Home

Export thread

Bought a new Honda!

Feb 16, 2013#1

exotion

Picked it up from the home depot (yes I know no dealer) but I got a hrr216vka for $300 couldnt pass it up. I have an old honda mower with a blown engine that has a blade clutch and a throttle control on it, I was wondering how diffucult it would be to put the throttle and blade clutch on the new one.

Feb 16, 2013#2

exotion

Was fiddling with it today found out the new mower shaft is quite larger than the old one so looks like a No go on the blade clutch. The throttle control I am still thinking about is there any advantage to having a throttle control with no blade clutch? I was thinking I could keep it running the entire time I am mowing and just super low rpm while I am emptying bag. Duno yet

Feb 16, 2013#3

pugaltitude

I assume the new model will be auto choke so there is no control for the cable to fit onto.

Feb 16, 2013#4

exotion

pugaltitude said:
I assume the new model will be auto choke so there is no control for the cable to fit onto.

The old throttle control hooks up the same and controls the govenor the same. I would use the old carb to

Feb 18, 2013#5

robert@honda

exotion said:
Picked it up from the home depot (yes I know no dealer) but I got a hrr216vka for $300 couldnt pass it up. I have an old honda mower with a blown engine that has a blade clutch and a throttle control on it, I was wondering how diffucult it would be to put the throttle and blade clutch on the new one.

The VKA has a fixed-throttle and automatic choke; in theory, you could replace the those parts with a manual throttle and choke, but unless your old mower is also an HRR-series unit, it's unlikely they would fit.

Sames goes for the Roto-Stop (blade clutch). Unless it is off another HRR-series model, it won't fit. I'll guess your older Honda with a blade clutch was an HR or HRC model maybe? Totally different engine/crankshaft/etc. from the newer HRR models.

If your old mower has a GXV engine, it has a cast-iron sleeve and can be rebuilt. Parts are usually available, and lots of people would pay a fair price for a strong-running older Honda. How bad is the old engine? Are we talking big gaping hole in the engine block or just worn rings/smoking a bit?

Feb 18, 2013#6

exotion

robert@honda said:
The VKA has a fixed-throttle and automatic choke; in theory, you could replace the those parts with a manual throttle and choke, but unless your old mower is also an HRR-series unit, it's unlikely they would fit.

Sames goes for the Roto-Stop (blade clutch). Unless it is off another HRR-series model, it won't fit. I'll guess your older Honda with a blade clutch was an HR or HRC model maybe? Totally different engine/crankshaft/etc. from the newer HRR models.

If your old mower has a GXV engine, it has a cast-iron sleeve and can be rebuilt. Parts are usually available, and lots of people would pay a fair price for a strong-running older Honda. How bad is the old engine? Are we talking big gaping hole in the engine block or just worn rings/smoking a bit?

Well the guy who gave it to me bought it new bent the crankshaft 2 weeks after purchace never had it fixed ran it for 5 years untill the block cracked 3 of 4 engine bolts were doing nothing the deck around them was broke off 3 of the wheels were bent and or broken at the deck the blade clutch was disconnected the throttle was broken the deck was just shot oh ya the blade was badly bent

Feb 18, 2013#7

MowerMike

That's a great deal ! My local HD is selling the old models for $399.

Leaving a mower blade turning, even on low throttle, while you are removing the bag is dangerous IMO. Those Honda engines are so easy to restart when warm that I don't think twice about shutting it off when removing the bag or stopping to remove junk from the mowing path. And I'm a little old man, so a youngster like you should have no problem.

Feb 19, 2013#8

lawn mower fanatic

MowerMike said:
That's a great deal ! My local HD is selling the old models for $399.

Leaving a mower blade turning, even on low throttle, while you are removing the bag is dangerous IMO. Those Honda engines are so easy to restart when warm that I don't think twice about shutting it off when removing the bag or stopping to remove junk from the mowing path. And I'm a little old man, so a youngster like you should have no problem.

I agree with MowerMike.....I think that would be dangerous!

Feb 22, 2013#9

S

STAN MI

exotion said:
Picked it up from the home depot (yes I know no dealer) but I got a hrr216vka for $300 couldnt pass it up. I have an old honda mower with a blown engine that has a blade clutch and a throttle control on it, I was wondering how diffucult it would be to put the throttle and blade clutch on the new one.

I just got the same deal, and thats why I joined this forum.

Now I can't wait for it to warm up. Just got 5" of Snow today so it's going to be a while !!!

Feb 22, 2013#10

lawn mower fanatic

STAN MI said:
I just got the same deal, and thats why I joined this forum.

Now I can't wait for it to warm up. Just got 5" of Snow today so it's going to be a while !!!

:welcome: Let us know how you like the mower.....I sure can't wait to start mowing, either! :thumbsup:

Feb 28, 2013#11

R

ricepowerm3

Was this an in store special price? Online it shows a price of $399. Thanks.

exotion said:
Picked it up from the home depot (yes I know no dealer) but I got a hrr216vka for $300 couldnt pass it up. I have an old honda mower with a blown engine that has a blade clutch and a throttle control on it, I was wondering how diffucult it would be to put the throttle and blade clutch on the new one.

Feb 28, 2013#12

exotion

ricepowerm3 said:
Was this an in store special price? Online it shows a price of $399. Thanks.

Yes that branch only

Feb 28, 2013#13

MowerMike

exotion said:
Yes that branch only

Home Depot will do that. I picked up an Echo PB-250LN blower last summer at my local store for $159, even though their website had it at $169.99 MSRP and didn't even list it as available in stores in my area. It definitely pays to visit the store and check out deals.

Feb 28, 2013#14

exotion

MowerMike said:
Home Depot will do that. I picked up an Echo PB-250LN blower last summer at my local store for $159, even though their website had it at $169.99 MSRP and didn't even list it as available in stores in my area. It definitely pays to visit the store and check out deals.

Yah I just went there for a box of screws walked by the clearance section saw it out of the corner of my eye and said to my two year old "that is happening" lol

Mar 15, 2013#15

M

MisterEdF

Seems SOME Home Depot's in NJ are getting rid of Hondas and some carry all the models. Mgr in one local store said "too expensive" and "slow selling." Anyway picked up a BRAND NEW (last one) display HRX217VKA for $399 less 10% using a LOWES coupon. It wasn't even on the floor but up in the display rack never touched. Best deal I've made on anything in many years. Haven't done my own lawn in over 20 years because I have been in such lousy (OBESE) physical shape but over the last 12 months lost 90 lbs so I decided to do it myself and save the $1400/yr lawnguy fee. My wife is betting it will last no more than this year. :laughing: At 65 she may be right!

Wish me luck!

Now I have to buy a trimmer and blower (sounds like porn

). Looked at trimmers today and they are HEAVY except for the cheap 110V models which i really don't want.

Mar 15, 2013#16

lawn mower fanatic

MisterEdF said:
Anyway picked up a BRAND NEW (last one) display HRX217VKA for $399 less 10% using a LOWES coupon.

That is a great deal, and I'm sure you will be happy with your new mower! :thumbsup:

Mar 15, 2013#17

MowerMike

MisterEdF said:
Haven't done my own lawn in over 20 years because I have been in such lousy (OBESE) physical shape but over the last 12 months lost 90 lbs so I decided to do it myself and save the $1400/yr lawnguy fee. My wife is betting it will last no more than this year. :laughing: At 65 she may be right!

Wish me luck!

Now I have to buy a trimmer and blower (sounds like porn ). Looked at trimmers today and they are HEAVY except for the cheap 110V models which i really don't want.

First, congratulations on your weight loss. I used to have a similar problem, and ten years ago I got on a bicycle and adjusted my diet so that today I'm pushing 67 and in the best health of my life. It's good to save all that money on lawn care, but even better to get the exercise.

As for a blower and trimmer, I'd suggest the Echo PB-250LN blower and SRM-225 trimmer. They start easily, are very good quality and have 5 year residential user warranties. Home Depot carries them, but if you can buy them from a full service dealer then that is preferable. They are not very heavy, but if it's still an issue you can get a backpack blower and a shoulder harness for the trimmer. Here are my Echo tools, which include a PE-225 edger.

Mar 16, 2013#18

lawn mower fanatic

MowerMike said:
First, congratulations on your weight loss. I used to have a similar problem, and ten years ago I got on a bicycle and adjusted my diet so that today I'm pushing 67 and in the best health of my life. It's good to save all that money on lawn care, but even better to get the exercise.

As for a blower and trimmer, I'd suggest the Echo PB-250LN blower and SRM-225 trimmer. They start easily, are very good quality and have 5 year residential user warranties. Home Depot carries them, but if you can buy them from a full service dealer then that is preferable. They are not very heavy, but if it's still an issue you can get a backpack blower and a shoulder harness for the trimmer. Here are my Echo tools, which include a PE-225 edger.

View attachment 13007

Yes, I agree with MowerMike. I have the SRM-225 trimmer and LOVE it, and I have the PB-255LN blower (it's not the PB-250LN, but there is little difference). There are some upgraded features on the 255 that you might not care about, or you might like. Here is a picture of most of my Echo equipment, including a PE-225 edger, along with the equipment I just talked about. :thumbsup:

Mar 16, 2013#19

wjjones

When my old weedeater push mower plays out I am going with Honda for a replacement

Mar 16, 2013#20

lawn mower fanatic

wjjones said:
When my old weedeater push mower plays out I am going with Honda for a replacement

Good choice! :thumbsup::thumbsup:

Apr 18, 2013#21

exotion

exotion said:
Picked it up from the home depot (yes I know no dealer) but I got a hrr216vka for $300 couldnt pass it up. I have an old honda mower with a blown engine that has a blade clutch and a throttle control on it, I was wondering how diffucult it would be to put the throttle and blade clutch on the new one.

Well I have put about a lot of hours on this machine and here is my review.

First off overall the machine is very well built easy to maintain. The gcv160 is very nice I have put it through a lot of abuse and it doesn't hesitate. The quadracut is very nice I can fit a lot of clippings and leaves in the bag while leaving a beautiful clean cut. The smart drive is nice and fast easy to manuever.

Here the bad first off the smart drive has developed this squeak every time I engage it I haven't really poked around to find out why yet the little flappy paddle doesn't spring back anymore feels like I need to open the paddle up and lube the spring.

Now the worst this is the reason why if and when this machine dies I will not buy another honda. The part of the mower the bag sits in gets dirty all the time now I always bag I charge more for mulching cuz I hate it. Anyways when those get dirty and I fail to spend the time every single time I dump the bag to clean those out, I start mowing again and so much dirt and grass is in there that the bag will slip out and blow debris all over the place. Let's do some math let's assume I dump my bag six times per property I spend 30ish seconds per time I dump cleaning those annoying hooks that's 3 mins a property times about 10 houses a day that's 30 mins a day 2 and a half hours a week I have been trying to figure a way to jimmy rig the hooks so that they don't get dirty or maybe a new way to hang the bag. Anyone have any suggestions

Apr 18, 2013#22

Carscw

exotion said:
Well I have put about a lot of hours on this machine and here is my review.

First off overall the machine is very well built easy to maintain. The gcv160 is very nice I have put it through a lot of abuse and it doesn't hesitate. The quadracut is very nice I can fit a lot of clippings and leaves in the bag while leaving a beautiful clean cut. The smart drive is nice and fast easy to manuever.

Here the bad first off the smart drive has developed this squeak every time I engage it I haven't really poked around to find out why yet the little flappy paddle doesn't spring back anymore feels like I need to open the paddle up and lube the spring.

Now the worst this is the reason why if and when this machine dies I will not buy another honda. The part of the mower the bag sits in gets dirty all the time now I always bag I charge more for mulching cuz I hate it. Anyways when those get dirty and I fail to spend the time every single time I dump the bag to clean those out, I start mowing again and so much dirt and grass is in there that the bag will slip out and blow debris all over the place. Let's do some math let's assume I dump my bag six times per property I spend 30ish seconds per time I dump cleaning those annoying hooks that's 3 mins a property times about 10 houses a day that's 30 mins a day 2 and a half hours a week I have been trying to figure a way to jimmy rig the hooks so that they don't get dirty or maybe a new way to hang the bag. Anyone have any suggestions

Why would you charge more to mulch that's a whole lot less work then bagging. Most charge extra to bag

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

Apr 18, 2013#23

exotion

Carscw said:
Why would you charge more to mulch that's a whole lot less work then bagging. Most charge extra to bag

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

Because like I said I am not a big fan of how it looks. About middle of summer lawns start to look a little chlorotic and lose a bitof their green. I also like to cut low....like golf course low and mulching that isn't always a good idea. And last but not least the thatch ... good place for bugs and disease

Apr 20, 2013#24

S

stygz

The lawns probably loose their color due to lack of nitrogen or iron (or both) and possibly over watering. Over watering contributes to disease also and washout of nutrients. Nitrogen can be replaced by mulching clipping or fertilizer. I too mow low and mulch as I have Bermuda grass.

Apr 24, 2013#25

cobra2k1

exotion said:
Well I have put about a lot of hours on this machine and here is my review.

First off overall the machine is very well built easy to maintain. The gcv160 is very nice I have put it through a lot of abuse and it doesn't hesitate. The quadracut is very nice I can fit a lot of clippings and leaves in the bag while leaving a beautiful clean cut. The smart drive is nice and fast easy to manuever.

Here the bad first off the smart drive has developed this squeak every time I engage it I haven't really poked around to find out why yet the little flappy paddle doesn't spring back anymore feels like I need to open the paddle up and lube the spring.

Now the worst this is the reason why if and when this machine dies I will not buy another honda. The part of the mower the bag sits in gets dirty all the time now I always bag I charge more for mulching cuz I hate it. Anyways when those get dirty and I fail to spend the time every single time I dump the bag to clean those out, I start mowing again and so much dirt and grass is in there that the bag will slip out and blow debris all over the place. Let's do some math let's assume I dump my bag six times per property I spend 30ish seconds per time I dump cleaning those annoying hooks that's 3 mins a property times about 10 houses a day that's 30 mins a day 2 and a half hours a week I have been trying to figure a way to jimmy rig the hooks so that they don't get dirty or maybe a new way to hang the bag. Anyone have any suggestions

I take it this is the Honda you were talkin bout in that other thread? :wink: Man I hate to hear that...I was looking at one of these myself the other day. From what u describing when mulching I bet that IS a mess. I hear what you are saying now dude....have you got a pic of it/problem?

Apr 24, 2013#26

exotion

cobra2k1 said:
I take it this is the Honda you were talkin bout in that other thread? :wink: Man I hate to hear that...I was looking at one of these myself the other day. From what u describing when mulching I bet that IS a mess. I hear what you are saying now dude....have you got a pic of it/problem?

No I don't have a pic and I'm sure the mulch plug would prvent it for you but I never mulch :/

Apr 24, 2013#27

cobra2k1

exotion said:
No I don't have a pic and I'm sure the mulch plug would prvent it for you but I never mulch :/

:laughing: Just meant wtd to see exactly what u talkn bout...if it makes THAT much of a mess, I'm gonna pass on this one too..BUT gotta be a way to fix it ya know? THE HD where I am stationed right now has it for a sweet price tho.

Apr 24, 2013#28

exotion

cobra2k1 said:
:laughing: Just meant wtd to see exactly what u talkn bout...if it makes THAT much of a mess, I'm gonna pass on this one too..BUT gotta be a way to fix it ya know? THE HD where I am stationed right now has it for a sweet price tho.

The way I'm dealing with it is just cleaning the hooks every time I empty the bag its annoying as hell but I have to. The rest of the machine is beautiful

Apr 24, 2013#29

cobra2k1

exotion said:
The way I'm dealing with it is just cleaning the hooks every time I empty the bag its annoying as hell but I have to. The rest of the machine is beautiful

Oh man....that would kick my OCD into high gear dude...gonna have to maybe look into the HRX series

But then you're talking about twice the bank on one of those..bummer. Bet all the HRR series have that flaw. You're right tho, it is a sweet machine.

Apr 24, 2013#30

MowerMike

cobra2k1 said:
Oh man....that would kick my OCD into high gear dude...gonna have to maybe look into the HRX series But then you're talking about twice the bank on one of those..bummer. Bet all the HRR series have that flaw. You're right tho, it is a sweet machine.

You are military, right ? Can't you get a military discount ?

Apr 24, 2013#31

cobra2k1

MowerMike said:
You are military, right ? Can't you get a military discount ?

Why Yes I can MowerMike tho not at the good deal this HRR would be they have on clearance. Compare the price points of both HRR/HRX series and you'll see what I mean.

Apr 25, 2013#32

S

stygz

You could buy it and if it does not live up to your expectations take it back. I think you get 30 days.

Apr 25, 2013#33

cobra2k1

stygz said:
You could buy it and if it does not live up to your expectations take it back. I think you get 30 days.

Right now I'm stationed on a Marine Corps Base and was just going to have my brother take it back with him when my family visits. My home is about 400 miles away from base. I get out pretty soon and would need it for my small business so not going to use it right away. Thought I would pick it up cause it's a good deal now.

Was going by Exotion's review on this model. He seems to have alot of experience with it and knows what he's talking about. Might just go ahead and pull the trigger on the HRX, hope its bag design is better..should be for the bump in price anyway. I need to head back down there and compare them both.

Apr 25, 2013#34

exotion

cobra2k1 said:
Right now I'm stationed on a Marine Corps Base and was just going to have my brother take it back with him when my family visits. My home is about 400 miles away from base. I get out pretty soon and would need it for my small business so not going to use it right away. Thought I would pick it up cause it's a good deal now.

Was going by Exotion's review on this model. He seems to have alot of experience with it and knows what he's talking about. Might just go ahead and pull the trigger on the HRX, hope its bag design is better..should be for the bump in price anyway. I need to head back down there and compare them both.

So I took the flappy paddle apart put some white lithium greese in there now it pops up like its supposed to. Today the left rear wheel would randomly just stop in the middle of a pass I had to reverse to free the wheel then I could continue the end of that mow I took the wheel off and there was about 10 pieces of some kind of washer ;/ weird ok so got the pieces out put the wheel back on works fine in the back of my mind I'm thinking was that washer important? I've done the math assuming I do 6 hours of mowing a day with this machine 30 hours a week so this machine already has about 120 hours on it I change the oil weekly 10w 40 sharpen wheels weekly blow out air filter weekly and wash machine and bag still working hard

starts first or second pull every time (except if I accidently don't let it warm up when cold than it takes a lot of work to get it started my fault not the machines) geting over the bag thing is hard but this machine has taken some serious abuse and never complains.

Apr 26, 2013#35

S

stygz

How are you liking the Echo PAS system? I love mine. I was really surprised by the performance of the straight edger. I had a craftsman with a curved edger and hated it.

Apr 26, 2013#36

exotion

stygz said:
How are you liking the Echo PAS system? I love mine. I was really surprised by the performance of the straight edger. I had a craftsman with a curved edger and hated it.

I need to update my signature I decided to buy the pe 225 for now but I love it

Apr 30, 2013#37

exotion

exotion said:
So I took the flappy paddle apart put some white lithium greese in there now it pops up like its supposed to. Today the left rear wheel would randomly just stop in the middle of a pass I had to reverse to free the wheel then I could continue the end of that mow I took the wheel off and there was about 10 pieces of some kind of washer ;/ weird ok so got the pieces out put the wheel back on works fine in the back of my mind I'm thinking was that washer important? I've done the math assuming I do 6 hours of mowing a day with this machine 30 hours a week so this machine already has about 120 hours on it I change the oil weekly 10w 40 sharpen wheels weekly blow out air filter weekly and wash machine and bag still working hard starts first or second pull every time (except if I accidently don't let it warm up when cold than it takes a lot of work to get it started my fault not the machines) geting over the bag thing is hard but this machine has taken some serious abuse and never complains.

today I got a call from a customer I mowed last year her proline died... well she killed the starter this year (don't know how) and sent it to the shop wanted me to do the first mow the grass is super thick and super long I brought my toro personal pace 21 it does the dirty and weedy jobs. Well basically after about 30 min of my toro struggling and bogging down I got angry and grabbed the honda well mine has the 160cc engine well long story short the honda put the toro to shame it never bogged down never struggled never clogged

veryhappy even left a nice smooth clean cut this machine probably has abouut 150 hours on it now how often should I change the drive belt? And is the tranny servicable?

May 1, 2013#38

robert@honda

exotion said:
how often should I change the drive belt? And is the tranny servicable?

Honda does not specify a particular hour interval to change the belt. When you're under the deck and inspecting/changing blades, inspect the belt for any fraying, missing chunks, or other damage and replace as needed. If you notice the self-propel performance is reduced, it could be a worn/damaged belt too.

The transmission does not have any internally-servicable parts. External bits like the pulley, belt guide, cover, etc. are replaceable, but really the only thing you can service on the transmission is the oil level, and if it's not leaking or indicating any problems, no reason to even check that. When filled at the factory, the oil should last for the life of the mower. You must remove the transmission / rear axle to check the level. It only holds 2.2 ounces (65cc) and uses standard engine oil as a fluid (SAE 10W-30)

May 1, 2013#39

exotion

robert@honda said:
Honda does not specify a particular hour interval to change the belt. When you're under the deck and inspecting/changing blades, inspect the belt for any fraying, missing chunks, or other damage and replace as needed. If you notice the self-propel performance is reduced, it could be a worn/damaged belt too.

The transmission does not have any internally-servicable parts. External bits like the pulley, belt guide, cover, etc. are replaceable, but really the only thing you can service on the transmission is the oil level, and if it's not leaking or indicating any problems, no reason to even check that. When filled at the factory, the oil should last for the life of the mower. You must remove the transmission / rear axle to check the level. It only holds 2.2 ounces (65cc) and uses standard engine oil as a fluid (SAE 10W-30)

Thank you robert

printed that sheet for my shop today

May 8, 2013#40

exotion

exotion said:
Thank you robert printed that sheet for my shop today

So another week another issue ;/ the rear drive wheels are skidders now worn down fast... looking for replacement ones at amazon and they are to large. I have a set in the garage from an older hrr I scrapped they are the 8in ones the ones on my mower are significantly smaller and I do not want to adjust my mow heights as I already have them all set where I want them 3 notches in front 4 inback can someone help me find them?

May 9, 2013#41

S

stygz

You may have been looking at HRX wheels? HRX wheels are 9"

Wow you use that mower alot!

May 9, 2013#42

exotion

stygz said:
You may have been looking at HRX wheels? HRX wheels are 9"

Wow you use that mower alot!

Looked on amazon and I typed hrr216 wheels and keeps giving me honda harmony wheels I admit I have not actually measured my wheel diameter yet just been to busy.

Yes I use the machine at least 30 hours a week in every condition possible super long wet to desert weeds I'm sure I've put this thing through it all.

Also the flappy paddle doesn't spring up on its own anymore I have to manually pull it up kinda annoying on sharp turns it just wants to drive in what everdirection the mower is facing any ideas on how to fix this I took the paddle apart and lubed the inside of the mechanizm that didn't help at all :/

May 9, 2013#43

MowerMike

exotion said:
Looked on amazon and I typed hrr216 wheels and keeps giving me honda harmony wheels I admit I have not actually measured my wheel diameter yet just been to busy.

Do you have a Home Depot near you ? I found them there under Honda part no. 42710-VG3-305 for $17.48 each. You can get them cheaper online but with shipping costs they end up costing just as much.

May 9, 2013#44

exotion

MowerMike said:
Do you have a Home Depot near you ? I found them there under Honda part no. 42710-VG3-305 for $17.48 each. You can get them cheaper online but with shipping costs they end up costing just as much.

Seriously almost 20 ea they are cheap plastic wheels :/ that's stupid ill go up there and look but I will not spend 40 bucks on them.... I wonder how long I can get away with slicks

May 9, 2013#45

MowerMike

exotion said:
Seriously almost 20 ea they are cheap plastic wheels :/ that's stupid ill go up there and look but I will not spend 40 bucks on them.... I wonder how long I can get away with slicks

Thing is, they have ball bearings which makes them more expensive. I've priced rear wheels for my Husky mower, which also have ball bearings and they cost $5 more than the Honda wheels at HD. Plus, I have to to pay shipping on them as well. You bought a premium mower, so you're going to pay a premium on replacement parts as well.

May 9, 2013#46

exotion

MowerMike said:
Thing is, they have ball bearings which makes them more expensive. I've priced rear wheels for my Husky mower, which also have ball bearings and they cost $5 more than the Honda wheels at HD. Plus, I have to to pay shipping on them as well. You bought a premium mower, so you're going to pay a premium on replacement parts as well.

I guess :/ but I do need them uphill is getting diffucult. Any ideas with my flappy paddle problem?

May 9, 2013#47

MowerMike

exotion said:
Any ideas with my flappy paddle problem?

Sorry, I don't own that model so have no experience with it. Maybe Robert @ Honda will chime in with some suggestions.

May 10, 2013#48

exotion

exotion said:
I guess :/ but I do need them uphill is getting diffucult. Any ideas with my flappy paddle problem?

Well I bought the wheels installed them and they work nice. Went to inspect the front wheels they were really tight didn't spin very well took them off and OMG no bearings... I swear. Dug out some older snapper wheels same diameter but with bearings repacked the bearings put a little white lithium grease on the bolt and they spin forever now.

Fixed the flappy paddle problem and I feel really stupid... the mower comes with some rubbery handle grips well they slid up the handle and into the paddle I moved them down took maybe 3 seconds and look at that the paddle springs back all by it self. Good stuff

May 10, 2013#49

MowerMike

exotion said:
Well I bought the wheels installed them and they work nice. Went to inspect the front wheels they were really tight didn't spin very well took them off and OMG no bearings... I swear. Dug out some older snapper wheels same diameter but with bearings repacked the bearings put a little white lithium grease on the bolt and they spin forever now.

Yeah. You'd think Honda would give you ball bearing wheels on all 4 corners for the high price of their mowers, but only on the higher priced HRX mowers do you get ball bearing wheels in the front. One thing I really like about my much lower price Husky is that they give you ball bearing wheels both in front and back, and it rolls with almost no effort. :biggrin:

May 10, 2013#50

lawn mower fanatic

I know I am late on this thread, but I wanted to add my 2 cents. :2cents: Check out this thread I made a few months ago...it shows how fast the wheels wore down on my Honda HRR, just like they did on yours!

http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/front-porch/12838-look-how-much-these-tires-wore-down.html

May 10, 2013#51

MowerMike

lawn mower fanatic said:
I know I am late on this thread, but I wanted to add my 2 cents. :2cents: Check out this thread I made a few months ago...it shows how fast the wheels wore down on my Honda HRR, just like they did on yours! http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/front-porch/12838-look-how-much-these-tires-wore-down.html

I can understand the rear drive wheels wearing down, but why on earth have the fronts worn out ?

May 10, 2013#52

lawn mower fanatic

MowerMike said:
I can understand the rear drive wheels wearing down, but why on earth have the fronts worn out ?

Probably because I push my mower on the road to all the yards I mow. See the pictures I added to this thread a few months ago showing a close up of my HRR and HRX tires: http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/honda-forum/13370-honda-hrx217hya-deck-guard.html

May 10, 2013#53

MowerMike

lawn mower fanatic said:
Probably because I push my mower on the road to all the yards I mow. See the pictures I added to this thread a few months ago showing a close up of my HRR and HRX tires: http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/honda-forum/13370-honda-hrx217hya-deck-guard.html

Even so, the fronts shouldn't wear nearly as much as the rears, since they are just rolling freely and not gripping the pavement the way the rears do. Same situation with motorcycle tires. The front wears a lot less than the rear.

May 10, 2013#54

exotion

lawn mower fanatic said:
I know I am late on this thread, but I wanted to add my 2 cents. :2cents: Check out this thread I made a few months ago...it shows how fast the wheels wore down on my Honda HRR, just like they did on yours! http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/front-porch/12838-look-how-much-these-tires-wore-down.html

Yah they were only 2 months old -_-

So after I replaced the drive wheels and fixed the flappy paddle and replace the front with the snapper wheels this thing is a dream to move around. So smooth

how ever I had the left wheel lock up a while back because a washer shattered and I removed the pieces and it was good to go well the right wheel started to do it today guess I am going to take that washer out.

So there are two washers on the inside of the wheel on the bolt a flat one and a curved one well what happened is I probably tightened the wheels to much and broke the curved washer. Will the mower be fine without it?

May 10, 2013#55

exotion

MowerMike said:
Even so, the fronts shouldn't wear nearly as much as the rears, since they are just rolling freely and not gripping the pavement the way the rears do. Same situation with motorcycle tires. The front wears a lot less than the rear.

Well if he is just pushing it not engaging the drive and all four are on the ground the fronts get more grip think when you push a mower you are pushing forward on the handle puts more force on the front wheels. Then he gets to a house turns it on uses the drive and wears the rear down makes since to me

May 10, 2013#56

lawn mower fanatic

MowerMike said:
Even so, the fronts shouldn't wear nearly as much as the rears, since they are just rolling freely and not gripping the pavement the way the rears do. Same situation with motorcycle tires. The front wears a lot less than the rear.

Yeah that's true....

May 10, 2013#57

lawn mower fanatic

exotion said:
Well if he is just pushing it not engaging the drive and all four are on the ground the fronts get more grip think when you push a mower you are pushing forward on the handle puts more force on the front wheels. Then he gets to a house turns it on uses the drive and wears the rear down makes since to me

Oh yeah that does make sense!

May 25, 2013#58

exotion

So I am at 240 hours apx use and its still kicking strong.
I need to find a better set of wheels these are garbage the new ones I bought are already almost worn down I am not spending 40 dollars a month on wheels. It does need a new belt soon I see signs of freying otherwise its still treating me well. It did fantastic with wet grass

Jun 19, 2013#59

exotion

exotion said:
So I am at 240 hours apx use and its still kicking strong.
I need to find a better set of wheels these are garbage the new ones I bought are already almost worn down I am not spending 40 dollars a month on wheels. It does need a new belt soon I see signs of freying otherwise its still treating me well. It did fantastic with wet grass

360 hours and now I need help. Can't seem to find a new belt there are lots of them on amazon but none for my specific model mine is hrr2168vka or vya don't remember the smart drive one. Someone have a link to amazon belt or will any hrr belt work?

Also I need new wheels again.... ugh home depot has them but they are expensive to replace everymonth so I need a better solution or a better source?

The front wheel quarter mounts got loose a well placed washer fixed that right up but I see that becoming a problem in the future. Everything else is working and running beautifully and am still more than happy with the 160cc engine

Jun 19, 2013#60

bwdbrn1

You guys might want to try this on those wheels if they're 8".

http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/honda-forum/15907-changing-honda-tires.html

Jun 20, 2013#61

exotion

bwdbrn1 said:
You guys might want to try this on those wheels if they're 8".

http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/honda-forum/15907-changing-honda-tires.html

I have thought about that but am a little concerened that I will mess it up and waste my moneys

Jun 20, 2013#62

bwdbrn1

exotion said:
I have thought about that but am a little concerened that I will mess it up and waste my moneys

Isn't that hard to do at all, and the end results are well worth it.

Jun 21, 2013#63

robert@honda

exotion said:
360 hours and now I need help. Can't seem to find a new belt there are lots of them on amazon but none for my specific model mine is hrr2168vka or vya don't remember the smart drive one. Someone have a link to amazon belt or will any hrr belt work?

The belt for both the HRR2168VKA and VYA is the same, Honda part number 22431-VL0-P01, list price $5.01, can be purchased at any Honda dealer. Search for the part number online or use this link to find a local dealer. Many dealers who sell online offer a nice discount off list, but charge shipping, and local dealers might charge sales tax, but no shipping.

Find A Honda Dealer

Jun 21, 2013#64

exotion

robert@honda said:
The belt for both the HRR2168VKA and VYA is the same, Honda part number 22431-VL0-P01, list price $5.01, can be purchased at any Honda dealer. Search for the part number online or use this link to find a local dealer. Many dealers who sell online offer a nice discount off list, but charge shipping, and local dealers might charge sales tax, but no shipping.

Find A Honda Dealer

I went to a dealer and ordered a belt should be here in a few days. I also bought the hr215 tires and am going to do that swap they only cost me 48 dollars and the hrr wheels are about 40 at HD so if they work awesome

How do I actually change the belt? I am hoping to just be able to slide it off and slide new one on without dropping the transmission :/

Jun 24, 2013#65

robert@honda

exotion said:
How do I actually change the belt? I am hoping to just be able to slide it off and slide new one on without dropping the transmission :/

You don't have to drop the transmission, but it is a job to remove and replace the belt. The Clip Director system unfortunately adds a lot to the process. You also need a torque wrench to set the correct tightness on a few fasteners (blade bolts, pulley nut, etc.to do the job correctly

You must drain oil, fuel, remove blades, remove the rear scroll and belt cover assembly, remove the Roto-Stop assembly, return springs, cable, drive pulley, drive cable, return spring, remove input pulley flange nut, etc.

Really best if you get a shop manual to have all the details. Here's a link to get one; you need to know your full model name (look on the data sticker on the back of the mower deck):

Honda Shop Manuals -eBay

Most mower manuals are $35, and you will earn that back the first time you DIY vs. pay a dealer to do any work for you. Price includes free shipping too.

Jun 24, 2013#66

MowerMike

Wow ! Just makes me more determined than ever to never own a self-propelled mower.

Jun 24, 2013#67

exotion

robert@honda said:
You don't have to drop the transmission, but it is a job to remove and replace the belt. The Clip Director system unfortunately adds a lot to the process. You also need a torque wrench to set the correct tightness on a few fasteners (blade bolts, pulley nut, etc.to do the job correctly

You must drain oil, fuel, remove blades, remove the rear scroll and belt cover assembly, remove the Roto-Stop assembly, return springs, cable, drive pulley, drive cable, return spring, remove input pulley flange nut, etc.

Really best if you get a shop manual to have all the details. Here's a link to get one; you need to know your full model name (look on the data sticker on the back of the mower deck):

Honda Shop Manuals -eBay

Most mower manuals are $35, and you will earn that back the first time you DIY vs. pay a dealer to do any work for you. Price includes free shipping too.

I looked there is nothing over the pulley looks tuff to get the belt off but possible and I can get my hand in there on top of the pully

That shop manual is going to be on order in july I hit my overhead cap in june no more spending for me

Jul 11, 2013#68

exotion

Ok so I believe this will be my final review unless something drastic happens.

The honda hrr2168vka is a strong machine well the engine and drive is strong. The gcv160 engine I am continually impressed with and the smart drive is strong and quite fast.

Now for the bad. The wheels.. well the front wheels have no ball bearings which sucks but I replaced them with a pair of snapper wheels with bearings. The rear wheels have bearings but the tires are this weird pvc plastic garbage. Replace tires with rubber hr215 tires cheaper than replacing with oem and last longer.

The quadracut system was quite disappointing when mulching or bagging it leaves trails of clippings on the left side of the deck. Simply put inefficient when you have to mow twice to make the yard look good.
Replace with the microcut system. Says hrx only on the box however bolt pattern is the same and fits snug affects height by only 1/8" lower and is superior in every way.

The wheel mounts or quarters can't stand constant abuse and I have already shimmed the front ones twice with washers and will probably need to be replaced at the end of my season.

The belt is still working I believe its gotten a little stretched already as the the wheels can be slowed with your foot but I have one on hand to replace when it dies I am being frugal.

I believe the hrr is hondas way of saying this is what we are capable of but if you want it to last buy a hrx. I am curious as to why the microcut is "hrx only" however I am still using it and it is running strong and not a single fix has been over 20 dollars unless you buy oem drive wheels.

Jul 11, 2013#69

lawn mower fanatic

exotion said:
Ok so I believe this will be my final review unless something drastic happens.

The honda hrr2168vka is a strong machine well the engine and drive is strong. The gcv160 engine I am continually impressed with and the smart drive is strong and quite fast.

Now for the bad. The wheels.. well the front wheels have no ball bearings which sucks but I replaced them with a pair of snapper wheels with bearings. The rear wheels have bearings but the tires are this weird pvc plastic garbage. Replace tires with rubber hr215 tires cheaper than replacing with oem and last longer.

The quadracut system was quite disappointing when mulching or bagging it leaves trails of clippings on the left side of the deck. Simply put inefficient when you have to mow twice to make the yard look good.
Replace with the microcut system. Says hrx only on the box however bolt pattern is the same and fits snug affects height by only 1/8" lower and is superior in every way.

The wheel mounts or quarters can't stand constant abuse and I have already shimmed the front ones twice with washers and will probably need to be replaced at the end of my season.

The belt is still working I believe its gotten a little stretched already as the the wheels can be slowed with your foot but I have one on hand to replace when it dies I am being frugal.

I believe the hrr is hondas way of saying this is what we are capable of but if you want it to last buy a hrx. I am curious as to why the microcut is "hrx only" however I am still using it and it is running strong and not a single fix has been over 20 dollars unless you buy oem drive wheels.

Good review! I like the MicroCut Twin Blades on my HRX.....they should seriously put them on the HRR! Just curious, how many lawns/hours a week do you use your HRR?

Jul 11, 2013#70

exotion

lawn mower fanatic said:
Good review! I like the MicroCut Twin Blades on my HRX.....they should seriously put them on the HRR! Just curious, how many lawns/hours a week do you use your HRR?

About 40 houses 2 small commercial properties 3 small apt complexes (duplex and quadraplex) 1 large hotel 19000sqft 1 large apt building 1 acre 14 units

Anywhere between 30 to 40 hrs on the mower a week combination of mulching and bagging

Jul 11, 2013#71

lawn mower fanatic

exotion said:
About 40 houses 2 small commercial properties 3 small apt complexes (duplex and quadraplex) 1 large hotel 19000sqft 1 large apt building 1 acre 14 units

Anywhere between 30 to 40 hrs on the mower a week combination of mulching and bagging

WOW no wonder it got worn down! I use mine on around 20-25 lawns per week, which is around 17-20 hours. I think the wheels on the HRX are better than the ones on the HRR because mine surprisingly have a semi-good tread and it goes all around the neighborhood! There ARE no treads left on my HRR mower and I used it a lot less!

Jul 12, 2013#72

robert@honda

exotion said:
I am curious as to why the microcut is "hrx only"

Your HRR is the K8 version of that model and came stock with stacked, QuadraCut twin blades.

Last January, Honda updated the HRR to a K9 version, and besides adding the Clip Director control, all HRR models now feature offset twin MicroCut blades. Yes, it's true the HRX blades physically "fit" on an HRR, but they've not been tested or approved for use on the mower. Honda recommends only using blades specifically engineered, tested, and approved for each model.

Unofficially, I understand you can update your older K8 mower with new K9 MicroCut blades, but just be sure to get the ones for the HRR, not the HRX. They look the same, but aren't. I know this for a fact because it was discussed in great detail why we could not make one set of blades fit both groups of mowers, and it is for rigidity, strength, horsepower/torque ratings, etc. that are different enough between the HRX and HRR engines and deck designs that require a slightly different blades to be needed for each one.

Here are the part numbers and retail price for MicroCut blades (now standard on all HRR models) that may be installed on any HRR:

Blade, Rotary (lower): 72511-VL0-S00, $13.12
Blade, Rotary (upper): 72531-VH7-000, $12.98

Aug 3, 2013#73

L

lildevil_66

exotion said:
About 40 houses 2 small commercial properties 3 small apt complexes (duplex and quadraplex) 1 large hotel 19000sqft 1 large apt building 1 acre 14 units

Anywhere between 30 to 40 hrs on the mower a week combination of mulching and bagging

All that work with the equipment listed is a feat in itself. Can't imagine trying to do that much without a Z-Turn.

Aug 3, 2013#74

exotion

lildevil_66 said:
All that work with the equipment listed is a feat in itself. Can't imagine trying to do that much without a Z-Turn.

Its not as bad as it sounds only a few of my places would benefit from a ztr. And those still look better with the push mower.

Home

Export thread

Bought a new Honda!

Footer Links 1

Footer Links 2