Best Lawn Mower Engine
Getting a reliable and durable engine for your lawn mower will enhance a smooth lawn mowing experience.
But the challenge is, considering a wide variety of lawn mower engines out there, which one is best for your lawn mower?
After spending 8.3 hours combing through different online platforms and stores, we bring you the top-rated lawn mower engines available on the market today.
In a hurry? Check our top three recommendations:
Best Lawn Mower Engine: Top 3
- Cyclonic air filter provides ultimate debris protection.
- Overhead valve design ensures cool operation when working in tough mowing conditions.
- Easy to install.
- Durable cast iron cylinder withstands wear and abuse.
- Low oil shutoff feature prevents engine damage.
- Engine offers smooth operation.
- Easy to install.
- Dual-element air filter and cast-iron cylinder sleeve ensure extended engine life.
- Offers outstanding value for your money
1. Briggs & Stratton 49T877-0004-G1 Commercial Turf Series 27 Gross HP V-Twin Engine
The 27HP Briggs and Stratton engine is equipped with a patented 5-step debris management system for improved durability under heavy debris conditions.
Pros:
- The 27HP Briggs and Stratton engine is easy to install.
- It comes with a patented five-step debris management to ensure ultimate durability.
- Its cyclonic air filter lasts longer than panel-style air cleaners.
Cons
- Some users complained about oil leakage
- It is a bit pricey.
Its cyclonic air filter offers maximum debris protection and lasts 2.5X longer than panel-style air cleaner systems.
It is an ideal option for riding tractors and zero-turn mowers.
The full pressure lubrication with a spin-on oil filter ensures controlled lubrication for longer component life.
2. Briggs and Stratton Intek Series, 19HP, 540cc, Single Cylinder Engine
The 19HP Briggs and Stratton Intek engine is ideal for riding mowers.
Pros:
- The Briggs and Stratton Intek Series engine is easy to set up
- It comes with an overhead valve design for long valve life.
- The super-finished crank pin bearing helps to minimize friction and heat.
Cons
- The engine does come with a muffler.
Its Dura-Bore cast iron cylinder sleeve ensures extended engine life while the overhead valve design enhances cooler operation and long valve life.
The engine is easy to set up. Other features include a 9 amp charging system, pulse fuel pump and full pressure lubrication with an oil filter for superb engine performance.
3. Briggs and Stratton 31R907-0007-G1 500cc Engine
The Briggs and Stratton 500cc engine comes with a dual-element air filter and cast iron cylinder sleeve to ensure extended engine life.
Pros:
- The Briggs and Stratton engine features a cast-iron cylinder for extended engine life.
- It is easy to install.
- The 31R907-0007-G1 engine model comes with a patented balancing system for smoother engine performance.
Cons
- A user complained about cracked plastic housing.
- It does not have an oil filter.
The float carburetor also provides consistent and easy starting while its patented linear balancing system enhances smoother engine performance.
The 500cc engine is CARB compliant and easy to install. It uses an electric starter for easy operation.
It is perfect for mowing small lawns with ease. The engine features a pre-installed muffler and 9AMP for charging the battery.
4. Kawasaki FJ180V-BM09 Engine, 1 x 3 5/32” Straight Shaft
The FJ180V-BM09 model is a commercial replacement engine that you can get for less than 500 dollars.
Pros:
- The Kawasaki FJ180V-M09 engine is affordable
- It is a perfect choice for commercial and consumer push mowers.
- The engine runs smoothly.
Cons
- The engine does not have a fuel tank.
- A user commented about broken air cleaner housing.
It is ideal for commercial and consumer push lawn mowers. A user noted that the engine runs well and had no issue for over one year.
5. Briggs and Stratton Vertical 17.5 HP 500cc INTEK Engine 9 amp
The Briggs and Stratton Vertical 17.5 HP engine comes with a patented linear balancing system for a smooth performance.
Pros:
- The Briggs and Stratton vertical engine is easy to install.
- It comes with a cast-iron cylinder sleeve and dual-element air filter for extended engine life.
- It is a great fit for riding mowers.
Cons
- A user commented about oil leakage from the crankcase gasket.
- An owner noted about damaged air filter cover and plastic nuts.
Its cast-iron cylinder sleeve and dual-element air filter ensure extended engine life.
The engine is a common replacement for riding mowers. It is easy to install and can offer outstanding value for your money.
The engine also features an oil filter, fuel pump, and a 9amp charging system.
6. BILT HARD Gas Engine Vertical Shaft 173cc 4-Stroke Lawn Mower Engine
The BILT HARD engine has a maximum torque of 6.64ft. lbs at 2500 RPM.
The built-in forced air-cooled and splash lubrication system keeps the mower’s motor cool and also provides the operator’s safety.
Pros:
- The Bilt HARD engine comes with a built-in forced air-cooled and splash lubrication system to ensure operator’s safety.
- Its low oil sensor helps to shut down the engine when the oil reaches a level that is too low for safe operation.
- The engine runs quietly and provides smooth operations on lawns.
Cons
- No drawback worthy of note.
The low oil shutoff feature turns the engine off to avoid engine damage.
Its cast-iron cylinder can withstand wear and abuse. The engine has user-friendly controls for easy starting.
7. 875 Professional Series Engine
The 875 professional series engine features a commercial-grade air cleaner with dual seals to ensure a longer engine life. The rewind starter helps to minimize pulling effort.
Pros:
- The Readystart starting system does not require a choke or prime.
- A user liked the fact that the engine is easy to install.
- The 875 Professional Series engine meets 2012 EPA Phase 3 standards.
Cons
- The motor does not have a steady rpm
- Some users had issues with the starting system.
The engine’s ReadyStart system does not require prime or choke. All you need to do is just pull for power.
Final Verdict
When it comes to high power output, efficiency and reliability, the Briggs & Stratton 49T877-0004-G1 engine is our top pick.
It has a patented 5-step debris management system for improved durability under heavy debris conditions.
Its cyclonic air filter lasts 2.5X longer than panel-style air cleaner systems. The 27HP Briggs and Stratton engine is an ideal option for riding tractors and zero-turn mowers.
The full pressure lubrication with a spin-on oil filter ensures controlled lubrication for longer component life.
- Cyclonic air filter provides ultimate debris protection.
- Overhead valve design ensures cool operation when working in tough mowing conditions.
- Easy to install.
Is Kawasaki better than Briggs and Stratton Engine?
Although both engine brands are well-known for their durability, efficiency, and advanced design, Kawasaki engines are better because they offer more power output, more cooling capabilities, and fewer vibration issues.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Lawn Mower Engine
If you are in the market for an ideal lawn mower engine for your mowing machine, there are some factors to consider. Here are some of them:
Efficiency
This is one of the most important factors to consider before choosing a lawn mower engine.
The efficiency of your engine depends on factors such as fuel efficiency and engine power. For maximum efficiency, ensure that you get an engine with more ccs.
High-Power Output
Most gas-powered engines range between 140cc to 190cc. It is advisable to get a powerful engine to enable you to trim long grass in your yard.
Reliability
To get mower engines that offer reliability, it is important to avoid unbranded engines.
You can get engines from reputable brands like Honda, Kawasaki, Kohler and Briggs and Stratton to ensure a smooth operation on lawns.
How to Maintain Your Lawn Mower Engine: Steps to Follow
Below are a few tips for maintaining your lawn mower engine:
Check and Change the Oil
Using the right engine oil for your engine enables it to function properly.
During the mowing season, ensure that you check the oil level before using the mower. An oil change is required after every fifty hours of use.
If you are using the mowing for the first time, ensure that you change the oil after five hours of use.
Use Fresh Fuel Only
Fresh fuel enables the engine to perform efficiently and smoothly.
Gas degrades after 30 days and can negatively affect the engine and starting performance. This affects the functionality and operation of the lawn equipment.
It is advisable to drain old fuel and fill it with a clean and fresh fuel. You can also use a fuel stabilizer to keep the gas fresh for a longer time.
Inspect the Spark Plugs
The spark plug may become faulty if the machine has issues with bad air and fuel mixture.
Ensure that you inspect defective spark plugs and replace them with new ones.
Keep the Air Filter Clean
The air filter is an essential component of the lawn mower engine.
It needs to be checked and cleaned of debris or replaced. If you have a cardboard air filter, it is advisable to replace it rather than clean it.
For a foam filter, soak it in warm soapy water and air dry it. When putting it back, you can add a thin layer of clean motor oil to trap more particles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a lawn mower engine last?
The longevity of your lawn mower engine may depend on some factors such as quality, maintenance and usage.
It can last for at least eight to ten years if properly maintained. This converts to 300-500 hours for a small engine and 750-1000 for a larger engine.
Are Briggs and Stratton engines good?
A: Yes, Briggs and Stratton engines are well-liked for their durability, reliability and consistent starts.
Where are Kawasaki engines made?
Kawasaki engines are produced in Maryville, Missouri in the United States of America.