HONDA HRX476C (01) PDF DOCUMENT

The safety symbols in the HONDA HRX476C owner’s manual indicate different levels of risk and provide important information:

WARNING: Indicates a high risk of severe personal injury or death if instructions are not followed.

CAUTION: Indicates a possibility of personal injury or equipment damage if instructions are not followed.

NOTE: Source of useful information.

SAFETY Symbol (!): This sign means that you must take care during certain operations and refers you to specific safety instructions.

The model of your HONDA HRX476C is indicated on its “identification label”. You can determine its features by referencing the following codes used in the manual:

The decals on your HONDA HRX476C lawn mower remind you of important precautions:

[1] WARNING: Read the owner’s manual before using the mower.

[2] Risk of projections: Keep third persons away from the area during use.

[3] Risk of cuts. Rotating blade: Do not put hands or feet inside the blade enclosure. Disconnect the spark plug cap before performing any operation of maintenance or repairs.

[4] Do not operate without either discharge guard or grass catcher in place.

[5] The muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for a while after stopping the engine.

[6] The engine emits toxic carbon monoxide. Do not run in an enclosed area.

[7] Petrol is highly flammable. Stop the engine before refueling.

(*) For the models equipped

To assemble the handle on your HONDA HRX476C, follow these steps:

1. Turn the folding/handle adjustment knobs a quarter turn to the unlocked position.

2. Unfold the handle so that the folding knob axes line up with the top, intermediate, or bottom holes, depending on the handle height required.

3. Put the knobs back to the locked position.

Ensure that the clamping rings for the cables on the handle are positioned correctly.

Bag Removal:

1. Stop the engine.

2. Raise the discharge guard, grasp the bag handle, and remove the bag while keeping it in an upright position.

Bag Fitting:

1. Raise the discharge guard and hook the front of the bag on the mower’s attachment lugs.

NOTE: Empty the grass bag before it is full to help with emptying and minimize dropping grass cuttings. Bagging performance will diminish after the bag becomes about 90% full.

To check the fuel level:

1. Remove the filler cap and check the fuel level.

2. If the level is low, fill the tank. The maximum level is reached when the fuel is opposite the mark inside the tank.

3. Screw the filler cap fully on after filling.

WARNING: Do not fill the fuel tank up to the brim (there must be no fuel in the filler neck). Ensure the tank filler cap is screwed on fully after filling. Avoid getting fuel on your skin and keep fuel away from children.

Fuel Recommendations:

• Only use unleaded petrol 95 or 98.

• Never use a petrol-oil mixture.

• Use clean, fresh fuel. Do not keep fuel for more than one month.

• Store fuel in containers specifically designed for hydrocarbons.

If you intend to use fuel with alcohol in your HONDA HRX476C, ensure its octane number is at least as high as that recommended by Honda (86).

• Do not use mixtures containing more than 10% ethanol.

• Do not use fuel containing methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) that does not contain cosolvents or corrosion inhibitors.

• If using a methanol mixture with cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors, limit the proportion to 5% of methanol.

NOTE: The guarantee does not cover damage caused to the fuel system or engine performance problems resulting from the use of fuel containing alcohol. Honda does not give its approval to the use of fuels containing methyl alcohol since their suitability is not yet proven.

A dirty air cleaner will reduce the flow of air to the carburetor and must be regularly maintained. Never run the engine without the air cleaner fitted.

To check the condition:

1. Press the latch tabs on the top of the air cleaner cover and remove the cover.

2. Check the cleanliness of the filter element. If it is dirty, follow the cleaning procedure below.

3. Reinstall the filter and air cleaner cover.

To clean the element:

1. Inspect the air filter and replace it if it is damaged.

2. Tap the filter several times on a hard surface to remove dirt OR blow compressed air (not exceeding 2.1 kgf/cm², 30 psi) through the filter from the clean side that faces the engine.

3. Wipe dirt from the inside of the air cleaner cover and clean case using a moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct that leads to the carburetor.

4. Reinstall the filter and air cleaner cover.

WARNING: Never clean the air cleaner element using gas or flammable solvents; this could cause a fire or an explosion.

WARNING: Never operate the mower with a worn, damaged, split, or dented blade. A piece of blade which breaks off can cause serious bodily injuries.

To check the blade condition:

1. Stop the engine.

2. Pull off the spark plug cap.

3. Tilt the mower to the right so the fuel cap is up. Do not tilt with the carburetor facing down.

4. Check if the blade is showing signs of wear. It is necessary to replace the blade when the recesses join together (15 mm Max. wear), or when a crack appears.

5. Check that the blade bolts are tight.

NOTE: Blade wear is increased when the mower is used on sandy soils. Inspect the blade more often in these conditions.

To change the cutting height:

1. Stop the engine.

2. Keep the unlocking knob pressed and raise or lower the lawnmower with the adjustment handle. A height indicator is near the front left wheel.

The cutting height settings are approximate values. To choose the correct height, check how the lawn looks after mowing a small area and adjust as necessary.

Cutting Height Settings:

NOTE:

• Do not cut more than 1/3 of the initial grass height in one pass to avoid brown spots.

• If the lawn is too high, mow at the maximum height and then mow again 2 or 3 days later.

• Choose a cutting height suited to the lawn’s use: leisure/sport at 5 cm or more, ornamental at 1 to 3 cm.

CAUTION: The engine may be seriously damaged if run with insufficient oil. We recommend the use of Honda 4-stroke oil or an equivalent quality engine oil which is highly detergent. Oil viscosity must be appropriate for the average temperature in the zone where the mower is to be used.

Recommended Oil Viscosity (SAE):

• SAE 30 for temperatures from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 100°F).

• SAE 5W30 or 10W30 for temperatures from -20°C to 40°C (-4°F to 100°F).

To check the engine oil level:

1. Put the lawn mower on flat, even ground.

2. Remove the oil filler cap and wipe the dipstick.

3. Replace the dipstick in the filler neck but do not screw it down.

4. Check the level of the oil left on the dipstick. If the level is near the low-level mark, add the recommended oil up to the high-level mark.

5. Screw the filler cap on securely.

To adjust the variable mulching control, first release the blade clutch lever (HYE, VYE types) or the blade brake lever (PKE, VKE types). Then, turn the variable mulching control knob to one of the 5 positions to obtain the required mulching and ejection rate.

• Grass collection position: All the grass cuttings are ejected at the back of the lawn mower; the grass cuttings are not mulched.

• Mulching position: The grass is no longer collected in the grass bag, but is finely cut and deposited on the lawn. The grass cuttings chopped up in this way decompose and form a natural compost.

To find the best position for your needs, install the grass bag and start mowing in the collection position. Check the effect on the lawn. Turn the knob one notch to the right towards the mulching position to increase the quantity of grass ground and deposited on the lawn. Adjust until you obtain the required results.

If you do not want to collect the cut grass, you can use the mower without the grass bag (rear ejection). The quantity of grass ejected varies depending on the position of the variable mulching control knob (maximal in collection position, zero in mulching position).

Starting the Engine:

CAUTION: Do not start the engine with the blade clutch lever or the drive clutch lever engaged.

1. Open the fuel cock.

2. Place the throttle lever in the “FAST” position.

3. For PKE, VKE types: Keep the blade brake lever held firmly against the handle when starting the engine.

4. All models: Pull the starter slowly until a resistance is felt; then pull sharply. Do not let the starter spring back suddenly; guide it back slowly.

Stopping the Engine:

HYE, VYE types:

1. Move the throttle lever to the “STOP” position.

PKE, VKE types:

1. Move the throttle lever to the “SLOW” position.

2. Release the blade brake lever.

All models:

3. Turn the fuel cock to “STOP”.

If the engine still refuses to start after several pulls on the starter, it may be flooded. To clear a flooded engine:

1. For HYE, VYE types, place the throttle lever in the “STOP” position.

2. Remove and dry the spark plug. When refitting the spark plug, screw it up until it is finger tight and correctly seated. Then, using the plug spanner, tighten it an additional 1/8 to 1/4 turn so that the washer is correctly compressed.

3. Next, place the throttle lever in the “FAST” position and repeat the normal starting procedure.

WARNING: Always release the blade clutch lever and the drive clutch lever before starting the engine.

1. Select the suitable forward speed using the shift lever.

2. Engage the blade: Press the yellow button on top of the blade clutch lever, and at the same time push it quickly and hold it against the handle.

3. Engage forward drive: The drive clutch lever acts as a variable speed control. It makes the speed vary between zero and the maximal speed preset with the shift lever. The greater the height of the grass, the more it is necessary to reduce the drive speed.

4. To stop moving forward: Release the drive clutch lever.

5. To stop blade rotation: Release the blade clutch lever.

CAUTION: Move the blade clutch lever quickly from one end of its travel to the other so that the blade is always either fully engaged or fully disengaged to avoid stalling the engine.

WARNING: Always release the blade clutch lever and the drive clutch lever before starting the engine.

For VYE models (Engage the blade):

• Press the unlocking knob and keep it pressed.

• Pull the blade clutch lever towards you.

• Release the unlocking knob when the blades are engaged.

For VKE and VYE models (Forward Drive):

1. Engage the mower forward drive (Smart Drive) when the motor has picked up speed. Push the Smart Drive lever slowly to make the mower move forward.

2. The drive speed increases depending on the pressure exerted on the Smart Drive. Apply only the pressure necessary to obtain the required speed.

3. To stop moving forward: Release the Smart Drive lever.

4. To stop blade rotation: Release the blade clutch lever.

NOTE: For VKE models, releasing the blade brake lever stops both blade rotation and the engine.

For the PKE model, releasing the blade brake lever stops the blade rotating and stops the engine. This model is a “Pushed” type and does not have a forward drive system.

• Mowing frequency: Once a week for a lawn intended for leisure purposes, twice a week for an ornamental lawn.

• Mowing time: If possible, mow the lawn in the afternoon or evening before sprinkling, as the grass must be dry.

• Cutting height: Choose a cutting height adapted to the terrain.

• Overlap: For a regular cut, you should overlap the part that has already been cut by a few centimetres. Increase this overlap zone if the cutting height is high.

• Mowing path: To achieve maximum efficiency, follow the suggested path. With collection, turn in a clockwise direction. With the optional mulching kit, turn in an anti-clockwise direction.

Empty the grass bag when it becomes too full and grass collection is no longer efficient. You may notice the sound of the mower change and the bag will no longer be puffed up by the air from the blade.

1. Release the blade clutch lever (HYE, VYE types) or the blade brake lever (PKE, VKE types).

2. Remove the grass bag.

3. Empty the bag:

• Hold the bag by the metal handle.

• Grasp the other handle and shake the bag to remove the grass.

CAUTION: To reduce fire risk, never leave grass cuttings or leaves in the grass bag, or in or near buildings. Decomposing grass cuttings can cause a high temperature rise.

Drain the oil while the engine is still hot, so that it drains quickly and completely.

1. Tip the mower on its side.

2. Place a receptacle under the casing filler tube hole and rock the mower on the right side to drain the oil.

3. Remove the oil filler cap.

4. Return the mower to the upright position on its wheels when the casing is completely empty.

5. Fill up to the “high level” using the recommended oil.

6. Screw the filler cap fully on to avoid the risk of leaks.

NOTE: Dispose of used engine oil in a manner which respects the environment. We recommend you take it to a service station which will ensure it is recycled.

WARNING: If the engine has just been run, do not touch the muffler and the spark plug which will still be very hot.

Recommended plug: NGK – BPR5ES. Use only recommended spark plugs.

1. Pull off the spark plug cap and remove the spark plug using a plug spanner.

2. Carefully inspect the spark plug. Replace it if there are a lot of deposits or if the insulator is cracked or broken.

3. Measure the plug gap using a set of feeler gauges; the gap must be between 0.7 and 0.8 mm. If adjustment is necessary, carefully bend the side electrode.

4. Check that the sealing washer is in good condition; then screw the plug down by hand until finger tight and correctly seated.

5. Using a plug spanner, give an additional 1/2 turn for a new spark plug to compress the washer. If you refit the same plug, just 1/8 to 1/4 turn will do from the finger tight position.

6. Refit the spark plug cap.

CAUTION: The spark plug must be correctly tightened. An incorrectly screwed down plug can become very hot and damage the engine.

Blade Removal:

1. For Rotostop models, place the throttle lever in the “STOP” position.

2. Turn the fuel valve “OFF” and disconnect the spark plug cap.

3. Tilt the mower so that the carburetor faces upwards.

4. Use a 14 mm socket wrench and remove the two blade bolts and special washers from the blade control assembly. Use a wooden block to prevent the blades from turning when removing the bolts.

5. Remove the upper and lower blades.

Blade Installation:

1. Clean dirt and grass from around the blade mounting area.

2. Install both blades using the two blade bolts and special washers. Fit the special washers with their convex side, marked “OUT”, facing the bolts. The blade bolts are specially designed for this application and must not be replaced with other bolts.

3. Tighten the blade bolts with a torque wrench to 49 – 59 Nm. Use a wooden block to prevent the blades from turning.

WARNING: Operating this mower with only one blade will result in an improperly seated blade that can be thrown from the mower. Always install both blades as a set.

Blade Sharpening:

1. Sharpen the blade cutting edges with a file. File the top side only. Maintain the original bevel for a fine cutting edge. File both ends evenly to maintain blade balance.

Blade Balancing:

1. After sharpening, test the blade’s balance using a screwdriver. If either side dips slightly below the horizontal, file that side.

2. Replace the blade if it dips excessively.

CAUTION:

• To avoid weakening the blade, causing it to become unbalanced or getting a bad quality of cut, the blade should be sharpened by competent personnel at your Honda dealer’s.

• Blade balance is critical to proper mower performance. Replace any blade that is damaged or out of balance.

• Use only genuine Honda replacement blades.

Bag Cleaning:

• To clean the bag, we recommend washing it using a water jet directed from the outside to the inside of the bag.

• The bag must be completely dry before being used again. If the bag is damp, it will become clogged very quickly.

CAUTION: Washing with a high-pressure water or steam jet will damage the bag.

Bag Replacement:

Regularly check that the grass bag is not frayed or torn. Replace a damaged bag only with a genuine Honda replacement bag.

1. Detach the plastic edges of the worn bag and remove the bag’s frame.

2. Insert the frame into the new bag and fit the plastic edges to the frame.

WARNING: Objects struck by the blade may be thrown through a torn or damaged grass bag, which can cause serious injuries. Always replace a torn or damaged grass bag.

Maintenance should be carried out at the intervals indicated in months or in operating hours, whichever occurs first.

(1) Increase cleaning frequency when mower is used in dusty areas.

(2) Maintenance of these points must be carried out by a Honda dealer.

(3) HYE, VYE types

(4) PKE, VKE types

(5) HYE, VKE, VYE types

(6) In Europe and other countries where the machinery directive 2006/42/EC is enforced, this cleaning should be done by your servicing dealer.

WARNING: Do not drain the fuel tank while the muffler is hot.

1. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor into a suitable receptacle:

a. Open the fuel cock.

b. Place the throttle lever in the “FAST” position.

c. Unscrew the carburetor float bowl retaining bolt (1/4 to 1/2 turn maximum).

d. Lift up the carburetor float bowl against the body of the carburetor, allowing the fuel to drain.

e. Refit the drain plug and close the fuel shut-off valve.

2. Change the engine oil.

3. Pull the starter slowly until a resistance is felt. This closes the valves and protects them from dust and corrosion.

4. Coat all surfaces liable to rust with a thin film of oil. Cover the mower and store it on a flat surface in a dry, dust-free place. Do not use a plastic cover since this retains dampness.

NOTE: If the mower is to be stored for a period of more than 3 months, remove the spark plug and pour 5 to 10 cc of clean engine oil into the cylinder; then pull the starter slowly two or three times to spread the oil. Do not leave the mower lying on its side over long periods.

1. Remove the spark plug, check that it is clean and that the electrode gap is correct. Pull the starter several times.

2. We recommend that the spark plug be screwed down as far as possible by hand until finger tight; then use a plug spanner to tighten it by an extra 1/8 or 1/4 turn.

3. Check the level and condition of the engine oil.

4. Fill the fuel tank and start the engine.

NOTE: If the cylinder has been coated with oil, the engine will smoke on start-up. This is normal.

WARNING: Do not tilt the mower since this may cause fuel or oil spillage; spilt fuel or even fuel vapours are a fire hazard.

To transport the mower:

1. Place the throttle lever in the “STOP” position (except PKE, VKE types).

2. Pull off the spark plug cap.

3. Close the fuel shut-off valve.

To facilitate the operation:

1. Remove the grass bag.

2. Turn the folding/handle adjustment knobs a quarter turn to the unlocked position.

3. Fold back the handle.

NOTE: After folding the handle, check that the cables are not kinked, twisted, or stretched.

Loading the Mower:

• Transport the mower in a normal horizontal position with its four wheels flat on the vehicle platform.

• We recommend that you use a loading ramp or that you get someone to help you load and unload the mower. Adjust the loading ramp so that it is inclined at an angle of less than 15°.

• To prevent losing control, do not use the drive system when going up or down a loading ramp.

• When transporting the mower, immobilise it using straps and place chocks under the wheels. The straps must not touch the throttle lever, blade clutch lever, gas tank, and all the control cables.

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS (Model: GCV160E)

TRANSMISSION SPECIFICATIONS