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

I thought that I would start a thread with information on the LCT engine. Since these engines starting showup in place of the Temcumseh Snow King it would be nice to have a reference thread. Here are some links with information:

http://www.lctusa.com/

http://www.j-thomas.com/Catalog/164_lct_engines.html

http://www.parsonsracingengines.com/page/lct%20racing%20engines

The Parsons Racing site also shows that some of the parts on the 208 cc engine are interchangable with Honda GX200.

There are two base versions for LCT: 208 cc and 414 cc
The 208 cc is the one used for snowblowers. It is also referred to as the StormForce. My experience with the engine is on a Poulan snowblower. I'll post more on how it works out later in the season (it's only snowed twice so far in Denver).

Sport

borat wrote:I have a 305cc on my snow thrower and it's a damned good engine. It's only got 30 hours on it so, it's still fairly fresh. It starts well, and runs strong although, it's not quite as smooth as either of the other two engines previously mentioned. That might have something to do with it being 33% larger. Regardless, it's been a very good engine so far. If it craps out, I'll most likely re-power with an LCT or Champion engine.

HTTPs://ouppes.com

Yo Snowmachine: I know what you mean by "purring" engines on the generators. Even the cheap little Champion I have is impressively smooth and quiet. However, in all fairness, those engines are rubber mounted and have comparatively huge mufflers. Another thing we have to consider, is that when an engine is mounted in a generator or pressure washer, we have no physical contact with them once they're running. On a snow thrower, the engine is solidly mounted and we have to grapple with it for sometimes hours. That might be why I perceive the other two engines to be smoother. In reality, they just might not be.

I was at Northern Tool looking at a Honda GX390 ($649) and an LCT414 ($399) today.  It sure looked like many of the parts were interchangeable but who knows how they compare inside.  I have to admit that if I was looking for a new engine I would consider the LCT.

You can tell that the Chinese engines are gaining acceptance just by the price increase. Can't say for sure about that LCT414, but it seems the prices for them are going up fairly fast.

I'm getting a new blower. One of my choices is the Poulan PR1330ES with the LCT 414cc motor. It's the only blower I can find with this engine. The next closest engine is a 357cc motor (B&S, I think). However, there's a 45" Craftsman/Toro/etc blower with a 420cc engine. Who makes that enigne?
Aside from the 420cc engine, which I can't find any HP or Torque ratings on, is the LCT414 the biggest blower enigne available?

The LCT 414cc is a 12 hp power engine.

The 420cc engine is marketed by MTD's Powermore brand and from what I understand is made by Zongshen in China.

http://www.powermore.ca/powermore/

Catt wrote:
Thanks, Catt. It would appear that Zongshen makes the 357cc engine as well.

SEARS has a Boxing Day special on their Craftsman snowblower, with an LCT Storm Force 208cc engine.  Electric start, 24 inch width.  A small machine, but okay for homeowner use, I guess.  Price here in Canada is $599, a $300 saving.  Does this sound like a good deal?  I was nervous about the Chinese-made LCT engines until I read the positive reviews posted here.

Does anyone have access to the LCT 414cc Storm Force engine mounted in a Husqvarna 1830 EXLT "Snow King" and an LCT 414cc MAXX GEN generator that can confirm if the mufflers are interchangeable? I'd take a 1 ft-lbs loss for a decent noise reduction.