Owner's Manual

ManualsBrandsHonda ManualsLawn MowersHonda HRX217VKA MA GA -2020001 through 2200000

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.

We suggest you read the DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY

(page 19

) and EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY

(page 20

) to fully understand coverage and your responsibilities of

ownership.

When your mower needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that

an authorized Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing

Honda mowers and is supported by the parts and service divisions of

American Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction

and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.

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. No part of this publication may be

reproduced without written permission.

SAFETY MESSAGES

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. We have

provided important safety messages in this manual and on the

mower. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt

you or others. Please read these messages carefully.

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:

• Safety Labels – on the lawn mower.

• Instructions – how to use this mower correctly and safely.

• Safety Messages – preceded by a safety alert  symbol and one

of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These

signal words mean:

Each message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen, and

what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

• Damage Prevention Messages – You will also see other

important messages that are preceded by the word NOTICE. This

word means:

CONTENTS



 For more information regarding cable adjustment or how to mow

your lawn, see FAQs at www.HondaPowerEquipment.com/faq

DANGER

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

HURT if you don't follow instructions.

WARNING

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

HURT if you don't follow instructions.

CAUTION

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow

instructions.

NOTICE

Your lawn mower or other property can be

damaged if you don’t follow instructions.

INTRODUCTION...................................... 1

SAFETY MESSAGES.............................. 1

LAWN MOWER SAFETY......................... 2

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO

PARENTS.........................................2

SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS.......... 2

SETTING UP YOUR MOWER................. 3

CONTROL LOCATIONS.......................... 4

BEFORE OPERATION ............................ 4

IS YOUR LAWN MOWER READY

TO GO? ............................................ 4

CHECK YOUR MOWING AREA ...... 4

GET THE MOWER READY.............. 5

OPERATION............................................ 7

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS7

STARTING THE ENGINE................. 7

OPERATING THE CONTROLS

FOR MOWING.................................. 7

STOPPING THE ENGINE ................ 7

SAFE MOWING PRACTICES .......... 8

SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER ....... 8

MAINTENANCE SAFETY................. 8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE........... 9

BLADES............................................ 9

GRASS BAG CLEANING AND

REPLACEMENT............................. 10

ENGINE MAINTENANCE............... 11

REFUELING ................................... 13

TRANSPORTING...................................13

STORAGE..............................................13

TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED

PROBLEMS ...........................................15

TECHNICAL INFORMATION.................16

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATIONS.....16

CARBURETOR

MODIFICATION FOR HIGH

ALTITUDE OPERATION ................16

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM....16

AIR INDEX......................................17

SPECIFICATIONS..........................17

CONSUMER INFORMATION ................18

REPLACEMENT PARTS,

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT, AND

SERVICE ITEMS ............................18

DEALER LOCATOR

INFORMATION ...............................18

CUSTOMER SERVICE

INFORMATION...............................18

DISTRIBUTOR'S LIMITED

WARRANTY ...................................19

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM

WARRANTY ...................................20

PRODUCT REGISTRATION

CARD .........................................Last page

OWNER’S MANUAL

HRX217VKA

 WARNING: 

The engine exhaust from this product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

31VH7V310

00X31-VH7-V310

EM5

POM31VH7V310

HPE.2012.04

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

Click here to save

this manual to your

computer.

Summary of content (24 pages)

PAGE 1
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. OWNER’S MANUAL HRX217VKA 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.
PAGE 2
LAWN MOWER SAFETY Most injuries or property damage with walk-behind mowers can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the mower. The most common hazards 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.
PAGE 3
SETTING UP YOUR MOWER 4. Lift the discharge guard and install the grass bag. Unpacking Remove all the cardboard from around the handlebar. Handlebar Setup BLADE CONTROL LEVER Engine Oil The mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL in the engine. HANDLEBAR ADJUST KNOB (2) 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. All Honda engines are run at the factory prior to packaging.
PAGE 4
CONTROL LOCATIONS BEFORE OPERATION Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk of injury. BLADE CONTROL LEVER (p. 7) 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 shut off the lawn mower quickly in case of an emergency. HANDLEBAR (p. 3) DISCHARGE GUARD FUEL TANK CAP (p.
PAGE 5
GET THE MOWER READY Sliding Door Position Handlebar Height Adjustment Adjust handlebar height for a comfortable operating position (page 3). Smart Drive™ Control SMART DRIVE CONTROL The Smart Drive control can be adjusted up or down into any one of five positions. Do not attempt to adjust the position of the Smart Drive control while the mower is in motion. ™ CONTROL The sliding door can be positioned to produce different mowing results.
PAGE 6
Rear Shield Cutting Height Adjustment During normal use the rear shield is subject to deterioration and wear. Remove the grass bag and raise the discharge guard to check the rear shield for cracks or tears. If the rear shield is excessively worn, have it replaced by your authorized Honda servicing dealer. Each wheel of the mower can be adjusted to one of seven settings. The cutting height figures are approximate. The actual height of cut grass will vary with lawn and soil conditions.
PAGE 7
OPERATION OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING Smart Drive Control SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS Before operating the mower for the first time, please review LAWN MOWER SAFETY (page 2). 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.
PAGE 8
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.
PAGE 9
• Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required. BLADES • To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline. Use only a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts. 1. Move the fuel valve to the OFF position (page 7) and disconnect the spark plug cap from the spark plug (page 12).
PAGE 10
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 Honda Genuine replacement blades or their equivalent (page 18). Blade Removal FUEL CAP UP 1. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
PAGE 11
ENGINE MAINTENANCE Please dispose of used motor oil and the container in a manner that is compatible with the environment. We suggest you take it in a sealed container to your local recycling center or service station for reclamation. Do not throw it in the trash, pour it on the ground, or pour it down a drain. Engine Oil Level Check 1. Unscrew and remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck.
PAGE 12
Spark Plug Service Spark Arrester Service (optional equipment) An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage. 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. See page 18 for part numbers. For good performance, the spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits.
PAGE 13
REFUELING Fuel Storage Container This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. We recommend refueling after each use to minimize the air present in the fuel tank. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. If the engine has been running, allow it to cool first. Never refuel the engine inside a building where gasoline fumes may reach flames or sparks.
PAGE 14
Grass Bag Remove the bag from the mower, and wash it with a garden hose or pressure washing equipment. Allow the bag to dry completely before storage. The grass bag can be stored flat when not in use by unhooking the plastic clips from the fabric bag and pushing the frame lower support legs outward from the eyelets. 2. After adding a fuel stabilizer, run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes to be sure that treated gasoline has replaced the untreated gasoline in the carburetor. 3.
PAGE 15
PLACING IN STORAGE Loss of Power If your mower will be stored with gasoline in the fuel tank, 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 humidity promotes rust and corrosion.
PAGE 16
TECHNICAL INFORMATION EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM Source of Emissions SERIAL NUMBER LOCATIONS 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.
PAGE 17
AIR INDEX Dimensions, Weights, and Capacities 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.
PAGE 18
CONSUMER INFORMATION REPLACEMENT PARTS, OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICE ITEMS Contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer to purchase any of these (or other) Honda Genuine items for your lawn mower. Replacement Parts Item Part Number Notes Spark plug 98079-55846 BPR5ES NGK (brand) Air filter 17211-ZL8-023 Paper Lower blade 72511-VH7-000 Upper blade 72531-VH7-000 Always use an upper and lower blade as a set.
PAGE 19
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. The following warranty applies to products purchased at retail or placed in rental service on or after January 1, 2010.
PAGE 20
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY Your new Honda Power Equipment engine complies with the U.S. EPA, Environment Canada, and State of California emission regulations (models certified for sale in California only). 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.
PAGE 21
NOTES
PAGE 22
NOTES
PAGE 23
PRODUCT REGISTRATION PLEASE COMPLETE and MAIL or REGISTER ONLINE www.HondaPowerEquipment.com Honda HRX Mowers Honda HR Mowers Look on the left rear section of the mower deck, in front of the discharge guard door spring. Look on the center rear section of the mower deck (HRS), and in front of the discharge guard (HRR). Honda Mini-Tiller Look on the right side of the tine shield. MODEL: XXXX XXXX SERIAL NO: XXXX-XXXXXXX Honda Hand-Held Products Print the serial number here.
PAGE 24
1. Go www.hondapowerequipment.com to register your unit. 2. Click on Product Registration. 3. Complete the required information and click Submit. It’s that simple! You’ll receive e-mail confirmation of your registration. NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES Product Registration BUSINESS REPLY MAIL FIRST-CLASS MAIL PERMIT NO. 117 ALPHARETTA GA POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE Power Equipment Division American Honda Motor Co., Inc.