HONDA GX120 User Manual [en, es, fr]

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing a Honda engine. We want to help you to get the best results from your new engine and to operate it safely. This manual contains information on how to do that; please read it carefully before operating the engine. If a problem should arise, or if you have any questions about your engine, consult an authorized Honda servicing dealer.
All information in this publication is based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the engine and should remain with the engine if resold.
Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any additional information regarding engine startup, shutdown, operation, adjustments or any special maintenance instructions.
United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands: We suggest you read the warranty policy to fully understand its coverage and your responsibilities of ownership. The warranty policy is a separate document that should have been given to you by your dealer.

SAFETY MESSAGES

OWNER’S MANUAL
MANUEL DE L’UTILISATEUR
GX120 · GX160
FOR RAMMER-TYPE COMPACTORS
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
ENGLISHFRANÇAISESPAÑOL
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. We have provided important safety messages in this manual and on the engine. Please read these messages carefully.
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
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:
Your engine or other property can be damaged if you don’t follow instructions.
The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your engine, other property, or the environment.

CONTENTS

.......................INTRODUCTION .1
................SAFETY MESSAGES .1
..........SAFETY INFORMATION .2
.........................SAFETY LABEL .2
COMPONENT & CONTROL
................................LOCATION .2
BEFORE OPERATION
....................................CHECKS .3
..............................OPERATION .3
SAFE OPERATING
.....................PRECAUTIONS .3
THE IMPORTANCE OF
....................MAINTENANCE .5
MAINTENANCE
............................SCHEDULE .5
...........................REFUELING .6
...........................ENGINE OIL .6
............Recommended Oil .6
..................Oil Level Check .6
.........................Oil Change .7
........................AIR CLEANER .8
..........................Inspection .8
............................Cleaning .8
......STARTING THE ENGINE .3
......STOPPING THE ENGINE .4
.....SERVICING YOUR ENGINE .5
......MAINTENANCE SAFETY .5
.......SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .5
........................SPARK PLUG .8
....................AIR VENT TUBE .9
...........................IDLE SPEED .9
HELPFUL TIPS &
........................SUGGESTIONS .9
.....STORING YOUR ENGINE .9
................TRANSPORTING .10
TAKING CARE OF
....UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS .11
..TECHNICAL INFORMATION .11
.....Serial Number Location .11
Carburetor Modifications for
.....High Altitude Operation .12
Emission Control System
.........................Information .12
.....................Specifications .13
........Tuneup Specifications .13
Quick Reference
.........................Information .13
..................Wiring Diagram .13
.CONSUMER INFORMATION .14
Distributor/Dealer Locator
.........................Information .14
Customer Service
.........................Information .14
2006 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved
37Z4F801 00X37-Z4F-8010
GX120U1·GX160U1 (RAMMER)
ENGLISH
1

COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONSAFETY INFORMATION

Understand the operation of all controls and learn how to stop the engine quickly in case of emergency. Make sure the operator receives adequate instruction before operating the equipment. Do not allow children to operate the engine. Keep children and pets away from the area of operation. Your engine’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Do not run the engine without adequate ventilation, and never run the engine indoors. The engine and exhaust become very hot during operation. Keep the engine at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from buildings and other equipment during operation. Keep flammable materials away, and do not place anything on the engine while it is running.

SAFETY LABEL

This label warns you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read it carefully. If the label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for replacement.
AIR VENT TUBE
AIR CLEANER
SPARK PLUG
MUFFLER
STARTER GRIP
OIL FILLER CAP/ DIPSTICK
Labels come with the engine.
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Turn engine off and let cool before refueling.
The engine emits toxic poisonous carbon monoxide gas. Do not run in an enclosed area.
Read Owner’s Manual before operation.
For Canadian types only: French label.
CHOKE LEVER
OIL DRAIN PLUG
RECOIL STARTER
ENGINE CONTROLS
ENGINE SWITCH
2
ENGLISH

BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS OPERATION

IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO?

For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your equipment, it is very important to take a few moments before you operate the engine to check its condition. Be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your servicing dealer correct it, before you operate the engine.
Improperly maintaining this engine, or failure to correct a problem before operation, can cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always perform a preoperation inspection before each operation, and correct any problem.
Before beginning your preoperation checks, be sure the engine is level and the engine switch is in the OFF position.
Always check the following items before you start the engine:
Check the General Condition of the Engine
1.
Look around and underneath the engine for signs of oil or gasoline leaks.
2.
Remove any excessive dirt or debris, especially around the muffler and recoil starter.
Look for signs of damage.
3.

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS

Before operating the engine for the first time, please review the
SAFETY INFORMATION OPERATION CHECKS
section on page and the
2
.
BEFORE
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.
Avoid any areas or actions that expose you to carbon monoxide.
Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any safety precautions that should be observed with engine startup, shutdown or operation.

STARTING THE ENGINE

1.
If the fuel tank is equipped with a valve, be sure the fuel valve and fuel filler cap vent are in the OPEN or ON position before attempting to start the engine. For specific instructions on fuel valve and fuel filler cap vent operation, refer to the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine.
2.
To start a cold engine, move the choke lever to the CLOSED position.
CHOKE LEVER
Check that all shields and covers are in place, and all nuts, bolts,
4. and screws are tightened.
Check the Engine
Check the fuel level. Starting with a full tank will help to
1. eliminate or reduce operating interruptions for refueling.
Check the engine oil level (see page ). Running the engine
2.
6
with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
3.
Check the air filter element (see page ). A dirty air filter
8 element will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance.
4.
Check the equipment powered by this engine.
Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any precautions and procedures that should be followed before engine startup.
CLOSED
CLOSED
OOPPEENN
To restart a warm engine, leave the choke lever in the OPEN position.
Move the throttle lever to the MIN. position. The throttle lever is
3. mounted on the equipment powered by this engine. Refer to the instructions provided with that equipment for information about your specific throttle control.
THROTTLE LEVER (on the equipment)
MIN.
ENGLISH
3
4.
Turn the engine switch to the ON position.
ENGINE SWITCH
ON
Position the throttle lever for the desired engine speed. For
7. engine speed recommendations, refer to the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine.
MIN.
5.
Operate the starter.
Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly in the direction of the arrow as shown below. Return the starter grip gently.
STARTER GRIP
DDiirreeccttiioonn ttoo ppuullll
Do not allow the starter grip to snap back against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to the starter.
6.
If the choke lever was moved to the CLOSED position to start the engine, gradually move it to the OPEN position as the engine warms up.
THROTTLE LEVER (on the equipment)
MAX.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

To stop the engine in an emergency, simply turn the engine switch to the OFF position. Under normal conditions, use the following procedure.
Move the throttle lever to the MIN. position.
1.
THROTTLE LEVER (on the equipment)
Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.
2.
ENGINE SWITCH
MIN.
CHOKE LEVER
OPEN
CLOSED
OOPPEENN
4
3.
If the fuel tank is equipped with a fuel valve or a fuel filler cap with a vent, turn them to the CLOSED or OFF position.
ENGLISH
OFF

SERVICING YOUR ENGINE

THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE

Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical and trouble­free operation. It will also help reduce pollution.
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.
To help you properly care for your engine, 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 other qualified mechanic.
The maintenance schedule applies to normal operating conditions. If you operate your engine under severe conditions, such as sustained high-load or high-temperature operation, or use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, consult your servicing dealer for recommendations applicable to your individual needs and use.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

REGULAR SERVICE PERIOD (3)
Perform at every indicated month or operating hour interval,
whichever comes first. ITEM Engine oil
Air filter
Spark plug
Idle speed Valve clearance
Combustion chamber Fuel tank & filter Fuel tube
Replace the paper air filter element only.
(1)
Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
Check level Change Check Clean Replace Check-adjust Replace Check-adjust Check-adjust
Clean
Clean
Check
Each
Use
Every 3
First
Months
Month
or
or
50 Hrs
20 Hrs
(1)
After every 500 Hrs. (2)
Every 2 years
(Replace if necessary) (2)
Every 6
Months
or
100 Hrs
(2)
Every
Year
or
300 Hrs
(2) (2)
Refer
to
Page
6 7 8 8
8
9
Shop
manual
Shop
manual
Shop
manual
Shop
manual
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any engine repair establishment or individual, using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

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.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs. This will eliminate several potential hazards:
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.
Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Burns from hot parts.
Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
Injury from moving parts.
Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so. Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required. 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.
Remember that an authorized Honda servicing dealer knows your engine best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. To ensure the best quality and reliability, use only new genuine Honda parts or their equivalents for repair and replacement.
(2)
These items should be serviced by your servicing dealer, unless you have the proper tools and are mechanically proficient. Refer to Honda shop manual for service procedures.
(3)
For commercial use, log hours of operation to determine proper maintenance intervals.
Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in non­warrantable failures.
ENGLISH
5

REFUELING

ENGINE OIL

Recommended Fuel
Unleaded gasoline
U. S. Except U. S.
Pump octane rating 86 or higher Research octane rating 91 or higher Pump octane rating 86 or higher
This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher (a research octane rating of 91 or higher). 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. You may use regular unleaded gasoline containing no more than 10% Ethanol (E10) or 5% Methanol by volume. In addition, Methanol must contain cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Use of fuels with content of Ethanol or Methanol greater than shown above may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of the fuel system. Engine damage or performance problems that result from using a fuel with percentages of Ethanol or Methanol greater than shown above are not covered under warranty.
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive, and you can be burned or seriously injured when refueling.
Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Refuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.
Oil is a major factor affecting performance and service life. Use 4-stroke automotive detergent oil.

Recommended Oil

SAE Viscosity Grades
Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets or exceeds the requirements for API service classification SJ or later (or equivalent). Always check the API service label on the oil container to be sure it includes the letters SJ or later (or
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
equivalent).
SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general use. Other viscosities shown in the chart may be used when the average temperature in your area is within the indicated range.

Oil Level Check

Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and in a level position.
1.
Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
2.
Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick into the oil filler neck as shown, but do not screw it in, then remove it to check the oil level.
3.
If the oil level is near or below the lower limit mark on the dipstick, fill with the recommended oil to the upper limit mark (bottom edge of the oil fill hole). Do not overfill.
Fuel can damage paint and some types of plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under the
Distributor’s Limited Warranty.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or oil/gasoline mixture. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
Refuel carefully to avoid spilling fuel.
Keep gasoline away from appliance pilot lights, barbecues, electric appliances, power tools, etc.
Spilled fuel is not only a fire hazard, it causes environmental damage. Wipe up spills immediately.
4.
Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK
UPPER LIMIT
OIL FILL HOLE (bottom edge)
LOWER LIMIT
Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
6
ENGLISH

Oil Change

Drain the used oil when the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely.
1.
Place a suitable container below the engine to catch the used oil, then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick, drain plug and washer.
2.
Allow the used oil to drain completely, then reinstall the drain plug and new washer, and tighten the drain plug securely.
Please dispose of used motor oil in a manner that is compatible with the environment. We suggest you take used oil 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 down a drain.
With the engine in a level position, fill to the upper limit mark
3. (bottom edge of the oil fill hole) on the dipstick with the recommended oil (see page ).
6
Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
Install the oil filler cap/dipstick and tighten securely.
4.
OIL FILLER CAP/DIPSTICK
WASHER
UPPER LIMIT
DRAIN PLUG
ENGLISH
7

AIR CLEANER

SPARK PLUG

A dirty air cleaner will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. If you operate the engine in very dusty areas, clean the air filter more often than specified in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.
Operating the engine without an air filter, or with a damaged air 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.
Inspection
1.
Release the retaining clip, and remove the air cleaner cover.
2.
Remove and inspect the air filter elements. If the air filter element is dirty, clean the air filter elements as described below. Replace damaged filter elements. Always replace the paper air filter element at the scheduled interval (see page ).
3.
Place the foam air filter element over the paper element, and
5
reinstall the assembled air filter elements. Insert the open end of the air filter elements into the case as shown, so the closed end is toward the air cleaner cover.
4.
Hook the bottom edge of the air cleaner cover onto the case, then secure the cover with the retaining clip.
RETAINING CLIP
PAPER FILTER ELEMENT
CLOSED END
FOAM FILTER ELEMENT
INCORRECT
AIR CLEANER CASE
OPEN END
CORRECT
Recommended Spark Plugs:
BPR4ES (NGK) W14EPR-U (DENSO)
The recommended spark plug has the correct heat range for normal engine operating temperatures.
An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage.
For good performance, the spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits.
1.
Disconnect the spark plug cap,
SPARK PLUG WRENCH
and remove any dirt from around the spark plug area.
2.
Remove the spark plug with a 13/16-inch spark plug wrench.
Inspect the spark plug.
3. Replace it if damaged or badly fouled, if the sealing washer is in poor condition, or if the electrode is worn.
Measure the spark plug
4. electrode gap with a wire­type feeler gauge. Correct the gap, if necessary, by carefully
SIDE ELECTRODE
0.70 0.80 mm
(0.028 0.031 in)
bending the side electrode. The gap should be:
0.70 0.80 mm (0.028 0.031 in)
−−
Install the spark plug carefully,
5.
SEALING WASHER
by hand, to avoid cross­threading.
6.
After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a 13/16-inch spark plug wrench to compress the sealing washer.
When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark
7. plug seats to compress the washer.
AIR CLEANER COVER
PLATE
HOLE
Cleaning
1.
Clean the air filter elements if they are to be reused.
Paper air filter element: Tap the filter element several times on a hard surface to remove dirt, or blow compressed air [not exceeding 207 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm
, 30 psi)] through the filter element from the inside. Never try to brush off dirt; brushing will force dirt into the fibers.
Foam air filter element: Clean in warm soapy water, rinse, and allow to dry thoroughly. Or clean in non-flammable solvent and allow to dry. Dip the filter element in clean engine oil, then squeeze out all excess oil. The engine will smoke when started if too much oil is left in the foam.
2.
Wipe dirt from the inside of the air cleaner case and cover, using a moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct that leads to the carburetor.
8
When reinstalling the original spark plug, tighten 1/8 1/4 turn
8. after the spark plug seats to compress the washer.
A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening the spark plug can damage the threads in the cylinder head.
9.
Attach the spark plug cap to the spark plug.
ENGLISH

AIR VENT TUBE

HELPFUL TIPS & SUGGESTIONS

Inspection
Check that the air vent tube is secured by the tube retainers without collapsing or kinking.
IDLE SPEED
Adjustment
1.
Start the engine outdoors, andallowittowarmupto operating temperature.
2.
With the engine idling, turn the throttle stop screw to obtain the standard idle speed.
Standard idle speed:
1,500 150 rpm
±
RETAINERS
AIR VENT TUBE
THROTTLE STOP SCREW

STORING YOUR ENGINE

Storage Preparation

Proper storage preparation is essential for keeping your engine trouble-free and looking good. The following steps will help to keep rust and corrosion from impairing your engine’s function and appearance, and will make the engine easier to start when you use it again.
Cleaning
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least half an hour before cleaning. Clean all exterior surfaces, touch up any damaged paint, and coat other areas that may rust with a light film of oil.
Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in the air cleaner will soak the air filter, and water that passes through the air filter or muffler can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
Fuel
Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorate in storage. Deteriorated gasoline will cause hard starting, and it leaves gum deposits that clog the fuel system. If the gasoline in your engine deteriorates during storage, you may need to have the carburetor, and other fuel system components, serviced or replaced.
The length of time that gasoline can be left in your fuel tank and carburetor without causing functional problems will vary with such factors as gasoline blend, your storage temperatures, and whether the fuel tank is partially or completely filled. The air in a partially filled fuel tank promotes fuel deterioration. Very warm storage temperatures accelerate fuel deterioration. Fuel problems may occur within a few months, or even less if the gasoline was not fresh when you filled the fuel tank.
Fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from neglected storage preparation are not covered under the
Distributor’s Limited Warranty
.
You can extend fuel storage life by adding a gasoline stabilizer that is formulated for that purpose, or you can avoid fuel deterioration problems by draining the fuel tank and carburetor.
Adding a Gasoline Stabilizer to Extend Fuel Storage Life
When adding a gasoline stabilizer, fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline. If only partially filled, air in the tank will promote fuel deterioration during storage. If you keep a container of gasoline for refueling, be sure that it contains only fresh gasoline.
1.
Add gasoline stabilizer following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2.
After adding a gasoline stabilizer, run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes to be sure that treated gasoline has replaced the untreated gasoline in the carburetor.
3.
Stop the engine.
ENGLISH
9
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. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.
Drain the fuel tank, following the instructions of the equipment
1. manufacturer.
Place an approved gasoline container below the carburetor, and
2. use a funnel to avoid spilling fuel. Loosen or remove the carburetor drain bolt and washer.
CARBURETOR
WASHER
DRAIN BOLT
After all fuel has drained into the container, install the drain bolt
3. and washer and tighten the drain bolt.
Engine Oil
Change the engine oil (see page ).
1.
Remove the spark plug (see page ).
2.
Pour a tablespoon 5 10 cm
3.
−−
7
8
(5 10 cc) of clean engine oil into
the cylinder.
Pull the starter rope several times to distribute the oil in the
4. cylinder.
Reinstall the spark plug.
5.
Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt and the notch
6. on the starter pulley aligns with the hole at the top of the recoil starter cover. This will close the valves so moisture cannot enter the engine cylinder. Return the starter rope gently.

Storage PrecautionsDraining the Fuel Tank and Carburetor

If your engine 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 spark­producing electric motor, or where power tools are operated.
If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity, because that promotes rust and corrosion.
Keep the engine level in storage. Tilting can cause fuel or oil leakage.
Unless all fuel has been drained from the fuel tank, leave the fuel valve and fuel filler cap vent in the CLOSED or OFF position to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage.
With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover the engine to keep out dust. A hot engine and exhaust system can ignite or melt some materials. Do not use sheet plastic as a dust cover. A nonporous cover will trap moisture around the engine, promoting rust and corrosion.

Removal from Storage

Check your engine as described in the
CHECKS
section of this manual (see page ).
BEFORE OPERATION
3
If the fuel was drained during storage preparation, fill the tank with fresh gasoline. If you keep a container of gasoline for refueling, be sure it contains only fresh gasoline. Gasoline oxidizes and deteriorates over time, causing hard starting.
If the cylinder was coated with oil during storage preparation, the engine will smoke briefly at startup. This is normal.

TRANSPORTING

If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before storing or loading on the transport vehicle. A hot engine and muffler can burn you and can ignite some materials.
If the fuel tank is equipped with a fuel valve and/or a fuel filler cap vent valve, turn them to the CLOSED or OFF position.
You can rest the equipment on its side if the fuel tank is equipped with a fuel valve and a fuel filler cap vent, and both are in the CLOSED or OFF position. Position the equipment so the carburetor is facing up, as shown.
INCORRECT
FRONT
10
Align notch on pulley with hole at top of cover.
ENGLISH
INCORRECT
LEFT
REAR (Operator’s side)
INCORRECT
CORRECT
RIGHT
CARBURETOR
As viewed from the above

TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS TECHNICAL INFORMATION

ENGINE WILL NOT START
1.
Check control positions.
2.
Check fuel.
3.
Remove and inspect spark plug.
4.
Take engine to an authorized Honda servicing dealer, or refer to shop manual.
Possible Cause Correction
Fuel valve and/
Turn valve(s) ON. or fuel filler cap vent valve OFF. Choke open.
Move lever to
CLOSED position
unless the engine
is warm. Engine switch OFF. Out of fuel. Bad fuel; engine stored without treating or draining
Turn engine switch
to ON position.
Refuel (p. 6).
Drain fuel tank and
carburetor (p. 10).
Refuel with fresh
gasoline(p. 6). gasoline, or refueled with bad gasoline. Spark plug faulty, fouled, or
Gap or replace
spark plug (p. 8). improperly gapped. Spark plug wet with fuel (flooded engine).
Dry and reinstall
spark plug. Start
engine with
throttle lever in
MAX. position. Fuel filter restricted, carburetor
Replace or repair
faulty components
as necessary. malfunction, ignition malfunction, valves stuck, etc.

Serial Number Location

Record the engine serial number, type and purchase date in the space below. You will need this information when ordering parts and when making technical or warranty inquiries.
SERIAL NUMBER & ENGINE TYPE LOCATION
Engine serial number: __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Engine type: ___ ___ ___ ___
Date Purchased: ______ / ______ / ______
ENGINE LACKS POWER
1.
Check air filter.
2.
Check fuel.
3.
Take engine to an authorized Honda servicing dealer, or refer to shop manual.
Possible Cause Correction
Filter element(s) restricted.
Clean or replace
filter element(s)
(p. 8). Bad fuel; engine stored without treating or draining
Drain fuel tank and
carburetor (p. 10).
Refuel with fresh
gasoline (p. 6). gasoline, or refueled with bad gasoline. Fuel filter restricted, carburetor
Replace or repair
faulty components
as necessary. malfunction, ignition malfunction, valves stuck, etc.
ENGLISH
11

Oxygenated Fuels

Emission Control System Information

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 oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirements.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.
The following are the EPA approved percentages of oxygenates:
ETHANOL
(ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name Gasohol.
MTBE
(methyl tertiary butyl ether) 15% by volume You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
METHANOL
(methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by volume You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of your fuel 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.
Honda utilizes lean carburetor settings and other systems to reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons.
The U.S. Clean Air Acts and Environment Canada
EPA and Canadian regulations require all manufacturers to furnish written instructions describing the operation and maintenance of emission control systems.
The following instructions and procedures must be followed in order to keep the emissions from your Honda engine within the emission standards.
Tampering and Altering
Tampering with or altering the emission control system may increase emissions beyond the legal limit. Among those acts that constitute tampering are:
Removal or alteration of any part of the intake, fuel, or exhaust systems. Altering or defeating the governor linkage or speed-adjusting mechanism to cause the engine to operate outside its design parameters.
Problems That May Affect Emissions
If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have your engine inspected and repaired by your servicing dealer.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline. Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates mentioned above are not covered under the
Distributor’s Limited Warranty
.
Hard starting or stalling after starting. Rough idle. Misfiring or backfiring under load. Afterburning (backfiring). Black exhaust smoke or high fuel consumption.
Replacement Parts
The emission control systems on your Honda engine were designed, built, and certified to conform with EPA and Canadian emission regulations. We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts whenever you have maintenance done. These original­design replacement parts are manufactured to the same standards as the original parts, so you can be confident of their performance. The use of replacement parts that are not of the original design and quality may impair the effectiveness of your emission control system.
A manufacturer of an aftermarket part assumes the responsibility that the part will not adversely affect emission performance. The manufacturer or rebuilder of the part must certify that use of the part will not result in a failure of the engine to comply with emission regulations.
Maintenance
Follow the maintenance schedule on page . Remember that this
5 schedule is based on the assumption that your machine will be used for its designed purpose. Sustained high-load or high­temperature operation, or use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, will require more frequent service.
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ENGLISH

Specifications

Quick Reference Information

GX120 (Standard type: KR type)
Length Width
××
Height Dry weight Engine type
4-stroke, overhead valve, single cylinder Displacement [Bore Stroke]
×
Max. output Max. torque
Engine oil capacity Fuel consumption
2.9 kW (4.0 PS, 4.0 bhp) at 3,600 rpm
7.4 N·m (0.75 kgf·m, 5.4 lbf·ft) at
0.40
310 g/kWh (230 g/PSh, 0.51 lb/hph) Cooling system Ignition system PTO shaft rotation
GX160
(Standard type: AR type)
Length Width
××
Height Dry weight Engine type
4-stroke, overhead valve, single cylinder Displacement [Bore Stroke]
×
Max. output Max. torque
Engine oil capacity Fuel consumption
4.0 kW (5.5 PS, 5.5 bhp) at 3,600 rpm
10.8 N·m (1.1 kgf·m, 8.0 lbf·ft) at
0.37
310 g/kWh (230 g/PSh, 0.51 lb/hph) Cooling system Ignition system PTO shaft rotation
313 331 321 mm
××
(12.3 13.0 12.6 in)
××
16.5 kg (36.4 lbs)
118 cm
××
[6042mm(2.41.7in)]
(7.2 cu-in)
2,500 rpm
(0.42 US qt , 0.35 Imp qt)
Forced air
Transistorized magneto
Counterclockwise
319 342 333 mm
××
(12.6 13.5 13.1 in)
××
18.6 kg (41.0 lbs)
163 cm
××
[6845mm(2.71.8in)]
(9.9 cu-in)
2,500 rpm
(0.39 US qt , 0.33 Imp qt)
Forced air
Transistorized magneto
Counterclockwise
Fuel
Engine oil
Unleaded gasoline (Refer to page 6)
U.S. Except U.S.
Pump octane rating 86 or higher Research octane rating 91 or higher Pump octane rating 86 or higher
SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later, for general use.
Refer to page 6.
Spark plug
BPR4ES (NGK) W14EPR-U (DENSO)
Maintenance
Before each use:
Check engine oil level. Refer to page 6. Check air filter. Refer to page 8. Check all bolts and nuts.
First 20 hours:
Change engine oil. Refer to page 7.
Subsequent:
Refer to the maintenance schedule on page 5.

Wiring Diagram

Wiring diagram may vary according to the type.
OFF ON
Tuneup Specifications
GX120/160
ITEM SPECIFICATION MAINTENANCE
Spark plug gap
Idle speed Valve clearance (cold)
0.70 0.80 mm
(0.028 0.031 in)
1,500 150 rpm
±
IN:
0.15 0.02 mm
EX:
±
0.20 0.02 mm
±
Refer to page: 8
Refer to page: 9 See your authorized Honda dealer
Other
No other adjustments needed.
specifications
(1) SPARK PLUG (2) IGNITION COIL (3) ENGINE SWITCH
BI Black
ENGLISH
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