Honda unveils all-new large GX and iGX Series of engines at World of Concrete
Honda GX390Honda introduced an all-new generation of its versatile and reliable GX and iGX Series of general-purpose engines at the 2010 World of Concrete show Feb. 2 in Las Vegas. The new-generation commercial-grade GX Series brings improvements in power, fuel efficiency, emissions performance and quiet operation to the engine line.
Featuring 4 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 demanding commercial, construction and rental 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 engines, iGX engines are also (OHV) horizontal-shaft engines, yet provide additional advanced 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:
Commercial concrete equipment
Commercial generators
Water pumps
Trenchers
Chippers/shredders
Air compressors
Stump grinders
Pressure washers
Aerial lifts and platforms
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, making them among the most powerful engines in each of their respective categories. 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 significant reduction in noise and vibration, which is vital to end users of both commercial and residential engine applications. Noise has been reduced up to 5 decibels, making the new GX one of the quietest engines available in its class. A new reed-style breather valve and a new muffler design also contribute to the engines’ quiet operation, while a new lightweight piston allows an optimized overbalance ratio for less operating vibration.
Although fuel efficiency is a key attribute of all Honda engines, fuel consumption in the new GX family of engines has been significantly improved for 2010. The new large GX engines increase fuel efficiency by 12 percent. 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 long-life multi-layer gradient density-type air filter extends the air cleaner maintenance interval by 50 percent. Premium features such as an electronically controlled governor, fully automatic choke and an automotive-style electric starter are standard on the iGX Series engines.
Potential new applications and attributes of this technology include:
pressure washers that automatically respond to the load when the user squeezes or releases the trigger handle;
water pumps that can be automatically activated by a remote switch based on water level;
generators that can automatically respond to load and adjust engine speed based on electrical draw;
drive-by-wire applications, including utility vehicles, scissor lifts, ride-on trowels and other remotely operated products.
For more information, visit www.honda.com.
