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Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it anytime, and make sure the manual stays with the mower if you sell it. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the lawn mower and should remain with the mower if resold. The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing.
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INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your selection of a Honda lawn mower! We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest lawn mowers on the market. We want to help you get the best results from your new mower and to operate it safely.
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Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining a lawn mower. You must use your own good judgment. You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including: Safety Labels —...
Turn to the beginning of each chapter for a complete list of subjects. MOWER SAFETY....... . . 5 Important information about some specific hazards, and what you can do to prevent injury.
This chapter explains what you need to know to operate your mower safely. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ....6 Avoid Rotating Blades......6 Clear Mowing Area .
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, hands, toes, or feet.
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.
CONTROLS COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION GRASS BAG OIL FILLER CAP HR215K1HMA: Manual & electric starting; self-propelled; hydrostatic transmission HR215K1HXA: Manual starting; self-propelled; hydrostatic transmission HR215K1SXA: Manual starting; self-propelled; 3 speed transmission HANDLEBAR DISCHARGE GUARD MUFFLER MOWER DECK FUEL TANK CAP RECOIL STARTER...
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ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER (on back of engine) SPARK PLUG CAP CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVERS Record the frame and engine serial numbers in the space below. You will need these serial numbers when ordering parts and when making technical or warranty inquiries (see page 85). Frame serial number: MZAM –...
FAST – – – For restarting a warm engine and for mowing. SLOW – – – For idling the engine. STOP – – – For stopping the engine. (On HR215HMA, turn the engine switch OFF to stop the engine). THROTTLE LEVER...
Engine Switch (HMA) START ––– Operates the electric starter. ON –––––– Running position (the engine switch must be in the ON position to use the recoil starter). OFF ––––– Stops the engine. ELECTRIQUE DEMARRAGE STARTER ELECTRIC CONTROLS START ENGINE START MARCHE ARRET SWITCH...
CONTROLS Blade Control Lever The blade control lever starts and stops blade rotation. BLADE CONTROL LEVER Drive Clutch Lever The drive clutch lever engages and disengages the transmission that drives the rear wheels. BLADE CONTROL LEVER BUTTON DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER...
3 (fast)––––– For maximum self-propelled speed in large, open areas and for transport. SHIFT LEVER (SXA) HR215HMA & HR215HXA SLOW ––– For mowing thick grass or maneuvering in small areas. FAST –––– For maximum self-propelled speed in large, open areas, and for transport SHIFT LEVER (HMA &...
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 LEVER There is an adjustment lever on each wheel. ADJUSTMENT LEVERS...
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 ......18 Objects .
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.
CHECK YOUR MOWER Blade 1. Move the throttle lever to the STOP postion (see page 12). 2. On HR215HMA, turn the key to the OFF position (see page 13). 3. Move the fuel valve to the OFF position (see page 12).
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.
Fuel Fuel tank capacity: 0.26 US gal (1.0 ) 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.
BEFORE OPERATION 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...
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.
BEFORE OPERATION 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. ADJUSTMENT LEVERS To adjust cutting height, pull each adjustment lever toward the wheel, and move it into another notch.
OPERATION MOWING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the mower for the first time, please review the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION beginning on page 6 and the previous chapter, titled BEFORE OPERATION. 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.
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. 2.
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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 start the engine with the recoil starter. ELECTRIC STARTING...
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. Do not try to increase the preset engine speed, the blade could fracture and come apart.
BUTTON 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 DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER faster as you push the drive clutch lever forward.
FAST To avoid incomplete gear engagement, be sure the shift lever is centered in one of the three detent positions. HR215HMA & HR215HXA SHIFT LEVER Use the lower speed range for SLOW mulching or bagging and the higher speed range for transporting.
OPERATION STOPPING THE ENGINE 1. Release the drive clutch lever and blade control lever. BLADE CONTROL LEVER 2. Move the throttle lever to the STOP position and on HR215HMA models turn the engine switch to the OFF postion. STOP THROTTLE LEVER 3.
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 to 1 inch above their recommended height. Cutting Height Consult a local nursery or lawn and garden center for cutting height recommendations and LONG ENOUGH advice about specific types of 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. If the lawn has an irregular shape, or many obstacles, divide it into sections where you can use the recommended mowing pattern.
A hot engine and exhaust system can burn you and can ignite some materials. 1. Remove the grass bag. 2. Move the throttle lever to the STOP position, and on HR215HMA models turn the engine switch to the OFF postion. STOP 3.
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.
MAINTENANCE THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution. Improper maintenance, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
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.
MAINTENANCE 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.
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.
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. Place a suitable container next to the mower to catch the used oil, then tilt the mower on its...
MAINTENANCE After changing the engine oil, and before starting the engine, check the oil level with the mower on a level surface: a. Wipe the dipstick clean. b. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
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. NOTICE 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 RECOMMENDED SPARK PLUGS DENSO...
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2. Remove the spark plug with a 13/16 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.
MAINTENANCE Carburetor Adjustment 1. Start the engine outdoors, and allow it to warm up to normal operating temperature. 2. Set the throttle lever in the SLOW position. 3. Turn the throttle stop screw to obtain the standard idle speed. Standard idle speed: 2,100 150 rpm Carburetor Modification for High Altitude Operation...
MAINTENANCE Fuel Recommendations Use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. This engine is 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. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
MAINTENANCE CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENTS Blade Control Cable Adjustment Measure free play at the top of the lever, while holding the button down. Free play should be necessary: 1. Loosen the lock nuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required.
Drive Clutch Cable Adjustment (SXA) Measure free play at the top of the lever, as shown. Free play should & (5 ~ 10 mm). If adjustment is necessary: 1. Loosen the lock nuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required.
MAINTENANCE Shift Cable Adjustment (SXA) Shift cable adjustment is necessary if the shift lever does not operate properly or does not align with the numbers beside the lever. With the shift lever in 2nd speed, check that the lever, throughout its free-play range, is well-centered on the number “2"...
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. 4. Push the drive clutch lever all the way forward, and hold it against the handlebar.
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MAINTENANCE 5. While holding the drive clutch lever all the way forward, look through the clutch cable grommet in the mower deck, and check the position of the control arm. The center of the notch on the control arm should align with the index mark on the transmission case.
THROTTLE CABLE INSPECTION Throttle cable adjustment is necessary if the throttle lever does not operate the choke properly. You can inspect choke operation by observing the movement of the choke arm, which is located on top of the carburetor. 1. Move the throttle lever to the CHOKE position.
MAINTENANCE BLADE REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION If you remove the blade for sharpening or replacement, you will need a torque wrench for installation. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands. 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 Installation 1. Clean dirt and grass from around the blade mounting area. 2. Align the two holes in the blade holder with the two raised bosses in the blade control assembly (see page 62). 3. Hold the blade holder against the blade control assembly, and install the blade using the two blade bolts as shown.
MAINTENANCE GRASS BAG CLEANING AND REPLACEMENT Grass Bag Cleaning 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.
BATTERY 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.
FUSE REPLACEMENT (HR215HMA) The electric starter relay circuit and battery charging circuit are protected by a 1 ampere fuse. If the fuse burns out, the electric starter will not operate. The engine can be started manually if the fuse burns out, but running the engine will not charge the battery.
TROUBLESHOOTING VIBRATION PROBLEMS Excessive Vibration MOWING AND BAGGING PROBLEMS Poor Cut Quality or Poor Mowing/Bagging Performance Possible Cause Possible Cause Correction Correction...
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 ..... . . 72 Cleaning .
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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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.
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. Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt then return the starter grip gently.
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 engine, with the bag opening to the front. 2. Loosen the lower handlebar locking knobs.
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.
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 Shop Manual.
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.
When you write or call, please give us this information: Model and serial numbers (see page 11) Name of the dealer who sold the lawn mower to you Name and address of the dealer who services your lawn mower Date of purchase...
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.
SPARK ARRESTER SERVICE (optional equipment) The engine in your lawn mower 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 an authorized Honda servicing dealer.