5. PRE-OPERATION CHECK
Fuel Recommendation
Pump octane rating: 86 or higher.
We recommend unleaded fuel because it produces fewer engine and spark
plug deposits and extends exhaust system life.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture. Avoid
getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
Occasionally you may hear light “spark knock” or “pinging” (metallic rapping
noise) while operating under heavy loads. This is no cause for concern.
If spark knock or pinging occurs at a steady engine speed, under normal load,
change brands of gasoline. If spark knock or pinging persists, see an authorized
Honda lawn mower dealer.
pEzq Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging can
cause engine damage.
NOTE: Running the engine with persistent spark knock or pinging is considered
misuse, and the Distributor’s Limited Warranty does not cover parts damaged
by misuse.
Gasolines Containing Alcohol
If you decide to use a gasoline containing alcohol (gasohol), be sure its octane
rating is at least as high as that recommended by Honda. There are two types
of “gasohol”: one containing ethanol, and the other containing methanol. Do
not use gasohol that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use gasoline
containing methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) that does not also contain
cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors for methanol. Never use gasoline containing
more than 5% methanol, even if it has cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors.
NOTE:
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Fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from the use
of fuels that contain alcohol are not covered under the warranty. Honda
cannot endorse the use of fuels containing methanol since evidence of their
suitability is as yet incomplete.
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Before buying fuel from an unfamiliar station, try to find out if the fuel contains
alcohol. If it does, confirm the type and percentage of alcohol used. If you
notice any undesirable operating symptoms while using a gasoline that
contains alcohol, or one that you think contains alcohol, switch to a gasoline
that you know does not contain alcohol.
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