I've been doing a bit of research on small air cooled engines recently. I'm really interested in how they work and the overhaul procedures involved. It got me thinking as to why people prefer one manufacturer over another.
The two most popular by far are briggs and stratton and honda. I have machinery with a mix of engines. Countax uses Briggs 16hp V twin vangaurd, Honda HRH 536 QXE uses GXV 160, Honda HRB425C uses GCV135, Wolseley super major merry tiller uses briggs 5hp horizontal L head.
I dont think its fair to compare one with another unless they are designed with roughly the same specs and intended for the same use e.g commercial or residential use. The honda GXV range is aimed at commercial use and is fitted to a lot of professional mowers. I think you would have to compare it to Briggs professional 800 range.
Some of the stuff i have read on the net is really misleading and there will always be brand fan boys for either make. I'd like to hear what engines you like, why and what you have compared them to.
stu
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Replies
honda and kawasaka start much easier i got a few briggs they are ok would not knock them but can be a pain to start
roy - i agree honda are easier to start. As far as i'm concerned they are also quieter but more expensive.
For the DIY repairer there is a wealth of information on the web for Briggs and stratton - a visit to there website gives you info on repairing and much more. Go to briggs bits site and you can find any part you want for almost any engine they have made. They also sell repair manuals and a host of briggs tools such as flywheel pullers and valve spring compressors. Honda on the other hand keep things very close to their chest. Briggs engines start to become very attractive to the home repairer.