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This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the engine and should remain with the engine if resold. The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design a t any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever.
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When your engine needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda engines. Your Honda servicing dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns. Best Wishes, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
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INTRODUCTION FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY Your safety and the safety of others are very important. And using this engine safely is an important responsibility. To help you make informed decisions about safety, w e have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual.
IMPORTANT SAFETY 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 engines are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions.
ENGINE SAFETY Carbon Monoxide Hazard Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Avoid inhalation exhaust 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.
ENGINE SAFETY SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are considered permanent parts of your engine. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer for a replacement. CAUTION *APPLY A THIN FILM OIL TO...
CONTROLS & FEATURES & COMPONENT CONTROL LOCATIONS RADIATOR RESERVE TANK VENT TUBE FILLER CAP OIL DRAINPLUG CARBURETOR DRAIN TUBE RADIATOR CAP RADIATOR DRAIN PLUG...
CONTROLS & FEATURES CONTROLS Engine Switch The engine switch enables and disables the ignition system. The engine switch must be in the position for the engine to run. OFF position stops the engine. Turning the engine switch to the Turning the engine switch to the START position operates the electric starter to crank the engine.
CONTROLS & FEATURES Control Lever The control lever operates the throttle and choke. SLOW For running the engine at low or idle speed. FAST For restarting a warm engine, and for running the engine a t maximum speed. START Enriches the fuel mixture for starting cold engine.
CONTROLS & FEATURES FEATURES Engine Protection System The engine protection system automatically stops the engine to prevent damage from lack of lubrication or overheating. If there is a loss of oil pressure, which may indicate low oil level, or if the coolant becomes too hot, the engine will stop, and the alert light will come on (the engine switch will remain in the ON position).
CONTROLS & FEATURES Circuit Breaker (3A charge coil type) The circuit breaker protects the battery charging circuit. A short circuit, will or a battery connected with reverse polarity, trip the circuit breaker. The green indicator inside the circuit breaker will pop out to show that the circuit breaker has switched off.
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.
BEFORE OPERATION Check the Engine (see page 25). The engine protection Check the engine oil level system 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.
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the engine for the first time, please review IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION on page and the chapter titled BEFORE OPERA TION. Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you. Avoid any areas actions that expose you to carbon monoxide.
OPERATION STARTING THE ENGINE 1. If the fuel tank is equipped with a valve, be sure the fuel valve is in OPEN position before attempting to start the engine. 2. To start a cold engine, move the control lever to the START (CHOKE) position.
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OPERATION 3. Turn the engine switch to the START position, and hold there until1 the engine starts. If the engine fails to start within 5 seconds, release the key, and wait at least 10 seconds before operating the starter again. Using the electric starter for more than 5 seconds at a time will overheat the starter motor and can damage it.
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OPERATION 4. If the control lever has been moved to the START (CHOKE) position to start the engine, gradually move it to the FAST or SLOW position as the engine warms up. Some engine applications use remotely-mounted control rather than the engine-mounted control lever shown here.
OPERATION STOPPING THE ENGINE To stop the engine in an emergency, simply turn the engine switch to the OFF position. Under normal conditions, use the following procedure. 1. Move the control lever to the SLOW position. Some engine applications use a remotely-mounted control rather than the engine-mounted control lever shown here.
OPERATION SETTING ENGINE SPEED Position the control lever for the desired engine speed. Some engine applications use a remotely-mounted control rather than the engine-mounted control lever shown here. For engine speed recommendations, refer to the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine. FAST CONTROL LEVER...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE Good maintenance essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. 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 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...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE Valve clearance Check-adjust O(2) After every 500 Hrs. Combustion chamber Clean l o 1 Fuel filter Clean Replace Fuel tank (4) Clean Every year (2) Fuel tube Check Every 2 years (Replace necessary) (2) Emission-related items.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE FUEL RECOMMENDATIONS rating of 86 or higher. Use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane These engines are certified to operate on unleaded gasoline. Unleaded gasoline produces fewer engine and spark plug deposits and extends exhaust system life. Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and in a level position. Remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe clean. 2. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE ENGINE OIL 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 filler cap/dipstick and the drain plug. 2.Allow the used oil to drain completely, then reinstall the drain plug, and tighten it securely.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE OIL FILTER CHANGE 1. Drain the engine oil, and retighten the drain plug securely (see page 26). 2. Remove the oil filter, and drain the oil into a suitable container. Discard the used oil filter. 3.Clean the filter mounting base, and coat the gasket of the new oil filter with clean engine oil.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS O i l i s a m a j o r f a c t o r a f f e c t i n g p e r f o r m a n c e a n d s e r v i c e l i f e . U s e oil.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE AIR FILTER INSPECTION Remove the two wing nuts, and remove the air cleaner cover. Check the filter elements to be sure they are clean and in good condition. If the filter elements are dirty, clean or replace them as described on page 30.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE AIR CLEANER SERVICE 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 often than specified in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE 4. Clean the air filter elements if they are to be reused. Paper filter element: Tap the filter element several times on a hard surface to remove dirt, or blow compressed air [not exceeding 30 psi (207kPa, 2.1 kgf/cm*)] through the filter element from the inside.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE RADIATOR SCREEN INSPECTION the engine has been running, the radiator will be very hot. Allow the radiator to cool before servicing. Check the radiator screen to be sure it is clean and in good condition. If the radiator screen is dirty or clogged, clean it as described on page RADIATOR RADIATOR SCREEN...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE RADIATOR SCREEN AND RADIATOR CORE SERVICE If the engine has been running, the radiator will be very hot. Allow the radiator to cool before servicing. 1. Remove the four 6 m m flange bolts from the radiator screen, and remove the screen.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL CHECK The engine protection system will automatically stop the engine if the coolant becomes excessively hot, which may occur if the coolant level is low. NOTICE If the cooling system is empty, or the coolant level is lower than the temperature sensor in the radiator, the engine protection system will not stop the engine, and the temperature warning light will not come on.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE If there is no coolant in the reserve tank, the cooling system should be checked for leaks and repaired if necessary. Coolant must then be added to the radiator and the reserve tank. Wait untill the engine is cool. Without pressing down on the cap, turn it counterclockwise untill it stops.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE is cool. If the engine Replace coolant while the engine has been running, wait until the engine is cool before removing the radiator cap or drain plug. Removing the radiator cap or drain plug while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE 5. Loosen the air-bleed bolt at the side of the cylinder AIR-BLEED BOLT head. This will allow air to escape when filling the cooling system. 6 . P o u r c o o l a n t i n t o t h e radiator untill the coolant reaches level...
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE COOLANT RECOMMENDATIONS Use a high-quality ethylene glycol antifreeze that is specifically formulated for aluminum engines. Mix the antifreeze with low-mineral drinking water or distilled water. 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water is recommended for most temperatures, and it provides good corrosion protection.
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE SPARK PLUG SERVICE Recommended spark plugs: BPR4HS(NGK) NOTICE Incorrect spark plugs can cause engine damage. dirt from around 1. Disconnect the spark plug caps, and remove any the spark plug area. 2. Remove the spark plugs with a 13/16-inch spark plug wrench. SPARK PLUG CAP 3.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE 6.After each spark plug seats, tighten with a 13/16-inch spark plug wrench compress the washer. If reinstalling the used spark plugs, tighten 1/8-1/4 turn after each spark plug seats. If installing new spark plugs, tighten 1/2 turn after each spark plug seats.
SERVICING YOUR HONDA ENGINE SPARK ARRESTER SERVICE (optional equipment) Your engine is not factory-equipped with a spark arrester. 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.
HELPFUL TIPS & 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 to start easier when you use it again.
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HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS 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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HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS DRAINING THE FUEL TANK AND CARBURETOR 1. Disconnect the fuel line to the engine, and drain the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container. If the fuel tank is equipped with a valve, turn the fuel valve to the OPEN or position to enable draining.
HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS Engine Oil 1. Change the engine oil (see page 26). 2. Remove the spark plugs (see page 39). 3. Pour a tablespoon (5-10 cc) of clean engine oil into the cylinders. 4. Crank the engine serveral revolutions to distribute the oil. 5.
HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS Position the equipment so the engine is level. 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.
HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS TRANSPORTING If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before loading the engine-powered equipment on the transport vehicle. A hot engine and exhaust system can burn you and can ignite some materials.
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE WILL NOT Possible Cause Correction START 1. Electric Battery discharged. Recharge battery. starting: Check Fuse burnt out. Replace fuse (p. 51). battery and fuse. 2. Check control Fuel valve OFF. Move lever to ON. positions.
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE LACKS Possible Cause Correction POWER Check air filter. Filter elements Clean or replace filter (p. 30) clogged. elements. 2. Check fuel Bad fuel; engine Drain fuel tank and stored without treating carburetor (p. 44). or draining gasoline, Refuel with fresh or refueled with bad...
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE PROTECTION SYSTEM ACTIVATED the alert light comes on, this means engine protection ALERT system been activated. LIGHT The engine protection system automatically stops the engine to prevent damage from lack of lubrication or overheating. The engine will not run if the oil ENGINE...
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS FUSE REPLACEMENT The electric starter relay circuit and battery charging circuit are protected by a fuse. If the fuse burns out, the electric starter will not operate. SPECIFIED FUSE: 15A (10A charge coil type) 5A (3A charge coil type) 1.
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TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS SPARE FUSE FUSE BOX Frequent fuse failure usually indicates a short circuit or an overload in the electrical system. If the fuse burns out frequently, take the engine to a servicing Honda dealer for repair.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION TECHNICAL INFORMATION Serial Number Location .SERIAL NUMBER AND ENGINE TYPE Record the engine serial number in the space below. You will need this serial number when ordering parts, and when making technical or warranty inquires (see page 64). Engine serial number:...
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Battery Connections for Electric Starter Use a 12-volt battery with an ampere-hour rating of at least 8 Ah. Be careful not to connect the battery in reverse polarity, as this will short circuit the battery charging system. Always connect the positive battery cable to the battery terminal before connecting the ( + )
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 plugs 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.
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. If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.
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 important because, under certain conditions, they react to form photochemical smog when subjected to sunlight. Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way, but it is toxic.
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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 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 is applied to engines certified to an emission durability time period 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 CONSUMER INFORMATION Honda Publications will give you additional information for These publications 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 a skilled technician.
If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact the Honda Power Equipment Customer Relations Office. You can write to: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Power Equipment Division Customer Relations Office 4900 Marconi Drive Alpharetta, Georgia 30005-8847...