Honda Self Propelled Lawn Mower Problems

Honda self-propelled lawn mowers are renowned for their reliability and performance, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a well-manicured lawn with minimal effort. However, even the most dependable machines can encounter issues. Understanding common problems, their causes, and how to troubleshoot them can save you time, money, and the frustration of a stalled mowing session. Let's dive into the world of Honda self-propelled lawn mower issues and equip you with the knowledge to keep your mower running smoothly.

My Mower Won't Start! What's Going On?

This is probably the most common complaint amongst lawn mower owners, regardless of the brand. A mower that refuses to start can be due to several factors, ranging from simple oversights to more complex mechanical problems. Let's break down the potential culprits:

• Fuel Issues: This is often the first place to look.

  • Old or Stale Fuel: Gasoline degrades over time, especially when mixed with ethanol. If your mower has been sitting for a while, the fuel could be the problem. Always use fresh gasoline, ideally with a fuel stabilizer, especially if you plan on storing the mower for an extended period. Drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh fuel.
  • Clogged Fuel Line or Filter: Debris can accumulate in the fuel line or filter, restricting fuel flow. Inspect the fuel line for kinks or blockages and replace the fuel filter if it's dirty.
  • Carburetor Problems: The carburetor mixes air and fuel for combustion. If it's clogged or malfunctioning, the engine won't start. Cleaning or rebuilding the carburetor may be necessary. This is often best left to a professional unless you have experience with small engine repair.

• Spark Problems: A spark is essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture.

  • Faulty Spark Plug: The spark plug provides the spark. A dirty, cracked, or improperly gapped spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. Check the spark plug for signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary. Ensure the gap is set to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Ignition Coil Issues: The ignition coil provides the high voltage needed to create a spark. If the coil is faulty, it won't generate enough voltage. Testing the ignition coil with a multimeter can help determine if it's the problem.

• Airflow Problems: The engine needs a proper air-fuel mixture to run.

  • Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or not start at all. Regularly clean or replace the air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Safety Mechanisms: Honda mowers are equipped with safety features that prevent the engine from starting under certain conditions.

  • Blade Brake Clutch (BBC) Lever: Ensure the BBC lever is fully engaged.
  • Operator Presence Control (OPC) Lever: Make sure the OPC lever is held down while starting the mower.
  • Low Oil Sensor: If the oil level is too low, the engine may not start. Check the oil level and add oil if needed. Using the correct type and weight of oil as specified in your owner's manual is crucial.

My Self-Propelled Drive Isn't Working! Now What?

A self-propelled mower that isn't propelling itself defeats the purpose of having one! Here's what could be causing the issue:

• Cable Problems: The drive system is controlled by cables that connect the handle to the transmission.

  • Loose or Broken Cable: Check the cables for looseness, fraying, or breakage. Adjust or replace the cables as needed.
  • Cable Adjustment: The cable tension may need adjustment. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to adjust the drive cable.

• Belt Problems: The drive system uses belts to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.

  • Worn or Broken Belt: Inspect the drive belt for wear, cracks, or breakage. Replace the belt if necessary.
  • Belt Slippage: If the belt is loose or worn, it may slip, reducing the drive power. Ensure the belt is properly tensioned and in good condition.

• Transmission Issues: The transmission is responsible for transferring power to the wheels.

  • Low Transmission Fluid: Some models have a transmission fluid reservoir. Check the fluid level and add fluid if needed.
  • Damaged Transmission: A damaged transmission can cause the self-propelled function to fail. This may require professional repair or replacement.
  • Worn Gears: Over time, the gears within the transmission can wear down, leading to slippage or complete failure.

• Wheel Issues:

  • Wheel Slippage: If the wheels are slipping on the grass, the mower won't move forward effectively. Ensure the tires are properly inflated and the grass isn't too wet or overgrown.
  • Damaged Wheels or Gears: Check the wheels for damage or worn gears. Replace damaged components as needed.

The Engine Runs Rough or Stalls Frequently

An engine that runs roughly or stalls frequently indicates a problem with the engine's performance. This could stem from several issues:

• Carburetor Issues (Again!): As mentioned earlier, a dirty or malfunctioning carburetor can cause a variety of problems, including rough running and stalling. A thorough cleaning is often the solution.
• Spark Plug Problems (Revisited): Even if the spark plug is firing, it might not be firing correctly. A fouled spark plug can lead to incomplete combustion and poor engine performance.
• Air Filter Problems (Still Important): A dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing the engine to run rich (too much fuel, not enough air).
• Valve Problems: The engine's valves control the intake and exhaust of gases.
  • Sticking Valves: Valves can stick due to carbon buildup or other deposits.
  • Valve Adjustment: The valve clearance may need adjustment. Improper valve clearance can cause the engine to run poorly. This is generally a task for a qualified mechanic.
• Fuel Cap Issues: A clogged fuel cap vent can create a vacuum in the fuel tank, preventing fuel from flowing to the engine. Try loosening the fuel cap to see if it resolves the issue. If so, replace the fuel cap.

My Mower is Vibrating Excessively!

Excessive vibration can be uncomfortable and potentially damaging to the mower. Here's what to investigate:

• Blade Imbalance: A bent or damaged blade can cause significant vibration. Inspect the blade for damage and sharpen or replace it as needed. Ensure the blade is properly balanced. Balancing can be done with a blade balancer, a relatively inexpensive tool.
• Loose Blade: Ensure the blade is securely attached to the engine shaft. A loose blade can vibrate excessively.
• Engine Mounting Issues: Check the engine mounting bolts to ensure they are tight. Loose engine mounts can cause vibration.
• Debris Buildup: Excessive grass or debris buildup under the deck can cause imbalance and vibration. Clean the underside of the deck regularly.

The Mower Smokes Excessively

Excessive smoke from the engine is a sign of a problem. The color of the smoke can provide clues about the cause:

• Blue Smoke: Blue smoke indicates that oil is burning in the combustion chamber. This could be due to worn piston rings, valve seals, or a blown head gasket.
• Black Smoke: Black smoke indicates that the engine is running rich (too much fuel). This could be due to a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning carburetor, or a stuck choke.
• White Smoke: White smoke can indicate that water or coolant is entering the combustion chamber. This could be due to a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block (less common in lawn mowers).

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why won't my Honda lawn mower start after winter storage? Stale fuel is the most common culprit. Drain the old fuel, clean the carburetor if necessary, and use fresh gasoline.

• How often should I change the oil in my Honda lawn mower? Refer to your owner's manual, but generally, change the oil after every 25 hours of use or at least once a year.

• My self-propelled mower is moving too fast. Can I adjust the speed? Yes, most self-propelled mowers have a speed control lever or dial. Adjust it to your desired speed.

• How do I clean the carburetor on my Honda lawn mower? Carburetor cleaning usually involves disassembling the carburetor, cleaning the jets and passages with carburetor cleaner, and reassembling it. Refer to your owner's manual or a repair guide for specific instructions. It's often a job best left to professionals.

• What type of gasoline should I use in my Honda lawn mower? Use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Using fuel with ethanol content no higher than 10% is recommended.

In Conclusion

Honda self-propelled lawn mowers are built to last, but like any machine, they can experience problems. By understanding common issues and knowing how to troubleshoot them, you can keep your mower running smoothly and maintain a beautiful lawn. Remember to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and maintenance schedules, and don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed.