Honda Mowers Are Not For Everyone

[@jesusdrummer21]

Found 2 Hondas in the Fall...one is a 1988 the other a 1995. Cleaned carbs. Put 2 bolts in for carbs. So I never have to deal with trying to line up spacers and gaskets. Amazing the 160s are. Oil changes? Every year.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Matt Caldwell and Nice find!

[@ronl2463]

Back in 2005 I bought a brand new Craftman lawn mower. The first time I used it the drive belt came off. I put it back on and finished my yard then loaded it back into the car and took it back. Bought a Honda mower and kept it for 14 years with no problems except the deck started to rust out. Got another with the plastic deck and again no problems with it either.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Ron L, I appreciate this story

[@dorianmorrell2725]

For those who still have metal decks, I paint the used oil on the underside of a clear deck each year. Not good for paint, but better than the paint at keeping rust at bay. My record is 21 years of doing this to a mower I got used and already had some runt. Even then, the mower died for other reasons, not rust.

[@Speed.Racer.5]

I have a 10 year old Honda mower and a 22 year old Honda snowblower. I've never had a single problem with either. Pretty easy to justify the higher initial price.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow very nice!

[@Anunnaki-z7i]

Thanks for the great videos. I have a Toro SR21S that I purchased on April 2000 and it is still running well. I do all the maintenance on it. Last June I purchased a like new Honda HRX21 from a neighbor for $60.00 I did not needed another mower but for that price i could not pass it up. (It retails for about $850.00 locally) He used it a couple of times and then decided to hire someone to mow his lawn and the mower was taking too much space in his garage. That Honda mower is awesome. The Toro took a well deserve break last summer. It pays to be nice to your neighbors.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice Toro mower, and the Honda was a steal!

[@Anunnaki-z7i]

@@HomeGaragechannel Definitely a steal. The Toro was purchased on 2000 not 2020. 23 years old and still running great.

[@oldroscoe2590]

It doesn't matter to me. I want a mower that's easy to start, easy to push, enough power for the job and doesn't clog when I finally get around to mowing. I've never bought a new mower because a non running one always showed up that I could get running. Kind of like feeding stray cats, word gets around and before you know it you have a bunch of them.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I like how you put that!

[@lewiemcneely9143]

@@HomeGaragechannel Gravely tractors are like that too. I had 5 at one time.

[@nicolabooth6075]

I have two Honda mowers , one small 16inch Honda Isy and one 21 inch Honda HRD535 and both of them are absolutely great. I do my own servicing and any other bits that they need and they start, run and work great and I love them and I find working on them, ie servicing them very easy. Both my Honda's get a very lot of work in the season and they both get an oil change at least twice sometimes three times a year depending on the work load. I also service and fix friend's petrol gardening equipment and enjoy it. Absolutely love you're videos, please keep up the great work and the great videos you do.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Nicola Booth for the comment I appreciate it

[@davidmollard9832]

I bought a new mower last fall before leaf season. Wasn't sure how readily available gas equipment was going to be. Craftsman with Briggs and rear wheel self propelled. Love it. I can't fathom buying a brand new mower each year. Such a waste of a mower and money. But I take care of and use my stuff up before replacing

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right!

[@TargaWheels]

In one word: Quality. They have their "lemons". But in the long run, especially for commercial use, Honda engines will out-do just about all the others.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you TargaWheels

[@matthewpiper1421]

Had a craftsman lawnmower with a honda engine on it, it ran excellent. I ran it for 10 years and when i sold it it still ran like new. Have a ryobi pressure washer with the same honda engine on it and again never an issue but with even a honda you still have to maintain them.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Matthew Piper.

[@558vulcanxh]

Very interesting, my two Hondas a 135 and a 160 have never let me down at all.Growing up with motorbikes, whose carbs were gravity fed tike the Honda, its second nature to turn the fuel valve off incase it floods.Annual oil changes , no problems. I bent the crankshaft on the 135 when I caught a newly felled conifer stump but it just vibrets and runs well in its sweet spot . Only snag with the 160 is the drive pulley is too small so you stroll along behind it , can't get a larger diameter one to gear it up. That apart, I'd recommend one to anyone , I live in the UK and I was pleased to see both mowers were made in the USA. The 135 is 17 years old and the 160 is 10. My experience anyway, good luck 👍

[@558vulcanxh]

Vibrates typo 😑

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for sharing that

[@mikespain8655]

As many people know, Honda will be discontinuing their push and self-propelled gas mowers September of 2023. Honda makes a solid product. Ten years experience working on small engines is NOT limited experience. You are a humble person. Most of my customers are very limited mechanically. Not the correct tools, lack patience, no desire to learn, etc. That said, you can only be good at so many things in life.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Mike Spain, I appreciate this comment a lot!

[@jgonzz10028]

Save big $$$ by getting a 20-30 year old Lawn-Boy. They are built like an old Mercedes (W123), smooth running, easy to get parts (even NOS) and unusually quiet. These are most often well cared for over the years and sold through estate sales or auctions. Lawn-Boy engines require the oil+fuel mix ALWAYS, so don't goof it up..

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you jgonzz10028

[@bertgrau3934]

I enjoy your videos, always informative and educational. I have been working on my own mowers, weed eaters, and chain saws since 1980's. After I retired, I started working on mowers for others. It been fun and I have learned a lot about small engines both 2 cycle and 4 cycle. I do like the 2 cylinder engines, just my preference

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I've only worked on a few 2 cylinders and from those experiences I'd to have more to of them too. Thank you Bert Grau for your time.

[@johnraley5713]

I bought a Honda mower with hydrostatic transmission and blade clutch in the mid 90s. I had the bottom seal go out causing the oil level to drop quickly and I killed it when I noticed the engine overheating. I thought it was ok but it kept bending pushrods. I finally figured out that a valve guide came lose. I peened it in and it has been working great ever since.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow nice work!

[@kirbyyasha]

I ended up getting a Honda mower from 2004 that needed a lot of work. But I did it all to replace a Craftsman mower that just always had problems of some sort and I take care of my equipment. The biggest thing is the Honda vibrates way less, thus my hands do not go numb from mowing like they did with the Craftsman from 2012 and a Briggs and Stratton motor.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice I think they vibrate a lot less too.

[@anthonyhawkins3576]

I still have a Honda mower (about 10 yrs old). Not sure what I should do going forward as I read that Honda will quit making them this year. I didn't read the reason, but I'm guessing it relates to the people who want to spend a couple of hundred dollars more to be green.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

pretty much

[@anthonyhawkins3576]

@@mc2whls Oh, it will go fine. People (especially younger ppl) will accept the higher pricetag and the need for new batteries every couple of years. They will accept that as cost of being a greenie liberal. In the meantime, the juice they use to charge those batteries will continue to be provided by coal & natural gas, and this world will keep using up resources to make windmills and lithium batteries. All because of their mistaken view that humans have caused global warming.

[@stonz42]

I have an old non-propelled Honda 216 (with a manual choke too!) that I inherited from my grandfather as a backup machine. It hadn't been started in a few years and still had some old fuel in tank. Air filter, plug, and oil were filthy as well, yet it started on the second pull with new fuel and I mowed my 1 acre lawn with it last weekend. I changed the oil, filter, and plug and hope to have many more years with it. Unfortunately, it also had a lot of old grass caked under the deck and it's partially rotted out now, but otherwise its a pretty awesome machine.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, I hope it serves you well.

[@marktarascio4766]

I have a Honda rear engine riding lawn mower I bought in 1983 still runs great .I also have 2 push mowers one 15 yrs old And the other 8 years old I recommend shutting the fuel valve off for the winter and pulling the float bowls off the carburetor and cleaning them out each year a new plug and filter and oil change.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice advice!

[@marktarascio4766]

@@HomeGaragechannel One more thing ..when I pick up my gas I regular 87 gas and I mix in Sta-Bil gas treatment immediately. I have meter had any gas related problems.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, you're doing it right.

[@tnrodgers]

I have an HRX 217 Honda, good mower. The drive belt and cable have been the only thorn in my side. One pull start, easy to maintain, big bag for clippings, composite deck. Solid mower.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes agreed!

[@SNAO69]

2 years ago, I got a free 1985 model HR 214 from my teacher. He said if I can fix it, I can have it. I managed to get it working again and it lasted me 2 months. When I fixed it, I was checking the compression and it was already low. Well 2 months later, it lost all power but could still start, I pulled on the rope, no resistance. I still miss that mower, especially the blade disengagement feature. Hopefully someday Ill find another. Great video BTW

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for sharing that. It seems to have left a good impression on you

[@vickilund7206]

This is without a doubt the best commentary on Honda mowers I have ever heard and I have a new one from 1995 and a Master Series 1 and also the new green mulch knob one.... I also have a well-used hrx217 that is a great Mower and it has been used by a commercial operator for the last 10 or so years....Honda Rules

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you!

[@Amedeus1756]

I have a Honda basic model HRS 216 that I bought four years ago and I'm very happy with it. The only problem I had with it and I mention this in a few other comments, that the air filter cover would fall off while mowing. I always made sure the hinges were hinged right when I put the cover back on, start mowing again, two minutes later the cover falls off again, very annoying to say the least. Solved the problem by putting two rubber bands around the cover.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice way of solving that issue. I would use a heat gun, or soldering iron to bend the plastic arms back into position

[@Amedeus1756]

@@HomeGaragechannel I tried that but gravity always wins, at least in this Universe. They just go back to where they were before,and the cover would falls off again.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nothing wrong with that.

[@Amedeus1756]

@@HomeGaragechannel It would take about three weeks and then I would find the cover right behind me, sometime I think my mower it's got a mind of his own, it does it on purpose to aggravate me .

[@neighborhoodsquirrel2504]

The main reason I am a Honda mower fan is the crankshaft material. I had a mower with Tecumseh engine. One day, I hit a pop sprinkler head, and it stopped the blade. I was surprised that bent the crankshaft. I had to replaced that mower, and my coworker convinced me to get a Honda mower. Later on, I was mowing tall grass, and this time, I hit a big rock, and the rock stopped the blade. I was surprised to learn crankshaft was not bent. That experience alone convinced me that Honda is worth the extra money. Another bonus is it seems I refuel the Honda engine less often compared with Tecumseh engine.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow, I didn't realize they were that strong . thank you for sharing that with us.

[@haneyoakie14]

You made that air box reinstallation look easy. I struggle with that every time.

[@dan7102]

Get two M6x120mm threaded rods (metric) and screw them into the block while installing the gaskets, carb, and box. Holds everything in place. Then unscrew one at a time and replace with the bolt while holding in place. Little trick that works well with the older ones. I think Honda finally switched it to fixed studs with nuts at the end.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

practice, lots of practice

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that works too.

[@haneyoakie14]

@@HomeGaragechannel lots of truth there. I get lots of practice doing the same mower 15 times until I get it right. The stud trick does work also.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I have yet to try but I'm sure it works great from all the information I've gotten.

[@JasonJayJJ1]

The Honda Nexite decks (the non-metal version deck) don't clog up with stuck grass nearly as much as my Toro Super-Recyclers. 9 inch diameter sealed bearing wheels are also a very nice upgrade from most mowers. Larger wheels are smoother on the ground. Double blade mowers (very hard to find in 21" style) are way superior to Toro single-blade mowers. Once you have double blade you can't go back to single blade b/c I have almost no clumps coming out the sides anymore, plus I can go a few more days between cuts versus when I used Toro's. It's a shame California, Hawaii, and DC are banning gas mowers in the future. That's why Honda will stop selling them by next fall season in USA. The Honda 200cc engine is quieter than my 170 cc Toro Super-recycler from 2008. Way quieter, which is important when you listen to music while mowing.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jason Jay, they definitely have some great features

[@WisconsinEric]

My single blade 1991 2-cycle Toro cast aluminum Recycler mulches far better than my Double Blade Honda HRX 217, and the Toro leaves far fewer clumps with a better finished cut. My Honda is quieter as you said but it also runs a couple hundred rpm slower than my Toro. My neighbors HRX is turned up well above factory rpm and it is easily as loud as my Toro. I have not used a newer Toro so I do not know how they compare.

[@georgepowell7218]

@@WisconsinEric Honda's last longer.

[@WisconsinEric]

@@georgepowell7218 Funny, my 13yr old HRX 217 transmission is currently in need of replacement. Engine runs great though. My 32yr old Toro's transmission works great, and the engine runs like new. If you are talking the Honda HR 214's of the 1980's and the Honda HR 215 of the 1990's I would say they are likely just as good as the 1980's and '90's Toro's, possibly better. The current consumer Honda's and Toro's are nowhere near the quality of their 30+yr old consumer mowers. Both manufactures use Transmissions and Engines that are of far lower quality than their old models. I don't blame Honda or Toro for that as they are building what today's consumers demand, less expensive mowers. Both Honda and Toro currently sell Commerical Mowers that are built as well as their old consumer mowers, but the Honda HRC 216 runs $1,400+ and the Toro 22296 runs $2,000+. That Toro 22296 uses the same engine as the Honda HRC 216, a Honda GXV 160. In my opinion that is the best engine on the market today. The old consumer HR 214 and HR 215 Hondas I mentioned used Commercial grade GXV engines with cast iron cylinder liner just like their current Commercial HRC 216, although a smaller displacement. My Suzuki engine on my Toro also is a Commerical grade engine with a cast iron cylinder liner. Honda's HRX does not have that cast iron cylinder liner. The piston rings ride on aluminum. Still a good engine, but it will wear out much faster than a Commercial grade engine. For the record, I am a HUGE Honda fan. I have been driving them for 26+ years, and 23yrs ago my Accord saved my life when rear ended by an elderly Woman who fell asleep behind the wheel and hit me. I really want to love my HRX, but I'm not really feeling it.

[@georgepowell7218]

@@WisconsinEric My observation is that Honda's are better; My Honda HRR216 K9VKA that I bought over 5 years ago has not had any problems but I do take care of it. Professional lawn care guys use Honda's. Home depot sales tillers but not Honda's, but their rental fleet of tillers are mostly Honda's. I can go on and on about how Honda builds to a higher quality and other stuff is designed to fail stuff that was designed to create cash flow for the manufacturer through part's sales. My observation of Toro is that the back wheel drive assembly is designed to fail plastic instead of metal. My dealer says Honda's are better than Toro. I will not buy a Toro. As you can see I am a Honda guy. My lawn mower is a Honda, my tiller is a Honda, most all the motor cycle's that I have owned have been Honda's. The last Honda motorcycle I owned sold for what I paid for it and when I bought the motorcycle it was in much better shape. The motorcycle has been going up in value. So for me it is Honda all the way.

[@ToyotatechDK]

I’m a Briggs fan and I’ve never been really hyped about the Honda engines. And especially the Honda mower decks of metal (also lawn tractor decks). They rust faster than average decks. One thing I’d say about the GCV engine is the use of a wet toothed belt. It works like a charm.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very true, I wasn't sure at first, but I've never found one that had any issue with the belt

[@WJCTechyman]

The decks in my experience rust as much as any other deck. If you buy a Honda HRX with NeXite deck there's no rusting. The whole machine's quieter too. If you take care of steel decks they will last forever. In my opinion, Briggs engines are temperamental high maintenance nuisances that really shows how Honda, Kohler Command, Kawasaki, Tecumseh (Yes, Tecumseh) the clones of Honda and others are actually better running. I've had coil, starter, carburetor, oil leaking and other issues with all but one Briggs engine while even my Honda GXV120 mounted on my HR214SX lawn mower smokes at startup but the oil doesn't just mysteriously disappear. The HR214 machines all have that weird little signature about them when they smoke a bit at startup. I even watched a German HR214 smoke at startup but still started first pull.

[@ChinookBear]

We have Honda GX390's on mobile air compressors at my job. They are the epitome of rode hard and put away wet. Rarely get fresh oil, just a top off, and run WOT for hours on end every day for several years. And start, as loyal as the sun moving over our heads every day, with a flick of the key. I'm impressed by their durability.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for vouching for them Chinook Bear.

[@CTMMalibuBoy]

I got my self 1992 Honda HRM 215 for 60$ from one of my mowing clients great condition expect the small crack in the plastic deck and now have it torn down for cleaning can’t wait to use it my business since it has Quadra cut and has real nice cut

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Very nice mower, good luck to you

[@metoon3092]

My buddy that buys and sells mowers just brought me a HRX217, still a shine to her; Engine is fine, self propelled weak. I checked all the lever movements/ cables/ wheels. Pulled the transmission cover. Very heavy metallic mix with the gear oil. Not to worry, I told him I could grab a new *Honda* transmission and install it. Amazing he decided against the repair. He said $449 for the part was _crazy_ . So engine was pulled and saved. Deck was placed with the others ready for the scrap yard.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

from what you're saying then, they had the hydrostatic transmission then?

[@metoon3092]

@@HomeGaragechannel Yes sir.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

those are very expensive to fix when they fail.

[@cm5838]

I’m on team Honda on this one, I am a small engine mechanic so I see a lot of mowers. This is my opinion. I no longer work on Briggs push mower engines, they are not worth the pot metal they are made of. I prefer Chinese mower engines by a large margin. The most common problem I see with b&s mowers are head problems, cam problems, cylinders worn out of spec within a season, carburetors plugging up all the time. Also the domestic mowers tend to use horrible cables, chincy handles. Now when it comes to Honda or even Chinese clones of Honda’s the number one issue is they left gas in the carb over winter, that problem happens to Briggs as well. That is it. Replaced worn blades on all brands, services on all. The Honda engine is undeniably built better as is the whole mower chassis. I currently run a Chinese mower because I hit my water meter with my Honda, an accident that kills all brands but it does still run but shakes horribly due to bent crank. But for some it is easier to spend a couple hundred every few years rather than double for a mower that can last decades

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Charles Mikesell, for that information, I appreciate it.

[@desertratedc9596]

I got two mowers my self, an old 80s comercial Honda with no self propel that is the backup because it reliable but my go to mower is a Snapper 21" self propelled with the briggs 175cc OHV engine. Had that mower the last 7 years or so and it always starts first pull. I do take care of it by running out of gas at the end of the season, yearly oil change and washed down after use including using the hose adapter to clean the underside and a deep clean before being put up at the end of the season. The honda doesnt get used often mostly due to it not having a self propel but i have used it when i have loaned the snapper to a family member because i do value it more then the snapper along with the fact i know the Honda can be a bully to people who dont know how to operate it properly.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice choice in mowers!, thank you Desert Rat EDC for sharing that.

[@johnhyde5841]

If I had a free HRX 217, I would take it in an instant. I just worked on my neighbors 2 yr. old 217 that was surging and Honda made a great change to the carb system. Instead of the long bolts holding the carbs on, this one had studs that the carb slid off of, making it really easy to service. I have 2 older Hondas that I picked from garage sales, both had been abused and had been sitting outside for years and with a few new parts and a little work, both run and cut great!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, the 217 is a very good mower, I'd definitely take one too. Thank you John Hyde

[@anthonytriolo3643]

😊Before Honda it was a Snapper the bag was a dog.I do not buy any more lawnmower .The last one i found is a Honda cadillac made of aluminum and weighs a ton ,took the gas out of the carb it started.I do not take care of it and starts all the time on first pull.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow nice!

[@robertbaysinger1309]

I always pick up Hondas to resell when I can find them. I'm always amazed how someone can spend that much money on a new push mower and never do an oil change or air filter change.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right, amazing.

[@cooperhickman9650]

I have a Honda gcv 160. Lasted 8 years without changing the oil and it still runs. Love that Honda

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Cooper Hickman.

[@marshallborder9089]

I've worked on them all , have a twenty three old Honda and it has the old manual chock . It runs really smooth , now I like the Briggs too . To each there own ......

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Marshall Border

[@oliverdavidpatrick]

Hi , we have a Honda HR17 Mower from the very early 1980s.. it still runs great, never had any carb issue or other issue. Only did yearly oil changes and cleaned the air filter - that's it. It still runs and it is now over 40 years old. Sometimes I use the fuel shutoff valve sometimes I don't and this baby is a one pull starter with no priming and old fuel after winter. That said we also had Honda cars and never any major issues. Honda is the worlds largest producer of engines, they know what they know what they are doing and they are reliable as hell. The next thing is of course psychological: I don't know how good or bad the new Honda mowers are, but: if you pay 500 Dollars for something you want it to work and you will defend your purchase, which often ends up in a good review now matter what. Like your content btw!! The Honda we have in Germany at my Mum's place, I live in Ireland and have an old Briggs and Stratton branded Harry which I service well and it seems to last too.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

they are certainly something else.

[@tinkerscorner54]

I was skeptical about Honda mowers/equipment at first, with the high prices and the foreign engine. Man has my tune changed. I've never used a new one but, no other brand of mower, generator, pressure washer or other outdoor equipment that I've ever owned or repaired has had the ability to start with the flick of the wrist. If you have to "Pull" the rope, you are either doing it wrong or you need to check the carb/choke. My 82-year-old mother can start one easily.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

agreed, even though I pull the rope with the strength of a child it still starts

[@AbouttheLawn]

I run a 7 year old yard machine in my business and I'm also a certified small engine tech so it's always fun for me to do maintenance. She runs first pull and hard. Also caved in yesterday and bought an echo dlm2100sp and eh I like my old school

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice choice, thank you Mr_PickleS

[@allegory7638]

Thanks to that fuel shut-off valve I run my Honda's carb dry as I finish the yard so it never has to sit with fuel in the carb. Starting its fourth year, always starts right up....when I remember to open the valve, LOL.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes more engines need to have one

[@TargaWheels]

Maybe a good comparison is a Honda mower is like a modern M16, and the others are like an AK47. An M16 has tighter tolerances, is more accurate. An AK47 is "loose" and less accurate. But throw sand in an AK47 and it'll still work. Throw sand in an M16, it'll stop running.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice

[@sticustom]

I have a Victa mower with a Honda engine. It’s the second one I’ve owned. The first was a hand me down from my father in law. When he owned it it’s main duty was to mow a half acre yard. I had it for years before it decided to not start. It has seen a lot of work. I’d dare say if I spent the time in investigating the no start issue I’d say it would still be going. I bought the Victa with a Honda motor and yes it was dearer than others but way cheaper than a Honda branded mower. I honestly wouldn’t buy anything else. I also have a Honda Weed Wacker, or as we call them whipper snippers, and yesterday I changed the priming bulb and all the fuel lines as they perished and were leaking. When I bought it was way more expensive than other but it has lasted at least 10 years and still going strong. In reality it has cost me $49.50 per year and that factors in spare parts and one service. Not a bad investment.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice! I hope to show off my honda trimmer soon.

[@richardboggs7777]

I have a Honda mower and I love it I was given a Troy bilt with a Honda engine it runs fine but wheels are not the best

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I agree, the rest of the mower isn't of the same quality

[@steamboatmcg2197]

Other than the crappy pull cord assemblies, these light duty Honda engines are incredible. The carburetors on these are the only ones that I don't worry about leaving gas (ethanol free of course) in for a year at a time. When I find a garbage pile, curbside mower and it has one of these engines, I get a hit of adrenaline and endorphins that some people would pay good money for...Side note: I know this is probably a conspiracy theory that I made up but I've always felt like Honda cherry picks the best ones to put on the Honda branded decks. In reality, they are probably just more well cared for because they are expensive.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

not sure about it, but it makes for a good conspiracy theory though!

[@rogermurph101]

It being a Honda carb has nothing to do with leaving fuel in it. It’s the fact you’re using ethanol free gas. Before the days of ethanol, I left fuel in all my equipment over the winter with zero issues. Now, I put stabilizer in all my fuel and I leave it in the tanks over winter. My mowers all have fuel shut offs and I close them and run all the gas out of the carb before storing for winter, and no issues come spring time.

[@warpig372]

I maintain my lawnmower quite often and usually hold on to one for a long time (Average 18 years). But after working on them for such a long time i usually only purchase Honda and/or Toro. I'm familiar with the parts and can repair one quite easily now.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

well said, I would go with them too, because let's face it, we really don't want to keep doing this work until the end.

[@paule.maurice1521]

Nice job with the ' Honda sandwich ' Air filter installation proves your skilled

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate it that, and I might have to steal that term! very fitting

[@dan7102]

Get two M6x120mm threaded rods (metric) and screw them into the block while installing the gaskets, carb, and box. Holds everything in place. Then unscrew one at a time and replace with the bolt while holding in place. Little trick that works well with the older ones. I think Honda finally switched it to fixed studs with nuts at the end.

[@mikemechanic8636]

I believe Honda has announced that they are going out of the lawnmower manufacturing business this year. I wonder why??

[@HomeGaragechannel]

money, related to emissions, but other plants in the world will still be working.

[@ThreeWheelFlyer]

The biggest issue I have had with hondas is the pull starters. The springs get weak, or in some cases, I have had them rip off the mower. Great power though, and the self propelled systems are great. I have a 1995 Honda Harmony 216 RS. Speaking of issues, ever run into one with a sticking governor? I have a GCV160 equipped yard-man, and the governor clicks, the mower will either go full tilt, or off.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

A good cleaning and lubricating might help out with the pull starter.

[@mattwickert736]

I like the Honda engines. I had a 160 on my previous Husqvarna mower, and it seemed much quieter than the new Briggs OHV of the same size on my Toro. They have their quirks from a DIY standpoint, but I have rarely ever had to scrap a Honda engine unless it had a bent crank. I know that as a kid, I recall going through mowers every couple years with the Zoysia grass we had (I do not know how well they were maintained), and the last one we had was a Honda and I recall it lasting several years before it was sold. I think a lot of people equate the Honda name with reliability or perceived reliability. I know that when I fix and sell them, I ask a premium and usually don't have much issue getting it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for vouching for them Matt Wickert!

[@Yeoblade]

24th Anniversary of my 3.5 Classic Briggs + Stratton mower this spring. Running repairs include, many diaphragms, bulb, 3 x filters and plugs, oil change most 🤔🤔years and blade sharpen, had to fibreglass repair the deck 4 yrs back and reinforce the handle/deck fixings. Three houses it's followed me too, think it'll see me out!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow that's pretty amazing. They're going to have it next to you at the wake!

[@Yeoblade]

@@HomeGaragechannel Ha ha,that might be a first!

[@lordjacobius6289]

Bought a honda mower last year that is similar to this one. worked well for my yard. im hoping that once i do my startup checks everything should run well, but we will see.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, good luck to you on the start up!

[@dorianmorrell2725]

Up until a couple years ago, I'd had maybe 8 mowers in my life - all used. The last was a Honda. The first 7 mowers lasted maybe 3 years each. The used Honda lasted 21, and it died from a stray BB that made it right into the intake while I was using it. Yeah, I bought a new Honda. She gets new oil every Spring, E0 gas all Summer, and a drained carb every Autumn. She also gets a home in my workshop, not outside. I figure she'll outlive me. I would advise to change the oil after the initial 10-15 minutes of runtime on a new mower (any engine, really). Her first change was pretty sparkly.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Dorian Morrell for the information, they are definitely worth the effort.

[@dorianmorrell2725]

@@HomeGaragechannel Very welcome. I enjoy your channels (two that I know of) and want to do what I can to help this endeavor succeed. While i don't always agree with some of your opinions, you don't push them as fact; and the statements you do claim as facts are, indeed, facts. Well done, sir! (Just don't put me out of business!)

[@HomeGaragechannel]

hey I really appreciate your frankness, it's very refreshing! Thanks again.

[@campbellpaul]

I would never call them "bad" engines but I don't like them (or the mowers) for many reasons. I don't like the permanent carb seat, or removing the carburetor, I don't want to sharpen and balance two blades, I don't like the handle positions and I don't like working on the blade clutch underneath. The cables can also be squirly and difficult to replace/repair. At the same time, I understand why some people are committed to them, as they are a very solid design if maintained properly.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Paul Campbell

[@joen4088]

I have a huquervana self propelled with a Kohler engine that has been bullet proof. I have a typical 0.25acre lot. Its 11 yrs old and i've never changed the oil, only top it off. People are obsessed with changing oil. If you use synthetics its unwarranted. It's also stored 5-6mo over the winter and starts right up every spring. I clean the air filter once a season and maybe replace every 2-3yrs and that's it. Other than changing out the drive engagagment cable, it has required zero repair.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow nice!

[@edrodrigues5623]

I'd try one for a season and I'll take care of the gas. I'd never pay that sort of price for any mower. I'll just find one for a cheap price and keep it in good shape like my Craftsman I found on the curb. Preventive Maintenance, It's not hard and is just a little time and worth it in the long run.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Ed Rodrigues

[@lewiemcneely9143]

Sure, I'd try i'd try it and 5 gallons of gas is 5 gallons. I've only used Honda mowers with single speed and they did fine for what they were BUT the thing that turned me on to Snappers is that they'd pick up pine needles and bag them. That was YEARS ago and all probably do it now but not then and sure not commercially. I did all the mower work and was with the crew when they got used and where. I had one yard I did every 2 weeks that took 7 1/2 hours of steady walking so I've been there and done that. I put Honda mowers with Snap-on tools. I have pals that Snap-on is all they have and some that don't. Mowers are like tools in that they're judged by the end result. And the 85 model 4-horse Snapper with the flathead Briggs started on the 3rd pull after sitting all fall and winter as did the Vanguard opposed and the 301 Kohler. The other Snapper with the Kawasaki has a fuel shu toff but the rest don't except the Kohler. Doesn't really matter because they all start and run. And I change oil when it's needed and probably oftener than once a season. Briggs recommends every 20 hours on flatheads. I got the book! And a Snapper on the old mowers can be fine tuned to the speed you want. Try that with a gearbox. Thanks and BLESSINGS!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice, I guess the snapper you're talking about is the high vac?

[@lewiemcneely9143]

@@HomeGaragechannel I used regular Snapper blades and the hi-vac kit was separate. Just bolt it to the blade and off you mow.

[@electroluxlad]

Honda a legendary Company i’ve had Briggs & Stratton fail after three months of operation but I’ve also had some that have made it through many many years Hondas are in enjoyment you’re getting a quality piece of equipment I have yet to have a single problem with mine and I use it

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, I really like mine too, thank you Electrolux lad.

[@TechCrazy]

They are like the Lexus of lawn mowers. The only sticky issue is the thermowax for auto choke.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I have to agree with you

[@rbarr775]

There's another factor -- the age and health of the user. I initially bought the Honda because of its hydrostatic trans; I had cardiac issues that limited the speed I can walk. It was that or pay to have the mowing done, a far more costly option. Expensive? Yep. Cost per year? Probably comparable or better than anything in its class, because I expect to get 20 years out of it. Agree on the carb, especially that idle circuit. Overall, I wish I had started using Honda equipment decades ago.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you rbarr775 for vouching for them

[@Turningwrenches85]

I don't mind Honda mower just some of the carb install , eventually I need to make the bolts so when I come across one to make reinstall a carb on them .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes the carb and stuff is the most frustrating part but you get used to it.

[@curiosity2314]

Honda makes a good engine and I always turn off the fuel while the engine is running until it runs out of fuel. As I have mentioned before I also use Berryman's B-12 in the gas with a stabilizer. As for the mower itself I would rather have a Honda engine on a Craftsman mower but that sadly is no longer an option.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I feel the exact same way. thank you for your time

[@brianandrews7099]

I have never had much success with products that other’s love; and Honda is a good example of that. Never had a Honda mower but my aunt had one back in the 1990s and it was a lemon right out of the box and the dealer wouldn’t replace it, couldn’t fix it, and refused to make good on it. I have owned a couple of used Honda cars. Both were cosmetically well care for but (as it turned out) mechanical neglected and gave me problems. I’ve had better success owning and maintaining domestic cars and mowers, so I think I will just stick with them.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

best advice ever, stick with what works for you.

[@RussellBooth1977]

The old Briggs and Stratton L headed powered lawnmowers tended to take a beating compared to the Hondas for example because I've had to Clean the carby out on a Honda lawnmower,not a Briggs one & my dads 20 year old Honda GSV190 powered lawnmower needs a rebuild now, it's just a matter of getting the time to do it because I have all of the parts to do the job. It's not a matter of slapping an aftermarket GXV160 carburettor on the 186 cc engine either because they're different meaning that the GSV190 carburettor is only available as a genuine items, they must flow more fuel or something !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Russell Booth, and thanks for the information

[@rickthelian2215]

You know when it’s time to change oil, spark plug air filter at 25 hours for the Honda. Briggs oil change is 50 hours via their manuals but suggest to change sooner.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes sooner is better, thank you Rick Thelian!

[@LJ-ow2ph]

One of the best features I like about honda mowers is the blade clutch

[@HomeGaragechannel]

true, not all of them have them though but it is a cool feature

[@bubba1327]

You get what you pay for.Yes Hondas are expensive, but they always start, run like a bear, and the cut quality is excellent. I have a Honda mower, and a snowblower, and wouldn’t trade them for anything else. They are just that good. It’s like comparing a Milwaukee power tool to a black and decker.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jason Last

[@1903bretep]

I use "other manufacturers" equipment for my lawn care so have no experience with Honda in that regard, however I do run Honda cars but have owned many different brands over a long lifetime. I have found that whilst you may pay more for the Honda initially their excellent reliability and consequentially lower repair costs more than compensates for this in the long run providing you keep the vehicle for a while. Can this idea be extended to lawnmowers, I don't know ?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for your honest, I appreciate that a lot.

[@farmbossmikey1350]

I used my crasftman and yard machines pushed mowers

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nothing wrong with them

[@bobgallerie3694]

Hondas are the hardest to work on. My briggs MTD cuts as well.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

agreed

[@MixingGBP]

My Honda mower experience: I purchased a brand new 2023 HRX217. I used it 2 times so far his year for a total of 2 hours and 20 minutes. Upon trying to start upon my 3rd mow, neither the electric start nor the recoil would start it. Tried to return it, they would not take it back. Sent to warranty repair shop, they are on repair attempt number 4. They are giving up and are asking Honda what to do. My question is: why the heck did I move away from Toro? My 2015 Toro just keeps on running and running. Always starts on the first pull! Honda? Never again!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow I think you got a lemon

[@MixingGBP]

@@HomeGaragechannel yeah I agree. And it was my first experience with the brand, so that was a real dagger for me.

[@stacibams653]

Do you have a video on the speed shifter being stuck in gear? (3rd gear to be exact and I can't run that fast anymore!!) I love trying to fix stuff on my own. I have the exact mower shown in this video. I subscribed to your channel, can't wait to watch more of your videos :)

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sure try this one out kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioqoeJ6QlqiZi9k

[@ramadinsookhoo6141]

Hey bro, what's up? I would definitely try using any piece of equipment recommended by someone but don't be surprised if my opinion isn't what they expect it to be😅😅

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nothing wrong with that at all! Thank you Ramadin Sookhoo!

[@JohnDeere165HydroOfficial]

I love a good Honda, but a Kawasaki is even better. They are less expensive most the time and just as reliable. I know you don't find them on push mowers offen but when you do you know they will work very well even being old. (Love you videos by the way)

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Pro Bikes, I appreciate this comment!

[@andrewgee241]

In my opinion buying a Honda because of reliability or durability doesn't make sense unless you are a professional landscaper and use it daily. I doubt a homeowner with a typical sized lawn is ever going to use the mower enough to wear out even a cheap Walmart mower. Watching your videos it is clear the overwhelming cause of a malfunction with small engines is the carburetor. If you leave gasoline in it for a long time a Honda carburetor will clog up just like a cheap mower's carburetor.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I agree, It's like me saying not to buy a $1000 Stihl saw unless you are a lumberjack. thank you Andrew Gee.

[@mwand89]

I understand the reason from your title of this video. Honda lawn mowers are very difficult for people to maintain because they are too complex and their accessories are expensive since Honda can be an automotive brand.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

agreed

[@williamsnow1531]

A oil change is the cheapest maintenance you can do to any motor. I have not had any lucky with the Honda mower. East start! Huh! Mine was a pain in the butt to start. I wouldn’t try it out since I’ve owned one. Honda mowers is a very heavy mower.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you're right, it must be all that engine.

[@davidwelday3276]

There are no cheap mowers anymore though. The days of $98 Walmart mowers are gone.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes it's a real shame.

[@themowerman]

Thanks for the video mate ..

[@HomeGaragechannel]

No problem 👍

[@GrowingLittleCountryhomestead]

Almost at 70k subscribers my friend. Well deserved achievement. I’m glad I came across your channel.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you, and I always appreciate your time. I've enjoyed watching your content as well.

[@laurentco]

Not only would I accept, I actually did exactly that... Actually, it was a birthday/father's Day gift. I'd been drooling after them for a while.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you larentco

[@WalterKnox]

I just couldn't see paying %500 for a lawnmower. I can buy a car for that. I get all of my lawn equipment from the curbside discount store though, so I guess I am spoiled. Either way, I have nothing against Honda mowers, but I certainly wouldn't go out of my way to buy one. I had one a while back, and it was pretty smooth and worked well, but the recoil was junk, the plastic where the bolts held it on broke, and then broke again on the replacement. I ended up giving it away, so I am not sure if it is still in use. I have nothing against them, they are nice, but I certainly wouldn't go out of my way to buy one, or recommend them to anyone looking for a good mower. If I were to buy a mower, I would either get something with the old style classic Flathead Briggs engine (or a Quantum), or one of the old two stroke machines, like your Toro or an old lawn boy. I currently use a 90s model Snapper with a Briggs Quantum engine, and I normally don't keep mowers long, but I have been using it for two years and I really like it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right, that's an insane amount of money for a mower!

[@charlesduboise5198]

Before Honda started selling mowers most all small engines were mediocre at best with the exception of lawn boy when Honda came along it forced all the rest to step up their game ,but even with them stepping up their game the Honda is still the best product

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Charles Duboise, they definitely helped to change to the industry

[@Jerkysan]

I'll say this.. at least on things like pressure washers I always used to look for honda engines just because if your going to pay so much for a triplex pump and such what is another $100 for the honda gx390. Sometimes I do feel the name really does carry though I hate to admit it. My stihl kombi KM130R has been going strong for over 10 years now and all that I've done to it is this winter went through the carb and put a new diaphram in it. All the people around me use honda mowers and swear by them including a guy who does small engines down the street. By the way he said the same thing you did except slightly more agressive of "change the oil"... "NO ONE CHANGES THE OIL THEN THEY BITCH AT ME THEIR ENGINE IS DEAD" lol.. This was when I was talking to him and a guy had just tried to drop off a mower that put the rod right through the block and after they left(cause no way he was fixing it) that is what he said. He also said "I"ve fixed tons of mowers over my life and it's rare it's not something tied to oil on the engine when you look at the bearings and crank and see all the scarring.". He is an older guy(about 75-80) but he's always fun to talk to..

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I like your statement, it's makes a lot of sense

[@Patrick4959]

for me yep probably a good Test Driving a Honda Mower and they are a good engine plus Made in Japan 🗾 and yep all the good quality stuff comes there too including Shindaiwa Echo and Tanaka too etc.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you go that right, thank you Patrick Stapleton!

[@Patrick4959]

@@HomeGaragechannel my pleasure mate.

[@brianking1138]

I have never been a Honda mower guy but to be fair I have never had a nice one. I have a Honda car and motorcycle. I am sure if I got a new one and maintained it I would love it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I feel the same, Never had a new one, and at the one I have is beat up pretty badly but it works and I appreciate the work it does, despite it's issues. Thank Brian King for the comment!

[@jesterr7133]

I am working on a GCV160 with this exact setup. The choke doesn't close all the way, and I cannot figure out what is causing it. I have surprisingly had a hard time finding a video where someone is working a mower with this setup.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I don't remember the video but I had the same problem and it was just a cleaning and lubricating issue

[@rogermurph101]

I put hour meters on my push mowers and change oil according to that. No having to remember if I changed it or not last summer.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice I like that idea

[@hosocat1410]

Great overview. I like the honda engines, but not their mowers. Drive system on self propelled ones is ridiculous. I have push mowers with honda engines.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks but not all are ridiculous. they have some simple ones too. They have some metal trans with one speed, which I think Is best, but they also have multiple or variable speeds, which can be a bit tricky. The worst one to work on is the ones with they hydrostatic trans.

[@mauricioserna4934]

Not only would I use it, I would buy it!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I hear that

[@bobgallerie3694]

air filter on the honda is the same as a briggs for the 190cc at 1/4 of the price.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

correct

[@jimjam742]

definitely more of a dead-simple flathead Briggs guy myself, but i can certainly see the appeal of OHC Honda mowers

[@HomeGaragechannel]

they're a bit more complicated but they do well, for the extra complication

[@billharris6886]

I agree, I like simple, the flathead engine seems the most all-around practical choice for a lawn mower. Honda obviously doesn't understand the lawn mower environment, there is absolutely no merit to using an overhead cam engine on a lawn mower. The maximum engine speeds for mowers is 3,600 rpm, which the flathead works fine for. Overhead cam engines are made specifically for high engine speeds (8,000 rpm for instance). Using an overhead cam engine for a mower, greatly increases the engine price, complicates the oiling system, and makes removing the cylinder head a nightmare. I know flatheads are on their way out because the combustion chamber is not as efficient but, if that is what the industry wants, overhead valve is the correct answer, which is much more practical.

[@richardmorse5307]

I’d jump on the offer of a new Honda lawn mower. I have to ‘fess up. I bought a Troy Bilt mower push model with a Honda GCV160 engine. It ran superb for the first season and the second. Here’s the mistake I made. I switched to ethanol free gas (94 Octane) and left gas in the tank when putting it into storage and kept the old gas in the gas can. The following year I had an illness and was not able to use it. While it was in storage I started it every 3-4 weeks and it ran ok. I think I left it unused following season. I was able to start it this year (2024) with new ethanol free gas but it began to surge and lose power. It still starts but not like before and needs more than 1 pull. The whole thing boils down to me leaving ethanol free gas (Octane 94) gas in the engine and gas can over 2 winters. My bad because I know better. I’ll have to drain out gas from tank and discard current gas and buy new. May have to remove bowl from carburetor and check main valve and emulsion tube and try again. 🥲🥲

[@HomeGaragechannel]

tough lesson for sure. Glad to see you got better though

[@olddays2253]

Honda mowers are good but I personally don't like a few of the design elements they went with. I personally don't like how the cylinder head and block are all one piece. I also dislike that they used a rubber timing belt. But those are really the only things.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I can see why, they can be quite complicated

[@tracythompson1692]

Should you change oil every year even if oil is clean?

[@paule.maurice1521]

YES, dirt sinks to bottom Oil looks clean , dump it out, and see the dirt .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

fortunately Oil is still somewhat cheap, so sure why not.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct

[@phildelgiudice3448]

Abuse is the right word. Any owner who doesn’t do even the simplest PM should hire someone to maintain their yard.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you got that right

[@-AnyWho]

wait, i'm suppose to change the oil??

[@tinkerscorner54]

I have a question foy you. My wife brought home a Troy-Bilt TB-240 with a GCV160 that someone was putting out on the side of the road. The guy even put it in the back of her Expedition for her. She was so pleased just to find something for me like that. It was completely covered with oil from being seriously overfilled but other than that, it looked almost new. I got it all cleaned up, cleared the plugged-up fuel line, checked the carb and drive belt. The shaft seals seamed alright. The thing started right up on the first try. BUT, the crankshaft is bent. I tried to straighten one recently on my buddy's mower with limited success. My question is, would you spend the money on replacing the crankshaft? And if you did, would you go OEM ($70+) or aftermarket ($40 +) if you were going to sell it? Thanks in advance.

[@tinkerscorner54]

Good news, Good News. It's not the crankshaft. The blade is missing about 4 ounces of material on one side. However, I'm still interested in your answer to the above question.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I already read your other response but I'll answer it anyway, I'd buy a used part instead.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice, replace the blade or cut the same amount of the heavy end and save the money!

[@tinkerscorner54]

@@HomeGaragechannel Replaced the blade and it runs good except I can tell that the valves need adjusting. It's looking like it's going to be sweet mower. Thanks for the response.

[@bser3973]

ANY mower that's takin care of, is going to last longer. Change the oil at lest once a year. Spring or Fall

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct!

[@mracer8]

You forgot to mention Honda lawnmower use similar technology as their Honda-RedBull F1 engine. Can you say that with a Toro or John Deere?

[@martint766]

Lol they aren’t getting and money from me either. We think alike. Lol

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice!!