Show me a quiet gas motor above 10 hp that runs at rated power for extended time periods.
Gas has it's place.
I've have two, and they both start without question even at zero F after sitting out. ;-)
The Bolens is a 23 HP, so most in line with the post topic. It's from the 80's , with the Kohler horizontal opposed side valve. Not particularly fuel efficient, but I can't tell. When the tank is low, It gets filled.
I can't say the exhaust note is quiet. I've been wanting to refit an automotive muffler., but just haven't seen the need.
As to power, There is much to draw comparisons to the
B7200 . I feel the Bolens has the edge. (by the ratio of 23 to 18 ;-)
Traction is a bigger issue. Weight and tire size win every time.
The Fordson is also gas. 1950 m.y. so she is pushing 70 years. ( though about the same HP rating, I think the horses were bigger in the '50's;-)
Starts right up in all weather, delivers power to the wheels or the pto or the flat belt without a wimper. Sits for months unattended (and I never have used stabil etc)
She owes me nothing. But I expect a good day pushing snow when needed.
The Diesel tractors? I always use fuel conditioner, and need heat to get them going in winter. They are a bit smelly in operation and anywhere there is spilt fuel.
The bleeding and water in fuel issue is a royal pain in the rear. (dry gas clears all ills with the gas tractors when the situation presents)
It does seem a day's work showes on the fuel level indicator a lot less than the same day with the gassers.
Oh, did I mention the diesels were smelly and the used engine oil stains black .
I would consider a good gas tractor as long as it wasn't made cheaply for any task were fuel economy was not the driving factor.
