Articles

How To Navigate Shallow Waters in East Palatka, FL

Boating in shallow water can be dangerous, especially if the water depth quickly changes. Honda Marine wants to help you be prepared for navigating shallow waters.  




Know Your Boat’s Draft

The draft measures how much a boat is under water, starting from the lowest part of the boat. A boat can ride higher or lower in the water depending on how much weight is carried on a boat. The draft information is usually found in the owner’s manual.




Check the Tides

Always check the tide schedule so you don’t get stranded in a sandbar or shallow waters, until the tide comes back. 




Use A Depth Finder

Use a depth finder to find the bottom surface of the water. By knowing the bottom depth, you’ll know where the dangerously shallow water is, so you don’t ground your boat. Also have charts on your boat, in case you need them. 




Monitor the Color of the Water  

Monitor the water for major changes in the color. Brown water usually means shallow water over reef or rocks. Shallow water on some islands, like the Bahamas, has light turquoise water. 




Keep It Slow

If you think you’re approaching shallow waters, run slowly and stay off plane. 



Contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 for Honda Marine Jet Outboards, accessories and servicing.

   

   

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Hurricane Preparation Tips

Hurricane Preparation Tips 

Atlantic hurricanes can strike between June 1 and November 30. Even if there is no hurricane in the forecast, it’s best to make sure that you and your family are prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm. Learn more about hurricane preparation tips on getting supplies, preparing to evacuate and using a Honda generator if there is a power outage from the hurricane.


Have An Emergency Plan

Discuss an emergency plan with your family. The plan can include getting extra supplies now, making copies of important documents, preparing for a power outage for 7+ days and preparing for an evacuation. Also include supplies for pets and older relatives who may need your help. The Red Cross has some additional tips on keeping your family safe during and after a hurricane.  


Pack A Travel Bag

Having a travel bag pre-packed with clothing, shoes and essentials for each person in your family, will save time, if you have to evacuate for a hurricane. Pack toiletries, baby wipes, liquid soap, prescriptions, an extra phone charger, flashlight and batteries, a small AM/FM radio, cash, food and beverages. Remember to bring personal documents, including copies of your birth certificates, social security cards, insurance cards, medical records and a will, in a waterproof bag. 


Use A Honda Generator

Generators provide backup electricity when there is a power outage from a hurricane. The Honda Generator EU2200i can provide power for cell phones, computers, televisions and refrigerators. The Honda Generator EU2200i also has inverter technology which provides clean power for computers. Have extra fuel to keep your Honda generator running for at least three days and a heavy duty power cord that is long enough to access the generator. 


Generators belong outside and should never be run in a basement or garage, even if windows or doors are open. There are some safety issues to be aware of when using generators:  beware of carbon monoxide and electrocution. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and kills people every year, while sending others to the emergency room. Always consult your owner’s manual for other safety concerns and more information. If you are not sure which generator you’ll need, Honda has a great tool to help you calculate the wattage you need. Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 is here to answer your questions and help with preparing for a hurricane and your generator needs.



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Boating Gifts For Dad

The right boating accessories and equipment can go a long way towards making your time on the water, more enjoyable. We’ve created a list of boating gifts for dads because a great day on the water begins with Honda.

Honda Marine iST® Premium Top Mount Control

The iST® Premium Top Mount Control is available in single and multiple engine applications. These control heads feature master trim control on the throttle handle and individual controls on the head unit for dual engines. They also offer slow mode for increased throttle control while maneuvering at slow speeds and trolling mode for incremental RPM adjustments at any speed.

                     

Honda Marine Propeller

Choosing the right propeller is one of the easiest methods to optimize a boat’s performance. Honda’s Propeller Selector Tool recommends a propeller based on your boat hull type and boating style. The best method to find the right propeller for your boat is to try it out before buying with an on the water test. Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 is ready to provide the highest level of service and expertise to assist you with your propeller needs.


Honda Marine Gauge

Honda Marine has a variety of gauges that display engine RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, vessel speed and much more. The NMEA 2000® HD-4 Multi-function Color Display Gauge automatically detects and displays the most relevant information available on a series of pre-set and user-customizable data pages.


Honda Marine Sunbrella Outboard Cover

The Honda Marine outboard covers are available in a custom designed fit for each outboard model. The Honda Marine engine covers are made of marine blue Sunbrella fabric, to protect the outboard from moisture and UV exposure.

                                  

Gift Card

If you’re not sure which boating gift to buy for your boating enthusiast, give your dad a gift card from Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.


For more gift ideas for the boating enthusiast, contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.

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Top 12 Most Important Boating Safety Tips in East Palatka, FL

May has a lot of fun holidays: Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. A favorite holiday is Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day (May 15) because it promotes the importance wearing a life jacket when you’re on the water. Keep your friends and family safe by following these boating safety tips.  



Before You Go Boating        

Schedule Maintenance For Your Honda Outboard

Our dealers and staff go through training and receive updates to tune-up their knowledge of the entire Honda outboard line. Honda Marine authorized dealers are ready to provide you with the highest level of service. Contact Big Boys Play Toys to schedule maintenance for your Honda outboard.


View Boating Safety Videos

Did you know that most boaters involved in accidents have never taken a boating safety course? The National Safe Boating Council provides online boating safety videos that teach basic navigation rules of boating. The Boat U.S. Foundation offers a free online boating safety course, including a free online boating safety course for each state.


Wear A Life Jacket

All boats must have a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for every passenger on a boat, by law. Some states require children to wear a life jacket at all times. Try on the life jacket before buying it. Make sure it is the right fit for your height and weight and that it has a snug fit. Auto and manual inflatable life jackets require maintenance. Clip a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) onto each life jacket. Make sure that there are life jackets for all dogs who are on your boat. Rough water, bad weather or fatigue can potentially be dangerous for dogs, when they are swimming.

  

Fire Extinguishers

U.S. Coast Guard approved, marine-type fire extinguishers are required on boats where a fire hazard could be expected from the engines or fuel system. Check your fire extinguishers at least once a year to ensure they are properly charged, stored and undamaged. Make sure that everyone on your boat knows where it is and how to use it.


Pack Emergency Supplies

Pack emergency supplies on your boat and make sure that everyone on your boat knows where they are located: flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, VHF radio with a hail or public address function, a waterproof whistle and mirror that can be used to call for help and ropes. Ropes can be used to pull someone who has fallen overboard or for securing your boat to a dock.


Carbon Monoxide Monitors 

Carbon monoxide poisoning could unexpectedly knock anyone on the boat, unconscious. Make sure there’s a carbon monoxide monitor in every confined space on your boat. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless poisonous gas which is emitted by all combustion engines and onboard motor generators.


Check the weather forecast

Check the weather forecast for storms, lightning and high winds. The marine forecast includes wind direction and speed, wave height, precipitation predictions and storm warnings. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides marine weather forecasts through the National Weather Service. 


Download U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Mobile App

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has a Boating Safety Mobile App with information that is most frequently requested by boaters. Features of the app include: state boating information, file a float plan, free boating safety check requests, navigation rules, the latest weather reports from the closest National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather buoys, request emergency assistance and much more.


File A Float Plan

It’s very important to file a float plan with a friend or relative, for every boating excursion. The Float Plan should have detailed information regarding the location of where you’re boating and the time you are planning to return.


Protect Against Propeller Strikes

Make sure all passengers are accounted for before starting the engine. Wear your emergency cut-off switch at all times. When passengers are in the water, ask one person to propeller watch. 



While You Are Boating

Don’t Boat Under the Influence

Alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. The U.S. Coast Guard data shows that in boating deaths involving alcohol use, over half of the victims capsized their boats and/or fell overboard. It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence (BUI) of alcohol or drugs in every state. This law pertains to all boats, from canoes and rowboats to the largest ships. Consider these alternatives to using alcohol while boating: take bottled water, sodas, iced tea or lemonade in a cooler and plenty of food and snacks.  


Follow Navigation Rules

The Navigation Rules for vessels establish actions for boaters to take, to avoid a collision. The Navigation Rules are available in any boating supply store. It is mandatory that a copy of the Navigation Rules be kept aboard all vessels over 39.4 feet (12 meters) in length. Use the USCG Boating Safety Mobile app while you are boating.


Enjoy the boating lifestyle and remember that a safe boating experience is the best boating experience.


Refer to the Honda owner’s manual for additional maintenance information. Contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 for servicing and Honda Marine Accessories.

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Benefits of Using Genuine Honda Parts

Your Honda Power Equipment will work at peak performance using genuine Honda parts for snow blowers, snow throwers, generators, lawn mowers, tillers, trimmers and pumps.

 

Built For Honda 

Genuine Honda parts are designed by Honda for each Honda Power Equipment model. Only genuine Honda parts can maintain the original operating specifications of your Honda and offer a perfect fit and finish every time. When the time comes for you to service, repair or enhance your Honda, don’t settle for an imitation.


Honda’s Best Quality

Genuine Honda parts are manufactured to strict quality standards for an exact fit and precise operation. When you choose Genuine Honda parts, you can count on the highest quality standards imposed by Honda engineers. After-market parts cannot guarantee the same levels of precision or quality. Even the smallest gaps can make a big difference.


Reliability

Only Genuine Honda parts are supported by Honda nationwide. Each part works in conjunction with other parts to produce top performance. Many non-genuine parts may claim to be reliable, but they are not produced to meet Honda’s engineering and material specifications. Compromise one part and you may unknowingly compromise a whole system.


Don’t Compromise Performance

By choosing Genuine Honda parts, you won’t compromise your unit’s performance and safety. Each Genuine Honda part is precisely designed and rigorously tested by Honda. This process helps ensure that each part will function at its optimum performance level while providing the durability and reliability that you expect from Honda.


Big Boys Play Toys Service Department

The service department has expert Honda Technicians who are trained to do maintenance, storage prep and repairs. Honda also has a wide selection of Genuine Honda parts and accessories. Please contact Big Boys Play Toys with any questions about Genuine Honda parts or to schedule a service appointment.


Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 is here to answer your questions about the Genuine Honda parts for Honda generators, snow blowers, snow throwers, lawn mowers, tillers, trimmers and pumps.

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Benefits of Reading a Honda Owner’s Manual

Do you remember how exciting it was to buy your new Honda Marine outboard or Honda Power Equipment? Have you read the Honda’s Owner’s Manual? The Honda Owner's Manual was written for your benefit, so you can get the best results from your Honda.


Online Registration

If you have registered your new Honda, great job! If you still need to register your Honda Marine outboard or Honda Power Equipment, click HERE to register. Some of the newer Honda Owner's Manuals have a QR code that can be scanned to register your Honda.


Safety

The safety information is in several forms: 

- Instructions

- Safety messages

- Damage prevention messages

The safety information is extremely important because you will or can be killed or seriously hurt if you don't follow the instructions. 


Operations

The operating procedures provide important information and tips on how to get the most out of your Honda equipment.


Maintenance Schedule

When your Honda product needs scheduled maintenance, remember that Honda Marine and Honda Power Equipment servicing dealership personnel are specially trained in servicing Honda Marine outboards and Honda Power Equipment.


Serial Number

Check the Honda Owner's Manual for the serial number location on your Honda equipment. Then write the serial number and the purchase date, in the Honda Owner's Manual. This will save time when referencing the serial number for future maintenance or warranty.


Warranty Policy

Read the Honda warranty information to fully understand what is covered by the warranty and your responsibilities of ownership.


For questions about your Honda or the Honda Owner’s Manual, contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.


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Winter Boating Tips

Boating in the winter can be fun and exhilarating. Colder weather requires some additional preparation prior to the boating excursion. We’ve created a list of tips for safe boating in the winter.

                         

Schedule Maintenance

Check your Honda Owner’s Manual for maintenance and safety information. Contact Big Boys Play Toys with questions or to schedule a service appointment.


Bring Extra Clothing, Blankets and Towels

Be prepared for the shock of sudden immersion and incapacitating effects of cold water. Make sure that each person brings an extra change of clothing. Store the clothing, blankets and towels in a waterproof container. 


File A Float Plan

File a float plan with the U.S. Coast Guard via the USCG Boating Safety mobile app. Share the float plan with a reliable relative or friend. Make sure that he/she knows who to call if you do not return home by a specific time. 

                    

Emergency Communication Devices

Carry emergency communication devices (VHF radio, cell phone) and signaling devices (emergency locator beacon, GPS and visual distress signals) on the operator of the boat. 


Dress Properly

Wear layers of clothing, gloves and a hat. A dry suit or a wetsuit are also popular choices for boating in the winter.


Wear A Life Jacket

Make sure that there is a life jacket for each person on the boat. Every person, including the operator of the boat, should wear a life jacket, at all times.


Re-Boarding Device

Make sure the boat has a re-boarding device (ladder or foot sling) that can be used by a person overboard.


Engine Cut-Off Device

Solo operators should always attach an engine cut-off device.


Double Check Weather

Double check the weather conditions and forecast prior to the boating excursion. 

                                  

For questions about preparing your boat for winter boating, contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.

 

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How To Make Your Boat Faster

There’s nothing like the feeling of boating and pushing the throttle forward, as your boat cuts through the water. Big Boys Play Toys wants to share some tips to optimize the amount of power on your boat to make your boat faster.                         


Upgrade the Propeller

One of the easiest ways to increase the speed of your boat is to upgrade the propeller. Changing an aluminum propeller to a stainless steel propeller should provide an increase of 3 MPH. Honda Marine has a Propeller Selector Tool that guides you to the proper propeller for your boat hull type and boating style.                                    


Reduce Weight In Boat

Reducing the weight in your boat can increase the speed. Three ways to reduce the weight are:

• Remove unnecessary gear and supplies

• Remove extra seats that are not used

• Empty the water tank


Blueprinting For Speed

Return the hull of your original boat to the manufacturer’s original shape and design. Over time, the boat hull will begin to warp and change shape which will create some drag and limit the top speed. Blueprinting can add between 5 and 10 MPH to the boat speed.


Remove Marine Creatures From Bottom of Boat

Marine creatures and barnacles on the bottom of the boat will create drag which decreases the speed of your boat. Removing the marine creatures and barnacles from the bottom of the boat will increase the boat speed. 


If you have questions about a new Honda Marine propeller, contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.

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Holiday Gifts For A Boater

We’ve created a list of holiday gifts for the boating enthusiast because a great day on the water begins with Honda.


Premium Top Mount Control

Offered in single and multiple engine applications, these control heads feature master trim control on the throttle handle and individual controls on the head unit for dual engines.

                     

Honda Marine Sunbrella Outboard Cover

The Honda Marine outboard covers are available in a custom designed fit for each outboard model. The Honda Marine engine covers are made of Sunbrella fabric, to protect the outboard from moisture and UV exposure.

                            

Honda Marine Gauge

Honda Marine has a variety of gauges that display engine RPM, coolant temperature, fuel level, vessel speed and much more.                    


Low Water Intake Screen

Low water intake screen allows the outboard to be run at a higher position without drawing air into the cooling system through the top of the exposed screen. 

                                  

Gift Card

If you’re not sure which boating gift to buy for your boating enthusiast, give him/her a gift card from Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.


For more gift ideas for the boating enthusiast, contact Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510.

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Tips For Hosting A Fun Tailgate in East Palatka, FL

You’ve been counting down the days for game day. The invitations have been sent and it’s time to plan your tailgate. Kick off the fun with by making the most of your tailgate with these tips for hosting an epic tailgate.



Show Your Team Spirit

Show your team spirit by decking out your tables with a table cloth, paper plates, cups and napkins with your favorite team. Accent the table with pom poms and team pennants.



Plan the Game Day Menu

Plan your game day menu in advance. If your time is limited, then consider ordering food from local grocery store or restaurant. If you are going to grill the food, clean the grill before game day and make sure that there is plenty of ice for the coolers for the food. Decorate some team inspired cookies, brownies or cupcakes for dessert with sprinkles in the team’s colors. Pack a bottle opener, paper towels, foil, sandwich bags, grilling tools, condiments, hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial soap. Remember to pack some extra plastic containers for leftover food.  



Pack Two Coolers

Chill the beverages in a refrigerator, the day before game day. Pack two coolers: one with kid’s beverages and non alcoholic beverages and one with adult beverages. Label each cooler. Pack the cans, bottles and ice in the bottom half of the cooler. Pack the food in airtight containers, with ice and freezer packs, on the top half of the cooler. 



Let the Games Begin

Make the game even more fun with some tailgate games that are family friendly. What’s a tailgate without playing cornhole? Make some cornhole bean bags with fabric of your team’s logo and you will have the coolest cornhole at game day. Show off your Frisbee skills in a game of Kanjam. For the guests who like a challenge, Spikeball is a fast paced tailgate game.



Step Up Your Game With A Generator

A portable generator can take your tailgate to the next level. If you plan on having a plasma TV and an electric grill, you’ll need a portable generator. The Honda EU2200i is a portable generator that is a super quiet, durable and easy to use. This Honda generator is so reliable that we cover it from top to bottom, for three years. Big Boys Play Toys, East Palatka, FL, (386) 328-4510 is here to answer your questions and help with your tailgating needs.

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Power Your Camping Trip In Style in East Palatka, FL

When you’re out camping in the RV, you want power. And at Big Boys Play Toys we are happy to help you find the right Honda generator for your trip. Equally important, we want to make sure you know how to use that generator safely – and easier – during your time outdoors.


Cover Your Generator in Wet Weather

Electricity and water don’t mix, so protect yourself by not running the generator when it’s wet outside. Depending on where you camp and the time of year, it may rain often during your camping trip. It’s best to have a dry place in your campsite to keep your generator at all times. Many RVs have a canopy you can set up, and you can raise the generator off the ground with blocks or other safe material so it stays dry.


However, you may also want to invest in a Honda cover for your generator. These covers are water-resistant and available in several colors and styles. This can help to ensure your generator never gets wet when you’re storing it outdoors. At Big Boys Play Toys we carry a wide variety of accessories and can help you find the right cover for your generator.


Remember that running your generator inside the RV is not a safe alternative to having it outside in inclement weather. Generators emit exhaust fumes, like your vehicle, and those fumes contain carbon monoxide. It’s best to invest in weather protection for your generator.


Get a Remote Start Kit

Don’t run your generator the entire time you’re camping. If you’re inside the RV relaxing, you may not want to walk outside to start the power. Honda makes remote start kits that work with most models with electric start and automatic choke. You’ll still need to make sure your generator is set up for safety before you start it, but the instructions included with the remote start kit make it easy to set up, and you’ll thank yourself for the investment when you can start the air conditioning without walking out into the heat.


Honda makes both wired and wireless remote start kits. You’ll want to look at the advantages of each before you purchase. Big Boys Play Toys can help you find the right model for your generator.


Light up Your Campsite

A campfire is essential when camping. The soft flickering glow…the smell of wood burning…these things just make your camping trip perfect. Unfortunately, a campfire isn’t great for reading or many other activities you might want to do outdoors at night. Consider getting a lighting kit. If you have a EU1000i, EU2000i, or EU2200i generator, the Tele-Lite Kit is perfect. It’s lightweight and the folding halogen light is easy to store. There are other lighting kits available, and one of these may be the perfect solution to seeing the full beauty of the forest on your camping trip.


There are many ways to power your camping trip, whether you take advantage of remote start or get a no-spill fuel can for easy and safe gas storage. No matter what, you’ll love your camping trip even more with the right accessories. Stop by Big Boys Play Toys to see all the available options!

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Why A Four Stroke Outboard Is Best from Big Boys Play Toys in East Palatka, FL

Boating is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Whether you prefer boating on the lake, bay or ocean, a great day on the water begins with Honda. Honda Marine is celebrating their 55th anniversary of the 4-stroke outboard this year! Why are 4-stroke outboard motors the best? 


• It saves money with a lower operating cost. Four-stroke outboards are approximately 50%

more fuel-efficient than most 2-stroke outboards. No 2-stroke oil is needed, reducing your costs even further.


• Better 4-stroke technology means longer life for the outboard. Four strokes bathe every internal component in oil for consistent lubrication. This design also helps cool engine components, which improves durability. Two-stroke engines rely on gas or air to carry a thin oil film to critical components.


• Four-stroke outboards are approximately 90% cleaner than typical 2-strokes. The 4-stroke motors do not release oil directly into the water. Bonus: Honda outboards have ultra-low emissions. 


• Four-stroke outboards are up to 50% quieter than 2-strokes. The 4-stroke outboards have less smoke and smell which provides a more pleasant operating experience. There is no 2-stroke stink to ruin your day on the water.   

   

Honda continually incorporates technology from our highly advanced automotive and racing heritage. Many Honda outboards also include exclusive technological features found in Honda’s most popular cars including the Honda Accord, Pilot, Odyssey, CR-V and Ridgeline.


Make your next boating excursion the best it can be, with Honda Marine. Big Boys Play Toys, in East Palatka, FL is here to answer your questions about Honda outboards and the Power of Boating Celebration. This is the perfect time to give your boat a new Honda 4-stroke outboard! 

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Honda Power Equipment in East Palatka FL

Big Boys Play Toys is proud to carry Honda Power Equipment products. Why? Because we only want to offer you products that you can trust and believe in. We want you to leave our store as a satisfied customer – and to have a positive experience both in our store and when you return home with your product. With Honda, we can be confident that you will be happy for years to come.


Honda has manufactured over 100 million power products worldwide since 1953. Over these years, they have developed power equipment like generators, lawn mowers, and snow blowers that have transformed the industry with new innovations and technology that rethinks how we use power equipment. In terms of durability, Honda doesn’t skimp. The quality of their manufacturing and parts is top notch. That’s why Honda has over 40 million satisfied power equipment customers in the United States. It’s common for us to see customers with Honda products that are 20 or 30 years old, and still working without problems.

Honda Power Equipment offers more than 70 models in six major product families, including brush power equipment.


You can purchase:

Generators: from 1,000 watts to 10,000 watts in models designed for residential, recreational, and industrial applications.

Lawn Mowers: 21-inch push-type and self-propelled models for premium residential and commercial gardening applications. Honda's full line of lawn mowers meets rigorous California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards, ensuring their availability and regulatory compliance in all 50 states.

Pumps: a wide variety of general de-watering, multi-purpose, commercial, and submersible models with discharge capacities from 37 to 433 gallons per minute.

Snow blowers: wheel drive, track drive, and lightweight models capable of moving from 1500 to 3000 lbs of snow.

Tillers: mini- mid- and rear-tine models.

Trimmers: three trimmer models in a variety of trim heads, engine sizes, and handle design choices, as well as the Honda VersAttach® system, a multi-tool system featuring 2 power heads and six attachments.


Contact Big Boys Play Toys for your Honda Power Equipment needs. 

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Top Eight Most Useful Generator Accessories in East Palatka, FL

Generator accessories will ensure that your generator is working properly and easier to move around, outdoors. Remember that the only safe place to have a generator is outdoors, away from doors and windows. These are eight of the most popular generator accessories that you can use, to keep your generator running optimally:

Optimate 3 Charger – The Honda Optimate 3 Charger will automatically recover, monitor and maintain all types of batteries from 2.5 to 32 amp-hours with its advanced diagnostic program, so your Honda generator is always ready to start when you need it.

Transfer Switch - *A transfer switch is essential to safely connect a generator to a home. A transfer switch is required by the National Electric Code for any connection of power to a home. A Transfer Switch isolates the generator, allowing a safe connection, so it cannot accidentally electrify external power wires. 

Power Inlet Box - *Inlet boxes are mounted on the outside of a home to avoid running a power cord through a window or door.

Extension Cord Sets – Extension cord sets ensure proper delivery of electricity from the generator to power outdoor items. If you choose not to install a transfer switch, you would also need extension cord sets to power indoor items, such as a TV or refrigerator.

Cold Weather Kit – Honda designed cold weather kits that are unique to a specific generator. A small heating coil that fits inside the crankcase breather tube, prevents water from freezing inside the crankcase, due to severely cold weather. If ice forms in the breather tube, it can block the air flow, causing the generator to not work properly and/or leak oil. 

Wheel Kit – Lifting a generator can be quite a challenge. Honda has a 2-wheel kit and a 4-wheel kit with rubber tires that makes moving a generator effortless. 

Generator Cover – Protect the Honda generator from rain, sleet and snow, with a custom-fitted, water resistant generator cover.

Lockwrap – A lockwrap is a neoprene cover that keeps ice, snow and debris out of combination locks.

*Power inlet boxes and transfer switches must be installed by a qualified electrician and the connection must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.


Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 is here to answer your questions about generators and generator accessories. We carry a wide variety of accessories in stock and can help you choose the right ones for your needs!


To learn more about operating a generator safely, check out our Generator Safety article.


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Why Buy A Honda Marine Outboard From Big Boys Play Toys

Big Boys Play Toys is proud to offer Honda Marine outboards. Whether you need to repower your boat or you’re looking for a new boat motor package, we are here to help. Why buy from us?


·      We are Honda experts and can help you find the right outboard for your boat. What is the horsepower rating and what is going to work best for your needs? At Big Boys Play Toys, we sell a wide range of outboard motors from 2.3 to 250 horsepower, making them ideal for boats of all sizes.  Our sales team knows exactly how to fit your boat with the right sized motor to get you going.   

·      Customer service responsiveness and knowledge. Big Boys Play Toys is dedicated to give you the best customer support and experience.  When you walk in the door, you’ll know your satisfaction is our top priority.

·      Service Experts here for you. Our technicians have completed hours of Honda Marine training and are true experts. Whether you need basic maintenance or a more complex repair, you will get quality service at a fair price.

·      Many Parts in stock. Need parts support? Big Boys Play Toys can help! We carry most common parts in stock, or we can get them for you quickly. And at Big Boys Play Toys you can feel confident you’ll always be getting genuine Honda parts – not some cheap aftermarket knock off.

·       Warranty support. Big Boys Play Toys is an authorized Honda Marine dealer, so we are able to perform warranty repairs in the unlikely event of an issue.


Big Boys Play Toys is proud to be your local Honda Marine experts here in East Palatka, FL. We hope you’ll stop in and see us soon!

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Generator Safety

Customer safety is extremely important to Big Boys Play Toys and that’s why we want to encourage discussions about generator safety. All too often, we hear about preventable deaths when generator safety isn’t a high priority, resulting in Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. In fact about 170 people in the U.S. die every year from CO produced by non-automotive consumer products.  


These products include Honda’s engine powered equipment such as generators for the construction and rental industries, backup power during outages, camping equipment and other outdoor events. CO is a deadly, colorless, odorless and can kill within minutes.


Big Boys Play Toys wants you to be safe. Many people don’t know the only safe place to have a generator is outdoors, away from doors and windows. In closed areas, even with open doors and windows, these spaces can trap CO and allow it to quickly build to lethal levels. So we need to learn and share how to practice generator safety.


Did you know generators …

·   Exhaust contains toxic CO.

·   Connected to a building improperly could allow electrical current to feed back into utility lines, creating an electrocution hazard for utility workers.

·   Using a generator with wet hands or in wet conditions could result in electrocution.

·   Run on gasoline and to avoid explosive situations, don’t refuel while the engine is hot and running and keep flammables away from the generator when it’s running.

·   Become very hot during operation and remain hot for a while after the engine stops. Be careful not to touch the muffler while it is hot, and let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.


CO initial symptoms are similar to the flu (without the fever), shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Higher level symptoms of CO poisoning include mental confusion, vomiting, loss of muscular coordination and consciousness and death. If you think you have been exposed to toxic levels of CO, get outside immediately for fresh air, call 911 and tell them you suspect you’ve been exposed to CO poisoning. This winter, Big Boys Play Toys wants us all to be safer by telling our family and friends about CO dangers and how we can avoid catastrophes. Consider purchasing CO detectors as gifts for ourselves and loved ones. We definitely want to read our generator manuals and encourage others to read them too and share the information, and take time to review generator labels for more safety specifics.


Big Boys Play Toys, 272 S US Highway 17 East Palatka, FL 32131-6059, (386) 328-4510 is here to answer your questions and help with your generator needs.

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Choosing A Honda Generator in East Palatka, FL

As winter continues to grip a good part of our country and the weather remains unpredictable, you never know when a generator might come in handy. If the area you live in has frequent power outages, buying a generator might be a good investment and relieve some stress.


Many of us don’t think about the need for a generator until we experience a power failure. Then all kinds of issues arise, including the inability to heat or cool our home, spoiled food in the refrigerator and freezer, inoperable medical equipment, charging your cell phone, and more. 




When choosing a generator, you will want to consider the following:


•      Decide on the size of the generator you need. Keep in mind, many people can use a small generator like the EU2200i to power their fridge, lights, TV, and other critical essentials during outages. If you need to power your well pump, you’ll need to go with a larger model, like the EM5000. Honda has a great tool to help you calculate the wattage you need. https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/wattage-calculator


•      Decide if the generator will be used as an emergency backup at home or during outdoor activities. If you are interested in using it for more than just emergency back up, consider an EU series generator, which is very versatile and perfect for recreational activities as well as home power.


A couple of safety issues to be aware of when using generators are carbon monoxide and electrocution. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and kills people every year, while sending others to the emergency room. Generators belong outside and should never be run in a basement or garage, even if windows or doors are open. Always consult your owner’s manual for other safety concerns and more information.

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