OP
bob_wood
Silver Member
- Joined
- Dec 10, 2006
- Messages
- 142
- Location
- plainfield NH
- Tractor
- kubota 4610, kubota 4200, JD 455, Toro 256E zero turn mower, Case 135 excavator, hydraulic dumpcart
I'm a Honda Engine Dealer and have had my share of troubleshooting with them.
The fuel tank has a very fine strainer in the bottom and for the most part it won't let water through, BUT vibration will let some pass. When ever I service an engine I have a vacuum syphon that hooks to an air hose. I suck the liquid from the sump around the fuel strainer and collect it in a clear container and check for water. I've had engines come in that wouldn't start and I found 6-8 oz of water in the tank. (The guy using that engine ask to go home early and was told no) When changing the fuel you need to get ALL the old out. Soak it up with a paper towel for the last drops.
DO NOT use a Champion spark plug. I've had too many problems with them on Honda's and other engines. Honda calls for NGK and I have only had a couple fail. Make sure it's the right plug, for some reason people like to put short reach plugs in. It needs a long reach, about 3/4"-1".
When the engine is running, try closing the choke about half way and see if it runs smoother. (the choke should have light detentes open and closed) If it does the power valve is stopped up (part # 27) I have a fine piece of stainless wire I use to clean these. The orifice is in the very bottom and the thing is plastic so be careful trying to clean it.
The governor has only one adjustment and it shouldn't change unless someone messed with it.
Honda engines are incredible when they are working right and that is most of the time! Try these tips and see if they help.
When I drained the fuel, all I could get out, I looked in the tank and I saw the fine strainer you are talking about and was wondering if it was clean ...couldnt really see it that good.Could I put some compressed air into the gas line / tube at the carb end to try and clean the tank filter? Also was wondering if I should have tried to wick the rest of the gas out of the bottom of the tank ... I didnt but I will tomorrow. And I will install a long reach NGK plug.
Per my earlier posts, should the engine ever go to full choke on its own ? Mine Does sometimes.
Only happens when I first start the engine and its coughing and sputtering as I try to increase RPMs.
IN spite of the problems I am having with my Honda engine, I have had Many years of great service out of this engine and I'm sure I'll get many more out of it when these little problems get cleaned up.
Thanks Stimw
Bob
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