Owner’s Manual Rotary Mower HRX217TDA See page 57 for instructions on setting up your Lawn Mower. EM3 POM53619-A 31VH7001 00X31-VH7-0010 Printed on Recycled Paper IPC XXXXX.2006.04 PRINTED IN U.S.A. © 2003-2006 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Keep this owner’s manual handy, so you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a permanent part of the lawn mower and should remain with the lawn mower if resold. The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever.
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. This manual contains the information on how to do that; please read it carefully. As you read this manual, you will find information preceded by a NOTICE symbol.
INTRODUCTION A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY Your safety, and the safety of others, is 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. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining a lawn mower.
CONTENTS LAWN MOWER SAFETY ..............................................................................4 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ...................................................4 IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS .................................................5 SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS .................................................................6 CONTROLS & FEATURES ...........................................................................7 COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS ..........................
LAWN 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. Keep away from the mower deck whenever the engine is running.
LAWN MOWER SAFETY 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 child operate this lawn mower. Lawn mowers are tools, not toys. As with any equipment, bad judgments can result in serious injuries. You can help prevent accidents by making good decisions about if, when, and how your child operates this equipment.
LAWN MOWER SAFETY SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS These labels warn you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read them carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer for a replacement. CAUTION UNDER NORMAL USAGE, THIS BAG MATERIAL IS SUBJECT TO DETERIORATION AND WEAR, AND SHOULD BE CHECKED FREQUENTLY FOR BAG REPLACEMENT. THIS BAG CONFORMS TO A.N.S.I. STANDARD B71.1, ANY REPLACEMENT MUST MEET THIS STANDARD.
CONTROLS & FEATURES COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS HANDLEBAR SHIFT LEVER THROTTLE LEVER DISCHARGE GUARD FUEL TANK CAP FLYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER GRASS BAG REAR CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER (2) OIL FILLER CAP MUFFLER DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER RECOIL STARTER GRIP SPARK PLUG CAP HANDLEBAR LOCKING KNOB (2) CARBURETOR FUEL VALVE FRONT CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVERS CLIP DIRECTOR® KNOB AIR CLEANER 7
CONTROLS & FEATURES DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS Fuel Valve The fuel valve opens and closes the fuel passage from the fuel tank to the carburetor. OFF FUEL VALVE ON Throttle Lever The throttle lever controls engine speed and opens and closes the choke. THROTTLE LEVER 8 CHOKE Closes the choke; use when starting a cold engine. FAST For restarting a warm engine and for mowing. SLOW For idling the engine.
CONTROLS & FEATURES 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 pushed forward. FLYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER Drive Clutch Lever The drive clutch lever engages and disengages the transmission that drives the rear wheels.
CONTROLS & FEATURES Shift Lever The shift lever selects and controls the mower’s drive speed. 1 (slow) For mowing thick grass or maneuvering in small areas. 1 (SLOW) 2 (MEDIUM) 2 (medium) For intermediate self-propelled mowing speed. 3 (fast) For maximum self-propelled transport speed. 3 (FAST) SHIFT LEVER Cutting Height Adjustment Levers Each wheel of the mower can be adjusted to one of seven settings. The cutting height figures are approximate.
BEFORE OPERATION ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED? Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk of injury. Knowledge Read and understand this manual. Know what the controls do and how to operate them. Familiarize yourself with the lawn mower and its operation before you begin using it. Know how to quickly shut off the lawn mower in case of an emergency.
BEFORE OPERATION Check the General Condition of the Lawn Mower • • • • • Look around and underneath the lawn mower for signs of oil or gasoline leaks. Look for signs of damage. Check each control for proper operation. Check the blades for wear. Replace as necessary (page 32). Check that the blade bolts are tight (page 34). Check that all nuts, bolts, screws are tightened. Check the Engine • • Check the air cleaner (page 38) and oil level (page 36). Check the fuel level (page 46).
BEFORE OPERATION GET THE MOWER READY Handlebar Height Adjustment 1. Loosen the handlebar locking knobs (2). 2. Spread the lower ends of the handlebar to release the locating pins and move the handlebar up or down so the locating pins engage other holes on the handlebar mounting brackets. 3. Tighten the handlebar locking knobs securely.
BEFORE OPERATION Clip Direction Clip Director® Knob Adjustment Adjust the Clip Director knob in any one of ten positions to achieve the desired mowing results. To adjust the Clip Director knob, pull the knob downward and towards the rear of the mower. The knob adjusts a sliding door from the fully open BAG position to the fully closed MULCH position (see the following page).
BEFORE OPERATION Sliding Door Position The sliding door can be positioned to produce different mowing results. If the preferred sliding door position is unknown, install the grass bag (page 17) and begin mowing with the Clip Director knob all the way to the BAG position. Check the appearance of the lawn. As the knob is moved towards the MULCH position, more grass will be recycled back into the lawn. Adjust the Clip Director knob until the desired result is achieved.
BEFORE OPERATION Rear Discharge To discharge clippings to the rear, remove the grass bag and position the Clip Director knob in the BAG range. CLIP DIRECTOR KNOB Maximum rear discharge will occur when the Clip Director knob is all the way to the left (BAG) position. As the Clip Director knob is moved toward the right (MULCH) position, less grass will be discharged though the rear discharge guard.
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.
BEFORE OPERATION Cutting Height Move all four adjustment levers to the same 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. Then readjust cutting height if necessary.
OPERATION MOWING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the mower for the first time, please review IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (page 4) and BEFORE OPERATION (page 11). 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. For your safety, avoid starting or operating the engine in an enclosed area such as a garage.
OPERATION 3. Release the drive clutch lever. If the drive clutch lever is engaged, the mower will move forward when you operate the starter. 4. Push forward on the flywheel brake lever and hold it against the handlebar. 5. Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently. Keep you hands and feet away from the mower deck at all times when starting and running the engine.
OPERATION OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING Throttle Lever For best cut quality, always mow with the throttle lever in the FAST position. When the blades rotate 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. Flywheel Brake Lever The lever must be pushed forward against the handlebar to start the engine.
OPERATION Drive Clutch Lever Push the drive clutch lever forward and hold it against the handlebar to propel the mower forward. FLYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER 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. Move the throttle lever to the SLOW position. SLOW THROTTLE LEVER 2. Release the flywheel brake lever and the drive clutch lever. FLYWHEEL BRAKE LEVER DRIVE CLUTCH LEVER 3. When the mower is not in use, turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.
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. If stuck, do not kick or shove the mower with your foot. Use the handlebar to control the mower. WARNING The blades are sharp and spin at high speed. Spinning blades can cut you severely and can amputate fingers and toes.
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. Be careful when mowing over obstacles embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving, edging, raised tree roots, etc. Avoid anything that sticks up above the surface of the lawn.
OPERATION MOWING TIPS When to Mow Most grasses should be mowed when they have grown 1/2 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. Cutting Height Consult a local nursery or lawn and garden center for cutting height recommendations and advice about specific types of grasses and growing conditions in your area.
OPERATION Blade Sharpness A sharp blade cuts cleanly. A dull blade tears the grass, leaving shredded ends that turn brown. When your blade doesn’t cut cleanly anymore, have it sharpened or replaced. Dry Grass If the ground is too dry, mowing will stir up a lot of dust. Besides being unpleasant to work in, too much dust will clog the air filter. If dust is a problem, water your lawn the day before mowing. Mow when the grass is dry to your touch, but the soil is still moist.
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. Mulching Use a counterclockwise mowing pattern when the Clip Director knob is in the full MULCH position. If the lawn has an irregular shape, or many obstacles, divide it into sections where you can use counterclockwise mowing patterns.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution. WARNING 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.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER 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. WARNING 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.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE REGULAR SERVICE PERIOD ITEM Blades Grass bag Engine oil Perform at every indicated interval Inspect condition Every 50 hours Every Every See 100 150 page hours hours O 32 Check bolt torque O 34 Check O 35 Check O Change Check Air cleaner First Before First month each 25 or 5 use hours hours Clean 36 O O (1) 37 O (1) 38 O O (1) Replace filter Spark plug O Check-Adjust O Replace O Spark arrester Clean-Inspect (optional equipment)
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER BLADES Inspection 1. Move the fuel valve to the OFF position (page 8) and disconnect the spark plug cap from the spark plug (page 39). 2. Tilt the mower to the right, so the air filter side is up. This will help to prevent fuel leakage and hard starting. 3. Inspect the blades for wear and damage. BLADE BOLTS BLADES WARNING A worn, cracked, or damaged blade can break, and pieces of the damaged blade can become dangerous projectiles. Thrown objects can cause serious injury.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Blade Removal and Installation If you remove the blades 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 blades, or causing imbalance or poor cutting, the blades should be sharpened by trained staff at an authorized Honda servicing dealer. BLADE REPLACEMENT: Use genuine Honda replacement blades or their equivalent (page 64). Blade Removal 1. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Blade Installation 1. Clean dirt and grass from around the blade mounting area. 2. Install the blades using the two blade bolts and special washers as shown. Be sure to install the special washers with the concave side toward the blades and the convex side toward the bolts. The blade bolts and washers are specially designed for this application. When replacing bolts and washers, use only genuine Honda replacement parts. 3. Tighten the blade bolts with a torque wrench.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER 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 (page 64). Bag Removal 1. Unclip the plastic edges of the bag from the frame. 2. Remove the bag from the frame. BAG PLASTIC EDGE FRAME Bag Installation 1. Insert the bag frame into the bag, as shown. 2.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE MAINTENANCE Engine Oil Level Check 1. Unscrew and remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean. 2. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick. 3. If the oil level is low, add oil to reach the upper limit mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill. If the engine is overfilled, the excess oil may get transferred to the air cleaner housing and air cleaner filter.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Engine Oil Change Drain the used oil while the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely. 1. Turn the fuel valve OFF (page 8). This will reduce the possibility of fuel leakage. 2. Wipe the oil filler area clean, then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. 3. Place a suitable container next to the mower to catch the used oil, then tilt the mower on its right side. The used oil will drain through the filler neck. Allow the oil to drain completely.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Air Cleaner Service A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. If you operate the mower in very dusty areas, clean the air filter more often than specified in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (page 31). 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 by the Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 70).
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Spark Plug Service RECOMMENDED SPARK PLUGS REGULAR RESISTOR* NGK BP6ES BPR6ES DENSO W20EP-U W20EPR-U *Resistor spark plugs reduce interference with radio and TV reception. 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 spark plug cap and remove any dirt from around the spark plug area. SPARK PLUG SPARK PLUG CAP 2.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER 4. Measure the spark plug electrode gap with a suitable gauge. The gap should be 0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.7 ~ 0.8 mm). Correct the gap, if necessary, by carefully bending the side electrode. 5. Install the spark plug carefully, 0.028 ~ 0.031 in by hand, to avoid (0.7 ~ 0.8 mm) cross-threading. 6. After the spark plug seats, tighten with a 13/16 in (21 mm) spark plug wrench to compress SEALING the washer.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Spark Arrester Service (optional equipment) Your lawn mower 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. An optional USDA approved 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. 1.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENTS Flywheel Brake Cable Adjustment Measure free play at the top of the flywheel brake lever. Free play should be 1-3/16 ~ 1-3/8 in (30 ~ 35 mm). If adjustment is necessary: 1. Loosen the lock nuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required. 2. Tighten the lock nuts and recheck free play. 3. Start the engine outdoors. Move the throttle to FAST. Release the flywheel brake lever; the engine should stop quickly.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Drive Clutch Cable Adjustment Measure free play at the top of the lever, as shown. Free play should be 1/16 ~ 3/16 in (1 ~ 5 mm). If adjustment is necessary: 1. Loosen the lock nuts with a 10 mm wrench, and move the adjuster up or down as required. 2. Tighten the lock nuts and recheck free play. 3. Start the engine outdoors, and operate the drive clutch lever. Check that the drive clutch engages and releases properly.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Shift Cable Adjustment Shift cable adjustment is necessary if the shift lever will not smoothly select each gear. 1. Starting from 3rd gear, cycle the shift lever through all three gears and listen for the transmission detent click sound for each gear. 2. From 3rd gear, move the shift lever back to 2nd then to the 1st gear position and listen for the 1st gear transmission detent click.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER THROTTLE CABLE INSPECTION Throttle cable adjustment is necessary if the throttle lever does not operate the choke properly. Perform the inspection and adjustment with the engine stopped. 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 FAST position. 2. Remove the air cleaner cover (page 38). FAST THROTTLE LEVER 3.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER FUEL SYSTEM Refueling Fuel tank capacity: 0.29 US gal (1.1 l) If the fuel level is low, refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. If the engine has been running, allow it to cool first. To refuel, remove the fuel tank cap, and fill the tank with gasoline to the bottom of the filler neck. Refuel carefully to avoid spilling fuel. Do not overfill. There should be no fuel in the filler neck. After refueling, tighten the fuel tank cap securely.
SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER Fuel Recommendations Use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. 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.
STORAGE PREPARING FOR STORAGE 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 lawn mower’s function and appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when you use the lawn mower again. 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.
STORAGE 3. With the mower in an upright position, open the Clip Director, start the engine outdoors, and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature to evaporate any water remaining on the engine. 4. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. 5. After the lawn mower is clean and dry, touch up any damaged paint (touch-up paint part numbers are on page 64), and coat other areas that may rust with a light film of oil. Lubricate the control cable cores with a silicone spray lubricant (page 64).
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 Carburetor and Fuel Tank 1. Make sure the fuel valve is OFF (page 8). Remove the carburetor drain bolt with a 10 mm wrench, and drain the fuel from the carburetor bowl into an approved container. WARNING Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. • • • Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately. If you only need to drain the carburetor, skip to step 3. 2.
STORAGE OIL Engine Cylinder Remove the spark plug (see page 39). 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. This will close the valves so moisture can not enter the engine cylinder.
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. 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.
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. Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position. This will prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the possibility of fuel leakage. OFF FUEL VALVE 2. If installed, remove the grass bag.
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS ENGINE WILL NOT START Possible Cause Correction Fuel valve is OFF Turn the fuel valve ON (page 8). Throttle lever is in the wrong position Move the throttle lever to the CHOKE position, unless the engine is warm (page 19). Flywheel brake lever is not engaged Engage the flywheel brake lever (page 21). Out of fuel Refuel (page 46). Bad fuel; mower stored without treating or draining gasoline, or refueled with bad gasoline.
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS VIBRATION PROBLEMS Possible Cause Correction Grass and debris lodged under the mower deck Clear out the mower deck (page 27). Blades are loose, bent, damaged, or unbalanced by improper sharpening Tighten loose blades bolts. (page 34). If blades are found to be bent or damaged, take the lawn mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer for inspection (page 32).
SET-UP Unpacking Remove all the cardboard from around the handlebar. Handlebar Setup Loosen the two knobs on the lower handlebar enough to raise the handlebar into the mowing position. Depress the flywheel brake lever while raising the handlebar (page 13). LOCKING KNOB (2) HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT HOLES Spread the lower ends of the handlebar to release the locating pins and move the handlebar up or down to adjust the height of the handlebar (page 13).
SET-UP Engine Oil The mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL in the engine. A bottle of oil is included in the box with your mower. Add the entire contents of the oil bottle into the oil filler opening. Check that the oil level is between the upper and lower limit marks on the dipstick as shown. Do not screw in the dipstick when checking the oil level. Note: All Honda engines are run at the factory prior to packaging. Most of the oil is removed prior to shipment; however, some oil remains in the engine.
SET-UP Grass Bag Assembly Slide the grass bag frame into the grass bag and install the clips as shown. GRASS BAG BAG FRAME BAG FRAME PLASTIC CLIP Lift the discharge guard and install the grass bag.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION TECHNICAL INFORMATION Serial Number Locations ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER MODEL NAME AND FRAME SERIAL NUMBER HRX217TDA MAGA –– XXXXXXX AG AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. ALPHARETTA, GA 30005-8847 There are two serial numbers, one for the engine and one for the mower frame. Record the engine and frame serial numbers in the space below. You will need these serial numbers when ordering parts and when making technical or warranty inquiries (page 69).
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 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.
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 it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement. Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM 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.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Replacement Parts The emission control systems on your new Honda engine were designed, built, and certified to conform with EPA, California and Canadian emission regulations. We recommend the use of 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.
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. The lower the Air Index, the less pollution.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION SPECIFICATIONS Mower Model HRX217TDA Honda rotary mower, grass bag, 21 inch mower deck, 6.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Transmission Design and Performance Transmission Type 3 speed, manual shift Mower Ground Speed (with engine at 3,100 rpm) 1st: 1.8 mph (0.8 m/s), 2nd: 2.9 mph (1.3 m/s), 3rd: 3.6 mph (1.6 m/s) Maintenance Fuel Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION CONSUMER INFORMATION Replacement Parts, Optional Equipment, and Service Items Contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer to purchase any of these (or other) genuine original Honda items. Replacement Parts Item Part Number Notes Spark plug 98079-56846 NGK (brand) BPR6ES Air filter 17211-ZL8-003 Paper Lower blade 72511-VH7-000 Upper blade 72531-VH7-000 A torque wrench is required to install blades.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Dealer Locator Information To find an Authorized Honda Servicing Dealer anywhere in the United States: Visit our website: www.hondapowerequipment.com Customer 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.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Distributor's Limited Warranty This warranty is limited to the following Honda Power Equipment products when distributed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Power Equipment Division, 4900 Marconi Drive, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005-8847.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION To Obtain Warranty Service: You must take the Honda Power Equipment product, accessory, replacement part, apparel or the power equipment on which the accessory or replacement part is installed, and proof of purchase, at your expense, to any Honda Power Equipment dealer in the United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands who is authorized to sell that product, during the dealer’s normal business hours.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Accessories, Replacement Parts, and Apparel Warranty This warranty is limited to Honda Power Equipment parts, accessories and apparel when distributed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Emission Control System Warranty Your new Honda Power Equipment engine complies with the U.S. EPA, Environment Canada and State of California emission regulations. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. provides the emission warranty coverage for engines in the United States, and its territories. Honda Canada Inc. provides the emission warranty for engines in the 13 provinces and territories of Canada.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Warranty Coverage: Honda power equipment engines manufactured after January 1, 1995 and sold in the State of California, and U.S. EPA certified engines manufactured on or after September 1, 1996 and sold in all of the United States, and Canadian certified engines manufactured on or after January 1, 2005 are covered by this warranty for a period of two years from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION Emission Control System Warranty Parts: SYSTEMS COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY: PARTS DESCRIPTION: Fuel Metering Carburetor assembly, Fuel injection pump, Fuel injection nozzle, Fuel regulator, Intake manifold Exhaust Catalyst, Exhaust manifold Air Induction Air filter housing, Air filter element*, Crankcase breather tube Ignition Flywheel magneto, Ignition pulse generator, Ignition coil assembly, Ignition control module, Spark plug cap, Spark plug* Miscellaneous Parts
INDEX A Ethanol, MTBE, Methanol ................ 62 Accessories warranty ....................... 72 Air cleaner service ............................ 38 Air Filter Part Number ....................... 68 Air index ........................................... 65 Altitude, high altitude operation ........ 61 F Before operation ............................... 11 Blade Inspection ...................................... 32 Installation ..................................... 34 Part Numbers .......................
INDEX P U Paint, Part Number ........................... 68 Parts Catalog .......................................... 68 Replacement list ............................ 68 Publications ...................................... 68 Unloading ......................................... 54 S Warnings, safety message definitions 2 Warranty Accessories & parts ...................... 72 Distributor’s ................................... 70 Emissions ...................................... 73 Washing Grass bag .........
QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher (page 46) Engine oil Type SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later (page 36) Regular: Spark plug Type Before each use Maintenance First 5 hours Subsequent Resistor: NGK BP6ES DENSO W20EP-U NGK BPR6ES DENSO: W20EPR-U Check engine oil (page 36) Check air cleaner (page 38) Change engine oil (page 37) Refer to the Maintenance Schedule (page 31)
Owner’s Manual Rotary Mower HRX217TDA See page 57 for instructions on setting up your Lawn Mower. EM3 POM53619-A 31VH7001 00X31-VH7-0010 Printed on Recycled Paper IPC XXXXX.2006.04 PRINTED IN U.S.A. © 2003-2006 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
