FYI for everyone, there is a service bulletin dated March 2017, service bulletin #107. The bushings on the wheels on some models were undersized & cause the rear wheels to move backwards. Here are the model numbers that are affected: HRR216K9VKA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580 HRR216K9VLA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580 HRR216K9VYA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580 The fix is to replace the adjuster arms & if under warranty it is a free repair. Here is a link to the document on a lawn mower forum, it also tells how to do the repair yourself: www.lawnmowerforum.com/showthread.php/42592-Honda-HRR-Models-Rear-Wheels-Locking-Up-When-Pulling-Backwards
Spot on. Solved the problem with less than two minutes work. My kid is disappointed though. He thought he was going to talk me into buying a riding mower.
@@joegomez4773 Could be. He took over my roto tiller and my snowblower, but if he wants a zeroturn mower, he's gonna have to figure out how to pay for it.
Your info is remarkable. Straight to the point! I’m not here to see your dog or hear about your problems, you show exactly what to do and even add information for others with different models and brands! Awesome Job
Thanks for the compliment, that's exactly what I aim to do. Though, if you watch enough of the videos on the channel, you will find that Melvin the cat does sometimes photo bomb a scene. lol!
Your fix was so easy to follow and spot on! My problem was that the mower back wheels locked up in reverse. The self propelled didn’t work either. Watching your video, I was able to fix both issues without a problem. I thank you!
After a whole day working on my lawn mower. I change the drive belt watching tens of videos. I finally came across your video after a comment on reddit had a link to it . 2 minutes later my problem was solved clear and straight to the point ....thank you.
I can't thank you enough!! I followed your link at the end of the video on my 3-year-old HRX217VKAA (hoping the VKA and VKAA were similar) and it worked GREAT! Before, I had to push it up a hill even on maximum drive, now it will go uphill like a tank!
My Honda HRX217K5VKAA worked exactly bass ackwards from this video. Honda must have changed the internal linkage. Mine was pulling weakly, even on the highest speed setting. But when I "tightened" the drive cable per the video, it would not even move forward at all. I had to turn the adjuster in the opposite direction until the mower would barely move on the "low" speed setting. Did not count any turns. Now works great. No longer have to keep it on high speed. Video was well done.
Thanks for taking the time to note your model is not adjusted the same as the one in the video. I try to make quality videos that don't waste your time.
What a fantastic, clear and precise how to DIY video! My mower got to a point it couldn't even climb the slightest uphill grade. Now I just barely push on the paddle and off it goes. I bought my mower new about seven years ago and forgot how fast it was! I expected the adjustment to be far more complex than that! Thanks buddy!!
Thanks for the compliment. I recently added a video on how to troubleshoot self propel problems on this mower... if you should need it. ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=0crddyvugYt5va4Q
Excellent! Mine had stopped pulling up slopes, and the belt replacement looked like a pain, so I assumed I was headed to the shop off-season. Now, after 10 minutes of work, I’m good to go.
Excellent information! I was skeptical that it would work for my problem, but it was the perfect solution. No other video offered this clear and concise guidance. Thank you!
Excellent work on this video! I always prefer non-video repair guides because of all the extraneous junk but you're showing that a concise video is possible!
OMG! It worked!!! Struggled with that lawn mower towards the end of last year and so far this year. Not sure why it worked, feel like it took 8 turns to lock the wheels and then 8 back for my model but it did! God Bless you!!
You Rock!!! I purchased this mower new. I’m 6’5” and would have to almost jog if I pressed lever the all the way down. After having the mower serviced I noticed it wasn’t quite the same. This was driving me crazy. After applying test and doing your adjustments, it’s as good as new. Many thanks!!!
It's my pleasure to help! Thank you for watching the video and taking the time to comment. It's always nice to hear from the people who watch the videos.
Very helpful video. Wish I had seen it before I spent $35 in parts and my morning replacing the belt and drive pulley on an 8 year old Honda I got from a relative. Turns out the cable was the main problem.
Thanks so much. Got the mower back from the repair shop (in for a tuneup) and the rear drive didn't work any longer. This video & five minutes - done! Works like new.
Ma'am I just want to thank you very much for that video. That saved me looking in the owner's manual. Took me about 2 minutes to adjust my drive train. Back to normal and kicking ass. You're awesome sweetie!!! 💥💥💯
Thanx a Million; Honda mowers did't exist when I went to the small engine mechanics trade school 45 years ago. U R a better teacher than our shop Instructor, who was always drunk when he got to work. I've learned more from U n a couple Hrs than I did n the school n a month.
Problem solved because of your helpful video. Followed your directions on how to adjust the self propelled linkage and after testing the results, problem solved. I am grateful for avoiding all the hassles related to transferring the mower to the shop not to mention my wife being under the false impression I am handy at this sort of thing! 😊
Thank you! This video is just what I needed! You helped me make my mower auto-pilot again - making me a happy girl! Many thanks for the simple clean guidance!
Thank you so much I bought and put a new belt on and it was still lagging but I saw how you tightened it up took me 2 minutes tops to make the adjustment.I now have a Run Behind Mower 😁
This video was of great assistance. My drive would not engage when I attempted to use my mower this year. Now it works fine. Two thumbs up for this video. Thank you!
Great video! Thanks so much. Not sure how many turns I had to make (well over 15) to get the wheels to lock up but after backing off of that as you described (8 turns for mine), I need to pull out my track shoes to keep up! Beats the heck out of pushing that beast around. Mine was the Home Depot model (HRR2169VYA). Your help will make for a much more pleasant mowing season! Thanks again!
Thanks! Took about 3 minutes and just eyeballed it. Thing is pulling like the day it came out of the box again. And I was thinking the belt was wore out lol! Not even close.
My land is pretty flat and my mower has turned into a push mower. I replaced the belt last year, too! I'm gonna try this adjustment when I get home and hopefully it fixes the self propel!
And the adjustment worked! Now I don't feel like I'm fighting the lawnmower - the rear wheels would also lock up just pulling it backward - it irritated the crap out of me!
Thanks. I just replaced the transmission in mine. My issue is that the mower now is hard to push forward. Almost like if the transmission is engaged at all times. I loosened the cable to max loose and its still hard to push forward
The cable or the smart drive paddle ua-cam.com/video/cCCjkiASjtA/v-deo.htmlsi=5qkw_mTknChzg_ra ua-cam.com/video/ImPe3vdtfrY/v-deo.htmlsi=_iC9HuAiQBzAkXPF
I have Model HRR216VLA. The rear wheels lock whether or not I engage the smart drive when pulling backwards. The smart drive only works intermittently when going forward. Any suggestions for an adjustment in this case?
I have a video on how to troubleshoot problems with the self propel. Try checking it out, it might help diagnose the problem. ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=bAk4hVTEsr2eFjRc
I’m glad I found this video, but it didn’t work exactly as proposed. I tightened the adjuster turn after turn but the wheels never locked up. I eventually ran out of adjuster thread. I re threaded the adjuster, threaded it back to where it was and then just tightened it until the wheel started to drag when the handles where pushed down and before they got all the way down.
having just done this repair, i dont understand why the manual says to tighten and then to loosen 8 turns before setting the jam nut. i had to undo those last 8 turns to get it to work correctly.
My rear wheels spin when I lift them off the ground but when I set them down the mower will not move forward. When I push the mower it sometimes give resistance. Any thoughts??
You are welcome, Keith! Thanks for watching the video and taking the time to comment. I have other Honda Mower videos and will add more in the future. Here's a link to the current playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
I don't know of any way to do that. You could adjust the position of the drive paddle. Push the black slider button to the left, hold in place while changing the position of the paddle. Release the slider to lock the new position in place.
When I mow the drive is engaging but not enough to make a difference (if I lift the back wheels they are def freely spinning, just not strong enough to propel the mower). When I am mowing I can roll backwards, but when the mower isn't started and when I try to do your roll-backwards lever test , the back wheels will not roll backwards at all. They're completely locked up. Do you think this is still a cable adjustment, or am I dealing with something else, perhaps a shot belt or some transmission issue?
PS - I do have a video that shows how to troubleshoot mowers that won't self propel. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=I5GqsEMOhA9F6aDK
My HR214 is clattering a little, then a lot with propulsion engaged. I have changed the ratchets on the drive wheels. The drive wheels do lock if I pull it backwards. Is this clatter and stop and go relate to self propel or the belt?
My problem is that when I pull the lever the self propelled portion on works and the wheels turn when I pick up the rear wheels but as soon as they hit the ground they stop moving. Any idea why?
I'm not clear on your question, I think you are saying that you have tried to adjust the cable. That the wheels turn if they are off the ground, but when you put them on the ground the mower doesn't move? If that is the problem, it sounds like the transmission may be the problem.
I have an HRR2169VKA MZCG 9297326 with a drive issue. I just replaced the belt and serviced the drive wheels. Now, it takes off like a racehorse and then stops. At other times, it starts pulling to the left due to the right wheel spinning faster than the left. The right wheel also locks up when moving the mower in reverse or making a turn. Do you have any idea what I can do to remedy this?
While rolling it back, the paddle should be parallel with the handle, correct? When I tried this, I kept tightening the adjuster and it still rolled backwards. Eventually ran out of thread and the adjuster separated from the threaded section. Wheels never did lock up. I just put the adjuster back on and loosened it until it was midway or so up the thread, and left it there. But I don't feel I've properly adjusted anything.
@@Know-How-Now Yes, I had the paddle down (parallel w/handle). The video said "don't engage the smart drive" so I left it locked in the parallel position, without pushing it down with my thumb. Tried it again just now, same result. Oh well, at least when the adjuster came off the threaded section, I was able to put a light coating of grease on the threads to make it easier to turn the next time.
Thank you for posting this! Your instructions were very clear and easy to follow. 👍🙂 Of course this is not at you (I just need to vent) but why the 🤬 would engineers design this to be such an involved process!? 🙄 Last lawnmower I had was a Murray (bought in 1999) and it had a belt drive design that never needed adjusting. It also had an auto-adjusting feature that compensated for belt wear. Why this lawnmower could not have been designed in a similar fashion is ridiculous! Honda could have designed this much better because doing it this way is like going back to the 1970s! SMH 😒
No worries about venting. You are not the only one that thinks the process is involved and that the belt should auto-adjust. That's why I made the video, I had the hardest time following the process. My brother was given an almost brand new version of this mower that did not have the drive train. It belonged to an older women and it was too hard to for her to push. He eventually figured out that it was hard to push because there was some sort of bushing/washer in the wheels that apparently was in place so the mower would not easily roll backwards? He removed the part causing the drag and then the mower was easy to push. What were they thinking? Maybe a lawsuit because someone rolled over their foot? I've discovered that this mower also was made to be difficult to pull backwards.
@@Know-How-Now You know you’re probably right; it possibly was a lawsuit or two that drove companies to design some things the way they did. Of course it can be aggravating for people like me and you who exercise good safe working habits as it’s another cumbersome thing we have to deal with. However for the rest of the “Darwin award” winners out there companies HAVE to do that to protect themselves! I can’t blame them either. 🤨
I will try using your instructions the next time my HRX217VKA locks up in reverse. The last time I took to Honda Dealer, not cheap repair. I try to do as much of the maintenance my self. I've noticed lately my mower when not running is harder to push forward. Is that caused by the same adjustment? Your videos are very well done, Thank you.
You might try the video I have about Honda Mowers that are hard to pull backwards. I'll put a link to my playlist of mower repair videos below. Please consider a super thanks/donation and subscribing to the channel. I am one of the very few who will spend time answering questions. ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
My hand lever doesn’t go back up on its own. When I push it down to engage the self propelled action, I have to push it back up to stop the mower from moving. Any idea as to why this is happening?
There is a spring in there, maybe it broke. Check out this video to see what is inside. Let us know how it works out... it might help someone else with the same problem. ua-cam.com/video/jqAshKTFjAo/v-deo.html
You are welcome, Michael. Thanks for watching the video and taking the time to comment. I have some other Honda repair videos and will be adding more in the future. Here is a link to the playlist of current videos: ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
If it works, I'd adjust it until it doesn't work. If you think the belt is close to the end of it's life you could buy a belt so when it fails you can change it quickly.
Happy I found your channel. I have been trying to find a info on the smart drive paddles and cable. I started to try myself but stopped came upon your channel. I cannot find anything about the smart drive paddles. I went to mow today and that piece just is down and I cannot get it to stick. I can push mow but I managed one strip. Have you heard of this, or what it can be? Thank you for your information. Being a widow I see your channel will help me a lot!!
Sorry about that. I reread it and didn’t make sense. As I started to mow, I immediately noticed the smart drive you push down to propel the mower had no pull down tension. It is just loose, I did take it apart to see if I could see if something is broke. All seem ok the only item I noticed is the pin that is in that clutch the wire had a U showing me the cable is not tight. I left all pieces alone and came to your video. I’m not sure if I need to replace the clutch/propeller or cable. I hope this is better. Thank you!!
It hasn't been too much trouble, though I'm not sure I'd buy another one. I think I read that Honda is stopping production of them. The cons, the wheels wear out quickly, the mower is hard (designed this way) to pull backwards. The deck is getting a little rust on it, though, I don't clean it. The good, it almost always starts on the first pull. The quality of the parts is good. To be fair, I'd have to try similarly priced mowers to really know if it is worth buying. My brother has the non self propelled model and it is very heavy.
No it doesn't need to be running to do this, though, after you have adjusted it as shown in the video, you can start it up and make a final check the forward drive speed.
Just an FYI in case anyone reads this. Mine did lock up before the smart control was vertical like 150ish degrees. I still did this procedure and it fixed the issue. So if anyone does that test and thinks this isn't the issue. Try it anyway.
HI, I have a Honda HRR216VYA and I wonder if you have a video on orienting the pinion gears. It’s a little confusing. I have the shop manual and it’s not very clear. Is the orientation the same for the right and left side (as if you’re standing behind it)? The gears have a flat edge to the curved cutouts which I assume allows the gear to move in only one direction. Hence the clicking sound. Should the flat side face the back of the mower for both sides or only one. I hope I explained this clearly, lol. Any help would be appreciated.
I don't have my Honda long enough to have to fix/perform maintenance on the drive train, so no video on that yet. Take a look at this video, it may answer your question: ua-cam.com/video/h-hdIG0UhJU/v-deo.html
Know How Now Thanks! That video was just what I needed. I had found one on Repair Clinic but it only showed replacing a pinion gear on one side. This. one shows reassemble,y on both sides! Subscribed to your channel!
You are welcome. I had looked at the Repair Clinic video and remembered the pinion gears. When needed, I'll be doing some service on those pinion gears & will make a video. Thanks for subscribing.
Very helpful instruction clip and very well produced too. I do have one clarifying question, however: When tightening the cable adjuster, am I doing so until the rear wheels lock up? Or until they START to lock up? You actually use both expressions in your presentation, the first at 2:28 and the second at 2:32. On my mower, there's a 2 or 3 turn difference between starting to lock up and locking up. Thanks.
FYI for everyone, there is a service bulletin dated March 2017, service bulletin #107. The bushings on the wheels on some models were undersized & cause the rear wheels to move backwards. Here are the model numbers that are affected:
HRR216K9VKA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580
HRR216K9VLA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580
HRR216K9VYA serial numbers MZCG-8670001-9933580
The fix is to replace the adjuster arms & if under warranty it is a free repair.
Here is a link to the document on a lawn mower forum, it also tells how to do the repair yourself: www.lawnmowerforum.com/showthread.php/42592-Honda-HRR-Models-Rear-Wheels-Locking-Up-When-Pulling-Backwards
I can't thank you enough.
It's my pleasure to help, Susy.
Spot on. Solved the problem with less than two minutes work. My kid is disappointed though. He thought he was going to talk me into buying a riding mower.
for home use, or work?
@@joegomez4773 Could be. He took over my roto tiller and my snowblower, but if he wants a zeroturn mower, he's gonna have to figure out how to pay for it.
Your info is remarkable. Straight to the point! I’m not here to see your dog or hear about your problems, you show exactly what to do and even add information for others with different models and brands! Awesome Job
Thanks for the compliment, that's exactly what I aim to do. Though, if you watch enough of the videos on the channel, you will find that Melvin the cat does sometimes photo bomb a scene. lol!
These are about the clearest and easiest-to-follow instructions that I've ever come across for any project on UA-cam. Thank you so much.
You are welcome. Thank you for watching the video and the compliment. Have a great day.
Your fix was so easy to follow and spot on! My problem was that the mower back wheels locked up in reverse. The self propelled didn’t work either. Watching your video, I was able to fix both issues without a problem. I thank you!
You are welcome! Great to hear that the adjustment solved your problem.
BEST HONDA PROPELL ADVICE I’VE FOUND. Thank you
You are welcome, Fernando. Thanks for the compliment.
After a whole day working on my lawn mower. I change the drive belt watching tens of videos. I finally came across your video after a comment on reddit had a link to it . 2 minutes later my problem was solved clear and straight to the point ....thank you.
You are welcome. Sorry to hear it took a while to find the answer to the problem.
Mowing the lawn just became so much easier again thanks to your video. Great job and thank you so much.
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.
I can't thank you enough!! I followed your link at the end of the video on my 3-year-old HRX217VKAA (hoping the VKA and VKAA were similar) and it worked GREAT! Before, I had to push it up a hill even on maximum drive, now it will go uphill like a tank!
You are welcome! Happy mowing. There are a few other videos on the channel about this mower.
My Honda HRX217K5VKAA worked exactly bass ackwards from this video. Honda must have changed the internal linkage. Mine was pulling weakly, even on the highest speed setting. But when I "tightened" the drive cable per the video, it would not even move forward at all. I had to turn the adjuster in the opposite direction until the mower would barely move on the "low" speed setting. Did not count any turns. Now works great. No longer have to keep it on high speed. Video was well done.
Thanks for taking the time to note your model is not adjusted the same as the one in the video. I try to make quality videos that don't waste your time.
HRN216 had to turn the other way. Thanks for the video
What a fantastic, clear and precise how to DIY video! My mower got to a point it couldn't even climb the slightest uphill grade. Now I just barely push on the paddle and off it goes. I bought my mower new about seven years ago and forgot how fast it was! I expected the adjustment to be far more complex than that! Thanks buddy!!
You are welcome! Thank you for taking the time to comment. Happy mowing. lol.
This is the best explanation on UA-cam. Straight and to the point.
Thanks for the compliment. I recently added a video on how to troubleshoot self propel problems on this mower... if you should need it. ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=0crddyvugYt5va4Q
Excellent! Mine had stopped pulling up slopes, and the belt replacement looked like a pain, so I assumed I was headed to the shop off-season. Now, after 10 minutes of work, I’m good to go.
Excellent information! I was skeptical that it would work for my problem, but it was the perfect solution. No other video offered this clear and concise guidance. Thank you!
You are welcome!
Zoe its been a minute.... but you still don't disappoint
Excellent work on this video! I always prefer non-video repair guides because of all the extraneous junk but you're showing that a concise video is possible!
Keep it short, that's what I aim to do. Have a great day.
Thank you! Worked perfectly. My wheels would freeze when the lever was fully engaged, so I just went four full turns and it’s back to new.
You are welcome, Ben.
OMG! It worked!!! Struggled with that lawn mower towards the end of last year and so far this year. Not sure why it worked, feel like it took 8 turns to lock the wheels and then 8 back for my model but it did! God Bless you!!
You Rock!!! I purchased this mower new. I’m 6’5” and would have to almost jog if I pressed lever the all the way down. After having the mower serviced I noticed it wasn’t quite the same. This was driving me crazy. After applying test and doing your adjustments, it’s as good as new. Many thanks!!!
It's my pleasure to help! Thank you for watching the video and taking the time to comment. It's always nice to hear from the people who watch the videos.
Very helpful video. Wish I had seen it before I spent $35 in parts and my morning replacing the belt and drive pulley on an 8 year old Honda I got from a relative. Turns out the cable was the main problem.
Thanks for taking the time to write the compliment, Brandon.
Thanks so much. Got the mower back from the repair shop (in for a tuneup) and the rear drive didn't work any longer. This video & five minutes - done! Works like new.
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.
Out of all the "Pro" videos. No one explained it better then you. Keep it up!
Thanks for the compliment, Mark. I do my best to make quality videos that don't waste your time.
Thank you thank you!! My mower was acting up and I found this video. My mower now works great thanks to this video. Two thumbs up to you sir.
Glad it helped!
Ma'am I just want to thank you very much for that video. That saved me looking in the owner's manual. Took me about 2 minutes to adjust my drive train. Back to normal and kicking ass. You're awesome sweetie!!! 💥💥💯
It's my pleasure to help, Nathan. Happy mowing! lol.
Great video, concise and professional. Plus the use of correct terminology confirms you know what you’re doing.
Had this problem last year and put off repairing since I didn't have any major hills. Will remedy right away. Thanks for your great tutorial 👍
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.
Thanx a Million; Honda mowers did't exist when I went to the small engine mechanics trade school 45 years ago.
U R a better teacher than our shop Instructor, who was always drunk when he got to work.
I've learned more from U n a couple Hrs than I did n the school n a month.
You are welcome. Thanks for watching the video and the compliment.
Thanks for this!! Thought I was going to have to take mine to the repair shop. So simple to repair/adjust.
You are welcome! Thank you for watching the video and taking the time to comment.
Problem solved because of your helpful video. Followed your directions on how to adjust the self propelled linkage and after testing the results, problem solved. I am grateful for avoiding all the hassles related to transferring the mower to the shop not to mention my wife being under the false impression I am handy at this sort of thing! 😊
We won't tell wifey your secret! lol.
Thank you! This video is just what I needed! You helped me make my mower auto-pilot again - making me a happy girl! Many thanks for the simple clean guidance!
You are welcome! Happy mowing!
Thank you so much for the tutorial, I assumed something was broken on mine (HRR216VXA), and all it needed was an adjustment!
You are welcome!
Thank you so much I bought and put a new belt on and it was still lagging but I saw how you tightened it up took me 2 minutes tops to make the adjustment.I now have a Run Behind Mower 😁
You are welcome.
Thanks so much! Easy to follow instructions. Saved me from getting it serviced professionally, and a lot of money !
You're welcome!
Thanks very much for the video. This was more clear to me than the owner's manual.
You are welcome.
Which way to tighten? Clockwise or Counter Clockwise?
This video was of great assistance. My drive would not engage when I attempted to use my mower this year. Now it works fine. Two thumbs up for this video. Thank you!
You are welcome, Mark!
Great video! Thanks so much. Not sure how many turns I had to make (well over 15) to get the wheels to lock up but after backing off of that as you described (8 turns for mine), I need to pull out my track shoes to keep up! Beats the heck out of pushing that beast around. Mine was the Home Depot model (HRR2169VYA). Your help will make for a much more pleasant mowing season! Thanks again!
You are welcome, Art. It's my pleasure to help!
Thanks! Took about 3 minutes and just eyeballed it. Thing is pulling like the day it came out of the box again. And I was thinking the belt was wore out lol! Not even close.
You are welcome!
Great info on adjusting the travel cable on a Honda walk behind mower
This is an awesome video. My mower is now running GREAT. Thanks!!
You are welcome! It's always nice to hear that the videos have been helpful. Way to go on the successful repair!
Wow this really helped me... replaced the belt thinking that was my problem! Thank you ☺️
You are welcome. Way to go on being resourceful and finding the solution to your problem.
Awesome straightforward clear and useful directions. Thank you. My mower is working right.
You are welcome. Thanks for the compliment.
So glad I found this video! Honda should be paying you!
My land is pretty flat and my mower has turned into a push mower. I replaced the belt last year, too! I'm gonna try this adjustment when I get home and hopefully it fixes the self propel!
And the adjustment worked! Now I don't feel like I'm fighting the lawnmower - the rear wheels would also lock up just pulling it backward - it irritated the crap out of me!
Perfect how-to video. Fixed based on your example. Thanks so much!
You are welcome. Good to see the combination of the two videos got your mower moving again.
Thank you so much! Now my lawn mover become brand new.
You are welcome!
Thanks for this!. Fixed my HRX217 in 10 mins. It's zooming now
Great! You are welcome.
Thanks much. Very good video, still quite relevant. I like the lack of BS in the video. Nicely done.
You are welcome. Thanks for the compliment, I try to keep the videos short, but informative.
Thanks. I just replaced the transmission in mine. My issue is that the mower now is hard to push forward. Almost like if the transmission is engaged at all times. I loosened the cable to max loose and its still hard to push forward
Let's go! I thought my mower was kaput. So glad I found this 😊
Thanks so much for this, so glad to have my Smart Drive and self propel working again 😀
You are welcome. Happy mowing.
Not sure what I did but the paddle just hangs there now.
Thanks for the video now my mower is like a rocket know at full speed your practically running!
You are welcome!
Excellent, precise and quick explanation
Thanks for the compliment, Chris.
I have a question I have a hrx217vka and my smart drive paddle is completely loose any ideas what it could be ?
The cable or the smart drive paddle
ua-cam.com/video/cCCjkiASjtA/v-deo.htmlsi=5qkw_mTknChzg_ra
ua-cam.com/video/ImPe3vdtfrY/v-deo.htmlsi=_iC9HuAiQBzAkXPF
I have Model HRR216VLA. The rear wheels lock whether or not I engage the smart drive when pulling backwards. The smart drive only works intermittently when going forward. Any suggestions for an adjustment in this case?
I have a video on how to troubleshoot problems with the self propel. Try checking it out, it might help diagnose the problem. ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=bAk4hVTEsr2eFjRc
Great demonstration and commentary
I’m glad I found this video, but it didn’t work exactly as proposed. I tightened the adjuster turn after turn but the wheels never locked up. I eventually ran out of adjuster thread. I re threaded the adjuster, threaded it back to where it was and then just tightened it until the wheel started to drag when the handles where pushed down and before they got all the way down.
having just done this repair, i dont understand why the manual says to tighten and then to loosen 8 turns before setting the jam nut. i had to undo those last 8 turns to get it to work correctly.
Thank you. I followed your instructions and it worked perfectly.
You are welcome, Jeff.
Extremely clear and simple! Bravo!
My rear wheels spin when I lift them off the ground but when I set them down the mower will not move forward. When I push the mower it sometimes give resistance. Any thoughts??
If adjusting the cable didn't help and the belt looks OK, maybe it's a problem with the transmission.
@@Know-How-Now adjusting the cable worked, thanks
Great! You are welcome.
Thank you! You’re instructions worked like a charm!!
You are welcome, Keith! Thanks for watching the video and taking the time to comment. I have other Honda Mower videos and will add more in the future. Here's a link to the current playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
Your instructions worked perfectly - thank you!!
You're welcome!
Is there any way to set the smart drive mechanism so I can create a limiter for the fastest speed? It is too easy to push too far and do a wheelie.
I don't know of any way to do that. You could adjust the position of the drive paddle. Push the black slider button to the left, hold in place while changing the position of the paddle. Release the slider to lock the new position in place.
Good job. Straight to the point.
When I mow the drive is engaging but not enough to make a difference (if I lift the back wheels they are def freely spinning, just not strong enough to propel the mower). When I am mowing I can roll backwards, but when the mower isn't started and when I try to do your roll-backwards lever test , the back wheels will not roll backwards at all. They're completely locked up. Do you think this is still a cable adjustment, or am I dealing with something else, perhaps a shot belt or some transmission issue?
If adjusting the cable doesn't solve the problem, then it's likely a belt or transmission.
PS - I do have a video that shows how to troubleshoot mowers that won't self propel. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=I5GqsEMOhA9F6aDK
My HR214 is clattering a little, then a lot with propulsion engaged. I have changed the ratchets on the drive wheels. The drive wheels do lock if I pull it backwards. Is this clatter and stop and go relate to self propel or the belt?
Your video's are so great thank you!
You are welcome, Joel!
Why do we have to loosen it 8 turns after tightening it?
My problem is that when I pull the lever the self propelled portion on works and the wheels turn when I pick up the rear wheels but as soon as they hit the ground they stop moving. Any idea why?
I'm not clear on your question, I think you are saying that you have tried to adjust the cable. That the wheels turn if they are off the ground, but when you put them on the ground the mower doesn't move? If that is the problem, it sounds like the transmission may be the problem.
Thanks very much! I have the same mower and this fixed the Smart Drive.
You are welcome, David!
I have an HRR2169VKA MZCG 9297326 with a drive issue. I just replaced the belt and serviced the drive wheels. Now, it takes off like a racehorse and then stops. At other times, it starts pulling to the left due to the right wheel spinning faster than the left. The right wheel also locks up when moving the mower in reverse or making a turn. Do you have any idea what I can do to remedy this?
If you didn't have this problem before you took the wheels apart, I'd double check that you put the wheels back together correctly.
@@Know-How-Now I did that, and the dot on the drive gear faces out on both sides. Thanks
You are welcome. Please consider subscribing to the channel. It helps get the videos to the top of the search page. Happy mowing lol.
While rolling it back, the paddle should be parallel with the handle, correct? When I tried this, I kept tightening the adjuster and it still rolled backwards. Eventually ran out of thread and the adjuster separated from the threaded section. Wheels never did lock up. I just put the adjuster back on and loosened it until it was midway or so up the thread, and left it there. But I don't feel I've properly adjusted anything.
Hi Mark, the paddle should be pushed down while pulling the mower backwards as shown around 1:15.
@@Know-How-Now Yes, I had the paddle down (parallel w/handle). The video said "don't engage the smart drive" so I left it locked in the parallel position, without pushing it down with my thumb. Tried it again just now, same result. Oh well, at least when the adjuster came off the threaded section, I was able to put a light coating of grease on the threads to make it easier to turn the next time.
Wish you would make video for HR214 adjustment
Thank you for posting this! Your instructions were very clear and easy to follow. 👍🙂
Of course this is not at you (I just need to vent) but why the 🤬 would engineers design this to be such an involved process!? 🙄 Last lawnmower I had was a Murray (bought in 1999) and it had a belt drive design that never needed adjusting. It also had an auto-adjusting feature that compensated for belt wear. Why this lawnmower could not have been designed in a similar fashion is ridiculous! Honda could have designed this much better because doing it this way is like going back to the 1970s! SMH 😒
No worries about venting. You are not the only one that thinks the process is involved and that the belt should auto-adjust. That's why I made the video, I had the hardest time following the process. My brother was given an almost brand new version of this mower that did not have the drive train. It belonged to an older women and it was too hard to for her to push. He eventually figured out that it was hard to push because there was some sort of bushing/washer in the wheels that apparently was in place so the mower would not easily roll backwards? He removed the part causing the drag and then the mower was easy to push. What were they thinking? Maybe a lawsuit because someone rolled over their foot? I've discovered that this mower also was made to be difficult to pull backwards.
@@Know-How-Now You know you’re probably right; it possibly was a lawsuit or two that drove companies to design some things the way they did. Of course it can be aggravating for people like me and you who exercise good safe working habits as it’s another cumbersome thing we have to deal with. However for the rest of the “Darwin award” winners out there companies HAVE to do that to protect themselves! I can’t blame them either. 🤨
Great teaching video! Thank you!
You are welcome!
I will try using your instructions the next time my HRX217VKA locks up in reverse. The last time I took to Honda Dealer, not cheap repair. I try to do as much of the maintenance my self. I've noticed lately my mower when not running is harder to push forward. Is that caused by the same adjustment? Your videos are very well done, Thank you.
You might try the video I have about Honda Mowers that are hard to pull backwards. I'll put a link to my playlist of mower repair videos below. Please consider a super thanks/donation and subscribing to the channel. I am one of the very few who will spend time answering questions. ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
You're more knowledgeable than I am. I've noticed the belt is slipping, so this is how to fix that problem?
Yes, adjusting the cable will increase the tension on the belt.
My hand lever doesn’t go back up on its own. When I push it down to engage the self propelled action, I have to push it back up to stop the mower from moving. Any idea as to why this is happening?
There is a spring in there, maybe it broke. Check out this video to see what is inside. Let us know how it works out... it might help someone else with the same problem. ua-cam.com/video/jqAshKTFjAo/v-deo.html
Awesome video! Clear instructions and great camera work. Well done. Thank you!
You are welcome, Michael. Thanks for watching the video and taking the time to comment. I have some other Honda repair videos and will be adding more in the future. Here is a link to the playlist of current videos: ua-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJQMsmkVC0GWRiFes7ac4RhD.html
@@Know-How-Now Terrific. Thanks so much.
great video, fixed ours in no time! we have power again! thanks!
You are welcome, Evan. It's my pleasure to help.
Great video Thanks!!! Solved my problem and was very explanatory and well done
You are welcome, thanks for the compliment and for taking the time to comment. It's always nice to hear the video has been helpful.
What do i do if the speed adjuster on the handle just gos round and round? I dont feel no pressure at all.
I'd check the cable to see if it is broken.
I actually had to adjust the cable alot. Im thinking its time for a new belt? It now works :)
If it works, I'd adjust it until it doesn't work. If you think the belt is close to the end of it's life you could buy a belt so when it fails you can change it quickly.
Thank you… worked like a charm!
You are welcome.
Happy I found your channel. I have been trying to find a info on the smart drive paddles and cable. I started to try myself but stopped came upon your channel. I cannot find anything about the smart drive paddles. I went to mow today and that piece just is down and I cannot get it to stick. I can push mow but I managed one strip. Have you heard of this, or what it can be? Thank you for your information. Being a widow I see your channel will help me a lot!!
I'm not clear on your problem/question.
Sorry about that. I reread it and didn’t make sense. As I started to mow, I immediately noticed the smart drive you push down to propel the mower had no pull down tension. It is just loose,
I did take it apart to see if I could see if something is broke. All seem ok the only item I noticed is the pin that is in that clutch the wire had a U showing me the cable is not tight. I left all pieces alone and came to your video. I’m not sure if I need to replace the clutch/propeller or cable. I hope this is better. Thank you!!
Awesome video thanks a lot for your professional help, God bless you.
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.
just save me a bunch of money, lol! Thank you SO much sir. And God bless you for your kindness.
You are welcome, Jeff. It's my pleasure to help. Have a great day.
Wow this is great. Going yo see what else is on the channel
Thanks for checking out the channel. I do my best to upload good quality videos.
How is that Honda Mower doing? Would you consider reliable? Thanks!
It hasn't been too much trouble, though I'm not sure I'd buy another one. I think I read that Honda is stopping production of them. The cons, the wheels wear out quickly, the mower is hard (designed this way) to pull backwards. The deck is getting a little rust on it, though, I don't clean it. The good, it almost always starts on the first pull. The quality of the parts is good. To be fair, I'd have to try similarly priced mowers to really know if it is worth buying. My brother has the non self propelled model and it is very heavy.
Thank you. Worked. Simple and correct.
You are welcome.
This was done with engine on correct?
No it doesn't need to be running to do this, though, after you have adjusted it as shown in the video, you can start it up and make a final check the forward drive speed.
@@Know-How-Now Awesome! Thank you for your response😁
Good job on the video. Worked like a charm! 👍🏻
Glad it helped!
Thank You! I have self propelled again!!
You are welcome, Jeff!
Just an FYI in case anyone reads this. Mine did lock up before the smart control was vertical like 150ish degrees. I still did this procedure and it fixed the issue. So if anyone does that test and thinks this isn't the issue. Try it anyway.
Thanks buddy. Got my self propelled going again!!
You are welcome!
HI, I have a Honda HRR216VYA and I wonder if you have a video on orienting the pinion gears. It’s a little confusing. I have the shop manual and it’s not very clear. Is the orientation the same for the right and left side (as if you’re standing behind it)? The gears have a flat edge to the curved cutouts which I assume allows the gear to move in only one direction. Hence the clicking sound. Should the flat side face the back of the mower for both sides or only one. I hope I explained this clearly, lol. Any help would be appreciated.
I don't have my Honda long enough to have to fix/perform maintenance on the drive train, so no video on that yet. Take a look at this video, it may answer your question: ua-cam.com/video/h-hdIG0UhJU/v-deo.html
Know How Now Thanks! That video was just what I needed. I had found one on Repair Clinic but it only showed replacing a pinion gear on one side. This. one shows reassemble,y on both sides! Subscribed to your channel!
You are welcome. I had looked at the Repair Clinic video and remembered the pinion gears. When needed, I'll be doing some service on those pinion gears & will make a video. Thanks for subscribing.
Great video.. very helpful!! Thanks!!
You are welcome!
Yeah! Thank a lot. One of the first videos I came across and got my mower running like a champ again. Very helpful.
It's my pleasure to help. Way to go on the mower repair.
Very helpful instruction clip and very well produced too. I do have one clarifying question, however: When tightening the cable adjuster, am I doing so until the rear wheels lock up? Or until they START to lock up? You actually use both expressions in your presentation, the first at 2:28 and the second at 2:32. On my mower, there's a 2 or 3 turn difference between starting to lock up and locking up. Thanks.
Do so until the wheels lock up. I could have worded it better. I was saying that it took 11 turns for the wheels to lock up.
What if the wheels are already l;ocked up and the belt is very loose???@@Know-How-Now
now have a video to troubleshoot transmission problems on this mower, here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/BI-ndvqXBtI/v-deo.htmlsi=026ytGGGlyeLwSHY