Resurrecting a Honda HRX217 mower from the dead. In this video we repair a Honda mower with a seized GCV200 motor and prevent it from going in the landfill. If you have minimal mechanical skill sets and basic hand tools, you too can make this repair.

First step Found Honda HRX217 on curb at neighbors house.

Step 2 Bring mower home and perform a general assessment. Find motor will not turn when pulling cord. This indicates potentially a major issue with the motor cylinder.

Step 3 Check OHV cover make sure it’s not dented in and preventing proper valve movement.

Step 4 Pull off top cover and gain access to main crank bolt.

Step 5 Pull spark plug and spray cylinder with penetrating oil (make sure it is of a flammable formula). Since penetrating oil is flammable and a lubricant it can be safely used in the cylinder.

Step 6 Use a 19mm socket with a small dead low hammer and try to lightly tap crank both CCW and CW. Try not to loosen the crank bolt while performing this step. Very light taps in both directions can and will make enough of an impact to freeing the cylinder. Allowing the penetrating oil to sit for several hours will also help. To have the rings soak evenly you will have to tip the mower back (with the handles towards the ground). Patience is the key. If stubborn, the penetrating oil should eventually help.

Step 7 Once you break the cylinder free, check the condition and level of the motor oil. In my case the oil was very low however it was good enough in quality where I could just top it off to proper level.

Step 8 Check and install the spark plug. Install pull cord mechanism and top cover.

Step 9 Make sure you have good gas, top off gas and make sure your fuel valve is set to open (lever is straight across and not up and down).

Step 10 Set your throttle and pull the cord to start mower. Don’t be surprised if the mower smokes for 20 seconds after start. This is the penetrating oil burning off.