Proudly serving the industry for which it was named for more than 50 years, Outdoor Power Equipment provides dealers who sell and service outdoor power equipment with valuable information to succeed in a competitive market.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/752598
GIE + EXPO 2016 SHOW RECAP 22 DECEMBER 2016 OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT www.outdoorpowerequipment.com FEATURE STORY ■ No need for cold-start choke, automatic enrichment to ensure fast, dependable starts in any type of weather — cold or hot, wet or dry ■ Engine temperature monitoring guards against overheating while protecting the landscapers' investment ■ Optimum blade tip speed — critical to reducing the need for re-cuts — is aided via the system's power/load matching, which helps make for a clean cut on the first go-around. The open-loop design is at the core of this system's reliability for tough commercial use. And furthering Kawasaki's approach to simplifying the job for commercial applications, the all-new EFI is matched by a PC or tablet plug- in diagnostic system for quick and easy troubleshooting, accurate service, and helping to minimize downtime. Kawasaki maintained the same footprint as its carbureted engine models, so upgrading to EFI is clean and easy. Similar to all Kawasaki engines, the EFI engines feature SAE-certified Critical Power, ensuring that engines deliver a minimum of 98 percent of rated horsepower for the needed productivity commercial users can count on. Kohler Engines develops first twin-cylinder engine with EFI technology for consumer lawn mowers Kohler Engines, which was the first company to incorporate electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology into high-performance, air-cooled, twin-cylinder engines used by lawn care professionals, unveiled its first-ever EFI twin-cylinder engine designed specifically for consumer lawn mowers. "Kohler Engines pioneered closed- loop EFI technology in commercial lawn mowers back in 1996," said Eric Hudak, marketing manager for Kohler Engines. "It was a technology that was developed for — and targeted to — the professional market. Now, we're rolling this performance-enhancing and fuel- efficient innovation into our new 7500 Series EFI engine, which is designed specifically for consumer lawn mowers." Kohler's new EFI consumer engine is available in 25-hp. or 27-hp. models and is anticipated to be offered on major lawn mower brands in spring 2017. The company's closed-loop EFI system delivers several benefits to consumer lawn mowers, including automotive-like turnkey starting and better fuel economy. Because EFI systems replace carburetors, carburetor-related issues and repairs are also eliminated — including the buildup of damaging residue and carburetor corrosion that can occur when using ethanol-blended gasoline. In addition to the new EFI consumer engine, Kohler announced the expansion of its professional line of EFI engines with the launch of the newly modified Aegis EFI engine. Designed for use in utility vehicles, lawn and garden equipment, heavy-duty construction equipment and other applications, this 30-hp., V-Twin, horizontal-shaft, liquid-cooled gasoline engine features Kohler's latest EFI technology for optimal fuel efficiency, improved power and enhanced reliability. Built to last, the Kohler Aegis EFI's liquid-cooling system helps maintain consistent running temperatures while keeping oil cool, limiting engine wear and tear. The engine's new EFI technology comes equipped with advanced sensors, which monitor engine running conditions and environmental factors to optimize engine performance. "Combining the liquid-cooling capabilities of the Aegis with Kohler's latest EFI technology creates a stronger, more reliable engine that offers optimized performance," said William Schnell, senior product manager. "The new Aegis EFI is an ideal choice for those demanding applications that require peak efficiency, reliability and performance." Kubota expands commercial mower line with new gas-powered Z400-Series Kubota Tractor Corporation introduced its Z400-Series zero-turn commercial mower line at GIE+EXPO 2016. The Z400-Series consists of three models — the Z411KW-48, Z421KW-54 and Z421KWT-60 — all powered by Kawasaki FS gasoline engines with 48-, 54- and 60-inch decks, respectively. Kubota's Z400-Series combines the performance and durability of commercial-grade components with a new, modern design and class-leading speed. "Landscape professionals have been asking Kubota for a 60-inch commercial mower with all the features and performance at a more attractive price, and the Z400-Series is our response to this market demand," said Tom Vachal, Kubota senior turf product manager. "We call this new series the 'Kommander Pro' because it bridges the gap between our residential zero-turn Kommander series and larger commercial Z700-Series. Even more, it's backed by a commercial 2-year unlimited hours warranty for the commercial customer and a 4-year, 500-hour warranty for the residential customer." The Z400-Series delivers powerful cutting performance at class-leading speed. Kubota uses Hydro-Gear's ZT-3400 commercial transmission to provide the optimum combination of speed and torque. The transmission is designed for ease of maintenance to minimize downtime for landscape professionals. A 24-hp. Kawasaki FS gasoline engine powers the Z421KWT-60 and Z421KW-54, while a 22-hp. Kawasaki FS engine powers the Z411KW-48, and all three models come equipped with a 6.8-gallon fuel tank. The Z400 delivers more horsepower to the deck while mowing on the largest tires in the class, bringing an excellent cut quality to the market segment. The Z400's large, low-profile tires help the mowers provide outstanding grass- cutting performance through dense turf and across hilly terrain. Kubota's Z400-Series is designed to maximize efficiency and productivity, starting with a thick and durable tubular steel frame for strong and stable operation. Each model features a 10-gauge, 5-inch-deep, fully welded deck for added grass-cutting performance. Kubota's K-Lift deck height adjustment system makes for quick and easy cutting height changes with a simple turn of a dial and press of the pedal. The Z400-Series continues to offer excellent ergonomics and operator comfort already available in Kubota's commercial zero-turn mowers. Kubota's foot pedal mower lift system contributes to operator ease, along with a foot pedal braking system that allows setting of the brake without letting go the steering levers. A deluxe adjustable seat offers operators exceptional comfort, while ultra-smooth steering provides optimum control and traveling speeds up to 10-mph forward and up to 5-mph reverse, allowing operators to mow efficiently while reducing fatigue and producing a high-quality cut. For more information on Kubota's Z400-Series, see page 32. In addition, Kubota showcased its recently introduced BX80-Series of sub-compact tractors. The BX80-Series consists of four models: BX1880, BX2380, BX2680, and BX23S, which comes with a standard-equipped front