Kawasaki KAI Single FJ180V-(E)M17-S 4.5 HP Engine
From lawn care to industrial labor, the FJ180 KAI dials up the power to meet a wide range of demands. Designed to help keep emissions low and productivity high, this forced-air-cooled 4-cycle Kawasaki engine features pressurized lubrication, an internally vented carburetor, dual element air cleaner, and a ball-bearing-supported crankshaft.
Each image of the engine represents the series itself and not the individual engine.
Features:
-
Engine performance, by the numbers: From power and torque numbers to engine features and more, the following is here to help communicate engine performance details and capabilities. Be sure to consider these specs to help ensure the engine you’re choosing is a match to your mowing needs.
-
Full Pressure Lubrication System: Equipped with a dedicated mechanical oil pump, this system ensures constant oil flow to the journal bearings and overhead valves. This is a critical feature for professional landscapers, as it allows the engine to be operated safely on steep slopes and banks without risking engine seizure.
-
Dual-Element Cylindrical Air Filtration: A high-capacity, 360-degree filtration system. It uses a foam pre-cleaner to capture large debris and a pleated cylindrical paper element to block microscopic dust. This heavy-duty setup significantly extends the time between services.
-
Cast-Iron Cylinder Liner: A rugged, wear-resistant iron sleeve integrated into the cylinder block. This industrial-grade liner maintains high compression over thousands of hours of use and is much more durable than standard "cool-bore" aluminum designs.
-
Ball Bearing Supported Crankshaft: To handle the heavy vibration and side-load of a commercial mower blade, the crankshaft is supported by premium ball bearings. This reduces internal friction, lowers operating temperatures, and ensures a smoother, quieter run.
-
Automatic Compression Release (ACR): A mechanical system that reduces the effort required to pull the starter cord by more than 40%. This ensures effortless, reliable "one-pull" starting, which reduces operator fatigue during long workdays.
-
Large-Volume Low-Tone Muffler with Heat Guard: Designed to meet strict noise ordinances, this muffler provides a deep, refined exhaust note. It is protected by a ventilated metal guard to prevent accidental burns during close-quarters operation.
-
Mechanical Governor System: Unlike pneumatic governors, this gear-driven mechanical system responds instantly to changes in engine load. When you hit a patch of thick, wet grass, the governor opens the throttle immediately to maintain consistent blade speed.
-
Internally Vented Carburetor: This smart design maintains a stable air-to-fuel ratio even as the air filter becomes restricted by dust. It prevents the engine from running too "rich," which saves fuel and prevents spark plug fouling.
-
Serviceable Recoil Assembly: The starter housing is designed with the professional in mind. It is easy to remove and service, allowing for quick rope or spring replacements in the field to minimize downtime.
-
Pulse Fuel Pump: A vacuum-driven pump that ensures a consistent, pressurized fuel supply to the carburetor. This allows for reliable performance regardless of the fuel level in the tank or the angle of the terrain.