Honda Owner's Manual

Thank you for purchasing a Honda engine! This manual contains information on how to operate your new engine safely and get the best results. Please read it carefully before operating. Consult your servicing dealer for any problems or questions.

All information is based on the latest product information at the time of printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make changes without notice. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. This manual should be considered a permanent part of the engine and remain with it if resold.

Review instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for additional information on startup, shutdown, operation, adjustments, or special maintenance.

For United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands: Read the warranty policy to understand its coverage and your responsibilities.

Safety Messages

Your safety and the safety of others are important. This manual and the engine provide important safety messages. Please read them carefully.

A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each message is preceded by a safety alert symbol ▲ and one of three words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

• DANGER: You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
• WARNING: You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.
• CAUTION: You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Each message explains the hazard, potential consequences, and how to avoid or reduce injury.

Damage Prevention Messages: You will also see other important messages preceded by the word NOTICE.

NOTICE: Your engine, other property, or the environment can be damaged if you don't follow instructions.

This entire book is filled with important safety information; please read it carefully.

©2024 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. - All Rights Reserved

Safety Information

Understand all controls and how to stop the engine quickly in an emergency. Ensure the operator receives adequate instruction before operating the equipment.

• Do not allow children to operate the engine. Keep children and pets away from the operation area.
• Your engine's exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Do not run the engine without adequate ventilation, and never run it indoors.
• The engine and exhaust become very hot during operation. Keep the engine at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from buildings and other equipment. Keep flammable materials away and do not place anything on the engine while it is running.

Safety Label Location

This label warns of potential hazards that can cause serious injury. Read it carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your servicing dealer for replacement.

Muffler Caution Label

WARNING LABEL (The label should be located either on the fuel tank, fan cover, or packaged loosely with the engine to be applied by the manufacturer.)

General Warning Text: Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Stop the engine and let cool before refueling. The engine emits toxic poisonous carbon monoxide gas. Do not run in an enclosed area. Read Owner's Manual before operation. Hot muffler can burn you. Stay away if engine has been running.

Component & Control Locations

Diagrams illustrate the locations of the following components:

• Fuel Tank: Holds the fuel.
• Fuel Filler Cap: For adding fuel.
• Electric Starter (applicable types): For starting the engine electrically.
• Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick: For checking and adding engine oil.
• Oil Drain Plug: For draining engine oil.
• Muffler: Reduces exhaust noise.
• Air Cleaner: Filters air entering the carburetor.
• Recoil Starter: For manual engine starting.
• Starter Grip: Pull to start the engine.
• Engine Control Types: Includes throttle lever and engine switch.
• Fuel Valve Lever: Controls fuel flow.
• Choke Lever/Rod: Used for cold starting.
• Engine Switch: Turns the engine on and off.

Features

Oil Alert® System (applicable types)

"Oil Alert" is a registered trademark in the United States. The Oil Alert system prevents engine damage caused by insufficient oil. It automatically stops the engine if the oil level falls below a safe limit. If the engine stops and will not restart, check the engine oil level before troubleshooting.

Circuit Protector (applicable types)

The circuit protector safeguards the battery charging circuit from short circuits or reverse battery polarity. A green indicator pops out when the circuit protector is tripped. Determine the cause of the problem and correct it before resetting the circuit protector by pushing the button.

Before Operation Checks

For your safety, compliance with environmental regulations, and to maximize service life, it is important to check the engine's condition before each operation. Correct any problems found or have them corrected by your servicing dealer.

WARNING: Failure to properly maintain the engine or correct problems before operation could result in significant malfunction, serious injury, or death.

Always perform a pre-operation inspection and correct any problems. Ensure the engine is level and the engine switch is OFF before checks.

Check the General Condition of the Engine

1. Look around and underneath for oil or gasoline leaks.
2. Remove excessive dirt or debris, especially around the muffler and recoil starter.
3. Look for signs of damage.
4. Check that all shields and covers are in place, and all nuts, bolts, and screws are tightened.

Check the Engine

1. Fuel level: Check the fuel level (see page 8). A full tank helps prevent interruptions.
2. Engine oil level: Check the engine oil level (see page 9). Running with low oil can cause damage. The Oil Alert system will stop the engine, but checking before startup avoids inconvenience.
3. Reduction case oil level (applicable types): Check the reduction case oil level (see page 9).
4. Air filter element: Check the air filter element (see page 10). A dirty filter restricts airflow and reduces performance.
5. Equipment: Review the instructions provided with the equipment powered by this engine for any specific precautions.

Operation

Safe Operating Precautions

Review the SAFETY INFORMATION (page 2) and BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS (page 4) before operating for the first time.

Carbon Monoxide Hazards: Do not operate the engine in an enclosed area like a garage. Engine exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can collect rapidly and cause illness or death.

WARNING: Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas that can build up to dangerous levels in closed areas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause unconsciousness or death. Never run this engine in a closed or partly closed area where people may be present.

Review equipment instructions for safety precautions during startup, shutdown, and operation. Do not operate the engine on slopes greater than 20° (36%).

Starting the Engine

1. Move the fuel valve lever to the ON position.
2. To start a cold engine, move the choke lever or choke rod to the CLOSED position.
3. Move the throttle lever away from the MIN. position, about 1/3 of the way toward the MAX. position.
4. Turn the engine switch to the ON position.
5. Recoil Starter: Pull the starter grip lightly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly in the direction of the arrow as shown. Return the starter grip gently.
6. Electric Starter (applicable types): Turn the key to the START position and wait for the engine to start. If the engine fails to start within 5 seconds, release the key, wait at least 10 seconds before operating the starter again. Using the electric starter for more than 5 seconds at a time will overheat the starter motor and can damage it. When the engine starts, release the key, allowing it to return to the ON position.
7. If the choke lever/rod was moved to CLOSED to start, gradually move it to the OPEN position as the engine warms up.

Stopping the Engine

To stop the engine in an emergency, turn the engine switch to the OFF position. For normal conditions, use the following procedure:

1. Move the throttle lever to the MIN. position.
2. Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.
3. Turn the fuel valve lever to the OFF position.

Setting Engine Speed

Position the throttle lever for the desired engine speed. Refer to instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer for remote-mounted throttle controls or for engine speed recommendations.

Servicing Your Engine

The Importance of Maintenance

Good maintenance is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-free operation. It also helps reduce pollution.

WARNING: Failure to properly maintain this engine, or failing to correct a problem before operation, could result in significant malfunction, serious injury, or death.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner's manual. For tasks requiring special tools or expertise, consult a qualified mechanic or Honda technician.

The maintenance schedule applies to normal operating conditions. For severe conditions (sustained high-load, high-temperature, or dusty/wet environments), consult your Honda servicing dealer for recommendations.

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emission control devices and systems can be performed by any qualified repair establishment or individual using parts certified to EPA standards.

Maintenance Safety

WARNING: Improper maintenance can cause an unsafe condition. Failure to follow instructions and precautions can cause serious injury or death.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner's manual.

Safety Precautions

• Make sure the engine is OFF before any maintenance or repairs. Disconnect the spark plug cap to prevent unintentional startup.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Operate outside, away from open windows or doors.
• Burns from hot parts: Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.
• Injury from moving parts: Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.
• Read instructions before beginning and ensure you have the required tools and skills.
• Fire or explosion: Be careful when working around gasoline. Use only non-flammable solvent for cleaning parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from fuel-related parts.

An authorized Honda servicing dealer knows your engine best and is equipped for maintenance and repair. Use only new Honda Genuine parts or equivalents for best quality and reliability.

Maintenance Schedule

Perform maintenance at indicated intervals (whichever comes first):

* Internal vent carburetor with dual element type only.

** Cyclone type every 6 months or 150 hours.

Replace paper element type only.

Cyclone type every 2 years or 600 hours.

(1) Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.

(2) These items should be serviced by your servicing dealer, unless you have the proper tools and are mechanically proficient. Refer to the Honda shop manual for service procedures.

(3) For commercial use, log hours of operation to determine proper maintenance intervals.

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

Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in nonwarrantable failures.

Refueling

Recommended Fuel

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher (Research octane rating of 91 or higher).

Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. Allow the engine to cool if it has been running. Never refuel inside a building where gasoline fumes can reach flames or sparks.

Unleaded gasoline containing no more than 10% ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol by volume is acceptable, provided the methanol contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Fuels with higher ethanol or methanol content may cause starting/performance problems or damage to fuel system parts. Such damage is not covered under warranty.

For infrequent or intermittent use, refer to the STORING YOUR ENGINE chapter for fuel deterioration information.

Never use stale, contaminated, or oil-mixed gasoline. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine and let it cool before handling fuel.
• Keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Keep away from your vehicle.
• Wipe up spills immediately.

NOTICE: Fuel can damage paint and some plastics. Be careful not to spill fuel. Damage from spilled fuel is not covered under warranty.

Refueling Instruction:

1. With the engine stopped and on a level surface, remove the fuel filler cap and check the fuel level. Refill if low.
2. Add fuel to the bottom of the maximum fuel level limit of the fuel tank. Do not overfill. Wipe up spilled fuel before starting.
3. Refuel carefully to avoid spilling. Do not fill the fuel tank completely. Lower the fuel level if necessary depending on operating conditions. After refueling, tighten the fuel filler cap securely.

Keep gasoline away from appliance pilot lights, barbecues, electric appliances, power tools, etc. Spilled fuel is a fire hazard and causes environmental damage.

Engine Oil

Oil is critical for performance and service life. Use 4-stroke automotive detergent oil.

Recommended Oil

Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets or exceeds API service category SJ or later (or equivalent). Always check the API service label on the container.

SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general use. Other viscosities may be used within the indicated ambient temperature ranges.

[Chart showing recommended oil viscosities based on ambient temperature]

Oil Level Check (Engine Oil)

Check the engine oil level with the engine stopped and on a level position.

1. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
2. Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick into the oil filler neck without screwing it in, then remove it to check the oil level.
3. If the oil level is near or below the lower limit mark on the dipstick, fill with recommended oil to the upper limit mark (bottom edge of the oil fill hole). Do not overfill.
4. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick and tighten securely.

NOTICE: Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage, which is not covered by warranty. The Oil Alert system will stop the engine, but checking before startup avoids inconvenience.

Oil Change (Engine Oil)

Drain the used oil when the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely.

1. Place a suitable container below the engine to catch used oil. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick, oil drain plug, and sealing washer.
2. Allow the used oil to drain completely. Reinstall the oil drain plug and a new sealing washer, and tighten securely.

NOTICE: Dispose of used motor oil responsibly, e.g., at a local recycling center. Do not pour it on the ground or down a drain.

TORQUE: 22.5 N-m (2.29 kgf-m, 17 lbf·ft)

3. With the engine level, fill with recommended oil to the upper limit mark (bottom edge of the oil fill hole) on the dipstick.

Engine oil capacity: 1.1 L (1.2 US qt, 1.0 Imp qt)

NOTICE: Running the engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage, which is not covered by warranty. The Oil Alert system will stop the engine, but checking before startup avoids inconvenience.

Reduction Case Oil (applicable types)

Use the same oil recommended for the engine.

Oil Level Check

Check the reduction case oil level with the engine stopped and on a level position.

1/2 Reduction Case With Centrifugal Clutch

1. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
2. Insert and remove the oil filler cap/dipstick without screwing it into the filler hole. Check the oil level shown on the oil filler cap/dipstick.
3. If the oil level is low, add recommended oil to reach the upper limit mark on the dipstick.
4. Screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick and tighten securely.

Oil Change

Drain the used oil while the engine is warm.

1. Place a suitable container below the reduction case to catch the used oil. Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick, drain plug, and washer.
2. Allow the used oil to drain completely. Reinstall the drain plug and a new washer, and tighten securely.

NOTICE: Dispose of used motor oil responsibly.

Reduction case oil capacity: 0.30 L (0.32 US qt, 0.26 Imp qt)

NOTICE: Running the engine with a low transmission oil level can cause transmission damage.

3. With the engine level, fill with recommended oil to the upper limit mark on the dipstick. Check the oil level by inserting and removing the dipstick without screwing it into the filler hole.
4. Screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick and tighten securely.

Air Cleaner

A dirty air cleaner restricts airflow to the carburetor, reducing engine performance. Clean the air filter more often if operating in dusty areas.

NOTICE: Operating without an air filter or with a damaged filter allows dirt into the engine, causing rapid wear. This damage is not covered by warranty.

Inspection

Remove the air cleaner cover and inspect filter elements. Clean or replace dirty elements. Always replace damaged elements. For oil-bath air cleaners, check the oil level.

Cleaning (Dual-Filter Element Types)

Standard Dual-Filter Element Type

1. Remove the air cleaner cover nut and cover.
2. Remove the wing nut and the paper filter element.
3. Remove the foam filter from the paper filter.
4. Inspect both elements. Replace if damaged. Always replace the paper element at the scheduled interval.

Cyclone Dual-Filter Element Type

1. Tap the air cleaner cover several times on a hard surface to remove dirt, or blow compressed air [not exceeding 207 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm², 30 psi)] through the cover from the outside.
2. Wipe dirt from the inside of the air cleaner case and cover using a moist rag. Prevent dirt from entering the air duct to the carburetor.
3. Place the foam air filter element over the paper element, ensuring the gasket is in place. Tighten the wing nut securely.
4. Install the air cleaner cover and tighten the nut securely.

Oil-Bath Type

1. Remove the wing nut, air cleaner cap, and cover. Remove the air filter element.
2. Wash the cover and filter element in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Alternatively, clean in non-flammable solvent and dry.
3. Dip the filter element in clean engine oil, then squeeze out excess oil. The engine will smoke if too much oil is left in the foam.
4. Empty the used oil from the air cleaner case, wash out dirt with non-flammable solvent, and dry the case.
5. Fill the air cleaner case to the OIL LEVEL mark with the same oil recommended for the engine.

Oil capacities:

• GX240/GX270: 60 cm³ (2.0 US oz, 2.1 Imp oz)
• GX340/GX390: 80 cm³ (2.7 US oz, 2.8 Imp oz)

Low Profile Types

1. Unsnap air cleaner cover clips, remove the cover, and remove the air filter element.
2. Wash the element in a solution of household detergent and warm water, then rinse thoroughly, or wash in non-flammable or high flash point solvent. Allow the element to dry thoroughly.
3. Soak the air filter element in clean engine oil and squeeze out the excess oil. The engine will smoke during initial startup if too much oil is left in the element.
4. Reinstall the air filter element and the cover.

Sediment Cup

Cleaning

WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine and let it cool before handling fuel.
• Keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Keep away from your vehicle.
• Wipe up spills immediately.

1. Move the fuel valve lever to the OFF position, and remove the fuel sediment cup, filter, and O-ring.
2. Wash the sediment cup and filter in non-flammable solvent, and dry thoroughly.
3. Reinstall the filter, new O-ring, and the sediment cup. Tighten the sediment cup securely.
4. Move the fuel valve lever to the ON position and check for leaks.

Spark Plug

Spark Plugs

Recommended: BPR6ES (NGK) or W20EPR-U (DENSO).

This spark plug has the correct heat range for normal engine operating temperatures. An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage.

If the engine has been running, let it cool before servicing the spark plug. For good performance, the spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits.

1. Disconnect the spark plug cap, and remove any dirt from around the spark plug area.
2. Remove the spark plug with a 21 mm (13/16 in) spark plug wrench.
3. Visually inspect the spark plug. Replace it if damaged, badly fouled, if the sealing washer is in poor condition, or if the electrode is worn.
4. Measure the spark plug electrode gap with a wire-type feeler gauge. Correct the gap, if necessary, by carefully bending the side electrode. The gap should be: 0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.031 in).
5. Install the spark plug carefully, by hand, to avoid cross-threading.
6. After the spark plug is seated, tighten with a 21 mm (13/16 in) spark plug wrench to compress the sealing washer. When installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug seats. When reinstalling the original spark plug, tighten 1/8-1/4 turn after the spark plug seats.

TORQUE: 18 N·m (1.8 kgf·m, 13 lbf·ft)

NOTICE: A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can damage the threads in the cylinder head.

7. Attach the spark plug cap to the spark plug.

Spark Arrester (applicable types)

In Europe and other countries, servicing may be required by a dealer. A spark arrester may be standard or optional. Check local laws; it may be illegal to operate without one. A spark arrester is available from authorized Honda dealers. Service the spark arrester every 100 hours.

Allow the muffler to cool before servicing the spark arrester.

Spark Arrester Removal

1. Remove the two 8 mm nuts and the muffler.
2. Remove the three 4 mm screws from the exhaust deflector.
3. Remove the 6 mm screw and four 5 mm screws from the muffler protector.
4. Remove the two 5 mm screws from the spark arrester.

Spark Arrester Cleaning & Inspection

1. Use a brush to remove carbon deposits from the spark arrester screen. Be careful not to damage the screen. Replace if damaged.
2. Install the spark arrester, muffler protector, exhaust deflector, and muffler in reverse order of disassembly.

Idle Speed

Adjustment

1. Start the engine outdoors and allow it to warm up to operating temperature.
2. Move the throttle lever to its minimum position.
3. Turn the throttle stop screw to obtain the standard idle speed.

Standard idle speed: 1,400 ± 150 min¹ (rpm)

Helpful Tips & Suggestions

Storing Your Engine

Storage Preparation

Proper storage preparation keeps the engine trouble-free. Follow these steps to prevent rust and corrosion and make starting easier.

Cleaning

Allow the engine to cool for at least half an hour before cleaning. Clean exterior surfaces, touch up paint, and coat areas prone to rust with a light film of oil.

NOTICE: Using a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can force water into the air cleaner or muffler opening. Water in the air cleaner can soak the air filter, and water passing through the air filter or muffler can enter the cylinder, causing damage.

Fuel

NOTICE: Fuel formulations may deteriorate and oxidize rapidly, potentially causing damage to the carburetor and fuel system. Check with your servicing dealer for local storage recommendations.

Gasoline oxidizes and deteriorates, causing hard starting and gum deposits that clog the fuel system. If fuel deteriorates during storage, the carburetor and fuel system may need servicing or replacement.

The time gasoline can be left in the tank and carburetor varies based on gasoline blend, storage temperatures, and tank fill level. Air in a partially filled tank promotes deterioration. Very warm temperatures accelerate it.

Fuel system damage or engine performance problems from neglected storage preparation are not covered by warranty.

Adding a Gasoline Stabilizer to Extend Fuel Storage Life

When adding a stabilizer, fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline. If partially filled, air in the tank promotes fuel deterioration. Use only fresh gasoline for refueling containers.

1. Add gasoline stabilizer following the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes to ensure treated gasoline replaces untreated gasoline in the carburetor.
3. Stop the engine.

Draining the Fuel Tank and Carburetor

WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine and let it cool before handling fuel.
• Keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Keep away from your vehicle.
• Wipe up spills immediately.

1. Place an approved gasoline container below the carburetor and use a funnel to avoid spilling fuel.
2. Move the fuel valve lever to the OFF position, loosen the carburetor drain bolt (turn 1-2 turns counterclockwise), and drain fuel from the carburetor.
3. Remove the sediment cup, move the fuel valve lever to the ON position, and drain fuel from the fuel tank.
4. After all fuel has drained, tighten the carburetor drain bolt securely.
5. Reinstall a new O-ring and sediment cup.
6. Move the fuel valve lever to the OFF position.

Engine Oil for Storage

1. Change the engine oil (see page 9).
2. Remove the spark plug (see page 12).
3. Pour a teaspoon (5-10 cm³) of clean engine oil into the cylinder.
4. Pull the starter rope several times to distribute the oil in the cylinder.
5. Reinstall the spark plug.
6. Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt. This closes the valves so moisture cannot enter the cylinder. Return the starter rope gently.

Storage Precautions

If storing with gasoline in the tank and carburetor, reduce the hazard of vapor ignition. Select a well-ventilated storage area away from any appliance that operates with a flame (furnace, water heater, clothes dryer) or areas with spark-producing electric motors or power tools.

Avoid storage areas with high humidity to prevent rust and corrosion.

Keep the engine level in storage; tilting can cause fuel or oil leakage.

With the engine and exhaust system cool, cover the engine to keep out dust. A nonporous cover will trap moisture, promoting rust and corrosion.

If equipped with a battery for electric starter types, recharge the battery once a month to extend its service life.

Removal from Storage

Check your engine as described in the BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS section (page 4).

If fuel was drained, fill the tank with fresh gasoline. If you keep refueling gasoline, ensure it is fresh.

If the cylinder was coated with oil, the engine will smoke briefly at startup, which is normal.

Transporting

If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before loading equipment onto a transport vehicle. A hot engine can cause burns or ignite materials.

Keep the engine level when transporting to reduce the possibility of fuel leakage. Turn the fuel valve lever to the OFF position.

Taking Care of Unexpected Problems

Engine Will Not Start

Engine Lacks Power

Fuse Replacement (applicable types)

The electric starter relay circuit and battery charging circuit are protected by a fuse. If the fuse burns out, the electric starter will not operate. The engine can be started manually, but the battery will not charge.

1. Remove the 6x12 mm special screw from the rear cover of the engine switch box, and remove the rear cover.
2. Remove the fuse cover, then pull out and inspect the fuse.

If the fuse is burnt out, discard it and install a new fuse with the same rating as the removed one. Reinstall the cover.

NOTICE: Never use a fuse with a rating greater than the original. This can cause serious damage or fire.

3. Reinstall the rear cover and tighten the screw securely.

Technical Information

Serial Number Location

Record the engine serial number for parts ordering and warranty inquiries. The serial number and engine type are located on the engine.

Battery Connections for Electric Starter (applicable types)

Recommended Batteries:

• GX240: 12V-14 Ah ~ 12V-30 Ah
• GX270: 12V-18 Ah ~ 12V-30 Ah
• GX340: 12V-18 Ah ~ 12V-30 Ah
• GX390: 12V-18 Ah ~ 12V-30 Ah

WARNING: Be careful not to connect the battery in reverse polarity, as this will short circuit the battery charging system. Always connect the positive (+) battery cable to the battery terminal before the negative (-) battery cable. Keep sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

WARNING: The battery contains sulfuric acid (electrolyte), which is highly corrosive and poisonous. Getting electrolyte in your eyes or on your skin can cause serious burns. Wear protective clothing and eye protection. Keep children away from the battery.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

1. Connect the battery positive (+) cable to the starter solenoid terminal.
2. Connect the battery negative (-) cable to an engine mounting bolt, frame bolt, or other good engine ground connection.
3. Connect the battery positive (+) cable to the battery positive (+) terminal.
4. Connect the battery negative (-) cable to the battery negative (-) terminal.
5. Coat the terminals and cable ends with grease.

Remote Control Linkage

The throttle and choke control levers have holes for optional cable attachment. Illustrations show installation examples for solid wire and flexible, braided wire cables. A return spring may be needed for flexible cables. Loosen the throttle lever friction nut when operating with a remote-mounted control.

Emission Control System Information

Carburetor Modifications for High Altitude Operation

At high altitudes, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture is too rich, decreasing performance and increasing fuel consumption. A very rich mixture can foul the spark plug and cause hard starting. Operating at altitudes different from certification altitudes for extended periods may increase emissions.

High altitude performance can be improved by specific carburetor modifications. If operating above 610 meters (2,000 feet), have your servicing dealer perform these modifications. Engine horsepower will decrease about 3.5% for each 300 meter (1,000 foot) increase in altitude, even with modifications.

NOTICE: A carburetor modified for high altitude may be too lean for low altitude use, potentially causing engine overheating and damage. For low altitude use, have the carburetor returned to original factory specifications.

Source of Emissions

Combustion produces carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen can form photochemical smog under certain conditions. Carbon monoxide is toxic.

Honda uses air/fuel ratios and emissions control systems to reduce these emissions. Control technologies also reduce evaporative emissions.

The U.S. and California Clean Air Acts, and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)

U.S. EPA, California, and Canadian regulations require manufacturers to provide written instructions for the operation and maintenance of emission control systems. Following these instructions helps keep emissions within standards.

Tampering and Altering

NOTICE: Tampering is a violation of federal and California law. Tampering with or altering the emission control system may increase emissions beyond legal limits. Acts of tampering include removal or alteration of intake, fuel, or exhaust systems, or alterations that cause the engine to operate outside its design parameters.

Problems That May Affect Emissions

If you experience symptoms like hard starting, rough idle, misfiring, backfiring, black exhaust smoke, or high fuel consumption, have your engine inspected and repaired by an authorized Honda Power Equipment dealer.

Replacement Parts

Honda engines are designed, built, and certified to meet emission standards. Honda recommends using Honda Genuine parts for maintenance. While Honda cannot deny warranty coverage solely for using non-Honda parts or service at non-Honda locations, using aftermarket parts that are not of original design and quality may impair emissions performance. The aftermarket part manufacturer assumes responsibility that their part will not adversely affect emissions performance.

Maintenance

As the owner, you are responsible for completing all required maintenance listed in the owner's manual. Honda recommends retaining all receipts, but warranty coverage is not denied solely for lack of receipts or failure to ensure scheduled maintenance is completed. Follow the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (page 7). This schedule assumes normal use. Sustained high-load, high-temperature, or dusty/wet conditions may require more frequent service.

Air Index (Models certified for California)

An Air Index Information label helps compare engine emissions performance. A lower Air Index means less pollution. The durability description indicates the engine's emission durability period (useful life of the emission control system). See your EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY (page 18) for details.

Emission Control System Warranty

Your Honda Power Equipment engine is designed, built, and equipped to meet U.S. EPA, Environment Canada, and California Air Resources Board emission standards. American Honda Motor provides warranty coverage for engines in the United States and its territories. Honda Canada provides coverage for engines in Canada.

Warranty Coverage: Honda Power Equipment engines certified to emission regulations are covered to be free from defects in materials and workmanship that may keep them from meeting applicable emission requirements for a minimum of 2 years or the length of the Honda Power Equipment Distributor's Limited Warranty, whichever is longer, from the original date of delivery. The warranty is transferable.

Warranty repairs are made without charge for diagnosis, parts, and labor. For warranty claims, contact an authorized Honda Power Equipment dealer or the following:

• American Honda: Email: powerequipmentemissions@ahm.honda.com, Telephone: (888) 888-3139
• Honda Canada: Telephone: (888) 9HONDA9, (888) 946-6329

Covered components include all parts whose failure would increase an engine's emissions of any regulated pollutant or evaporative emissions. Specific warranty terms, limitations, and service procedures are in the separately included emissions warranty statement, available on the Honda Power equipment website or at http://powerequipment.honda.com/support/warranty.

Specifications

GX240/GX270 (PTO shaft type S, with fuel tank)

GX340/GX390 (PTO shaft type S, with fuel tank)

* The power rating is the net power output tested on a production engine for the engine model and measured in accordance with SAE J1349. Actual power output for the engine installed in the final machine will vary depending on numerous factors, including operating speed, environmental conditions, maintenance, and other variables.

Tune-up Specifications

Quick Reference Information

• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (Pump octane 86 or higher; Research octane 91 or higher).
• Engine oil: SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later, for general use.
• Reduction case oil: Same oil as engine oil.
• Spark plug: BPR6ES (NGK) or W20EPR-U (DENSO).
• Maintenance Before each use: Check engine oil level, reduction case oil, and air filter.
• Maintenance First 20 hours: Change engine oil, change reduction case oil.
• Maintenance Subsequent: Refer to the maintenance schedule on page 7.

Wiring Diagrams

Diagrams illustrate wiring for engines with and without the Oil Alert system and electric starter.

Consumer Information

Warranty and Distributor/Dealer Locator Information

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands: Visit www.honda-engines.com.

Canada: Call (888) 9HONDA9 or visit www.honda.ca.

For European Area: Visit http://www.honda-engines-eu.com.

Australia: Call (03) 9270 1348 or visit www.hondampe.com.au.

Customer Service Information

Dealership personnel are trained professionals. If you encounter a problem, discuss it with the dealership's management (Service Manager, General Manager, or Owner). Most problems are resolved this way.

If dissatisfied with dealership management's decision:

• United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands: Contact the Honda Regional Engine Distributor for your area. If still dissatisfied, contact the Honda Office.
• All Other Areas: Contact the Honda Office as shown.

Honda's Office Information

When writing or calling, provide: Equipment manufacturer's name and model, engine model/serial/type, dealer name (seller and service), date of purchase, your name/address/phone, and a detailed description of the problem.

United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands: American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Power Equipment Division, Customer Relations Office, 4900 Marconi Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005-8847. Telephone: (770) 497-6400, (888) 888-3139 (Toll free).

Canada: Honda Canada, Inc. Visit www.honda.ca for address information. Telephone: (888) 9HONDA9 (Toll free), (888) 946-6329 (Toll free).

Australia: Honda Australia Motorcycle and Power Equipment Pty. Ltd., 1954-1956 Hume Highway, Campbellfield Victoria 3061. Telephone: (03) 9270 1111, Facsimile: (03) 9270 1133.

For European Area: Honda Motor Europe Logistics NV., European Engine Center. http://www.honda-engines-eu.com.

All Other Areas: Please contact the Honda distributor in your area for assistance.