Small Engine Spotlight: Honda GX160 QX2

Small Engine Spotlight: Honda GX160 QX2

Honda GX160 QX2

A Compact Engine That Delivers Big Results

To kick off our Small Engine Spotlight series, we’re highlighting our most popular powerhouse: the compact yet robust Honda GX160 QX2. This isn’t just any old engine—it’s the heart of hundreds of hardworking machines across a seemingly endless number of industries. Trusted by construction professionals, farmers, landscaping experts, contractors, equipment rental companies and DIYers alike, the 163cc QX2 is a reliable choice that delivers exceptional performance.

 

Engine Specs

Don’t let the modest size fool you – Honda’s line of GX160 engines pack a punch. Let’s dive into the need-to-know specifications when determining if the QX2 is the right replacement for you:

  • Engine Type: 4-Stroke | Single Cylinder | Overhead Valve | Horizontal Shaft
  • Horsepower: 4.8 HP @ 3600 RPM
  • Displacement: 163cc
  • Torque: 7.6 lb-ft @ 2500 RPM
  • Crankshaft: ¾” x 2-27/64” Straight Shaft | 3/16” Keyway | 5/16”-24 End Tapped Size
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.3 qt
  • Oil Capacity: 0.61 qt
  • Bore x Stroke: 68mm x 45mm
  • Compression Ratio: 9.0 : 1


Key Features

Quality and performance are standard when it comes to Honda GX Series engines. The GX160 QX2 offers a combination of features that make it a trusted power source across a multitude of industries. Here's what sets it apart:

  • Cast Iron Cylinder Sleeve: Provides increased durability and extends the life of the engine
  • Oil Alert System: Prevents engine seizure due to low oil level
  • Aluminum Push Rods: Reduce valve clearance and allow for quieter operation
  • Precision Engineered Components: Reduced piston weight, balanced crankshaft and ball bearing support provide lower vibration and greater stability
  • OHV Design: Overhead valve design increases efficiency and offers optimal power transfer
  • Heavy Duty Starter: Recoil starter features an ergonomic grip for easy, reliable starting, even after longer periods of non-use.
  • Low Emissions: Meets current environmental standards in 49 states without sacrificing performance


Real-World Applications

One of the GX160 QX2’s biggest strengths is its versatility. It’s not just built to provide reliable performance—it’s designed to fit seamlessly into a wide range of equipment across a plethora of industries. Here’s where you’ll commonly find it:

Construction & Contractor Equipment

  • Plate Compactors
  • Concrete Saws
  • Tampers
  • Cement Mixers
  • Power Trowels
  • Pressure Washers

Agricultural & Landscaping Equipment

  • Tillers
  • Dethatchers
  • Garden Sprayers
  • Edgers
  • Log Splitters
  • Pumps

Power & Utility Equipment

  • Portable Generators
  • Air Compressors

Marine Equipment

  • Diving Compressors


Trusted by the Rental Industry

The GX160 QX2 is a top choice for power equipment rental businesses; its durable construction and high-quality components require minimal maintenance and can withstand harsh treatment from extensive use—day in and day out.


Why Choose the GX160 QX2?

Professionals choose the GX160 QX2 not just for its specs, but because it delivers reliable power when it counts. It’s lightweight, fuel-efficient, and starts easily—these are all qualities that matter when you're on a tight schedule or working in extreme conditions.

Whether you're running a small fleet of pressure washers or outfitting heavy-duty construction equipment, this engine offers low operating costs, consistent performance, minimal downtime, easy maintenance and, best of all, peace of mind.


Finding the Correct Replacement Engine

It’s important to keep in mind, the GX160 QX2 is not a universal-fit engine. While it’s a top seller that is used on countless types of equipment, that definitely doesn’t mean it fits everything. At Equipatron, we have a few other GX160 engine models that have different specifications that may make them the correct replacement choice for a particular piece of equipment.

The best possible way to determine which replacement engine is right for you is by referencing your current engine’s unique identifying numbers. On a Honda, you’ll need to find the model number, the type code and, most importantly, the serial number that is stamped into the engine. Check out our guide on how to find this information. > Need some additional help? That’s what our experienced support team is here for! Give us a call or send a message and we’ll help you determine what engine will work for your unique application.


Final Thoughts

Next time you drive by a construction site or pass a rental yard, chances are you’ll find some equipment powered by a Honda GX engine. There’s a reason businesses trust this engine series. The GX160-QX2 provides reliable, cost effective, fuel efficient power to the equipment that businesses and DIYers use day in and day out.


Check out our GX160 QX2 product page for additional information and customer reviews.


Think you might need a different GX160 engine? Here’s some other models we offer. >


If you’re looking for replacement parts or maintenance products like oil and fuel treatment, check out this convenient tune-up kit that works for GX160 and GX200 engines. >


Thanks for reading and see you in the next Small Engine Spotlight!