Kohler introduces. . . Electronic Fuel Injected Command PRO 26 Hp First to market: Walker's top-selling commercial Model T offers the Command PRO 26 hp EFI (shown at left) as an option.

Just as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems quickly evolved from being cutting-edge technology to standard equipment in automobiles, Kohler's new overhead valve Command PRO ^TM 26 horsepower engine with a factory-installed EFI system promises to be the benchmark that all small engine manufacturers attempt to replicate.

"Since the late '80s, people have come to rely on the convenience and reliability of EFI systems in their automobiles," said Cameron Litt, Product Manager - Kohler Engines. "One could say that consumers have benefited greatly because an EFI system is easy to use, fuel efficient and almost never fails - simply turn the key and the engine starts, no matter what the temperature."

With those user benefits in mind, as well as Kohler's proactive approach to protecting the environment with lower exhaust emissions, the company teamed up with Robert Bosch Corp., Farmington Hills, Mich., to develop an EFI system specifically designed for air-cooled, gasoline engines in the lower horsepower ranges. Kohler's EFI system offers several key advantages to users over standard carbureted engine systems:

• increased horsepower by 10 to 15 percent,
• improved fuel efficiency by 15 to 20 percent,
• excellent starting at all temperatures, and
• quicker throttle response.

Additionally, Kohler's EFI system directly protects the environment by lowering engine emissions through its efficient delivery of fuel. The use of an EFI system on Kohler's Command PRO 26 is a revolutionary breakthrough, creating a superior new class of engine with a more compact size and lighter weight than liquid-cooled diesels. They are also quieter than current diesel models.

Walker Manufacturing Company - like Kohler Engines - has earned the reputation as being an innovative manufacturer. From its Fort Collins, Colo., location, Walker produces multiple lines of commercial mowers. Based in large part from its success of selecting Kohler's revolutionary OHC 16 hp engine to power its Model MC commercial mower, Walker was eager to test Kohler's Command 26 PRO EFI engine in its equipment, anticipating similar favorable results.

Walker now offers the Command PRO 26 hp EFI engine as an option in its top-selling commercial cutter, the Model T, touted as one of the industry's leading machines for the mowing maintenance professional.

"The Model T accounts for almost 50 percent of our overall production," said Dean Walker,COLADES Design Engineer. "Our machine testing with Kohler's EFI engine in Colorado indicated fuel savings up to 30 percent over the existing engine. Once we saw these fuel savings numbers, that immediately piqued our interest because that's real-world payback that makes the EFI package more appealing."

Kohler customizes each EFI system to meet the required specifications of the OEM's unique application - whether it's a commercial cutter, consumer lawn and garden tractor, generator set or utility vehicle.

As an extension of the EFI option, Kohler offers its customers a user-friendly system which will give them complete vehicle management. The EFI system's electronic control unit can totally monitor the equipment's functions, including dash displays (engine temperature, speed, hours); analog/digital inputs (vehicle incline sensor, safety interlocks, vehicle and/or blade speed); diagnostics (air cleaner status, oil change intervals, operator safety warnings); and electronic governor/throttle controls (ground speed control, cut height control).

On-board diagnostic technology constantly monitors fuel system performance, providing an operator alert when a malfunction is detected. Using only the key switch and fault indicator light, the problem component is easily identified.

This electronic reliability and rapid diagnostic technology, along with the engine's greater fuel efficiency and horsepower, result in minimum expense and maximum equipment up-time for the end user.