HRX 2014 vs 2015

[akielb]

I finally got to pick up my HRX217HYA from Home Depot yesterday. Today as I was registering it for warranty I notice that my model number is actually HRX2174HYA. I then do a quick search and determine that the number corresponds to the model year.

Should I be mad that I paid retail for a 2014 model? Should I bring it back and say I want a 2015 or a discount? Did they actually make any improvements in the units over the year?

Side note - The closest Honda dealer is 3 hours away from me so HD is my only option for this mower.

 

[javjacob]

Its still a brand new never used mower even if it is a 2014 instead of a 2015. I don't think anything changed? Anymore most changes are just cosmetic anyway. I wouldn't bother with it, just mow away and be happy with the new Honda.

 

[robert@honda]

I finally got to pick up my HRX217HYA from Home Depot yesterday. Today as I was registering it for warranty I notice that my model number is actually HRX2174HYA. I then do a quick search and determine that the number corresponds to the model year.

Should I be mad that I paid retail for a 2014 model? Should I bring it back and say I want a 2015 or a discount? Did they actually make any improvements in the units over the year?

Side note - The closest Honda dealer is 3 hours away from me so HD is my only option for this mower.

Honda mowers don't have model years. They do have running changes now and then, sometimes minor cosmetics, or entire new designs. The HRX217HYA is currently at version K4, and has been in production as a K4 for at least the past three calendar years with no changes. (The original K0 version of the HRX was launched about 11 years ago, FYI). Bottom line is you have the most current version of that model. I own the K2 version (called the HXA) and it is a tremendous machine. Good call registering it promptly, as that will get you an extra +1 year of full factory warranty. :thumbsup:

 

[akielb]

Thanks for the replies. I came to my conclusion of the model years after searching a bit and finding "HRX2175HYA" and it coming up with a bunch of links listing 2015 model.

I'll sit back and be happy with my purchase for the next 20 years. Hopefully!

 

[javjacob]

I'll sit back and be happy with my purchase for the next 20 years. Hopefully!

My 96 HRM215 has been used constantly since new and its still in great condition and doesn't burn any oil or anything. I would bet the motor isn't 1/4th of the way through its life. I don't think a Honda can be worn out in a average persons lifetime. Just do all the maintenance and don't abuse it.

 

[robert@honda]

The HRX217HYA is currently at version K4, and has been in production as a K4 for at least the past three calendar years with no changes.

Oops. That's not correct. :ashamed: As of 5/1/2015, the most-current HRX217HYA is indeed at version K5. The K5 version gains about 1 lb. of weight vs. the K4. Not sure exactly what really changed, as all other specs, features, performance, etc. are identical.

 

[robert@honda]

Okay, found it:

First, understand the K-number (a.k.a. "version number") bumps up when there are significant changes.
Next, when a new model is introduced, the K-number can bump up for all other similar models, so they share the same K-number. This can happen even if there are NOT big changes.

Such is the case with the HRX217HYA. The K4 and K5 versions are essentially the same. The fan cover shape changed, and revised weight specs show the K5 version is a about 1 lb. heavier than the K4. Such minor updates would usually just be documented as a running changes, but instead, all HRX models got a bump to K5.

Honda introduced a new model to the HRX family, the HRX217[K5]VYA, and other HRX models with Smart Drive got updated with Select Drive. These were big enough changes to justify a bump from K4 to K5. Now the remaining HRX siblings, the hydrostatic-drive HYA and hydrostatic-drive/electric start HZA were also bumped to a K5, even though the only change to them was the shape of the fan cover.

 

[Rkeeb]

I just purchased an HRX2175VKA. I wanted the Select drive so I could have a constant top speed, but each time you release the control and re-engage the dial moves a little toward minimum so I have to keep resetting. Is this a design flaw or is there a way to tighten up so dial stays put unless I move it?

 

[robert@honda]

I just purchased an HRX2175VKA. I wanted the Select drive so I could have a constant top speed, but each time you release the control and re-engage the dial moves a little toward minimum so I have to keep resetting. Is this a design flaw or is there a way to tighten up so dial stays put unless I move it?

It should not move around, the knob should stay where it is set. Looking at the shop manual, I can see no bolt/screw/etc. that might keep it in place. There is a curved wave-washer on the tip of the gear (that turns internally when you turn the knob). I've put in an email to our model engineer and tech line guys to see what they can tell me. I believe the wave-washer may be there to put some tension on the gear, but will confirm ASAP.

 

[robert@honda]

Okay, the model engineer confirmed the wave-washer is supposed to keep tension on the gear/shaft as I suspected. A knob that won't stay in position could be due to any number of reasons, and the best course is to have a Honda dealer inspect and evaluate the problem. With eyes and hands on the unit, it will be easier to diagnose and repair. Here's a link to find a servicing Honda dealer in your area:

Find A Honda Dealer

Be sure to pick LAWN MOWERS from the drop-down list and click the SERVICE box when searching...