Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda Harmony vapor lock, evail, irratic

Question
I have a Honda Harmony Walk behind mower.  My problem is that when I mowe my lawn and stop I cannt get the mower to always start smoothly again.  It may need to sit 30 minutes and cool off.  It acts like a vapor lock because I can put it on and off choke to keep it running, but it still doesn't run smooth.  This can go on for a long time to keep it running. By not runing smoothly I cann't engage the bladeor if I try the engine will die.  I can restart by using the above system, but it still wont run smoothly.  I have had it into the repair shop several times and they cann't solve the problem.  I have even unscrewed the gas cap to relieve pressure to no evail.  If I dont stop and keep running I have no problems.  

Answer
 Hello Jim:

 When a Mower is Shut Off, you are supposed to Idle for 2 to 3 minutes. This Allows for the Engine Temp to Cool Slightly. When an Air Cooled Engine is Shut Down and Hasnt been Allowed to Idle, the Engine will Heat More than Normal. The Valves could need adjusting. The Valve Lash is Too Close when the Engine Reaches these High Temps causing a Partial loss of Compression which causes the Irratic Running of the Engine. The Valve Lash may need to be Set at .013 Intake and .017 Exhaust. This is Slightly Wider than Honda Suggests, but It does Stop this Problem when the Valve Lash is the Cause. Hope this Helps.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John