When looking to buy a new loader you will see that the engines vary between types and brands of loaders. Just like loaders come in lots of different sizes and designs, so do the engines that power them. Engines can vary in size, fuel type, number of cylinders, and ignition type. To find the right loader for you, you must know the different types of engines that go in them. Here’s a look at the most common types of engines that you will see in loaders.
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Internal vs External Combustion Engines
While engines vary in size, power, and function, they all fall into two main types–internal and external combustion engines.
Internal
In an internal combustion engine, the combustion of fuel is contained within the engine. There are many subcategories of internal combustion engines including gas, diesel, and petrol. An internal combustion engine is what you will find in your loader, unless you have an electric loader.
External
An external combustion engine has the combustion of fuel take place outside of the engine. These types of engines are most often found in machines that rely on steam, such as steam engines on trains and power plants.
Diesel vs Gas vs Electric Engines
Loaders have three main types of engines that are used depending on the type of fuel being used. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it will depend on how you are planning on using your loader to determine which is best for you.
Diesel
Diesel is the most common type of engine for loaders. There are several advantages to having a diesel engine in your loader including a longer life expectancy, better fuel efficiency, and better torque and power. The major downsides to diesel engines are their negative environmental footprint and the time it takes for the engine to warm up each use.
Gas
Not as common as diesel engines but still useful are gas engines. Gas engines typically perform better in colder climates and produce fewer emissions than their diesel counterparts. There are downsides to gas engines as well including lower torque and lower fuel mileage.
Electric
New to the heavy equipment world are electric engines. These engines come with several advantages. These advantages include reduced noise, lower operating costs, and a lessened environmental footprint. Downsides must also be considered including electric engines’ limited availability, slower speeds, and lack of knowledge from mechanics.
Diesel engines are the most common type found in loaders.
Common Brands of Loader Engines
- These engines are commonly found in ASV, Bobcat, New Holland, and Gehl loaders.
- Tier 4 Bobcat loaders typically contain the Doosan D24 engine.
- Both Bobcat and Gehl utilize this engine.
- OEM Isuzu engines can be found in Bobcat, Mustang, and John Deere loaders.
- This engine can be found in the Bobcat 4G32.
- These engines can be found in Bobcat, CAT, ASV, SCAT TRAK, and many other types of loaders.
- New Holland and several other OEMs use these engines.
- Supplied by the OEM these engines work with Bobcat, Case, and many more.
The Right Engine Makes All the Difference
The type of engine in your loader can greatly impact how you can use it. Most loaders can only use a specific type of engine or are very limited in what can be used. Make sure to check what type of engine your loader uses before buying parts for it or buying a completely new one. If you need help finding or ordering the correct engine parts for your loader, contact the LPS customer support team today!
