Toro and Kawasaki are both widely recognized as top-of-the-line engine manufacturing companies. Before developing theirs, Toro, for many years, had to use other commercial engines for the mowers they produced. Now, Toro produces engines for mowers alongside Kawasaki and others but, how do they fare compared to Kawasaki?
Kawasaki is so demonstratively better than Toro in mower engine design and manufacturing that Toro has and does use their engines in their mowers. Toro has winners in their V-Twin Engine and mower design, but Kawasaki is the clear leader in overall mower engine design and manufacturing.
However, it is essential to note that deciding which is better can be influenced by personal preference. Both Toro and Kawasaki have reputations of being reliable and trustworthy. Now, I’ll give you a closer look to choose for yourself based on what you consider in mower engines.
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Which Engine is Better? Toro or Kawasaki
I would choose Kawasaki any time, any day, and I know I have millions behind me on that choice. You cannot have a taste of Kawasaki’s engines for so long and choose otherwise, not even after Toro. This choice isn’t made because of attachment to the brand but because of its efficiency in delivery and, of course, durability!
Kawasaki engines are at the top, if not the top of the line and a clear winner over Toro engines. When rating on power, efficiency, and durability, Kawasaki is hands down the best of the two. Toro makes a popular and quality product, so it still could be a good residential or commercial choice.
Showing you the specs on mower engines will help you see why Kawasaki is better, so let’s do that. Below are some specs and how Kawasaki has proven superior.
Power
You must feel some satisfaction when you check the power rating for the engines of machines you use. This satisfaction is not necessarily shared by experts only when a trusted brand rates it. Yes, many engines are not actually what they are rated unless the manufacturers adhere to the SAE J2723 standards.
The SAE standard ensures that the rated horsepower is accurate to at least 98%, and Kawasaki adheres to this standard. When compared to Kawasaki, Toro’s strict adherence is not so assured.
Additionally, Kawasaki engines are more powerful and thus accurately rated higher than Toro’s. The FX engines of Kawasaki range from 15.5 to 38.5Hp, while Toro’s engines range from 14 to 27Hp for Zero-turn mowers.
Strict SAE Standard Adherence
Power Range
Kawasaki
High
15.5 – 38.5Hp
Toro
Moderate To High
14 – 27Hp
Efficiency
As internal combustion engines, Kawasaki engines are just too efficient using the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system for Toro to compete. With this system, Kawasaki engines speed up the cutting pace while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The automatic tuning of these EFI engines also aids in noise reduction.
To date, Toro is yet to develop an EFI engine but relies on Kohler for EFI engines on their mowers. Using Toro’s carbureted engines, you are in for quite an expenditure on fuel and constant tuning to control the engine noise. Kawasaki engines are much more efficient.
Maintenance
In all honesty, Kawasaki engines are high maintenance but not extreme or beyond feasible. Still, you can be sure to get the worth of every penny you spend on a Kawasaki engine.
Let me say right here that I would recommend to anyone this Kawasaki mower engine Tune-Up Kit. It will bring your mower back to its previous performance and cause it to last much longer.
Toro’s replacement parts are just as available as Kawasaki but with Kawasaki, do you even need them? A good question because you barely ever need part replacements until you use up the entire engine.
However, this does not suggest that Kawasaki engines are short-lived; instead, the opposite is true. Some users have reported using Kawasaki engines for over 15 years! Fifteen years, not of idle and periodic residential use but even for commercial uses, only Kawasaki engines are expected.
If you are a new buyer trying to make the best of your bucks, then go for Kawasaki! Here you get a flat 3-year warranty to test out and experience this product first hand. Kawasaki will readily cover repairs or replacements if, for any reason, the engine or any of its parts fails.
Overall, Kawasaki is better and remains the people’s favorite not just with a motorcycle but also with mower engines. On the other hand, Toro comes up short as a substitute or a second choice, especially when on a tight budget. Like many other companies, even Toro once used Kawasaki engines, as did John Deere, thus recognizing superiority in engine production.
To see more great comparisons, check out my articles…
SCAG Vs Hustler: Which Is A Better Mower All Around?
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Do Toro Mowers Have Kawasaki Engines?
Despite their striding efforts, many still do not consider Toro an engine-producing company, at least not as much as Kawasaki. One reason for this could be Toro’s extensive use of Kawasaki engines through the ages before developing theirs.
Toro mowers have been manufactured with Kawasaki Engines in the past and some still to this day. This combination of the Toro design and easy of use combined with the reliability, power, and efficiency of a Kawasaki engine keeps Toro in the top spots for commercial and residential jobs.
Popular Mechanics rated Toro mowers as the best all around mowers for some of the same reasons listed here.
Toro mowers do have Kawasaki engines and many users love their mowers in that manner alone. This combination is regarded as a fine complement for the best mowers. Remember, a good engine alone does not guarantee a good mower. A durable frame, comfortable design, and other factors are required, all of which Toro provides sufficiently in their mowers.
With Toro now producing their engines through Loncin Inc., the company favors Kawasaki engines much to this day. Still, persuasion from popular demand makes many Toro dealers use Kawasaki engines on Toro mowers. It is not unusual to see a Toro mower with a Kawasaki engine.
But does this mean that Toro engines are no good? Now let’s let the Toro brand shine…
Are Toro V-Twin Engines Any Good?
Here is where the Toro brand comes into its own.
The Toro V-twin engine is simply superb! This engine was designed and intended for zero-turn mowers with improved convenience alongside an improved performance.
The V-twin provides increased power alongside fuel efficiency using a dual-barrel carburetor. With the V-twin, no unscrewing is required for an oil change. All you have to do is pull out the drain hose and let out the used oil. After that, you replace the hose; thus, you do not need to be an expert or a mechanic to perform simple routine maintenance like this.
Toro attempts better durability with the V-twin by using a self-cleaning air filtration system. This system helps prevent dirt from getting into the engine hence preventing debris accumulation. With less dirt in an engine comes better durability and a long lifespan, and I am especially interested to see how this works for Toro.
No doubt the V-twin is a top-tier engine, and rightly so, even though it is way less expensive. But remember, this engine only meets the likes of Kawasaki at the top. And while Toro is trying to make a name in engine production, Kawasaki is living up to theirs. Since they both have good reasons to keep doing better, it now bears on you to make a good choice.
The Final Touches On Toro Vs Kawasaki Engines And Mowers…
It says something when comparing two mower brands when one uses the other’s engines in their machines. This is the definitely the case when comparing Toro and Kawasaki. Toro brand’s track record of consistently choosing Kawasaki engines for their mowers says it all.
This is not to say that Toro mowers with their own engines are a bad choice. This type of comparison is like comparing two fine wines. Both are excellent, but if pressed to choose the better of the two, certain criteria will tend to stand out.
For anyone choosing a Toro mower, my suggestion is to go with either a model sporting a Kawasaki engine or the Toro V-Twin engine. Either way, you will have a quality mower that will last for many years.
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Overview. Toro 21 in (53 cm) heavy duty commercial walk behind lawn mower with dual action single lever control system, blade brake clutch, 3 speed transmission, self propel rear wheel drive, commercial grade Kawasaki BBC ZS FJ180V engine.
Kawasaki Engines have been manufacturing high-performance, high-quality engines for ride-on lawnmowers for decades. Through that time, we have built a reputation for durable, efficient and powerful engines that any professional can be confident in.
The biggest advantage the TORO V-Twin has over other top tier engines is that TORO can have it produced less expensively than buying similar quality engines from Kohler and Kawasaki which frees up dollars to offer a lower mower price or to invest that savings in making the mower better in other areas like the frame, ...
The most common engines are Kawasaki and Kohler. The average life expectancy of one of these commercial grade engines is usually 3,500 hours with oil change intervals of 50 hours. Typically at 2,800 you can start to notice a lack in power, usually do to low compression.
The production of general purpose engines at the Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., Maryville, Missouri plant in the United States (KMM Maryville) started in June 1989.
Kohler and Kawasaki engines are regarded as the best options for zero-turn mowers due to their excellent cutting capabilities and fuel efficiency. And with Kawasaki engine models mainly equipped with V-twin technology, lawn mowing with this engine choice results in low emissions.
The three were unanimous in naming Toro, Honda, and Robomow as top brands, and praised many others, including Greenworks, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna. "We've come a long way since the first lawnmower was invented in 1830," Ingham says.
The Toro Company is an American company based in the Minneapolis suburb of Bloomington, Minnesota that designs, manufactures, and markets lawn mowers, snow blowers, and irrigation system supplies for commercial and residential, agricultural, and public sector uses. Bloomington, Minnesota, U.S.
Knowing you can expect your residential lawn mower to last you around 450-500 hours is helpful in the decision-making process. The closer you are to the end of the expected lifespan, the more you should consider replacing it if a large issue occurs.
Both brands utilise the pace-adjustment technology which allows the speed of the mower to vary, depending on how fast you're walking. Although Toro mowers are easy to control with user-friendly designs, John Deere's bigger and better quality range ensures there's a mower to fit a variety of needs.
They are THE brand in lawn mowers. They've got some sweet zero turn mowers, but are notorious for their extremely reliable push mowers. Whatever side yard you have, Toro has a mower for you that is the TOP of the line.
Easily cut your yard with the Toro Recycler® 22 in. High-Wheel Front Wheel Drive Variable Speed Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with a Honda® engine (CARB compliant). This tough engine delivers 160cc for powerful performance.
Stylish and rugged, Kawasaki is all about delivering fun to those who work hard and play hard. Kawasaki motorcycles provide high-quality suspension, superior brakes, ABS, and traction control to deliver speed, power, and maximum control.
Kawasaki. While a bit less reliable than the other big three Japanese brands, Kawasaki is still a dependable choice. Their popular Ninja and KLR models are a good choice if you're looking for a reliable, fun ride and their popularity makes repairs more affordable too.
And a Toro Zero-turn mower may last fifteen to twenty years. However, to realistically achieve this type of longevity a mower will require regular maintenance and must be stored indoors.
Power: Kohler is the better option for the heavy tasks because it has more powerful products. However, Honda engines are easier to maneuver. Fuel efficiency: Honda wins in this round, although the gap is minor. Price: Honda products are often more expensive.
Kohler engines are typically more expensive than Briggs & Stratton, due to their superior quality and performance. This makes them a great option for those who use their lawn mower on a daily basis or need the extra power that Kohler has to offer. Most professionals therefore choose Kohler over Briggs & Stratton.
A mid-grade zero turn mower offers you heavy duty components in the areas where it really counts, so you'll be able to handle your weekend mowing chores more easily. Key details: Cutting Width: 42-54” Horsepower: 18-26 HP.
The 18.5-horsepower engine is made by Briggs & Stratton, America's most reliable small engine manufacturer. The YTH18542 can reach a top speed of 7.4 mph, making it one of the fastest tractor-style mowers on the market.
Gas mowers are more durable; they simply last longer. In terms of engine life, a gas mower will run for 10 years or more, while a battery-powered mower will need to be replaced after about five years, on average.
What is the best zero-turn mower to buy? Our research shows that the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is the best zero-turn available for its price. The most reliable electric mower per cost is the Ryobi 42-inch mower (although the EGO mower gives it a run for its money in the high-tech department).
“The decision to end lawn mower production is driven by market forces such as stricter environmental regulations, shifting customer preferences, and our focus on growing profitable products in our portfolio.
Institutional Investors own Toro with a combined stake of 85.78% of the company. This interest is higher than most other companies in the Truck/Construction/Farm Machinery industry.
This Toro 21 in. (53 cm) self propel, heavy duty walk behind mower features a premium commercial-grade Kohler® CV173 engine with zone start and a sealed, maintenance-free transmission. The 2-bail control system makes it easy to vary the speed where you need it.
Toro® Commercial V-Twin and single-cylinder engines are specifically created to deliver optimal performance by matching the torque curve of the engines to the needs of the Toro product they power. Heavy-duty components and innovative features, are perfectly matched for the job you need to do.
On average, you can expect a heavy-duty riding mower to have a 5-year to an 8-year lifespan for residential use. For professional-grade mowers that see heavy commercial use, that lifespan is between 4 years and 5 years. The closer your mower is to those milestones, the more strongly you need to consider replacing it.
How Many Hours Should A Riding Mower Last? Most riding mowers last between 500-700 hours, although some can run for as much as 1,000 hours if cared for and maintained properly.
John Deere mowers are among the highest quality lawnmowers on the market. With proper maintenance and repair, a John Deere riding mower will provide approximately 2,000 hours or about fifteen years of service. A John Deere Self Propelled will offer approximately 1000 hours or about ten years of service.
While Toro uses an IronForged deck, Cub Cadet's deck is made with 11-gauge steel. Consumers using both have found Toro's decks more durable than Cub Cadets'. In terms of the engine, although Cub Cadet's engine displacement is higher, the 24.5 hp power makes Toro's zero turn mower stand out.
For residential use, we recommend Toro's TimeCutter as the best residential riding lawn mower for a variety of reasons. What it boils down to is that you get an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and reliability for the price.
Zero-turn mowers are ideal from a maneuverability standpoint and provide greater control for mowing around obstacles. So if your yard is full of trees, flowerbeds, swing sets or anything else that requires tight turning radius, you should consider stepping up to a zero-turn.
Honda makes great engines - but they do cost more on the mowers that have them especially Honda mowers. Briggs and Stratton engines are generally cheaper but are still good engines. For consumer use - do the maintenance and they will last as long as the lawn mower.
Honda Power Equipment Mfg., LLC (HPE) has boosted its general purpose engine production to 2 million engines per year for use by Honda and other manufacturers. In addition to engines, HPE produces Honda lawn mowers, generators, snow blowers, pumps, tillers, and string trimmers.
Since the first steel ship was built in Japan in 1890, ship material had rapidly modernized from iron to steel. The beginning of Kawasaki Dockyard is thus the beginning of Japan's modern shipbuilding industry.
(KHI) (川崎重工業株式会社, Kawasaki Jūkōgyō Kabushiki-gaisha) (or simply Kawasaki) is a Japanese public multinational corporation manufacturer of motorcycles, engines, heavy equipment, aerospace and defense equipment, rolling stock and ships, headquartered in Chūō, Kobe and Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
Long-term effects of Kawasaki disease, however, can include heart valve issues, abnormal heartbeat rhythm, inflammation of the heart muscle, and aneurysms (bulges in blood vessels). These lasting heart conditions are rare. Less than 2% of patients experience coronary artery enlargement that carries over into adulthood.
The most expensive Kawasaki two wheeler is Kawasaki Ninja H2 priced at Rs 79.90 Lakh. The most popular models for Kawasaki includes 4 Super, 4 Sports, 3 Sports Naked, 1 Sports Tourer, 3 Cruiser, 6 Dirt, 7 Off Road, 2 Cafe Racer.
If you have a small yard (one acre or less), a zero-turn mower with 10 to 20 HP is a solid bet. For larger yards up to three acres in size, a 20 to 25 HP zero-turn mower is a great mid-range option.
Toro® Commercial V-Twin and single-cylinder engines are specifically created to deliver optimal performance by matching the torque curve of the engines to the needs of the Toro product they power. Heavy-duty components and innovative features, are perfectly matched for the job you need to do.
Professional quality comes home with our FR Series engines. Featuring torque and power that's ideal for residential mowing and at-home lawn work, these engines provide a potent blend of muscle and efficiency. Compact, nimble, and durable, they're a great choice for homeowners looking to invest in quality equipment.
This Toro 21 in. (53 cm) self propel, heavy duty walk behind mower features a premium commercial-grade Kohler® CV173 engine with zone start and a sealed, maintenance-free transmission.
Easily cut your yard with the Toro Recycler® 22 in. High-Wheel Front Wheel Drive Variable Speed Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower with a Honda® engine (CARB compliant). This tough engine delivers 160cc for powerful performance.
steel deck. With a high-quality, user-friendly design, the Toro 22 in. Recycler Mower with SmartStow is the perfect product for your outdoor job. Powered by a durable 6.25ft-lb Gross Torque Briggs & StrattonEXI 150cc engine, it is designed for years of peak performance.
LIMITED LIABILITY. a. The liability of Kawasaki under the thirty-six (36) month warranty is limited solely to the remedying of defects in materials or workmanship by an authorized Kawasaki engine dealer at its place of business during customary business hours.
The 5-Step Cyclonic Debris Management feature extends engine life. When reviewing engines, you should know that John Deere does have branded engines, but they do not manufacture their own. Depending on the model, you will find engines manufactured by quality brands like Kawasaki and Briggs & Stratton.
And a Toro Zero-turn mower may last fifteen to twenty years. However, to realistically achieve this type of longevity a mower will require regular maintenance and must be stored indoors.
For all gasoline engines in Toro equipment, the recommended fuel is unleaded with an octane rating of at least 87 ((R+M)/2 rating method). Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) by volume is acceptable.
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Introduction: My name is Amb. Frankie Simonis, I am a hilarious, enchanting, energetic, cooperative, innocent, cute, joyous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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