1. Why did Honda develop a new generation of the V-Twin engine? How many new V-Twin models are there? Will they replace the existing V-Twin models?
Honda V-Twin engines have been newly designed to offer customers more power, adaptability, greater fuel economy and reduced emissions in a more compact package. There are six new V-Twin models (GX/GXV630, GX/GXV660 and GX/GXV690) that replace six of the seven existing V-Twin models (GX/GXV610, GX/GXV620, GX/GXV670).
2. What are the applications for the new V-Twin models (both vertical and horizontal crankshaft models)? How are these applications different from the applications of the existing V-Twin models?
The all-new V-Twin models have applications similar to the models they replace. Therefore, the new engines, available in both horizontal and vertical shaft configurations, are well suited for commercial turf, utility vehicle, construction and rental equipment applications. Specifically, Honda's new V-Twin engines are designed for demanding, power-hungry, commercial applications such as commercial turf and landscape equipment (zero-turn radius mowers, lawn tractors, trenchers, stump grinders and chipper/shredders) and construction equipment (concrete saws, vibratory rollers, ride-on cement trowels, and generators). Additional applications include use in pressure washers and floor buffers.
The smaller overall packaging of the new V-Twin also allows for more versatility and a greater breadth of product applications.
3. Overall, how is the new V-Twin model design an improvement over the existing design?
The new V-Twin features an advanced style that looks different from other engines in its class. A number of new design elements contribute to the engine's enhanced performance:
- A hemispherical combustion chamber engine design is used on all new V-Twin models. This design offers a higher 9.3:1 compression ratio, higher power output and greater displacement in a more compact design.
- An integrated cylinder and cylinder head eliminates the need for a head gasket and bolts, resulting in a reduction in the number of components and increased reliability.
- Cooling efficiency is improved via the all-new smooth resin fan design with large air intake that leads to more efficient cooling and reduced noise. Noise is further reduced via the use of steel connecting rods and aluminum push rods.
- Fuel consumption is reduced to levels comparable to fuel injected competitor engines through the use of precise fuel metering through a twin barrel inner-vent carburetor, reduced internal friction and digital Capacitive Discharge Ignition (CDI) with variable ignition timing.
4. What key features make the new V-Twin design so technologically advanced?
The new V-Twin Engine Series features a higher compression ratio than most engines in its class. Its new compression ratio is 9.3:1, compared to the existing Honda V-Twin compression ratio of 8:3:1. Fuel efficiency improvement, emission performance and noise reduction are some of the most important advancements for this new product. Essentially, with the new V-Twin model, customers are receiving more power, better fuel economy, reduced emissions, and less noise - all in a smaller, more versatile envelope.
5. Are the new V-Twin models designed as original equipment only for commercial applications or can equipment owners purchase the engines individually as replacement engines for the equipment in question?
Consumers can purchase an engine individually, and it is always advisable to consult a local Honda Engine Distributor regarding the purchase. This ensures that the end-user selects the correct model for the specific application in question and that any additional necessary components, such as the muffler, are ordered.