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2. Pull back on the cutting-means
control lever and hold it against
the handlebar.
The lever must be against the
handlebar to start the engine.
The cutting means start to rotate
when the lever is against the
handlebar and the recoil starter
grip is pulled.
3. Pull the starter grip lightly until
you feel resistance, then pull
briskly. Return the starter grip gently.
Continue to hold the cutting-means control lever against the
handlebar; the engine stops when the cutting-means control lever
is released.
To ensure easy restarting and maximum performance from the
Auto Choke System, start mowing as soon as the engine starts
and allow the engine to run for at least three minutes before
stopping the engine.
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.
High altitude performance can be improved by specific modifications
to the carburetor. If you always operate your mower at altitudes above
1,500 meters, have a Honda dealer perform this carburetor
modification.
Even with carburetor modification, engine power will decrease about
3.5% for each 300 meter increase in altitude. The effect of altitude on
power 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 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 authorized Honda dealer return the
carburetor to original factory specifications.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
1. Release the cutting-means
control lever [1] to stop the
engine and cutting means
rotation.
2. When the mower is not in use, turn
the fuel valve [2] to the OFF position.
3. If your equipment will not be used for
3 to 4 weeks, we recommend
running the engine’s carburetor out
of fuel. You can do this by leaving the
fuel valve OFF, restarting the engine
and running it out of fuel. See
“STORAGE” on page 16 for periods
of inactivity that exceed 4 weeks.
SAFE MOWING PRACTICES
For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground, and be careful to
avoid losing your footing and your control of the mower. Keep a firm
grip on the handlebar, and walk, never run, with the mower. Be very
careful when mowing uneven or rough ground.
If stuck, do not kick or shove the mower with your foot. Use the
handlebar to control the mower.
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 large obstacles, such as fences or
walls.
Release the Select Drive control to
disengage the drive when mowing
around trees and other obstacles. Push the mower around obstacles
for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over obstacles
embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving, edging, etc.
Avoid anything that sticks up above the surface of the lawn.
If the cutting means hits something, or if the mower starts to vibrate,
stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Striking objects
may damage the cutting means, bend the crankshaft, and/or break
the mower deck or other components. Vibration usually indicates
serious trouble.
The warranty does not cover parts damaged by 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 flywheel brake
lever to stop the cutting means before reaching areas with gravel,
loose stones, or landscaping material.
[1]
OFF
[2]
WARNING
The cutting means are sharp and spin at high speed.
A spinning cutting means 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.
WARNING
A worn, cracked, or damaged cutting means can
break, and pieces of the damaged cutting means can
become dangerous projectiles.
Thrown objects can cause serious injury.
Inspect the cutting means regularly, and do not operate
the mower with a worn or damaged cutting means.
