How to Tune Up a Honda Lawn Mower | GC/GCV Engines

This video quickly shows you how simple and easy it is to tune up a Honda lawn mower with a GC/GCV engine. At the time of publication it cost less than $20.00 to complete the tune up and took about 30 mins start to finish. PARTS AND TOOLS LISTED BELOW.

Materials and Tools (Affiliate Links):

Tune Up Kit: https://amzn.to/2MpAUZ8
Honda Engine Oil: https://amzn.to/2UepU3I
Honda Air Filter: https://amzn.to/2T4Ki7e
NGK Spark Plug (BPR5ES): https://amzn.to/2WbjAvr
Spark Plug Socket Set: https://amzn.to/2FUDdlW
Torque Wrench: https://amzn.to/2Ta6qx5
Ratchet Wrench: https://amzn.to/2FS76Do
Spark Plug Gap Tool: https://amzn.to/2FVem1g
Drain Pan: https://amzn.to/2sHBnNe
Funnel: https://amzn.to/2S2Fz8D
Clean Rags: https://amzn.to/2FUpqM2
Nitrile Gloves: https://amzn.to/2T8bamL

OIL CHANGE

Before you begin servicing your lawn mower, make sure to pick up the correct parts. Honda has conveniently created a tune up kit for most gc and gcv engines that includes 12 oz of 10W-30 oil, an air filter, and a replacement spark plug.

In addition to the tune up kit you may also need a 13/16” spark plug socket, a 3/8” drive torque wrench, a 3/8” drive ratchet wrench, a spark plug gap too, rags, oil pan and funnel and disposable gloves.

Honda recommends changing the oil every six months or 50 hours of use. For me, this is usually once a year. If the engine is used under heavy load or high outdoor temperatures it’s recommended to change the oil more frequently.

For best results, drain the oil when the engine is warm. Warm oil drains quickly and completely. If necessary, let the engine run for a few minutes until it has warmed up to operating temperature.

To reduce the chance of scratching the side of the mower deck or wheels when tipping, place a piece of cardboard or drop cloth on the ground.

First, turn the fuel valve OFF. This will reduce the possibility of fuel leakage.

Wipe the oil filler area clean, and then remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.

Place a suitable container next to the mower to catch the used oil, and the tilt the mower on its right side. Use CAUTION as the oil may be hot. The used oil will drain through the filler neck. Allow the oil to drain completely, then tip the mower back up and wipe up any spills.

Fill with the recommended oil as shown on the chart for the average temperature in your area. The oil I used was 10W-30. Do not overfill. Allow a couple of minutes for the oil to settle in the engine and then measure the oil level.


AIR FILTER
Press down on the cover tabs and remove the cover. Remove the air filter from the air cleaner housing. Inspect the filter and replace if damaged. Reinstall the filter and cover making sure both tabs are fully locked in place.

SPARK PLUG
Allow the engine to cool. Disconnect the spark plug cap and remove and dirt from around the spark plug area. Remove the spark plug with a 13.16 in (21mm) socket and inspect for normal wear. NOTICE: and incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage. For good performance, the spark plug must be gapped properly. Measure the spark plug gap and correct in necessary.
Install the spark plug carefully by hand to avoid cross threading. After the spark plug seats tighten with a 13/16 in (21mm) socket and torque to 14 ft-lb. Finally, reinstall the spark plug cap.

Turn the fuel valve back to the on position. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes and check for leaks and proper operation.

I hope this tutorial was helpful in giving your Honda a tune up. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below. Also please consider hitting the like button and subscribing for more tutorials like this one.

Thanks for watching!

Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any damages that may occur due to improper operation. This video is strictly documentative and should not be used for anything other than reference. Do so at your own risk.

Music:
Cold Funk - Funkorama by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...)
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