Subaru introduces vertical-shaft OHC engines
Subaru introduced chain-driven overhead cam (OHC) technology to the small, air-cooled, vertical-shaft engine market with the unveiling of its EA Series at GIE+EXPO 2010. Both the EA175V (174 cc) and EA190V (189 cc) are designed to be lightweight, yet durable and rugged enough for a variety of lawn and garden equipment. The EA190V is best suited for pressure washers, walk-behind string trimmers, aerators and lawn vacs, while the EA175V is ideal for use with walk-behind mowers.
By incorporating OHC technology, the EA Series engines offer easier starts, quieter operation and more power than similar-class engines. OHC technology combines with a highly efficient hemispherical combustion chamber to optimize engine performance by allowing the intake and exhaust valves to be positioned to offer lower resistance for the air/fuel mixture flow. This allows the engines to effectively utilize a high compression ratio, thus producing higher power and torque.
The modern OHC design of the EA Series engines 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 pulling force by 30 to 40 percent. In conjunction with the optimized combustion chamber design, starts are fast and easy with no perceptible kickback — even in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius.
OHC engines also have fewer moving parts, and, as a result, produce less mechanical noise than competitive technologies. In addition, the EA Series engines feature a low-tone muffler to further reduce noise levels. This combination makes the engines a full 3 dBA quieter in exhaust tone than other same-class engines.
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. The EA Series offers both easy starts in cold weather and superior cooling to provide the ideal balance of features, and further position itself as an efficient and practical solution for multi-seasonal lawn and garden equipment. Both EA Series engines meet current California and EPA 2012 exhaust and evaporative emissions standards, and are backed by Subaru’s 3-year warranty.
For additional information, visit www.subarupower.com.