline to last for 1 to 2 months (about 30 to 60 days).
If you purchase enough gasoline to last for more than 60 days, add a fuel stabilizer to your storage container when you fill it.
Gasoline deteriorates with age so try to avoid storing it for long periods, especially in summer heat.
Fuel stabilizer will extend the shelf life of gasoline, but it will not reconstitute stale fuel.
Keep your product's fuel tank full of fresh fuel when not in use. If the fuel tank is only partially filled, air in the tank will promote fuel deterioration.
Keep the air filter clean and properly serviced. Check it before each use. A properly maintained air filter will help prevent dirt from entering the carburetor. The small passages inside the carburetor can become blocked.
1 to 3 Months Before Next Use Reason
If you did not add fuel stabilizer to your fuel storage container when you filled it up, fill your product's fuel tank with fresh gasoline. If the fuel tank is only partially filled, air in the tank will promote fuel deterioration.
Add fuel stabilizer to the product's fuel tank according to the stabilizer manufacturer's instructions. Fuel stabilizer will extend the life of gasoline, but it will not reconstitute stale gasoline.
Run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes. This makes sure treated gasoline has replaced untreated gasoline throughout the fuel system.
More Than 3 Months Before Next Use Reason
Use a siphon pump (commercially available) and siphon the fuel out of the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container and then drain the carburetor.

Do not allow gasoline to remain in your product's fuel tank for more than 3 months (about 90 days) of inactivity.
All fuel stabilizers have a shelf life. It is good practice to empty the fuel system for long term inactivity.

CONSUMER INFORMATION

DISTRIBUTOR/DEALER LOCATOR INFORMATION

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:
Visit our website: www.engines.honda.com

Canada:
Call (888) 9HONDA9 [888 946-6329] or visit our website: www.honda.ca

CUSTOMER 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. The Service Manager, General Manager, or Owner can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.
If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact the Honda Regional Engine Distributor for your area. You can find their name, address, and phone number using the dealer/distributor locator on our website at www.engines.honda.com
If you are still dissatisfied after speaking with the Regional Engine Distributor, you may contact the Honda Office as shown below.

Honda's Office
When you write or call, please provide this information:

  • Equipment manufacturer's name and model number that the engine is mounted on
  • Engine model, serial number, and type
  • Name of dealer who sold the engine to you
  • Name, address, and contact person of the dealer who services your engine
  • Date of purchase
  • Your name, address and telephone number
  • A detailed description of the problem

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc
.
Power Equipment Division
Customer Relations Dept.
4900 Marconi Drive
Alpharetta, GA 30005-8847
Or telephone: (770) 497-6400, 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ET

Canada:
Honda Canada, Inc.

180 Honda Blvd, Markham, ON L6C 0H9
or visit: www.honda.ca
Telephone:
(888) 9HONDA9 Toll free
(888) 946-6329
Facsimile: (877) 939-0909 Toll free

SAFETY INFORMATION

  • Understand the operation of all controls and learn how to stop the engine quickly in case of emergency. Make sure the operator receives adequate instruction before operating the equipment.
  • Do not allow children to operate the engine. Keep children and pets away from the area of operation.
  • Your engine's exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Do not run the engine without adequate ventilation, and never run the engine indoors.
  • The engine and exhaust become very hot during operation. Keep the engine at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from buildings and other equipment during operation. Keep flammable materials away, and do not place anything on the engine while it is running.

SAFETY LABEL LOCATION
The label contains important safety information. Please read it carefully.
This label is considered a permanent part of your engine. So if the label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your dealer for a replacement.

Documents / Resources

References

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Honda GC160, GC190 Manual

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