Two more models for Honda GC series - Gasoline Engines

Diesel Progress North American Edition, July, 2003 by Mike Osenga

Honda Engines has added two new higher horsepower models to its GC series of four-stroke gasoline engines. The 6 hp GC19O and the vertical shaft 6.5 hp GC Vi 90 engines are designed specifically for premium residential power equipment applications. The two new engines join Honda Engine's 4 hp GC135/GCV135 and the 5 hp GC160/GCV160 engines in the product range.

The horizontal shaft GCI90 and vertical shaft GCV190 became available through Honda Engine distributors nationally in April. Intended for use on applications as pressure washers and lawnmowers, both shaft configurations will also be supplied to other power equipment manufacturers on an OEM basis.

"GC engines are an increasingly Important segment of our model lineup and have been an important driver for our growth in North America," said Scott Conner, Honda Engines senior manager.

As with other overhead cam (OHC) engines in this series, a unique combination an internal timing belt and uniblock construction creates a light and more compact package, Honda said. This simple construction also minimizes the number of moving parts, making the engine more reliable, quieter, and easy to operate.

The increase of one horsepower over the GC160 and GCVl60, to 6.0 horsepower and 6.5 horsepower for the GC190 and GCV190 respectively, was achieved through an increase of displacement from 160 to 187 cc. This also results in a 0.5 lb.ft. torque increase for both engines, with the GC190 delivering 8.9 lb.ft., and the GCVI90 delivering 8.1 lb.ft.

To maintain reliability with the higher output, internal components have been strengthened with a stronger piston pin, larger connecting rod, larger rod journal and redesigned oil control ring.

A horizontal cross-flow intake port smoothes the flow of fuel into the combustion chamber, and optimizes startability, Honda said, while a compact combustion chamber, overhead cam configuration reduces fuel and oil consumption.

Honda's auto return choke system (ARCS), available on fixed-throttle GCV configurations, is designed to not over-choke the engine, which Honda said also enhances the ease of starting. The speed with which the choke returns automatically varies with ambient temperature.

The new GC190 and GCV190 engines will be produced primarily at Honda Power Equipment Mfg., Inc. in Swepsonville, N.C., and meet or exceed all 2006 CARB and EPA emission requirements, Honda said.

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