Honda’s HS520 snowblower is designed to last for years or even decades after purchase, but it must be properly maintained each year to ensure that the engine stays in peak condition for a long time to come. That often means regular oil changes, careful refueling, and a comprehensive inspections or replacement of parts like the auger and the scraper blade. Homeowners looking to protect their investment and prolong the life of their Honda HS520 should be sure to follow a few maintenance tips and guidelines to reduce the need for repairs and maximize the value of their snowblower.
Always Ensure Safety During Maintenance Work
Snowblowers, like all kinds of other power equipment models, come with a large number of safety mechanisms designed to protect operators during active use of the equipment. When it comes to maintenance, however, safety is largely the job of the person doing the work. To safeguard against unwanted injuries or serious equipment problems, be sure to only operate on the snowblower when the engine is off. Never work on hot equipment that has recently been actively used. Instead, wait at least until the engine has cooled down to a barely warm temperature.
Always perform maintenance in an open space, rather than an enclosed area like a shed or garage. Make sure that extra precaution is used when handling gasoline near the snowblower, especially if the engine is still warm, in order to reduce the risk of sparks, flames, and serious damage or injury.
The Maintenance Schedule: A Primer on Taking care of the HS520 Snowblower
Before each use of the equipment, Honda recommends checking both the oil level and the blower’s scraper blade. Engine oil should be changed after the first month or 25 hours of use when the equipment is new. After that first month, Honda recommends an annual oil change be performed at the start of each winter season. The start of each season should also see homeowners checking spark plug, auger paddles, scraper blade, and clutch lever free play.
After 100 hours of use, check the spark plug and adjust both the engine speed and the valve clearance. After 150 hours of use, check the spark plug, clean the fuel tank, and clean the HS520’s air filter. The fuel line should be checked and potentially replaced every two years.
Be Sure to Inspect the Auger Paddles
Auger paddles do a lot of work while the snowblower is actively engaged and clearing a snowy space, and they’ll be one of the first parts to show signs of wear or minor damage. For this reason, regular inspection of the auger paddle is recommended by Honda to ensure better snow clearing, more efficient operation, and better long-term durability.
If, upon inspection, the distance between the auger paddle and the metal auger support is greater than 5/8″, the paddle should be replaced. If signs of damage are showing, immediately replace any affected auger paddles to safeguard against more dramatic damage to the snowblower throughout the remaining winter months.
Scraper Blade Concerns: Inspection, Adjustment, and Replacement
One of the most common maintenance concerns with a Honda HS520 snowblower, or any other snowblower on the market, is the condition and integrity of the scraper blade. Honda recommends regular checking of this blade before each use, and for good reason. A bad or damaged blade can cause further damage to the engine, risk operator injury, and damage the surface being cleared of snow throughout the winter.
Before inspecting the blade, be sure to switch the fuel valve to “off” and allow the equipment to cool down. Upon inspection, ensure that the blade is meeting the ground evenly and without risking the stability of the equipment. If it’s not, be sure to adjust the blade and restore perfect alignment with the ground. If the blade is damaged, or if it cannot be sufficiently adjusted, it needs to be replaced with an OEM part made by Honda.
What to Keep in Mind When Refueling
In addition to checking the oil level with each use of the snowblower, Honda owners should make sure to double-check the amount of fuel in the engine before they head out to clear away wintry precipitation. Generally, the fuel tank should be topped off before each use of the HS520 snowblower.
When refueling the equipment, Honda recommends a No-Spill gas can in order to prevent environmental damage and reduce the risk of injury. Refueling should always take place in an open area, with a cool engine, on a hard and non-absorbent surface.
For Parts and More, HondaLawnParts.com Can Help
With a great selection of Honda snowblowers and all of the best OEM parts to serve homeowners’ needs throughout the winter, HondaLawnParts.com is a great way to ensure that equipment is perfectly maintained and ready for anything. Be sure to visit the site and use the parts lookup tool to find the right replacements for any model, engine, or accessory.
