That is a fair call regarding the process behind proving the diagnosis. I was just trying to understand the possibility of the work done to date (that being the valve job) being a primarily reason behind the engine�s somewhat erratic performance. Whilst some may not agree with my approach that being giving the mower a general tidy up and then looking for further faults, it has worked for me to date. I do it more for the challenge and not for the money. I have a day job which drives me up the wall so fixing small engines is my time.
The sounds made by the engine before the valve repair were most definitely a dull pop and not what I would call a sharp spit. I haven�t been lucky enough to find a Honda at the scrap yard or on gumtree cheap but I should find one eventually. I�d love to find something like Mark �Electric� worked on with you some time ago.
When I removed the inlet valve it was a little burnt but not too damaged in my opinion. It cleaned up quite well before being lapped to the seat.
I didn�t get a change to take the mower for a run last night however I did start it up and it sounded a lot healthier i.e. no splutter on start-up. I won�t be able to confirm for sure the fault is gone until I get a chance to give it a run in the long grass. I should be able to do this over the next day or so.
My mowers are not from customers. I tend to pick them up from tip shops and return the back to serviceable condition. Those which are too far gone I use for parts to repair others. I like the process of addressing one item at a time so I can recognise faults moving forward in a timelier manner.
I agree both repair techniques are valid. This is not a job for me, it is something I enjoy. The fact that I have a hobby that covers its own costs is just a bonus plus buying the odd new toy for the shed helps my ongoing motivation.
The next unfamiliar project I have is a Sanli Lazercut which is just about brand new. Some people knock the Chonda�s but I want to learn more about them before passing judgement. Over the past couple of years no reasonable mower has been unable to be fixed, so this one should be no different.
Once I give it a good test I�ll let you know how it goes.
