Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda mower, honda mower, gas tank

Question
I have a Honda Harmony II, model HRT216SDA. Suddenly, the engine will run for a couple of minutes and die out. If I choke it,it will restart and run for a few more minutes then die out again. The warmer it get, the longer it will run before dying out. Before it dies, it will backfire a few times.....When it runs...it runs good...1)Does the mower have a fuel filter...I did try cleaning the carb (off the engine) with spray carb cleaner and added stab-bil to the fresh fuel, but that did not help........Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hello Paul:

This Sounds a Lot like the Timing Belt has Jumped a Tooth or the Valves need Resetting. There is a Cut Off Petcock Assembly in the Fuel Line. Check the Gas Tank Cap and Ensure it is Venting the Tank Properly. Is the Gas Free Flowing to the Carburetor? These Should Not be the Cause, but it Does Not Hurt to Check Anyway. The "Runs Longer the Hotter the Engine Gets" is the Giveaway for the Belt or the Valves. The Carburetor Would be the Same or Close to the Same Run Time. It Would Not Get Better the Hotter the Engine Gets. I Suggest you Purchase a Service Manual for the Engine. The Service Manual Will Give you Step by Step Instructions on How to Service the Valves and Timing Belt and You can Perform Just About Everything you Would Ever want to Do To This Engine. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John