The problem with forums is everybody has their own opinions and theirs is correct.
The best thing to do is go to a local dealer and see what they sell as they will be able to advise on your conditions and needs.
Im a briggs man and would only sell if the mower has a briggs but if the dealer only knows how to fix hondas then a Briggs would be no good.
Its like cars, whats best a Porsche or Ferrari? All personel opinions.
Thanx for all the great replies. Lot's of good info here.
As I said IMO Kawasaki and Honda are the engine to go with, and you are right it is a personal opinion. It's also my opinion that right now Kawasaki and Kohler own the market with mower engines.
Kawasaki and Honda only dabble with engines.
B&S produced 9.5 million engines in 2012.
They produce 70% of lawn and garden engines worldwide.
The "sprint" engine model 9/10 has now ended production due to not complying with emissions.
Since 1955 they have made approx 160million of that engine.
If everything was powered by the "Vanguard" range of engine then you probably wouldnt use anything else.
In 15 years of selling them I have done one warranty and that was due to engine being run in an enclosed area.
Downfall is it can be expensive so manufacturers go for a cheaper option which means quality is low.
Ric I always look forward to see what you right your always write with what you say
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Carscw, looking at your response I really don't know what to say so I'm not going to say anything. (Homophones)