I am not Jack either but,

Posted By: Dave Edwards P165 Wits' End
Date: 7/14/08 10:26a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Jack - question about Honda 2HP (Brian N.)

When I first purchased and picked up my 2 hp Honda I was driving a Miata and had to remove the tiller and throttle cable in order to fit it into the trunk. I apparently did not get the tiller and cable re-installed correctly and had a problem with too high of RPM. This resulted in the engine running a little too fast such that the prop was engaged although turning slowly. In any case it is possible to mess up the throttle cable such that it binds. It was not a big problem but rather an inconvenience. I took it back into the dealer for service the next year and they discovered the problem with the cable and corrected it. I suggest that you take it back to the dealer. As I recall there is an adjustment on the carb or throttle linkage in order to adjust the engine speed somewhat. You want to be careful that you don't get the RPM too high such that the prop is always engaged. My engine has been very reliable but I have always felt that it was somewhat cold blooded when first started. After it runs for a minute or two it is okay. The challenge is to get it warmed up without the prop engaging if you know what I mean. Prior to launching I start the engine and let it run for a minute. That way once it is in the water it is ready to go. Also be careful when you change the oil not to overfill by even a small amount. If you overfill the engine, it may run but will cut out at higher speeds. A rule of thumb is that you want the oil visible in the lower half of the little window. Another characteristic of the 2 hp Honda is that before attempting to start it you will want to vent the tank and open the tank shut off valve. It is best to give it a minute of two for the gas to get from the tank to the carb. When I first got the motor I would open the vent and the valve and pull the cord. Of course it would not start until the gas filled the carb. Now I open the vent and valve, do something else for a minute or two, and then pull the cord. It usually starts on the first of second pull characteristic Hondas. Hope this helps.