honda-automobiles hrx217hxa User Manual

15

Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorate in storage. Old gasoline will 
cause hard starting, and it leaves gum deposits that clog the fuel 
system. If the gasoline in your mower 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 deterioration 
problems may occur within a few months, or even less if the gasoline 
was not fresh when you filled the fuel tank.

The Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 19) does not cover fuel 
system damage or engine performance problems resulting from 
neglected storage preparation.

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 all the fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor.

When adding a fuel stabilizer (page 19), fill the fuel tank 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 fuel stabilizer following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. After adding a fuel stabilizer, run the engine outdoors for 

10 minutes to be sure that the treated gasoline has replaced the 
untreated gasoline in the carburetor.

3. Turn the engine OFF and turn the fuel valve to the OFF position

1. Make sure the fuel valve is OFF (page 6). Remove the carburetor 

drain bolt with a 10 mm wrench, and drain the fuel from the 

carburetor bowl into an approved container.

If you only need to drain the carburetor, skip to step 3.

2. To drain the fuel tank, turn 

the fuel valve ON (page 6). 
This will allow fuel in the 
fuel tank to drain out 
through the carburetor 
bowl.

3. After the fuel is completely 

drained, reinstall the drain 
bolt.

Change the engine oil (page 11).

1. Remove the spark plug 

2. Pour a tablespoon

(5 ~ 10 cc) of clean engine 
oil into the cylinder. This will 
prevent rust from 
developing inside the 
engine.

3. Pull the starter rope several 

times to distribute the oil in 
the cylinder.

4. Reinstall the spark plug.

5. Pull the starter rope slowly 

until resistance is felt, and 
then return the starter grip gently. This will close the valves so 
moisture cannot enter the engine cylinder.

The handlebar can be folded for storage or transport by unlocking the 
handlebar adjust knobs.

1. Remove the grass 

bag. You can place it 
on top of the engine, 
with the bag opening 
to the front.

2. Unlock the handlebar 

adjust knobs, then 
swing the handlebar 
forward. Prevent the 
cables from getting 
pinched or kinked.

When unfolding the handlebar, be sure to lock the adjust knobs to 
secure the handlebar in the mowing position.

If your mower 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 humidity 
promotes rust and corrosion.

Make sure the fuel valve is in the OFF position to reduce the 
possibility of fuel leakage.

Place the mower with its wheels on a level surface. Tilting can cause 
fuel or oil leakage.

The handlebar can be folded for compact storage.

With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover the mower 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 mower, promoting rust and 
corrosion.



Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.

You can be burned or seriously injured when handling 
fuel.

• Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.

• Wipe up spills immediately.