The Forestry Forum
General Forestry => Sawmills and Milling => Topic started by: Shawn on January 23, 2006, 09:44:06 AM
Using a bandmill, would it be better to purchase a diesel engine vs. a gas engine? A 10HP diesel = a 13-15HP gas. And the diesel are far cheaper.
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-ELECTRIC-START-DIESEL-10HP-10-HP-HEAVY-DUTY-ENGINE_W0QQitemZ7738299684QQcategoryZ29520QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
I asked the same question several months ago.... click on the link below and see what everyone had to say ;)
CLICK HERE (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?topic=15503.0)
I don´t know if diesel or gas makes the different.
On my sawmill there is a 18 hp Vanguad (B&S) V-twin gas engine. Most of the time I think the blade is the weakest part, not the engine. But when the kerf is more than 12" wide (or more) I think I could use 10 more Hp. Hope I can go for a 27 hp Kohler when the Vanguard is worn out. I like air cooled engines without turbo. Fast working temp. and no cooling down at idle before stoping the engine after hard work.
http://www.kohlerengines.com/onlinecatalog/engine_guide_results.jsp?view=true&qryStr2=KOHLER%20Command
You also have to take a look at the toque diagram.
The rated 18 Hp. is given at max. speed; 3600 rpm. An engine last much longer when run at lower speed, I´ve set mine at 3300 rpm. when it makes ~16 hp.
Swede
I may have missed it, but I didn't see where those engines were made. My guess is China. If so I be very skeptical of them saying nothing as for getting parts.
I would strongly advise you to avoid that engine or any other "clone" engines. A friend purchased one similar to use on an air compressor and it ran great for 10 hours, then the starter went out. After waiting 3 months for that part, the injector pump went, and he changed motors. The parts are high also. If you want true long life, try a larger gas engine at lower rpm's or a known small diesel like a Kubota.