Don't Replace: Repower
Admit it. There are some pieces of equipment in your fleet that you just LIKE. It may be that old Toro Greensmaster that's served you faithfully for years, or the Toro Sand Pro that everyone calls Ol' Sandy. Greens equipment hasn't changed much over the years - whether it's mowers, rakes, or sand groomers, they were good to go when they started, and they still are. The only thing that HAS changed is the engine.
Today's engines are quieter, more fuel efficient and far kinder to our environment. That environment part is important. In some states, fuel emissions are a growing concern - so much so that many have instituted regulations for the amount of emissions that can be sent into the air. Others have set up incentive programs that encourage industry to replace diesel and gas-powered equipment with new, lower-emission equipment. So when Ol' Sandy starts coughing and sputtering when you start her up first thing in the morning, you may be tempted to replace the old girl with something sharp, trim and clean-burning, even though the price tag is staggering.
Don't replace your engine - repower it.
There is another way, though - a way that lets you keep your old faithfuls and still have a more powerful, cleaner and quieter machine, with a price tag that can be as much as 90% less expensive. That option is to repower rather than replace.
Repower, according to one government source, means to replace an old engine with a new engine, a used engine, a remanufactured engine, or electric motors, drives, or fuel cells. It only makes sense - after all, why throw the baby out with the bathwater? Ol' Sandy's engine may be wearing out, but the rest of her is still going strong. Why junk the old girl when you can give her a new motor and have her running good as new?
A Kohler repower kit includes everything you need to get your dependable Toro equipment working better than new. Depending on where you get the kit, you can replace the original 14 hp motor with an 18 hp motor that works harder, quieter, cleaner and for about 20% the cost of buying new.
On top of that, you'll get a full two year warranty on your new engine. And if your state has an Emission Reduction program, you may actually be able to be reimbursed for all or part of the cost of repowering your equipment with a cleaner engine. Check your state's web site for local information, but in most states around the U.S., if the new engine significantly reduces the NOX emissions, you may qualify for grant money to repower with a new Kohler engine.
A Kohler Engine is an original Toro part.
Repower engines from Kohler are specially designed to replace the OEM engine that your machine came with. In addition to the motor, you'll get all the fittings, bolts and Toro parts you need to fit the new engine into your Toro machine.
So if your old, dependable sand groomer, rake, lawnmower, tractor or utility vehicles are becoming less and less dependable, take a serious look at the option of replacing the old, tired engine with a spanking new repowered kohler engines. You won't be sorry.
About the Author
Read about lip sores and lip care at the Lip Problems website.
Small Engine Buying Tips
Golf course managers are responsible for replacing parts in their course mowers, golf carts, trucksters when they begin to or completely go out. With proper maintenance, these kinds of replacements happen fairly infrequently. The engine may seem like one of the most difficult parts to replace because of the many details and factors that make up a good engine. It does not have to be difficult however.
When looking for a new or rebuilt small engine, there are several major factors to consider before making a purchase. Small engines vary depending on brand, size, and purpose of use but basic quality factors should be considered standard. Keep the following in mind as you look for a replacement small engine.
Power and Durability
When looking at various brands of small engines or refurbished engines, gauge and compare the power levels. You want to make sure that your replacement engine provides equal or better power than your existing engine. Have your current engine make and model with you and ask your salesperson or online retailer how it compares to the one you are looking to purchase.
It should also be a durable piece of machinery. Ask someone knowledgeable about the life expectancy of various small engine models or rebuilt engines. Additionally make sure that it can withstand heavy use in various weather and terrain conditions.
Environmental Impact
It is good to understanding how environmentally friendly the new or rebuilt engine is. Brands like Kohler and Briggs & Stratton have a reputation for building small engines that are less harsh on the environment because they give off less pollutants into the air and ground. They also tend to be more fuel efficient.
Get a Warranty
Always look for a good warranty on any small engine. While new engines nearly always come with a 1-2 year warranty, rebuilt engines do not. Always ask before purchasing to see what sort of warranty you can be guaranteed. A warranty will help in the event that your rebuilt engine has an existing problem when it arrives or it ends up being the wrong model or fit for your needs.
Ask Questions
Buying a new or replacement small engine is an infrequent experience. Don't feel that you need to know everything about them in order to make a good decision. If you are unsure about what to buy, look first at brands that you know have a good reputation for creating robust, sturdy equipment that you can trust. Ask people you know what engine is in their carts, mower or other small engine equipped vehicle. Most will tell you of a small handful of well-known, respected brand names that you can then take to your retailer or online sales person to see about matching up a brand with the engine or rebuild kit you need.
When purchasing new small engines or when buying rebuilt small engines, take the time to assess some of these key factors before making a purchasing decision. This way you will increase your chances of getting the best, most reliable piece of machinery possible.
~Ben Anton, 2008
About the Author
For tips on parakeet breeding and parakeet food, visit the Talking Parakeet website.
