MowerMark
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Mar 1, 2014
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Re: Thank you, Robert.
Thank you. Since you term those MicroCut blades as an "update", and another member here prefers them, I'd like to try them.
• Are the MicroCut twin blades available from Home Depot or Orchard Supply Hardware, and if so, what are the part numbers ?
• A threshold question is: Will the use of Honda's MicroCut blades VOID the mower's warranty ?
I couldn't find a blade diagram in the product literature accompanying my new mower, so your diagram was very useful.
Nice to know about this model number coding, but for the consumer this letter inserting only gives confusion. Suggest that Honda either disclose to the consumer this date code or revision nomenclature, or disclose to the consumer to ignore the extra character and/or relabel their products to have a separate date code, leaving model numbers identical. Another way to better handle this confusing point is to indicate in your manual "If your model number starts with HRR216 and ends with VKA, then ……… ". Ignorant consumers look for exact model number matches, and will not always forgive an extra unexplained letter or number.
• How does a homeowner know when the blades need sharpening ? The smooth to ragged edge of the cut grass ? Feeling the blade edge with the finger ?
Your specific mower was never tested with MicroCut blades, so the engineers did not approve them for use with your exact mower. FYI, later versions of the HRR models (with a "9" in the model name) were updated to use the MicroCut blades. Unofficially, they would probably work just fine with your older HRR model, but again, not technically approved by Honda.
Direct from Honda, the blades meet all the production specs and quality control checks. While a pro could easily make them "more sharp" that won't necessarily improve cut or finish performance. Remember, too sharp and the blades will get dull very fast. Too dull and cut quality will suffer. The factory edge is the best compromise between quality and sharpening interval.
Honda mowers do not have model years, but use a code called a K-number to designate running changes. Your mower is a "K7" and is currently at the "K9" version. Honda does not always include the K-number in all ad, print, and web names. The K-number is more for Honda internal use, and you should use the frame serial number to locate any parts, service, documents, etc. for your exact model.
Should be correct, if I'm reading your serial number right. Double-check and you'll see a link that has a manual for your serial number.
There is a full blade remove / install procedure with illustrations in every Honda mower manual. Shop manuals have more details, but the basic procedure is always there.
Thank you. Since you term those MicroCut blades as an "update", and another member here prefers them, I'd like to try them.
• Are the MicroCut twin blades available from Home Depot or Orchard Supply Hardware, and if so, what are the part numbers ?
• A threshold question is: Will the use of Honda's MicroCut blades VOID the mower's warranty ?
I couldn't find a blade diagram in the product literature accompanying my new mower, so your diagram was very useful.
Nice to know about this model number coding, but for the consumer this letter inserting only gives confusion. Suggest that Honda either disclose to the consumer this date code or revision nomenclature, or disclose to the consumer to ignore the extra character and/or relabel their products to have a separate date code, leaving model numbers identical. Another way to better handle this confusing point is to indicate in your manual "If your model number starts with HRR216 and ends with VKA, then ……… ". Ignorant consumers look for exact model number matches, and will not always forgive an extra unexplained letter or number.
• How does a homeowner know when the blades need sharpening ? The smooth to ragged edge of the cut grass ? Feeling the blade edge with the finger ?