HONDA HRX217HXA - Manual (Page 8)

8
STOPPING THE ENGINE
1. Release the drive clutch and blade control levers.
2. On the HRX217HXA model, move the throttle lever to STOP.
On the HRX217HMA model, turn the key switch to the OFF
position.
3. When the mower is not in use, turn the fuel valve to the OFF
position.
SAFE MOWING PRACTICES
For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground and be careful to
avoid losing your footing and your control of the mower. Keep a firm
grip on the handlebar and walk, never run, with the mower. Be very
careful when mowing uneven or rough ground.
If stuck, do not kick or shove the mower with your foot. Use the
handlebar to control the mower.
Slopes
Mow across slopes, not up
and down. Avoid steep slopes
(more than 20
°
), and be
careful when changing
direction. Mowing on a slope
when the grass is damp or
wet could cause you to slip,
fall, and lose control of the
mower.
Obstacles
Use the side of the mower to
cut close to large obstacles,
such as fences or walls.
Release the drive clutch lever to disengage the drive when mowing
around trees and other obstacles. Push the mower around obstacles
for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over obstacles
embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving, edging,
raised tree roots, etc. Avoid anything that sticks up above the surface
of the lawn.
If a blade hits something or the mower starts to vibrate, stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug cap, and check for
damage (page 10). Striking objects may damage the blades, bend the
crankshaft, and/or break the mower deck or other components.
Vibration usually indicates serious trouble.
The Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 19) does not cover parts
damaged by accident or collision.
Gravel and Loose Objects
Gravel, loose stones, and landscaping material can be picked up by
the mower and thrown many feet with enough force to cause serious
personal injury and/or property damage. The best way to prevent
potential injury from thrown objects is to release the blade control
lever to stop the blades before reaching areas with gravel, loose
stones, or landscaping material.

WARNING
The blades are sharp and spin at high speed.
Spinning blades can cut you severely and can
amputate fingers and toes.
• Wear protective footwear.
• Keep your hands and feet away from the mower
deck while the engine is running.
• Stop the engine before performing any adjustment,
inspection, or maintenance.
BLADE CONTROL LEVER
DRIVE
CLUTCH LEVER
OFF
HRX217HMA MODEL
HRX217HXA MODEL
FUEL
VALVE
OFF