i just got a hr214sx given to me as the self propelled feature doesn't work. (not a hydro drive. its a two speed drive that's entirely mechanical) drive shaft disconnected at the engine and had been for awhile, slip joint rusted not allowing it to be re-connected easily, spinning drive shaft manually while holding bar lever did not engage rear wheels. pulled trans and split cases to inspect internals. with the exception of the ring and pinion, everything looks perfect and functions properly. the ring and pinion dont look bad but show wear. i can get the trans to function properly by ensuring the pinion is not allowed to travel towards (probably .006 to .010 in.) the ring center. keeping it 'pre-loaded' (like a car/truck's pinion would be) allows it to function properly. is this typically what fails (the ring and pinion) to cause this style drive to not operate? most everyone seems to love these old mowers (that ive read about). am i crazy thinking of putting appx. $175.00 into it (right now, it's zero)? i'm sure that gear oil was in the trans. anyone know for sure what type, weight, amount it takes? the front wheel bearings are bad. i am thinking of going to the local bearing/seal co. and finding replacements that are of a higher quality than the originals. anyone found these to be one of those 'weird sizes' that you cant find in the aftermarket? sorry for the long post.

mark, i'm a big fan of the old hondas. i've never had a problem with grass building up to a point it stops the engine. are your wheels raised to the highest level? when the grass is extra tall, what i do is take a bungee cord and attach it so the rear door is open and the grass just shoots out, be careful not to be running over foreign objects. wear sturdy pants and safety glasses. you can clamp a mat or something to the cross bar on the handle to deflect the clippings. if you're bagging, make sure your bag is clean.

I have/had a similar problem with my 'new' 216 - the rear wheels don't turn backwards. After a bit of use it seems to be freeing up to the point where I am not bothered by it. Maybe you will have similar luck? If not, you may need a new tranny. The single-speeds are pretty cheap around $50 or so.

HRR2162TDA, will not drive. Belt is good, cable engages transmission but wheels do not turn. Wheel gears are good. Seems like transmission is bad? Any thoughts?