11
ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Engine Oil Level Check

1. Unscrew and remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
2. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler
neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
3. If the oil level is low, add
oil to reach the upper limit
mark on the dipstick. Do
not overfill. If the engine
is overfilled, the excess
oil may get transferred to
the air cleaner housing
and air cleaner filter.
NOTICE
Running the engine with
a low oil level can cause
engine damage.
4. Screw in the filler
cap/dipstick securely.

Engine Oil

Recommendations

Oil is a major factor affecting
performance and service life.
Use 4-stroke automotive
detergent oil.
Always change the oil in
accordance with the
maintenance schedule (page 9).
SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general use. Other viscosities
shown in the chart may be used when the average temperature in
your area is within the recommended range.
The SAE oil viscosity and service classification are in the API label on
the oil container. Honda recommends API SERVICE category SJ or
later oil with the ILSAC “starburst” certification mark.

Engine Oil Change

Drain the used oil while the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly
and completely.
1. Turn the fuel valve OFF (page 7). This will reduce the possibility of
fuel leakage.
2. Wipe the oil filler area clean, then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.
3. Place a suitable
container next to the
mower to catch the
used oil, then tilt the
mower on its right
side.
The used oil will drain
through the filler neck.
Allow the oil to drain
completely.
Please dispose of used motor oil and the containers in a manner
that is compatible with the environment. We suggest you take it in
a sealed container to your local recycling center or service station
for reclamation. Do not throw it in the trash, pour it on the ground,
or pour it down a drain.
4. Fill with the recommended
oil. Do not overfill. Allow a
couple of minutes for the
oil to settle in the engine,
then measure the oil level.
NOTICE
Using nondetergent oil can
shorten the engine’s
service life, and using
2-stroke oil can damage
the engine.

Air Cleaner Service

A dirty air cleaner will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing
engine performance. If you operate the mower in very dusty areas,
clean the air cleaner more often than specified in the MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE (page 9).
NOTICE
Operating the engine without an air cleaner, or with a damaged air
cleaner, will allow dirt to enter the engine, causing rapid engine wear.
This type of damage is not covered by the DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED
WARRANTY (page 19).
1. Press down on the cover tabs and remove the cover.
2. Remove the filter from the air cleaner housing.
3. Inspect the filter, and replace it if damaged.
4. Clean the filter by tapping it several times on a hard surface to
remove dirt, or blow compressed air (not exceeding 30 psi
[207 kPa]) through the air filter from the inside. Never try to brush
off dirt; brushing will force dirt into the fibers.
5. Wipe dirt from the inside of the air cleaner housing and cover using
a moist rag. Be careful to prevent dirt from entering the air duct that
leads to the carburetor.
6. Reinstall the filter and cover.
FILLER
CAP/DIPSTICK
LOWER
LIMIT
UPPER
LIMIT
AIR CLEANER
HOUSING
FILTER
COVER
COVER TABS
AIR DUCT