SAVE A TON OF MONEY in repairs by NOT BUYING this NAME BRAND mower.
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 15 окт 2024
- Thanks for tuning back into Chickanic! If you found this video helpful, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and COMMENT!!
If you would like to send me a gift to my house, find my Amazon Wish List HERE!
www.amazon.com...
Buy your own Chickanic T-Shirt or Hoodie HERE!
chickanic.com/
Find some of my favorite tools in the list below!
Get a WERA tool kit like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3CEkWo5
Get your WERA 8mm nut driver HERE!
amzn.to/3I4tx4B
Find your own 2 Cycle adjusting tool kit HERE!!
amzn.to/3IMn4vB
Get a compression tester like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3KM7Ibg
Get a spark tester like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3vIHUbM
Get your own digital tachometer like mine HERE!
amzn.to/3iH5hva
Find your own digital multimeter HERE!
amzn.to/38aX2FJ
Get some 12" hemostats HERE! I LOVE THEM!!
amzn.to/3tMvlvd
Get my FAVORITE pliers HERE!
amzn.to/36P5ud3
Get an Owl Torx drill bit set HERE!
amzn.to/3urvRze
Want a Endoscope like mine? Find it HERE!
amzn.to/3Ni71Ir
Watch my "Best Trimmer Head Ever Made" video HERE!
• The BEST TRIMMER HEAD ...
Get your own Speed Feed Head HERE!!
www.amazon.com...
Looking for the BEST 2 Cycle Oil? Find it here!
www.amazon.com...
My name is Bre. I took two years of small engine repair at the local college. When I left school, I fell into a wonderful job at a local small engine shop where I worked the counter for a couple years. In 2010 my husband and I opened up our own small engine shop in central Arkansas where I am able to work alongside my family and best friends. We see over 2,000 pieces of small engine equipment every year, and answer 1,000's of small engine questions. We specialize in brands such as Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Echo and Shindaiwa, but work everyday on MANY other brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, Honda, Craftsman, Remington, Red Max, Troy Bilt, Scag, Bad Boy, Hustler, World Lawn, Poulan, Mantis, Etc.. Hopefully, my experience I share, will save you Time, Money and Frustration in the future!
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting my channel so I can continue to provide you with free content each week!
Although very informative, these videos are for entertainment purposes. Please use all possible safety precautions when repairing and operating your small engine equipment.
Check out some other great small engine repair channels and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE....
Mower Medic 1
/ themowermedic1
Micks Mowers
/ @themowerman
Steve's Small Engine Saloon
/ stevessmallenginesaloon
BaldEagle242
/ baldeagle242
donyboy73
/ donyboy73
Bruce's Shop
/ brucepender
Eliminator Performance
/ eliminatorperformance
The Lawnmower Lady
/ thelawnmowerlady
Ken's Small Engine Repair
/ @kenssmallenginerepair
Henry Murawski
/ @henrymurawskibigdogre...
Thanks for Watching! Find a link to all of my "Must Have", Favorite Tools HERE!! www.amazon.com/shop/chickanic?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfchickanic_9ERPFPBNGQ924P8NS63B
I got the impression that you were rather disapproving of people mowing the lawn when it is wet. I live in North Carolina. It rains here a lot. Sometimes every day for weeks. We don't really have a choice.
Those Honda’s are only like that on the American market, the Australian models all have a huge round blade disc that covers all that up..
an easy fix would be to order the blade disc plate and the four high lift blades and put them on the American models
I was seriously going to buy one this week. Not for me. So glad I saw this video. Life saver.
Just looked at one an hour ago. Thank you !
You may hate telling people to stay away from something but you’re very honest about it.
Never be embarrassed about warning consumers regarding reoccurring problems. You’re a reputable shop and I believe that it’s part of your job. If Honda doesn’t agree then maybe they should remedy the issue. You are in the perfect position to make these assessments just because of the shear volume you deal with……good job young lady
Also because of the sheer volume she deals with...
I 'm a guy and I'm thouroughly impressed with your knowledge, skills, and contageous work ethic! I wish there were more like you! I'm now a subscriber to your channel! We need more honesty in this business. And, Honda, making poorly engineered machines! That's so unlike them! Profit over ethics I guess!
Honda automobile motors are also having major quality issues! According to a recent class action lawsuit, drivers of certain 2018-2023 Honda vehicles may experience stalling and oil dilution. Manufacturing defects in the engines of affected vehicles can cause the car’s oil to be diluted with fuel, causing significant wear and damage to the engine.
Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower ruclips.net/user/postUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.
This is the kind of information that we as the consumer need to hear. Thank you for doing this and having the fortitude to do so.
Truth! It’s better than Consumer Reports.
While I agree, learning how to actually clean your equipment or preventative maintenance will also go a long way.
@@MrReddevil420 Right!?
Some people just don't have common sense, or are just LAZY. 🤦
Honda needs to smarten up. It looks like a shroud may be able to fit around the belt. There appears to be mounting holes under the mower. Maybe someone forgot to install one.
@@philipbreau1246 Thet are not going to, as of September they will stop making mowers!
I appreciate your honesty. People work hard for they have.
When i watched this video i was astounded. I had just 12 hours before purchased the exact Hònda mower featured. It was in my garage still in the box. Based on your report i returned the honda and purchased a Craftsman. Thank you! You savedme alot of time and $$$$🙂
Hey man how is the Craftsman for you? What model did u get? I am in search for new mower and I keep hearing Honda Honda Honda. However, this is the only model available in my area. 1 left on shelf... I'm debating but I didnt want to spend 550 on a mower....
I use the non self propelled version of this mower for my lawn business and it's never let me down! Going into my 4th year and it still runs like new.
Same here.I buy the Honda 216 self propelled residential models and they are half the price of commercial models.I have a couple that are 10 years old.keeping them clean is job one
And my 30 year old Yard Machines still runs like new. Other than maintenance, I've never had a single repair.
I ran my lawn business for 25 years!
Organic Lawn Care of Arlington Virginia
I only bought Hondas and Snappers with Kawasaki engines for my push mowers
Hardly any issues and tens of thousands of lawns cut
I wish you well in your endeavors
It’s a great way to earn a living
@@polarlab113 "Same here."??? His is not self propelled and yours is. What is the same about that?
It's heart warming to see a lady that's interested in mechanical things. I'm a retired engineer/ mechanic and if start talking about my work she tells me it's boring. I think your channel on garden machinery is very interesting .
I bought a Murry walk behind lawnmower from Walmart 15 years ago for 120$ My friends told me I’d be lucky if it lasted a summer. 15 years later after heavy use and never having an issue with it I gave it to a friend to use on his lawn. Always started on the 1st or second pull.
I'm with you on Murray. I've got one which I bought in '93 that wasn't self-propelled. In about 2005 I retired it to my off-the-grid place at 8000 ft were I mow my driveway and rough yard (in the mountains). The only thing wrong is the pull rope retracter quit retracting so I drilled a hole in the top and start it with a drill, home made adapter and an 11/16 socket. It still starts every spring.
I replaced it with a self-propelled Toro (2005)at home and that one too still runs and self propels itself perfectly. And both have the original spark plug!
If it ever quits snowing, I'm going to take the Toro in to have it adjusted.
My jaw dropped when I saw this model you were speaking of. I purchased it last year, so far no problems. I keep the underside clean so I hope I can avoid these issues you speak of.
@john smith I have that same mower and it does have a belt slipping problem and its only 4 months old and I have had Honda mowers for over 20 years. Your wrong John!
@john smith thanks for the reply John no I haven't tried that I have a yard full of trees and there's lots of little sticks in the yard
@john smith She didn't say anything about Honda mowers from years past. She specifically said the NEWEST MODEL, and showed a new one, purchased 3 months earlier that already needed repair. She then backed up her opinion by stating she had performed the exact same repair on TEN of the exact same model of Honda mower. Still say she's lying? You either need to thoroughly clean out your ears or permanently retire your pipe.
I too have the same mower been running it for my Landscaping company it’s light strong and cuts well I cut Bermuda Augustine and fescue grass haven’t had to replace the belt yet working on the second set of tires and yes I had I stick get stuck in it ! Popped it out and off I went !
I have this exact mower and have never had any of these issues or any issue with it. I’ve had it for over 5 years.
I was just about to pull the trigger on one of these. Figured I'd poke around before clicking the button despite of the good reviews. You may hate telling us about this but dang, I appreciate it. Back to research. Thank you.
I used to take customers out to see my line up of repair mowers (incoming and outgoing) and look at the age of the mowers being repaired. I also put replaced parts in a bag/box so customers knew what was replaced. It made it easier to steer them away from problems. Great videos.
A hard lesson I learnt in my youth. If one is considering the purchase of a durable good, skip the salesman and talk to the repairwoman directly.
Very wise man .....i recommend every shop take this advice .....it helps build honesty between the owner and customer leaving no question upon the need of the parts replaced .
@@armchairtin-kicker503 A related generally useful piece of advice I picked up somewhere -
Suppose you're needing to buy a tool to do some things and you want a good one that will last. Take a look at what brands the guys that use them for a living are using. They need their gear to be as reliable and repairable as possible or downtime eats into their profits.
It's also a good idea to look at what the rental guys are renting out. Same thing but possibly more so. They know they're going to have to rent their tools out to morons that don't know what they're doing. They also know they're going to rent their tools out to people that *do* know what they're doing but just don't care because it's a rental. So, as much as possible, their tools have to be able to take a beating and keep on ticking.
Of course, this isn't 100%. Just a good starting place, IMHO.
I've been using Honda mowers for years now. The early HRU215 mowers with the GXV140 motor are very durable, as is the drive shaft / gearbox system they run. These OHV push rod motors also feature cast iron sleeve & are the reason for Honda having such a good reputation for long life. That said they make these consumer grade machines that are build to a price because people purchase them. Unfortunately for a business to remain profitable they sacrifice the brand & thus not all Honda's are created equal.
As a landscaper, who uses multiple walk behind mowers, from many different manufacturers, the declining quality and declining dependability of mowers is obvious. The problem certainly is not exclusive to Honda products. Your correct that certain manufacturer's products have inherent parts quality and design flaws that appear over and over to cause failures.
Notifying the manufacturers in writing of the problems and my experience, never seems to result in the manufacturer taking responsibility or correcting the part or design flaw, even in their next generation of the same product. Many years ago, Toro changed a once dependable part, used in the deck height adjustment mechanism, from aluminum to a plastic material. The part continuously fails and I now buy them by the dozen to have stand-bys. The dealer has told me that they sell thousands of that replacement part each years to repair multiple generations of that mower. The manufacturer is obviously aware of the issues, as they are notified often by customers directly. I would assume they maintain communications with their dealers and service centers, who also identify the issues. The manufacturer is also aware that they are supplying an inordinate volume of specific parts to their dealers and repair centers on a continuous basis. The customer can only assume that the manufacturers are designing obsolescence into their machines for the purpose of selling parts and service, rather than improving design and selling a better product.
You're right planned obsolescence makes a lot of money. It seems once someone has a good reputation of putting out good products then, they start the planned obsolescence, time to make lots of money selling parts.
Many of these manufacturers have sold their ethics out to making more money.
Same with washer and dryers the declining quality. I buy a fair amount of washers and dryers every year for commercial use. I have noticed a marked decline in quality and quality control in coatings, in wirings and quality of workmanship, particularly these last 10 years.
It's really unfortunate that so many different products in our society are falling under this same fate, and there's only one reason: money. In your case, imagine all of the extra money they're making selling those replacement plastic parts. Caring about and being proud of what you make and sell has almost become a lost art.
If I ran a manufacturing company I would closely watch repair part sales. And if I'm selling a lot of one or another part, that part is bad and has to be redesigned to fix whatever is wrong with it.
@@hunkydorian That seems completely logical, but when a manufacturer realizes that the defective part has added $650,000 dollars to their profits, they take a different road.
I’ve used your suggested products and they have been okay!!
So I did buy one of those this year I have clean the bottom ones change the oil ones haven’t had any issues with it but the grass does build up on the bottom side. I will check that out every couple weeks that’s sad.
My Dad and I Owned countless numbers of Snapper Mowers over the years until they “Cheapened” the Quality and started selling them at Walmart. I went to a Toro several years ago with a Honda Engine and it was a Great Choice. 👍
Just so you understand, Snapper never cheapened out on their authentic Snapper models - which have NEVER been available at Walmart or any other big box store. What did happen was that Simplicity bought Snapper in 2002 and put the Snapper name on cheap Simplicity mowers to sell at Walmart. Thankfully Simplicity kept the REAL Snappers - with patented rear disc drive self propelled system- that enthusiasts know and love, in production and for sale only at power yard equipment dealers.
As soon as Briggs and Stratton bought Snapper back from Simplicity they killed that Walmart deal, and ever since you can only buy the real Snappers, and only at power yard equipment dealers.
@@joe6096 do or did the original Snapper mowers come with Briggs and Stratton engines?
Never mow wet grass. Let it dry, never mow first thing in the morning. My dad taught me that 50 years ago. Good video.
It only works with a mower designed to handle wet grass. I had a cub cadet zero turn commercial sum years back wet,dry,raining it didn’t matter and it didn’t plug up . I got rid of it because it was killing my back
I'm 70 yrs old,and I 've worked on small engines for over 48 yrs.
I've seen good,and I've seen terrible!LOL!
Refreshing,to see someone with the same values,..i.e., looking out for the customer,and doing things right.
I lived in Michigan,all my life,until moving to the Lonoke/Cabot area,9 yrs ago.
I still do a few units,just to keep busy.
God Bless,and good wishes,for you,and your husband !
I've had a brand new Husqvarna could never get it to start from day one. started using ether to start it. Once running it cut great was 4wd
I so appreciate your honesty. Thanks!
No one cares how old you are. You post this same comment on everyone's videos.
Lonoke / Cabot? Arkansas? Nice area if so!
John 👍 I am a couple years ahead of you and have worked 12 years in small engine rental and repair. I love Chickanic because she is honest about helping the customer, which seems to be a lost value. Now it is ‘Use until it breaks and the go buy a new one.’
Dang it! I bought that same mower from Lowe's last weekend. gotta return it.
I had a lawn care business (I'm now on your side fixing them instead of braking them) and I bought a HRN because I couldn't quite afford an HRX. It almost lasted a season. I don't recall the drive system having problems, but the wheels literally fell apart. The plastic hubs cracked and the tread actually came off and I couldn't get a simple replacement wheel! I also had issues with the governor, but that's fixable. I bought an HRX and love it. Haven't had any problems other than the coil somehow got out of adjustment.
I was shocked when you reviled the problem mower was a Honda. I’ve owned lots of Honda outdoor equipment over the years for my business and for my home use from generators, lawn mowers, snowblowers, water pumps, outboard engines, pressure washers. I always kept up on the scheduled maintenance on them and replaced worn parts when needed and they all have worked great with very few problems. That’s why I paid the extra money on Honda equipment over other brands because the Hondas worked and they worked when I really needed them to in some bad situations. I sure hope that Honda is not heading in the direction of making expensive junk like some other companies have. Thanks for making this video, it sure was an eye opener.
thats why im kinda waiting for kubotas to bring there good solid kubota walk behind mowers here to canada
@@michaelmactavish4445 Kubota! I miss the old days at a friends place in Ontario mowing the 3 acres there on a Kubota tractor. Its fun!
They aren't heading that direction. Briggs paid her to shit on Honda lol. Find my comment explaining how I am a commercial landscaper and I keep this guy around. I beat it to hell for 3 years and a piece of plastic fell off. Still sounds brand new, sucks no air, and works exactly like it should. Don't trust women claiming they are mechanics lol. You have been fleeced.
I've had Toro, Craftsman and Honda mowers. Honda is by far the best. Anyone who says otherwise is crazy. There must be an ulterior motive here.
@@Seldomheardabout
"Briggs paid her to shit on Honda lol."
I could claim the same thing about, except calling you a Honda shill. 😂
"Don't trust women claiming they are mechanics lol." Nah, I don't trust random trolls and their army of strawmen. 😂
Simple, either it is a problem or it isn't. 😊
Thanks for the heads-up girl! 😉👍
I have watched your channel grow...I found your channel by accident when researching an issue that I had. Long story short - you are very good at what you do, BUT, the best part is how you share the information. Thank you, and I wish you both well.
Thank you, you bring a brite lite to what once looked difficult.
@@gwnikmarvin2315 i paid $1,067.00 for my 12.3hp and spent $657.57 on parts and repairs wich why kubotas are best build
I've owned a Honda self propelled mower for about 8 years and it has ran flawlessly-started first pull 99% of the time. Then the issues started....the dreaded exhaust valve sticking. My local Honda dealer wanted to put a new motor on it!! I got the valve unstuck by spraying it with carb cleaner and working it in and out. It ran for a short time after until the rocker arm broke and the guide came out. I tapped the guide back in and replaced the rocker arm. I peened the area around the guide, so hopefully that will make it last a while longer. Thank you so much for your videos; they are very informative.
Love your page. Never apologize for working.
I own this mower. So the best thing to do is just NOT mow when the grass is wet?? And what about when i have to change the belt out in the future? I would love to know your recommended belt so i dont pay alot for the OEM when it's crap.
Some people just don't have the time to mow lawn at the right time and are forced to mow when it's damp out. Here in Washington state in the spring, it can be tough to find a dry window. Always buy a mower from a reputal dealer and not from a box store. A good dealer wants happy satisfied customers. Good video.
Thank you so much for your videos . I am a single senior citizen woman and I have to rely on myself for fixing things. These days you can’t find anybody to work or anybody that is honest.
@Janice Oconnor There ARE honest repair shops out there--you just have to talk to some guys to find out where they are.
As far as people with a work ethic--you're right. If I could find someone reliable to cut my grass I wouldn't be doing it, but if the job's too small no one is interested.
Best of luck! Keep lookin'....
I've used push mowers and even an old Flymo starting back in about 78. I am 55 now and have strata cut the lawn; I have never used a self- propelled mower. If I had an incline, I would have considered it. I used to love mowing and the exercise on a nice day.
I really like and respect honesty.
Wow I would have never guessed a Honda would be on the trouble list. I have a self propelled from the early 90’s that I still use today.
Honda is done with Mowers. They will also stop building their mower engines as well. They are basically DONE!!!
My dad bought a Troy Bilt lawn mower. He passed away and it was virtually new. I could not start it. I took it to a shop, they got it to start. I used it once, after that i couldn't get it to start. It's still in the garage hasn't been used since. My wife found a used Husqvarna mower and it's been working like a champ.
It is virtually impossible not to mow damp grass here in the south and at $600 for a walk behind mower Honda has a serious problem!!
Thank you for being a honest mechanic, it goes a long way these days especially at current labor cost. Thank You!!! Pensacola
@rick: $600.00, not bad. If you keep the mower forever, it’s a one time investment. I’ve had the same Honda mower since 2009. Paid a little over $400.00 for it. So far, amortized out, that’s $33.00 a year. It still functions great and I plan to keep using it. I’ve worn out the rear tires, self propelled. Cost about $60.00 to replace.
First off, you made a comment about you didn’t know if people valued your opinion. Well, I’m here to tell you that you are top notch in what you do. Otherwise, I would not have subscribed to your videos. I have used some of your knowledge I got by watching these videos and your expertise is spot on girl. So I’m one happy subscriber that not only enjoys your videos, but your knowledge and expertise as well. Thank you for making a 3 garden tractor home owners life a whole lot easier when I service my equipment. I don’t drink but if I did, I’d have to raise my glass to you and say cheers and have one on me.
A friend runs a yard service company. He tried Hondas some 10 years ago and went back to Toro. They just did not hold up under commercial use. He has Toro's that he purchased at the same time as the Hondas, and they are still in use by his company. After going through several cheap mowers in my new house in 81, In 85 I purchased a Toro. It lasted until 2013. I replaced it with another Toro.
I currently have three older Honda self propelled mowers which are still performing great.
Tell it like it is, no matter the manufacturer. Advice like this is gold to gear heads of all types. Nice work !
I have my Lawnboy Silver series walk behind self propelled for 20 years. Bought it in 2003. The best I ever had. I clean the bottom every time I mow. I change oil at beginning of season and half way thru again. I use fuel stabilizer and it takes me a hour to mow. I'll be 70 this October and a young neighbor asked me when I'm getting a rider, I said when I get old. He asked me 2 years ago.
I was going to go and purchase this exact mower tomorrow. My 517 finally bit the dust after 13 years of problem free service. Was going to buy the Honda again because the last was a pretty good mower. Glad I watched this video. Will need to buy something different, hopefully reliable.
I have been using a Toro easy store, rear wheel drive for the last five years. I have replaced the belt once and had a new transmission installed last year. I looked at the Honda, but the price was $200 over the Toro. It’s mowed several hundred yards. And I do mow wet grass, but I keep it cleaned out. And its so easy to start.
Glad to see you passing on this valuable information with you working on all these different brands you see firsthand the flaws; it's sickening how quantity over quality has been the new norm and mowers and other yard equipment have become a big investment. Keep up the great work and sure appreciate the honesty and workmanship you put into it the repairs.
I applaud your honesty and desire to help folks out. Many companies that we have known and trust have gone "CHEAP." You'd think that they would want to stay true to their reputation and keep repeat customers. Thank you!
@john smith And what makes you the expert here??????
I have a Toro Super Recycler that I bought new in 2004 and it’s still going strong. I’ve never replaced the drive belt and have never have had to adjust the "personal pace" drive system. I’ve replaced the spark plug 3 times only and 3 seasons ago I replaced the rear drive wheels. It’s been impeccable.
Got one from 2002. Great mower. Compression still strong, Briggs engine.
INFORMATION LIKE THIS VIDEO IS THE BEST WAY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
Believe me, if the sales of this model drop off by 80%, the manufacturer WILL take notice and fix the issues.
The only suggestion I would make is to end the video with a list of the most reliable alternatives that you know of.
(You could always put that list in your description too.)
If a manufacturer puts out a piece of junk, they need to make it right for EVERYONE who bought it.
And if they don't, they should lose customers and sales until the problem is fixed. I used to work as a motorcycle mechanic, and I saw Honda screw over owners on a technicality. (Their warranty only applied to original owner.)
I had several 1 year old bikes come in with almost $1000 worth of damage that Honda wouldn't fix.
I've owned many Hondas, but after seeing that, I'll never own another one.
Your opinion is helpful. It might save me from a lot of grief from trying to get parts that are for some reason not available or help me avoid a bad design that desperately needs to go away. I am just like anyone else. I want to find a good price but not have the accursed thing breaking every time I need it. If something lasts at least 10 years that is good but I always like things that last longer.
Love your honesty. My son worked as a small engine mechanic for years. I must say that while this mower has issues, it is amazing how people mow wet grass and let it get caked up like this for any mower. You must roll your eyes at how people abuse their equipment.
I worked at a golf course. Grass cut every day in the early morning. The sprinkler system ran every night even when raining. Many different types of mowers. We just loved cleaning equipment. We would get into the rough areas with push mowers similar to the types homeowners use. We set the front wheels higher than the back - made mowing thicker long grass much easier.
Morning Ms. Bree,
I have one from 2019 fall time line i bought from home depot. Less than 10 hrs on it
Stopped from rolling backwards. Wheels would slide. Found out this was a common problem. Sand or grit would get into drive system and thats it. Fixed problem by purchasing a self propelled snapper ninja.
All good now
Hey I recently picked up a Snapper commercial 21” with Kawasaki motor. It was Free and only needed a coil.
Great. Nice find.
I have had my Honda mower for a few years now, no problems. I clean after every mowing, spray the bottom with silicone, and properly store it for the winter. And you are correct, only mow when it is dry.
I wouldn't buy anything else but honda mowers. I have my own lawn care business and I use those exact models bought 2 for myself for father's day 2 years ago and I put them through hell sometimes and they just won't quit lol
"only mow when it is dry"
That's just not practical reality where I live and definitely isn't reality in a lot of the wetter parts of the country. I guess most people can only really get the mowing done on a couple of days of the week. It rains between 1 and 3 times a week here, depending on specific time of year. What are the odds that the days your schedule allow you to do it line up with good dry grass? Not too good in my experience.
In short, if I followed that advice, my yard would just be an overgrown jungle a lot of the time.
@@jontrevino2135 I just bought the same mower and it seems to be a good running mower. I was using a snapper self propelled mower from who knows how long. It's as heavy as a tank and has 6 speeds. The only reason I put it to pasture is bc it's been popping under heavy load and finally died on me the other day. I'm sure I could fix it but I figured it was just time to upgrade. I'm not sure if this is the original motor for snapper but it has a Briggs and Stratton engine. I've had the mower for over 10 years and I bought it used so I'm not sure how old it is. Hope the Honda gives me years of trouble free lawn care. I always mow dry grass. Mostly in the evening when all the dew and moisture has evaporated.
I totally agree where I live it rains a lot also, grass is almost never dry here. I mow every week during the mowing season to keep the grass from getting too tall.@@ColonelSandersLite
@@joetroutt7425 Check underside after each use for grass trapped in the v groove of the pulley (can usually tell as the belt will be raised at that point) or for grass trapped on the outer side of the belt between belt & that belt guard tang thing
Oh Greeeeaaaat! I just bought this mower about 3 years ago. Thought Honda was the way to go, now I'm bummed that I didn't hear about this sooner. I'll just have to pay close attention to these areas. I was a little concerned that the wheels on this mower are plastic and wear out so fast. I'm on my second set of wheels on only 3 years!
I had a craftsman mower for about 20 years, bought used from sears for 180, the thing died, not sure why or someone picked it up and fix it but wasn't me. My neighbor because he was moving and gave me his honda self propelled for 80, I always wash under the deck after every use it's been over 6 years of ownership, I just do seasonal maintenance an it start first time always. Always learning from your video's.. Thank you.
Thanks for the information. My 13 year Toro took a dump last week was actually going purchase this Honda mover in the next few days but I guess I’ll just go Toro again. Thanks again.
Buy it,,,,, it is a good mower. I’ve had mine two years now and works well. Just clean and maintain it and you won’t have the issues presented in this video. I think these issues were owner neglect and miss use, as well as not maintaining and cleaning.
My honda from 1986 is still running, The HR 214 , Best mower ever . Im sure Honda will address this problem .
Got the same one from 89 or 90 , I think it's the best mower ever made
Ive used Craftsman mowers with Briggs motors since the 80s. Never an issue, I get 15 years out of them..they still run fine when I give them away and buy a new one. Just like cars, its nice to have a new shiney one after a while. 😎
Same answer, BUT, I bought a "new" mower with b&s engine and it didn't last an hour before it was smoking. Yes, it had the proper oil level. These new mower are not what they used to be. Doesnt matter the brand
@@georgemurray6845 I'd like to buy the kind of mower they were selling 15 years ago. Things change. I am mowing 5 acres in Hawaii and it gets wet a lot.
Do they make them like they used to? I have a John Deere walk behind I bought new in 1992. I cut down a fairly large silver maple, threw all the smaller branches in a pile and ran back and forth across it with my mower until the pile was gone. While doing this I cracked the aluminum deck and had to have it welded. I've had to replace the wheels several times because the tread wore out and the wheels were too small. Other than that it still runs like new. And Hondas quit because grass gets in the belt? Ha!
i'm really glad to hear this about this mower. I'm just a hobbiyst, but I couldn't believe how difficult it was to perform basic maintenance on them. I just kept taking parts off while thinking I must have been doing something wrong or that I was missing some obvious other way of getting to the problem. Another problem is that the rear wheels tend to rust on to the axle and seize up. When that happens, it destroys the transmission if the owner insists on getting it to run. Taking off and replacing it with a new is another two hour nightmare, and the replacement is prohibitively expensive. No one ever opts to do it. That's why I have like three of these ophans in my shop.
I've had my Honda for over 3 years not a problem yet, crossing my fingers, its the first mower I've had that didn't break down within 2 years, in the last 15, tired of spending money up to 350.oo sometimes so I went with the Honda spent 570.00 took almost 4 months to save for but I'm pretty happy so far
Love your videos! I had a lawnmower shop from 1972 till 1990. Had tons of work, but didn't plan for the business partner getting hooked on dope, and a divorce. I had been fortunate enough to tour the factories for Briggs & Stratton, Tecumseh, and Snapper.
The first part sounds cool!
I bought a Honda walk behind 8 years ago and went to check underneath after watching your video. I check before each mow for caked grass/debris underneath but have never really had any issues with that issue. The opening above the blades a little different but not exactly like the model you demonstrated. Looks like I'll be checking this more closely in the future. I've never had any issues with the mower at all. It cuts really well and still starts on the first pull. It's the only pull start lawn equipment I have that my wife can start by herself. Really appreciate your video and taking time to share your knowledge and experience to educate us. Thanks from a new subscriber.
Like they say, the truth hurts (some). Thanks for presenting this very important video. Makes you wonder why a company would design, test, and still release a product like this. Thank you for providing a great service to so many. Have a great day.
they test these under good conditions and state the conditions in the owners and operators manual. no real world stuff.
The product was designed on a computer, not tested on cutting grass and put into production on the advice of a bean counter.
The suits opted for s/t profits & bonuses. Plus the financial boys overruled the engineering team & mkting group. SOS.
Real world testing requires real world use. As a lawn servant, I am often very disappointed with people who "review" lawn mowers and release their videos before they ever have to refuel the mower.
I've had three mowers. My latest is a Lawnboy with a Briggs and Stration engine I've had for ten years. No major repairs. Just routine maintenance.
Before that I've had a Honda and a Sears. Both lasted five years, but what went on them was the self propelled gears. It wasn't the belt, but the plastic gears wore out. I have a hilly 3/4 acre to mow with a 21", I always try to wait for the grass to dry, but that's not always possible,
I purchased a Husqvarna 435 chainsaw new. I had it for about three years. It ran really good. I never put too many hours on it, I would guess 15. Went to start it and couldn't pull the rope. Something fell apart inside the case. I could rock the crank back and forth about a quarter of a turn. I junked it and said I will never by Husqvarna product of any kind again.
Wow, great timing for this video! I recently spent over an hour disassembling the underside shroud in order to remove a jammed stick. And about 20 minutes of that repair was spent trying to get one bolt to line up with a T-nut that could not be held in place. Talk about frustrating!!
A few days later, I decided to disassemble everything again in order to Loctite all of the nuts and bolts to keep them from vibrating loose. And that ridiculously inaccessible T-nut? I epoxied that sucker back in place! LOL!
Thank you! I love my old Honda walk behind. Bought it on Fathers Day in 1996. Still going strong. We retired to a more rural area now I have a zero turn mower. Love it! The Honda is doing trim work. Love your videos.
I have an HRX about 6 years old. So far so good. Change oil every spring and plug and keep filter changed during season and run 93 non ethanol gas only.
This line has been coming in the last year. Until then every Honda mower has been spot on. They will straighten this out, might take a year or so, but they'll get it right.
@@dudekanic Hey Ron, Are these machines not covered under warranty? I advise people not to buy any new equipment. It's all junk in my opinion unless you're gonna spend big money.
@@rods.3245 Yes they would be, however, the Honda dealer here has been 6 months out, so we are faster.
I’ve had the same Craftsman mower for about 29 years. Just do a tune and oil change every 2 years. Fired it up today, started in the first pull!!
Oh man - I bought one of these two years ago. No problems - knock on wood. Will check for grass underneath before I use it next.
We are a small engine repair shop, as well,
seeing the same things as you are !
My mechanic is a first rate fabricator !
So he made a sheet metal ring, or plate for the cover in the opening !
So far, so good !
We will see how well it works out over time !
As for the plastic parts, shame on Honda !
We may need to form a new cover for this, but remains to be seen !
Honda won't be caring at all now that they are stepping away from building lawn mowers.
Wow! Surprised by Honda putting this on the market. Hope they saw this and recalls this model. They should pay you for quality control. Great stuff. Thanks.
They got out of push mower because of this junk
Wes, I have this mower and works great. The problems talked about in this video are operator error, miss use, and neglect, from cleaning or maintaining, Or just laziness. Lol
This model is already a couple of years old and I can't imagine they'd still be getting SO MANY positive reviews if every-other one sold breaks down within a few months.
@@kerigpope Exactly.
I almost purchased one of these Honda mowers. I decided to put a transmission, pinion gears and new wheels on my hrr216 instead. Glad I did and it works like new again!
3 years and I love my Honda HRN, but I wait for the weeds to dry golden brown before mowing. Yes, that air filter box keeps popping open.
Hey Chickanic! Good information and as you stated it is about that particular model. I personally own a Honda HRX 217 VKA 190 cc that I’ve had for more years than I can remember and have definitely put it through it’s paces living here in Oregon with our wet climate. Yes, I do my own maintenance and keep up on it and have never had a problem. Personally I swear by Honda but even the best can fail now and then. Keep up the great videos they are very informative.
My HRX 217 is going on 3. Glad to hear they last
@@montgomeryfitzpatrick473 My HRR216 is going on 8 years. No problems. I do blow it out after every use and clean under deck. DIY. Oil change, filter, plug every year and new blades every other year. I guess with Honda ending mower production they didn't really care as much on this unit.
The HRX is a Hydrostatic transmission though which is different than the HRN's belt drive system.
@@smokeycanuck8058 And the HRNs system sucks.
I had a Murray mulch mower I bought in the late 80s. It lasted well over 10 years. I moved and gave it to my brother. In less than a month, he broke it by going head on to a metal piped metal sprinkler head. He bent the shaft and at high speed it wobbled from being imbalanced. Some people just have the Midas touch in reverse
You’ve obviously fixed all the new mowers of todays generation, why not make a list of your top five mowers you would recommend for walk behind mowers,
@John She did it right, you might want to stop talking and learn how to fix "nothing" watch and you may learn, please keep the comments clean man.
Get a Honda.
I bought this model HRN216VYAA about 2 years ago and haven’t had any problems with it.
Too effen weird, I was looking at the Honda mower today. Thank you!
My wife keeps asking me why I fix my old equipment instead of buying a new one. Mfg's try to build new products as cheaply as they can year after year, more plastic, thinner metals, and lower costing castings... It's not just lawn equipment its everything these days. A example - plastic bearings in a rotatory beater brush on a vacuum..
Controlled obsolescence
I appreciate your honesty!! That's one of the reasons I watch your videos. I agree, or did, with Honda mowers being the best in walk behind mowers. But.. like everything else, I guess they've started cutting corners. The old ones with the cast aluminum deck and the three speed trans. were the best.. They were reliable and would mow for days on end with nothing more than gas and occasional oil change. I bought two of these, used, from a lawn service. Re-sold one and mowed with the other for several years with no problems. It still runs but needs some new tires.
Awesome advise as always! I’m guilty of mowing damp grass but I clean the mower when I am done
I don't. Tge old protect from the new.
Sometimes you have to mow wet grass. If it rained last night, and is sunny today and rain is forecast for next 3 days, and you are going out of town 4 days from now, you better cut today or you will need the hay bailer next week.
If I only mowed dry grass, I could only mow in August, maybe a couple weeks in July, lol. Grass would be up to my shoulders & still wet at ground level - you do the best you can, hope for a couple ‘dry’ days before the next storm....
I’m with you! Take a few minutes to wash the deck out after mowing will save you a lot of headaches
Yep. I had the same mower. I got stuck and couldn't get a commercial mower at the time due to lack of everything here during the time of covid. Served me well for approximately 4000 cuts before everything but the engine started to go. Good mower all round for the money in my opinion, but i must confess debris under the belt drove me nuts. But 4000 cuts for the average Joe is a lot of mowing I suppose....
Got my hrn216 a couple years ago. So far so good but will keep this in mind.
That's unfortunate for Honda. I've got a Honda walk behind self propelled mower and it's probably 15 to 20 years old and has never skipped a beat, never needed to go in for repairs and starts flawlessly, like most Honda motors. I wonder if Honda has changed some things and cheapened the manner that they build their mowers. I can't remember if the bottom side of mine (around the self propelled mechanism and pulley) is open but I'll take a look next time I mow. Anyway, thanks for the info. I'll know to stay away from buying a new one and keep my old mower running for another 20 years.
@chief: same here. I’ve had 3 Honda mowers. Earliest I bought was 1985. Got rid of it after about 10 years. It had an all metal deck and was heavy. My wife complained about the weight when she wanted to mow grass (about 3 times a year). Bought a new all composite deck Honda. The last Honda I bought was in 2009 and still have it and use it. Still runs great. I clean it up when I’m done mowing. My neighbor used to give me a hard time about cleaning it. He’s on his third mower (none of his were Honda’s). He never cleaned his, bought cheap ones.
@@deepsleep7822 HA! We've got the same neighbor. Borrowed both my Honda mower and snow blower when his wouldn't start, was broken or in the shop for repair. He always bragged about getting a good deal on a cheap mower/blower and last summer he broke down and bought a Honda mower and hasn't needed mine since.
If think most lawnmowers were just better made. We have a champion 2003 with a Briggs classic 35, no issues at all and it hasn’t been maintained well to be honest in terms of servicing yet it doesn’t skip a beat. The only issue has been a bit of rust on the deck but as I said, it’s been left outside and not maintained as well as I now know you should. Anything new seems to be riddled with problems
Great info. I gave up on self-propelled years ago. I guess I bought the wrong models. The last one I had, I disabled the self-propel gears/belts and pushed it for many years thereafter. Keep the videos coming! Thanks!
I've been using the Honda HRX for over ten years and the only issue I've had was with the pull cord. I do change the oil, plug, air filter and blades once per year. I use the mower approximately one hour per week from April to September.
I have the same model and have been using it over 12 years. I think the HRX is commerical grade and that makes the difference.
Some people don't have common sense. The look of that mower simply shows the laziness and carelessness of the operator.
That would be one of the shaft drive self propelled ones?
@@bucsfan0077 Hi Fry, The HRC line is Honda's commercial line. HRX is not rated for commercial duty.
I just came across your videos thank you you are teaching me something and i like the fact that you are a woman and speaking to me as one thanks 😊😊
Thank you. Seems like a simple cover would be an easy fix. If Mr Honda finds out , I bet this will be upgraded that day with some kind of snap on shield.
I have this exact model and have used it commercially at about 5-8 hours per week, for about a year, with zero (0) issues. Granted, I would never allow my mower to look as neglected as that one (1) did, underneath.
In any event, I appreciate the potential heads up and information. Keep up the great content.
Same. Solid mower
I myself just had this HRN216VKA delivered yesterday and I just unboxed it today. Heck, I haven't even put in the gas or oil yet. I then saw this video tonight and my heart sank. I hope I didn't make a major mistake. 😖
In my purchase research I knew some people had experienced premature belt issues, but I chalked it up to users who don't maintain their machines properly, which is something I plan to do-my previous mower died because of a lack of caring for it. But at $500 for a replacement mower I won't be making that mistake again! In the video seeing how caked the grass was tells me that the owner didn't keep it clean, plus they most likely had the deck too low for thick, wet grass to properly mulch back into the thatch.
At this point it looks like I have no choice but to use the Honda I just bought, but I'll now be extra-observant of the mowing conditions and adjust my mowing accordingly. I already plan to carefully maintain the engine with proper oil changes, filter & spark plug checks and using only treated gas for storage, now I'll be cleaning the under-deck after EACH use. Hopefully I won't come to regret my purchase, but it is nice to have that 3 year warranty that I hope I'll never need. This model is already a couple of years old and I can't imagine they'd still be getting SO MANY positive reviews if every-other one sold breaks down within a few months. 🤷♂️
@@kerigpope Like I mentioned, I use it 5-8 hours a week, sometimes more. I regularly keep the underside clean, and avoid wet grass when I can. And when I say clean, I mean all I do is take a water hose to it, and clean it out. I occasionally put a bit of John Deere belt dressing on the belt. I change the plug once a season, and shake out the air filter after each full day of use. And given the hours I put on it, I change the oil once a month, and use a full synthetic 10w30 (it's cheaper than buying Honda conventional oil). I've honestly expected problems given how tough I am on it, but I haven't had a single issue, minus lubricating some squeaks. The only thing I would change is I would buy the model with the bigger motor. Although to be fair the motor (170) has not been an issue. It's also the most fuel efficient mower I've ever had my hands on.
Good luck with your purchase friend.
I’d take your advice or opinion over a salesperson’s any day of the week! Great content!
It truly is amazing how all these fragile parts are buried in such a way to make it difficult to replace... almost makes you think it is done on purpose 🙄
It’s definitely done on purpose so it isn’t worth fixing and you throw it away and buy a new one.
@@joemelissabucik7689controlled obsolescence
Thanks for your vid on the Castor Oil for skin brown spots. It works for me too. Also, thank you for your small engine power equipment knowledge sharing. Very useful, and appreciated! Keep on doing what you do. Honda, just goes to show that nobody is immune to error, accidental or on purpose Thanks again.
Good Info, down Here in Oz, I've Always shunned Honda, Mowers and stuck to the more reliable Older, Briggs & Stratton
YOU ARE THE BEST...YOU know your STUFF about these machines
I've always sort of suspected that typical big box offerings were not going to be at the Honda HRX series level. However, I'm really surprised to hear about these issues with Honda mowers, even the HRN series. I purchased a Honda HRX 217 mower in 2004 for $600, a somewhat exorbitant amount of money for a self-propelled walk-behind mower at that time. The reviews were outstanding and I had had it with cheaper mowers that always needed repairs and eventual replacement. I even had a Toro for a short while and in my opinion it was junk, with poor ergonomics, two wheels always falling off, cheap sheet metal height adjustment levers that didn't hold, a tiny bag that didn't last, etc.
From the moment I got it, I knew the Honda HRX 217 was a beast. The composite deck and everything about it is bullet proof. It is the best mower I've ever owned. It gets hard use on a half acre lot, part of which isn't the smoothest. From spring clean up of winter leaves, sticks and small branches, throughout the summer, and deep into the fall with leaf mulching and pickup, this mower has been challenged and it is still going strong. At $600 and now into its 21st year works out to an average $28 per year cost so far, and declining. I change the plug and oil annually and only use non-ethanol gas in it, so I don't even have carburetor issues.
All of that said, last year Honda announced it was getting out of the gas-powered mower business. Thinking that nothing lasts forever, I decided to buy a new HRX 217 but by the time I became aware of that fact, they were no where to be found locally. I finally located - and bought - the last one (of two), 150 miles away.
Great info love that you put it out to the consumer. We need more honest shop owners like you! Thanks CHICKANIC
I own an HRR216 & MY mower looks like new underneath. I always prep for winter storage AND spray underneath carriage w/Fluid Film after washing it all off & dry.