Honda 00X31-VL0-U540 Owner's Manual page 13

Spark Plug Service
Recommended Spark Plug: NGK - BPR5ES
An incorrect spark plug can cause engine damage.
For good performance, the spark plug must be properly gapped and
free of deposits.
1. Disconnect the spark plug
cap and remove any dirt
from around the spark plug
area.
2. Remove the spark plug
with a 13/16 in (21 mm)
spark plug wrench.
3. Inspect the spark plug.
Replace it if the electrodes
are worn, or if the insulator
is cracked or chipped.
4. Measure the spark plug
electrode gap with a
suitable gauge. The gap
should be 0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.7 ~ 0.8 mm). Correct the
gap, if necessary, by
carefully bending the side
electrode.
5. Install the spark plug
carefully, by hand, to avoid
cross-threading.
6. After the spark plug seats, tighten with a 21 mm (13/16 in) spark
plug wrench to compress the washer.
If reinstalling the old spark plug, tighten 1/8 to 1/4 turn after the
spark plug seats.
If installing a new spark plug, tighten 1/2 turn after the spark plug
seats to compress the sealing washer.
NOTICE
A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening the spark plug can damage the threads in the
cylinder head.
7. Install the spark plug cap on the spark plug.
SPARK PLUG
SPARK
PLUG
CAP
SPARK PLUG
WRENCH
0.028 ~ 0.031 in
(0.7 ~ 0.8 mm)
SEALING
WASHER
Spark Arrester Service (optional equipment)
Your lawn mower engine is not factory-equipped with a spark arrester.
In some areas, it is illegal to operate an engine without a spark
arrester. Check local laws and regulations. An optional USDA
approved spark arrester is available from an authorized Honda
servicing dealer. See page 19 for part numbers.
The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 hours to keep it
functioning as designed.
1. Allow the engine to cool and disconnect the spark plug cap to
prevent accidental starting.
2. Remove the three flange bolts and the heat shield. Remove the set
screw and the spark arrester from the muffler.
3. Check for carbon deposits on the spark arrester and the exhaust
port. Use a brush to remove any carbon deposits from the screen.
Replace the screen if it is torn or damaged.
4. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten all hardware
securely.
5. Reconnect the spark plug cap.
SET SCREW
BOLT (3)
MUFFLER HEAT SHIELD
Blade Control Lever
Start the engine outdoors and move the throttle to FAST (PDA, SDA).
Release the blade control lever; the engine should stop quickly. If it
does not, take your mower to an authorized Honda servicing dealer
for repair.
MUFFLER
SPARK ARRESTER
13