LAS VEGAS – Honda has introduced an all-new generation of its GX and iGX series of general purpose engines at the 2010 World of Concrete show in Las Vegas.
The new generation GX Series, Honda’s family of commercial grade engines, brings improvements in power, fuel efficiency, emissions performance and quiet operation to the engine line.
Featuring four all-new models, the large GX engine line combines increased power and versatility with greater fuel economy in the same envelope. The new GX240, GX270, GX340 and GX390 engine models are overhead valve (OHV) horizontal shaft engines that offer users durable power for a wide range of commercial and construction applications.
In addition to the new GX series, Honda is expanding its iGX series with an all-new iGX340 and iGX390 engine. The iGX series offers further enhancements to the GX series, incorporating an electronic self-tuning regulator (STR) governor. Similar to GX, iGX engines are also OHV horizontal shaft engines, yet provide additional technologies for more complex applications.
“Our new GX and iGX series of engines have been redesigned to provide more power and excellent fuel efficiency while reducing emissions and noise,” said Scott Conner, assistant vice president, Honda Engines. “The new GX and iGX bring an enhanced level of value and performance to our customers.”
Potential applications for the large GX series of engines include trenchers, chippers/shredders, air compressors, stump grinders and pressure washers.
The new large GX series of engines features a host of technologies and design elements that allow for improved power output. The new GX models produce 6 percent more power than previous models, according to the company. This additional power is achieved via an advanced combustion chamber design, the implementation of digital capacitive discharge ignition (CDI) with variable ignition timing, and an increased compression ratio.
Along with improved power, the new GX series of engines provides a reduction in noise and vibration. Noise has been reduced up to 5 decibels. A new reed-style breather valve and a new muffler design also contribute to the engine’s quiet operation, while a new light-weight piston allows an optimized overbalance ratio for less operating vibration.
The new large GX engines increase fuel efficiency by 12 percent, the company said.. In addition to increased fuel efficiency, the new GX engines will meet the 2011 EPA exhaust emission regulations without the use of a catalyst.
The all-new iGX engine series features an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) using Honda STR governor technology. A multi-layer gradient density-type air filter extends the air cleaner maintenance interval by 50 percent, the company said. Features such as an electronically controlled governor, fully automatic choke and an automotive style electric starter are standard on the iGX series engines.