InfraStructures - November 2010 - Subaru Introduces Vertical Shaft OHC Engine for the Lawn and Garden Market

Subaru Introduces Vertical Shaft OHC Engine
for the Lawn and Garden Market

Featuring a vertical shaft configuration, Subaru’s new EA190V Engine is the first to offer chain-driven overhead cam (OHC) technology to the small, air-cooled, vertical shaft engine market. The 189 cm3 displacement engine is designed to be lightweight, yet durable and rugged enough for a variety of lawn and garden equipment including pressure washers, walk-behind string trimmers, aerators and lawn vacs.

By incorporating industry-leading OHC technology, the EA190V offers easier starts, quieter operation and more power than same-class competitive engines. A highly efficient hemispherical combustion chamber combines with OHC technology to optimize engine performance by allowing the intake and exhaust valves to be positioned to offer lower resistance for the air/fuel mixture flow. The EA190V engine effectively utilizes a high compression ratio, thus producing higher power and torque.

OHC engines have fewer moving parts, and, as a result, produce less mechanical noise than competitive technologies. Additionally, the EA190V features a low-tone muffler to further reduce noise levels. This combination makes the engine a full 3 dBA quieter in exhaust tone than other same-class engines.

The EA190V’s modern OHC design enhances starting ease when compared with older overhead valve (OHV) engine designs. A larger recoil reel offers the operator greater pulling leverage and an automatic decompression system reduces the required recoil pulling force by 30-40%. In conjunction with the optimized combustion chamber design, starts are fast and easy – even in temperatures as low as -10°C – with no perceptible kickback.

Engine failure is primarily caused by excessive heat. Both the cooling fins and air circulation have been specially engineered on the EA190V to optimize cooling capacity and prolong engine life. The combined offering of easy starts in cold weather and superior cooling provides the ideal balance of features and further position this engine as an efficient and practical solution for multi-seasonal lawn and garden equipment.

Source: Robin America, Inc.