There are only two Honda dealers within 50 miles of my home; both selling the equipment for the same price, so I bought from the closest dealer. Glen's Mower and Repair Service had the HHT31 priced at $429+tx. That is higher than Honda's suggested price of $359, but I would easily spend the difference in fuel ($2.36/gal) trying to find a better deal. I figure the machine should last 20 years or more and $21.45/yr is an easier pill to swallow. Heck, I've spent more money on dumber things, that's for sure.
Prior to leaving, the dealer tested the unit which I selected prior to completeing the sale. He filled it with fuel and oil, primed the carb, set the throttle lock, and closed the choke. One short pull of the rope. Then he opened the choke and slid the ignition switch to the "on" position. One more short pull of the rope and raaaaaaaaaappppppppppapapapapapapapappapa the motor was off to the races! I have never witnessed any 2-stroke motor start so easily, this 4-stroke is a dream come true!
Honda build quality is second to none IMHO and I agree that the price up front is high, but in the long run it makes for a wise investment.
Now about the oil, here's a quote from the Honda Power Equipment website FAQ's:
quote:
Can I use synthetic oil in my Honda equipment?
quote:
"Honda engines are developed, tested and certified with petroleum based motor oils as a lubricant. Any motor oil used in our engines must meet or exceed all oil requirements as stated in the owners manual to include the recommended oil change intervals."
The owners manual recommends 10w-30 and 5w-30 depending on ambient air tempuratues, so long as either oil is SL rated. I have now come to the conclusion that 100cc's of M1 or Amsoil would cause no harm to this engine.
BTW- I love this trimmer!