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The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State defects or other reproductive harm.
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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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You will also see other important messages that are preceded by the word NOTICE. This word means: NOTICE Your lawn mower or other property can be damaged if you don’t follow instructions. The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your lawn mower, other property, or the environment.
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 Avoid Rotating Blades ... Clear Mowing Area ... Keep Shields in Place ... Refuel with Care..Wear Protective Clothing..Turn Engine Off When Not Mowing..MESSAGE TO PARENTS ...
MOWER SAFETY IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Most accidents with walk-behind 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,...
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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 an authorized Honda dealer for a replacement.
This chapter shows the locations of controls and other important parts of your mower, and it tells you how the controls work. COMPONENT DESCRIPTION Throttle Lever..Flywheel Brake Lever ... Drive Clutch Lever (SDA)..Shift Lever (SDA) Cutting Height Adjustment Levers..IDENTIFICATION OF CONTROLS.
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COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION HANDLEBAR RECOIL STARTER GRIP GRASS BAG (HRB215) REAR CUTTING ADJUSTMENT LEVER OIL FILLER CAP’ HRB215PDA: Manually propelled, high-lift blade, and grass bag. HRB215SDA: Self-propelled, HRM215PDA: Manually HRM215SDA: Self-propelled, mYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER CLUTCHLEVER DISCHARGE MOWER DECK’ high-lift blade, and grass bag.
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ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER (on back of engine) >> FRONT &mlNG 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 77). Frame serial number: Engine serial number: SHIFT LEVER...
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CONTROLS DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS Throttle Lever CHOKE -- ‘r, FAST --- SLOW--- - - - - - - FUEL VALVE For starting a cold engine. For restarting a warm engine and for mowing. For idling the engine. For closing the fuel valve (releasing the flywheel brake lever turns off the engine).
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Flywheel Brake Lever This lever is connected to the engine flywheel brake and the ignition switch. The engine will not start unless this lever is pulled back. Drive Clutch Lever (SDA) The drive clutch lever engages and disengages the transmission that drives the rear wheels.
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CONTROLS Shift Lever (SDA) The shift lever selects and controls the mower’s drive speed. 1 (SLOW) - For mowing thick grass or maneuvering 2 (FAST)- For maximum self-propelled speed in large, open areas, and for transport. Cutting Height Adjustment There are six settings to choose from, as shown in the illustration. The cutting height figures are approximate.
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(s) and thrown is a potential hazard to you and others. Look for things like stones, sticks, bones, and wire.
A worn or damaged blade can break, causing blade pieces to be thrown from the mower. When a blade needs sharpening or replacement take the lawn mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer. Or, if you have a torque wrench, you can remove and install a blade yourself (see pages 56 - 57).
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: Refuel in a well-ventilated engine has been running, allow it to cool. Refer to page 51 for fuel recommendations and page 78 for information about oxygenated fuels. Remove the fuel tank cap and check the fuel level. Refill the tank if the fuel level is low.
Air Cleaner Inspection Check that the air filters are clean and in good condition. Ditty air filters will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. Refer to page 47 for air cleaner service. AIR CLEANER HOUSING PAPER FILTER FOAM FILTER COVER KNOB...
Handlebar Height Adjustment Adjust handlebar height for a comfortable operating position. 1. Loosen the handlebar locking knobs. 2. Spread the lower ends of the handlebars to release the locating pins. 3. Move the handlebar up or down, so the locating pins engage other holes on the handlebar mounting brackets.
BEFORE OPERATION Grass Bag (HRB215) 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.
Mulching Plug (HRM215) The mulching plug contours the mower deck for efficient mulching. You can quickly remove the plug to install a grass bag or side-discharge chute, which are available as optional equipment. Raise the discharge guard to remove or install the mulching plug.
ARE YOU Ready to Mow? Be sure to wear protective clothing. Long pants and eye protection can lower your risk of injury from thrown objects. Wear footwear that protects your feet and won’t let you slip if you mow on slopes or uneven ground.
This chapter tells you how to operate the mower safely and effectively. MOWING PRECAUTIONS STARTING THE ENGINE ... OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING ... ThrottleLever Flywheel Brake Lever ... Drive Clutch Lever (SDA)..Shift Lever (SDA) STOPPING THE ENGINE..SAFE MOWING PRACTICES.
OPERATION MOWING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the mower for the first time, please review the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION 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.
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3. Pull back on the flywheel brake lever back and hold it against the handlebar. 4. Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently. Keep your hands and feet away from the mower deck at all times when starting and running the engine.
OPERATING THE CONTROLS 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.
Drive Clutch Lever (SDA) Pull the drive clutch lever up to propel the mower forward. Release the drive clutch lever to stop the mower’s forward movement. Always release the drive clutch lever before starting the engine. If the drive clutch is engaged, the mower will move forward when you operate the starter.
OPERATION STOPPING THE ENGINE 1. Release the flywheel brake lever and the drive clutch lever (SDA). DRIVE CLUTCH FLYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER 2. Move the throttle lever to the FUEL VALVE OFF position. THROlTLE LEVER...
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.
MOWING TIPS When to Mow Most grasses should be mowed when they have grown l/z to 1 inch above their recommended height. ’ More frequent mowing is required for mulching than for bagging. For best results, you may need to mow the lawn twice a week during the growing season.
OPERATION Blade Speed The blade(s) 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(s) trying to cut too much grass. Mow a narrower swath, move the mower slower, or raise the cutting height.
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. Mulching Use a counterclockwise pattern.
TRANSPORTING This chapter explains how to load and carry your mower safely....... 38 BEFORE LOADING .
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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. Remove the grass bag.
This chapter explains when and how to perform routine inspection, service, and adjustments for do-it-yourself 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. THE IMPORTANCE MAINTENANCE Safety Precautions.
MAINTENANCE THE IMPORTANCE Good maintenance operation. It will also help reduce air pollution. To help you properly care for your mower, the following pages include a maintenance schedule, routine inspection procedures, and simple maintenance procedures using basic hand tools. 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...
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. 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 Source of Emissions The combustion process produces carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. nitrogen is very important because, under certain conditions, they react to form photochemical 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.
PROPER MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITY Replacement Parts The emission control systems on your new Honda engine were designed, built, and certified to conform with the California regulations. Honda recommends only the use of new, genuine Honda parts or their equivalent. The use of other replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of your emission control system.
ENGINE MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Change Drain the used oil while the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely. 1. Put the throttle lever in the FUEL VALVE OFF position to shut off the fuel valve. This will reduce the possibility of fuel leakage (see page 30).
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MAINTENANCE 1 NOTICE Using nondetergent using 2-stroke oil can damage the engine. SAE 1 OW-30 is recommended for general use. Other viscosities shown in the chart (previous page) may be used when the average temperature in your area is within the indicated range. 5.
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. 1 NOTICE Operating the engine without air filters, or 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 CHAMPION...
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2. Remove the spark plug with a 21 mm (13/1~ in) 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 Start the engine oufdoors, and allow it to warm up to normal operating temperature. Set the throttle lever in the SLOW position. Turn the throttle stop screw to obtain the standard idle speed. Standard idle speed: 2,100 fl50 Carburetor Modification At high altitude,...
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 Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
MAINTENANCE CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENTS Flywheel Brake Cable Adjustment Measure free play at the top of the lever. Free play should be 5-15 mm ‘46 in). If adjustment is necessary: (+I6 1. Loosen the locknuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required.
Drive Clutch Cable Adjustment Measure free play at the top of the lever, as shown. Free play should be 1 - 4 mm (‘46 - 3/~6 in). If adjustment is necessary: 1. Loosen the lock nuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required.
Shift Cable Adjustment Shift cable adjustment is necessary if the shift lever does not operate smoothly or does not shift properly into a gear. With the transmission and release it; the lever should be approximately number “1” on the lever cover. If adjustment is necessary: 1.
THROlTLE 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.
BLADE REMOVAL If you remove the blade(s) for sharpening or replacement, you will need a torque wrench for installation. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands. BLADE SHARPENING: imbalance or poor cutting, the blade(s) should be sharpened by trained staff at an authorized Honda servicing dealer. BLADE REPLACEMENT: their equivalent.
Blade Installation 1. Clean dirt and grass from around the blade mounting area. 2. Install the blade(s) using the two blade bolts and special washers as shown. Be sure to install the special washers with the concave side toward the blade(s) and the convex side (marked OUT) toward the bolt heads.
GRASS BAG CLEANING 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.
This chapter shows what to check if you have a problem with your mower. ENGINE PROBLEMS Engine will not start ... Lossofpower VIBRATION PROBLEMS MOWING AND BAGGING PROBLEMS ... TROUBLESHOOTING...
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TROUBLESHOOTING ENGINE PROBLEMS Engine Will Not Start 1. Check throttle lever position. 2. Check fuel. 3. Remove and inspect spark plug. 4. Take mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer, or refer to shop manual. Loss of Power 1. Check throttle position. 2.
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VIBRATION PROBLEMS Excessive Vibration 1. Check mower deck and blade(s). 2. Take mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for repair. MOWING AND BAGGING Poor Cut Quality or Boor Mowing/Bagging Performance 1. Check that the throttle lever is in the FAST position.
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 (HRB215)..Fuel ... Adding fuel stabilizer to extend fuel storage life ... Draining the Fuel Tank and Carburetor.
Cleaning 1. Wash the lawn mower, including the underside of the mower deck. Engine Wash the engine by hand, and be careful to prevent water from entering the air cleaner.
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4. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. 5. After the lawn mower is clean and dry, touch up any damaged paint, and coat other areas that may rust with a light film of oil.
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, the carburetor bowl fuel into an approved container. Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive and you can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
STORAGE Engine Cylinder Remove the spark plug (see page 49). 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, if so equipped. You can place it on top of the engine, with the bag opening to the front. 2.
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 appliance that operates with a flame, such as a furnace, water heater, or clothes dryer.
This chapter gives dimensions, capacities, and other technical information. MOWERMODELS DIMENSION, WEIGHTS, AND CAPACITIES. ENGINE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE TRANSMISSION MAINTENANCE TUNEUP SPECIFICATIONS DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE...
ENGINE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE Engine Model Engine Type Displacement Bore and Stroke Compression Ratio Ignition System Maximum Horsepower I--- Maximum Torque TRANSMISSION Transmission Type Mower Ground Speed (with engine at 3,300 rpm) 1 GXV140Kl Cstroke, overhead-valve, forced air-cooled 135 cc (6.2 cu in) 64 x 42 mm (2.52 x 1.65 in) 3.7 kW (5.0 bhp) at 3,600 rpm I- 10.3 N-m (7.6 ft-lb) at 2,700 rpm...
ADDITIONAL 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 ShopManual... Parts Catalog ........76 CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION..
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 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 it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.
SPARK ARRESTER Your lawn mower engine is not factory-equipped 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.