Kohler verses Honda... what's the concensus at FF?

[jpgreen]

I've had very good luck with Honda on various types of equipment.  I was planning on ordering my ATS-8 with the 24hp.  I noticed a lot of people opting for the Kohler 27.

I see of course there is more power there, but at what point does fuel economy, and diminishing returns come into play.

Some of my thoughts on the Honda are weight, fuel economy, and dependablity- and 24hp is no whimp for sure.

I've only owned one Kohler over the years, and it was an 18hp.  Gave me some problems, but I know there are differences between years and models obviously.

And what about parts cost.  Honda's exspeeeeeeensive.

Sure would like to hear some feedback on this.  Keep it clean, orderly, and no fighting...;D

[Minnesota_boy]

Some engines have trouble in cold weather, hard starting or freezing up.  Others do real well in the cold, but get vapor lock if it gets too warm.  Some are pretty good at both, then the company makes a change and parts become a problem.  Each engine has its advantages and disadvantages.  Ask for some real specific advice and see what people can tell you.

[Ga_Boy]

Speaking specifically in terms of use on a mill.

Go with the Kohler, the 27 HP is a commercial grade engine. It is designed for long hard use.  The air fileter is the best out there, parts are easy to find.  You also get the extra HP which is always nice to have.

[D._Frederick]

Isn't the 27hp Kohler fuel injected?  No engine freezing?

I have one Honda engine, it cost me about $100 for an ignition module. B & S have a life time warranty on the ignition of the Vanguard engines.

[jpgreen]

What specific models does Peterson offer in the 24 Honda, and  25, and 27 Kohler?

[Part_Timer]

I have the 25hp kohler on my ATS and like it a lot.  It runs good in cold and warm weather so far.  I haven't run it below zero yet but ran it at 97 and had no problems.

The biggest reason for my getting the Kohler is that I have local service.

[jpgreen]

What model is your 25 PT?

[Captain]

JP, any Peterson model is available with all engines up to the 27hp Kohler at this time.  My advice is on an 8" mill, don't opt for less than a 24 Honda.  If you mill a lot in temperatures between 45 and 32 degrees, get the Kohler as it is much better for carb icing.  The Kohler warranty is also double the length of the Honda.  You'll also pay far less for parts and can usually find easier service with the Kohler engines than Honda, at least in my area.

Stay tuned, the 31hp Kohler is a few months away.  Also, the 27hp Kohler is NOT fuel injected, the 28hp is.

Captain

[Part_Timer]

JP

I have the 8" ATS.   The 25hp seems to have plenty of HP for the reg blades.

Tom

[Corley5]

I've got the 24hp Honda on my firewood processor and it's got good power.  I have noticed what may be carb icing though.  On days like today when it's around or a bit above freezing it'll start surging, puffing black smoke etc.  Idle it down for a bit and go back to work and it's fine and may not do it again the rest of the day or it might.  I still like it though ;D

[highpockets]

I've got a 20 h.p. Honda that I am about ready to work on with a 16 lb hammer.