how do i put my smartdrive handle back on?

[Leumcn0]

Did you ever get your handle put back together? I'm having the same issue.

 

[robert@honda]

Did you ever get your handle put back together? I'm having the same issue.

Be sure to disconnect the cable from the transmission, or you won't be able to get enough slack in the cable to insert the crosspin correctly.

 

[Leumcn0]

Be sure to disconnect the cable from the transmission, or you won't be able to get enough slack in the cable to insert the crosspin correctly.

Thanks Robert. I ended up just wedging a piece of wood under the deck where the cable connected to relieve the tension on the cable and it worked perfect. The other issued I am having is with the Blade Control (yellow handle). The blade with only stayed engaged if I hold the right side of the mower handle while mowing. As soon as I let off with my right hand the blade disengages. Hmmm frustrating. Any advice????

 

[robert@honda]

Thanks Robert. I ended up just wedging a piece of wood under the deck where the cable connected to relieve the tension on the cable and it worked perfect. The other issued I am having is with the Blade Control (yellow handle). The blade with only stayed engaged if I hold the right side of the mower handle while mowing. As soon as I let off with my right hand the blade disengages. Hmmm frustrating. Any advice????

Share your full serial number with me, and I'll check the bulletin list and troubleshooting documents; the sticker is on the back of the mower deck:

 

[Leumcn0]

Share your full serial number with me, and I'll check the bulletin list and troubleshooting documents; the sticker is on the back of the mower deck:

I had my wife send them to me. Not sure if they make sense:

HRT216S3DA and MZCG-7279019

Thanks for any input you have.

 

[robert@honda]

Not sure if they make sense:

HRT216S3DA and MZCG-7279019

Thanks for any input you have.

The "HRT..." is the model name, but the HRT216S3DA does not have a blade clutch (yellow button).

Now the "MZCG-" is the exact serial number, but it matches to a HRR2163VXA, which does have a blade clutch, so we'll go with that one.

Anyway, that serial number is in the range of some mowers that were part of a Service Bulletin issued back in September 2006; the issue is the blade control may release even though the customer does not let go of the the lever. The problem is likely due to wear of a pivot cam inside the blade control...the fix is to replace it with an updated design. For mowers still under warranty, this is done at no charge...FYI, it appears your mower was probably purchased in May/June 2006 (2-year warranty).

Any Honda dealer can do this job, for probably 1 hour or less of labor. If you prefer to DIY, you want to get Honda part number 75180-VL0-B00, and drop me a PM and I can send you instructions. Please include your name and address, and I will update the registration database to show you as the owner. Honda asks for this in the unlikely event there is ever a product safety recall and needs to contact you.

Google any part number to find a Honda Dealer selling it online, or use this link to find a Honda Dealer in your area: Find A Honda Dealer

 

[Leumcn0]

The "HRT..." is the model name, but the HRT216S3DA does not have a blade clutch (yellow button).

Now the "MZCG-" is the exact serial number, but it matches to a HRR2163VXA, which does have a blade clutch, so we'll go with that one.

Anyway, that serial number is in the range of some mowers that were part of a Service Bulletin issued back in September 2006; the issue is the blade control may release even though the customer does not let go of the the lever. The problem is likely due to wear of a pivot cam inside the blade control...the fix is to replace it with an updated design. For mowers still under warranty, this is done at no charge...FYI, it appears your mower was probably purchased in May/June 2006 (2-year warranty).

Any Honda dealer can do this job, for probably 1 hour or less of labor. If you prefer to DIY, you want to get Honda part number 75180-VL0-B00, and drop me a PM and I can send you instructions. Please include your name and address, and I will update the registration database to show you as the owner. Honda asks for this in the unlikely event there is ever a product safety recall and needs to contact you.

Google any part number to find a Honda Dealer selling it online, or use this link to find a Honda Dealer in your area: Find A Honda Dealer

Thank you Robert for all of the information and help. I ordered a new part.

 

[steinauf]

Okay, here are the drawings I have for your mower; hope this helps.

FYI, there is an update kit available to convert the SmartDRIVE control to an adjustable version, with five different positions for the grip.

You can order it from any Honda dealer. Refer to Honda Lawn Mower Service Bulletin #75, "Smart Drive Grip Improvement" and the kit itself is part number 04401-VL0-B00 "Clutch Grip Kit" and the MSRP is $21.00. Find a dealer at this link:

Find a Honda Dealer

I've found part 06554-VH7-305 which seems to be identical. Do you know if these part kits are compatible? My plan was to order this for $28 on Amazon and attempt to install. I'm having the same issue fitting the roller pin back into the slots of the handle

My mower is a HRR2163VXA (MZCG-7297017). I see lots of similar model numbers (with or without a K before the 3, or with/without the 3 entirely) which all seem to be referring to the same unit. It's pretty confusing.

 

[steinauf]

this video seems helpful. I've got the first version of the smart drive handle, which is a little different, but i'll give it another shot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImPe3vdtfrY

 

[steinauf]

Ok. I got the replacement adjustable handle, and installed it. The only problem is that now it sticks in the on position, which isn't very safe. I'll try taking it apart and greasing it more as I didn't have much available at first (figured whatever was already on the parts would be enough). If anyone has any other ideas I'd appreciate it.