Honda Engines introduced new additions to its GX Series of V-Twin general-purpose commercial engines. The four new models include iGX700/iGXV700 and iGX800/iGXV800.
The engines are equipped with fuel injection technology and an integrated electronic self-tuning regulator (STR) governor that delivers drive-by-wire remote control capability to manage key aspects of engine operation.
The engines are available in both horizontal and vertical shaft configurations and share the same footprint as existing models. The electronic governor allows the engine to regulate power when the load changes for the demanding commercial applications including concrete and construction equipment and commercial turf equipment, according to Honda.
The engines feature a hemispherical combustion chamber, an integrated cylinder and cylinder head, forged steel connecting rods and a 9.3:1 compression ratio, contributing to high efficiency as well as low noise and vibration. In addition, the integrated cylinder and head eliminate the need for a head gasket.
Honda V-Twin engines with EFI boast excellent fuel efficiency due, in part, to an electronic control system (ECS) that continually monitors and adjusts the engine’s air/fuel ratio according to variable operating conditions and engine load requirements, maintaining optimal combustion conditions, according to the company.
In addition to optimizing air/fuel ratios, the Honda V-Twin EFI-equipped engines offer improved ignition timing over the complete range of operating speeds and compensate for other factors to continually maintain optimal performance. Honda has improved starting performance in both hot and cold temperature conditions, such as when the equipment is started cold or temporarily stopped mid-job. The EFI system and high-pressure fuel pump allow for an ideal air/fuel mixture before it is emulsified and vaporized.
Honda broadened its existing iGX lineup by integrating the ECU architecture into new GX Series V-Twin models. Central to the iGX concept on the new V-Twin models is an integrated ECU with a self-tuning regulator (STR) governor system that allows the engine to communicate with the machine it is powering to achieve optimal performance by monitoring key parameters, controlling engine speed and diagnostics. The ECU enables drive-by-wire remote control operation of the engine, and speed of the models can be programmed and varied based on the load and speed requirements of equipment applications, according to Honda.
Additional iGX design features include a digital ignition system; long-life air filter; automotive-style starter motor; low- and high-pressure fuel pumps; engine temperature monitoring; and parameter-setting ECUs.
The new Honda V-Twin models feature a control panel with an LED indicator that informs the user about potential problems with diagnostic trouble codes. This indicator is designed either to stop the engine or alert the operator if any corrective actions need to be taken.
The new Honda V-Twin models feature high power output in a compact design comparable to the compact base frame footprints of other high-output Honda engines. The design compatibility minimizes changing time, making it easy for the user to install the new V-Twin models when older engines reach the end of their service lives. The design also allows manufacturers maximum flexibility with current tooling and frames.
The Honda iGX700/iGXV700 and iGX800/iGXV800 and V-Twin engines will be available nationally later in 2019. All models will carry a three-year, non-declining warranty.
