Briggs and Stratton vs Kohler Lawn Mower Engines
Both Briggs and Stratton and Kohler lawn mower engines manufacture durable engines for remarkable cutting results on lawns.
But which one is better? Keep reading…
In this article, we compare Briggs and Stratton vs Kohler lawn mower engines by paying attention to factors such as engine power, fuel efficiency, cost and maintenance.
Ready? Let’s get right into it:
Briggs and Stratton Brand Overview
Briggs & Stratton Corporation was founded by Stephen Foster Briggs and Harold M. Stratton in 1908. It has its headquarters in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
They started with the production of cast-iron engines but they did not gain popularity until they produced lightweight aluminum engines in 1953.
The company has thirteen facilities in the United States of America and eight more in the Netherlands, China, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, and Canada.
Apart from manufacturing small engines, they are one of the leading manufacturers of lawn and garden turf care, job site products, and power generation.
Kohler Brand Overview
Kohler Co. is an American company founded by John Michael Kohler in 1873. The American company is based in Kohler, Wisconsin.
They have manufactured a wide range of mower engines for both residential and commercial use. The idea of electronic fuel injection (EFI) engines used in lawn mowers was introduced by the firm.
Apart from lawn mower engines, they also manufacture furniture, tile, generators, and cabinetry.
Key Differences Between Briggs and Stratton and Kawasaki Lawn Mower Engines
The main difference between them is that Kohler engines have a longer lifespan (1000-4000 hours) while Briggs and Stratton engines are cheaper.
Best Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mower Engines
1. Briggs & Stratton 49T877-0004-G1 27 Gross HP V-Twin Engine
The 27HP Briggs and Stratton V-twin engine feature an increased cylinder block structure that ensures added strength and durability.
Its cyclonic air filter protects the engine from debris while the full pressure lubrication with a spin-on oil filter ensures long component life.
2. Briggs and Stratton 19 HP Single Cylinder Engine
The 19HP Briggs and Stratton Intek Series engine has Dura-Bore cast-iron cylinder sleeve that ensures extended engine life. It is best suited for riding mowing machines.
This engine includes a magnetron electronic ignition, an installed muffler and a fuel pump for superb engine performance.
3. Briggs and Stratton 44N877-0005 24HP Endurance Series 16 Amp
The 24HP Briggs and Stratton engine is a universal replacement engine for riding mowers, zero-turn mowers, and lawn and garden tractors.
A user commented that the engine has great startups and can run smoothly. It is well-liked for its easy installation.
4. Briggs and Stratton 31R907-0007-G1 17.5 Gross HP Engine
The Briggs and Stratton 500cc engine comes with a Dura-Bore cast-iron cylinder sleeve to ensure longer engine life.
The float carburetor provides easy starting and its patented linear balancing system ensures smooth engine performance. It is well-liked for its easy installation.
5. Briggs and Stratton 17.5 HP 500cc INTEK Engine
The Briggs and Stratton 500cc engine is a common replacement engine for riding lawn mowers.
It has a patented linear balancing system that ensures smooth engine performance. Its cast-iron cylinder sleeve and dual-element air filter ensure longer engine life.
Other features include a magnetron electronic ignition, oil filter, fuel pump, and a 9 amp charging system.
Best Kohler Lawn Mower Engines
1. Kohler 7 HP Command Pro Engine ¾ in. Crankshaft, Recoil Start
The 7 HP Kohler engine can start effortlessly in all weather conditions.
It comes with a cyclonic air filter to ensure effective engine protection in tough conditions. The engines’ steel-forged crankshaft and satellite exhaust valve are built to last.
A user commented that the engine runs greatly. Other features include cast iron cylinder liner, choke controls and automatic compression release.
2. Kohler SH Series 6.5 HP Engine ¾ in. Crankshaft, Recoil Start
The Kohler SH Series 6.5 HP engine comes with a cast-iron cylinder liner that protects the engine.
Its overhead valve design enhances better fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions.
The recoil starter with dual ball bearings ensures effortless starting. Homeowners can stop less and work more with the engine’s large fuel tank.
3. Kohler 2000 Series OHV Horizontal Engine
The 196cc Kohler engine is equipped with an OHV design to allow your engine to last long. Its oversized muffler reduces the noise for a comfortable operation.
The easy-pull ergonomic recoil handle makes starting easy. Other features include an electronic ignition system, auto compression release, easy-access throttle and air cleaner.
4. Kohler KT745 V-Twin Engine
The 26HP Kohler engine features a PRO performance package to increase oil, air and fuel filter capacity for extra protection.
It can start in hot or cold temperatures thanks to its Smart-Choke technology. In addition, it does not require choking. It starts at any throttle position.
The KT745 model comes with a Consistent-Cut technology that helps to maintain engine speed even in tough mowing conditions
5. Kohler 7000 Series KT740 Engine
The Kohler KT740 engine can start in hot or cold temperatures thanks to its Smart-Choke technology.
It comes with a PRO performance filtration package to increase oil, air and fuel filter capacity for extra protection.
The KT740 features a Consistent-Cut technology that helps to maintain engine speed even in tough mowing conditions
Briggs and Stratton Vs Kohler Engine
Here is a head-to-head comparison of the two lawn mower engine brands:
Power
Briggs and Stratton’s engines have a horsepower rating that is between 5 HP-37 HP.
On the other hand, Kohler engines are designed to meet a variety of application needs. Their mower engines range from 3 HP to 38 Hp
The Winner: Kohler. Most of their engines offer more power output than Briggs and Stratton engines.
Cost
Kohler lawn mower engines are more expensive than Briggs and Stratton engines.
The Winner. Briggs and Stratton. Their lawn mower engines are cheaper than Kohler mower engines.
Brands That Use Briggs and Stratton and Kohler Engines
You can find Briggs and Stratton engines in lawn mower brands like Husqvarna, Craftsman, Briggs and Stratton, Brute, Snapper PRO, Bolens, and Poulan Pro mowers.
On the other hand, you can find Kohler mower engines in a wide range of brands such as Craftsman, Walker, Scag, Cub Cadet, Toro, Dixon, Gravely, Ariens, MTD, Husqvarna and John Deere lawn mowers.
The Winner: Kohler. A wider range of brands makes use of Kohler engines.
Lifespan
The lifespan of an engine depends on its maintenance.
Briggs and Stratton engines can last for at least five hundred hours. Generally, their commercial engines are designed to run up to 1000 hours if properly maintained.
On the other hand, the Kohler engine lasts for up to 1000 hours. Some users claimed that their Kohler engines lasted for up to 2000-4000 hours if properly maintained.
The Winner: Kohler. They generate more power output than Briggs and Stratton engines.
Warranty
Briggs and Stratton’s engines are backed by a two-year warranty.
For Kohler, its residential engines come with a warranty of one to five years. Commercial or rental policies may range up to three years.
The Winner: Kohler. Kohler offers a better warranty package.
Reliability
Kohler lawn mower engines are regarded as the best options for zero-turn mowers due to their excellent cutting capabilities and fuel efficiency.
On the downside, Kohler models such as Kohler Courage single cylinder (SV470-610) and 22 HP Kohler Command engine have issues with oil leakage but they can easily be fixed.
Briggs and Stratton’s engines are also reliable but some users commented that their engines developed carburetor problems and oil leakage.
A user complained that the Briggs and Stratton 27HP 49T877-0004-G1 Commercial Turf Series engine has issues with oil leakage.
The Winner: Kohler. Kohler engines are more reliable than Briggs and Stratton engines.
Maintenance
Both Briggs and Stratton and Kohler lawn mower engines require maintenance. It is important to follow the user’s manual to maintain the oil level, air filter, oil filter and spark plugs.
Almost all small engine shops can handle Briggs and Stratton engines while replacement parts for Briggs and Stratton engines are affordable.
Briggs and Stratton’s engines require synthetic oil like SAE 30W oil which is a bit high in price.
On the other hand, Kohler engines require low maintenance.
For instance, the Kohler XTX series does not require oil change. Its combustion rings and authentic air filtration system prevent the oil from getting dirty. Kohler’s engine parts are also widely available.
The Winner: Kohler. They require less maintenance than Briggs and Stratton engines.
Fuel Efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, Kohler mower engines are better than Briggs and Stratton mower engines.
For instance, Kohler Command Models are one of the best options to consider if you want maximum fuel efficiency.
Given the reliability of its hydraulic lifters, we conclude that Kohler engines are more efficient than several Briggs and Stratton engine options.
The Winner: Kohler. Kohler engines are more fuel-efficient than Briggs and Stratton engines.
Pros and Cons
Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mower Engines
Pros:
- Easy DIY repairs
- Their replacement parts are affordable.
- Briggs and Stratton’s engines have an anti-vibration system to ensure a smooth mowing operation.
Cons
- Their engines are bulky
- Briggs and Stratton mower engines break down the more
- Greater emissions.
Kohler Lawn Mower Engines
Pros:
- They are durable and powerful
- Kohler engines require minimal maintenance to keep them running for so long.
- They have a long lifespan.
Cons
- Kohler engines are a bit pricey
- They may experience wear and tear.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Both mower engine brands produce high-quality engines but it depends on what you are looking for in a mower engine.
If you have a tight budget, you can choose Briggs and Stratton engines.
If you are more concerned about engine power and longevity, we recommend Kohler engines over Briggs and Stratton engines because they offer high levels of horsepower and tend to last longer than Briggs and Stratton engines.