Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

hi all,

i just got my first snow thrower! a toro Power Clear 221QR, i paid $300 for a slightly used one.

one thing is confusing me, is the toro r-tek engine that i have in my thrower a briggs & stratton? it came with a briggs manual to confuse the situation more.

here are my specs:

Specifications

Model #: 38583
Capacity/Minute Up to 1700 lbs
Throw Distance Up to 30’
Clearing Width 21”
Engine Toro R*Tek 2-Cycle
Displacement 141 cc... 5.5 HP
Starter Recoil
Fuel Capacity 1.1 Quarts
Ignition Electronic
Compression Release Standard
Governor Air-Vane
Auger System Power Curve System
Auger or Rotor Type Rubber Paddles (2)
Chute Control Quick Shoot w/ Zip deflector
Drive System Power Propel Self-Propel
Tires 7” x 1.5”
Folding handle Standard
Cut Depth - 1 Pass 12.5”
Weight w/ Recoil 74 lbs


After spending countless hours trying to research it i can't seem to find the correct answer. Some people say its made in china and an exact copy of a briggs, some people say it is a briggs and that toro started putting them in due to EPA regulations.

What is the honest answer?

cheers!

What is the honest answer?
Briggs bought the R tek engine several years ago from Toro.
Toro got it from Lawnboy 10 years previous too that.

As stated above - The R*Tek IS a briggs motor, but not designed by briggs.

Lawnboy designed it as the Duraforce. (this is good - Lawn Boy's entire history is based on designing 2 stroke engines for OPE and Marine use)

Toro bought Lawnboy.

Toro took the motor and renamed the piston-ported version of it (used in snowblowers) the R*Tek (stands for RELIABLE TECHNOLOGY).

Toro sold the engine design/rights to Briggs, who now manufactures it.

You'll also quickly find out that the ratings on your new snowblower are extremely conservative. The R*Tek makes an easy 7hp (or more) and that blower will throw more than 1700lbs/minute.