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The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Power Equipment Mfg., Inc. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever.
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When your mower needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that an authorized Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda mowers and is supported by the parts and service divisions of American Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.
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INTRODUCTION A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY Your safety, and the safety of others, are very important. And using this lawn mower safely is an important responsibility. To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual.
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..... . . 83 Additional information, Honda publications available to you, and how to contact us if you have a question or a warranty repair problem.
MOWER SAFETY This chapter explains what you need to know to operate your mower safely. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ....Avoid Rotating Blades ......Clear Mowing Area ......Keep Shields in Place ......Refuel with Care......... Wear Protective Clothing......Turn Engine Off When Not Mowing.
MOWER SAFETY IMPORTANT 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. Avoid Rotating Blades Rotating blades can cause serious cuts and even amputate fingers,...
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS YOUR CHILDREN’S SAFETY IS VERY IMPORTANT to Honda. That’s why we urge you to read this message before letting your youngster operate this lawn mower. Lawn mowers are tools, not toys. As with any equipment, bad judgments can result in serious injuries.
MOWER SAFETY SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are considered permanent parts of your mower. So if a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your dealer for a replacement. UNDER NORMAL USAGE, THIS BAG MATERIAL 1 DO NOT START UNLESS GUARD IS SUBJECT TO DETERIORATION AND WEAR,...
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CONTROLS This chapter shows the locations of controls and other important parts of your mower, and it tells you how the controls work..... COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION ....DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS........FuelValve.. Throttle Lever........Engine Switch (HMA)......Blade Control Lever......Drive Clutch Lever ......
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CONTROLS BLADE CONTROL BLADE CONTROL LEVER BUlTON DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER Qu;FT LEVER e$ FRAME ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER ;;;;;R THROTTLE (on back of engine) LEVER / /: NDLEBAR SPARK PLUG CAP CKING CUlTlNG HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER FUEL VALVE AIR CLEANER ADJUSTMENT LEVERS CARBURETOR Record the frame and engine serial numbers in the space below.
CONTROLS DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS Fuel Valve The fuel valve opens and closes the connection between the fuel tank and the carburetor. Throttle Lever For starting a cold engine. CHOKE For restarting a warm engine and for mowing. FAST --- For idling the engine. SLOW--- For stopping the engine.
CONTROLS Engine Switch (HMA) START- Operates the electric starter. Running position (the engine switch must be in the ON position to use the recoil starter). OFF - Stops the engine. ENGINE SWITCH...
CONTROLS Blade Control Lever The blade control lever starts and stops blade rotation. BUTTON Drive Clutch Lever The drive clutch lever engages and disengages the transmission that drives the rear wheels. BLADE CONTROL DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER...
CONTROLS Shift Lever The shift lever selects the drive speed for the mower. HR215SXA For mowing thick grass or maneuvering in small areas. 1 (slow) - 2 (medium) - For intermediate self-propelled speed. 3 (fast)- For maximum self-propelled speed in large, open areas and for transport.
CONTROLS ’ Cutting Height Adjustment Levers There are six settings to choose from, as shown in the illustration. The cutting height figures are approximate. The actual height of cut grass will vary with lawn and soil conditions. ADJUSTMENT in (20 mm) LEVER in (33 mm) in (45 mm)
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BEFORE OPERATION This chapter explains how to fuel and check your mower to be sure it is ready, and it tells you how to prepare your lawn and yourself before you begin mowing. CHECK YOUR LAWN ......Objects ........People and Pets........ Lawn .........
BEFORE OPERATION CHECK YOUR LAWN For your safety and for the safety of others, always inspect the area before mowing. Objects Anything which can be picked up by the blade and thrown is a potential hazard to you and others. Look for things like stones, sticks, bones, and wire.
When the blade needs sharpening or replacement take the lawn mower to an authorized Honda dealer. Or, if you have a torque wrench, you can remove and install the blade yourself (see pages 62-63).
BEFORE OPERATION Engine Oil Level Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and the mower on a level surface. 1. Remove the oil filler cap, and wipe the dipstick clean. 2. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck.
BEFORE OPERATION Fuel Fuel tank capacity: 0.26 US gal (1 .O P) Refuel in a well-ventilated area before starting the engine. If the engine has been running, allow it to cool. Refer to page 55 for fuel recommendations and page 86 for information about oxgenated fuels. Remove the fuel tank cap and check the fuel level.
Air Cleaner Inspection Check that the air filters are clean and in good condition. Dirty air filters will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. Refer to page 51 for air cleaner service. AIR CLEANER HOUSING PAPER FILTER FOAM FILTER COVER SCREW...
BEFORE OPERATION Handlebar Height Adjustment Adjust handlebar height for a comfortable operating position. 1. Loosen the lower handlebar locking knobs. 2. Loosen both left and right height adjuster locking bolts with a 12 mm wrench. 3. Adjust the handlebar to a comfortable height. 4.
BEFORE OPERATION Grass Bag A lawn mower works like a vacuum cleaner; it blows air through the bag, which traps the grass clippings. Always empty the grass bag before it becomes filled to the limit of its capacity. Bagging performance will diminish after the bag becomes about 90% filled. Also, the bag is easier to empty when it is not packed full.
Cutting Height Check the mower deck cutting height settings, and be sure that all four adjustment levers are set to the same cutting height position. To adjust cutting height, pull each adjustment lever toward the wheel, and move it into another notch. If you are not sure what cutting height to select, start with a high setting, and check the appearance of the lawn after mowing a small area.
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OPERATION This chapter tells you how to operate the mower safely and effectively. MOWING PRECAUTIONS ......STARTING THE ENGINE ......OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING ..ThrottleLever ........Blade Control Lever......Drive Clutch Lever......HR215SXA........3 HR215HMA & HR215HXA ....... All Models ........
OPERATION MOWING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the mower for the first time, please review the beginning on page 6 and the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION previous chapter, titled BEFORE OPERA T/ON. Even if you have operated other mowers, take time to become familiar with how this mower works and practice in a safe area until you build up your skills.
OPERATION STARTING THE ENGINE Before starting, always release the blade control lever and drive clutch lever, so the blade will not turn, and the mower will not move forward, when you operate the starter. 1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position. FUEL VALVE 2.
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OPERATION 3. Operate the starter. MANUAL STARTING STARTER GRI (all models): Place your foot on the mower deck step. Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently. HR215HMA: The engine switch must be in the ON position to STEP start the engine with the recoil...
OPERATION OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING Throttle Lever For best cut quality, always mow with the throttle lever in the FAST position. When the blade rotates at the preset fast speed, it creates a strong fan action that lifts and cuts grass more efficiently.
OPERATION Drive Clutch Lever HR215SXA Push the drive clutch lever forward to propel the mower. Release the drive clutch lever to stop the mower’s forward movement. HR215HMA & HR215HXA You can control self-propelled speed with the drive clutch lever. The mower will move gradually faster as you push the drive clutch DRIVE CLUTCH-LEVER...
OPERATION Shift Lever Use the shift lever to select the forward speed at which you wish to mow. Do not use the throttle lever to adjust your forward speed. The throttle lever must remain in the FAST position for good mowing performance.
OPERATION STOPPING THE ENGINE 1. Releasti the drive clutch lever and blade control lever. BLADE CONTROL LEVER LUTCHLEVER Move the throttle lever to the STOP position and on HR215HMA models turn the engine switch to the OFF postion. ’ When the mower is not in use, turn the fuel valve to the OFF position FUEL VALVE...
OPERATION SAFE MOWING PRACTICES For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground, and be careful to avoid losing your footing and your control of the mower. Keep a firm grip on the handlebar, and walk, never run, with the mower. Be very careful when mowing uneven or rough ground.
OPERATION Obstacles Use the side of the mower to cut close to large obstacles, such as fences or walls. Release the drive clutch lever to disengage the drive when mowing around trees and other obstacles. Push the mower around obstacles for better directional control.
OPERATION MOWING TIPS When to Mow Most grasses should be mowed when they have grown ‘A,, to 1 inch above their recommended height. Cutting Height Consult a local nursery or lawn and garden center for cutting height recommendations and advice about specific types of LONG ENOUGH grasses and growing conditions in your area.
OPERATION Blade Speed The blade must spin very fast to cut properly. Always use the FAST throttle setting, and keep the engine running at maximum rpm. If engine speed drops, it could mean the engine is being overloaded by the blade trying to cut too much grass. Mow a narrower swath, move the mower slower, or raise the cutting height.
OPERATION Mowing Patterns Your Honda mower will work most efficiently if you use the following mowing patterns as much as possible. Mower deck and equipment design, and the direction in which the blade rotates, cause these mowing patterns to give the best results.
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This chapter explains how to load and carry your mower safely. BEFORE LOADING ......42 LOADING AND UNLOADING.
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TRANSPORTING BEFORE LOADING If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before loading the mower on the transport vehicle. A hot engine and exhaust system can burn you and can ignite some materials. 1.
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MAINTENANCE This chapter explains when and how to perform routine inspection, service, and adjustments for do-it-yourself maintenance. More difficult maintenance tasks should be done by your dealer. Your dealer is best equipped and staffed to provide the level of service and safety you and your mower deserve.
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...
Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts. Remember that an authorized Honda servicing dealer knows your mower best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. To ensure the best quality and reliability, use only new, genuine...
Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way, but it is toxic. Honda utilizes lean carburetor settings and other systems to reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons.
MAINTENANCE 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 the use genuine Honda parts whenever you have maintenance done. These original design replacement parts are manufactured to the same standards as the original parts, so you can be confident of their performance.
Replace the paper filter only. Service more frequently when used in dusty areas. (2) These items should be serviced by an authorized Honda servicing dealer, unless the owner has the proper tools and is mechanically proficient. Refer to the Honda shop manual for service procedures.
MAINTENANCE ENGINE MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Change Drain the used oil while the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely. 1. Turn the’fuel valve to the OFF position to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage (see page 34). 2. Wipe the oil filler area clean, then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. 3.
@ eJ recommended range. The SAE oil viscosity and service classification are in the API label on the oil container. Honda recommends that you use API SERVICE category SH or SJ oil with the ILSAC “starburst” certification...
MAINTENANCE Air Cleaner Service Dirty air filters will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. If you operate the mower in very dusty areas, clean the air filters more often than specified in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE. Operating the engine without air filters, or with damaged filters, will allow dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear.
MAINTENANCE 5. Wipe dirt from the inside of the air cleaner housing and cover, using a moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct that leads to the carburetor. 6. Reinstall the filters and cover. Tighten the cover screw securely. Spark Plug Service REGULAR RESISTOR*...
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MAINTENANCE 2. Remove the spark plug with a SPARK PLUG WRENCH ?!a in (21 mm) spark plug wrench. 3. Inspect the spark plug. Replace it if the electrodes are worn, or if the insulator is cracked or chipped. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if you are going to reuse it.
6,000 feet (1,800 meters) with a modified carburetor may cause the engine to overheat and result in serious engine damage. For use at low altitudes, have an authorized Honda servicing dealer return the carburetor to original factory specifications.
If spark knock or pinging occurs at a steady engine speed, under normal load, change brands of gasoline. If spark knock or pinging persists, see an authorized Honda servicing dealer. p6Yiq Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging can cause engine damage.
Check that the blade starts when you push the lever forward and stops quickly when you release the lever. If the blade does not start or stop as it should, with correct cable adjustment, take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair. BLADE CONTROL...
3. Start the engine outdoors, and operate the drive clutch lever. Check that the drive clutch engages and releases properly. If the drive clutch does not operate as it should, with correct cable adjustment, take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair. 3/6 -...
If the transmission does not shift as it should, with correct cable adjustment, take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair. SHIFT LEVER...
Drive Clutch Cable Adjustment (HMA, HXA) 1. Position the control cable bands as shown. 2. Set the rear cutting height adjusters in the lowest cutting height position (see page 16). 3. Move the shift lever to the slowest position. SHIFT LEVER 4.
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Check to be sure the drive clutch lever operates properly. If the drive clutch lever does not operate properly after the cable is correctly adjusted, take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair.
3. If the choke arm does not move all the way to its stop, in either direction, take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer. Throttle cable adjustment involves related control plate adjustments.
BLADE SHARPENING: To avoid weakening the blade, or causing imbalance or poor cutting, the blade should be sharpened by trained staff at an authorized Honda servicing dealer. BLADE REPLACEMENT: Use a genuine Honda replacement blade or its equivalent. Blade Removal 1.
Blade bolt torque: 36 - 43 If you do not have a torque wrench, have an authorized Honda servicing dealer tighten the blade bolts before you use the mower. If the blade bolts are over-tightened, they could break. If the blade bolts are not tightened enough, they could loosen or come out.
Wash the bag with a garden hose, and allow it to dry completely before use; a wet bag will clog quickly. Grass Bag Replacement Replace a worn or damaged bag with a Honda replacement bag or its equivalent. Bag Removal 1.
MAINTENANCE BAlTERY CHARGING (HMA) The engine will automatically recharge the battery when the mower is operated. A plug-in charger is provided for supplemental charging when the mower is not operated frequently enough to keep the battery charged. Use the plug-in charger to recharge the battery once a month during seasons when you do not mow the lawn.
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TROUBLESHOOTING This chapter shows what to check if you have a problem with your mower. ENGINE PROBLEMS ......Engine will not start ......Lossofpower ........FUSE REPLACEMENT (HR215HMA) ....VIBRATION PROBLEMS ......MOWING AND BAGGING PROBLEMS....
Refuel with fresh refueled with bad gas. aasoline (cr. 21). 6. Take mower to an Fuel filter clogged, Replace or repair faulty authorized Honda carburetor malfunction, components as necessary. servicing dealer, or refer ignition malfunction, to shop manual. valves stuck, etc.
1 ampere. Serious damage to the electrical system or a fire can result. If frequent fuse failure occurs, it usually indicates a short circuit or an overload in the electrical system. Take the mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair.
(p. 62 - 63). by improper sharpening. Replace or repair faulty 2. Take mower to an Mechanical damage, such authorized Honda as a bent crankshaft. components as necessap servicing dealer for reoair. MOWING AND BAGGING PROBLEMS...
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This chapter explains how to protect your mower from rust and corrosion, and ensure that it will start easily when you want to use it .again......STORAGE PREPARATION Cleaning ........Engine........MowerDeck ......... Grass Bag ........Fuel ......... Adding fuel stabilizer to extend fuel storage life ..
STORAGE 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 mower’s function and appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when you use the mower again.
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STORAGE 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. While the engine is running, operate the blade control lever 4 or 5 times to expel water from the blade control mechanism.
STORAGE Fuel Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorate in storage. Old gasoline will cause hard starting, and it leaves gum deposits that clog the fuel system. If the gasoline in your mower deteriorates during storage, you may need to have the carburetor and other fuel system components, serviced or replaced.
STORAGE Draining the Fuel Tank and Carburetor 1. Remove the carburetor drain bolt with a 10 mm wrench, and drain the carburetor bowl fuel into an approved container. Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.
STORAGE Engine Cylinder Remove the spark plug (see page 53). Pour a tablespoon (5 - 10 cc) of clean engine oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter rope several times to distribute the oil in the cylinder. Reinstall the spark plug. the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt then return the Pull starter grip gently.
STORAGE Handlebar Folding The handlebar can be folded for storage or transport by loosening the handlebar locking knobs. 1. Remove the grass bag. You can place it on top of the LOWER engine, with the bag opening to LOCKING KNOBS the front.
STORAGE PLACING IN STORAGE If your mower 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.
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SPECIFICATIONS This chapter gives dimensions, capacities, and other technical information. MOWER MODELS ....... DIMENSIONS, WEIGHTS, AND CAPACITIES ..ENGINE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE ..... TRANSMISSION DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE ..MAINTENANCE ......... TUNEUP ........
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE ( Engine Model 1 GXV140Kl 4-stroke, overhead-valve, single cylinder, Engine Type forced air-cooled Displacement 1 8.2 cu in (135 cc) 1 Bore and Stroke 1 2.52 x 1.65 in (64 x 42 mm) Compression Ratio Ignition System Transistorized magneto Maximum Horsepower...
86 or higher Engine Oil SAE lOW-30, API SH or SJ See page 49. See shop manual Transmission Oil HMA & HXA: Honda hydrostatic fluid SXA: Hypoid gear oil, SAE 90 Regular: Spark Plug Type NGK - BPSES...
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION This chapter contains additional information, Honda publications available to you, and tells you how to contact us if you have a question or a warranty repair problem. HONDA PUBLICATIONS ......84 ShopManual........
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION HONDA PUBLICATIONS These publications will give you additional information for maintaining and repairing your mower. You may order them from your Honda lawn mower dealer. Shop Manual This manual covers complete maintenance and overhaul procedures. It is intended to be used by a skilled technician.
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ADDITIONAL INFOFiMATlON WARRANTY SERVICE INFORMATION Honda Power Equipment 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.
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ADDITIONAL 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.
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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 an authorized Honda servicing dealer. The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep it functioning as designed.
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INDEX Air Cleaner Inspection ....22 Description of Controls ..12 Air Cleaner Service ....51 Drive Clutch Lever: Cable Adjustment (SXA) .
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INDEX Spark Plug Recommendations & Service ......52 Warranty Service Specifications: Information ......85 Capacities .
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QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION Unleaded gasoline with pump octane rating of 86 Type or higher (page 55). Fuel Capacity 0.26 US gallons (1 .O P) SAE lOW-30, API SH or SJ (page 50) Type Engine Oil Capacity 0.63 US quarts (0.6 P) Regular: NGK - BP5ES DENS0 - WlGEP-U...