Honda 60 Hp Gc 190 Manual

							1ENGLISH
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a Honda engine. We want to help you to get 
the best results from your new engi ne and to operate it safely. This 
manual contains information on how to  do that; please read it carefully 
before operating the engin e. If a problem should arise, or if you have 
any questions about your engine,  consult an authorized Honda 
servicing dealer.
All information in this  publication is based  on the latest product 
information available at the time  of printing. American Honda Motor 
Co., Inc. reserves the right to ma ke changes at any time without 
notice and without incurri ng any obligation. No part of this publication 
may be reproduced without written permission.
This manual should be  considered a permanent  part of the engine 
and should remain with  the engine if resold.
Review the instructions provided wi th the equipment powered by this 
engine for any additional inform ation regarding engine startup, 
shutdown, operation, adjustment s or any special maintenance 
instructions.
SAFETY MESSAGES
Your safety and the safety of ot hers is very important. We have 
provided important safety messag es in this manual and on the 
engine. Please read th ese messages carefully.
A safety message alerts you to pote ntial hazards that could hurt you 
or others. Each safety message is  preceded by a safety alert symbol 
B and one of three words, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
Each message tells you what the  hazard is, what can happen, and 
what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.
DAMAGE PREVENTION MESSAGES
You will also see other important me ssages that are preceded by the 
word NOTICE.
This word means:
The purpose of these messages is  to help prevent damage to your 
engine, other property, or the environment.
SAFETY INFORMATION
• Understand the operation of all co ntrols and learn how to stop the 
engine quickly in case of emerge ncy. Make sure the operator 
receives adequate instruction be fore operating the equipment.
• Your engine’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Do  not run the engine without adequate  ventilation, and never run the 
engine indoors.
• The engine and exhaust become ve ry hot during operation. Keep 
the engine at least 3 feet (1 mete r) away from buildings and other 
equipment during operation. Keep  flammable materials away, and 
do not place anything on th e engine while it is running.
CONTENTS
B DANGERYou WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY 
HURT if you dont follow instructions.
B WA R N I N GYou CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY 
HURT if you dont follow instructions.
B CAUTIONYou CAN be HURT if you dont follow 
instructions.
NOTICEYour engine or other property can be 
damaged if you don’t follow instructions.
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
SAFETY MESSAGES  . . . . . . . . . .1
COMPONENT & CONTROL 
LOCATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS  .2
IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO 
GO? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
OPERATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 SAFE OPERATING 
PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE /  MANUAL CHOKE . . . .3
TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE / IGNITION SWITCH 
LEVER
 /MANUAL CHOKE . . . .3
TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE / ENGINE STOP 
SWITCH /
MANUAL CHOKE   . . .4
OIL ALERT® SYSTEM  . . . . . . .4
SERVICING YOUR ENGINE . . . . .4 THE IMPORTANCE OF 
MAINTENANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . .4
MAINTENANCE SAFETY . . . . .4
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE  . .5
REFUELING  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
ENGINE OIL  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 AIR CLEANER . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6
SPARK PLUG  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6
SPARK ARRESTER
(OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT)  . . .  7
STORING YOUR ENGINE . . . . . .  7
TRANSPORTING . . . . . . . . . . . . .  8
TAKING CARE OF 
UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS  . . . .  8
TECHNICAL INFORMATION . . . .  9 SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION   9
CARBURETOR 
MODIFICATIONS FOR HIGH 
ALTITUDE OPERATION . . . . .  9
EMISSION CONTROL 
SYSTEM INFORMATION  . . . .  9
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . .  10
CONSUMER INFORMATION  . .  11 DISTRIBUTOR/DEALER 
LOCATOR INFORMATION . .  11
Honda PUBLICATIONS . . . . . 11
CUSTOMER SERVICE 
INFORMATION  . . . . . . . . . . .  11
DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED 
WARRANTIES . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
EMISSION CONTROL 
SYSTEM WARRANTY . . . . . .  13
INTERNATIONAL 
WARRANTY. . . . . .  LAST PAGE
OWNER’S MANUAL
MANUEL DE L’UTILISATEUR
MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO
IPC
B   WARNING:     B
The engine exhaust from this product 
contains chemicals known to the State of 
California to cause canc er, birth defects, or 
other reproductive harm.
GC160 • GC190
© 2003–2009 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. —All Rights Reserved\
31Z8A023
00X31-Z8A-0230EM5 POM31Z8A023
IPC. 35000.2009.09
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS
ESPAÑOL
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							2ENGLISH
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATION BEFORE OPERATION CHECKS 
IS YOUR ENGINE READY TO GO?
For your safety, and to maximize the service life of your equipment, it 
is very important to take a fe w moments before you operate the 
engine to check its condition. Be sure  to take care of any problem you 
find, or have your servicing dealer  correct it, before you operate the 
engine.
Before beginning your preoperation  checks, be sure the engine is 
level and the throttle leve r (ignition switch lever or engine stop switch) 
is in the STOP position.
Always check the following items  before you start the engine:
1. Fuel level (see page 5).
2. Oil level (see page 6).
The Oil Alert
® system (applicable engine  types) will automatically 
stop the engine before the oil leve l falls below safe limits. However, 
to avoid the inconvenience of  an unexpected shutdown, always 
check the engine oil level before startup.
3. Air cleaner (see page 6).
4. General inspection: Check for fl uid leaks and loose or damaged 
parts.
5. Check the equipment po wered by this engine.
Review the instructions provided  with the equipment powered by 
this engine for any precautions  and procedures that should be 
followed before engine startup.
OPERATION 
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS 
Before operating the engine for th e first time, please review the 
SAFETY INFORMATION  section on page 1 and the  BEFORE 
OPERATION CHECKS  above.
For your safety, do not operate the  engine in an enclosed area such 
as a garage. Your engine’s exha ust contains poisonous carbon 
monoxide gas that can collect rapi dly in an enclosed area and cause 
illness or death. 
Review the instructions provided wi th the equipment powered by this 
engine for any safety precautions that  should be observed with engine 
startup, shutdown or operation.
Do not operate the engine  on slopes greater than 20°.
STARTER 
GRIP
SPARK PLUG
OIL FILLER CAP/
DIPSTICK
MUFFLER
AIR 
CLEANER
FUEL 
TANK
THROTTLE 
LEVER (gray)
CHOKE ROD
MUFFLER 
DEFLECTOR
(optional)
IGNITION SWITCH 
LEVER (red)
Used on engines with a 
non-adjustable throttle 
lever.
Used on engines with 
an adjustable throttle 
lever.
ENGINE 
STOP 
SWITCH
CHOKE ROD
FUEL 
FILLER 
CAP
ENGINE CONTROL TYPES
OIL DRAIN 
BOLT
TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE / MANUAL CHOKE
TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE /  IGNI
TION SWITCH LEVER / MANUAL CHOKE
TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE / ENGI NE STOP SWITCH / MANUAL CHOKE
CHOKE ROD
BWA R N I N G
Improperly maintaining this engi ne, or failure to correct a 
problem before operation,  can cause a malfunction in 
which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always perform a preoperati on inspection before each 
operation, and correct any problem.
BWA R N I N G
Exhaust contains poisonous ca rbon monoxide gas that can 
build up to dangerous  levels in closed areas. Breathing 
carbon monoxide can cause  unconsciousness or death.
Never run the engine in a clos ed or even partially closed 
area where people may be present.
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							3ENGLISH
TYPE 1: MANUAL THROTTLE / MANUAL CHOKE 
Starting The Engine
1. Pull the choke rod to the CLOSED position (cold 
engine).
2. Move the throttle lever (gray)  away from the SLOW 
position, about 1/3 of the way 
toward the FAST position.
Some engine applications 
use a remotely-mounted 
throttle control rather than 
the engine-mounted throttle 
lever shown here.
3. Pull the starter  grip lightly until 
resistance is felt, then pull 
briskly.
NOTICE
Do not allow the starter grip to 
snap back against the engine. 
Return it gently to prevent 
damage to the starter.
4. If the choke rod was pulled to th e CLOSED position to start the 
engine, push it to the OPEN positi on as soon as the engine warms 
up enough to run smoothly.
Throttle Setting
Position the throttle control 
lever (gray) for the desired 
engine speed. For best engine 
performance, it is 
recommended the engine be 
operated with the  throttle in the 
FAST (or high) position.
Stopping The Engine 
1. Move the throttle lever (gray)  to the SLOW position.
2. Allow the engine to idle for a  few seconds, then move the 
throttle lever to the STOP 
position.
TYPE 2: FIXED THROTTLE / IGNITION SWITCH LEVER / MANUAL CHOKE
Starting The Engine 
1. Pull the choke rod to the  CLOSED position (cold 
engine).
2. Move the ignition switch lever  (red) to the ON position.
Some engine applications use 
a remote-mounted ignition 
switch rather than the engine-
mounted ignition switch lever 
shown here.
3. Pull the starter grip lightly until  resistance is felt, then pull 
briskly.
NOTICE
Do not allow the starter grip to 
snap back against the engine. 
Return it gently to prevent 
damage to the starter.
4. If the choke rod was pulled to  the CLOSED position to start the 
engine, push it to the OPEN positi on as soon as the engine warms 
up enough to run smoothly.
5. The engine speed is preset on this type.
Stopping The Engine
Move the ignition switch lever 
(red) to the OFF position.
CHOKE ROD
CLOSED
OPEN
SLOW FAST
THROTTLE 
LEVER (gray)
STARTER GRIP
FAST
SLOW
THROTTLE 
LEVER (gray)
STOP
FAST
THROTTLE 
LEVER (gray)
CHOKE ROD
CLOSED
OPEN
IGNITION SWITCH 
LEVER (red)
  ON
STARTER GRIP
  OFF
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							4ENGLISH
TYPE 3: FIXED THROTTLE / ENGINE STOP SWITCH /MANUAL CHOKE
Starting The Engine
1. Pull the choke rod to the  CLOSED position (cold 
engine).
2. Move the engine stop switch  to the ON position.
Some engine applications 
use a remote-mounted 
ignition switch rather than 
the engine-mounted engine 
stop switch shown here.
3. Pull the starter  grip lightly until 
resistance is felt, then pull 
briskly.
NOTICE
Do not allow the starter grip to 
snap back against the engine. 
Return it gently to prevent 
damage to the starter.
4. If the choke rod was pulled to  the CLOSED position to start 
the engine, push it to the OPEN 
position as soon as the engine 
warms up enough to run 
smoothly.
5. The engine speed is preset on this type.
Stopping The Engine
Move the engine stop sw itch to the OFF position.
OIL ALERT® SYSTEM
The Oil Alert system is designed to  prevent engine damage caused by 
an insufficient amount of oil in t he crankcase. Before the oil level in 
the crankcase can fall below a safe  limit, the Oil Alert system will 
automatically stop the engine [the thro ttle lever (ignition switch lever) 
will remain in a run position].
If the engine stops and will not re start, check the engine oil level 
(page 6) before troubleshooting in other areas.
SERVICING YOUR ENGINE   
THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE 
Good maintenance is essential for  safe, economical and trouble-free 
operation. It will also  help reduce pollution.
To help you properly care for your  engine, the following pages include 
a maintenance schedule, routine in spection procedures, and simple 
maintenance procedures using basi c hand tools. Other service tasks 
that are more difficult, or require  special tools, are best handled by 
professionals and are normally perf ormed by a Honda technician or 
other qualified mechanic.
The maintenance schedule applies to  normal operating conditions. If 
you operate your engine under seve re conditions, such as sustained 
high-load or high-temperature operat ion, or use in unusually wet or 
dusty conditions, consult your se rvicing dealer for recommendations 
applicable to your in dividual needs and use.
Remember that an authorized Hond a servicing dealer knows your 
engine best and is fully equipped  to maintain and repair it.
To ensure the best quality and  reliability, use only new Honda 
Genuine parts or their equivalen ts for repair and replacement.
Maintenance, replacement, or  repair of the emission control 
devices and systems may be perf ormed by any engine repair 
establishment or individual, using  parts that are “certified” to 
EPA standards.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY 
Some of the most important safety  precautions follow. However, we 
cannot warn you of every concei vable hazard that can arise in 
performing maintenance. Only yo u can decide whether or not you 
should perform a given task.
Safety Precautions
• Make sure the engine is off befo re you begin any maintenance or 
repairs. This will eliminate several potential hazards:
– Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust .
Be sure there is adequate ve ntilation whenever you operate 
the engine.
– Burns from hot parts .
Let the engine and exhaust sy stem cool before touching.
– Injury from moving parts .
Do not run the engine unle ss instructed to do so.
• Read the instructions before yo u begin, and make sure you have 
the tools and skills required.
• To reduce the possibility of fire  or explosion, be careful when 
working around gasoline. Use on ly a nonflammable solvent, not 
gasoline, to clean parts. Keep ciga rettes, sparks and flames away 
from all fuel related parts.
CHOKE ROD
CLOSED
OPEN
  ON
ENGINE 
STOP  
SWITCH
OFF
STARTER GRIP
BWA R N I N G
Improper maintenance, or fa ilure to correct a problem 
before operation, can cause  a malfunction in which you 
can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspec tion and maintenance 
recommendations and schedules  in this owner’s manual.
BWA R N I N G
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and 
precautions can cause you to be  seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this 
owner’s manual.
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							5ENGLISH
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE  
(1) Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
(2) Change engine oil every 25 ho urs when used under heavy load 
or in high ambient temperatures.
(3) These items should be serv iced by an authorized Honda 
servicing dealer, unless you ha ve the proper tools and are 
mechanically proficient. Refer  to the Honda shop manual for 
service procedures.
(4) For commercial use, log hours  of operation to determine proper 
maintenance intervals.
Failure to follow this maintenan ce schedule could result in non-
warrantable failures.
REFUELING 
This engine is certified to operate  on unleaded gasoline with a pump 
octane rating of 86 or higher. 
Refuel in a well-ventilated area wi th the engine stopped. If the engine 
has been running, allow it  to cool first. Never refuel the engine inside a 
building where gasoline fumes can reach flames or sparks.
You may use regular unleaded gasoline  containing no more than 10% 
ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol by vo lume. In addition, methanol must 
contain cosolvents and corrosion inhi bitors. Use of fuels with content 
of ethanol or methanol greater th an shown above may cause starting 
and/or performance problems. It ma y also damage metal, rubber, and 
plastic parts of the fuel system . Engine damage or performance 
problems that result from using a fu el with percentages of ethanol or 
methanol greater than shown abo ve are not covered by warranty.
If your equipment will be used on  an infrequent or intermittent basis, 
please refer to the fuel section of the  STORAGE chapter (page 7) for 
additional information rega rding fuel deterioration.
NOTICE
Fuel can damage paint and some type s of plastic. Be careful not to 
spill fuel when filling your fuel tank . Damage caused by spilled fuel is 
not covered under the  DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY  (see 
page 11).
Never use stale or contaminated ga soline or oil/gasoline mixture. 
Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
1. Remove the fuel tank cap.
2. Add fuel to the bottom of the  fuel level limit in the neck of 
the fuel tank. Do not overfill. 
Wipe up spilled fuel before 
starting the engine.
3. After refuelin g, tighten the 
fuel tank cap.
a. Non-tether type: Tighten the cap securely.
b. Tether type: Tighten the cap until it 
clicks.
Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) 
away from the fueling source 
and site before starting the 
engine
ITEM Perform at every 
indicated month or 
operating hour 
interval, whichever 
comes first. REGULAR SERVICE PERIOD (4)
P a g e        
Before 
E a c h     
U s e           First     
M o n t h                   or
5 Hrs Every 3   
Months          or
25 Hrs    Every 6 
Months  or
50 Hrs Every   
Ye a r   or 
100 Hrs  Every   
T w o          
Ye a r s     
or 250  Hrs 
Engine oil Check
O6
Change OO (2) 6
Air filter Check
O
6
Clean O (1)
Replace O
Spark plug Check-adjust
O
6
Replace O
Spark arrester Clean O7
Idle speed Check-adjust O(3)Shop 
manual
Fuel tank and filter Clean O(3)Shop 
manual
Valve clearance Check-adjust O(3)Shop 
manual
Fuel tube Check Every 2 years
       (Replace if necessary)  (3)Shop 
manual
Combustion 
chamber Clean After every 250 hours
 (3)Shop 
manual
BWA R N I N G
Gasoline is highly flammable  and explosive, and you can 
be burned or seriously  injured when refueling.
• Stop engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away.
• Refuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
MAXIMUM FUEL LEVEL
FUEL TANK 
CAP
TETHER
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							6ENGLISH
ENGINE OIL 
Recommended Oil 
Use 4-stroke motor oil that meets 
or exceeds the requirements for 
API service category SJ or later 
(or equivalent). Always check the 
API service label on the oil 
container to be sure it includes 
the letters SJ or later (or 
equivalent).
SAE 10W-30 is recommended for  general use. Other viscosities 
shown in the chart may be used wh en the average temperature in 
your area is within the indicated range.
Oil Level Check 
1. Check the oil with the  engine stopped and level.
2. Remove the oil filler cap/ dipstick and wipe it clean.
3. Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick in to the oil filler neck as shown, but 
do not screw it in, then remo ve it to check the oil level.
4. If the oil level is near or below th e lower limit mark on the dipstick, 
fill with the recommended oil to  the upper limit mark (bottom edge 
of the oil fill hole). Do not overfill.
5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
Oil Change 
Drain the engine oil when the engine  is warm. Warm oil drains quickly 
and completely.
1. Place a suitable container  next to the engine to catch 
the used oil.
2. Remove the oil filler cap/ dipstick, the oil drain plug 
and washer.
3. Allow the used oil to drain  completely, then reinstall 
the drain plug and new 
washer. Tighten the drain 
plug securely.
Please dispose of used 
motor oil in a manner that is co mpatible with the environment. We 
suggest you take used oil in a  sealed container to your local 
recycling center or service station  for reclamation. Do not throw it 
in the trash or pour it on  the ground or down a drain.
4. With the engine in a level positi on, fill to the upper limit mark 
(bottom edge of the oil fill  hole) on the dipstick with the 
recommended oil (see page 6) Do not overfill.
NOTICE
Running the engine with a low oi l level can cause engine damage. 
This type of damage  is not covered by the  DISTRIBUTOR’S 
LIMITED WARRANTY.
5. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick securely.
AIR CLEANER 
A dirty air cleaner will restrict air fl ow to the carburetor and cause poor 
engine performance. Inspect the fi lter each time the engine is 
operated. You will need to clean t he filter more frequently if you 
operate the engine in  very dusty areas.
NOTICE
Operating the engine without an air fi lter, or with a damaged filter, will 
allow dirt to enter the engine, caus ing rapid engine wear. This type of 
damage is not covered under the  DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED 
WARRANTY  (see page 11).
Inspection   
1. Press the latch 
tabs on the top of 
the air cleaner 
cover, and remove 
the cover. Check 
the filter to be sure 
it is clean and in 
good condition.
2. Reinstall the filter  and air cleaner 
cover.
Cleaning    
1. Tap the filter several times on a  hard surface to remove dirt, or 
blow compressed air [not exceeding  [30 psi (207 kPa, 2.1 kg/cm²)] 
through the filter from the clean  side that faces the engine. Never 
try to brush off dirt. Brushing wi ll force dirt into the fibers.
2. Wipe dirt from the air cleaner bo dy and cover using a moist rag. Be 
careful to prevent dirt from enteri ng the air duct that leads to the 
carburetor.
SPARK PLUG    
Recommended Spark Plug: NGK BPR6ES
The recommended spark plug is th e correct heat range for normal 
engine operating temperatures.
NOTICE
Incorrect spark plugs can cause engine damage.
For good performa nce, the spark 
plug must be properly gapped and 
free of deposits.
1. Disconnect the cap from the  spark plug, and remove any dirt 
from the spark plug area.
2. Use the proper size spark plug  wrench to remove the spark 
plug.
3. Inspect the spark plug. Replace it if  damaged, badly fouled, if the 
sealing washer is in poor condition, 
or if the electrode is worn. 
4. Measure the electrode gap with a  suitable gauge. The correct gap is 
0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.70 ~ 0.80 mm). 
If adjustment is needed, correct the 
gap by carefully bending the side 
electrode.
-20 20 30 40°C -10 0 10 40 60 100°F
80
020
30
5W-30 • 10W-30
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
OIL FILLER CAP/
DIPSTICK
UPPER LIMIT
LOWER LIMIT
OIL FILL HOLE
(bottom edge)
OIL FILLER 
CAP/
DIPSTICK
DRAIN 
PLUG
SEALING
WASHER
AIR 
DUCT
AIR CLEANER 
BODY FILTER
AIR 
CLEANER 
COVER
LATCH TABS
TABS
SPARK PLUG 
WRENCH
0.028 ~ 0.031 in 
(0.70 ~ 0.80 mm)
SEALING 
WASHER
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							7ENGLISH
5. Install the spark plug carefully, by hand, to avoid cross-threading.
6. After the spark plug is seated, ti ghten with the proper size spark 
plug wrench to compress the washer.
7. When installing a new spark plug,  tighten 1/2 turn after the spark 
plug seats to compress the washer.
8. When reinstalling the original spar k plug, tighten 1/8 - 1/4 turn after 
the spark plug seats to  compress the washer.
NOTICE
A loose spark plug can become  very hot and can damage the 
engine. Overtightening the spark  plug can damage the threads in 
the cylinder head.
9. Attach the spark plug cap to the spark plug.
SPARK ARRESTER (optional equipment) 
The spark arrester my be standard or  an optional part, depending on 
the engine type. In some areas, it  is illegal to operate an engine 
without a spark arrester. Check loca l laws and regulations. A spark 
arrester is availabl e from authorized Honda servicing dealers. 
The spark arrester must be serv iced every 100 hours to keep it 
functioning as designed.
If the engine has been runnin g, the muffler will be hot. Allow it to cool 
before servicing the spark arrester.
Removal
1. Remove the three 
6 mm bolts from the 
muffler protector, and 
remove the muffler 
protector.
2. Remove the 4 mm screw  from the spark arrester, 
and remove the spark 
arrester from the muffler.
Cleaning and Inspection
1. Use a brush to remove carbon deposits from the spark arrester 
screen. Be careful not to damage 
the screen. Replace the spark 
arrester if it has breaks or holes.
2. Install the spark arrester in the  reverse order of removal.
STORING YOUR ENGINE
Proper storage preparation is es sential for keeping your engine 
trouble-free and looking good. The fo llowing steps will help to keep 
rust and corrosion from impair ing your engine’s function and 
appearance, and will make the engine  easier to start when you use it 
again.
CLEANING
If the engine has been running, allow it  to cool for at least half an hour 
before cleaning. Clean all exterior  surfaces, touch up any damaged 
paint, and coat other ar eas that may rust with a light film of oil.
NOTICE
Using a garden hose or pressure  washing equipment can force water 
into the air cleaner or muffler openi ng. Water in the air cleaner will 
soak the air filter, and water that pass es through the air filter or muffler 
can enter the cylinder, causing damage.
FUEL 
NOTICE
Depending on the region where yo u operate your equipment, fuel 
formulations may deteriorate and ox idize rapidly. Fuel deterioration 
and oxidation can occur in as litt le as 30 days and may cause damage 
to the carburetor and/or fuel system . Please check with your servicing 
dealer for local stor age recommendations.
Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorat e in storage. Deteriorated gasoline 
will cause hard starting, and it leav es gum deposits that clog the fuel 
system. If the gasoline in your engine  deteriorates during storage, you 
may need to have the carburetor,  and other fuel system components, 
serviced or replaced.
The length of time that gasoline ca n be left in your fuel tank and 
carburetor without causing functio nal problems will vary with such 
factors as gasoline blend, your  storage temperatures, and whether 
the fuel tank is partially or completely  filled. The air in a partially filled 
fuel tank promotes fuel dete rioration. Very warm storage 
temperatures accelerate fuel deteri oration. Fuel problems may occur 
within a few months, or even less if  the gasoline was not fresh when 
you filled the fuel tank.
Fuel system damage or engine perf ormance problems resulting from 
neglected storage preparation are not covered under  the 
DISTRIBUTOR’S LIMITED WARRANTY  (see page 11 ).
You can extend fuel storage life by  adding a gasoline stabilizer that is 
formulated for that purpose, or  you can avoid fuel deterioration 
problems by draining the fuel tank and carburetor.
Adding A Gasoline Stabilizer
When adding a gasoline stabilizer, fill  the fuel tank with fresh gasoline. 
If only partially filled,  air in the tank will promote fuel deterioration 
during storage. If you keep a contai ner of gasoline for refueling, be 
sure that it contains only fresh gasoline.
1. Add gasoline stabilizer following  the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. After adding a gasoline stabilize r, run the engine outdoors for 10 
minutes to be sure that trea ted gasoline has replaced the 
untreated gasoline  in the carburetor.
3. Stop the engine.
SPARK 
ARRESTER 
IDENTIFICATION 
PLATE MUFFLER 
PROTECTOR
6 mm BOLT (3) 4 mm SCREW
MUFFLER
SPARK 
ARRESTER
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Draining The Fuel Tank And Carburetor   
1. Use a siphon pump (commercially available) and siphon the fuel 
out of the fuel tank into  an approved gasoline container.
2. Place an approved gasoline cont ainer below the carburetor, and 
use a funnel to avoid spilling fuel.
3. Loosen the carburetor drain screw.  and drain the carburetor into an 
approved gasoline container. Afte r draining is completed, tighten 
the carburetor drain screw. 
ENGINE OIL
1. Change the engine oil  (see page 6).
2. Remove the spark plug  (see page 6).
3. Pour 1 - 2 teaspoons (5 - 10 cc) of clean engine oil 
into the cylinder.
4. Pull the recoil starter several  times to distribute the oil.
5. Reinstall the spark plug.
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
If your engine will be stored with  gasoline in the fuel tank and 
carburetor, it is important to re duce the hazard of gasoline vapor 
ignition. Select a well-ventilate d storage area away from any 
appliance that operates with a flame,  such as a furnace, water heater, 
or clothes dryer. Also avoid any ar ea with a spark-producing electric 
motor, or where power tools are operated.
If possible, avoid storage areas wi th high humidity, because that 
promotes rust and corrosion.
Keep the engine level in  storage. Tilting can cause fuel or oil leakage.
With the engine and exhaust system  cool, cover the engine to keep 
out dust. A hot engine and exhaust  system can ignite or melt some 
materials. Do not use sheet plasti c as a dust cover. A nonporous 
cover will trap moisture around  the engine, promoting rust and 
corrosion.
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE   
Check your engine as described in the  BEFORE OPERATION 
CHECKS  section of this m anual (see page 2).
If the fuel was drained during storag e preparation, fill the tank with 
fresh gasoline. If you keep a contai ner of gasoline for refueling, be 
sure it contains only fresh ga soline. Gasoline oxidizes and 
deteriorates over time , causing hard starting.
If the cylinder was coated with oi l during storage preparation, the 
engine will smoke briefly at startup. This is normal.
TRANSPORTING
Keep the engine level when transpor ting to reduce the possibility of 
fuel leakage.
Review the instructions provided wi th the equipment powered by this 
engine for any procedures that shou ld be followed for transporting
TAKING CARE OF UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS 
ENGINE WILL NOT START
ENGINE LACKS POWER
BWARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive, and you can 
be burned or seriously in jured when handling fuel.
• Stop engine and keep heat,  sparks, and flame away.
• Refuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
SIPHON PUMP
(COMMERCIALLY 
AVAILABLE)
FLOAT BOWL
DRAIN SCREW
Possible Cause Correction
Choke open. Pull the choke to the CLOSED  position unless the engine is warm.
Ignition switch OFF. • Move the throttle lever to the  SLOW or FAST position (page 3).
• Move the ignition switch lever to  the ON position (page 3).
• Move the engine stop switch to  the ON position (page 4).
Engine oil level low (Oil Alert model s). Fill with the recommended oil to the 
proper level (page 6).
Out of fuel.  Refuel.
Bad fuel; engine stored without 
treating or draining gasoline, of 
refueled with bad gasoline. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor 
(page 8). Refuel with fresh 
gasoline.
Spark plug faulty, fouled, or improperly 
gapped. Replace the spark plug
(page 6).
Spark plug wet with fuel (flooded 
engine). Dry and reinstall spark plug. Start 
engine with throttle lever in FAST 
position (choke in OPEN position).
Fuel filter clogged, carburetor 
malfunction, ignition malfunction, 
valves stuck, etc. Take engine to an authorized 
Honda servicing dealer, or refer to 
shop manual.
Possible Cause Correction
Filter clogged. Clean or replace the filter (page 6).
Bad fuel; engine stored without 
treating or draining gasoline, of 
refueled with bad gasoline. Drain the fuel tank and carburetor 
(page 8). Refuel with fresh 
gasoline.
Fuel filter clogged, carburetor 
malfunction, ignition malfunction, 
valves stuck, etc. Take engine to an authorized 
Honda servicing dealer, or refer to 
shop manual.
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TECHNICAL INFORMATION
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION 
Record the engine serial 
number in the space 
below. You will need this 
information when 
ordering parts and when 
making technical or 
warranty inquiries. 
Engine serial number: __ __ __ __ __ – __ __ __ __ __ __ __
Engine type: ___ ___ ___ ___
Date Purchased: ___ / ___ / ___ 
Radio Frequency Interference Label (Canada)
This engine complies with Canadi an radio frequency interference 
regulations, ICES-002. 
CARBURETOR MODIFICATIONS FOR HIGH ALTITUDE 
OPERATION
At high altitude, the standard carb uretor air-fuel mixture will be too 
rich. Performance will de crease, and fuel consumption will increase. A 
very rich mixture will also foul th e spark plug and cause hard starting. 
Operation at an altitude that differs  from that at which this engine was 
certified, for extende d periods of time, ma y increase emissions.
High altitude performance can be im proved by specific modifications 
to the carburetor. If you always oper ate your engine at altitudes above 
5,000 feet (1,500 meters), have yo ur servicing dealer perform this 
carburetor modification. This engine,  when operated at high altitude 
with the carburetor modifications fo r high altitude use, will meet each 
emission standard throug hout its useful life.
Even with carburetor modification , engine horsepower will decrease 
about 3.5% for each 1,000-foot (3 00-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 modifi ed 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 me ters) with a modified carburetor 
may cause the engine to overheat  and result in serious engine 
damage. For use at low altitudes, ha ve your servicing dealer return 
the carburetor to original factory specifications.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM INFORMATION
Source of Emissions
The combustion process produces  carbon monoxide, oxides of 
nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Control  of hydrocarbons and oxides of 
nitrogen is very important because,  under certain conditions, they 
react to form photochemical smog wh en subjected to sunlight. Carbon 
monoxide does not react in th e same way, but it is toxic.
Honda utilizes appropriate air/fuel  ratios and other emissions control 
systems to reduce the emissions of  carbon monoxide, oxides of 
nitrogen, and hydrocarbons. Addition ally, Honda fuel systems utilize 
components and control technol ogies to reduce evaporative 
emissions.
The U.S., California Clean  Air Act, and Environment 
Canada
EPA, California, and Canadian regu lations require all manufacturers 
to furnish written instructions  describing the operation and 
maintenance of emission control systems.
The following instructions and procedur es must be followed in order to 
keep the emissions from your H onda engine within the emission 
standards.
Tampering and Altering
Tampering with or altering the em ission control system may increase 
emissions beyond the legal limit.  Among those acts that constitute 
tampering are:
• Removal or alteration of any part  of the intake, fuel, or exhaust 
systems.
• Altering or defeating the govern or linkage or speed-adjusting 
mechanism to cause the engine to operate outside its design 
parameters.
Problems That May Affect Emissions 
If you are aware of any of the foll owing symptoms, have your engine 
inspected and repaired by  your servicing dealer.
• Hard starting or stal ling after starting.
• Rough idle.
• Misfiring or backfiring under load.
• Afterburning (backfiring).
• Black exhaust smoke or  high fuel consumption.
Replacement Parts
The emission control systems on yo ur Honda engine were designed, 
built, and certified to conform wi th EPA, California, and Canadian 
emission regulations. We reco mmend the use of Honda Genuine 
parts whenever you have maintena nce done. These original-design 
replacement parts are manufactured  to the same standards as the 
original parts, so you can be confid ent of their performance. The use 
of replacement parts that are not of  the original design and quality 
may impair the effectiveness of  your emission control system.
A manufacturer of an af termarket part assumes  the responsibility that 
the part will not adversely affe ct emission performance. The 
manufacturer or rebuilder of the part  must certify that use of the part 
will not result in a failure of th e engine to comply with emission 
regulations.
Maintenance
Follow the maintenance schedule on page 5. Remember that this 
schedule is based on the assumption  that your machine will be used 
for its designed purpose. Sustaine d high-load or high-temperature 
operation, or use in unusually wet  or dusty conditions, will require 
more frequent service.
SERIAL 
NUMBER 
AND TYPE 
LOCATION
SERIAL NUMBER TYPE
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Air Index
An Air Index Information hang tag/label is applied to engines certified 
to an emission durability time  period in accordance with the 
requirements of the Califo rnia Air Resources Board.
The bar graph is intended to provide  you, our customer, the ability to 
compare the emissions performance  of available engines. The lower 
the Air Index, the less pollution.
The durability description is intend ed to provide you with information 
relating the engine’s emission durabi lity period. The descriptive term 
indicates the useful li fe period for the engine’s emission control 
system. See your  EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY  
(page 13) for additional information
. 
SPECIFICATIONS
GC160 
GC190  Tuneup Specifications 
Quick Reference Information    
Wiring Diagrams 
Descriptive Term Applicable 
to Emissions Durability 
Period
Moderate 50 hours (0–80 cc inclusive) 125 hours (greater than 80 cc)
Intermediate 125 hours (0–80 cc inclusive) 250 hours (greater than 80 cc)
Extended 300 hours (0–80 cc inclusive) 500 hours (greater than 80 cc)
1000 hours (225 cc and greater)
Length x Width x Height 13.3 x 14.5 x 13.0 in  (337 x 369 x 331 mm)
Dry weight 25 lb (11.5 kg)
Engine type  4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement
[Bore x Stroke] 9.8 cu-in (160 cm
3)
[2.5 x 2.0 in (64 x 50 mm)]
Net power *
 (in accordance with SAE J1349) 4.6 hp (3.4 kW) at 3,600 rpm
Max. Net torque *
(in accordance with SAE J1349) 6.9 ft-lb (9.4 N•m) at 2,500 rpm
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58  l)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8  l)
Cooling system  Forced air
Ignition system  Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation  Counterclockwise
Length x Width x Height 13.6 x 14.5 x 13.0 in  (345 x 369 x 331 mm)
Dry weight 29 lb (13.2 kg)
Engine type  4-stroke, overhead cam, single cylinder
Displacement
[Bore x Stroke] 11.4 cu-in (187 cm
3)
[2.7 x 2.0 in (69 x 50 mm)]
Net power *
 (in accordance with SAE J1349) 5.2 hp (3.9 kW) at 3,600 rpm
Max. Net torque *
(in accordance with SAE J1349) 8.3 ft-lb (11.2 N•m) at 2,500 rpm
Oil capacity 20 oz (0.58  l)
Fuel tank capacity 0.48 gal (1.8  l)
Cooling system  Forced air
Ignition system  Transistorized magneto
PTO shaft rotation  Counterclockwise
* The power rating of the engine indicate d in this document is the net power 
output tested on a production engine fo r the engine model and measured in 
accordance with SAE J1349 at 3600  rpm (net power) and 2500 rpm (max. 
net torque). Mass production engines  may vary from this value. Actual 
power output for the engine instal led in the final machine will vary 
depending on numerous factors, incl uding the operating speed off the 
engine in application, environmen tal conditions, maintenance, and other 
variables.
ITEM SPECIFICATION MAINTENANCE
Spark plug gap 0.028 ~ 0.031 in (0.7 ~ 0.8 mm)Refer to page 6.
Valve clearance 
(cold) IN: 0.15 ± 0.04 mm 
EX: 0.20 ± 0.04 mm See your authorized 
Honda dealer
Other specifications  No other adjustments needed.
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline with a pump octane  rating of 86 or higher (page 5).
Engine Oil Type SAE 10W-30, API  SJ or later, for general 
use. Refer to page 6.
Carburetor Idle Speed 1,400 ± 150 rpm
Spark plug Type BPR6ES (NGK)
Maintenance Before each  useCheck engine oil level. Refer to page 6.
Check air filter. Refer to page 6.
First 5 hours Change engine oil. Refer to page 6.
Subsequent Refer to the ma intenance schedule on 
page 5.
SPARK
PLUG IGNITION 
COIL
IGNITION 
SWITCH
OIL LEVEL 
SWITCHOIL 
ALERT
UNIT
WITH OIL ALERT
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