Mountfield is a well-known brand in the lawn care industry, renowned for its high-quality lawnmowers that cater to a range of users, from homeowners to professional landscapers. One of the most critical components of any lawnmower is its engine, as it directly influences performance, durability, and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the types of engines used in Mountfield mowers, their working principles, and their suitability for various mowing applications.
Understanding Lawn Mower Engines
Lawnmower engines are typically small internal combustion engines that provide the necessary power to drive the cutting blades and propel the mower forward in self-propelled models. These engines can be categorized into two main types:
- Two-Stroke Engines – These engines operate on a simpler cycle, requiring a mixture of fuel and oil. They are generally lighter and provide higher power-to-weight ratios but are less fuel-efficient and produce more emissions.
- Four-Stroke Engines – The most common type in lawnmowers, four-stroke engines run on separate fuel and oil systems. They offer better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and smoother operation compared to two-stroke engines.
Mountfield primarily employs four-stroke engines in its mowers, ensuring better reliability and ease of use.
Types of Engines Used in Mountfield Mowers
Mountfield mowers use engines from various reputable manufacturers, including their own-brand engines and those from leading suppliers such as Briggs & Stratton, Honda, and STIGA. Below, we explore the specifics of these engines.
1. Mountfield ST Series Engines
Mountfield offers a range of in-house engines known as the ST Series, designed to provide high performance at a competitive price. Some key features of Mountfield ST engines include:
- ST120, ST140, and ST170 Models: These engines are commonly found in Mountfield’s petrol lawnmowers, providing power outputs ranging from 123cc to 166cc.
- OHV (Overhead Valve) Technology: Ensures efficient fuel combustion, better power delivery, and lower emissions.
- Easy-Start Mechanism: Many ST engines are equipped with an auto-choke system, reducing the effort required to start the mower.
Mountfield ST engines are widely used in entry-level and mid-range models, offering good reliability and cost-effectiveness.
2. Briggs & Stratton Engines
Briggs & Stratton is a globally recognized engine manufacturer known for its robust and efficient small engines. Many Mountfield lawnmowers, particularly high-end petrol models, are powered by Briggs & Stratton engines. Notable engine series include:
- 450E, 500E, 550E, and 675EXi Series: These engines range from 125cc to 163cc and are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and easy starting.
- ReadyStart Technology: Eliminates the need for priming or choking, making startup effortless.
- Dura-Bore Cast Iron Cylinder Liners: Provide increased durability and longevity.
Briggs & Stratton engines are commonly found in self-propelled and larger cutting-width Mountfield models, ensuring powerful performance.
3. Honda Engines
Mountfield also equips some of its premium lawnmowers with Honda engines, which are regarded for their efficiency and longevity. The most commonly used Honda engines include:
- Honda GCVx145 and GCVx170: These engines provide displacement ranges of 145cc to 170cc and are known for their quiet operation and fuel efficiency.
- Auto Choke System: Simplifies startup by adjusting automatically to different temperatures.
- OHC (Overhead Camshaft) Design: Reduces friction and enhances efficiency.
Honda-powered Mountfield mowers are ideal for professional use, where reliability and low emissions are critical.
4. STIGA Engines
STIGA, a European leader in garden equipment, supplies engines for select Mountfield models. STIGA engines feature:
- ST 120, ST 140, and ST 170 Engines: These four-stroke engines offer power ratings similar to the Mountfield ST series.
- Advanced OHV Design: Enhances efficiency and longevity.
- Easy Start System: Reduces pull-start resistance for user convenience.
STIGA engines are typically found in Mountfield’s mid-to-high-range mowers, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
Working Principles of Mountfield Mower Engines
To better understand how these engines function, let’s delve into the basic working principles of a four-stroke lawnmower engine:
1. Intake Stroke
The intake valve opens, allowing an air-fuel mixture to enter the combustion chamber as the piston moves downward.
2. Compression Stroke
The intake valve closes, and the piston moves upward, compressing the air-fuel mixture.
3. Power Stroke
The spark plug ignites the compressed fuel mixture, causing an explosion that forces the piston downward and generates power.
4. Exhaust Stroke
The exhaust valve opens, allowing burned gases to exit as the piston moves upward again.
This cycle repeats multiple times per second, enabling the engine to deliver continuous power to the mower.
Choosing the Right Mountfield Engine for Your Needs
When selecting a Mountfield mower, the engine type plays a crucial role in determining its suitability for different applications. Here’s a guide to choosing the right engine:
- For Small to Medium Gardens (Up to 500m²): A Mountfield ST120 or Briggs & Stratton 450E engine with a 39cm to 45cm cutting deck is ideal.
- For Medium to Large Gardens (500m² to 1500m²): A Briggs & Stratton 500E, STIGA ST140, or Honda GCVx145 engine with a 46cm to 53cm cutting deck is recommended.
- For Professional and Large-Scale Use (1500m²+): A Honda GCVx170 or Briggs & Stratton 675EXi engine in a self-propelled model with a large cutting deck provides maximum efficiency and durability.
Conclusion
Mountfield lawnmowers are equipped with a variety of high-performance engines from their own ST series, as well as trusted manufacturers like Briggs & Stratton, Honda, and STIGA. These engines ensure reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use, making Mountfield mowers a popular choice among homeowners and professionals alike. By understanding the differences between these engines and their applications, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right Mountfield mower for your lawn care needs.