Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda Engine, hose clamps, honda engine

Question
Hi John,

I have a Husqvarna Model 500CRT tiller that has a GC160 Honda engine (GCAHA-1872012-QHA2)on it.  Tiller starts fine but after using it for awhile, the engine starts sputtering and sometimes will cut off.  Other times it will catch back up and continue running.  When it does cut off, there may be a puff of black smoke from the exhaust but not all the time.  It restarts fine and continues to work until it starts sputtering again after a few minutes when using it.  I have fresh gas in the tank and the carb has been cleaned; however, the problem still exists.  Could it be the fuel filter or the fuel pump.  Thanks for your help!

Answer
Hello Dave:

>>Replace All the Spring Style Hose Clamps with Screw Style Clamps on the Fuel System.
>>Since this is a Honda, you can Use this Site Addy; http://www.honda-engines-eu.com/en/welcome.html and Select Spare Parts from the Drop Down Menu of the Service Tab. Now Select "Spare Parts Information.
>>Check the Fuel Pump Diaphragm. If the Diaphragm has a Small Hole in it it will Continue to Pump Gas but will also Pick up Oil at Times and Push the Oil Into the Fuel System and you will get the Puff of Black Smoke you Described.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John