All engines are not created equal, which directly affects the cost and performance of power equipment. Owners and operators demand particular specifications on the engines that power their equipment. They invest in more expensive engine features they know will last longer, have less downtime and can withstand the rigors of the rental industry.
Many equipment owners are faced with the question of whether to replace or rebuild their existing engines. When replacing, questions arise about how to match the right engine to the equipment. If changing brands, the new engine should have the same horsepower and be designed for the same applications as the old one so that parts don't need modification. There are also upgrade options to consider regarding duty cycle, serviceability and engine life.
Manufacturers say their engines have high output and torque and offer features such as full-pressure lubrication, cast-iron cylinder sleeves, dual air cleaner elements and forged steel crankshafts. Rental store owners realize the value in high-quality equipment, but do they really understand what all those engine features and benefits mean? Do they know the difference between a consumer-grade engine and a heavy-duty commercial engine?
To help rental store owners and operators make informed decisions, here's what to look for in your engine choices:
• External electronic low-oil sensor
One of the easiest ways to prolong engine life is to add an external electronic low-oil sensor, which automatically will shut down the engine when it is low on oil. This feature is available in a transistorized design with no moving parts, enhancing reliability. An external sensor also eliminates the need to take apart the engine when the oil sensor needs servicing.
• Carburetor with dust seal and nylon bushings
Carburetors with special dust seals on the choke and throttle shafts prevent carburetor wear and extend engine life. For durability, make sure all linkages are made of metal instead of plastic. A throttle shaft with dual nylon bushings results in smoother operation compared with metal-to-metal contact.
Automotive-type air cleaner system
Automotive-type air cleaner systems filter out large dirt particles with their outer urethane foam element. A densely pleated, large-diameter inner filter also filters the harsh environments in industrial equipment applications. This two-stage, dual-element combination keeps dust to a minimum and protects the engine.
• Fuel system components
To keep dirt from entering the engine through the gas tank, manufacturers equip their engines with inlet fuel filters. Make sure the filters' sediment bowl is easily accessible for regular checkups. Also look for a translucent sediment bowl that shows dirt or water without having to pry open the engine.
• Cast-iron cylinder liner
A cast-iron cylinder liner prolongs engine life better than the softer aluminum surrounding it. It also can be bored out for rebuilds, eliminating the need to throw out the block when the liner is damaged.
• Aluminum alloy piston with special cast-iron piston rings
Some manufacturers feature an advanced three-piece oil ring system designed for better sealing and less oil consumption. An aluminum alloy piston with cast-iron piston ring also results in longer oil maintenance intervals.
• Forged high-carbon steel crankshaft and connecting rod
The drop-forging process strengthens the crankshaft by realigning the molecules in the steel. Most engines use cast-steel crankshafts with induction-hardened surfaces that are only a few microns deep. Look for a forged steel crankshaft that is supported by a large, heavy-duty ball bearing on the power takeoff side to improve performance on high side-load applications.
• Forged aluminum connecting rod
Drop-forging hardens engines as well as crankshafts, so consider forged aluminum connecting rods.
• Aluminum die-cast main bearing cover
Whether looking for V-twin or single-cylinder engines, consider extra-large PTO ball bearings, which provide good crankshaft support in applications with severe side-load requirements. A structurally sound aluminum die-cast main bearing cover with bracing ribs provides excellent support to the ball bearings.
Multiple reinforcing ribs on the crankcase also indicate durability. The ball-bearing-supported crankshaft can resist daily hammering and extreme side loads better than the polished plain-bearing surfaces of a consumer-grade engine. A reinforced crankcase and bearing cover reduce vibration, and the cover can be removed easily during engine inspection or service.
Porter is vice president of sales and marketing at Robin America, Wood Dale, Ill.
Robin Subaru
Robin Subaru LPG/NG overhead valve engines from Robin America feature throttle body fuel systems; electronic ignition systems; cast-iron cylinder sleeves; 12-volt electric starters; full-pressure lubrication; full-flow, spin-on oil filters; and dual-element air cleaners. The air-cooled, four-cycle, V-twin cylinder units are available in three models: the EH72, EH65 and EH63. Options include a choice of muffler kits and power takeoff shafts, 20- and 30-amp charging systems, an oil cooler, and manual throttle and choke controls.
www.robinamerica.com
800/277-6246
Kohler
The 250cc Command Pro CS 8.5-horsepower engine is an addition to Kohler's line of CS engines. The horizontal-shaft, air-cooled engine features an unobstructed power takeoff face and a dual-directional remote throttle to facilitate installation; a cyclonic air cleaner; and a maximum 12.2 foot-pounds of torque at 2,400 rpm. The unit also features CS standards such as a solenoid shift electric starter, a 6-liter steel fuel tank with an overhead valve slant-cylinder design, an integrated exhaust system and a cast-iron cylinder sleeve. Kohler says the unit can power pumps, generators, compressors, mixers, concrete saws, welders, chippers, aerators and sprayers.
www.kohlerengines.com
800/544-2444
Cummins
Joining the Quantum System family of electronic engines, the QSM11 is designed to reach a peak rating of 430 horsepower at 1,800 rpm and can be used to power industrial and agricultural equipment, according to Cummins. The six-cylinder unit delivers 1,400 foot-pounds of torque, an electronic control module, new combustion technology with Celect dual-pulse injectors, a patented variable output wastegated turbocharger and enhanced filtration. The electronic system can be accessed with Cummins' QuickCheck, software for a Palm hand-held device that recovers engine data and monitors operating status.
www.cummins.com
800/DIESELS [343-7357]
Kawasaki
Kawasaki offers three new liquid-cooled, horizontal-shaft, V-twin engines: the FD671D, FD711D and FD750D (pictured). Ranging in power from 23 to 27 horsepower, the engines feature overhead v-valve construction, fully pressurized lubrication, a dual-element air cleaner and a twin-barrel carburetor.
www.kawpowr.com
877/529-7697
Fleetguard
The Centriguard from Fleetguard/Nelson is a centrifugal filter designed for 18-liter and larger diesel engines. The filter reduces emissions, extends drain intervals and removes contaminants in lube oil, reducing service costs and downtime, the company says. By forcing particles to move across a narrow gap between plastic cones, the filter pushes those particles out toward the plastic liner shell, where they are compressed.
www.fleetguard.com
615/367-0040
Perkins
The 1004-42 is the latest addition to Perkins' 1000 Series engines. The four-cylinder unit has a general industrial rating of 86 horsepower at 2,400 rpm and a torque rise rating of 75 horsepower at 2,000 rpm. Features include a cast-iron cylinder block and cylinder head designed specifically for naturally aspirated performance.
www.perkins.com
888/737-5364
American Honda
The 5-horsepower GCV160 premium residential engine from American Honda features an overhead valve, a vertical shaft and a dry weight of 24.7 pounds.
www.honda.com
800/426-7701
Briggs & Stratton
Briggs & Stratton Vanguard engines range from 4 to 23 horsepower and feature advanced overhead valve technology. The Vanguard 3/LC is a three-cylinder, liquid-cooled, horizontal-shaft model for standby power applications. Available in gasoline, diesel and LPG/NG models, the 3/LC is offered in sizes from 700 to 950 cubic centimeters.
www.briggsandstratton.com
414/259-5262
Caterpillar
The 3500 family of industrial engines from Caterpillar Engine Division features three new models in its 3500 Series B. The engines have electronic control modules, injection pressure of 22,000 pounds per square inch and increased engine protection with programmable, electronic alarms, deratings and shutdowns.
www.cat-industrial.com
309/675-1000
John Deere
John Deere Power Systems' PowerTech 8.1 L engine has an intermittent rating of 325 horsepower, air-to-air cooling, electronic controls and a new fuel system. The unit complies with Tier 2 emission standards, the company says, and can be used to power agricultural and industrial equipment, generator sets, portable compressors and forklifts.
www.deere.com/jdpower
800/533-6446
Hatz
Hatz Diesel of America has added two models to its B Series engine line: the 1B40 and 1B40V. The B engines feature changeable power takeoff shafts (horizontal and vertical). Accessories include recoil and electric starting. The 1B40 is the largest of its line with a rated horsepower of 10.5 at 3,600 rpm and a weight of 105 pounds.
www.hatzusa.com
262/544-0254
Deutz
Deutz 1011F Series diesel engines have output ratings from 20 to 83 horsepower and are available in two versions: the FL1011F with an integrated cooling system and the FM1011F with a fan and externally mounted oil cooler. The 1011F features direct injection, individual injection pumps for each cylinder, key shutdown and automatic fuel system bleeding.
www.deutz.de
770/564-7100
Lister-Petter
Lister-Petter's LPWT4 water-cooled, direct-injection diesel engine has a ribbed, cast-iron crankcase with a service door for access; an internal crankcase breather to reduce emissions; and large bearing surfaces.
www.lister-petter.com
913/764-3512
