Honda Automobiles HRR216VXA User Manual
Owner's Manual
Rotary Mower
HRR216VXA
See page 44 for instructions on
setting up your Lawn Mower.
© 2005–2006 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.—All Rights Reserved
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.
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 lawn 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. That information is intended to help you avoid
damage to your lawn mower, other property, or the environment.
We suggest you read the Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 57) and
the Emission Control System Warranty (page 59) to fully understand
its coverage and your responsibilities of ownership.
When your lawn mower needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind
that your Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda
lawn mowers. Your Honda servicing dealer is dedicated to your
satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and
concerns.
Best Wishes,
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Power Equipment Division
1
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. You
must use your own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms including:
• Safety Labels—on the lawn mower.
• Safety Messages—preceded by a safety alert symbol and
three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
• Safety Headings—
• Safety Section—such as LAWN MOWER SAFETY
• Instructions—how to use this lawn mower correctly and safely
This entire book is filled with important safety information—please read
it carefully.
such as IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
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.
one of
2
CONTENTS
LAWN MOWER SAFETY ............................................................................................4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ................................................................4
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO PARENTS ..............................................................5
SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS ..............................................................................6
CONTROLS & FEATURES .........................................................................................7
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS ...........................................................7
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS ..........................................................................8
BEFORE OPERATION ..............................................................................................11
ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED? ............................................................11
IS YOUR LAWN MOWER READY TO GO? .......................................................11
CHECK YOUR WORK AREA .............................................................................12
GET THE LAWN MOWER READY ....................................................................13
OPERATION ..............................................................................................................15
MOWING PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................15
STARTING THE ENGINE ...................................................................................15
OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING ................................................16
STOPPING THE ENGINE .................................................................................17
SAFE MOWING PRACTICES ............................................................................17
MOWING TIPS ...................................................................................................19
SERVICING YOUR MOWER .....................................................................................22
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER MAINTENANCE ..........................................22
MAINTENANCE SAFETY ...................................................................................23
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE .............................................................................24
BLADES ..............................................................................................................25
GRASS BAG CLEANING AND REPLACEMENT ...............................................28
ENGINE MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................29
CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENTS ..................................................................34
FUEL SYSTEM ...................................................................................................35
STORAGE .................................................................................................................37
PREPARING FOR STORAGE ............................................................................37
PLACING IN STORAGE .....................................................................................40
REMOVING FROM STORAGE ..........................................................................40
TRANSPORTING ......................................................................................................41
BEFORE LOADING ............................................................................................41
LOADING AND UNLOADING .............................................................................41
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS .....................................................42
ENGINE WILL NOT START ...............................................................................42
LOSS OF POWER ..............................................................................................42
VIBRATION PROBLEMS ....................................................................................43
MOWING AND BAGGING PROBLEMS .............................................................43
SET-UP ......................................................................................................................44
ASSEMBLY ........................................................................................................44
ENGINE OIL .......................................................................................................46
BEFORE OPERATION .......................................................................................46
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION ..........................................................47
TECHNICAL INFORMATION .............................................................................47
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM ........................................................................50
SPECIFICATIONS ..............................................................................................53
CONSUMER INFORMATION .............................................................................55
INDEX ........................................................................................................................63
QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION ..............................................inside back cover
3
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. If you need to adjust the cutting height, or work
around the deck for any other reason, always shut off the engine. Wear
heavy gloves and disconnect the spark plug cap when you need to
clean the mower deck or handle the blade.
Clear Mowing Area
Mower blades can throw rocks and other objects with enough force to
cause serious injury. Before mowing, carefully inspect the area and
remove all sticks, stones, pieces of wire, and other loose objects.
Never operate the blade over gravel.
Keep Shields in Place
Guards and shields are designed to protect you from being hit by
thrown objects and from hot engine parts and moving components. For
your safety and the safety of others, keep all shields in place when the
engine is running.
Refuel with Care
Gasoline is extremely flammable and gasoline vapor can explode.
Refuel only outdoors, in a well-ventilated area, with the engine OFF.
Never smoke near gasoline, and keep other flames and sparks away.
Always store gasoline in an approved container.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing will reduce your risk of injury. Long pants
and eye protection reduce the risk of injuries from thrown objects.
Sturdy shoes with aggressive soles will help protect your feet and give
you better traction on slopes or uneven ground.
Turn Engine Off When Not Mowing
If you need to leave the mower for any reason, even just to inspect the
lawn ahead, always turn the engine OFF.
4
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.
The first question you’ll need to ask is whether your child is capable of
operating this mower safely. Remember, young people vary widely,
and AGE IS NOT THE ONLY FACTOR.
Physically, a child must be LARGE ENOUGH AND STRONG
ENOUGH to easily start the mower and control its direction. The child
also needs enough size, strength, and coordination to comfortably
reach and operate the controls.
Another, tougher question you need to ask is if your child has enough
MATURITY AND RESPONSIBILITY to safely operate this mower.
Does the young person think through problems and come to logical
solutions? Be honest! Anyone who takes unnecessary risks and
doesn’t obey rules should not operate this lawn mower.
If you decide that your son or daughter can handle the mower safely,
CAREFULLY READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL with your child. Make
sure you both understand all instructions and safety information. Also,
be sure your child wears sturdy shoes and other protective clothing
when operating or handling the mower.
SUPERVISION is also very important. Walk with your child during the
first few minutes of mowing. Even after the child has become confident
with the mower, do not let the young person use the mower without
good adult supervision. An adult should also be present during
refueling and maintenance. In fact, it’s up to parents to make sure that
the mower is properly maintained and kept in safe operating condition.
By always placing safety first, your child will acquire useful skills and a
sense of accomplishment. And you’ll both get the best results from
your lawn mower.
5
LAWN MOWER SAFETY
SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS
The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please
read them carefully. These labels are considered permanent parts of
your mower. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an
authorized Honda dealer for a replacement.
WARNING WARNING
UNDER NORMAL USAGE, THIS BAG MATERIAL IS
CAUTION
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.
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. OBJECTS THROWN BY BLADE
Follow all instructions in Owner's Manual.
Go across slopes, not up and down.
Do not mow when children or others are
around.
Look down and behind, before and
while moving backwards.
Keep safety devices (guards, shields,
switches, etc.) in place and working.
CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
Inspect area and remove
debris before mowing.
Keep children and others away.
Wear eye protection.
Do not operate unless bag or
chute are installed or guard is
in place.
DANGER
KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY
6
AY
W
ANGER
D
KEEP HANDS and FEET A
CAUTION
HOT MUFFLER CAN BURN YOU.
Stay away if engine has been running.
CONTROLS & FEATURES
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS
Use this illustration to locate and identify frequently used controls.
MULCHING PLUG
SMART DRIVE™
CONTROL
ROTOSTOP®
LEVER
REAR
DISCHARGE
GUARD
BLADE CONTROL
LEVER
THROTTLE
LEVER
FUEL TANK CAP
STARTER
GRIP
CUTTING
HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
FUEL VALVE
AIR CLEANER
CARBURETOR
GRASS
BAG
HANDLEBAR
LOCKING
KNOB (2)
OIL FILLER CAP
MUFFLER
SPARK PLUG CAP
CUTTING HEIGHT
ADJUSTMENT LEVERS
7
CONTROLS & FEATURES
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS
Fuel Valve
The fuel valve controls fuel flow from the fuel tank to the carburetor.
The fuel valve must be ON to start and operate the mower. The fuel
valve should be kept OFF when the mower is not in use.
FUEL VALVE
OFF
ON
Throttle Lever
CHOKE For starting a cold engine.
FAST For restarting a warm engine and for mowing.
SLOW For idling the engine.
STOP For stopping the engine
FAST
SLOW
STOP
CHOKE
P
STO
W
O
SL
FAST
CHOKE
8
THROTTLE LEVER
Blade Control System
Blade rotation is controlled by the
blade control lever and the
Roto-Stop® lever.
Hold the blade control lever against
the handlebar and push the
Roto-Stop lever to engage the
blade.
SMART DRIVE™ Control
The SMART DRIVE™ control
engages and disengages the
transmission that drives the rear
wheels.
Ground speed is determined by the
amount of pressure applied to the
Smart Drive control.
CONTROLS & FEATURES
BLADE CONTROL LEVER
ROTO-STOP
LEVER
SMART DRIVE CONTROL
9
CONTROLS & FEATURES
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers
The mower deck height can be set to any of the seven approximate
settings. Each wheel should be adjusted to the same position. To lower
the deck, move the adjusters backward. To raise the deck, move the
adjusters forward.
FRONT WHEELS:
Each front wheel has an
independent adjustment lever.
REAR WHEELS:
Both rear wheels are adjusted by
a single adjustment lever located
near the left rear wheel.
FRONT
ADJUSTMENT LEVER (2)
REAR
ADJUSTMENT LEVER
10
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.
IS YOUR LAWN MOWER READY TO GO?
For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your lawn mower, it
is very important to take a few moments before you operate the lawn
mower 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
lawn mower.
WARNING
Improperly maintaining this lawn mower, or
failing to correct a problem before
operation, could cause a malfunction in
which you could be seriously injured.
Always perform a pre-operation inspection
before each operation, and correct any
problem.
Before beginning your pre-operation checks, be sure the lawn mower
is on a level surface.
11
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 25).
Check that the blade bolts are tight (page 27).
• Check that all nuts, bolts, screws are tightened.
Check the Engine
• Check the air cleaner (page 31) and oil level (page 29).
• Check the fuel level (page 35). Starting with a full tank will help to
eliminate or reduce operating interruptions for refueling.
CHECK YOUR WORK AREA
For your safety and the safety of others, always inspect the area
before operating the lawn mower.
Objects
Anything which can be picked up by the blade and thrown is a potential
hazard to you and others. Look for things like stones, sticks, nails, and
wire, and remove them from the work area.
People and Pets
People and animals near the work area can move into your lawn
mower’s 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.
Work Area
Check the condition of the grass. Adjust your lawn mower ground
speed and mowing swath accordingly.
12
GET THE LAWN MOWER READY
3/4 in (20 mm)
1-1/4 in (32 mm)
2 in (46 mm)
2-1/2 in (62 mm)
3 in (75 mm)
3-1/2 in (88 mm)
4 in (100 mm)
BEFORE OPERATION
Mulching Plug
The mulching plug helps to curve
the inside of the mower deck for
more efficient mulching.
Install and remove the mulching
plug by raising the rear discharge
guard as shown. The mulching plug
only fits one way. Remove the
mulching plug when using a grass
bag.
Cutting Height
Set all three adjustment levers to
the same cutting height position.
Each position changes the height
approximately 1/2 inch (13 mm).
To adjust the 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. Readjust the cutting height if
necessary.
REAR
DISCHARGE
GUARD
MULCHING
PLUG
FRONT
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER (2)
REAR
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
13
BEFORE OPERATION
Handlebar Height
The handlebar height can be adjusted to either one of the two height
positions. See “Handlebar Setup” on page 44 for details.
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% full. Also,
the bag is easier to empty when not packed full.
Inspection
Inspect the grass bag before use. Check for holes, tears, and
excessive wear. The grass bag does wear during normal use, and will
eventually require replacement (page 28).
Installation
1. Raise the rear discharge
guard and remove the mulching plug. Hook the grass bag
GRASS BAG
HANDLE
REAR
DISCHARGE
GUARD
frame onto the mower deck as
shown.
2. Release the rear discharge
guard to secure the grass bag
in place.
Removal
1. Raise the rear discharge
guard, grasp the grass bag
handle, and remove the grass
bag.
2. Release the rear discharge
guard.
3. When the grass bag is clear of the rear discharge, you can lift the
grass bag through the handlebars or remove it from the rear of the
mower below the handlebar.
14
OPERATION
E
MOWING PRECAUTIONS
Before operating the mower for the first time, please review the LAWN
MOWER SAFETY chapter beginning on page 4 and the BEFORE
OPERATION chapter beginning on 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. Your mower’s exhaust contains poisonous
carbon monoxide gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed area
and cause illness or death.
STARTING THE ENGINE
Before starting the engine, the Smart Drive control must be released,
preventing the mower from moving forward.
1. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.
FUEL VALV
ON
2. Move the throttle lever to CHOKE for a cold engine, or FAST for a
warm engine.
FAST
CHOKE
STOP
SLOW
FAST
E
K
O
H
C
P
TO
S
SLOW
FAST
CHOKE
COLD ENGINE WARM ENGINE
15
OPERATION
L
FAST
3. With the blade control lever
released, pull the starter grip
STARTER
GRIP
lightly until you feel resistance,
then pull briskly. Return the
starter grip gently.
4. If the CHOKE position was
used during starting, move the
throttle lever away from the
CHOKE position as soon as
the engine warms up enough
to run smoothly. Set the throttle lever at FAST to mow or at SLOW
to idle.
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 as the blades
could fracture and come apart.
STOP
SLOW
FAST
CHOKE
THROTTLE
BLADE
CONTRO
LEVER
LEVER
Blade Control System
Blade rotation is controlled by the blade
control lever and the
Roto-Stop lever.
1. Hold the blade control lever against
the handlebar.
2. With the throttle lever in the FAST
position, push the Roto-Stop lever
forward until it reaches the end stop.
16
ROTOSTOP
LEVER
BLADE CONTROL LEVER
OPERATION
3. Release the Roto-Stop lever when the blades are engaged.
4. Continue to hold the blade control lever against the handlebar to
maintain blade rotation.
5. Release the blade control lever to stop blade rotation. Always
release the blade control lever before starting the engine to prevent
the blades from turning.
Smart Drive Control
With the engine running and the
blades rotating, slowly push the
Smart Drive control to propel the
mower forward.
Ground speed will increase as
more pressure is applied to the
Smart Drive control. Select a
comfortable speed considering the
mowing conditions.
Release the Smart Drive control to disengage the rear wheels.
SMART DRIVE CONTROL
STOPPING THE ENGINE
BLADE CONTROL LEVER
1. Release the blade control lever
to stop blade rotation.
2. Move the throttle lever to the
STOP position to stop the
STOP
engine.
3. When the mower is not in use,
turn the fuel valve to OFF.
THROTTLE LEVER
SAFE MOWING PRACTICES
For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground, and be careful to
avoid losing your footing and 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 push the
mower with your foot. Use the handlebar only
17
OPERATION
.
WARNING
The blades are sharp and spin at high speed.
A spinning blade can cut you severely and can
amputate fingers and toes.
• Wear protective footwear
• Keep your hands and feet away from the
mower deck while the engine is running.
• Stop the engine before performing any
adjustment, inspection, or maintenance.
Slopes
Mow across slopes, not up and
down. Avoid steep slopes (more
than 20°), and be careful when
changing direction. Mowing on a
slope when the grass is damp or wet
could cause you to slip, fall, and lose
control of the mower.
Obstacles
Use the side of the mower to cut
close to obstacles, such as fences
or walls. Release the Smart Drive
control to disengage the drive when mowing around trees and other
obstacles for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over
obstacles embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving,
edging, etc. Avoid anything sticking up above the surface of the lawn.
If the blade hits something, or if the mower starts to vibrate, stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug cap, and check for
damage (page 25). Striking objects may damage the blade, bend the
crankshaft, and/or break the mower deck or other components.
Vibration usually indicates serious trouble.
18
OPERATION
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 blades regularly, and do not operate
the mower with a worn or damaged blade.
The Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 57) does not cover parts
damaged by accident or collision.
Gravel and Loose Objects
Gravel, loose stones, and landscaping material can be picked up by
the mower and thrown many feet with enough force to cause serious
personal injury and/or property damage. The best way to prevent
potential injury from thrown objects is to release the blade control lever
to stop the blade before reaching areas with gravel, loose stones, or
landscaping material.
MOWING TIPS
When to Mow
Most grasses should be mowed when they
have grown ½ to 1 inch above their
recommended height. More frequent mowing is required for mulching
than for bagging. For best mulching 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.
Most grass has stems and leaves. If you cut off the
leaves, you’ll scalp the lawn. Let the grass recover
between mowings. Your mower will work better,
and your lawn will look better.
LONG ENOUGH
TOO SHORT
19
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