Honda hrx217 runs rough at idle

[Miles1]

I got a used Honda hrx217 that starts easy but has a rough idle and vibrates more than it should. Runs fairly normal when blades are engaged. The vibration also goes away. Can this really be a carburetor issue?

 

[mechanic mark]

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as you can see there are quite a few HR217's above, need complete numbers. absolutely yes carburetor may be culprit. I would replace spark plug, air & fuel filters, change oil, remove blade & clean, inspect, sharpen & balance before reinstalling lawn mower blade.

 

[Miles1]

I put a new spark plug in it and used it for the first time to mow the yard to see if anything would change while mowing. This model has a blade clutch. Still runs rough on idle with vibrations. The vibration gets better after engaging the blades but still has some. I am hoping it doesn’t have a bent crankshaft. I would think the vibration would get worse with blades engaged. Any other ideas before I clean the carburetor.

 

[mechanic mark]

how to check mower blade for proper balance with a nail - Google Search

 

[SeniorCitizen]

Nearly a hundred years go i learned missing at idle but running mostly correct can be a vacuum leak .

 

[Miles1]

Any other ideas?

 

[bertsmobile1]

Yes the idle circuit on your carb is blocked

 

[Miles1]

I am going to take carburetor apart and clean it. Hopefully that will fix it. I am not too optimistic that will fix it though.

 

[Jenebo]

I had a little different issue with mine where it would surge at when blade clutch was disengaged and run perfect when blades were engaged. I am not much of a carburetor guy (and maybe a bit lazy to take it apart) so before I did anything to the carb, I ran some seafoam through the gas tank for a tank and after 2 tanks the engine runs perfect at idle, and at high speed with and without the clutch engaged. Not sure what thoughts are on Seafoam, but I run it in my first tank of the season for all my power equipment; Honda or other engines.

The other suggestions of balancing the blade and a fresh plug is just good insurance and maintenance regiment as well.

 

[Miles1]

I had a little different issue with mine where it would surge at when blade clutch was disengaged and run perfect when blades were engaged. I am not much of a carburetor guy (and maybe a bit lazy to take it apart) so before I did anything to the carb, I ran some seafoam through the gas tank for a tank and after 2 tanks the engine runs perfect at idle, and at high speed with and without the clutch engaged. Not sure what thoughts are on Seafoam, but I run it in my first tank of the season for all my power equipment; Honda or other engines.

The other suggestions of balancing the blade and a fresh plug is just good insurance and maintenance regiment as well.