HONDA HARMONY FG100 - Manual (Page 48)

OXYGENATED FUELS
Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines
are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the USA
and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions. If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is
unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement. Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to
confirm the fuel’s contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.
The following are the EPA approved percentages of oxygenates:
ETHANOL -------- (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing
ethanol may be marketed under the name “Gasohol”.
MTBE--------------- (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
METHANOL ----- (methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume, as long as it also
contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline
containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance
problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of your fuel system.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station, or switch to another brand
of gasoline. Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel
containing more than the percentages of oxygenates mentioned above are not covered under warranty.
Carburetor Modifications for High Altitude Operation
At high altitude, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be too rich. Performance will decrease, and
fuel consumption will increase. A very rich mixture will also foul the spark plug and cause hard starting.
High altitude performance can be improved by specific modifications to the carburetor. If you always
operate your tiller at altitudes above 5,000 feet (1,500 meters), have your servicing dealer perform this
carburetor modification.
Even with carburetor modification, engine horsepower will decrease about 3.5% for each 1,000-foot
(300-meter) increase in altitude. The effect of altitude on horsepower will be greater than this if no
carburetor modification is made.
NOTICE
When the carburetor has been modified for high altitude operation, the air-fuel mixture will be too lean for
low altitude use.
Operation at altitudes below 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) with a modified carburetor may cause the engine
to overheat and result in serious engine damage. For use at low altitudes, have your servicing dealer
return the carburetor to original factory specifications.
TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION
FG100 TILLER
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