Honda Power Equipment GC160 User Manual 2

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. American Honda Motor
Co., 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.

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.

SAFETY MESSAGES

Your safety and the safety of others is 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

B and one of three words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

These signal words mean:

B DANGER
B WARNING

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.

OWNER’S MANUAL

MANUEL DE L’UTILISATEUR

MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO

GC160 • GC190

B WARNING: B

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects, or

other reproductive harm.

IPC

ENGLISHFRANÇAISESPAÑOL

B CAUTION

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 CAN be HURT if you don't follow

You will also see other important messages that are preceded by the
word NOTICE.

This word means:

NOTICE

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.

SAFETY 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.

• 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 3 feet (1 meter) away from buildings and other
equipment during operation. Keep flammable materials away, and
do not place anything on the engine while it is running.

© 2003–2009 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. —All Rights Reserved

31Z8A023
00X31-Z8A-0230

EM5

POM31Z8A023
IPC. 35000.2009.09
PRINTED IN U.S.A.

CONTENTS

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

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

COMPONENT & CONTROL

LOCATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS .2

IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO

GO?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

SAFE OPERATING

PRECAUTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . .2

TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE /

TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE /

TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE /

OIL ALERT® SYSTEM . . . . . . .4

SERVICING YOUR ENGINE. . . . .4

THE IMPORTANCE OF

MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . .4

MAINTENANCE SAFETY . . . . .4

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . .5

REFUELING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

ENGINE OIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

ENGLISH

MANUAL CHOKE . . . .3

IGNITION SWITCH

/

LEVER

MANUAL CHOKE . . . .3

ENGINE STOP
SWITCH /
MANUAL CHOKE . . .4

AIR CLEANER. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SPARK PLUG . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SPARK ARRESTER

(OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT) . . . 7

STORING YOUR ENGINE. . . . . . 7

TRANSPORTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

TAKING CARE OF

UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS . . . . 8

TECHNICAL INFORMATION. . . . 9

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION 9

CARBURETOR

MODIFICATIONS FOR HIGH

ALTITUDE OPERATION . . . . . 9

EMISSION CONTROL

SYSTEM INFORMATION . . . . 9

SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . 10

CONSUMER INFORMATION . . 11

DISTRIBUTOR/DEALER

LOCATOR INFORMATION . . 11

Honda PUBLICATIONS . . . . . 11

CUSTOMER SERVICE

INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . 11

DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED

WARRANTIES. . . . . . . . . . . . 11

EMISSION CONTROL

SYSTEM WARRANTY. . . . . . 13

INTERNATIONAL

WARRANTY. . . . . . LAST PAGE

1

COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATION BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS

IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO?

MUFFLER

MUFFLER
DEFLECTOR
(optional)

AIR
CLEANER

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.

B WARNING

OIL FILLER CAP/

OIL DRAIN
BOLT

FUEL
FILLER
CAP

FUEL
TANK

ENGINE CONTROL TYPES

TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE / MANUAL CHOKE

CHOKE ROD

THROTTLE
LEVER (gray)

Used on engines with
an adjustable throttle
lever.

TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE / IGNITION SWITCH LEVER / MANUAL CHOKE

CHOKE ROD

IGNITION SWITCH
LEVER (red)

Used on engines with a
non-adjustable throttle
lever.

TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE / ENGINE STOP SWITCH / MANUAL CHOKE

ENGINE
STOP
SWITCH

CHOKE ROD

DIPSTICK

SPARK PLUG

STARTER
GRIP

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 throttle lever (ignition switch lever or engine stop switch)
is in the STOP position.

Always check the following items before you start the engine:

1. Fuel level (see page 5).

2. Oil level (see page 6).
The Oil Alert

®

system (applicable engine types) will automatically
stop the engine before the oil level falls below safe limits. However,
to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown, always
check the engine oil level before startup.

3. Air cleaner (see page 6).

4. General inspection: Check for fluid leaks and loose or damaged
parts.

5. 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.

OPERATION

SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS

Before operating the engine for the first time, please review the

SAFETY INFORMATION section on page 1 and the BEFORE
OPERATION CHECKS above.

For your safety, do not operate the engine in an enclosed area such
as a garage. Your engine’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon
monoxide gas that can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause
illness or death.

B WARNING

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can
build up to dangerous levels in closed areas. Breathing
carbon monoxide can cause unconsciousness or death.

Never run the engine in a closed or even partially closed
area where people may be present.

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.

Do not operate the engine on slopes greater than 20°.

2

ENGLISH

TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE / MANUAL CHOKE
Starting The Engine

1. Pull the choke rod to the
CLOSED position (cold
engine).

CHOKE ROD

OPEN

CLOSED

TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE / IGNITION SWITCH LEVER /

MANUAL CHOKE

Starting The Engine

1. Pull the choke rod to the
CLOSED position (cold
engine).

CHOKE ROD

OPEN

CLOSED

2. Move the throttle lever (gray)
away from the SLOW

THROTTLE
LEVER (gray)

position, about 1/3 of the way
toward the FAST position.

Some engine applications

FAST

use a remotely-mounted
throttle control rather than
the engine-mounted throttle
lever shown here.

SLOW

3. Pull the starter grip lightly until
resistance is felt, then pull
briskly.

NOTICE

Do not allow the starter grip to
snap back against the engine.
Return it gently to prevent
damage to the starter.

STARTER GRIP

4. If the choke rod was pulled to the CLOSED position to start the
engine, push it to the OPEN position as soon as the engine warms
up enough to run smoothly.

Throttle Setting

Position the throttle control
lever (gray) for the desired
engine speed. For best engine
performance, it is
recommended the engine be
operated with the throttle in the
FAST (or high) position.

Stopping The Engine

1. Move the throttle lever (gray)
to the SLOW position.

2. Allow the engine to idle for a
few seconds, then move the
throttle lever to the STOP
position.

FAST

SLOW

THROTTLE
LEVER (gray)

THROTTLE
LEVER (gray)

FAST

2. Move the ignition switch lever
(red) to the ON position.

Some engine applications use

IGNITION SWITCH
LEVER (red)

ON

a remote-mounted ignition
switch rather than the engine­mounted ignition switch lever
shown here.

3. Pull the starter grip lightly until
resistance is felt, then pull
briskly.

NOTICE

Do not allow the starter grip to
snap back against the engine.
Return it gently to prevent
damage to the starter.

STARTER GRIP

4. If the choke rod was pulled to the CLOSED position to start the
engine, push it to the OPEN position as soon as the engine warms
up enough to run smoothly.

5. The engine speed is preset on this type.

Stopping The Engine

Move the ignition switch lever
(red) to the OFF position.

OFF

STOP

ENGLISH

3

TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE / ENGINE STOP SWITCH /

MANUAL CHOKE

Starting The Engine

1. Pull the choke rod to the
CLOSED position (cold
engine).

CHOKE ROD

SERVICING YOUR ENGINE

THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE

Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical and trouble-free
operation. It will also help reduce pollution.

B WARNING

OPEN

CLOSED

2. Move the engine stop switch
to the ON position.

Some engine applications
use a remote-mounted
ignition switch rather than
the engine-mounted engine
stop switch shown here.

3. Pull the starter grip lightly until
resistance is felt, then pull
briskly.

NOTICE

Do not allow the starter grip to
snap back against the engine.
Return it gently to prevent
damage to the starter.

4. If the choke rod was pulled to
the CLOSED position to start
the engine, push it to the OPEN
position as soon as the engine
warms up enough to run
smoothly.

5. The engine speed is preset on this type.

ENGINE
STOP
SWITCH

OFF

ON

STARTER GRIP

Stopping The Engine

Move the engine stop switch to the OFF position.

OIL ALERT® SYSTEM

The Oil Alert system is designed to prevent engine damage caused by
an insufficient amount of oil in the crankcase. Before the oil level in
the crankcase can fall below a safe limit, the Oil Alert system will
automatically stop the engine [the throttle lever (ignition switch lever)
will remain in a run position].

If the engine stops and will not restart, check the engine oil level
(page 6) before troubleshooting in other areas.

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.

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 Honda
Genuine parts or their equivalents for repair and replacement.

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.

B WARNING

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and
precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this
owner’s manual.

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.

4

ENGLISH

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Perform at every

ITEM

Engine oil

Air filter

Spark plug
Spark arrester Clean O7

Idle speed Check-adjust O(3)
Fuel tank and filter Clean O(3)
Valve clearance Check-adjust O(3)
Fuel tube Check

Combustion
chamber

indicated month or
operating hour
interval, whichever
comes first.

Check O6
Change OO (2) 6
Check O

Replace O
Check-adjust O
Replace O

Clean After every 250 hours (3)

REGULAR SERVICE PERIOD (4)

Every 6

Before

Each

Us e

Every 3

First

M on th

or

5 Hrs

(Replace if necessary) (3)

Months

Months

or

50 Hrs

25 Hrs

Every 2 years

or

Every

Year

or

100 Hrs

Every

Two

Years

or 250

Hrs

Page

6Clean O (1)

6

Shop

manual

Shop

manual

Shop

manual

Shop

manual

Shop

manual

REFUELING

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump
octane rating of 86 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 can reach flames or sparks.

Y ou may use regular unleaded gasoline cont aining 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 7) for
additional information regarding fuel deterioration.

(1) Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
(2) Change engine oil every 25 hours when used under heavy load

or in high ambient temperatures.

(3) These items should be serviced by an authorized Honda

servicing dealer, unless you have the proper tools and are
mechanically proficient. Refer to the Honda shop manual for
service procedures.

(4) For commercial use, log hours of operation to determine proper

maintenance intervals.

Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in non­warrantable failures.

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 (see
page 11).

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

1. Remove the fuel tank cap.

2. Add fuel to the bottom of the

B WARNING

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.

NOTICE

fuel level limit in the neck of
the fuel tank. Do not overfill.
Wipe up spilled fuel before
starting the engine.

3. After refueling, tighten the

fuel tank cap.
a. Non-tether type:

Tighten the cap securely.

b. Tether type:

Tighten the cap until it
clicks.

Move at least 10 feet (3 meters)
away from the fueling source
and site before starting the
engine

ENGLISH

MAXIMUM FUEL LEVEL

FUEL TANK
CAP

TETHER

5

ENGINE OIL
Recommended Oil

Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets
or exceeds the requirements for
API service category 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

5W-30 • 10W-30

40 60 100°F80020

-20 20 30 40°C-10 0 10

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.

30

Oil Level Check

1. Check the oil with the engine stopped and level.

2. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.

AIR CLEANER

A dirty air cleaner will restrict air flow to the carburetor and cause poor
engine performance. Inspect the filter each time the engine is
operated. You will need to clean the filter more frequently if you
operate the engine in very dusty areas.

NOTICE

Operating the engine without an air filter, or with a damaged filter, will
allow dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear. This type of
damage is not covered under the DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED
WARRANTY (see page 11).

Inspection

1. Press the latch
tabs on the top of
the air cleaner
cover, and remove
the cover. Check
the filter to be sure
it is clean and in
good condition.

2. Reinstall the filter
and air cleaner
cover.

AIR
CLEANER
COVER

TABS

AIR
DUCT

AIR CLEANER
BODY

LATCH TABS

FILTER

OIL FILLER CAP/
DIPSTICK

OIL FILL HOLE
(bottom edge)

UPPER LIMIT
LOWER LIMIT

Oil Change

Drain the engine oil when the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly
and completely.

1. Place a suitable container
next to the engine to catch
the used oil.

2. Remove the oil filler cap/
dipstick, the oil drain plug
and washer.

3. Allow the used oil to drain
completely, then reinstall
the drain plug and new
washer. 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 or pour it on the ground or down a drain.

4. With the engine in a level position, fill to the upper limit mark
(bottom edge of the oil fill hole) on the dipstick with the
recommended oil (see page 6) Do not overfill.

NOTICE

Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
This type of damage is not covered by the DISTRIBUTOR’S

LIMITED WARRANTY.

5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick securely.

SEALING
WASHER

OIL FILLER
CAP/
DIPSTICK

DRAIN
PLUG

Cleaning

1. Tap the filter several times on a hard surface to remove dirt, or
blow compressed air [not exceeding [30 psi (207 kPa, 2.1 kg/cm²)]
through the filter from the clean side that faces the engine. Never
try to brush off dirt. Brushing will force dirt into the fibers.

2. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner body and cover using a moist rag. Be
careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct that leads to the
carburetor.

SPARK PLUG

Recommended Spark Plug: NGK BPR6ES

The recommended spark plug is the correct heat range for normal
engine operating temperatures.

NOTICE

Incorrect spark plugs can cause engine damage.

For good performance, the spark
plug must be properly gapped and
free of deposits.

1. Disconnect the cap from the
spark plug, and remove any dirt
from the spark plug area.

2. Use the proper size spark plug
wrench to remove the spark
plug.

3. Inspect the spark plug. Replace it if
damaged, badly fouled, if the
sealing washer is in poor condition,
or if the electrode is worn.

4. Measure the electrode gap with a
suitable gauge. The correct gap is

0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.70 ~ 0.80 mm).
If adjustment is needed, correct the
gap by carefully bending the side
electrode.

0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.70 ~ 0.80 mm)

SEALING
WASHER

SPARK PLUG
WRENCH

6

ENGLISH

5. Install the spark plug carefully, by hand, to avoid cross-threading.

6. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with the proper size spark
plug wrench to compress the washer.

7. When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark
plug seats to compress the washer.

8. When reinstalling the original spark plug, tighten 1/8 - 1/4 turn after
the spark plug seats to compress the washer.

NOTICE

A loose spark plug can become very hot and can 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.

SPARK ARRESTER (optional equipment)

The spark arrester my be standard or an optional part, depending on
the engine type. In some areas, it is illegal to operate an engine
without a spark arrester. Check local laws and regulations. A spark
arrester is available from authorized Honda servicing dealers.

The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep it
functioning as designed.

If the engine has been running, the muffler will be hot. Allow it to cool
before servicing the spark arrester.

Removal

1. Remove the three
6 mm bolts from the
muffler protector, and
remove the muffler
protector.

2. Remove the 4 mm screw
from the spark arrester,
and remove the spark
arrester from the muffler.

SPARK
ARRESTER
IDENTIFICATION
PLATE

SPARK
ARRESTER

6 mm BOLT (3)

MUFFLER

4 mm SCREW

MUFFLER
PROTECTOR

Cleaning and Inspection

1. Use a brush to remove carbon
deposits from the spark arrester
screen. Be careful not to damage
the screen. Replace the spark
arrester if it has breaks or holes.

2. Install the spark arrester in the
reverse order of removal.

STORING YOUR ENGINE

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.

NOTICE

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

NOTICE

Depending on the region where you operate your equipment, fuel
formulations may deteriorate and oxidize rapidly. Fuel deterioration
and oxidation can occur in as little as 30 days and may cause damage
to the carburetor and/or fuel system. Please check with your servicing
dealer for local storage recommendations.

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 (see page 11).

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

When adding a gasoline stabilizer, fill the fuel t ank 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

7

Draining The Fuel Tank And Carburetor

B WARNING

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.

• Refuel only outdoors.

• Wipe up spills immediately.

1. Use a siphon pump (commercially available) and siphon the fuel
out of the fuel tank into an approved gasoline container.

2. Place an approved gasoline container below the carburetor, and
use a funnel to avoid spilling fuel.

3. Loosen the carburetor drain screw. and drain the carburetor into an
approved gasoline container. After draining is completed, tighten
the carburetor drain screw.

SIPHON PUMP
(COMMERCIALLY
AVAILABLE)

DRAIN SCREW

FLOAT BOWL

ENGINE OIL

1. Change the engine oil
(see page 6).

2. Remove the spark plug
(see page 6).

3. Pour 1 - 2 teaspoons
(5 - 10 cc) of clean engine oil
into the cylinder.

4. Pull the recoil starter several
times to distribute the oil.

5. Reinstall the spark plug.

STORAGE PRECAUTIONS

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 spark-producing 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.
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 BEFORE OPERATION
CHECKS section of this manual (see page 2).

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

Keep the engine level when transporting to reduce the possibility of
fuel leakage.

Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this
engine for any procedures that should be followed for transporting

TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS

ENGINE WILL NOT START

Possible Cause Correction

Choke open. Pull the choke to the CLOSED

Ignition switch OFF. • Move the throttle lever to the

Engine oil level low (Oil Alert models). Fill with the recommended oil to the

Out of fuel. Refuel.
Bad fuel; engine stored without
treating or draining gasoline, of
refueled with bad gasoline.
Spark plug faulty, fouled, or improperly
gapped.
Spark plug wet with fuel (flooded
engine).

Fuel filter clogged, carburetor
malfunction, ignition malfunction,
valves stuck, etc.

ENGINE LACKS POWER

Possible Cause Correction

Filter clogged. Clean or replace the filter

Bad fuel; engine stored without
treating or draining gasoline, of
refueled with bad gasoline.
Fuel filter clogged, carburetor
malfunction, ignition malfunction,
valves stuck, etc.

position unless the engine is warm.

SLOW or FAST position (page3).

• Move the ignition switch lever to
the ON position (page 3).

• Move the engine stop switch to
the ON position (page 4).

proper level (page 6).

Drain the fuel tank and carburetor
(page 8). Refuel with fresh
gasoline.
Replace the spark plug
(page 6).
Dry and reinstall spark plug. Start
engine with throttle lever in FAST
position (choke in OPEN position).
Take engine to an authorized
Honda servicing dealer, or refer to
shop manual.

(page 6).
Drain the fuel tank and carburetor

(page 8). Refuel with fresh
gasoline.
Take engine to an authorized
Honda servicing dealer, or refer to
shop manual.

8

ENGLISH

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION

Record the engine serial
number in the space
below. You will need this
information when
ordering parts and when
making technical or
warranty inquiries.

SERIAL
NUMBER
AND TYPE
LOCATION

SERIAL NUMBER TYPE

Engine serial number: __ __ __ __ __ – __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Engine type: ___ ___ ___ ___
Date Purchased: ___ / ___ / ___

Radio Frequency Interference Label (Canada)

This engine complies with Canadian radio frequency interference
regulations, ICES-002.

CARBURETOR MODIFICATIONS FOR HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION

At high altitude, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be too
rich. Performance will decrease, and fuel consumption will increase. A
very rich mixture will also foul the spark plug and cause hard starting.
Operation at an altitude that differs from that at which this engine was
certified, for extended periods of time, may increase emissions.

High altitude performance can be improved by specific modifications
to the carburetor. If you always operate your engine at altitudes above
5,000 feet (1,500 meters), have your servicing dealer perform this
carburetor modification. This engine, when operated at high altitude
with the carburetor modifications for high altitude use, will meet each
emission standard throughout its useful life.

Even with carburetor modification, engine horsepower will decrease
about 3.5% for each 1,000-foot (300-meter) increase in altitude. The
effect of altitude on horsepower will be greater than this if no
carburetor modification is made.

NOTICE

When the carburetor has been modified for high altitude operation,
the air-fuel mixture will be too lean for low altitude use. Operation at
altitudes below 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) with a modified carburetor
may cause the engine to overheat and result in serious engine
damage. For use at low altitudes, have your servicing dealer return
the carburetor to original factory specifications.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM INFORMATION
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 appropriate air/fuel ratios and other emissions control
systems to reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide, oxides of
nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Additionally, Honda fuel systems utilize
components and control technologies to reduce evaporative
emissions.

The U.S., California Clean Air Act, and Environment
Canada

EPA, California, 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.

• 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, California, and Canadian
emission regulations. We recommend the use of Honda Genuine
parts whenever you have maintenance done. These original-design
replacement parts are manufactured to the same standards as the
original parts, so you can be confident of their performance. 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 5. Remember that this
schedule is based on the assumption that your machine will be used
for its designed purpose. Sustained high-load or high-temperature
operation, or use in unusually wet or dusty conditions, will require
more frequent service.

ENGLISH

9

Air Index

An Air Index Information hang tag/label is applied to engines certified
to an emission durability time period in accordance with the
requirements of the California Air Resources Board.

The bar graph is intended to provide you, our customer, the ability to
compare the emissions performance of available engines. The lower
the Air Index, the less pollution.

The durability description is intended to provide you with information
relating the engine’s emission durability period. The descriptive term
indicates the useful life period for the engine’s emission control
system. See your EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY
(page 13) for additional information

Descriptive Term Applicable to Emissions Durability

Moderate 50 hours (0–80 cc inclusive)

Intermediate 125 hours (0–80 cc inclusive)

Extended 300 hours (0–80 cc inclusive)

.

Period

125 hours (greater than 80 cc)

250 hours (greater than 80 cc)

500 hours (greater than 80 cc)
1000 hours (225 cc and greater)

SPECIFICATIONS
GC160

Length x Width x Height 13.3 x 14.5 x 13.0 in

(337 x 369 x 331 mm)
Dry weight 25 lb (11.5 kg)
Engine type 4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement

[Bore x Stroke]
Net power *

(in accordance with SAE J1349)
Max. Net torque *

(in accordance with SAE J1349)
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58 l)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8 l)
Cooling system Forced air
Ignition system Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation Counterclockwise

9.8 cu-in (160 cm

[2.5 x 2.0 in (64 x 50 mm)]

4.6 hp (3.4 kW) at 3,600 rpm

6.9 ft-lb (9.4 N•m) at 2,500 rpm

3

)

Tuneup Specifications

ITEM SPECIFICATION MAINTENANCE

Spark plug gap 0.028 ~ 0.031 in

(0.7 ~ 0.8 mm)

Valve clearance
(cold)

Other specifications No other adjustments needed.

IN: 0.15 ± 0.04 mm

EX: 0.20 ± 0.04 mm

Refer to page 6.

See your authorized
Honda dealer

Quick Reference Information

Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane

Engine Oil Type SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later, for general

Carburetor Idle Speed 1,400 ± 150 rpm
Spark plug Type BPR6ES (NGK)
Maintenance Before each

use
First 5 hours Change engine oil. Refer to page 6.
Subsequent Refer to the maintenance schedule on

rating of 86 or higher (page 5).

use. Refer to page 6.

Check engine oil level. Refer to page 6.
Check air filter. Refer to page6.

page 5.

Wiring Diagrams

WITH OIL ALERT

SPARK
PLUG

IGNITION
COIL

IGNITION
SWITCH

OIL LEVEL
SWITCH

OIL
ALERT
UNIT

GC190

Length x Width x Height 13.6 x 14.5 x 13.0 in

Dry weight 29 lb (13.2 kg)
Engine type 4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement

[Bore x Stroke]
Net power *

(in accordance with SAE J1349)
Max. Net torque *

(in accordance with SAE J1349)
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58 l)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8 l)
Cooling system Forced air
Ignition system Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation Counterclockwise
* The power rating of the engine indicated in this document is the net power

output tested on a production engine for the engine model and measured in
accordance with SAE J1349 at 3600 rpm (net power) and 2500 rpm (max.
net torque). Mass production engines may vary from this value. Actual
power output for the engine installed in the final machine will vary
depending on numerous factors, including the operating speed off the
engine in application, environmental conditions, maintenance, and other
variables.

10

(345 x 369 x 331 mm)

11.4 cu-in (187 cm

[2.7 x 2.0 in (69 x 50 mm)]

5.2 hp (3.9 kW) at 3,600 rpm

8.3 ft-lb (11.2 N•m) at 2,500 rpm

3

)

ENGLISH

CONSUMER INFORMATION

DISTRIBUTOR/DEALER LOCATOR INFORMATION

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:
Visit our website: www.honda-engines.com
Canada:
Call (888) 9Honda9
or visit our website: www.honda.ca

Honda PUBLICATIONS

Shop
Manual

Parts
Catalog

CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands:

Servicing dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should
be able to answer any question you may have. If you encounter a
problem that your dealer does not solve to your satisfaction, please
discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager,
General Manager, or Owner can help. Almost all problems are solved
in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's
management, contact the Honda Regional Engine Distributor for your
area. You can find their name, address, and phone number using the
dealer/distributor locator on our website at www.honda-engines.com

If you are still dissatisfied after speaking with the Regional Engine
Distributor, you may contact the Honda Power Equipment Customer
Relations Office for your area. You can write to:

Canada:

Telephone: (888) 9Honda9 Toll free
Facsimile: [phone] Toll free

When you write or call, please provide this information:

• Equipment manufacturer’s name and model number that the
engine is mounted on

• Engine model, serial number, and type (see page 9)

• Name of dealer who sold the engine to you

• Name, address, and contact person of the dealer who services
your engine

• Date of purchase

• Your name, address and telephone number

• A detailed description of the problem

This manual covers complete maintenance and overhaul
procedures. It is intended to be used by a skilled technician.
Available through your Honda dealer or through Helm Inc. at
1 888-292-5395 or visit www.Honda-engines.com > product
manuals.

This manual provides complete, illustrated parts lists. Available
through your Honda dealer.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Power Equipment Division
Customer Relations Office

4900 Marconi Drive

Alpharetta, GA 30005-8847

Or telephone: [phone], 8:30 am - 7:00 pm ET

Honda Canada, Inc

Customer Relations Office

Visit www.honda.ca for contact information

DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTIES

The applicable warranty is the warranty policy in effect in the country where the
warranty service is provided.

Distributor’s Limited Warranty

United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands

PRODUCTS COVERED

BY THIS WARRANTY:

RESIDENTIAL

GC Series Engines 24 months 3 months

(1)

Private Residential: Used in maintaining owner’s primary and/or secondary
residence. Any other use, including but not limited to informal “for hire” use, is
considered commercial/rental/institutional.

(2)

Honda GC general purpose engines are not covered by this warranty when
installed on concession type vehicles.

To Qualify for this Warranty:

The Honda general purpose engine must be purchased from a Honda general
purpose engine dealer or distributor authorized to sell that product in the
United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. This limited warranty
applies to first retail purchaser and each subsequent owner during the
applicable warranty time period.

What American Honda Will Repair or Replace Under Warranty:

American Honda will repair or replace, at its option, any part that is proven to
be defective in material or workmanship under normal use during the
applicable warranty time period. Warranty repairs and replacements will be
made without charge for parts or labor. Anything replaced under warranty
becomes the property of American Honda Motor Company, Inc. All parts
replaced under warranty will be considered as part of the original product and
any warranty on those parts will expire coincident with the original product
warranty.

To Obtain Warranty Service:

Y ou must t ake your Honda general purpose engine, or the equipment in which
it is installed, together with proof of original retail purchase date, at your
expense, to a Honda engine dealer or distributor authorized to sell that product
in the United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, during their normal
business hours. Many Honda engine dealers and distributors are listed in the
yellow pages of the telephone directory under gasoline engines, lawn & garden
equipment & supplies, etc.

If you are unable to obtain warranty service, or are dissatisfied with the
warranty service you receive, take the following steps: First contact the owner
of the dealership or distributor involved. Normally this should resolve the
problem. However, if you should require further assistance, write or call the
Power Equipment Customer Relations Department of American Honda Motor
Co., Inc. listed in the adjacent column.

Exclusions:

This warranty does not extend to parts affected or damaged by the product in
which the engine is installed, or by collision, misuse, neglect, parts worn
beyond service limits due to normal wear/normal service life, parts affected or
damaged by the conversion to or use of fuel other than the fuel(s) which the
engine is originally manufactured to use, poor operation related to fuel
contamination or fuel quality, parts damaged by fuel contamination, the
incorporation of, or use of, unsuitable attachments or parts, the unauthorized
alteration of any part or any causes other than defects in material or
workmanship of the engine. Use of the Honda general purpose engine for
racing or competition will void this warranty. Any engine that is p art of a product
that has ever been declared a total loss or sold for salvage by a financial
institution or insurer.

Disclaimer of Consequential Damage and Limitation of Implied
Warranties:

American Honda disclaims any responsibility for loss of time or use of the
engine, or the equipment in which the engine is installed, transportation,
commercial loss, or any other incidental or consequential damage. Any implied
warranties are limited to the duration of this written limited warranty. Some
states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do
not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above exclusions and limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.

International Warranty

See last pages.

LENGTH OF WARRANTY:

(FROM DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE)

PRIVATE/

COMMERCIAL/RENTAL/

(1)

INSTITUTIONAL

(2)

ENGLISH

11

Distributor’s Warranty Canada

Honda Canada Inc., for and on behalf of Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan,
gives the following written warranty on each new General Purpose Engine
manufactured by Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Japan, distributed in Canada by
Honda Canada Inc. and sold as part of the original equipment of machinery or
equipment when such machinery or equipment is manufactured in Canada.
Whenever used herein, the word “Honda” refers to Honda Canada Inc. and/or
Honda Motor Co. Ltd. as appropriate from the context.

Honda warrants that each new Honda General Purpose Engine will be free,
under normal use and maintenance, from any defects in material or
workmanship for the relevant warranty period set forth below. If any defects
should be found in a Honda General Purpose Engine within the relevant
warranty period, necessary repairs and replacements with a new part or the
Honda equivalent shall be made at no cost to the consumer for parts and
labour (except for labour charges due to the presence of an attachment), when
Honda acknowledges that such defects are attributable to faulty material or
workmanship at the time of manufacture.

Warranty period

Warranty coverage commences from the original date of sale or when the unit
is first put into use as a demonstrator.

MODEL NON-COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL RENTAL CONCESSION

GC 24 months 3 months 3 months NONE

NOTE: Concession use refers to go karts etc.

This Warranty covers:

a) Any Honda General Purpose Engine purchased from a Honda general

purpose engine dealer or distributor authorized to sell that product in
Canada.

b) Any factory installed part (except normal maintenance parts referred to in

“This warranty does not cover”); and

c) Any General Purpose Engine on which required maintenance services

have been performed as prescribed in the Owner's Manual.

This warranty does not cover:

a) Any repairs required as a result of collision, accident, striking any object,

racing, misuse, or lack of required maintenance.

b) Any repairs required as a result of any attachments, parts, or devices

installed by or repairs done by a party other than the Original Equipment
Manufacturer or an authorized Honda Power Products dealer.

c) Any Honda General Purpose Engine modified, altered, disassembled or

remodeled.

d) Normal maintenance services, including tightening of nuts, bolts and

fittings and engine tune-up and the replacement of parts made in
connection with normal maintenance services including filters, spark
plugs and wires, fuses, belts, lubricants, and other expendables
susceptible to natural wear.

The owner’s obligation

In order to maintain the validity of this DISTRIBUTOR'S WARRANTY, the
required maintenance services as set forth in the Owner's Manual must be
performed at the proper intervals and detailed receipts and records retained as
proof.

To obtain warranty service

You must take your Honda General Purpose Engine, at your expense, during
normal service hours, to the authorized Honda Power Products dealer or the
dealer designated by the manufacturer of the machinery or equipment
powered by the Honda engine. If you are unable to obtain or are dissatisfied
with the warranty service you receive, first contact the owner of the dealership
involved; this should resolve the problem. If you require further assistance,
contact Honda Canada Inc., noted on page 11.

Replacement parts warranty

New Honda Genuine replacement parts sold to a consumer or installed by an
authorized Honda power equipment dealer which are not covered by the
DISTRIBUTOR'S WARRANTY are warranted for a period of one year from
date of purchase for normal use, or 3 months for rental or concession use
provided, however, that this Replacement Parts Warranty does not apply to
any replacement parts modified, used with, or installed on a power product for
which the replacement parts were not intended. Electrical components that are
not installed by the dealer (sold over the counter) are not covered by warranty.

Entire written warranty

This DISTRIBUTOR'S WARRANTY is the only and the entire written warranty
given by Honda for Honda General Purpose Engines. No dealer or his agent or
employee is authorized to extend or enlarge on these warranties on behalf of
Honda by any written or verbal statement or advertisement.

Disclaimer

To the extent the law permits, Honda disclaims any responsibility for loss of
time or use of the General Purpose Engine, transportation or towing costs or
any other indirect, incidental or consequential damage, inconvenience or
commercial loss.

Notice to consumer

The provisions contained in these written warranties are not intended to limit,
modify, take away from, disclaim or exclude any warranties set forth in or the
operation of The Consumer Products Warranties Act, 1977 (Saskatchewan),
The Consumer Product Warranty and Liability Act (New Brunswick), The
Consumer Protection Act (Quebec), or any other similar provincial or federal
legislation.

Privacy statement

The owner information submitted may be used by Honda and its related
companies, their dealers and service providers to communicate marketing,
product and service information to you. If you prefer not to receive marketing
information, please contact us at 1-888-946-6329.

12

ENGLISH

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. In the remainder of this Emission
Control System Warranty, American Honda Motor Company Inc. and Honda
Canada Inc. will be referred to as Honda.

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS:

CALIFORNIA

The California Air Resources Board and Honda are pleased to explain the
emission control system warranty on your Honda Power Equipment engine. In
California, new spark-ignited small off-road equipment engines must be
designed, built, and equipped to meet the State's stringent anti-smog
standards.

OTHER STATES, U.S. TERRITORIES, AND CANADA

In other areas of the United States and in Canada, your engine must be
designed, built, and equipped to meet the U.S. EPA and Environment Canada
emission standards for spark-ignited engines at or below 19 kilowatts. S pecific
Honda products that do not meet the California emissions regulations can be
identified by a “Not for sale in California” decal.

ALL OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA

Honda must warrant the emission control system on your power equipment
engine for the period of time listed below, provided there has been no abuse,
neglect, or improper maintenance of your power equipment engine. Where a
warrantable condition exists, Honda will repair your power equipment engine
at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts, and labor.

Your emission control system may include such parts as the carburetor or fuel
injection system, the ignition system, and catalytic converter. Also included
may be hoses, connectors, and other emission-related assemblies.

MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY COVERAGE:

The 1995 and later power equipment engines are warranted for two years or
the length of the Honda Distributor’s Warranty, whichever is longer. If any
emission-related part on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired or
replaced by Honda.

OWNER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITY:

As the power equipment engine owner, you are responsible for the
performance of the required maintenance listed in your owner's manual.
Honda recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your
power equipment engine, but Honda cannot deny warranty coverage solely for
the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance.

As the power equipment engine owner, you should however be aware Honda
may deny you warranty coverage if your power equipment engine or a part has
failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or unapproved
modifications.

You are responsible for presenting your power equipment engine to a Honda
Power Equipment dealer as soon as a problem exists. The warranty repairs
should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.

If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities,
you should contact the Honda Office in your region:

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Power Equipment Customer Relations
4900 Marconi Drive
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005-8847
Te lephone: [phone]

WARRANTY COVERAGE:

Honda power equipment engines manufactured after January 1, 1995 and sold
in the State of California, U.S. EPA certified engines manufactured on or after
September 1, 1996 and sold in all of the United States, and Canadian certified
engines manufactured on or after January 1, 2005 are covered by this
warranty for a period of two years from the date of delivery to the original retail
purchaser or the length of the Honda Distributor’s Warranty, whichever is
longer. This warranty is transferable to each subsequent purchaser for the
duration of the warranty period.

Warranty repairs will be made without charge for diagnosis, parts, or labor. All
defective parts replaced under this warranty become the property of Honda.

Honda Canada Inc.
Power Equipment Customer Relations

or

VIsit www.honda.ca for
contact information.
Te lephone: [phone]

A list of warranted parts is in the table below . Normal maintenance items, such
as spark plugs and filters, that are on the warranted parts list are warranted up
to their required replacement interval only.

Honda will also replace other engine components damaged by a failure of any
warranted part during the warranty period.

Only Honda approved replacement parts may be used in the performance of
any warranty repairs and must be provided without charge to the owner. The
use of replacement parts not equivalent to the original parts may impair the
effectiveness of your engine emission control system. If such a replacement
part is used in the repair or maintenance of your engine, and an authorized
Honda dealer determines it is defective or causes a failure of a warranted part,
your claim for repair of your engine may be denied. If the part in question is not
related to the reason your engine requires repair, your claim will not be denied.

TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE:

Y ou must t ake your Honda Power Equipment engine or the product on which it
is installed, along with your sales registration card or other proof of original
purchase date, at your expense, to any Honda Power Equipment dealer who is
authorized by Honda to sell and service that Honda product during his normal
business hours. Claims for repair or adjustment found to be caused solely by
defects in material or workmanship will not be denied because the engine was
not properly maintained and used.

If you are unable to obtain warranty service, or are dissatisfied with the
warranty service you received, contact the owner of the dealership involved.
Normally this should resolve your problem. However, if you require further
assistance, write or call the Honda Power Equipment Customer Relations
Department in your region.

EXCLUSIONS:

Failures other than those resulting from defects in material or workmanship are
not covered by this warranty. This warranty does not extend to emission
control systems or parts which are affected or damaged by owner abuse,
neglect, improper maintenance, misuse, misfueling, improper storage,
collision, the incorporation of, or any use of, any add-on or modified parts,
unsuitable attachments, or the unauthorized alteration of any part.

This warranty does not cover replacement of expendable maintenance items
made in connection with required maintenance services after the item's first
scheduled replacement as listed in the maintenance section of the product
owner's manual, such as: spark plugs and filters.

DISCLAIMER OF CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE AND LIMITATION
OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES:

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and Honda Canada Inc. disclaim any
responsibility for incidental or consequential damages such as loss of time or
the use of the power equipment, or any commercial loss due to the failure of
the equipment; and any implied warranties are limited to the duration of this
written warranty. This warranty is applicable only where the California, U.S.
EPA, or Environment Canada emission control system warranty regulation is in
effect.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY PARTS:

SYSTEMS COVERED

BY THIS WARRANTY:

Fuel Metering Carburetor assembly, (includes starting enrichment

Evaporative Fuel tank, Fuel cap, Fuel hoses, Vapor hoses,

Exhaust Catalyst, Exhaust manifold
Air Induction Air filter housing, Air filter element*
Ignition Flywheel magneto, Ignition pulse generator,

Crankcase Emission
Control

Miscellaneous Parts Tubing, fittings, seals, gaskets, and clamps

Note: This list applies to parts supplied by Honda and does not cover parts

supplied by the equipment manufacturer. Please see the original
equipment manufacturer’s emissions warranty for non-Honda parts.

* Covered up to the first required replacement only. See the MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE on page 5.

system), Engine temperature sensor, Engine control

module, Fuel regulator, Intake manifold

Carbon canister, Canister mounting brackets,

Fuel strainer, Fuel cock, Fuel pump, Fuel hose joint,

Crankshaft position sensor, Power coil, Ignition coil

assembly, Ignition control module, Spark plug cap,

Canister purge hose joint

Crankcase breather tube, Oil filler cap

associated with these listed systems.

PARTS

DESCRIPTION:

Spark plug*

ENGLISH

13

NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Nous vous félicitons d'avoir acheté un moteur Honda. Ce manuel a été conçu
pour vous aider à tirer le maximum de votre moteur tout en l'utilisant de façon
sécuritaire. Il contient tous les renseignements nécessaires et vous être prié de
le lire attentivement avant d'utiliser le moteur. En cas de problème, veuillez
communiquer avec un concessionnaire Honda agrée.

Toute l'information contenue dans ce manuel était exacte au moment de
l'impression. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. se réserve le droit d'apporter des
changements à ses produits en tout temps et sans préavis, sans obligation de
sa part. Ce manuel ne peut être reproduit, en partie ni en totalité, sans une
permission écrite de Honda.

Ce manuel fait partie intégrante du moteur. C'est pourquoi, il doit être conservé
à proximité en cas de revente du moteur.

Passer en revue les instructions fournies avec l'équipement alimenté par le
moteur pour obtenir davantage de renseignements sur le démarrage du
moteur, l'arrêt du moteur, le fonctionnement, les réglages et toutes les
instructions d'entretien spéciales.

MESSAGES SUR LA SÉCURITÉ

Votre sécurité et celle des autres est très importante. De l'information
concernant la sécurité vous est fournie dans le présent manuel et sur
différentes étiquettes apposées sur le moteur. Veuillez les lire attentivement.

Les messages de sécurité vous informe d'un éventuel danger. Chaque
message de sécurité est précédé du symbole d'alerte
mots suivants : DANGER, AVERTISSEMENT ou ATTENTION.

Ces termes signifient:

B DANGER

Vous METTREZ votre VIE EN
DANGER ou serez GRIÈVEMENT
BLESSÉ si vous n'observez pas les
instructions.

B

AVERTISSEMENT

Vous RISQUEZ de METTRE VOTRE
VIE EN DANGER ou d'être
GRIÈVEMENT BLESSÉ si vous
n'observez pas les instructions.

B et de l'un des trois

MANUEL DE L’UTILISATEUR

GC160 • GC190

FRANÇAIS

BB AVERTISSEMENT: B

Les gaz d'échappement du moteur contiennent

des produits chimiques reconnus par l'État de la

Californie comme pouvant entraîner le cancer,

des malformations à la naissance et autres

dangers liés à la reproduction.

TABLE DES MATIÈRES

B ATTENTION

Chaque message vous informe du danger, de ce qui pourrait se présenter et
vous indique comment éviter ou réduire les risques de blessures.

Vous RISQUEZ d'être BLESSÉ si
vous n'observez pas les instructions.

MESSAGES DE PRÉVENTION DES DOMMAGES

Vous remarquerez que certains renseignements sont précédés
de la mention NOTA.

Cette indication signifie :

NOTA

Ces conseils vous éviteront d'endommager votre moteur et les biens d'autrui,
tout en préservant l'environnement.

Votre moteur ou d'autres biens peuvent être endommagés si
vous n'observez pas les instructions.

INFORMATION CONCERNANT LA SÉCURITÉ

• Connaître la fonction de toutes les commandes et savoir comment arrêter le
moteur rapidement en cas d’urgence. S'assurer que l'utilisateur dispose de
la formation adéquate avant d'utiliser le moteur.

• Les émissions produites par le moteur contiennent du monoxyde de
carbone qui est un gaz mortel. Ne pas faire fonctionner le moteur lorsque
l'aération n'est pas adéquate et ne jamais faire fonctionner le moteur dans
un espace clos.

• Le moteur et le tuyau d'échappement deviennent très chauds pendant le
fonctionnement. Garder le moteur à au moins
3 pi des bâtiments et de tout autre équipement pendant le fonctionnement.
Conserver le matériel inflammable à bonne distance et ne placer aucun
objet sur le moteur pendant son fonctionnement.

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

MESSAGES SUR LA SÉCURITÉ . . 1
EMPLACEMENT DES COMMANDES

ET DES COMPOSANTS. . . . . . . . . . 2

AVANT L'UTILISATION DU MOTEUR2

FONCTIONNEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

MESURES DE SÉCURITÉ
CONCERNANT LE

FONCTIONNEMENT . . . . . . . . .2

TYPE 1: ACCÉLÉRATEUR
MANUEL/ÉTRANGLEUR

MANUEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

TYPE 2 : ACCÉLÉRATEUR FIXE /
LEVIER DE COMMANDE
D'ALLUMAGE / ÉTRANGLEUR

MANUEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

TYPE 3 : ACCÉLÉRATEUR FIXE/
INTERRUPTEUR D'ARRÊT DU
MOTEUR/ÉTRANGLEUR

MANUEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

SYSTÈME OIL ALERT®. . . . . . .4

L'ENTRETIEN DE VOTRE MOTEUR 4

IMPORTANCE DE

L'ENTRETIEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

ENTRETIEN SÉCURITAIRE . . .4
CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ . .5
CALENDRIER D'ENTRETIEN . .5

FAIRE LE PLEIN . . . . . . . . . . . .5

HUILE-MOTEUR . . . . . . . . . . . .6

VÉRIFICATION DU

NIVEAU D'HUILE . . . . . . . . . . . .6

VIDANGE D'HUILE. . . . . . . . . . .6

FILTRE À AIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

BOUGIE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

PARE-ÉTINCELLES . . . . . . . . .7

REMISAGE DE VOTRE MOTEUR . . 7

TRANSPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

RÉGLER DES PROBLÈMES IMPRÉ-

VUS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

INFORMATIONS TECHNIQUES. . . . 9

EMPLACEMENT DU

NUMÉRO DE SÉRIE . . . . . . . . . 9

FONCTIONNEMENT À HAUTE

ALTITUDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

INFORMATION SUR LE
SYSTÈME ANTIPOLLUTION . . 10

INDICE D'AIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

SPÉCIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . .11

GUIDE DE RÉFÉRENCE

RAPIDE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

SCHÉMA DE CÂBLAGE. . . . . . 11

INFORMATION À L'INTENTION DU

PROPRIÉTAIRE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

PUBLI CATIONS Honda . . . .. . .12

GARANTIE DU DISTRIBUTEUR12
GARANTIE DU SYSTÈME

ANTIPOLLUTION . . . . . . . . . . 13

INFORMATION SUR LA
GARANTIE À L'INTENTION DU
PROPRIÉTAIRE­INTERNATIONALE...

. . . . . . . . . . . .DERNIÈRE PAGE

© 2009 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. —Tous droits réservés

FRANÇAIS

1