13
Spark Plug Service
Recommended spark plug: NGK - BPR5ES
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 spark plug
cap and remove any dirt
from around the spark plug
area.
2. Remove the spark plug
with a 13/16 in (21 mm)
spark plug wrench.
3. Inspect the spark plug.
Replace it if the electrodes
are worn, or if the insulator
is cracked, chipped, or
fouled.
4. Measure the spark plug
electrode gap with a suitable
gauge. The gap should be
0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.7 ~ 0.8 mm).
Correct the gap, if necessary,
by carefully bending the side
electrode.
5. Install the spark plug carefully,
by hand, to avoid
cross-threading.
6. After the spark plug seats,
tighten with a 13/16 in (21 mm)
spark plug wrench to compress the washer.
If reinstalling the old spark plug, tighten 1/8 to 1/4 turn after the
spark plug seats.
If installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug
seats to compress the sealing washer.
NOTICE
A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening the spark plug can damage the threads in the
cylinder head.
7. Install the spark plug cap on the spark plug.
Blade Control Operation Check
Start the engine outdoors. Move the throttle lever to FAST and
release the blade control lever; the engine should stop quickly. If the
engine does not stop quickly, take the mower to an authorized Honda
servicing dealer for repair.
Spark Arrester Service (optional equipment)
Your lawn mower engine is not factory-equipped with a spark arrester.
In some areas, it is illegal to operate an engine without a spark
arrester. Check local laws and regulations. An optional USDA
approved spark arrester is available from an authorized Honda
servicing dealer.
The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep it
functioning as designed.
1. Allow the engine to
cool and disconnect
the spark plug cap
to prevent
accidental starting.
2. Remove the three
6 mm flange bolts
from the muffler
protector and
remove the muffler
protector.
3. Remove the 4 mm
self-tapping screw
from the spark
arrester and
remove the spark
arrester from the
muffler. Be careful
not to damage the
spark arrester
screen.
4. Check for carbon deposits on the spark arrester and the exhaust
port. Use a brush to remove carbon deposits. Be careful to avoid
damaging the spark arrester screen. Replace the spark arrester if
there are any breaks or holes.
5. Install the spark arrester and muffler protector in the reverse order
of disassembly. Tighten all hardware securely.
6. Reconnect the spark plug cap.
CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENTS
Blade Control Cable Adjustment
Measure the free play at the top of the lever.
Free play:
1-3/16 ~ 1-3/8 in
(30 ~ 35 mm).
SPARK PLUG
SPARK PLUG CAP
SPARK PLUG
WRENCH
0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.7 ~ 0.8 mm)
SEALING
WASHER
SPARK ARRESTER
(OPTIONAL)
MUFFLER
PROTECTOR
4 x 6 mm SELF-
TAPPING SCREW
6 x 12 mm BOLT (3)
1-3/16 ~ 1-3/8 in
(30 ~ 35 mm)
BLADE CONTROL LEVER
