Subaru launches vertical shaft, overhead cam engine for lawnmowers

Dec. 20, 2010. — The new EA175V Engine from Subaru is the first in its extensive engine line suited for use with walk-behind lawnmowers. The company says it features an innovative and completely original design, with the engine being lightweight, yet rugged and powerful enough for demanding mower applications, and is also designed for use on a variety of other vertical-shaft engine applications.

Subaru’s EA175V is the first to bring chain-driven overhead cam (OHC) technology to the small, air-cooled, vertical shaft engine market. The company says this allow the EA175V to offer easier starts, quieter operation and more power than similar-class engines. OHC technology combined with a highly efficient hemispherical combustion chamber allow the intake and exhaust valves to be positioned to offer lower resistance for the air/fuel mixture flow, thus optimizing engine performance. This allows the engine the ability to utilize a high compression ratio, thus producing higher power and torque.

The EA175V is built with a low-tone muffler to reduce noise levels. Additionally, OHC engines have fewer moving parts, and as a result, produce less mechanical noise than competitive technologies. The combined features make the engine a full 2 dBA quieter in exhaust tone than other same-class engines.

Subaru says durable, high-quality materials and added features are included to extend engine life. Heavy-duty piston rings and a cast-iron cylinder liner reduce engine wear, while a patent-pending oil delivery system increases longevity. Cooling fins and air circulation have been engineered to optimize cooling capacity to effectively reduce heat and further enhance engine life.

For use with lawnmower applications, an aluminum alloy flywheel ensures smooth engine operation. The low-mount configuration combined with the aluminum alloy construction furthers the engine’s lightweight design. The flywheel also features a safety brake, which, when released, automatically stops the mower blade within three seconds. For all other equipment applications, a high-mass flywheel is standard.

A large-capacity pleated paper air cleaner is standard, and designed to keep small and large debris from entering the engine. A washable, oil foam air cleaner is optional, and suitable for use with other pieces of equipment such as pressure washers. To further enhance starting in cold weather, the engine is available with a primer bulb or auto choke. The EA175V meets current California and EPA 2012 exhaust and evaporative emissions standards, and is backed by Subaru’s 3-year limited warranty.