Understanding Water Pump Terminology

wmp20_pe_imglgWhat is a head, and why is it important? What causes cavitation, and why is it bad? If you’re looking into buying or fixing a water pump, some terms that are used can be confusing. This guide will walk you through meanings and specifications so you can make the right choices when buying, operating, and maintaining a pump.

The Parts of a Water Pump

Consumer water pumps nearly always use an impeller to move water. This is a rotating disc with vanes on it that resembles a fan.

The impeller is held inside a housing called a “volute” or “volute case.” It’s designed to direct water toward and away from the impeller. A tight fit ensures pressure can be maintained. Continue reading

Honda GCV 160 Maintenance Guide

powerstroke-pressure-washer-gcv160Honda’s GCV 160 can be found in everything from pressure washers to lawn mowers, but whatever your motor is powering, it still requires the same maintenance. Here’s what you need to know to keep your Honda small engine running reliably for years to come.

Maintenance Schedule

Before each use: Check the air cleaner and the oil level.
First month or 5 hours of operation: Change the oil.
Every season or 25 hours: Clean the air cleaner
Every season or 50 hours: Change the oil, check the spark plug, and inspect the flywheel brake pad.
Every 100 hours: Check the blade, brake, clutch, and spark arrester (if equipped.)
Every 200 hours: Replace the air cleaner and spark plug.
Every two years: Check the fuel line for cracks and damage. Continue reading

Honda GCV 160 Operation and Troubleshooting

gcv160_imgmedHave a new Honda GCV 160? This guide will walk you through starting and stopping this engine, as well as address common issues, no matter what it may be powering.

Before Use

Fuel – Make sure there is fresh gasoline in the tank. This engine can use fuel blended with up to 10% ethanol (E10) or 5% methanol. Do not fill past the bottom of the filler neck.

Oil – Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it into the filler neck without screwing it in. Pull it out and check for oil. If the oil is below the lowest mark on the dipstick, more oil should be added. Honda recommends 10W30 motor oil for this engine. Continue reading

Don’t Make These 7 Mistakes With Your Honda Generator

eb3000_pe_imglgThe name “Honda” is synonymous with quality, especially when it comes to generators. However, even the best made generator can be unreliable or even dangerous if not used correctly. Here’s what you shouldn’t do with your generator, whether you have a small portable model, a home backup system, or a portable power source for work sites.

1. Use It Indoors

It may seem convenient to put your generator in a place where the outlets are within easy reach, but doing so can be lethal. When internal combustion engines burn fuel, they create carbon monoxide. This odorless gas latches onto your red blood cells, preventing them from carrying the oxygen your body needs to function. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, generators are the cause of 85% of carbon monoxide poisoning deaths outside of fires. Make sure your generator sits outside, away from buildings, and use extension cords to get the power to where you need it. Continue reading