Problems With New Powerhorse Engines
by Tony OldhandUpdated April 25, 2017
The Liquid Combustion Technology Corporation, or LCT, is a large multinational manufacturer of small engines. Some of the applications include lawnmowers, snow throwers and garden tillers. The Powerhorse engine is a 6-horsepower, 208-cc horizontal shaft engine that is easily adapted to a variety of applications. Very little information is available on any problems with the engines, since most owners are happy with the performance of new engines. One little glitch, however, does become evident when the engine is adapted to motor sports.
Owner Reviews
One of the main distributors of this engine is Northern Tool Supply. It encourages owners of the engine to write feedback reviews. Owners can be considered an unbiased source of information, since they have nothing to gain or lose from writing a good or bad review. Out of a possible 5 stars, owners gave this engine 4.9 stars. Fifty out of 51 owners stated they would recommend this engine to a friend.
Manufacturer Warranty
According to LCT, all new engines come with a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. LCT states to hang on to your receipt. In case of problems return to the distributor for repair or replacement. Of course, if you run the engine out of oil or neglect to clean the air filter, the warranty will not cover owner neglect.
Oil Sensor Glitch
The engine has an oil sensor cut-off switch. When the oil level is too low, the sensor shuts of the engine. This is a safety feature built into the engine. If this engine is used on a go-kart, the g-forces of turning and going over bumps sloshes the oil in the crankcase. Go-kart owners report the sensor "thinks" the engine is low on oil, and shuts off the engine. Owners report they disconnect the oil sensor, so their engine keeps running. This procedure is risky, since if the engine does indeed run low on oil, it will self-destruct. If you do this, always check the oil level frequently, since the manufacturer's warranty will not cover owner-induced damage.
Troubleshooting Guide
Engine owners are given a troubleshooting guide by LCT engines. Some of the areas addressed are hard starting, poor idling, or lack of power. LCT offers some possible solutions for every problem. A worn spark plug is a very common problem with small engines. If you are having problems, inspect the spark plug first.
References
Writer Bio
Tony Oldhand has been technical writing since 1995. He has worked in the skilled trades and diversified into Human Services in 1998, working with the developmentally disabled. He is also heavily involved in auto restoration and in the do-it-yourself sector of craftsman trades. Oldhand has an associate degree in electronics and has studied management at the State University of New York.
