HRX 217

[Flo_rida]

Hello everyone. My 2016 Hrx 217 with a GCV190 motor is beginning to concern me. First off, the oil (Honda SAE30) is turning black fast 1-2 cuts. I live in Florida and mow a half acre with her. I have used it in Rhode Island, Alaska, and now here. Also noticed every time I start it, a puff of black smoke comes out. Also I have noticed when the mower is cold even though it starts up first pull, it blows blue smoke until it is warmed up, usually 15-20 seconds. I have been running 89 non eth with k100 stabilizer. I have been changing the oil religiously all its life. Never had a carb problem besides the wax cart and a weak choke. I recently adjusted the valves because the cam sprocket shaft o ring that the valve cover rests against underneath went bad and started leaking oil. Can anyone tell me what is happening? Her compression is 80-85 psi cold. Is she giving out on me? Is it even worth it to rebuild? Thanks.

 

[Oddjob]

Sounds like you are burning a little oil. If it quickly burns off after start-up and runs strong, I wouldn’t worry about it. It’s possible that you got a little oil in the exhaust side when you messed with the valves. If so, it’ll burn off no problem. It’s 8 years old so it’s possible there is a little wear in the rings or valve guides. But again, if it runs strong and the smoke clears up quickly after start-up, just run the thing. You should be checking your oil level before each use so you will see pretty quickly if you are using excessive oil. I had a Honda commercial with the GCV160, which is very similar to the 190, and it puffed blue smoke on start-up for 15 years, then I gave it to a friend 8 years ago. It still runs great and still puffs blue smoke.

 

[Auto Doc's]

I would try 10W30 and see if the problem clears up. Why? because straight SAE30 has almost no additive or detergents to soften and remove built up carbon deposits from the rings. It may take a couple of oil changes, but I'm sure it will resolve some of your issues.