I've noticed a couple of other posts recommending replacing the rings on a Honda mower. I have that same oil smoking problem and am thinking about trying the home repair. I've done some work on small engines before, but just on the carburetor side, never into the cylinder, etc. When the posts say to "hone" the cylinder could someone explain that a little more? What tool do I need for that and how do I do it? Also are there any other tips you would give a first-timer as they take apart (& re-assemble)? Or required tools I'd need (eg - torque wrench, etc)?

Thanks!

 

A cylinder hone is what is needed. There are a few different types, but a standard cylinder hone from an auto parts store is all you need. Pit it in a drill, oil the cylinder with engine oil, put the hone in the cylinder and start the drill. Go at a steady speed, not wide open... and make sure you move the hone back and forth in the cylinder at a speed that creates a "cross hatch" pattern in the cylinder by the honing stones. http://images.hemmings.com/wp-conten...36_resized.jpg
This pic shows a good cross hatch pattern and what you want your cylinder to look like when you're done. This pattern holds oil and breaks in the rings optimally. Don't hone longer than it takes to remove the shiny hard old surface of the cylinder, and don't let the hone sit in one place while spinning. Be sure to hone all the way down and all the way to the top. Be sure to hold the drill aligned with the cylinder, so you aren't putting uneven pressure or pressure from an angle to the cylinder. Keep oiling the hone as needed. When finished, wash the cylinder with brake cleaner, carburetor cleaner, whatever works to get the grit and filings out.

Before honing, check to be sure there isn't much of a ridge at the top of the cylinder. If there is a big ridge (never seen this on a honda), measure the cylinder prior to going any further, in case it's too worn. If there is a small ridge, you can get a ridge reamer and cut it, or if it's really small, it will smooth out with the honing.

Before reassembly, put a ring in the cylinder, push it in a bit with the piston so that it is square with the cylinder, and check the ring end gap. If necessary, file the end of the rings to obtain the proper gap. Check the gap in several places and with every ring. Then install the rings right side up on the piston and stagger the ring end gaps at every 120 degrees so that they aren't lined up with each other before putting the piston in.

 

Hello jfrost5,

If you have little to no ridge as Mr Cheese outlined a ball type hone would be best for de-glazing and re-cross hatching, Just measure your bore and get the appropriate size.





Good Luck