Honda HRR216VKA Lawn Mower Owner's Manual

Welcome

Congratulations on your selection of a Honda lawn mower! This manual contains information on how to operate your mower safely and get the best results. Please read it carefully.

For scheduled maintenance, Honda Power Equipment servicing dealership personnel are specially trained and supported by American Honda.

Please read the Distributor's Limited Warranty and Emission Control System Warranty for details on coverage and responsibilities.

For Your Safety

Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. This manual provides important safety messages and alerts you to potential hazards. Always use your own good judgment.

Safety Instructions

Safety information is presented in several forms:

• Safety Labels on the mower.
• Instructions for correct and safe operation.
• Safety Messages, identified by a safety alert symbol and signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

Signal Words Mean:

• ⚠️ 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.
• ℹ️ NOTICE: Your engine or other property can be damaged if you don't follow instructions.

California Proposition 65: Engine exhaust contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm.

Important Message to Parents: Lawn mowers are tools, not toys. Ensure children are old enough, strong enough, and have the coordination to operate the controls safely. Do not allow anyone to operate the mower who takes unnecessary risks or disobeys rules.

Safety Label Locations

Labels warn of potential hazards. If a label is missing or unreadable, contact an authorized Honda dealer for a replacement.

• ⚠️ WARNING: OBJECT THROWN BY BLADE CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. Inspect area, remove debris, keep children/others away, wear eye protection, and follow manual instructions. Ensure guard is closed or bag is in place.
• ⚠️ WARNING: Operation may create sparks that can start fires around dry vegetation. A spark arrestor may be required. Contact local fire agencies for regulations.
• ⚠️ DANGER: KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY from the mower deck.
• ⚠️ CAUTION: HOT MUFFLER CAN BURN YOU. Stay away if the engine has been running.

Parts and Controls

Identify key components of the lawn mower:

• Handlebar: Contains controls and adjustment knobs.
• Blade Control Lever: Engages/disengages the blade.
• Recoil Starter Grip: Used to start the engine.
• Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick: For checking and adding engine oil.
• Fuel Tank Cap: For refueling the mower.
• Smart Drive Control: Controls mower speed.
• Cutting Height Adjustment Lever: Adjusts the mower deck height.
• Spark Plug Cap: Connects to the spark plug.
• Carburetor: Mixes fuel and air for combustion.
• Air Filter: Cleans air entering the engine.
• Muffler: Reduces engine noise.
• Grass Bag: Collects grass clippings.
• Rear Discharge Guard: Covers the discharge chute.

Fuel Valve: Located near the fuel tank, with ON and OFF positions.

Initial Mower Setup

List of Parts

Ensure all parts are present upon unpacking: Grass bag frame, Grass bag, Engine oil, and Owner's manual.

Adjust the Handlebar

1. With handlebar adjust knobs unlocked, pull the blade control lever and raise the handlebar to the mowing position.
2. Align adjust knobs with holes on the handle stay. Lowest holes provide the highest handlebar position.
3. Turn adjust knobs 90 degrees to lock them, ensuring both sides are at the same height.
4. Remove any cardboard from around the handlebar.

Before Each Operation

Your safety is your responsibility. Preparation reduces risk.

Pre-Operation Inspection:

• Ensure the mower is on a level surface.
• Check for oil or gasoline leaks.
• Look for signs of damage.
• Check all controls for proper operation.
• Inspect blades for wear and tightness (refer to page 11).
• Check that all nuts, bolts, and screws are tightened.
• Check the air filter (page 12) and oil level (page 6).
• Check the fuel level (page 7).

Check Your Mowing Area

Inspect the area for potential hazards like stones, sticks, or wire that could be thrown by the blades. Clear the area of people and pets, especially children. Adjust mowing speed and swath based on grass condition.

Add Engine Oil

The mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL. Add the entire contents of the included oil bottle or SAE 10W-30 API service category SJ oil. Do not overfill, as this can cause white or blue smoke from the muffler. After filling, remove the "The engine has no oil" tag.

Assemble the Grass Bag

1. Turn the grass bag right-side out.
2. Pull frame support legs outward and slide into eyelets.
3. Install the assembled frame into the fabric bag, exposing the handle.

Clip Director®

The Clip Director adjusts the mower for bagging or mulching.

• Mulching: Set the lever to the MULCH position (shutter door fully closed).
• Bag or Rear Discharge: Set the lever to the BAG position (shutter door fully open). To discharge clippings to the rear, remove the grass bag and leave the Clip Director in the BAG position.

Some grass accumulation in the discharge opening may occur in MULCH mode. To clear it, set the Clip Director to BAG, engage the blade control lever, and start the engine.

If the Clip Director is difficult to move or the lever won't lock, clear grass clippings from around the shutter door or clean the assembly with a garden hose.

Grass Bag

The grass bag collects clippings. Empty it before it is 90% full for optimal performance. Mowing damp grass in the morning can minimize dust.

⚠️ CAUTION: An excessively worn grass bag may allow objects to be thrown toward the operator, causing serious injury. Replace a worn bag.

Installation (Grass Bag)

1. Raise the discharge guard and hook the grass bag onto the mower deck.
2. Release the discharge guard to secure the bag.

Removal

1. Raise the discharge guard, grasp the grass bag handle, and remove the bag.
2. Release the discharge guard.
3. Lift the bag through the handlebar opening or remove it to the rear.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Each wheel adjusts to one of six settings. Adjust with the engine OFF. Pull each lever toward the wheel and move to a notch. Set all levers to the same position. Forward for tall grass, rearward for short grass.

Approximate Cutting Heights:

• 1-1/8 in (28 mm)
• 1-3/4 in (44 mm)
• 2-1/2 in (60 mm)
• 3 in (75 mm)
• 3-1/2 in (90 mm)
• 4 in (102 mm)

If unsure, start with a high setting and adjust as needed after mowing a small area.

Check the Oil Level

1. Unscrew and wipe the filler cap/dipstick clean.
2. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in. Check the oil level against the upper and lower limit marks.
3. If low, add oil to the upper limit mark. Do not overfill.
4. Screw the filler cap/dipstick back securely.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Running the engine with low oil can cause damage. Using nondetergent or 2-stroke oil can shorten engine life or damage the engine.

Add Fuel

Use regular unleaded gasoline with an 86 octane rating or higher. Do not use stale or contaminated gasoline, or an oil/gasoline mixture. Avoid dirt or water in the fuel tank.

You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol, provided it contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors. Fuels with higher percentages may cause starting problems or damage to fuel system parts.

⚠️ WARNING: Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors with the engine OFF, away from flames and sparks. Wipe up spills immediately.

ℹ️ NOTICE: For infrequent use (more than 4 weeks), refer to "AVOIDING FUEL-RELATED PROBLEMS" on page 19.

Operation

Avoid starting or operating the engine in enclosed areas like garages due to carbon monoxide gas. Breathing this gas can cause unconsciousness or death.

You may hear a clicking noise when moving the mower without engaging Smart Drive; this is normal.

Safe Mowing Practices

• Avoid Rotating Blades: Keep hands and feet away from the mower deck. Shut off the engine before adjusting cutting height or working near the deck. Wear gloves and disconnect the spark plug cap when cleaning or handling blades.
• Clear Mowing Area: Inspect the area for objects that could be thrown by the blades. Never operate over gravel. Striking objects can cause severe engine damage, not covered by warranty.
• Keep Shields in Place: Guards and shields protect from thrown objects and hot parts. Keep all shields in place when the engine is running.
• Refuel With Care: Refuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area with the engine OFF. Keep flames and sparks away. Store gasoline in approved containers.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long pants, eye protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended to reduce injury risk.
• Stop the Engine When Not Mowing: Release the blade control lever if you need to leave the mower, even briefly.
• Avoid Slopes: Avoid slopes over 20°. Mow across slopes, not up and down. Mowing on damp grass increases slip risk. Mowing on steep slopes can starve the engine of oil, causing damage not covered by warranty. Keep all four wheels on the ground.
• Avoid Obstacles: Be careful around gravel, stones, sprinkler heads, or tree roots. If the blade hits something, stop the engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug cap, and check for damage. Vibration often indicates serious trouble.

⚠️ WARNING: A worn, cracked, or damaged blade can break and become a projectile. Thrown objects can cause serious injury. Inspect blades regularly and do not operate with worn or damaged blades. Parts damaged by impact are not covered by warranty.

Operating the Controls

Blade Control Lever

Pull the lever back against the handlebar to start and run the engine. The blades rotate when the engine starts. Hold the lever fully against the handlebar for smooth operation. Release the lever to stop the engine and blades.

Smart Drive Control

With the engine running and blades rotating, push the Smart Drive control forward to propel the mower. Ground speed increases with pressure. Release the control to disengage the drive.

Adjusting the Smart Drive Control: The control can be adjusted up or down for operator comfort. Slide the adjuster to unlock, move the control, then release the adjuster to lock.

Starting the Engine

Start the engine in a clear area where blades can turn freely.

1. Turn the fuel valve ON.
2. Pull back and hold the blade control lever against the handlebar.
3. Pull the starter grip briskly after feeling resistance. Return gently.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Allow the engine to run for at least three minutes after starting a cold engine, especially in cooler temperatures, for optimal performance.

Stopping the Engine

1. Release the blade control lever.
2. When finished mowing, turn the fuel valve OFF.

Servicing Your Mower

Proper maintenance ensures safe, economical operation and reduces air pollution.

⚠️ WARNING: Improper maintenance or failure to correct problems can cause serious malfunctions, injury, or death. Always follow inspection and maintenance recommendations.

For difficult tasks or those requiring special tools, consult a Honda technician. The maintenance schedule applies to normal conditions; consult your dealer for severe conditions.

Maintenance Safety

• Ensure the engine is OFF before any maintenance.
• Be sure there is adequate ventilation when operating the engine.
• Read instructions before beginning and have the necessary tools.
• Be careful when working around gasoline to prevent fire or explosion. Use nonflammable solvent for cleaning parts. Keep sparks and flames away from fuel parts.

⚠️ WARNING: Improper maintenance can cause unsafe conditions, leading to serious injury or death. Always follow manual procedures and precautions.

Maintenance Schedule

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

(2) Change engine oil every 25 hours when used under heavy load or in high outside air temperatures.

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

Failure to follow this maintenance schedule could result in non-warrantable failures.

Blade Inspection and Replacement

Blade Inspection

1. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
2. Disconnect the spark plug cap.
3. Tilt the mower to the right side (fuel cap up) to prevent fuel leakage.
4. Inspect blades for damage, cracks, and rust or corrosion.

A worn, cracked, or damaged blade can break, becoming a projectile. A dull blade can be sharpened, but excessively worn, bent, cracked, or damaged blades must be replaced. Blades are designed for specific applications; use only Honda Genuine replacement parts.

Blade Replacement

1. Remove the two blade bolts using a 14 mm socket wrench. Use a wooden block to prevent blade rotation. Remove the blades.
2. Clean dirt and grass from the blade mounting area.
3. Install sharpened or replacement blades with the original bolts and special washers. Ensure correct orientation.
4. Tighten blade bolts with a torque wrench to 36-43 ft-lb (49-59 N·m). Use a wooden block to prevent rotation.

⚠️ WARNING: Improperly torqued blade bolts can cause the blade to loosen and be thrown, causing serious injury or death. Ensure bolts are torqued properly.

Blade Mounting Bolt Inspection

Inspect blade bolts for damage or looseness. If loose, use a torque wrench to tighten to the specified torque. If you lack a torque wrench, have a dealer perform this service.

Oil Change

Change oil after the first month or 5 hours, then every 6 months or 50 hours. Change more frequently under heavy load or high temperatures. Drain oil while the engine is warm.

1. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
2. Wipe the oil filler area clean and remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.
3. Place a container to catch oil and tilt the mower on its right side. Allow oil to drain completely.
4. Dispose of used oil properly at a recycling center.
5. Fill with recommended oil (SAE 10W-30, API SJ or later). Do not overfill. Allow a few minutes for oil to settle and check the level. Refill amount is approximately 12.0-13.5 oz (0.35-0.40 L).

ℹ️ NOTICE: Using nondetergent or 2-stroke oil can damage the engine.

Engine Oil Recommendations

Use SAE 10W-30 oil for general use. Other viscosities may be used depending on outside air temperature. Always use oil with API service category SJ or later.

Air Filter

Clean the air filter after the first 25 hours of use, then every 6 months or 50 hours. Clean more often in dusty areas. Replace the filter every 2 years or 150 hours.

A clean air filter prevents dirt from entering the engine, which can cause wear or blockages.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Operating without a proper air filter can cause engine damage not covered by warranty.

Cleaning Steps:

1. Press cover tabs and remove the air cleaner cover.
2. Remove the filter.
3. Inspect the filter; replace if damaged.
4. Clean the filter by tapping it or blowing compressed air (not exceeding 30 psi) through it from the inside. Do not brush off dirt.
5. Wipe the inside of the air cleaner housing and cover with a moist rag, being careful not to let dirt enter the air duct.
6. Reinstall the filter and cover, ensuring tabs are locked.

Spark Plug

Replace the spark plug every 2 years or 150 hours. Recommended plug: NGK - BPR5ES.

ℹ️ NOTICE: An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage. Ensure the plug is properly gapped and clean.

Replacement Steps:

1. Allow the engine to cool, disconnect the spark plug cap, and clean the area around the plug.
2. Remove the spark plug with a 13/16 in (21 mm) wrench.
3. Inspect the plug; replace if worn, cracked, or chipped.
4. Measure the electrode gap (0.028-0.031 in / 0.7-0.8 mm) and adjust if necessary by bending the side electrode.
5. Install the new plug by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten with the wrench after seating.
6. Spark plug torque: 14 ft-lb (20 N·m).
7. Reconnect the spark plug cap.

ℹ️ NOTICE: A loose plug can overheat the engine; overtightening can damage the cylinder head threads.

Spark Arrester (Optional Part)

The spark arrester should be serviced every 100 hours. It is not factory-equipped on all models. Check local laws regarding its use. An optional USDA-approved spark arrester is available.

Servicing: Allow the engine to cool, disconnect the spark plug cap, remove the spark arrester from the muffler, clean carbon deposits from the screen, and reinstall.

Blade Control Check

1. Start the engine outdoors.
2. Release the blade control lever. The engine should stop quickly. If not, contact a Honda dealer for repair.

Smart Drive Cable Check/Adjustment

Cable Check

With the engine off, set the Smart Drive control to its lowest position. Pull the mower backward. The rear wheels should lock up before the Smart Drive paddles are straight up-and-down. If not, perform the cable adjustment.

Cable Adjustment

With the engine off, loosen the adjuster jam nut. Without pushing the Smart Drive control, pull the mower backward to check wheel resistance. If no resistance exists, tighten the adjuster one turn at a time until wheels lock when pulling rearward. Turn the adjuster in the LOOSEN direction 8 complete revolutions. Tighten the jam nut to lock the adjuster.

Transporting

Allow the engine to cool before loading. Turn the fuel valve OFF to prevent fuel leakage. Remove the grass bag if installed.

Use a suitable loading ramp or have two people lift the mower. Position the mower securely on the transport vehicle, block the wheels, and tie it down, keeping straps away from controls.

Fold the handlebar to reduce space requirements (see page 15).

Storage

Proper storage preparation is essential for trouble-free operation and appearance. Follow these steps:

• Drain or treat the fuel.
• Change the oil and coat the engine cylinder.
• Clean the mower, engine, and grass bag.
• Choose a suitable storage location.

Fuel

See "AVOIDING FUEL-RELATED PROBLEMS" on page 19 for recommended procedures. Fuel system damage from neglected preparation is not covered by warranty.

Oil

Change the engine oil (page 12). Add a teaspoon of clean engine oil into the cylinder to prevent rust. Pull the starter rope several times to distribute oil, then reinstall the spark plug. Pull the starter rope slowly until resistance is felt to close the valves.

Cleaning

Mower Deck: Turn the fuel valve OFF. Rest the mower on its right side (fuel cap up). Wear heavy gloves. Avoid getting water into controls, cables, or near the engine air cleaner or muffler.

Engine: Wash by hand. Prevent water from entering the air cleaner and exhaust opening.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Using a garden hose or pressure washer can force water into the air filter, causing engine damage. Allow a hot engine to cool before washing.

Removing From Storage

When unfolding the handlebar, ensure the adjust knobs are locked to secure it. Check your mower as described in "BEFORE OPERATION" (page 4).

If the cylinder was coated with oil during storage, the engine may smoke briefly at startup.

Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Start

Loss of Power

Vibration

Mowing and Bagging Problems

Technical Information

Serial Number Locations

Two serial numbers exist: one for the engine and one for the mower frame. Record them for parts ordering and technical inquiries.

High Altitude Operation

At altitudes above 5,000 feet (1,500 meters), the standard carburetor mixture is too rich, leading to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption. Specific carburetor modifications are available from a dealer to improve high-altitude performance. However, operating at low altitudes with high-altitude modifications can cause the engine to overheat and result in damage. Consult your dealer for proper settings.

Emission Control System

The combustion process produces emissions (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons). Honda uses air/fuel ratios and other control systems to reduce these emissions and evaporative emissions.

U.S. and California Clean Air Acts, and Canadian Environment Protection Act: Manufacturers must provide instructions for operating and maintaining emission control systems. Tampering with or altering the emission control system is a violation of federal and California law and can increase emissions beyond legal limits.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Tampering is a violation of Federal and California law.

Acts constituting tampering include removal or alteration of intake, fuel, or exhaust systems, or altering speed-adjusting mechanisms.

Specifications

Mower Features

Dimensions and Weights

Engine Design and Performance

Transmission Design and Performance

Maintenance

* Actual amount will vary due to residual oil in the engine. Always use the dipstick to confirm the actual level (page 6).

** Do not try to increase the engine speed above the maximum governed speed; the blades could fracture and come apart.

Avoiding Fuel-Related Problems

Proper maintenance includes fuel system care. Gasoline deteriorates quickly (in as little as 30 days), causing problems. Fuel system damage from deteriorated gasoline is not covered by warranty.

Precautions to Prevent Fuel-Related Problems:

• During Normal Mowing Season: Do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol. Store gasoline in clean, sealed containers away from sunlight. Purchase only enough for 30-60 days. If storing longer, add fuel stabilizer. When finished mowing, turn the fuel valve OFF and fill the fuel tank.
• 3 to 4 Weeks Before Next Use: Turn the fuel valve OFF and fill the fuel tank. Run the engine until it runs out of gas (approx. 3 minutes).
• 1 to 3 Months Before Next Use: Fill the mower's fuel tank with fresh gasoline. Add fuel stabilizer according to manufacturer's instructions. Run the engine outdoors for 10 minutes. Stop the engine, turn the fuel valve OFF, and run the engine until it runs out of gasoline (approx. 3 minutes).
• More Than 3 Months Before Next Use: Start the engine and run it until the entire fuel system is empty. Do not allow gasoline to remain in the mower for more than 3 months of inactivity. Recycle or dispose of old fuel properly.

Customer Information

Parts, Accessories, and Service Items

Contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer for parts, accessories, and service items. Common replacement parts include spark plugs, air filters, blades, blade bolts, spring washers, grass bags, and tires.

Dealer Locator Information

Find a dealer at powerequipment.honda.com.

How to Contact Honda

Honda Power Equipment dealership personnel are trained professionals. If problems persist, contact the dealership management. For further assistance, contact American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Power Equipment Division Customer Relations Office via mail or telephone (770) 497-6400.

Honda Publications

Owner's Manuals, Shop Manuals, and Parts Catalogs are available through Honda dealers or at powerequipment.honda.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit powerequipment.honda.com for FAQs and more information.

Distributor's Limited Warranty

This warranty covers Honda Power Equipment products distributed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. It applies to private residential use for 36 months and commercial/rental/institutional use for 3 months. To qualify, the product must be purchased in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands from an authorized dealer.

Honda will repair or replace defective parts at its option, without charge for parts or labor, during the warranty period. Warranty repairs are made at the owner's expense for transportation to the dealer.

Exclusions: Neglect, improper maintenance, use of non-genuine Honda parts, collision damage, normal wear and tear, and consumable parts (spark plugs, filters, blades, etc.) are generally excluded.

American Honda disclaims responsibility for incidental or consequential damages. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this written warranty.

Emission System Warranty

Honda engines comply with U.S. EPA, Environment Canada, and California emission regulations. Honda warrants the emission control system for two years, provided there has been no abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. Honda will repair or replace defective emission-related parts at no cost.

Owner's Warranty Responsibility: Complete all required maintenance as listed in the owner's manual. Retain receipts. Failure to do so may result in denial of warranty coverage if a part fails due to lack of maintenance.

Exclusions: Failures not resulting from defects in material or workmanship, or those caused by abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, misuse, or unauthorized alteration, are not covered.

Product Registration

Register your lawn mower within 30 days of purchase to receive important service information, product updates, or recall notices. Registration is confidential and does not affect your warranty rights.

You can register by completing and mailing the postage-paid card or online at powerequipment.honda.com.

Online Registration: Visit powerequipment.honda.com, click on "Product Registration," complete the required information, and submit.