Honda HRX537VYE Owner's Manual

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing a Honda lawn mower. This manual covers the operation and maintenance of the Honda

HRX537VYEA lawn mower. 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.

This manual should be considered a permanent part of the lawn mower and should remain with it if it is resold.

If you have a problem or questions concerning the mower, contact your supplying dealer.

We recommend that you read the warranty policy to fully understand your rights and responsibilities. The warranty policy is a separate document provided by your dealer.

Honda Power Equipment Mfg., Inc. 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.

SAFETY MESSAGES

Pay special attention to statements preceded by the following words:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

B DANGER

HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

OWNER’S MANUAL

(Original instructions)

HRX537VYE

LAWN MOWER

ENGLISHFRANÇAIS

B WARNING

B CAUTION

Each message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen, and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Damage Prevention Messaes

You will also see other important messages that are preceded by the following word:

NOTICE

The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your lawn mower, other property, or the environment.

Your lawn mower or other property can be damaged if you don’t follow instructions.

ESPAÑOL

CONTENTS

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

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

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

SET-UP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

CONTROLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

PRE-OPERATION CHECKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

TRANSPORTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

TROUBLESHOOTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Honda Warranty Conditions, “EC Declaration of Conformity” CONTENT OUTLINE,

Major Honda Distributor Locations . . . . . . . .. . . . . .Last page

39VH7F11 00X39-VH7-F110

POM39VH7F11

IPC.xxxx.2009.11

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

ENGLISH

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

B WARNING

To ensure safe operation –

• Honda lawn mowers are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions. Read and understand the Owner’s Manual before operating the mower. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.

• Read instructions carefully , become familiar with controls and proper use of equipment.

• Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the lawn mower. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.

• Never mow while people, especially children, or pets are nearby.

• Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for injuries, property damage, or hazards occurring to other people or their property.

• While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.

• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used, and remove all objects which may be thrown by the machine.

• Petrol is highly flammable: – Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this

purpose. – Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refuelling. – Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of

the fuel tank or add petrol while the engine is running or

when the engine is hot. – If petrol is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine, but

move the machine away from the area of spillage, and avoid

creating any source of ignition until the petrol vapors have

dissipated. – Install fuel caps securely.

• Replace faulty mufflers.

• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts, and mower housing are not worn or damaged. Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.

• Do not operate the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Avoid operating the equipment in wet grass, where feasible.

• Mowing on slopes: – Always be sure of your footing on slopes. – Mow across slopes, never up and down. – Walk, never run. – Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on

slopes.

– Do not mow excessively steep slopes.

• Use extreme caution when pulling the lawn mower toward you.

• Stop the blades if the lawn mower has to be tilted for transporting, when crossing surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the lawn mower to and from the area to be mowed.

• Never operate the lawn mower with defective guards or shields, or without safety devices (for example, deflectors and/or grass catchers in place).

• Do not attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the machine is running.

• Do not change the engine governor setting or over-speed the engine.

• Disengage all blade and drive clutches before starting the machine.

• Start the engine carefully according to the instructions and with feet well away from the blades.

• Do not tilt the lawn mower when starting the engine.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• Never pick up or carry a lawn mower while the engine is running.

• Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire: – Before clearing a blockage or unclogging the lawn mower. – Before checking, cleaning, or working on the lawn mower. – After striking a foreign object. Inspect the lawn mower for

damage and make repairs before restarting and operating the lawn mower.

– If lawn mower starts to vibrate abnormally, check

immediately.

• Stop the engine: – Whenever you leave the lawn mower. – Before refuelling the lawn mower. – Before removing the grass catcher or side discharge

adapter.

• Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut down, and turn the fuel valve off at the conclusion of mowing.

• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

• Never store the equipment with petrol in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.

• Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

• To reduce the fire hazard, keep the petrol storage area, engine, muffler, and battery compartment (if applicable) free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease.

•

heck the grass catcher frequently for wear or deterioration.

• Replace worn or damaged parts for safety.

• If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors.

• Wear eye protection.

Disposal To protect the environment, do not dispose of this product,

battery, engine oil, etc. carelessly by leaving them in the waste. Observe the local laws and regulations or consult your authorized Honda dealer for disposal.

ENGLISH

SAFETY LABEL LOCATION

This label warns you of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Carefully read meaning. If label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your dealer for a replacement.

Letter Meaning

COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION

[12]

[1]

[2]

1. Read the owner’s manual before using the mower.

2. Risk of projections: Keep third persons away from the area during use.

3. Risk of cuts. Rotating blade: Do not put hands or feet inside the blade enclosure. Disconnect the spark plug cap before performing any operation of maintenance or repairs.

4. Do not operate without either discharge guard or grass catcher in place.

5. Read the owner’s manual before using the mower.

6. The engine emits toxic carbon monoxide. Do not run in an enclosed area.

7. Petrol is highly flammable. Stop the engine before refueling.

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION PLATE

Letter Meaning

[11]

A [LABEL]

[3]

[10]

[9]

[8]

C [LABEL]

[7]

[19]

[6]

[5]

[20]

[18]

[4]

[13]

[14]

8 7

AЯ04

1. Guaranteed sound power level according to Directive

2. Conformity mark, according to EC-Directive and GOST-R

3. Nominal power in kilowatts

4. Maximum engine speed

5. Weight in kilograms

6. Year of manufacture

7. Serial number

8. Model

9. Manufacturer’s name and address and authorized

2000/14/EC conformity mark

representative

3.2kW

Record the frame and engine serial numbers in the space below. You will need these numbers when ordering parts and when making technical or warranty inquires.

Frame serial number:___________________________ Engine serial number:___________________________ Date of purchase:______/______/______

ENGLISH

[15]

[8]

[17]

1 Blade control lever 11 2 Handlebar 12 Smart Drive control

3 Fuel tank cap 13 Throttle lever 4 Mower deck 14 Handlebar adjust knob (2) 5 Muffler 15 Fuel valve 6 Oil filler cap 16 Air cleaner 7 Engine serial number 17 Carburetor 8 Cutting height adjustment lever (4) 18 Spark plug cap 9 Grass bag 19 Clip Director knob

10 Recoil starter 20 Discharge guard

[16]

B [LABEL]

Roto-Stop

button

SET-UP

UNPACKING

Remove all the cardboard from around the handlebar.

HANDLEBAR SETUP

[1] (2)

[2]

1. Turn the handlebar adjust knobs [1] 90 degrees into the unlock position [2].

2. Move the handlebar into the mowing position so that the locating pins align with either the upper, middle, or lower holes on the handlebar mounting brackets.

3. Turn the adjust knobs 90 degrees into the lock position [3] and the pins will snap into the holes and lock into position.

GRASS BAG ASSEMBLY

Slide the grass bag frame [1] into the grass bag [2] and install the plastic clips [3] as shown.

[2]

[3]

[1]

[3]

Lift the discharge guard and install the grass bag.

ENGINE OIL

The mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL in the engine.

Add enough SAE 10W-30 API service category SJ or later oil to bring the oil level between the upper limit [2] and lower limit [3] marks on the dipstick [1] as shown.

Do not overfill the engine with oil. If the engine is

overfilled, the excess oil may get transferred to the air cleaner housing and air filter.

[1]

[2] [3]

FUEL

Refer to page 7.

BEFORE USING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Before using the lawn mower, all mower operators must read the following chapters:

• SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (page 2)

•CONTROLS (page 5)

• PRE-OPERATION CHECKS (page 6)

• OPERATION (page 9)

• MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (page 13)

ENGLISH

CONTROLS

Fuel Valve

The fuel valve [1] opens and closes the connection between the fuel tank and the carburetor.

OFF

Throttle Lever

The throttle lever [1] controls the following functions:

[1]

Smart Drive Control

The Smart Drive control [1] can be adjusted up or down into any one of five positions.

1. Slide the multi-position adjuster [2] to the left to unlock the control.

2. Move the Smart Drive control up or down into the position most comfortable.

3. Release the multi-position adjuster and allow it to engage.

Do not attempt to adjust the position of the Smart Drive control while the mower is in motion.

CONTROL

™

[1]

[2]

Cutting Height Adjustment Levers

There are seven adjustment settings. The cutting height figures are approximate. The actual height of cut grass will vary with lawn and soil conditions.

20 mm

32 mm

46 mm

62 mm

75 mm

88 mm

100 mm

FAST For starting the engine and for mowing.

SLOW For idling the engine.

STOP For stopping the engine.

Blade Control System

Blade rotation is controlled by the Roto-Stop button [1] and the blade control lever [2].

Hold the Roto-Stop button down, and then pull the blade control lever against the handlebar to engage the blade. Then release the Roto-Stop button.

[1]

STOP

[1]

[2]

There is one adjustment lever [1] for each wheel.

Clip Director Knob

The Clip Director knob [1] controls bagging, mulching, and rear discharge. The knob has ten adjustment positions.

[1]

ENGLISH

PRE-OPERATION CHECKS

CHECK YOUR LAWN

For your safety and for the safety of others, always inspect the area before mowing.

Objects

Anything that can be picked up by the blades and thrown is a potential hazard to you and others. Look for things like stones, sticks, bones, and wire. Remove them from the mowing area.

People and Pets

People and animals near the mowing area can move into your path or into a position where they could be struck by thrown objects. Clear the area of people, especially children, and pets. Their safety is your responsibility.

Lawn

Check the length and condition of the grass, so that you will know what cutting height and mowing speed to use.

Avoid mowing wet grass. Not only will wet grass clog your mower deck and collect in clumps on the lawn, it also gives poor traction, increasing your risk of losing your footing.

CHECK YOUR MOWER Blades

1. Move the throttle lever to the STOP position (page 5).

2. Move the fuel valve to the OFF position (page 5) and disconnect the spark plug cap from the spark plug (page 14).

3. Tilt the mower to the right so the fuel cap is up [1]. This will help prevent fuel leakage, motor oil seeping into the air filter, and hard starting.

4. Inspect the blades [2] for damage, cracks, and excessive wear, rust, or corrosion.

[2]

[1]

B 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. Inspect the blade regularly. Do not operate the mower with

a worn or damaged blade.

A dull blade can be sharpened, but a blade that is worn out, bent, cracked, or otherwise damaged must be replaced. 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 dealer. Or, if you have a torque wrench, you can remove and install the blades yourself.

Check that the blade bolts are tight (page 16).

Engine Oil Level

Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and the mower on a level surface.

Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets or exceeds the requirements for API service category SJ or later. Always check the API SERVICE label on the oil container to be sure it includes the letters SJ or later.

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.

NOTICE

• Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.

• Using nondetergent oil can shorten the engine’s service life, and using 2-stroke oil can damage the engine.

1. Remove the oil filler

cap/dipstick [1], and wipe the dipstick clean.

2. Insert the dipstick into the

filler neck. Do not screw it down. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.

5W-30 • 10W-30

40 60 100°F80020

-20 20 30 40°C-10 0 10

AMBIENT TEMPERATURE

[1]

NORMAL

EXCESSIVELY

WORN

BENT

CRACKED

3. If the oil level is near the

low level mark [3], add the recommended oil to bring the level up to the high limit mark [2]. Do not overfill.

4. Install and tighten the

filler cap/dipstick [1] securely.

ENGLISH

[1]

[2] [3]

Fuel

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded petrol with a research octane rating of 91 or higher.

Refuel in a well-ventilated area before starting the engine. If the engine has been running, allow it to cool. Never refuel the mower inside a building where petrol fumes may reach flames or sparks.

You may use regular unleaded petrol 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 by warranty.

If your equipment will be used on an infrequent or intermittent basis, please refer to the fuel section of the STORAGE chapter (page 18) for additional information regarding fuel deterioration.

B WARNING

Petrol is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.

• Wipe up spills immediately.

Air Cleaner Inspection

Remove cover [1]. Make sure the filter [2] is clean and in good condition. A dirty air filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. Refer to page 14 for air cleaner service.

[2]

[1]

Rear Shield

During normal use the rear shield [1] is subject to deterioration and wear. Remove the grass bag and raise the discharge guard [2] 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.

[2]

Never use stale or contaminated petrol or an oil/petrol mixture. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

NOTICE

Fuel can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under warranty.

Remove the tank cap [1] and check the fuel level. Refill the tank if the fuel level is low. Refuel carefully to avoid spilling fuel. Do not overfill; there should be no fuel in the filler neck [2].

After refueling, tighten the fuel tank cap securely.

Move the mower at least 3 meters away from the fueling source and site before starting the engine.

[1]

[2]

[1]

Handlebar Height Adjustment

Adjust handlebar height to a comfortable operating position (page 4).

ENGLISH

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.

Inspection

During normal use, the grass bag material is subject to deterioration and wear.

NOTICE

Frequently inspect the grass bag for tears, holes, and excessive wear. Check for necessary replacement. Make sure the new bag meets the original specifications.

If the grass bag needs replacement, you can remove and install a bag yourself (page 17).

Installation

1. Raise the discharge guard [1], and use the

[2]

[3]

grass bag handle [3] to hook the grass bag [2] onto the mower deck as shown.

2. Release the discharge guard to secure the grass bag.

Removal

1. Raise the discharge guard, grasp the grass bag handle, and remove the grass bag.

2. Release the discharge guard.

3. When the grass bag is clear of the discharge guard, you can lift it through the handlebar opening, or you can remove it to the rear of the mower below the handlebar.

Cutting Height

Check the mower deck cutting height settings, and be sure that all four adjustment levers [1] are set to the same cutting height position.

[1]

Clip Direction

Clip Director Knob Adjustment

Adjust the Clip Director knob [1] in any one of the 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 [2] from the fully open BAG position to the fully closed MULCH position (see the following page).

[1]

DISCHARGE

[2] (fully closed)

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTION

Always turn the engine off and disconnect the spark plug cap before lifting the discharge guard to view or clean around the sliding door. This will prevent contact with the rotating blades and prevent objects from being thrown into the discharge area.

Some grass accumulation in the discharge opening is normal when the Clip Director is fully closed. To remove this grass, close the discharge guard, fully open the Clip Director, start the engine, and engage the blade control lever several times.

If a high resistance is noticed when moving the Clip Director knob from side-to-side, excessive grass may have built up on top of the sliding door.

Sliding Door Position

The sliding door [2] can be positioned to produce different mowing results. If the preferred sliding door position is unknown, install a grass bag and begin mowing with the Clip Director knob [1] 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.

BAGGING OR REAR DISCHARGE

AND SOME MULCHING

[1]

GUARD

To adjust cutting height, pull each adjustment lever [1] 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.

[1]

20 mm

32 mm

46 mm

62 mm

75 mm

[2] (50% open)

88 mm

100 mm

ENGLISH

+ 16 hidden pages