HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?

Vanousb

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
I found a HRT216TDA self propelled true honda mower for 50.00. Good shape overall, as engine runs on first/second pull and engages transmission so I feel it is worth the money, but needs tuning and work on the self propel (belt or cable adjustment to engage transmission) as it seems to pull, but not with force.

The question is regarding the engine...it surges at all speeds. make idle almost cut out. I am handy, but novice in small engines repair to this point. Any ideas on what needs to be done to smooth the engine out and adjust or improve propel system? Just looking for direction. Thanks
 

magbarn

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Usually surging at all speeds indicates a clogged carb or an air leak. I'd get replacement gaskets for the carb (both sides), then proceed to tear it apart and clean every jet including the main and pilot jet. Sometimes you have remove all rubber/plastic parts on the carb and soak it carb cleaner overnight and then blast it with compressed air.
 

Vanousb

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Usually surging at all speeds indicates a clogged carb or an air leak. I'd get replacement gaskets for the carb (both sides), then proceed to tear it apart and clean every jet including the main and pilot jet. Sometimes you have remove all rubber/plastic parts on the carb and soak it carb cleaner overnight and then blast it with compressed air.

Thanks for the insight. Cleaning air filter and changing plug. Carb is where I was headed. For a novice, would pull and clean/reassemble or just replace be better move?
 

robert@honda

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
FYI, here's a link on how to thoroughly clean a typical Honda carburetor:
How to Clean a Honda Carburetor

Replacing the carb is even easier, and not too expensive for this model The HRT216TDA's carburetor is Honda Part Number 16100-ZM0-803 and has a list price of $15.03. 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
 

magbarn

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Thanks for the insight. Cleaning air filter and changing plug. Carb is where I was headed. For a novice, would pull and clean/reassemble or just replace be better move?

Sheesh for the price that Robert quoted, I'd just put a brand new one with new gaskets. Sounds like $20 or so...
 

Vanousb

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
FYI, here's a link on how to thoroughly clean a typical Honda carburetor:
How to Clean a Honda Carburetor

Replacing the carb is even easier, and not too expensive for this model The HRT216TDA's carburetor is Honda Part Number 16100-ZM0-803 and has a list price of $15.03. 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

Changed oil and plug. Air filter was pretty clean, but cleaned it anyway. Ordering carb tonight. Plan to replace myself with link help. Thanks for the advice (so far as will likely as for more). Any advice on adjusting the self propel is welcome.
 

psycle_1

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Let me know what you find out about the lack of self propel power. I just bought one with the same issue - doesn't pull with much force.

robert@honda: Any tips as to what I need to check?

Thanks!
 

Vanousb

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Sheesh for the price that Robert quoted, I'd just put a brand new one with new gaskets. Sounds like $20 or so...

Ordered new carb for 23.xx form Amazon and got gasket set for 6.50. all said around 35.00 for new. Will put me at 85.00 for the mower and new parts.
 

Vanousb

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Here is what I've been talking about in this thread of post.
 

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Myamada1230

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  • / HRT216TDA self propelled...engine surges at all speeds...fix/tune up thoughts?
Here is what I've been talking about in this thread of post.

I'd say you got a good deal, even putting a new carb on it, great mower

Sent from my iPhone using LMF
 
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